NEWLY-CROWNED Judd Cup winner Mojwok Akoch is determined to achieve his next football goal - a senior debut - next season.
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The South Warrnambool teenager took out the Hampden league under 18.5 best and fairest on Saturday after a dominant season for the ladder-leading Roosters.
LIVE COVERAGE: Hampden league best and fairest counts
Akoch, who polled 17 votes to claim the trophy, edged out Koroit's Curran O'Donnell (14) and Warrnambool's Ethan Boyd (12).
The Emmanuel College year 12 student plans to study architechture in Melbourne next year.
But regular trips down the highway are on the agenda.
"I still want to travel down and play for South," Akoch said.
"I think you always want to play at the highest level you can, whatever that can be."
Akoch, who was born in Australia to Sudanese parents, said he was introduced to football via long-time friend Archie Stevens.
"I played squad basketball with Archie and his dad Sam was the coach," he said.
"I was good mates with Archie and Sam was coaching the under 12 footy team at the time and asked me to come across to train and I have been there ever since."
Akoch, who prides himself on his sharp skills and on-field leadership, said it was disappointing COVID-19 restrictions forced the under 18.5 season to be abanonded before finals.
But the teenager said he was just grateful to play.
"I thought as a team it was an enjoyable season and as a team we were lucky enough to finish on top," he said.
"I just enjoyed playing with the boys.
"I was just happy to be able to play after not being able to play last year (due to COVID) and I've missed a couple of years with injury.
"I was just happy to get through a full season and lucky enough to bring home this (trophy). I wasn't expecting it."
Akoch, who thanked mentors Sam Stevens and Tait Niddrie for their help, credited his teammates for bringing the best out of him.
"Going to kick with my mates and getting better through them has been pretty big for me," he said.
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