Jarrod Berry honors late mother after Lions upset Geelong in finals

Jarrod Berry, a midfielder for the Brisbane Lions, expressed deep emotions while reflecting on his late mother, Jedda, after his team's thrilling 10-point victory over Geelong in the preliminary final at the MCG. This win allowed the Lions to advance to the grand final, marking their second consecutive appearance after a narrow loss to Collingwood the previous year. Berry, who had struggled in the last grand final, emphasized the significance of this opportunity and the motivation it provided him throughout the season. The Lions demonstrated remarkable resilience, overcoming a 25-point deficit in the third quarter to secure their place in the grand final against Sydney on September 28. Coach Chris Fagan praised the team's determination, especially considering their challenging start to the season, where they had only four wins, six losses, and a draw at the halfway mark. Fagan noted that the team's journey had been unexpected, and their current position in the grand final was a testament to their hard work and perseverance. Berry's emotional tribute to his mother highlighted the lessons of resilience she instilled in him, which he carried into his football career. He acknowledged that while football is a significant part of his life, it is not everything, and he aims to repay his teammates with his effort on grand final day. The Lions, finishing fifth on the ladder, have a chance to make history by winning the premiership from outside the top four, a feat achieved by only one other team since the current finals system was introduced. As the grand final approaches, the Lions are focused on capitalizing on their momentum and the lessons learned throughout the season. Berry's personal journey, intertwined with the team's success, serves as a reminder of the emotional stakes involved in professional sports, particularly in honoring loved ones while striving for greatness.