McMahon growing into his role
Brent Diamond | February 8, 2009
RICHMOND'S Jordan McMahon described his first season at the Tigers as like a bad-hair day.
The former Western Bulldog lost a players' raffle, organised by teammate Nathan Brown, that he believes led to him losing not only his beloved locks but also consistency on the field.
"It was during the season, I lost the raffle … it just so happens that my number got pulled out the week it was the head shave … I was a little bit inconsistent at times," McMahon said.
That was followed by a messy break-up with former girlfriend Rebecca McLure — who claimed in court he dumped her and their then one-year-old daughter Lila and never returned.
McMahon, who remains in constant contact with his daughter, was frustrated that his personal life was dragged through the courts and the media.
"Being a footballer, you're in the limelight and a lot of personal things get brought up when they probably shouldn't but I guess it's part of the game," he said.
As his locks and trademark moustache begin to grow back, the tenacious 25-year-old is adamant he can prove himself at Tigerland.
"You've got to show the other supporters why you got picked," he said.
"I've never had much of a tank but I'm starting to come along with endurance and the running has definitely improved.
"But I think everyone's feeling fresh right now and I can't wait to get into it. There's only so much swimming, running, bike and boxing that you want to be doing."
He said training with Ben Cousins had been a motivating factor in his training regime.
"You just have to have a look at his physique at the moment and he looks like he's flying still," he said.
"I think he'll be amazing, especially for blokes like Nathan Foley, because he'll take a bit of pressure off and he'll teach you a few things."
The slim-framed dashing on-baller said he became "stale" at the Bulldogs and sought a trade at the end of the 2007 season after seven years and 114 games at the kennel.
He said 2009 would be a make-or-break year for his career.
"It (going to another club) was more of an opportunity to take my football to a different level," he said.
"I felt stale, too, at the Bulldogs … it was probably a pretty good opportunity to move."
Despite playing all 22 matches last season for Richmond, McMahon still believes he has not earned the respect of the entire playing group and supporters.
"Last year was my first year at a new club and you sort of have to try and earn a bit of respect and repay the favour of bringing me to the club," he said.
"I think consistency will be the key for me this season."
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