Jesse Rigby said making the short trip north and signing for Moreton Bay United was a “pretty easy decision”.
Though still only 23, Jesse brings a wealth of experience from his time at the QAS, Western Pride and his last two seasons with Brisbane City.
The defensive midfielder played in grand finals for QAS and Western Pride. In fact, he captained Pride in 2017 when they beat Jets 2-1, with a last-minute winner.
“Moreton Bay’s a good club and Royce (Brownlie) is a very good coach,” said Jesse, “I’m really excited about next season.
“From the outside looking in, Moreton Bay has always been a hard team to play against, they’re always up for the game.
“On and off the field the team really seems to gel together. They’re a good bunch, from what I know. I know Declan (Smith), Rhys (Gwyn-Jones) … a lot of them.
“That grand final (2017) was a big event for me and the club (Western Pride). I thought it was also a good game.”
Jets’ coach Royce Brownlie was delighted to get Jesse’s signature on a contract for 2021 describing him as an “allround” player.
“For someone who is still relatively young in football terms, Jesse brings us leadership experience,” said Royce.
“He can find passes, he can grind and grit when needed, he can score goals when needed. He brings that allround type of player to us.”
Jesse, originally from central Queensland, has played in midfield throughout his career, but for one year in defence and has been captain at his last two clubs.
“I like to think I’ll bring hard work, give 100 per cent for this team,” he said.
“I like the look of the squad, it’s young but they’ve all got a bit of experience.”
Jesse said he has also “learned a lot from last season" when Brisbane City's late dip in form saw them relegated from the NPL Qld to the second tier FQPL.
“It’s a very sad thing (relegation) for Brisbane City ... and it was for me too, but in sport you have to take those things on the chin,” he said.
“I’ve seen both sides of the game now, winning a grand final ... and being in a relegated team. It’s a big difference and I don’t want to be back there.”