After achieving Super Bowl glory, Australian punter Michael Dickson returned home with a special craving. Following the Seattle Seahawks” victory over the New England Patriots earlier this month, Dickson expressed his desire for a traditional Australian meal. He stated, “I can”t wait to get home, get some chips with some chicken salt – I”m craving that. And a parmi. That”d be nice.”
On Tuesday, Dickson satisfied his appetite at Sydney”s Sporting Globe, enjoying a meal and reflecting on his performance in the NFL”s championship game. Widely recognized as one of the league”s elite punters, he showcased his skills with precise kicks that significantly hindered the Patriots” offense. His efforts were pivotal in sealing the Seahawks” victory, further justifying the $25 million contract extension he signed last year. Alongside this financial achievement, he earned the coveted Super Bowl ring.
During his visit, Dickson expressed immense pride in representing Australia. “I”m super proud. I get to wear the Australian flag on my helmet, and I got so much support from every Australian when I was over there,” he remarked. He noted the overwhelming support he felt leading up to the game, describing it as a “special feeling.” He added, “To win the game and do Australia proud… it genuinely did mean a lot to me.”
As a punter, Dickson acknowledged that opportunities to impact the game are limited, making his contributions in the Super Bowl particularly rewarding. “If you go out there and you affect the game in the way I was able to in the Super Bowl… that”s the best feeling,” he commented.
Having transitioned from Aussie Rules football to American football at age 19, Dickson believes his background provides him with a unique advantage over his American counterparts. “Being an Aussie really helps when you have a short field to work with, because you can hit different types of punts,” he explained. “You kind of know your way around the ball a bit more than maybe some Americans do, just because at a local field, you”ll practice hitting bananas and snap kicks and trick goals. That”s really where you get the benefit as an Aussie.”
Looking ahead, Dickson expressed excitement at the possibility of the Seahawks playing an NFL game in Australia, similar to the upcoming matchup between the LA Rams and San Francisco 49ers. “That would be such a full circle moment for me and it would mean the world to me,” he said, envisioning a dream scenario where he could play in front of his home crowd.
