NORTH Melbourne forward Jy Simpkin acknowledges he was "very lucky" to dodge serious injury when he walked in front of a motorcyclist after a late night out.
The incident occurred just over two weeks ago when Simpkin was walking home following a night of drinking. Without looking, he stepped out on to a road in West Melbourne and into the path of an oncoming motorbike.
Fortunately, the motorcyclist was not badly hurt and Simpkin suffered only a minor ankle injury, one which he has overcome in time to be named in North's team for its second JLT Community Series game against Richmond.
But Simpkin told NMFC.com.au he realised his actions could easily have had more serious consequences.
"Looking back on it, it's the best outcome possible. I'm very lucky to even still be here talking and even walking. For me to have been able to walk out of the hospital and play footy again two weeks later, I'm very lucky and grateful," Simpkin said.
"I was quite concerned, but more for the motorbike rider. Pretty early on I was told he was all right and he had walked away from the accident. That was a massive relief.
"I was really embarrassed about what happened; being out at that time of night with the season just around the corner and having had a few drinks.
"I've let everyone down within the footy club and outside of the footy club – all my teammates, coaches, the fans, staff, everyone involved. I just hope I can gain back everyone's respect and have everyone back on good terms."
Simpkin's first chance to regain that respect will come on Wednesday night when North takes on Richmond at Ikon Park.
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The former Murray Bushranger, who turned 20 on Monday, is looking forward to that opportunity.
"I need to play some really good footy and show everyone that it's not the sort of person I am," he said.
"I made a mistake that I'm embarrassed about, but the accident happened and it's over so I have to move on and prove why I'm at North Melbourne and show everyone what I'm capable of."
Simpkin donated $2000 to a road trauma organisation in the wake of his indiscretion, and has vowed not to drink for the rest of the season.
North's first selection in the 2016 NAB AFL Draft at No.12 overall, Simpkin played 13 games last season, primarily in attack.
This pre-season he has spent time training with North's midfield group, with the Roos looking to add him to their on-ball rotations.
