But it was Oswald's neck that got a workout post-game, with three medals - the AFL Victoria Country and Picola District Football League best-on-ground awards and a premiership medallion - weighing him down considerably.
There could be no doubt as to who should win those awards; not only did Oswald prove a calming influence for his side with a stack of possessions, but he hit the scoreboard with two dazzling first-quarter majors as the Bulldogs took control of the contest.
A beaming Oswald, 34, said experiencing success at his childhood club was a footy bucket list item he could tick off.
"It's fantastic, to be back at my home club and have a win after so many disappointments over the years is very special," he said.
"I'm 34, not getting any younger, 35 will nearly be it for me, so it's really special.
"I was a 13 to 17-year-old at this footy club, it's the same blokes still here now with smiles on their faces.
"It's my family and some really good family friends and to see the smiles on their faces really means a lot. We'll enjoy the next couple of days."
On the grand final triumph against Waaia, Oswald said working hard to carry out a specific game plan was always going to be necessary against a formidable foe.
"It was tough, they play a very similar brand to what we try and do," he said.
"They attack from the back, and we knew we had to chop off their 45s. If we could do that, we knew we'd be well and truly in the game.
"Fitness in the second half carried us through. It's held us in good stead, which is really important."
Oswald thanked his partner and family for their support in achieving the ultimate.
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