BRAD Sheppard says a frank one-on-one conversation with Adam Simpson on the first day he met the West Coast coach in 2013 has been the catalyst for his form in 2015.
Sheppard has been a revelation for the Eagles this season in their injury-depleted defense and a major reason why they have finished second on the ladder and will host a qualifying final against Hawthorn on Friday night.
But it has taken some clarity and confidence to get Sheppard to play in the manner that he has. The 24-year-old was drafted to the Eagles with pick No.7 in the 2009 NAB AFL draft, but he managed just 45 games in his first four seasons as he battled to find his niche.
Sheppard, who hasn't missed a game this season, said Simpson could take a lot of credit for his form this season.
"The first day I met Simmo he sat me down and told me exactly what he wanted from me and where he saw me in the side and it gave me something to work with," Sheppard told AFL.com.au.
"We implemented that last year and I think from there it's just been building on that.
"It's been a pleasing year. I've had to step up with Eric Mackenzie and Mitch Brown going down.
"I've got a different role to previous years. With the marking and intercepting I think it's just about playing to your footy instincts, having belief and confidence in yourself.
"To date I've had an alright year. But I really want to perform now in big games, finals football."
Friday night's clash against Hawthorn will be Sheppard's first final. He played 18 games across 2011 and 2012 but did not play in any of the Eagles' five finals.
"I've watched it on the sidelines in the past," Sheppard said.
"I can't wait to be a part of it."
Sheppard is part of a famous sporting family with uncle Geoff Marsh and his two cousins, Shaun and Mitch, having all played Test cricket for Australia.
Shaun and Mitch Marsh are both North Melbourne supporters but he is certain they will back the Eagles during this finals series.
"They all support me and they would be jumping on the bandwagon I would've thought," Sheppard said.
"Deep down they're West Coast supporters but on the outside they call themselves North fans."
