Jamie Macmillan player profile

Trying to cement a spot in an experienced, well regarded backline is a tough challenge for any player, let alone an 18 year-old with only a handful of VFL games to his name.

But when Jamie Macmillan comprehensively defeated Nick Sautner, for the second time this season, his form could no longer be ignored.

Although he might not have been given a chance this early had it not been for an injury to Nathan Grima, football is all about taking opportunities when they present themselves and Macmillan has done just that.

Three games in, the former Oakleigh Charger is still desperate to gain the respect of his teammates and the wider football world.

"In the first half of the year the back six were really settled. They all trusted each other and knew the game plan to a tee. While they were still developing each week, they really knew how each other played," Macmillan told kangaroos.com.au

"I've come in there for the last three weeks, so I now have to earn that same trust by performing on the field. If I can hold my spot for the final three weeks I think I'll go a long way towards that."

The battle for spots in North’s back six is fierce, but the generals in defence couldn't be more supportive in the development of the apprentice.

"Michael Firrito and Brady Rawlings have been really good to me. They've got so much knowledge on the game. I listen to everything they say intently and take it all in. I'm trying to take as much from those guys as I can because they are so experienced."

Macmillan was one of North Melbourne's best in its convincing win over Fremantle on Saturday racking up 22 possessions, however he says his greatest challenge was the week previous when he lined up on Bulldogs' captain Brad Johnson.

"Running out knowing your opponent has about 350 games experience is a bit daunting.

"I was looking back at my tapes and you could clearly tell that he outsmarted me on a few ocassions. He knew all the tricks of the trade, so it's just a matter of me trying to pick up on them as fast as I can."

One man who could provide some valuable tips is Brad Scott, the Kangaroos' senior coach having played in two premiership winning defences.

"Brad's very approachable. I can ask him the simplest questions and he is always there to help. The door to his office is always open. I've never had a coach that has such a strong relationship with his players. He's more than just a coach which is what you need."

And while he's under no illusions that North Melbourne has plenty to do in order to achieve sustained success, Macmillan says the future couldn't be more exciting.

"I've got no doubt that the young group of guys we've got at the moment have the right mindset and we'll go places.

"In a couple of years time I'm hoping that I can still be here, and if we can all stay together I'm sure that something special will happen."