All of the new recruits and rookies are going well and obviously there is a common bond between us after being drafted and arriving at the Bulldogs at the end of last year.
Even though we sort of stick together we make sure we get around the entire group, particularly with the older players to learn more about the game. They have been really open with us and helped us feel very welcome in this environment.
While we haven’t been assigned mentors, or older players to look after us, there are plenty of people to look up to. So, when the leadership group for 2008 was announced last week, I wasn’t surprised to see which players were included.
People like Brad Johnson, Scott West and Robert Murphy are, of course, fantastic in setting a really good example for the younger players. But it’s a new member of the leadership group that I have really noticed over the course of pre-season training.
Matthew Boyd is as good as anyone in terms of professionalism and the way he works around the club. If I could do half of the stuff he does at the type of level he does, then I know I’ll be doing all right! He’s also been a good sounding board for me about how to balance my life out as an AFL footballer, particularly because I am keen to continue studying.
Overall, the leadership group has got a really good mix. Some are really outspoken and drive the group, others are quieter. I’ve warmed to all of the different aspects of their personalities and the way they go about their business, now I look forward to developing as a player under their leadership this year.
