NICK Malceski - the Swans' Skilton Medalrunner-up - says despite the plaudits he has much to learn as he looks ahead toseason 2008.

“There's a lot I need to work on. Whetherthat's getting fitter, or getting stronger, I've got lots to improve,” he said.

“I think I did okay for what I was expectedto do last season, but I don't think I was a good player. This year, what Iwant to do is to improve. And I'm still young.

“I'm really looking forward to next year. Ican't wait.”

Malceski, 22, paid tribute to his fellowSwans as he looked to emulate his heroes in the Sydney squad.

“I'm playing with some great players likeCraig Bolton, Brett Kirk, Adam Goodes, Tadhg Kennelly, Paul Bevan, Barry Hall,you know?

“I think with the guys I'm playing with, Ireally want to play like them. And I think when you go into the games, you goin there thinking you want to play like them.”

Malceski said last season was hisbreakthrough year in terms of consistently been selected in the 18. “Lastyear, my goal was to become a senior player regularly. Because the previousseaason I was sort of in, then I was out, and then back in.

“So last season I really wanted to become aregular senior player. And I guess I did achieve that by playing all 23 gamesthat we played. It was a long year - the first year I've played every game.”

He added: “I don't think there was anyspecial moment. I think every game, you take something out of it.  

"Even if you lose, I try to takesomething positive out of it. And if you do that, you achieve something good.”

Malceski began pre-season training earlierthis month with the squad and stayed on a fitness program during theoff-season.  

He's hoping the hard work will pay off nextseason.