Facing a long stint on the sidelines after breaking his leg in round nine, 2016, defender Alex Peace decided he wouldn’t let his inability to compete on the field prevent him from growing as a footballer.

In the ensuing year and a half, in which Pearce had proven himself fit and ready to compete as a part of Fremantle’s 2018 side, the 22-year-old has grown into one of the club’s most promising young leaders.

It prompted the 200cm key back to be nominated by the playing group as the youngest current member of Fremantle’s 2018 leadership group.

Pearce joins 24-year-olds Bradley Hill and Lachie Neale, as well as Michael Walters, David Mundy and Aaron Sandilands in the group led by captain Nat Fyfe. 

“As I couldn’t contribute on the field, I think the past couple years, (growing as a leader) was one of my mains goals,” Pearce said.

“I’ve been doing what I can to help guys out here and there and help them with their football, so I’ll continue to do that.

“Hopefully, I can do some work on the field now as well.”

Pearce said having the ability to trust in another player was what he valued most when casting his votes for the leadership group.

“I think, what I look for on the field it’s the guys I want to run out with,” Pearce said.

“I trust that they’re going to get the job done and also, off the field, showing some genuine care and support in teaching the young guys and myself as well.”

Pearce says he’s pulled up well from his first game of football in 645 days, taking six marks in Fremantle’s JLT Community Series clash with Adelaide on Sunday.

“It felt really good,” Pearce said. 

“It was really nice to be back and even nicer now that my body has pulled up well.

“I’m looking forward to attacking the next couple weeks.”