Fremantle rookie draftee Bailey Banfield is looking to knuckle down and build on what’s been an impressive start to his AFL career.
As one of six Fremantle players to start in all 13 games this season, the midfielder was understandably eager to make the most of the break ahead of Sunday’s clash with Brisbane at Optus Stadium.
“It’s been really nice having the couple days off. It’s something that is really helpful for me and, I think, all the boys really enjoyed having a couple days off to relax and recover,” Banfield said.
“I think being in that first year, you can get caught up in the bubble a little bit, so it’s nice, as a young player, to relax for a little bit and have a couple days off.”
The Claremont product’s rapid rise to AFL level was somewhat unexpected – taken at pick no.5 in the 2017 NAB AFL Rookie Draft and playing in round one four months later.
“It’s a bit of a dream start for me but there’s still nine games left so there’s plenty of time to keep going and improving,” Banfield said.
“My focus is pretty similar to what it’s been all year, to keep getting on the park, playing AFL footy and learning from each individual game while soaking in as much information as I can.”
A part of his AFL education has been managing his ferocity while playing as a tagger – a new role for Banfield at any level.
“I think just playing that tagging role, it’s something that I wasn’t used to and having that scrutiny as well,” Banfield said.
“(I’ve been fined for) three separate incidents which is a bit unfortunate, but I’ve learnt from each one and it’s something I’m looking to get out of my game.
“It is stressful knowing you’re coming up against the best players in the comp. You’re tagging them for a reason as they are such good players. It is definitely a stressful experience but you learn that much from it.”
In recent weeks, senior coach Ross Lyon has sent the emerging Docker forward with Banfield kicking a goal in each of his past three games.
“Being able to go forward and play with a bit of freedom has been nice and a bit different,” Banfield said.
“I suppose it’s just wherever Ross and the coaching panel see me ending up, but I’m happy to play whatever role they need me to at the moment.”
