Fremantle forward Sam Sturt has signed a one-year contract for the 2023 season.
After battling injuries in his first three years at the Club, playing three games in 2020 and one in 2021, the forward has been unable to break into the team in 2022 but has played regular football at Peel Thunder.
His best performance of the season came in Peel’s most important game so far this year, kicking four goals in what was a virtual elimination final against Swan Districts on Sunday to help the Thunder secure a return to finals.
Sturt’s season has had a number of strong performances, including four goals against East Perth and three against West Coast, West Perth and South Fremantle.
He is motivated to have a big summer, which he hopes will set him up for a return to the AFL team.
“I’ll look to have a big off-season and a big pre-season,” Sturt said.
“It’s been good to have a full year of footy. It’s helped my growth and has been really good for my development.”
Sturt said Senior Coach Justin Longmuir has laid out a clear pathway for Sturt.
“I love chatting to Justin, there’s always positive messaging when going into his office,” Sturt said.
“He wants me to work on my intensity, breaking and my aerial contest. It’s being consistent with everything that I’m doing down at Peel.”
A no.17 pick in 2018, Sturt has the potential to be an impactful AFL player according to Head of Player Personnel David Walls.
“Sam came in as a first round selection. He won a Rising Star nomination after his three goals on debut against Essendon but has been interrupted with pretty significant injuries,” Walls said.
“He’s got his body right but has been a bit inconsistent. In the second half of this year he’s really addressed what JL requires of him.
“On Sunday he played his best half for the year against Swan Districts where he kicked four goals.
“He was looking sharp with strong hands on the lead and his recovery to get back on the ball.
“Next year will be a big year for him. We’ve got high hopes for Sam.”
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