Hayden Young is relishing the challenge of a permanent switch to the midfield following his successful move out of defence late last season.

Fresh off re-selection in Fremantle’s six-player leadership group, the 22-year-old is on a steep learning curve heading into 2024.

“It’s refreshing to be learning new things – it feels like I’m back in my first year,” said Young, who’s played 57 AFL games.

“Working in more intense (midfield) conditions. As a halfback you have a little bit more open space, but as a midfielder you have a lot less time.”

Young is training with Fremantle’s engine room this pre-season under the guidance of midfield coach Joel Corey.

Adjusting to new terminology is part of the journey, along with the intricacies of stoppage structures, specific player roles, body positioning and creating space for teammates.

Young’s move from half-back late in season 2023 gave fans a glimpse of his future, highlighted by his head-to-head clash with Brownlow Medallist and premiership Cat Patrick Dangerfield.

Young restricted the Geelong playmaker to 16 touches in Fremantle’s stirring seven-point win at GMHBA Stadium in round 20.

“Last year I was given pretty clear roles which - as an inexperienced mid – made my job a little bit easier,” said Young.

“But I think the natural progression is to be a ball-winning midfielder and have the ability to negate if that role is given to me.”

The Victorian’s silky left foot is another asset with Fremantle’s delivery inside 50 being openly targeted as in need of improvement by Senior Coach Justin Longmuir.

“Delivery is something that I take a lot of pride in,” said Young.

“There’s no better feeling than lacing out a forward who goes back and kicks a goal.”