While his AFL career so far hasn’t been conventional, Tanner Smith is thankful for the challenges he’s faced as he looks toward his third career game this Saturday against Brisbane.
Smith, who has managed just two games since debuting in 2013, has faced his ups and downs but is excited for another opportunity at the AFL level.
“I was delisted and put on the rookie list a couple of years ago and that was a hard time and I had a bad run with injury,” Smith said.
“I’ve strung together some games in the WAFL, have played some more consistent footy and felt a lot more positive about the way I’m going and it’s good to finally have another opportunity this weekend.”
The 196cm key forward was barely able to contain his excitement about getting the call up for senior selection, and was quick to share the good news.
“I found out in the team meeting this morning before we went out to training,” he said.
“I had no idea I was playing and my heart was beating 100 miles an hour.
“I gave the ‘old man’ a call and he was very happy for me, it’s obviously been a while so hopefully they’ll come up (to Brisbane) on the weekend.”
Talking points: Rd 12 v Brisbane
While playing only his third game in four seasons and coming in for the injured Matthew Pavlich may seem a daunting task, Smith said he wouldn’t feel any added pressure, and that his motivation would remain the same.
“(It’s about) putting on the jumper for Freo,” he said.
“I just want to get out there, do the best I can and enjoy the moment.
“The coaches talk about effort and role and that’s all they ask for so that’s all I’m focusing on.
“When it’s my turn to go, it’s my turn to go.”
Smith was upgraded from the rookie list to the senior list as a replacement for Nat Fyfe, who was placed on the long term injury list on last week.
