Young midfielder Tom North is highly motivated to break into Fremantle’s starting 22 with an eye on a role in Freo’s engine room in 2019.
The 20-year-old held his own against seasoned AFL midfielders in Friday's intraclub game at Victor George Kailis Oval, including David Mundy and Michael Walters.
Apart from playing in a similar intraclub game a year prior, this was North’s only other test against AFL opposition to date.
“It was good to have a hitout with the boys and finally play some good footy,” North said.
“When you go up against blokes like Dave and ‘Sonny’, they’re stars of the competition, so you’re testing yourself against the best of the best.
“It gives you that confidence when you’re looking to make that step up to the AFL.”
North spent the majority of the game playing alongside fellow 2017 draftee and Eastern Ranges teammate Adam Cerra.
He said that he was pleased to see the younger midfield on team ‘white’ hold their own on the day.
“It was pretty slippery in there but I think the boys on the white team, we made a really good contest of it,” North said.
“We didn’t really get smashed in the clearances or anything, so I think we can be pleased with how we went.”
While pleased with his performance, North added that he still needs to build his match fitness.
“It was pretty tough, I’m not going to lie, I had cramps in the last quarter but it was good fun and I’m glad we got out there,” North said.
“I just want to make sure I’m doing everything right and keep my body right as the spot is there.
“The midfield is where I want to be playing so I’ll try to do everything right. It’s very motivating with an opportunity there.”
