Sylvia aware of challenge ahead
New Freo recruit Colin Sylvia knows how hard it will be to break into the 22 in 2014
The former Melbourne midfielder joined Ross Lyon’s side through free agency after 10 seasons at the Demons.
Sylvia told reporters at his first Perth media conference on Wednesday morning that his only focus was to make a good impression at his new club.
“I’m just focussed on day one of pre-season, working hard to earn my players’ respect, my coaches’ respect, and everyone involved with the Fremantle Football Club,” he said.
The 27-year-old admitted that breaking into a team that finished second in 2013 was not going to be easy.
“It’s going to be extremely hard,” he said.
“They’re obviously a great team. It’s going to take a lot of hard work, but it’s the next challenge that I’m really excited about.”
Sylvia said he looked forward to moving across to Perth with his partner, Nicole, and beginning his new life as a Fremantle Docker.
The first order of business was to meet his new teammates and familiarise himself with Lyon’s intricate game plan.
“I’m going to have to study that and be educated on the whole thing,” Sylvia said.
“You can only see so much on game day when you watch them play.
“We all know how good their defence is. They make it really hard to score against and they had a great season and are a great team.
“They play a great brand of footy and I’m excited to learn how they play each weekend and what Ross requires of each player.”
Primarily a midfielder who spent time on the half-forward line in his Melbourne days, Sylvia refused to say where he wanted to play at Fremantle, should he get a game.
“You’ll have to ask Ross about that one,” he said.
“I’m happy to get a game anywhere at this stage.”
Sylvia will officially join his new club on Monday 18 November for his first day of pre-season.
He said he couldn’t wait to put his head down and earn his teammates respect and trust.
“Freo presents a really great opportunity,” he said.
“It’s a great fit for me and I’m really excited for the next chapter and phase of my football career.
“It’s exciting times ahead.”