Ethan Hughes feels he’s learnt a lot playing as a part of a young and developing Fremantle side in 2017.
The defender was one of 14 first to third year players to earn game time for Freo in 2017, totalling 161 games between them in an eight-win season.
After missing the opening two rounds, Hughes featured in every game except Fremantle’s round 12 visit to Brisbane - playing 18 games and taking his career total to 24.
During the season, the 22-year-old was revealed as one of the AFL’s fastest players, reaching the top speed for round 17 at 36.6 km/h.
Hughes said getting consistent game time has fast-tracked his development.
“I’ve taken a lot of confidence out of this year,” Hughes said.
“Playing a string of games in a row has helped me build my body for the game and build my knowledge of pace and how everyone else plays.
“I’ve always strived to get better, so I’ll be continuing on to next year and seeing how we go form there.”
Hughes has earned a longer break than a number of his younger teammates, who will contest the WAFL finals series for Peel.
Hughes played four games for Peel in 2017, one game shy of the mark required to earn eligibility for the finals.
Despite taking a well-earned break, Hughes says maintaining his fitness will be a high priority.
“We’re off on a break soon but it’s a mental, not a physical break,” Hughes said.
“We’ll get out there and build our bodies so we’re prepared to go again and do better in 2018.”
According to Hughes, Fremantle senior coach Ross Lyon told the group that they should take heart from their development as the side targets a return to finals football.
The address happened in the wake of Fremantle’s 15-point loss to finals bound Essendon in their final game of the home and away season on Sunday at Etihad Stadium.
“Ross spoke about how we’re always building towards bigger and better things,” Hughes said.
“We’re always striving to get the ultimate goal, which is to play to play in the finals series and make a grand final.
“That’s something we’re building to but we just need to show some more consistency throughout the year.”
