Despite generally being renowned as a small forward, Bombers youngster Alwyn Davey Jr understands the need to remain adaptable in order to get AFL opportunities.
The 19-year-old played ten AFL games in his first season in the red and black, registering four goals, but also spent time playing through the midfield on occasions at VFL level.
Davey – who gathered 22 disposals in a midfield role at VFL level against the Gold Coast Suns last year – told media last week said he was always looking to improve his versatility in the team.
"I want to play as many positions as I can, especially if it gives me more opportunities to play in the AFL side," he said.
"I've been happy with what they've done with me in the VFL when I haven't got the chances to play seniors, I'll keep looking to stay flexible."
The talented Territorian was rewarded for his outstanding pre-season last year with an opening round debut against Hawthorn and recorded nine disposals and a goal.
Despite winning the Bombers' Lindsay Griffith Rising Star award, Davey Jnr is not resting on his laurels and instead has identified a need to bulk up to withstand the physicality of elite level footy.
"I wanted to build a bit more muscle and try not to get pushed off the ball as much, that was a big reflection coming away from my first year," Davey Jr said.
"I've pulled up pretty well into my second pre-season, it's tough as always but we're tracking really nicely as a whole.
"I'm still trying to have a lot of fun in my game and not overthink things too much, focusing on using my strengths to my advantage."
The Kokatha man found his way to the Bombers at the end of the 2022 season via the father-son rule, ultimately being selected with pick 45 in the National Draft.
His brother Jayden was selected by the Bombers nine picks later, but was cut down by a second anterior cruciate ligament rupture in 2022.
He spent last year rehabilitating the knee but after a challenging 24 months looks set to make his return shortly.
"It's great news with Jayden coming back, I couldn't be any more proud of him and the work he's put in over the last year which had been really tough for him," Davey Jnr said.
"He's making quick transitions and settling well, I think with some more time he'll be looking to get into the team this year."
