Hayden Crozier is a realist – he knows he is currently a fringe player at Fremantle.
But the 20-year-old is committed to putting in the hard work to become a regular in Ross Lyon’s side.
“Obviously it's going to be pretty hard, especially with Hayden Ballantyne back, but I just have to keep fighting at it,” Crozier said.
“I'm in the same position as a lot of the other younger boys, so I just have to keep working hard and make sure I am ticking off our trademarks at WAFL level.”
The small forward played in Peel Thunder’s nine-point loss to Swan Districts last Saturday.
Although it was a disappointing game for his team, Crozier said it was a positive step forward personally.
Gathering 22 disposals and seven marks playing as a high forward for Peel, the high flying forward said his body felt strong following a recent injury lay-off.
“After being out for three weeks you're not sure how you are going to go first week back,” he said.
“I thought I did alright and the team was pretty close to winning but we didn’t get over the line so hopefully next week we can get the win.”
One player who is helping Crozier reach his goal his Chris Mayne.
He, along with fellow second year player Tom Sheridan, moved in recently with Mayne.
Up until May this year, Crozier and Sheridan were living with a host family.
Mayne has proved to be a positive role model for the young forward.
“He plays a similar position to what I do, so ‘Mayney’ is a massive help,” Crozier said.
“More than footy tips, he’s just helped me out with my professionalism as well.”
“He gives advice about what to do when you're not at the club, things about your diet, and even your study.”
Having played eight AFL games this season, Crozier knows what is required on the big stage.
In his second year of football he has worked hard in the gym, adding 10kgs to his frame.
“I think I've developed both on field and off field,” he said.
“Last year I had glandular fever which ruled me out for the second half of the year.
“But I feel that I've worked really hard on my strength this year and that’s helped me against the bigger bodies in the AFL.”
The push for senior selection is driven further by Fremantle’s likely finals appearance in September.
Having missed out on finals action last year, Crozier is keen to get his chance this year.
“What the coaches decide to do with the team is out of my hands but if I just keep putting my front foot forward and keep trying to play my best footy, I know I am giving myself the best chance to get named,” he said.
“A lot of kids dream about playing on the big stage in September, that's always been a dream, and if I manage to get myself back in the team, that's my aim.”
