The 2015 season promised so much for Michael Apeness.
After playing two AFL games in 2014, the towering 200cm forward was expected to push for a more regular spot in Fremantle’s starting line-up.
He was fit and working hard through a solid pre-season, heading into just his second season in the AFL system.
However, a serious knee injury shortly into the year thwarted his and the club’s hopes.
The highly regarded Victorian product was taken with Fremantle’s top pick, 17, in the 2013 National Draft.
He was once described as a “beast” by senior coach Ross Lyon and in training drills season in February took marks from three deep in the pack.
The softly spoken 20-year-old said he was keenly looking forward to next year.
“My knee is recovering slowly but it’s getting better,” Apeness said.
“I’m really looking forward to the next season starting.
“I’ve got to get my body right.
“Then get into some training and hopefully play some games.”
Apeness is among a trio of emerging talls, with Matt Taberner and Jack Hannath, pushing for a spot in the forward line alongside Matthew Pavlich.
During the off-season Apeness headed home to Victoria for camping with his mates.
“It’s nice to get some time away from footy and hang out with my mates,” he said.
