Fremantle Dockers rookie Matthew Uebergang had a quick response when asked about the biggest challenge he’d faced so far in his first pre-season at the club.

“It’d definitely have to be playing on Matthew Pavlich,” Uebergang said.

“He’s a big boy, he’s smart and knows how to use his body.

“It’s always a challenge.”

While the task of lining up on Pavlich was a challenging one for Uebergang, he said Pavlich was one of many Freo veterans he’d made a point of learning from.

“You have to look at the experienced players like ‘Pav’, (Zac) Dawson and ‘Johnno” (Michael Johnson),” he said.

“They play similar positions to me, so try and get as much knowledge as I can from them.”

First year pre-season update

As well as experienced teammates, Uebergang has also been privy to the extensive football knowledge of development coach Roger Hayden.

“Roger’s been great,” he said.

“He’s really been guiding me through the pre-season so far.

“We’re working on building the fitness, mental game and my one-on-one competitiveness.”

As Freo inch closer to the start of the NAB Challenge, Uebergang was pleased with the improvement he’s made in his time at the club.

“I’m really enjoying it at the moment.”

“Stepping up into the club, the environment and professionalism is a really good drive to improve,” he said.