While Fremantle have had to endure injuries to key leaders so far in 2016, that hasn’t stopped the younger players from stepping up to fill the role, according to Michael Walters.
 
Having spent more time in the midfield so far this season, Walters has had to grow as a leader in the absence of some of the club’s leadership members, and has been helped by a prolific Freo ball winner.
 
“I like to try and take on a new leadership role and Lachie Neale has also been really good at that,” Walters said.
 
“He’s been one of the players especially (helping) me in the midfield.
 
“It’s something new and he’s stood up and is playing the best footy of his career so far.”
 
Walters admitted that he had worked on some nuances of his game to allow him to succeed both on the ball and as a leader.
 
“I just try to get on with the job,” he said..

Significant round for "proud" Walters
 
“Footy’s a funny game, you might get a little hit in the back and try to play for the free.
 
“That’s where I feel I’ve grown as a player, trying to keep my feet a lot more.”
 
While Walters said there was a period of adjustment in spending more time on the ball, he has embraced the challenge but admitted he still enjoys one aspect of his days as a forward.
 
“As a kid you always enjoy kicking goals and you enjoy celebrating,” he said.
 
“I haven’t played in the midfield since juniors, but I’m eager to learn and it frees me up a bit in the forward line.
 
“I enjoy playing in there, you get more of the ball and help out around the stoppages and defence a bit more.
 
“At either end of the field I’m going to try and do my role for the team and play my best footy.”