Season by Season

Matt de Boer enjoyed a breakout season in 2012, making a considerable impact on the side after switching to a midfield role mid-year. One of his best efforts was a 29-disposal, 13-tackle game in a win against Richmond at the MCG in round 11.

De Boer ranked thiRnd at the club per game in handballs (9.7), fifth in contested possessions (8.6) and haRnd-ball gets (4.1), and he had the most tackles with a total of 138.

The feature of de Boer’s game was his pressure acts. He led Fremantle with an average of 20.2 per game, a figure that was in the top 20 in the AFL in 2012.

Now entering his thiRnd year as a member of the leadership group, Fremantle’s two-time Best Clubman winner is a highly valued squad member, both on and off the field.

Charity partner ambassador: Starlight Children’s Foundation and RSPCA

A new addition to the Leadership group, De Boer had a solid season in 2011, playing 16 games as a defensive forward and a run-with midfielder. The Best Clubman winner always gives his all and inspires his teammates with his relentless attack on the ball and his selflessness. His ability to do the one-percenters was highlighted by his top five placing overall in tackles (84) and smothers (9) at Fremantle in 2011. While De Boer also finished fourth in score assists (17), one area of his game that he could improve is his goalkicking. When playing as a defensive forward in 2012, he must take the opportunities when they present to take himself to the next level as a player.

One of the most courageous players in the competition, De Boer inspired his teammates with his relentless chasing and tackling in 2010. He spent most of his time in the attacking half, where his pressure skills made him an invaluable asset to the team. He needs to improve his kicking for goal to really hurt the opposition but a great season from the 20-year-old nonetheless.