Second-year player Sam Switkowski said he’s starting to appreciate the rivalry between the WA teams ahead of Saturday night’s RAC Derby 50 at Optus Stadium.
The 22-year-old is approaching his second game against West Coast after playing in his first derby in round four earlier this season.
He said he was looking forward to playing in his first in front of a home crowd.
“It actually does mean quite a bit now,” Switkowski told 6PR.
“It’s my second year at the club. In my first year, I didn’t know a lot about it and what the rivalry sort of meant but I played a derby earlier in the year and I got a feel for that rivalry.
“There’s a lot in the crowd and I’m really looking forward to playing one in front of our home fans it’s our home game next week, so I’m sure it will be very intense and very physical so I can’t wait for it.”
Switkowski said he’s enjoying playing his role as a pressure forward after impressing with his tackling throughout his 13 AFL games to date.
Against Carlton on Sunday, he laid a goal-saving tackle that led to a crucial Michael Walters goal at the other end.
It was one of his five tackles for the game.
“That’s my role, that’s what the coaches ask of me,” Switkowski said.
“I’m that sort of defensive pressure forward so for me the possessions and the goals aren't as important as that chase and tackles and pressure.
“We know how important that is in the game now. Teams like Richmond and the Western Bulldogs managed to win premierships off that sort of pressure.
“It’s been a big focus for me, I’m just trying to keep building. I’ve now played 11 games this year so I’m starting to gain a bit more experience and it’s helping me along.”
