Michael Walters places a high priority on enjoying himself out on the football field, and it’s something that is continuing to pay off for Freo’s newest All Australian.

Walters was named at half forward of the 2019 All Australian team, joining Nat Fyfe as the two Freo players honoured on Wednesday night.

The 28-year-old was ranked as the AFL’s second best forward by Champion Data in 2019.

He averaged more disposals, contested possessions and clearances than any other AFL player who kicked more than 25 goals in 2019 and he trailed only Gary Ablett from that group for inside 50s.

Walters said he’s still not used to the title of being an All Australian.

“It’s a weird feeling. It’s a little bit of an individual reward for the hard work I’ve put in over the past couple of years,” Walters said. 

“It’s always good but it’s something that I’ll look back on at the end of my career more so than now.” 

Walters determined to build on All Australian season

Walters said his love for playing the game was key to his form in 2019.

“I’m just someone who goes out there to enjoy it and have a bit of fun,” Walters said.

“For those two hours that you’re on the footy field, or in the change rooms pre-game and post-game - you forget about a lot of other things outside of footy. 

“I just go out there and have fun. I don’t expect anything, I just want to play my role and also enjoy the game and playing with my teammates.”

Walters said that a recent switch into playing more midfield minutes has allowed him to take his game to another level.

“I felt 2019 was more consistent, my most consistent year in terms of touches and goals,” Walters said.

“That helps with the change up in positions as well. The majority of my early career was sitting in the forward pocket. 

“To go into the midfield and find the footy a bit more but also play with guys like David Mundy and Nat Fyfe, it was good to get a different look on things.”