Across his first three years in the AFL, Will Hams’ forays in to the senior line-up have been fleeting.
But already, a courageous attack on the ball is emerging as his trademark.
His willingness to scrap for possession at the bottom of the pack belies his slight frame.
Hams made his debut on a rain-soaked SCG in 2013. Later that year against Carlton, in his second AFL game, he neutralised an important contest late in the match.
He was helped from the field but the Bombers went on to record a memorable victory.
It would take another 687 days before Hams was back in the senior line-up after injury derailed his entire 2014 season and then stymied his development in 2015.
But now, Hams is in the final stages of completing his best pre-season.
“I’ve been able to get through most of the pre-season which was really good,” Hams said.
“It’s the first time I’ve done that.
“Coming in to the last couple of NAB Cup games I’ve felt really good so I’m pretty happy with the way it’s tracking at the moment.
“Hopefully I can keep moving forward without any injuries.”
Hams has been a part of the Bombers midfield rotation throughout the side’s first two NAB Challenge games.
He picked up eight possessions against the Blues and then 13 last Saturday against Geelong.
“I’m just trying to work my way back in to it, obviously I’ve missed a lot of footy in the last few years,” Hams said.
“I’m tying to get some consistency. I felt a little bit off the first game and started working my way back into it against Geelong.
“Hopefully I can keep building on that.”
As part of the midfield group, the 21 year old has been working closely with new Line Coach, Guy McKenna.
“He’s really taught us a lot. He has been good for the young group we’ve got here,” Hams said.
“I’m really focused on doing a lot of work with him, doing lots of craft – he’s been really exciting.”
Hams initially came to the Club via the pre-season draft but after last season, the Sale and Gippsland Power product was placed on the Rookie List.
“As a rookie I just want to get some consistency,” Hams said.
“I’m not putting too much expectation on myself for the year.
“I just want to get into games and get that happening again - I’ve missed a lot of footy in the last two years.
“I’m really looking forward to the season coming up and whatever happens, happens."
One thing certain to happen is Hams’ attack on the ball will remain as ferocious as ever.
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