Indigenous-talent Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti has credited an increased endurance base as the catalyst behind his stellar early-season form.

VFL-listed McDonald-Tipungwuti averages 18.8 possessions a game in 2015, which includes his stellar best-afield 24-disposal performance against Box Hill a fortnight ago.

“This year I’ve focused more on my endurance, because I didn’t have that in my game in the last couple of years,” McDonald-Tipungwuti said.

“It’s turned out to be a big improvement for myself, so all the extras in the gym, on the treadmill and swimming has paid off. It’s keeping me going and getting those few kilometers in the legs has allowed me to keep up with the game.

“I’ve worked on that really hard and it’s really helped me on my game.”

Predominately playing across the halfback line for the VFL Bombers, the 22-year-old actually began his footballing career as a forward.

“Throughout my career I’ve played more as a small forward and it was actually just two years ago at Gippsland Power that I started playing halfback with Nick Stevens being the coach, he saw something in me.

“He looked at me playing the role that Alan Didak and Leon Davis did for Collingwood across the halfback line, so he said we will give you a chance there.

“And I’ve played halfback ever since and I’m really happy where I am.”

McDonald-Tipungwuti admits running out against the VFL Tigers at ME Bank Centre this weekend will be something to cherish.

“It’s a real privilege and an honor to play in this weekend because I haven’t played in this round before– it will be my first game playing in Indigenous round.

“Watching the boys like Demps playing in the Dreamtime at the ‘G makes me proud and gives me something to look up to and play this week.

“I’m really happy to play and really excited for the Indigenous round.”

Whilst not playing VFL on the weekend, McDonald-Tipungwuti works as a teacher's aid at Chairo Christian School in Gippsland, as well as spending a couple of days a week in the office at Essendon headquarters.

“I’m working with Salim Mahaziin in the Community Department at Essendon and enjoying that and learning a few things off him.

“Also this year I’m doing a bit for the Long Walk and I’ve tried to get myself involved in that. I’m really enjoying it all and want to work in footy in the future.”

Originating from the Tiwi Islands north of Darwin, McDonald-Tipungwuti made the move to Victoria almost seven years ago for education. That was until his footballing prowess became apparent.

“At the start I was more focused on my education until I was about 17 then I played for the Gippsland Power in the TAC Cup Competition, then made my way in footy.

“It’s a long way from where I started to now and looking back it’s amazing how far I’ve got.”

Still, despite his spectacular journey, he remains grounded.

“At the moment I’m looking forward to staying here and making my career at Essendon even if it’s not footy. I want to stay down here and learn more and get more experience. 

“Maybe one day I’ll go back home, but at the moment my career is down here and I’m really loving it.”