This time last year Mason Redman was spending more time in the rehabilitation group than he was on the training track.
But the 19 year old’s preparation for his second AFL season has been uninterrupted, allowing Redman to advance his game.
“I’m really enjoying this pre-season … last year I spent all of January and pretty much all of February on the sidelines with tendonitis in my knee,” he said.
“This year I’ve been able to do all of the pre-season … and it’s really setting me up for a big year I think.
“I’ve hit PB’s in everything really so that just shows if you can keep yourself fit and healthy you can really make improvements.”
Redman spent the majority of last year honing his craft in the VFL.
He played 18 games at state level, averaging 14 disposals, four marks, three tackles and booting 18 goals.
Redman was called up to make his AFL debut in round seven against Sydney.
He picked up ten possessions and played a further two matches for the season.
“It showed me that I needed to get a lot quicker and develop as a player in all facets,” Redman said.
“That’s what I’ve been working towards this pre-season and the back end of last year, so hopefully it can all come together and I can have a good year this year.”
Redman hopes to eventually spend more time in the midfield but is happy to continue his development in the forward half for the time being.
“I’ve been setting up as a forward in the pre-season, the same as last year – that high half forward role,” he said.
“I’m hoping to push up into the wing/half forward role at some point but I’d be happy to play forward all year because that’s the spot I’ve been groomed to play.”
Redman is one of a number of forward options John Worsfold will have at his disposal this season.
Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti, Josh Green, Orazio Fantasia and Travis Colyer add to the small forward depth while Cale Hooker and James Stewart provide additional marking targets to complement Joe Daniher.
“It should be a good mix. I know whoever we’ve got on the park will give their all and if the ball gets down there a lot I think we’ll be really dangerous as a unit,” Redman said.
