In the lead-up to the 2021 season, Dons Digital is checking in with some of the Bombers' promising youngsters as they strive to make their mark in 2021.

Next up is exciting ruckman Sam Draper, who takes us through completing his first full pre-season, mentoring under Tom Bellchambers and what he's setting out to achieve this season.

Catch up on previous chats with Ned Cahill and Harrison Jones.

Sam, how’s pre-season been for you so far? 

"It’s been good and enjoyable. Obviously had some tough moments, but it’s been the best pre-season I’ve had to date. I haven’t missed too many sessions compared to previous years, so it’s been good to have a clean run at it."

What’s been the biggest challenge during this pre-season? 

"Sort of the ability to back it up session after session. This is my first full pre-season (I’ve been able to do), so I’m just getting used to the loads, but overall, I’m feeling really good that I’m recovering well after sessions and I’m fitter overall, which is good to see."

How does it feel to have recovered from your injuries and get a genuine run at training and playing?

"I’m playing with a lot of confidence now. Compared to where I’ve been before, it’s been great that I’ve been able to attack pre-season and not worry about any injuries and playing freely. I’m really excited for the season to come and have a full pre-season under my belt." 

How competitive has it been between yourself and the other ruckmen for those limited spots in the side?

"It’s been awesome. We’re pushing each other a lot over this pre-season, and it’s been really good to see Nick’s (Bryan) development. He’s gotten a lot stronger and a lot fitter and obviously 'Flip' (Andrew Phillips) is as good as he’s always been, so it’s always good to have them competing with me. ‘Wrighty’ (Peter Wright) as well in a different aspect is a forward/ruck type, but it’s been good to learn off him." 

How much has having a taste of senior football last year helped drive you to play more AFL games in 2021? 

"Playing against some really good rucks last year gave me a massive taste for it and made me really hungry this off-season, and I really do strive and want to be the best ruckman in the competition. Having that taste last year was great and I’m really looking forward to attacking this season."

What are some of the things you learned from last season when you made your debut and played those eight games? 

"As much as (the game) is physically demanding, it’s mentally demanding as well, so you’ve got to switch on in all situations and you can’t have any lapses in concentration." 

What’s an attribute you’ve personally noticed which has drastically improved over this pre-season? 

"I’d say my leadership. I think I’ve tried to make a point of stepping up in that area because I’ve got good connections across the group and I see myself as someone really developing in that area." 

How much have you learned from ruck coach Tom Bellchambers this pre-season? 

"He’s been awesome. Even last year, he stepped up in the hub as my coach when Mark Jamar wasn’t able to be there. He’s been awesome. Going through edits, even just out on the track, we have a really good relationship. We’re open and honest with each other and he’s helped me strive to be the best I can be."

Off the track, tell us a bit about who you’re living with and what they’re like.

"This year I’m living with Matt Guelfi. Over the previous years I’ve lived with him, Dylan Clarke and Josh Begley, but it’s just him and I now. He’s pretty good. I do have to clean up after him a couple of times, but I love him so it’s great."

If we were chatting in 10 months' time, what are some of the goals you’d like to have reached and accomplished in 2021?

"I’d like to have played every game. I’d like to help bring this team to play finals and win finals. Obviously, it’s one step at a time, but I’m all about team success."