Alex Sexton’s New Year’s resolution is quite simple – play as many senior AFL games as possible.
The Queenslander was charged with a variety of midfield roles in 2015; claiming the scalps of elite performers Brodie Smith and Adam Treloar in run-with roles, while also showing an ability to go in and win his own footy when required.
And the emerging utility isn’t overly fussed as to what position he may be asked to perform this year – as long as he can play his role for the team and contribute to the club’s rise up the premiership ladder.
“Whatever the coaching staff wants,” Sexton said at Metricon Stadium on Thursday.
“Obviously we had heaps of injuries last year so everyone got swapped around a little bit so just whatever I can offer.
“I had a little bit of a run-with role last year so if that needs to be the case again then I’m happy to do it.
“So just whatever gets me on the field.”
The Logan product has been in scintillating form this pre-season, finishing just off the podium in the first time trial of 2016 and leading the way through most drills with his work rate and intensity.
His pre-season campaign has recently drawn praise from both senior coach Rodney Eade and lead assistant Andy Lovell, offering a high distinction on his summer report card, and Sexton credits consistency as the primary reason behind his outstanding summer.
“I think it’s just consistency on the track,” he said.
“I haven’t really missed too many sessions – I think I missed an afternoon in the gym, that’s probably the most I’ve missed this year.
“So it’s probably been my most consistent pre-season so far as in staying on the track and getting the k’s in the legs.”
READ: Kolodjashnij, Sexton among the pre-season standouts
With his endurance ratings already among the best at the club, Sexton’s focus for the remainder of the pre-season is working with the high performance team on his strength and speed.
After playing 14 games in 2014 and 13 games in 2015, Sexton’s primary objective is getting his body in tip-top shape to be able to stay out on the park for the majority of the season.
“Probably just my body. I’ve kept it pretty simple this pre-season and even in the off-season just freshening up and being ready because obviously the load is coming and just being ready for that,” he said.
“It’s probably the most percentage of pre-season that I’ve filled out so far so obviously not missing a session from now and going from there.”
