“He was the best player at the camp in Arizona and has a real good voice to all the boys,” Prestia said.
“He is flying at the moment, but the good thing is we have a lot of boys who could take up leadership roles in the next few years.”
Voted by his teammates as the best performing player in Arizona, Tape is off to a flying start this pre-season, completing his first full high altitude training camp.
It is a surge of confidence for the humbled South Australian, who has had to endure more than most 21-year-olds, including a full knee reconstruction.
Focused on playing consistent senior AFL football in 2014, Tape says his main focus heading into this summer is ensuring he gains maximum benefit from every training session, whether it is on the athletic track or in the weights room.
“My goal going in (to pre-season) was just to complete the full camp, because I’ve had a couple of injuries in previous summer campaigns,” Tape said.
“I’m just happy to get through every session.”
Tape revealed his 12-month absence from football has made him appreciate the game that much more.
“A lot of people say after coming back from an injury like that they appreciate playing footy more.
“I have become more appreciative of training and it’s not a burden on my mind.
“I love being part of the group, and after missing that time I’m looking at training a lot more positively.”
Meanwhile, the GC SUNS will spend the next fortnight gradually increasing their training workload in the lead-up to Christmas, with all 39-listed players now back at training.
