New St Kilda midfielder Jack Steele has his eyes set on a Round 1 berth, following a stellar performance in the Saints’ second JLT Community Series fixture against Carlton on the weekend.
After being starved of opportunity across two seasons at Greater Western Sydney, the 21-year-old has mounted a strong case in the pre-season competition, amassing 25 possessions (13 contested), 36 pressure points, eight tackles and two goals at Ikon Park.
Despite missing the first half of the summer following foot surgery last September, Steele has put his best foot forward in the last couple of months, although he doesn’t envy the selectors position ahead of the opening game of the season.
“It’s definitely my goal to crack the midfield for Round 1,” Steele told reporters at a press conference on Tuesday afternoon.
“I haven’t had a full pre-season I’ve been injured for half of it, so it’s understandable if they pick someone over me. But I’m still going to put my best foot forward in the last JLT game and hopefully play Round 1.
“I think we’ve got a few issues in terms of picking the team. We’ve got a really healthy list so I think the coaches are going to have a tough time picking the team.”
Monday Wash-Up: JLT 2 v Carlton
In his first press conference since arriving at Linen House Centre, Steele admitted he found it difficult joining a new club whilst in the rehabilitation group but he still found ways to show his dedication to his craft.
“It was tough to come here injured but I knew straight away I needed to show everyone what I’m about by eating the right things, doing the (right) things off the field,” Steele said.
“Once I did finally get out there I trained as a normally did and put my best foot forward and earn the respect of my teammates.”
With one final game left of the JLT Community Series, Steele said the Saints will be looking to build more momentum into the start of the new campaign when they face Sydney in Lavington on Sunday night.
“We’re looking to get momentum into Round 1 and get as much practice in,” he said.
“I think the JLT 3 going to be a dress rehearsal for Round 1. We’re going to practice how we play as much as we can to start the season well.”
