After tasting senior football for the first time earlier in the year, newly re-signed Saint Lewis Pierce admits he is looking forward to what lies ahead at St Kilda.
The emerging ruckman inked a two-year contract on Tuesday, extending his time at Linen House Centre to at least the end of 2018.
Pierce, 21, broke through for a debut against Carlton in Round 12 after forcing his way into the senior side following a standout period at VFL level.
“I’m stoked with the news. I got a crack earlier this year which was really exciting,” Pierce told saints.com.au on Tuesday night.
“I’m really looking forward to this year and beyond and what the club can really produce. Things are onwards and upwards for the club.”
With Tom Hickey commanding the No. 1 ruck spot at the Saints, Pierce has been forced to bide his time with Sandringham, only managing the one senior appearance despite sustained form in the VFL.
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Pierce reflected on his breakthrough game against the Blues, where he was finally rewarded after spending three and a half seasons on the list.
“I waited for the opportunity for three and a half years and finally got it so that was a massive achievement in itself,” Pierce said.
“It was just great to be out there finally with the boys, they really embraced me because they know how hard I’ve worked over these few years, toiling away in the VFL. It was a great day.”
Pierce attributed his spike in improvement this year to investing more time in the mental element of football, an area he says has made him a more consistent footballer.
“I think I’ve worked a lot on the mental side of my game and it’s really helped me a heap, specifically from the first few rounds where I really felt like I took a good step towards playing well every week,” Pierce said.
“My focus has been on consistency. Up to now I think I’ve been really consistent with my VFL performances trying to put pressure on ‘Hick’ who’s obviously been playing really well. I’m really happy with how I’ve played so far this year.”
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