Like his team-mate Tim McGenniss at Werribee, the third-year North rookie has made a habit of taking the points against seasoned campaigners at VFL level.
“I’ve been very fortunate this year with a lot of the North Ballarat defenders helping me out when I’ve played on tough opposition, and I’ve been lucky to play well in those games,’’ Warren told The Leader’s Megan Hustwaite.
“I’ve played on a lot of different forwards and they don’t come more lively than Motlop, he was quick and took me up and down the ground. Gia wouldn’t stop running all day and I’ve given away a couple of feet playing on some other guys. But, the boys have been really good helping me out if I’m oversized.”
The hard-working youngster has relished the opportunity fine-tune his skills as a leader this season, illustrating growth and maturity with Kangaroos' affiliate North Ballarat.
“It’s been a really good experience for me to add another string to my bow. I’ve become more vocal on the field and helping at stoppages, it’s something I’ve had to develop and step up.’’
Warren always does his homework ahead of time when looking towards his next opponent. No matter what task he’s given, the 22-year-old from Healesville is meticulous in his preparation.
"Probably two days prior to game day we have a North Ballarat meeting at North Melbourne to discuss structures and who we’ll be playing on. With Shannon Taylor (Frankston forward) I got told two days before and we’ve got a lot of systems in place at North to watch the opposition, so I was able to watch footage of all his games and different angles," Warren added.
"It gives you an insight into how you can try and nullify their impact on games and the best tactics to use and it’s certainly helped me with the tasks I’ve had."
Warren’s dedication has impressed the Kangaroos’ Development Manager Ben Dyer, who believes his professionalism and preparation will hold him in good stead should an opportunity present at AFL level.
"Max’s attitude this pre-season was spot on. Sometimes when you come into your third year as a rookie it becomes make or break, but it’s a credit to Max how he presented himself," he said.
"He’s done every job he’s had really, really well. He studies the opposition during the week, looks for certain things on tape and works on how he could counteract that in a game.
"Max tries to mirror what the AFL boys do with their weekly preparation and because he’s used to doing those things it will make the transition to playing AFL a bit easier."
While competition for spots in North’s 22 is fierce, Warren is simply waiting for his chance to shine.
“My goal is definitely to play at AFL level this year and to continue the form I have in the VFL.”
