Emerging, third-year Kangaroo Tom Powell says he understands how critical it is for him and his teammates to be able to contribute effectively across various roles on gameday.
Having players that can produce and execute a gameplan in multiple positions on-field is an important factor North Melbourne senior coach Alastair Clarkson has emphasised over pre-season, and Powell displayed in Saturday's practice match against the Bulldogs that he can be a dual-threat player going forward.
Despite the loss at Ikon Park, the No.24 tallied 17 disposals at 82 per cent efficiency, four tackles and four inside 50s while also booting two goals in a strong individual outing.
"It's important that all of us boys, especially us midfielders, are flexible and can play multiple positions in the team," Powell told North Media.
"(When we need to) we can change things around and get guys rolling through the midfield that are fresh to give us some energy and get the ball going forward with speed.
"It's good if I can get forward and snag a couple (goals) every now and then, but I'm happy to player wherever the team needs me."
While also working on improving his general football skills over the summer, Powell has noticeably added size to his frame as he looks to mix it with some of the bigger bodies that the AFL has to offer.
The midfielder revealed it's been a goal of his since North Melbourne picked him up with the 13th selection of the 2020 draft.
"It's something I've been working really hard on ever since I was drafted, trying to put on a bit of size," he said.
"I think it's finally paying off a bit more now, I'm hitting personal bests in the gym and what not, so hopefully I can see that come out in my game and get a bit more confidence to match it with some of the other big, strong mids like 'Cunners' (Ben Cunnington) in training."
With practice matches over and Round 1 just a mere week away, Powell says there's plenty of excitement and optimism surrounding the group as it prepares for West Coast at Marvel Stadium on Saturday, March 18.
"There's a heap of energy around the club at the moment," he said.
"The boys are all super excited myself included, (I'm a) bit nervous as well, there's a bit of expectation on us … but I reckon we're in really good stead to put our best foot forward in Round 1, so I'm pumped for it."
