“The way Blacky (Aaron Black) goes about his footy is sort of how I see myself playing,” Wood told NMFC.com.au.
PRESS PLAY to watch highlights of Wood | YouTube
“I learn a lot from watching him, his running patterns… the way he sets up and gets in the right position. He has done really well coming into the side and is playing some really good footy at the moment.”
Having worked for three years to push for a regular spot in the North Melbourne line-up, Black understands what lies ahead for the young key-forward; but he’s confident Wood is up to the challenge.
“He (Wood) definitely has the drive. I noticed that from day one in Utah. He was training the best out of all the newcomers in the pre-season,” he said.
“He’s only one or two centimetres shorter than me but everything about his game is pretty similar to mine. He’s really mobile, his fitness is good so he can play on the wing as well. It’s a good weapon for him to have to be able to move up the ground and into the midfield as well.”
For Wood, the step up to VFL level from TAC Cup last year took some getting used to, but he’s beginning to feel like he’s settled in and adjusting to the challenge.
“The speed and competitiveness is a real jump up,” he added.
“It took a couple of weeks but now I’m finding I know more of what it takes to improve at that level and have an impact. I’m just looking to keep improving, week by week.”
Black believes that development will come as he continues to seek out others, especially the more experienced forwards at Aegis Park.
“Mason does ask questions and wants to know the leading patterns and how to soak up knowledge from guys like Drew Petrie which is really good. He’s learning how to work against those bigger bodies to make sure he gets his own positioning right.
“He should have confidence in his footy and once he gets more consistency at VFL level that will be really important for him.”
Wood was one of Werribee’s best performers on Saturday, pulling down 20 possessions and 8 marks, but he has no intention of trying to upstage his mentor… at least for the time being anyway.
“He’s (Black) probably warranted the label as our best forward right now...I couldn’t see me taking his spot any time soon but it’s definitely something to strive for.”
