North Melbourne midfielder Dom Tyson is ready for a big year after a strong 2021 pre-season.
Tyson arrived at the club in 2019, but injuries have restricted him to just three games of senior football in two seasons.
Looking like he was back to his best against Hawthorn in last week’s AAMI Community Series clash, Tyson racked up 23 disposals and kicked three goals from midfield.
“It was awesome to get back out there against AFL opposition,” Tyson told North Media.
“I feel sort of like an 18-year-old in my first year again, it’s been great.
“I’m enjoying training … I feel like I’m in a good spot.”
After finishing second in Melbourne’s 2014 best and fairest, Tyson arrived at Arden Street with high expectations, but his limited game time has seen him struggle to fulfil his potential at the club.
Now fit, firing and ready to go, Tyson is keen to repay the faith shown in him and show everyone at North what he is capable of.
“I don’t really feel like I’ve exposed my best footy to the players and coaches yet,” he said.
“All I wanted from pre-season was to pull on the jumper to run out against opposition and have a crack.
“It comes down to me making sure I do everything right so I can get on the park and stay on the park.”
One of the veterans of a young group, Tyson believes North’s midfield youngsters can surpass expectations placed on them this season.
With the likes of Jy Simpkin, Luke Davies-Uniacke and Will Phillips under the media spotlight, Tyson is confident in their abilities to step up to the plate.
“Jy is going to go to another level this year, he’s moving beautifully,” he said.
“LDU looks powerful and confident, and then Will Phillips and Tom Powell are building nicely.
“As midfielders we’ve got to contribute. If you can hit the scoreboard it just adds another string to your bow, it might be Jy or LDU who pops up [with multiple goals] when we play next.”
