Kayne Turner says he's ready to step up into a leadership role and guide an emerging North Melbourne playing group.
The small-forward missed the entirety of the 2020 season with a broken foot, but has clearly made an impression on his teammates and a new-look coaching group.
Turner's diligent preparation and outstanding commitment to the team making him the perfect candidate to play a lead role.
“I’ve always seen guys like 'Boomer' Harvey and Drew Petrie in the leadership group, I certainly never expected to be in there early days,” the 25-year-old told North Media.
“I knew I’d be one of the older boys this season and I’d have to step up … I couldn’t be more honoured to be a part of it.
“I’m grateful to be able to work with Robbie Tarrant, Jack Ziebell, Luke McDonald, Jy Simpkin and Ben Cunnington. It’s a great chance for me to learn off those guys.”
The hallmark of Turner’s game is the ability to set the tone for the team’s defensive pressure from the forward line, and he believes he will adopt a similar leadership style within the group.
“I’m not the one who’s going to talk the most in meetings, I try to set the standard at training,” he said.
“Robbie Tarrant is a similar style of leader to me ... he really sets the standard out on the track.
“It’s just taking on a bit more responsibility and helping out those guys who are coming through like Nick Larkey, Cam Zurhaar and Curtis Taylor, as much as I can.”
As well as turnover in the leadership group, the turnover in North’s coaching ranks has been well documented. Turner says the players have been impressed with the new staff, with forward coach Heath Younie leaving an impression on North’s new leader.
“The messages have been clear from David Noble right down. They’ve done a great job so far,” he said.
“The coaches have been so clear from the start. It just makes it so much easier for us players to get behind them and back them up.
“I’ve spent a fair bit of time with Heath … he’s been great with me, really honest and straightforward.
“He doesn’t beat around the bush and has been super helpful.”
Turner played in the pre-season clashes against St Kilda and Hawthorn, and is ready to regain his spot in Round 1.
