Clay Smith
Guernsey number: 14
2013 games: 14
Career games: 30
2013 goals: 10
Career goals: 16
 

Season in short:

Smith’s second season was punctuated by highs and lows. The tough inside midfielder produced some outstanding efforts, including a 26 disposal, two goal game in an otherwise one-sided affair against West Coast.  To complement his already relentless attack on the ball, Smith improved his disposal efficiency from that of his first year, committing fewer clangers and adding a potent goalkicking threat with 10 majors. Unfortunately, an ACL injury to his right knee  in round 16 cut short his season. Smith spent most of the Bulldogs’ best and fairest night within the top 10 until the missed games at the end of the season impacted his overall ranking.

Stat that mattered:

The 20-year-old has forged a reputation on being no holds barred when it comes to attacking the footy and his form in his final six games proves just that. Averaging over six tackles per game, the ruthless young pup continued to make a physical impact around the ground. He also finished fifth at the club in average physical pressure acts and ninth in total pressure acts.

What they said:

“His appetite for the contest is second to none, Clay, and that is one of his real strengths. He can create something from nothing which is also a really valuable asset to have, because not everyone can do that. His next step is to now to keep adding that polish to his game.”

- Development Coach Ashley Hansen, round six 2013

Pre-season focus:

Rehabilitation of his right knee will be Smith’s overriding priority this pre-season. The 20-year-old underwent a traditional knee reconstruction in mid-July and has been working hard with the club's medical and conditioning staff to return to the training track ever since.

In the news: