Mitch Honeychurch got a taste of the big time last season and now the 20-year-old is determined to cement a more permanent spot in the side in 2016.
The versatile midfielder was awarded a Rising Star nomination after a 18 disposal, four mark and six tackle performance against the Tigers in round two last year, and with pre-season soon coming to a close, Honeychurch is focused on carrying that form into the new season and adding to his 11 game career tally.
“I got a little inkling of what it was like last year, playing a few games, so I want to play a few more this year and see how I go," he told westernbulldogs.com.au
“Pre-season has been good so far, it’s been a long one, but NAB Cup is coming up around pretty soon, which is good, and the goal this year is to get as many games as I can.”
Honeychurch battled injuries throughout 2015 after some sparkling early season form, but managed to claw his way back into the side late, playing the final three matches of the year. Averaging just under a goal a game, he was a key cog in the Bulldogs' forward set-up when in the side, but it was his pressure going the other way that saw him stand out from the pack.
“There’s obviously things I still want to build on but my defensive pressure is probably the pillar of my game," Honeychurch said.
“Obviously it’d be nice to get a few more goals and a few more touches, but I think that will come with experience and hopefully I can get a few in the AFL side this year.”
As the group prepares to fly back to Melbourne today, Honeychurch said that the Sunshine Coast camp has been valuable time spent with this teammates, especially some of the newer faces.
“It’s obviously a good bonding session when you’re up here with all of the boys.
“You come in when you’re in Melbourne – you have time at home and you come into the club and see them then, but when you’re with them 24/7 it’s pretty full on, so it’s a good bonding session and I’m really enjoying it so far.”
As for whether any of his younger teammates might snap up their own Rising Star nomination in 2016, Honeychurch zeroed in on two in particular.
“Bailey Williams and Josh Dunkley are looking good.
“Hopefully they can get a nomination and go to the dinner at the end of the year.”
