Guernsey Number: 14

Age: 19

Career Games: 16

Career Goals: 6

Debut: 2012

Games: 16

Goals: 6

Disposals: 220 (13.8)

Marks: 55 (3.4)

Tackles: 75 (4.7)

Clay Smith undeniably turned heads in his debut game against West Coast Eagles with a four goal haul and a willingness to win a contest at all costs. As the season progressed he established himself as a regular contributor through the midfield, taking on more responsibility around the clearances and increasing his tackling pressure as he adjusted to the tempo of senior football. After the mid season bye Smith played all bar one game in the senior side.

Watch highlights of the Clay Smith major that won him the BulldogsTV Goal of the Year on the media player above.

The 2011 draftee produced a number of impressive personal bests in his inaugural season including 23 possessions, nine tackles (on multiple occasions), six marks, four goals, six clearances and five inside 50s. While he averaged almost 14 disposals for the season the final four rounds saw him average almost twenty per game as he continued to build in confidence. 

Apart from his stellar debut, a round 21 performance against Sydney Swans saw the nineteen year old produce one of his career best games. Smith had 23 disposals for the day as well as taking six marks, three inside 50s and one goal assist. The young midfielder also lived up to his reputation of being a fierce competitor, impressing with six clearances and nine tackles.

While Smith has proven he can battle against the more mature bodies at AFL level, increasing his core strength and overall size will help him stand up in tackles and power his way through contests. Continuing to improve his accuracy by foot will also be a focus.  

View Clay Smith's player profile and season statistics.