TRAINING the day after a defeat in an under-18s grand final showed just how determined Golden Square’s Regan Harvey was to play for the Bendigo Pioneers Football Club this year.
Harvey’s dedication to training throughout summer resulted in being much fitter and stronger for the Pioneers gruelling pre-season.
A year earlier he had tried out with the Pioneers, but did not make the list.
“Not being selected for 2012 was disappointing, but made me a lot more determined to improve my fitness, strength and skills,” Harvey said yesterday.
A key was shedding between 6kg and 7kg, as well as adding strength throughout workouts at Feelgood Fitness.
“I’ve become stronger through training at the gym and at school,” said the year 12 student at Bendigo Senior Secondary College.
Harvey’s TAC Cup debut was in the match against the then-unbeaten Geelong Falcons at Craigieburn.
Playing in a forward pocket or on a flank, Harvey kicked a goal and set up several others.
He has since gone on to play four games in the AFL Victoria under-18s competition.
“The tempo is the greatest difference,” Harvey said of the step from under-18s with Golden Square to taking on the likes of North Ballarat, Calder Cannons and Murray Bushrangers in TAC Cup action.
“Playing to the structure, your role, and defensive pressure are really important,” Harvey said of what is a big learning curve.
Tackling, chasing, blocking are the one per-centers he and his team-mates aim to raise each game.
Harvey kicked the footy at Harry Trott Oval in Kennington whenever he could and first played with Golden Square Junior Football Club in the under-12s.
Pioneers’ coach David Newett said Harvey’s foot skills are a major strength.
“Regan has such a great kick and is really dangerous forward of centre.
“So far he has kicked a few goals and set up chances for team-mates,” Newett said.
The coach said Harvey worked “super hard” on his fitness in pre-season.
“Regan took the feedback on board, went away and did a power of work to be where he is at now.”
Last Modified on 19/07/2013 08:52