Tom Young

Guernsey number: 31

2013 games: 15

Career games: 24

2013 goals: 2

Career goals: 4

Disposals                 16.5

Marks                       4.1

Rebound 50s             3.2

One percenters          3

Tackles                      2.1

Season in short:

The Collingwood recruit recorded an impressive debut with the Bulldogs in 2013. Just 20-years-old at the start of the season, Young played 15 matches as a lock-down defender. The backman finished third at the Bulldogs for average rebound-50s per game and equal fifth for one-percenters. With 16 disposals and four marks per game, Young showed some flexibility as a medium defender, finding plenty of the ball, as well as shutting down big or small opponents.

Stat that mattered:

The 21-year-old showed a real aptitude both playing a lock down role as well as rebounding from defence in 2013. This was reflected against Richmond in round three, where he gathered a career best nine rebound 50s.

What they said:

“We see him as a long-term prospect after he showed really promising signs at Collingwood over the past couple of seasons, particularly with his willingness to take the game on and his cleanness around the contest.”

- List Manager Jason McCartney after signing Tom Young during trade week

Pre-season focus:

Young has adjusted quickly to his permanent role in the back six and a solid pre-season training with his fellow defenders will allow him to build on that. With an extra 15 games experience in 2013, the NSW recruit will look to build on his tank to enable him to take another step forward next season.