Josh Prudden’s first year at the Western Bulldogs has been a journey both physically and mentally, as he adjusts to the rigours of the AFL system.

Drafted to the kennel with the Bulldogs third round selection (pick 50) in 2012, the 18-year-old is pleased with his progress as he eyes a strong start to the 2014 season.

“I think I have seen a lot of growth both mentally and physically, putting on a lot of weight this year – it’s been a good step up and I should be able to play some good senior footy next year,” Prudden said.

“Mentally as well, it’s been a big improvement, I didn’t know what a footy club was about until the start of this year.

“It’s been a good first year, I think.”

Thriving on any challenge put his way, the Seymour recruit showed rapid improvement in his seven games at VFL level – predominantly with Williamstown’s development league.

Later in the season an ankle injury acted as a blessing in disguise, with Prudden’s time in the rehabilitation group allowing him to add weigh to his slight frame.

“I’ve learnt a lot about body size, I was a skinny kid coming into the club,” he said.

“It’s pretty hard to work through your midfield craft… when you are against 25-year-old men that are ready to play AFL.

“That’s probably been a big thing and I have worked on that a lot being in rehab in the weights room.”

While he is the only draftee yet to make his senior debut, the hard working midfielder is already drawing on his peers’ experiences and looking to the future.

“These younger boys, they help out a lot just through talk,” he said.

“The first ten games from Nathan Hrovat, Lachie Hunter, they’ve been really good to help.

“They give you little tips – not blow yourself up in the warm up and little things they have done and would have done better.”