Western Bulldogs defender James O’Donnell says his growth in 2025 wouldn’t have been possible without assistant coach Daniel Pratt.
O’Donnell played a career-high 22 games this season, averaging 10 disposals, four marks and five spoils.
It’s been a rapid rise for the 23-year-old, who was recruited as a Category B rookie in April 2023 and now has his 50th career match in sight.
“It’s still very surreal - I definitely don't take it for granted still,” O’Donnell said.
“It's an incredible position that I'm now in. It’s been a crazy journey so far. It's gone really quick but it's been made so easy for me by my teammates and my coaches and the staff.
“To think a few years ago, two and a half years ago, I was still playing cricket and wasn't here to now. It's pretty surreal still and I still pinch myself.”
O’Donnell credited some of his growth to backline coach Pratt, who worked closely with the third generation VFL/AFL footballer this year.
“He’s been phenomenal - I love Pratty and I love working with him,” O’Donnell said.
“Since he's come into the Club, he has really worked on getting to know his players and how everyone ticks and how everyone's taught.
“For me, he's been so helpful with that. We’ve been able to bounce a lot of things off each other, and I look to him for a lot of advice.
“He’s helped me a lot this year and hopefully that continues going forward.”
As a former cricketer, O’Donnell shared his excitement for the upcoming Ashes.
“I think it's going to be a great series. I think both attacks will be pretty aggressive and I don't think there'll be a heap of runs made compared to other Ashes series,” he said.
“I've got a lot more love for bowlers and green seamers than flat decks and lots of runs. It's going to be entertaining, but Aussies will get it done for sure.
“Boxing Day will definitely be on the list (to go to) - you can't really miss an Ashes. If you like cricket in Australia, the Ashes don't come around too often so you've got to make the most of it.”
