Swans big man Sam Reid is enjoying the challenge of playing in defence after making the switch during the pre-season.

The 23-year-old has spent the majority of his first five seasons up forward despite being touted as a key defender.

Reid played a significant role in the team’s 48-point win over Port Adelaide on Saturday night restricting Justin Westhoff to just one goal for the game.

It has been a positive start but the key point to the adjustment, Reid says, was to remain open to playing different roles at both ends of the ground to increase his versatility within the side.

“Being able to have the ability to go both ends is what I am there for,” Reid said.

“I am still learning adjusting to some different roles, but I am getting used to it and learning a lot.

“I was drafted as a defender, I spent my under 18’s year as a key defender and probably the first three quarters of my first season at the Swans in Reserves as a defender so it is not completely foreign.

“It has been a few years since I have spent time there as a lock down player but I am lucky enough to have some guys next to me that are good at teaching and helping me along the way.”

Reid said working closely with Heath Grundy and Ted Richards will help improve his craft as a defender.

Already blessed with a strong overhead mark, Reid has focused on learning how to best position himself within the defensive half and the most effective way of shutting down his opponent week after week.

“You do all your work earlier in the week when you look into the player, what they are good at, where they like to run and what they don’t like,” he said on Radio Sport National.

“Speaking to other defenders as well, it is not just about showing up on the day and hoping he doesn’t get a touch.”

Footy returns to the SCG on Saturday afternoon as the Swans do battle with GWS from 4.35pm. Click here to book your tickets today!