MARK Seaby has faced a number of challenges in his AFL career and says he drew on lessons learned back in Perth to help him through his recent stint in the Swans reserves.

Seaby was the substitute in the Swans first game of the year, against Melbourne, but then spent the next seven games in the reserves as the club opted to play just one ruckman.

But when that ruckman - Shane Mumford - had to be rested with a knee problem two weeks ago, Seaby got his chance again in the seniors, and has played in the wins over North Melbourne and Brisbane.

“It’s been good to get out there and get my match fitness up and get my confidence up,’’ Seaby said today.

“I felt a lot better in my second game and felt I could run it out better. I was just waiting for my opportunity and it came and now I just have to make the most of my opportunity of playing in the ones.’’

Seaby faced a similar stint out of the senior team when he was playing with the West Coast Eagles, and he reflected on that experience.

“I was younger in Perth and dropped a few times and played in the WAFL, so I have definitely drawn on that. What I did then was concentrate on playing well for that team, and not put too much pressure on myself to dominate but to play well and consistently.

“I have thought about that and drawn on it over the last couple of weeks,’’ he said.
Seaby says since the new substitute rule was introduced, his aim has been to become a more versatile player.

“Definitely that is my biggest challenge this year, to diversify my game and not just be a one position player, to become a ruckman and forward. That is what is required of all ruckmen these days, you have to contribute more in other areas for the team.’’

Asked if he thought he would hold his place when Mumford returns to the side, Seaby said he was just focusing on playing well this Sunday against Richmond.

“All I can control is to play well this week and it is up to the coaches if they see me in the best 22.’’

Seaby came to the Swans through a trade at the end of 2009 and played very well at the start of 2010. However he broke his ankle in round six and missed the rest of the season.

“That is life, we just have to deal with the challenges that we face. Last year was an injury and this year it is the rule change and selection so I just have to do my best. I felt like I had to play good football and put the pressure on to get picked and now I have to keep playing well and do my bit in the ones to hold my spot.’’

Seaby said the Swans ruckmen are working hard to be more versatile. “I do a lot more forward marking with (assistant coach) Johnny Blakey, we all do a lot more of that to try to make sure we can take opportunities up forward,’’ he said.