Sydney Swans youngster Callum Mills admits the prospect of a finals series in his first season is an exciting one.

Mills has been a mainstay of the Swans defence this season missing just one match when a decision was made to manage the 19-year-old’s work load.

He collected a career high 27 disposals against St Kilda on Saturday night in a sign that the young defender is relishing his opportunity.

Mills understands the importance of maintaining his strong form heading into September.

“Coming into this pointy end of the season you don’t want to miss out on finals so you are doing your best to stay in the team and doing what the coaches expect of you,” Mills said.

“One of the major things is that we are all pushing for spots, the senior boys and the younger guys.

“Competition for spots is really healthy at the moment and I think that is what makes a strong list.”

Mills could not hide his enthusiasm when asked about the opportunity of playing in a finals series with the team he grew up supporting.

“It is really exciting,” he said.

“That is the carrot that dangles in front of us, we all play footy for finals and to win premierships.

“I would be lying if I didn’t say I was excited for it or that is what I wanted to achieve so it is definitely very exciting.”

The Round 16 Rising Star nominee is being tipped by many to take out the award at the end of the season.

That honour is not something that has crossed the mind of the young Swan.

“I don’t really like to look back; I will do that at the end of the season,” he said.

“Right now there is a bit of business to do and we are all ready for it.”