Sydney Swans defender Heath Grundy seems to be saving his best for last after achieving a career-best finish in this year’s Bob Skilton Medal.

Grundy’s most consistent season to date was consolidated after placing third behind midfield dynamo Josh Kennedy and Dan Hannebery, with the 30-year-old averaging 16 disposals and five marks across the full quota of 26 games.

Grundy relished his new role within the Leadership Group and as a mainstay of what proved the competition’s most miserly defence by the end of the home and away season.

Unnerved and uncompromising against often taller and heavier opponents, Grundy’s year was capped off with a heroic performance alongside fellow defenders Dane Rampe and Nick Smith in the Grand Final.

He compiled an influential 21 possessions, seven rebound 50s and seven marks, four of which were contested.

Heading into the twilight years of his career, Grundy is showing no signs of slowing down and is refusing to put any limitations on just how much improvement is left.

“I guess I’ve kept improving over the last few years,” Grundy said backstage after accepting the award.

“At the moment I’m probably playing the best football of my career.

“There’s no reason why I can’t keep working on things and keep improving over the next couple of years as well.”

Aptly described as the Sydney Swans’ “ever-present invisible man” in a recent article, Grundy is often overlooked for praise and accolades especially with the likes of Kennedy, Hannebery, Luke Parker and Lance Franklin playing further up the ground.

Not that seems to bother the man who simply focuses on “going about my business” in that renowned dependable and durable playing style of his.

“I suppose playing in defence doesn’t help for a start,” Grundy added.

“A lot of things I do probably go a bit unnoticed during the game and the average person doesn’t really pick up on.

“But that’s okay - that’s just the way it goes.”