Cementing a spot in the Swans’ often impenetrable senior side has, for so long, been a major goal for speedy utility Dean Towers.
It could all come to fruition for the 24-year-old after an impressive showing during the 2015 NAB Challenge series.
On the eve of round one, all eyes will turn to the selection committee as a strong and healthy playing list – which will take on Essendon at ANZ Stadium on Saturday – is whittled down to a final squad.
Towers is in the mix having stood out in front of assistant coaches John Blakey, Henry Playfair and Stuart Dew in all three matches of the pre-season competition.
“He’s quick, he’s good overhead and can play big minutes,” Dew mentioned during the post-match press conference following the Swans’ thrilling win against GWS in Canberra.
“He always wants to learn and improve his game…look for him to really try and cement his spot in the side.”
Towers, who arrived at the Swans with pick 22 in the 2012 national draft, has form on his side with last year’s round 17 debut against Carlton transforming into six appearances overall.
The run gave his career a kick-start after spending weeks as an emergency waiting for his chance.
Towers took his chance to average 10 disposals with his speed and pressure shining through.
Much like his breakout season, Towers played in many roles during the recent NAB Challenge to average 13 disposals and kick two goals which showed his versatility.
“I’ve been really happy to get given the opportunity to play in all three matches and try and build some form,” Towers told SwansTV.
“I’ve been consistently trying to play my role and just working hard to do the right thing for the team.”
With dress rehearsals now over and as competition for spots heat up Towers said he is driven to cement a place knowing all too well the difficulty of breaking into the Swans’ outfit.
“The challenge is there every day to work hard,” Towers said.
“It keeps you honest every day and everyone here is getting better every day whether you’re playing seniors or reserves.
“So the challenge has been set.”