Nick Smith’s 2015 season by the numbers...
Games: 21
Total Disposals: 352
- Kicks: 202
- Handballs: 150
- Marks: 110
Avg. Disposals: 16.8
Contested Possessions: 96
Uncontested Possessions: 250
Rebound 50s: 64
Tackles: 64
Defensive coach John Blakey says...
“When you look at opposition you see Eddie Betts, Michael Walters and Hayden Ballantyne who are all brilliant small forwards who are capable of kicking goals. Nick Smith gets those guys week in, week out and does a tremendous job for us. I spoke about having an experienced back six and Nick is one of the pillars of our defense. We missed him in the final against when Walters and Ballantyne kicked a few goals that day. His value to our side is critical. What Nick thrives on is the contest and getting himself right to play week in and week out. You see very little fluctuation in his game. He prepares like a pro and that is where all of his energy go and that creates a great leadership model for him which is invaluable.”
Season highlight...
Nick Smith was a shining light in the Swans early season win over Port Adelaide at the Adelaide Oval in Round 2.
Not only did the All Australian defender show his ability to shut down an opponent by curbing the influence of Chad Wingard but he also created run and carry from the defensive 50.
Smith finished the match with a career high 25 disposals and nine marks but more importantly he had eight rebound 50’s for the game.
He also played a similar role in the side’s Round 8 win over Hawthorn at the MCG shutting down influential match winner Cyril Rioli on his way to 21 disposals.
It was once again a season of consistency for the hard working small defender who continues to be among the elite defenders in the competition.
Through the lens...
Nick Smith celebrates the club's Round 6 win over Melbourne at the MCG.
The All Australian defender had his best game of the season against Port Adelaide collecting a career high 25 dispsoals.
Smith suffered a hamstring strain against St Kilda in Round 22 hampering his finals series.
