YOUNG Sydney Swan Jesse White is hoping to consolidate his role in the backline next season after being deployed across the park in 2008.

White, 20, played two games for the seniors last season. He debuted in round six in the draw against North Melbourne at Telstra Dome and he was elevated for the round 18 clash against the Western Bulldogs.

With his height and powerful build, White could develop into a marking forward or even a ruckman. For the time being however the 196cm, 103kg Queenslander is hoping to consolidate a position down back as the fight for positions begins next month when pre-season starts.

"I went down back in one game for the reserves and played well there but I've been all over the shop in terms of where I've played in 2008," he said.

"I enjoy my football most in the backline. It's where I get my intensity in the one-on-one contests where I can show my strength beating the man."

White could be a long-term replacement for Leo Barry, who will continue with the Swans for another season next year.

Teammate Ed Barlow has been impressed with White, who joined the club in 2007.

The pair played a number of games in the reserves together last season and Barlow is confident White's physical attributes give him an edge.

"When he goes for the ball, no-one can stop him. Give him a few years to develop and he should do well," Barlow said.

White's debut was memorable for more reasons than the obvious. Late in the game, White ran onto the ground from the interchange bench causing the Swans to have 19 players on the park against the Kangaroos.

The club was fined $50,000 for the indiscretion. White prefers to focus on the positives of his big day.

"It was exciting. I enjoyed it so much. Being out there walking out onto the ground and seeing the crowd. I'll always remember it," said White, who was drafted from Southport on the Gold Coast and is a former basketballer.

White, like his teammates, is on a program of training during the off-season. He says it's tough to keep up the three sessions a week but his mates up the Gold Coast might help him out as he looks to build on his two game career. 

"It's hard to motivate yourself but I've got mates back home who play football who are more than happy to come for a run or have a kick with me.

"I was lucky enough to play two games. I was happy with how it went this season.

"My goal is always just to get through pre-season and get the body right with no injuries. I'm definitely looking forward to round one in 2009 and I'm definitely going to be putting my hand up to play."