As Swans Team of the Century Centre Half-Backman Dennis Carroll aptly put, there comes a time in one’s career when they arrive at the signpost and are forced to choose between two paths.

“Turning left indicates that it’s all too hard, spit the dummy and walk away,” Carroll explained at Friday night’s Club Champion Dinner. “Turning right indicates you’ll acknowledge the challenges, put plans into place and work your way through.”

For Swans midfielder Tom Mitchell, that metaphorical signpost arrived at the end of season 2014.

Drafted with high expectations, the son of Bob Skilton Medallist Barry experienced plenty of ups and downs during his first three seasons at AFL level.

To that point in time Mitchell had managed only 20 games, including only six last season, knowing there was plenty of development left to reach his full potential.

Fast forward to Friday night, Mitchell stood at the lectern holding the Dennis Carroll Trophy as Most Improved for 2015 on the back of an outstanding season in which the prolific ball winner averaged 27 disposals and booted 10 goals.

With a glint of pride in his eyes, Mitchell credited the turnaround to a post-season sit down with the coaches in particularly midfield honchos Stuart Dew and Josh Francou.

“I was told by the coaches the things I needed to work on. They really helped me this year which I’m really appreciative of,” Mitchell said.

“The award is probably a reflection of all the hard work I’ve done.

“Every player goes through injuries and tough times. Having the support of teammates and the coaches makes it a lot easier.

“I can’t thank them enough.”

Mitchell hopes to take his game to another level in 2016 and, metaphorically speaking, continue on the ‘right’ path.