Player Q & A : Jarrad Jansen

In his second year back with The Sharks, Jarrad Jansen sat down to give us his thoughts on the 2019 preseason.

1) Your second year back at East Fremantle, how is your pre-season tracking?

I’ve been out there every session again this year, so it’s been good to get another preseason under my belt. As a group we’ve had a focus on high speed running at game like intensity, it was a weak area collectively as a team last year, so it’s something we will hope to see improvement on in 2019. 

Personally, I’m in the process of dropping a few kilos which will help me cover more of the ground and stay competitive for longer in the midfield.  
 

2) You were drafted to Geelong as a prolific Midfielder, but we saw you play all over the ground last year, what role are we likely to see you play in 2019?

I’m looking to cement my spot in the side under the new coaching group and know that my flexibility is an advantage. I feel that I play my best football as an inside midfielder who can rotate forward and still impact that game, although it is important for me to find the right balance of time spent at each position.

3) First impressions of coach, Bill Monaghan?

Bill has been excellent in getting his message across to the whole playing group in terms of what is expected in the game plan and required at WAFL level. There are 22 spots up for grabs and he has made it clear that no one is locked in which has naturally made training more competitive. Our pressure around the contest and off the ball work rate was addressed on day one and we're making noticeable improvements as each session goes by. 

4) Who are some of the new recruits or returning players that have caught your eye?

Milan Murdock who’s come through our colts program has really set the standard at training this preseason in terms of training intensity and work rate. I think he will play an important role for us this year through the midfield with his attack on the football, speed and intensity around the contest. 

Morgan Davies is another one who has brought a competitive edge and drive to the group after coming over from Claremont. He’s had a slightly interrupted preseason but will be ready to make an impact once the season rolls around. 

Lastly, Blaine Boekhorst is back out training with the main group showing his importance to the side with his footy smarts, speed and leadership. Having him go down in the first game of the year last year really hurt us so it will effectively feel like he is a new recruit for us.  

5) What do you do with yourself outside of football (Work ect)?

Currently I’m studying Accounting at Curtin University and have 18 months remaining until I finish the degree. I’ve also been lucky enough to find a part time role in a small accounting firm which goes hand in hand with my studies 

6) What are you looking forward to in the 2019 season?

I’m looking forward to the opportunity to redeem ourselves as a club in the WAFL after a disappointing few seasons. It’s well known that we haven’t been up to the standard required at this level so it will be good to attack 2019 with a clean slate and without a limit on how far we can take the upcoming season. 

If you want to see Jarrad Jansen in action this season, purchase your 2019 membership here