The standout player for the Fremantle Dockers, Luke Jackson, is pleased with the way the tall forwards are performing after the match simulation hit-out.

The Standout Player for the Fremantle Dockers, Luke Jackson, Is Pleased with the Way the Tall Forwards Are Performing After the Match Simulation Hit-Out

It had been a crisp morning at Fremantle Oval, the air thick with the buzz of pre-season anticipation. The Fremantle Dockers were gearing up for another big year, and all eyes were on the team as they entered the match simulation hit-out, a crucial test for the players to find their rhythm ahead of the season opener. Amid the excitement, one name stood out among the crowd – Luke Jackson.

Having joined the Dockers the previous season, Jackson’s growth and confidence on the field had been palpable. His athleticism, agility, and footy smarts had already made him a fan favorite, and he wasn’t about to rest on his laurels. After the hit-out, though, it wasn’t just his own performance that had him grinning ear to ear—it was the strong showing from the tall forwards.

As the game unfolded, Jackson found himself at the heart of some brilliant plays. The match simulation, designed to mimic real-game intensity, was the perfect test for both the team and the players individually. While the midfielders and defenders worked their magic, Jackson kept an eye on the forward line—especially the tall forwards, who had been steadily improving in recent weeks.

“I think we’ve got some real firepower in the tall forward positions,” Jackson said, his voice filled with optimism after the session. “Big players like [Nat] Fyfe, [Josh] Treacy, and [Rory] Lobb are all showing a lot of promise. They’ve got the size and athleticism to compete, but what really impressed me today was their ability to read the game, get into space, and create those opportunities that we need.”

In the hit-out, Jackson had made a point to connect with his taller teammates during key passages of play, positioning himself as a link-up player, playing with both finesse and force. His ability to mark and release the ball quickly had set up several forward entries, giving the big men in the forward line the chance to shine.

“It’s about creating options for them and making sure we’re all on the same page,” he added. “I can see it all coming together—there’s a real understanding forming, and that’s what you need when you’re looking for success in the forward 50.”

His praise for the tall forwards was echoed by coach Justin Longmuir, who shared his approval of the way the team had executed the session. “It’s early days, but there’s definitely progress,” Longmuir said. “Luke’s ability to integrate into the group and his on-field chemistry with the forwards is something we’re excited about. The tall guys are moving well, and it’s something we’ll continue to build on as the season gets closer.”

In the locker room afterward, Jackson’s enthusiasm was contagious. The team’s collective energy, both on and off the field, was already palpable. As players discussed their performances and areas for improvement, the tall forwards were already discussing how they could fine-tune their positioning and set themselves up to take full advantage of Jackson’s vision and delivery.

There was a palpable sense of camaraderie—each player pushing the other to be better, whether it was the experienced heads or the up-and-comers. For Jackson, it wasn’t just about individual accolades. It was about building something greater.

As the pre-season ramped up, the Fremantle Dockers knew they had a strong foundation. With Jackson anchoring the midfield and the tall forwards stepping up, their confidence heading into the new season was brimming. The future was looking bright, and Luke Jackson, pleased with the progress, was eager to see it all come together when the real games began.