Brandon Coletta looks back on Anzac Day as the turning point in his TAC Cup season – and possibly his career.
In his two games prior to that day, the Western Jets forward failed to make an impact, and was more than likely skating on thin ice at the selection table.
But in a break-out game against NSW-ACT on April 25, Coletta emerged from the shadows to be an important contributor for the Jets.
And it had nothing to do with the lead-and-mark staple of his game. It was the tackle pressure and defensive acts of the second-year player that made him so valuable that day.
It also kick-started a run of seven quality matches which suddenly had the recruiters quietly pencilling his name into their notepads for the first time.
“Last year and at the start of this year, my work rate was really down,” Coletta told Star Weekly.
“It turned around after that one game against NSW-ACT, when my tackle efforts and defensive pressure was right up there.
“Since then I haven’t looked back, so hopefully I can carry this form into the rest of the season.”
A slight positional change has worked wonders for Coletta too.
He started the season as a deep forward but playing out of the goal square did not suit his strengths.
The 188 centimetre, 91 kilogram 18-year-old has since moved to half forward and flourished.
He thrives on the freedom of the position, where he can use his speed, repeat leads and football smarts to break off the leash of an opponent.
“I love leading up and jumping at the ball,” Coletta said.
“My work rate has been pretty good and I seem to lose my opponent easier these days.
“I feel more settled into the line-up.”
Coletta is one of the form players at the club.
He is consistently the leading marker in the side and has hit the scoreboard in all bar one game to have 12 goals this season, including a five against Geelong Falcons.
In a side heavy on first-year players, Coletta’s willingness to be a leader has been an asset for the team.
The Hillside Sharks product understands a premiership will not be found in the crystal ball this season, with this team being set up for success next year.
But he wants to play a key role in the development of his young teammates.
“We’ve got a lot of young boys in the side at the moment,” he said.
“Directing them where to go is probably helping my footy a bit as well.
“Even though we’re not getting results, the young blokes are going really well and playing good footy.
“It’s a young side getting ready for next year, I guess.”
Coletta’s dream is to play in the AFL, although it is not his only motivating force. He just loves to play the game.
“Everyone’s dream is to get drafted to an AFL club,” the Delahey resident said.
“It will be a bonus if my form keeps up and I can get my name up for the recruiters.
“If not, wherever I play football, I’ll be happy.”
Meanwhile, the Jets tumbled to the bottom of the ladder after a 32-point loss to finals contender Eastern Ranges at Bayswater Oval on Sunday.
