Majak Daw’s hulking physique has been a feature of the North forward line and ruck division over the past few seasons, but 2018 could see him presented with his biggest challenge yet.
During match simulation, Daw has found himself lined up on the likes of Ben Brown and Jarrad Waite in a new defensive role.
“He’s adapted well so far,” Defensive Coach Josh Drummond told North Media.
“He’s obviously playing up the other end of the field which he hasn’t done a huge amount of, but it’s been exciting because obviously he’s got some great attributes and athleticism. ”
Standing at 195 centimetres and built of 97 kilograms of pure muscle, Daw casts a frightening figure in the contest.
“He’s obviously got the size, and is able to cover the ground and close space as well,” Drummond said.
“His ability to run and jump at the ball and attack it in the air is unrivalled really. There’s a lot of attributes he’s got that can really make him into a solid defender.
“Last week he played a half in the VFL squad and half with the AFL boys during match simulation to get a bit of experience playing on a quality player in Ben Brown.”
Daw had no trouble settling in, despite finding himself in unfamiliar territory.
“It was a really good hit-out for him, ” Drummond said.
“With the game conditions, more numbers and more pressure on the ball, he looked right at home.
“It doesn’t get much tougher than playing on Browny, and you’re going to learn a lot playing against one of the best forwards in the competition.”
Drummond is under no illusions that there is still many challenges and lessons to be learned during Daw’s transition.
“Working in a team within a team in that back six is a new challenge in itself, as is building that defensive synergy,” he said.
“In some respects it can be pretty simple, because he’s got his opponent as a reference point and first and foremost he’s trying to limit their impact. But the ability to read the play and know when to support and the stuff that the high-quality defenders do, that’s the stuff that we’ll work with him, and the things that take time.
“He’s got a bit to learn, but that’s what pre-season is here for.”
Although the process of transitioning from a forward to a backman was never going to be a straightforward one, Drummond believes Daw is on the right track.
“It’s been a small sample of size (of Daw playing in defence), but all we are looking for is the right attitude and willingness to improve, and he’s got that,” he added.
“Every session he’s looking better and better so it’s only positive so far.
“He’s really enjoyed it and shown a fair bit out on the track, so it’s so far so good.”
And to whether North fans can expect to see Daw in action in his role in the AFLX and JLT series?
“It’s possible,” Drummond said.
“He’s played around the ground over the years, and if all goes well we’d love to give him some game-time down there.”
