AT the conclusion of the 2022 season, Jake Bowey knew he had to step up his game if he was to cement his spot in Melbourne’s back six.

So, that’s exactly what he did.

Putting in the hard work off the field, last year saw the livewire defender fight for his place in the Demons’ final 21, managing 23 games and ranking third at the club for rebound 50s, while averaging 16.1 disposals.

Using his infamous penetrating kick, the youngster became a consistent contributor in the starting line-up.

Now, heading into his fourth AFL season, Bowey isn’t planning on stopping there, looking to capitalise on the momentum he gained from 2023.

“[Last year] was definitely an improvement on my 2022 season,” Bowey told Melbourne Media.

“I was definitely more consistent in all areas of my game and my role.

Throughout the past four years, the young Demon has completed a rapid rise from draftee to beloved Demon, emerging into a well-rounded half-back.

An important part of Melbourne’s development of its young players is the club’s David Neitz Academy (DNA) – created to educate the first to third years on all things life and football.

The cherished pathway of the football department is led by Hall of Famer Mark Williams and has helped Bowey become the footballer he is today.  

“Graduating from that is a bit of an honour,” Bowey said.

“But the coaches really emphasise leadership from all players, so I don’t feel that there’s any extra responsibilities now.

“Time has flown, it is my fourth year, so I’m just trying to make the most of my time.”

At the beginning of December, Bowey re-signed with the club, committing to the red and blue for a further two years.

Putting pen to paper meant a lot to the 21-year-old, who said he wouldn’t want to have it any other way.

“I see a healthy, bright future for me and the team,” Bowey said.

“I’ve got great mates that I’ve built great relationships with over the last couple of years and I don’t see myself anywhere else.”

Following on from his re-signing with the club, Bowey was ready to switch his focus to the upcoming AFL season, keen to get involved further up the ground, his biggest strength his ability to switch out of defence.

“There’s been a bit of an emphasis on getting more involved offensively,” Bowey said of his role in 2024.

While Bowey’s rise at the top-level has been impressive, he isn’t alone, with fellow young defenders Trent Rivers and Judd McVee joining the 21-year-old as the future of Melbourne’s backline.  

With all the Demons providing powerful run off half-back, alongside experienced star Christian Salem, the group is gearing up to impress even more in 2024.

“It’s put a bit of pressure on me actually,” Bowey joked about his teammates’ talents.

“Juddy was awesome last year in his first proper season of senior footy and Riv is flying.

“And Salo, I’m keen to see him with a full year of action in.

“A few role models going forward, a great running back group.”

With just 42 days until the team kicks off the 2024 AFL season in the Opening Round, the group is honing their craft with a schedule filled with conditioning and match simulation.

“[The focus is] getting through these next couple of weeks of pre-season," Bowey said. 

"Sel (Selwyn Griffith, the club’s AFL High Performance Manager) has amped up the training, a few more tougher sessions, which is the focus at the moment.

“[In match sim] Caleb Windsor has been flying, all the first year boys, including Koltyn [Tholstrup].

“Everyone is moving pretty well, and we’re pretty healthy with a few boys coming out of rehab soon.

“But keen as mustard to get stuck into the season.”

While the Demons' 2023 season didn't end how they'd hoped, Bowey said the mindset of the group was as strong as it had ever been, with all players ready for more. 

“I think we’re hungry – that might be a word to describe it,” Bowey said.

“So, we’re just focusing on the little things and we’re excited to get into 2024.”