IT’S been a big 12 months for Bayley Fritsch.

This time last year he was a Casey Demons-listed player and his season was coming to an end. Yet a year on, as an AFL-listed player with Melbourne, Fritsch is looking to keep his dream season alive.

“It was outstanding [the win over Geelong]. This time last year I think we’d just been beaten by Richmond in the VFL final and it was pretty disappointing, but a year is a long time in footy,” he told Melbourne Media. 

“I couldn’t have been happier on Friday night, getting the win, but we’ll turn our heads to this Friday night [against Hawthorn at the MCG] and go again.

“I’ve thought a little bit about [my past 12 months] but I’m just trying to keep my mind on the job and try to play the best I can for the team.”

Fritsch, who had an outstanding 2017 season with Casey, and was later drafted at No.31 by Melbourne in the NAB AFL Draft, has been a regular for the red and blue this year, playing 22 of 23 matches.

His versatility – he started the year in attack, and has since played wing and down back – has been a highlight of his game and something he thrives on.   

“I’ve played a bit everywhere and it probably works in my favour, when it comes to selection – I can move around a little bit,” he said.  

“I’ve played back the last few weeks and I’m really enjoying it.

“We’ll see where I’ll play this week.”