Robertson: ‘Doing the little things right’

New East Perth recruit Nick Robertson says it is up to the club’s senior players to set the tone for the 2020 season.

The former Brisbane utility spent six seasons at the Lions and set himself apart with his commitment to diet, training and preparation on and off the field. 

The 24-year-old joined the Royals’ group at training for the first time this week and is confident he can contribute to East Perth’s rise up the ladder.

“The standards you uphold, the culture you’ve got to stick fat to, and the trademark that you set – it’s so important,” said Robertson.

“It’s about doing all the little things right, setting the standards and not letting them slip.”

A West Perth product, Robertson was selected at pick 34 in the 2013 AFL National Draft and went on to play 73 games for the Lions between 2014-2019.

“I was after a bit of a fresh start – something new, something unfamiliar,” he said.

“I had the opportunity to speak with Barney (Senior Coach, Jeremy Barnard) and a few of the guys about the direction the club is heading in and it was pretty exciting. 

“I’m looking forward to helping out some of the younger guys and passing on what I learnt up in Brisbane and just being part of a new group.”

Endurance is a strength of Robertson’s game – something he is hoping will hold him in good stead in 2020.

“Endurance has definitely been a strength of mine in the past and it’s something I’m looking forward to bringing to the group,” he said.

“From what I hear, I’ll be playing a bit of midfield. Getting to as many contests as possible will be key to me playing my role for the team. I’m looking forward to that.”

Robertson was already familiar with teammates Jackson Ramsay and Scott Jones before arriving at the Royals but is looking forward to getting to know the rest of the playing group.

 “They’ve all been really welcoming – it’ll be a nice, fresh start.”