Our Season Summary looks back at how each GIANTS player fared during the 2015 AFL season.
Name: Jake Barrett
Number: 43
2015 Games: 18 NEAFL, 1 AFL
NEAFL Fantasy Average: 106
Awards: Western Sydney University Development Award
Background: Jake Barrett, from Temora in southern NSW, was recruited by the GIANTS in the 2013 NAB AFL Draft as a NSW zone selection player and came through the ranks of the PM CAPITAL GIANTS Academy. He made his AFL debut in round 23 against Melbourne.
Best Game: NEAFL Round 9 v Brisbane Reserves - 44 touches, five marks and nine tackles
Summary: It was an extremely consistent season for Barrett who averaged over 28 touches and seven tackles per game in the NEAFL. It took him until the last round to finally get an opportunity in the senior side but his effort didn’t go unnoticed, taking out the 2015 NEAFL Development Award. Barrett played as an inside midfielder, often leading the clearance and tackle count. He was named in the UWS GIANTS’ best players on eight occasions.
Pat On The Back: Persistence eventually paid off for Barrett who was rewarded with a senior game in Round 23 after impressing throughout the season.
What They Said: "I'm sure there were times throughout the year when a lesser person would have probably turned up and said 'it's going to be too hard', but his attitude has been terrific and his character is second to none.” - GIANTS Midfield Coach Luke Power.
Look Ahead: Competing for spots against a brigade of quality midfielders, Barrett will be looking to add another string to his bow next season. He kicked seven goals in the NEAFL and is becoming more comfortable with his ball-work around the ground after adopting AFL late as a sixteen year old. Expect Barrett to maintain his consistency and challenge for more senior games next season.
