Savigni looking to build after impressive start

In 2020, Subiaco's Colts side went into the grand final as underdogs, but walked out premiers in a 59-point victory over Claremont.

Among the names in the side were Fremantle duo Neil Erasmus and Matt Johnson, as well as Hawthorn's Tyler Brockman.

Closer to home however, seven players who featured throughout that season for the Lions so far have gone on to debut in the League side during season 2022.

One of them was defender Galen Savigni, one of Subiaco's 17 debutants for the year, who told Subiacofc.com.au Colts coach Chayce Creedy created a good environment for success.

"There was definitely something special about that group," he said.

"There was a good bond amongst the group, and Chayce (Creedy) was a great leader."

The Warwick-Greenwood product had been a solid reserves player during the club's 2021 campaign.

Ahead of this year, Savigni was hopeful of a league debut, but said he had to put in the effort after setbacks early in the season.

"I played the practice matches and I was hoping I'd play round one," he said.

"I got COVID and it set me back a bit, I had to build back my fitness and my confidence.

"I just had to put in the work and put in the hard yards to get a chance."

The defender got his chance in round seven, and hasn't taken a backward step since.

He said league football is a step up.

"It's tough, you need to be fitter and the bigger bodies make it a lot more physical," he said.

"The speed of the game is quicker and skills are better, which makes it harder to intercept and read the play."

The body of work showed on the field, where he was one of the Lions' best against East Fremantle, with 19 disposals and five tackles.

In the absence of Aaron Heal and Drew Rohde, Savigni said the whole backline needed to stand up.

"They were massive losses, they've been in the team for ages and have been crucial in big games," he said.

"Hendo (Lachie Henderson), Sterg (Jake Stergiou) and I knew we had to lift to help out Gus (Angus Dewar) and Stains (Kyle Stainsby)"

Subiaco's next generation of defenders have had the luxury of being able to pick the brains of some of the best defenders in recent times across the WAFL.

The 20-year-old said their experience has helped his football.

"They've definitely been role models for me," Savigni said.

"They've all led the way with their voice which is something I can improve on.

"They're disciplined and own up to their mistakes, they've been crucial for the team."