Jack Newnes is more than twelve months into his role as a formal leader at St Kilda and feels much more settled in where he fits into the leadership sphere at the Saints.

The 22-year-old midfielder has set the pace this pre-season as one of the leading runners on the track, finishing up the pointy end of the time-trials, to lead by example with his dedication to his craft.

As the youngest member included in last year’s leadership group, and this year for that matter, Newnes admits 2015 taught him a great deal although he still has plenty more to give in terms of leadership.

“It was a great experience for me last year, but this year I feel a little bit more settled and feel that I can add a bit more to the group. Game wise I feel like I can really step it up and take my leadership to the next level,” Newnes told saints.com.au following the Saints’ leadership group announcement.

“Yeah I’m really happy, (to be included for a) second year running. It’s great to get the support of the group to be in a role such as that one. I’m really excited to take my game to another level this year and try and drive the group and make a difference.”

The consummate professional has been one of the best performers during the summer months, making a statement with his aerobic feats, as well as adding some more weight to his frame to help improve his inside game.

“Similar to previous years just putting on a bit of weight (has been the focus). I’ve managed to put on a few kilos and still get a little bit fitter,” Newnes said.

“I’ve been playing a little bit in the midfield so hopefully I can sneak in there a couple of times this year even though it’s pretty tough to get in there.

“I’ll probably still play a lot of wing, but I’ll try and get a bit more inside, just keep improving my game, get a bit more offensive and try and hit the scoreboard also.”

With a plethora of midfield options fighting for a spot inside Alan Richardson’s engine room, Newnes says the fierce competition for spots will be highly beneficial for the Saints pursuit up the ladder this season.

“It’s huge. It’s the only way the team will go forward. We’ve got almost a full list for training now so it’s very, very competitive for spots and blokes going hard. So I think for everyone’s improvement it’s going to be huge,” he said.