Much like St Kilda in 2015, livewire small forward Jack Lonie exceeded expectations in his first season and is now determined to entrench himself inside the Saints forward setup and build on an impressive start to his career.

The classy left-footer with the dazzling feet played 17 games last season to win St Kilda’s best emerging player prize, adding to the Rising Star nomination he earned for his performance against Essendon in Round 10.

On the eve of his second season at Linen House Centre, Lonie has set his sights on playing every game this season, as well as working towards being one of the premier small forwards in the game.

“My aim is to play every game, whether the fitness staff let me or my form permits, I just really want to play every game, get as much experience under my belt and really look to improve on last year,” Lonie told saints.com.au after Sunday’s game.

“I thought I played a few games, but I think it’s time to establish myself in the AFL and become a really good small forward in the competition.”

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In Sunday’s final NAB Challenge hit out against Melbourne at Etihad Stadium, Lonie was one of St Kilda’s key contributors in the 24-point loss. Right from the opening bounce, the pocket rocket was in the thick of the action, acquiring leather and applying pressure.

Lonie, 19, finished the afternoon with 19 possessions, five tackles, three inside 50s and three goal assists, admitting it was satisfying to found some touch after starting poorly against North Melbourne in Wangaratta.

“It was good to bounce back, I was pretty disappointed with my game against North Melbourne – a lot of us were – to bounce back and take a bit of form into Port Adelaide will be really good and give me a bit of confidence,” Lonie said.

Monday Wash Up: NAB Challenge 3 v Melbourne

Like all second-year players, pre-season No. 2 has looked starkly different to Lonie’s first exposure to summer inside an AFL tent. His workload has significantly increased, with a greater emphasis placed on adding size to a teenage frame that has built over the pre-season. 

“(There has been an) increased workload from first-year, they obviously managed me. It’s been good to get a bit more running under my belt,” Lonie said.

“I’m just really trying to build an AFL body and put on a bit of size. I’ve felt that I’ve been able to add a few kilos, a bit of muscle and a bit of strength to be able to stay over the footy.

“It’s been a long pre-season; we’ve learnt a lot, we’re really looking forward to putting it into practice, having a really good year and building on last year.”