OAKLEIGH Chargers speedster Sam Grlj is looking forward to a new challenge in 2025, set to take up increased midfield minutes. The top-ager has cut his teeth across half-back and aims to bring his “brand” to each level this season. We chatted to him at the Coates Talent League preseason testing day.

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PRESEASON Q&A

Q: Sam, can you start with some of your earliest footballing memories?

SG: I started picking up the ball when I went down to Auskick with my brother from a young age. I started playing Auskick myself and played my junior with the Canterbury Cobras, then moved to Kew Rovers eventually.

Q: Have you had any mentors along your journey?

SG: Definitely David Buttifant, and especially Ash Close and Alex Davey down at the Oakleigh Chargers they’ve been awesome to me. Really good support.

Q: How was preseason and getting involved with the Vic Metro hub?

SG: Preseason’s been good. Working with Metro’s been awesome, the quality of the players is awesome and you’re able to really work on your craft and work on what you’re not as good at, to get better at. Then also working your strengths as well to show them off.

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Q: What are the key strengths in your game?

SG: I definitely reckon my speed, competitiveness, and my lateral movement definitely really helps with my footy.

Q: And the things you’re still working on?

SG: Something I’ve been working on it my cleanness, getting better at that. So when I’m running fast, I can pick the ball up nice and be nice and clean with it.

Q: What kind of role do you anticipate playing this year?

SG: I think midfield to start the year and then we’ll see what happens from there, but really excited with that new challenge.

Q: Do you watch a lot of footy?

SG: Yeah, I do watch a bit… I go for Carlton.

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Q: Are there any players you look up to or mould your game on?

SG: Definitely Zak Butters and Nick Daicos, just the way that they use their speed and use the ball is pretty cool to look up to, and the way that Zak’s just so competitive.

Q: Is there a teammate you think we should look out for to have a big season?

SG: I definitely reckon Louis Emmett seems on for a big year. Made the AFL Academy and seems to be primed for a good year, so excited to work with him in the ruck.

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Q: Lastly, what kind of goals have you set for yourself?

SG: I definitely want to start the season well and bring my brand every [game] regardless of the level. Hopefully I can make Metro and then have a good champs and hopefully get picked up.