Young Merrivale centre half-forward ready for season 2019

The 21-year-old admits he has put in extra effort this pre-season and is hoping to reap the rewards. 

"There's been a heap of running and I'm feeling really fit," he said. 

"I've put my mind to it a bit more.

"I actually gave it a crack from the get-go and gave it 100 per cent."

Merrivale coach Jason Rowan said Britton would be a player to watch in his side this season. 

"He had a great year last year," he said.

"He's going to be a key position player for us in the forward six this year."

Britton also managed to persuade a couple of his mates to join the Tigers this season. 

He said he helped draw friends Charlie McDonald (Dennington) and Angus Campbell (Koroit) to the club.

"They took a little bit of convincing but we finally got there in the end," he said.

"Once one came over, the other did."

The goal-kicker said he looked forward to round one when Merrivale plays Russells Creek at home. 

"I'm pretty excited, it's always good to play with your best mates," he said.

"There's a good feeling around the club.

"We've got something special going on here." 

Britton, who has been a regular in the seniors since he was 17-years-old, said he would love to play in a grand final. 

"Finals is always the key, to play in the big dance would be awesome," he said. 

The youngster will be a fully qualified plumber in six months.

Merrivale Football Netball Club will also hold a family day on Sunday from 11am to 2pm at the Merrivale Recreation Reserve. 

The club's secretary Deanna Bourke said senior footballers and netballers would hold training for juniors on the day.

"We've got a fun family day that's bringing the club together and kicking off the season in a positive way," she said.

Have you signed up to The Standard's daily newsletter and breaking news emails? You can register below and make sure you are up to date with everything that's happening in the south-west.