Ledger's Return Adds Depth to Tigers Midfield

After three seasons and eight games with St Kilda, Tom Ledger has returned to Claremont.

The former Saint says he is now focusing on playing solid football in the WAFL.

“I was pretty disappointed not to play more AFL footy,” Ledger said.

"I think everyone that gets drafted wants to play 200 games but it didn’t happen, or it hasn’t happened yet so I’ll put my best foot forward and the aim is to get back in (the AFL).”

A mixture of injuries and competing for spots with champion players had made it difficult to experience more game time.

“I tore my hamstring off the bone in my first year, which was pretty difficult to overcome and then St Kilda always had a strong midfield with Lenny Hayes and Nick Dal Santo and co,” Ledger said.

After not being drafted by another AFL club, the decision to re-join his former team was never in doubt.

“I got drafted from Claremont so I was never going to go anywhere else,” Ledger said.

"I got a couple of calls from other clubs but I was never really that interested."

"All my mates are here and I grew up with a lot of the boys so it’s a very natural place to come back to.”

After getting a taste of football at the highest level, Ledger is in no doubt as to where he needs to improve his game.

“You’ve got to be able to run and give repeat efforts all day,” Ledger said.

“If you can do that, then you’re half way there."

"I think I’ve got the football side…it’s just getting the athletics right.”

Ledger sees himself playing multiple roles for the Tigers in 2014.

“I’d expect to start midfield, hopefully,” Ledger said.

"But I think with a couple of the forwards going, I will spend a bit of time up there as well to try and get some goals for us.”

As to whether the team can challenge in 2014?

“Absolutely. I think we’ve got just as good a midfield and defence,” Ledger said.

"We’ve just lost a few forward options but if we can find a couple, I think our team on paper is as good as anyone’s.”

by Dan Scamozzi