GWS swingman Harry Himmelberg is set to be embedded as a full-time defender in 2024.
The 27-year-old’s versatility has allowed the club’s coaches to use him up forward and down back throughout his career and while it’s benefitted the team, it’s never truly allowed the tall to nail one role.
In 2023 alone, Himmelberg played much of the first half of the season as a forward before shifting down back where he showed signs of becoming an elite intercepting defender that can pick up high possession numbers.
After playing nearly a full season of footy in defence across patches in both 2022 and 2023, Himmelberg is ready to make the defensive 50 home as he looks to build on his connection with his backline teammates.
“I don't think we're playing this game again this pre-season,” Himmelberg told SEN Breakfast.
“I think I'll probably be starting down back. It'll be my first pre-season as a back.
“I'm actually looking forward to training with the guys like Sammy Taylor, Jack Buckley, Connor Idun, ‘Whits’ (Lachie Whitfield) and ‘Pez’ (Harry Perryman).
“That’s no more chopping and changing in the middle of the year.”
Himmelberg and GWS’ first challenge in 2024 comes against the reigning premiers in Collingwood during Opening Round at GIANTS Stadium.
Some hype has already been built around the fixture with Pies ruckman Mason Cox labelling GWS’ home ground as a ‘showground for livestock’ - which was in his eyes, in stark comparison to the NRL who are opening up their season in Las Vegas.
Himmelberg is looking forward to the clash and welcomed Cox’s comments, he just thinks the big Magpie now needs to back up his words with some actions on-field.
“We’re at the Showground for the first round of the year,” Himmelberg said.
“It'll be awesome. I guess it’s the ultimate test against the reigning premiers.
“We'll definitely be looking forward to welcoming them for Opening Round.
“Hopefully we get a nice big crowd with the rugby league away and the supporters really come out and back us for a big year.
“I don't have much for him (Cox) to be honest. I think it's all fun and games.
“I mean, it's good banter, to be honest and if that creates an atmosphere around the game, then it does.
“I think you have every right to say what you want to say, but I guess you'd want to back it up.”
The Opening Round clash between GWS and Collingwood is set for Saturday, March 9.
