Danny Champness says a simple instruction, 'drilled in' over preseason by Jets’ coaches, has helped take him to the next playing level.
“Royce (Brownlie), Cam (Millar) and Ben (Parkin) were just drilling it in … don’t be afraid to take your man on,” said Danny.
“I’ve come to realise that is a big part of my game and being given the opportunity, by them, to go out and do it, has been massive for my confidence.”
The 19-year-old, who scored twice in 18 games last season, grabbed his first NPL goal in his fourth match of the 2021 campaign - the 3-2 defeat at Peninsula Power last weekend.
“Coming out of that game we were really disappointed we didn’t get three points,” said Danny, “we felt we were the better team.
“From our performance we feel we’re starting to find our groove and play some good football.
“There’s no easy games. Some teams are still finding their feet, but Easts had a very good result (won 3-2) against Olympic last weekend.”
Danny came up through Albany Creek Excelsior (ACE) to join Moreton Bay United Under 13s and has been with the club ever since, apart from a spell with the QAS/Brisbane Roar.
His first taste of senior NPL football was in 2019 and then increasingly last season. But, many feel 2021 is becoming a bit of a breakthrough season for him.
“I think my form hasn’t been too bad,” said Danny, “I know need to keep working and pushing, but coming to training and games with this group and this culture is great.
“I’m really enjoying my football here, trying to work hard, get as many minutes as I can and try to cement a place in the starting side.”
Danny is following his brother Joey, who made his senior debut for Jets in the 2015 double-winning season before joining Brisbane Roar.
Joey, who has Australian Under 20 and Under 23 caps, then went to Newcastle Jets, had a spell in Portugal, returned to Newcastle and is now on loan at the Roar.
“I joined with Joey and was at ACE with him,” said Danny, “these have always been our clubs, right the way through.
“People compare us and I do base a bit of my game on him. In fact, Royce still calls me Joey at training sometimes!”
Jets Under 18s play Easts at 1.30pm on Saturday and the Under 23s at 3.45pm. Canteen and bar open at Wolter Park.