Young West Coast Eagles defender Tom Barrass says he’s making steady progress each week as he learns his craft in the East Perth league side.

WAFL FORM: Youngsters developing

Barrass made his league debut league debut less than a month ago against Peel, and has steadily worked on his form and fitness, coming off a low base following an injury ravaged 2014.

His strong marking has been a feature from game one, but the 19 year-old says he’s still yet to hit peak fitness.

“I feel like I’m moving forward,” he said.

“Usually it takes me about five games to become fully match-fit, I’ve played three now so I’m well on my way there.

“I’m feeling better as each game progresses and I’m pushing towards that each game.”

A strong key defender, Barrass is very creative with the ball in his hands and loves to intercept opposition forward 50 entries. He was one of the Royals better contributors at the weekend gathering 14 possessions deep in defence, but Barrass says there is still plenty for him to work on.

 “I’ve been happy with the communication in the back line, it’s a pretty good unit back there,” he said.

“I’d still like to get better with my skills, and running out the four quarters is the big focus for me.”

One advantage for Barrass is the fountain of knowledge he has at his fingertips here at the West Coast Eagles. Along with Backs Coach Adrian Hickmott and Development Coach Mark Nicoski, he also has his fellow defenders in Eric Mackenzie, Mitch Brown and Will Schofield there for him to lean on to accelerate his development.

“Schoey (Will Schofield) is helping me a lot this year, both on the track and off the field,” Barrass said.

“He comes and sits in on my tapes and helps me learn, and I jump in on his.

“Ezy and Browny have been really supportive also, which has been great.”