SAM POWELL-PEPPER had his difficulties in 2018, with form and suspension seeing him miss six games throughout the season.

A disciplined off-season and the friendship of former skipper Travis Boak has helped Powell-Pepper turn things around this year, according to the midfield bull.

“I went away in the off-season and just put my head down and worked hard,” Powell-Pepper said at a press conference on Tuesday afternoon.

“I made the right moves. Boaky and I worked hard in the pre-season.

“We bounce off each other. I learn off him and he learns a lot off me as well.

“I pretty much just copy whatever he does. Eat. Recover.”

The 21-year-old is averaging 20 disposals per game, up on his career average of 18, and has recorded a career-best 29 disposals against Brisbane in Round 3.

And he says he is more relaxed this season and not having outside distractions is helping him enjoy life more.

“I’m a lot happier. I’m a lot more relaxed and I’m just enjoying each game,” Powell-Pepper said.

“I don’t really have too many things to worry about. I’m loving life.

“Overall, just really enjoying life at the moment.”

Powell-Pepper’s role has changed slightly this season, with the strong-bodied midfielder spending more time in the forward half, but his mindset and attack on the football will never change.

“I normally just go out there and try to do my role and whatever I can for the team,” he said.

“I base my game around pressure. Hunt and try to bring that grunt to the team.

“I’m learning a few different roles now. I’m playing a fair bit more forward.

“Now that (Ollie Wines) is out, I’m starting to play a bit more mid.

“I’m just trying to play some consistent footy.”

Director - Aboriginal Programs Paul Vandenbergh says Powell-Pepper has become a wonderful role model in football.

“Peps is an example of getting through adversity and going on the journey to best stay on the path,” Vandenbergh said.

“He’s really created a role model effect and a flow on effect for others to be able to take note of.

“We are just really proud to tell Peps’ story, and I’m proud to see where he has come from and where he is now.

“Hopefully it’s a prime example for others to follow suit.”