SINCE being elevated into the Magpies' leadership group in 2015, Louis Sharrad’s hard work, ruthlessness and desire to help his side win doesn’t go unnoticed by those within the club.
Sharrad, a local Port Adelaide product who made his league debut in 2012 and won the reserves best and fairest that same year, has been one of the Magpies’ most consistent performers in the past six weeks.
Letting his performances speak for themselves, he is proving a pivotal part of Port Adelaide's midfield, having racked up over 18 touches in four of his last five games.
At just 21, Sharrad relishes the chance to be a leader for those coming through the ranks.
Sharrad told portadelaidefc.com.au he had learned much from AFL-listed Port Adelaide players like Andrew Moore and Kane Mitchell, who have opened his eyes to what it takes to become an elite midfielder and a leader.
"I am starting to feel more confident around the group, this is the second year of playing with the likes of Moorey and Kane in the midfield and I'm getting a bit more of a run in there which is good," Sharrad said.
"They've taught me a lot about where to go when playing in the midfield and how hard you have to work and reading play.
"Being in the leadership was a bit of a surprise being so young, but there's not many guys older than me in the team at the minute, so it's been a good challenge.
"I have enjoyed it and I feel like I can be a leader to the younger boys."
Sharrad said he prided himself on producing consistent performances week in, week out - something coach Garry Hocking had drilled into the side going into the game against West Adelaide last weekend.
He was pleased the side was able to rise into third spot on the SANFL ladder and was looking forward to this weekend’s rest before taking on the Adelaide Crows SANFL team at Alberton on June 28.
"It's [consistency] is something we've focused on for the past four or five weeks, ever since the losses against Norwood and the Eagles, so it was good to be able to tick the boxes against West.”
