Adelaide midfielder Sam Berry prides himself on being a tackling machine.

That aspect of his footy has always come naturally, according to Berry.

It was what helped him finish as the League’s best tackler with a total of 173 to be ranked ‘elite’ for average tackles, laying 9.5 per game.

But leading into the Crows’ 2022 campaign, Berry knew he needed to work on other areas of his game to earn more midfield minutes, given his AFL career began as a small forward.

“I think it comes pretty naturally, the tackling and pressure side of things, so I haven’t had to learn too much on that side of things,” Berry said. 

“It’s more my fitness and trying to win more of the ball, I wasn’t a big ball winner last year, playing more half forward. 

“Also, body work things as well at stoppages and around the ground.”

“I think it comes pretty naturally, the tackling and pressure side of things.

Determined, Berry spent the first four rounds of the AFL campaign working on his craft in the SANFL, before being called up for Adelaide’s Round Five clash with Richmond.

Since then, the second-year player only missed one match and played a total of 18 for the year.

Speaking to AFC Media post-season, Berry said he was proud of how far he had come since making his debut in 2021.

“It’s been a big step up, a big progression from last year which was the main thing I was looking for, so I’m happy with the way that’s gone,” Berry said.

“When I wasn’t picked initially it was probably just trying to prove myself through the first couple of games playing SANFL.

“It was that passion in the SANFL that helped me work my way back into the team and I think I have improved a lot in all those areas I mentioned.”

Berry said the group as a whole had improved as the year went on and he was looking forward to next season.

“A lot of us younger players have got a bit more experience, now,” Berry said.

“From where we were at the start of year I think as a group we have come a long way, so I think we are definitely on the right track.

“We know the last few years haven’t quite gone to plan but just stick with us because success is not too far away.”