By Russell Bennett
Callum Porter’s unflinching resolve in his relentless pursuit of excellence is obvious to all who know him.
Tough, hard, aggressive, and a vocal presence who sets high standards for younger players to follow – the Officer young gun is one of the Gippsland Power’s vice captains for this year’s TAC Cup season, and it’s a title he relishes. He wears it like a badge of honour.
More than just about anyone, Porter knows the true value of hard work. He was named in the initial Vic Country squad this year but didn’t make the final side.
Instead of feeling dejected, it only served to spur him on.
“It was obviously an honour to even be considered for the Vic Country side and it’s always been something I’ve wanted to achieve, so to miss out it was definitely disappointing,” he admitted.
“In saying that, it was something I moved past pretty quickly. In footy you can’t afford to focus on past weeks.
“It’s a pretty ruthless system that not only forces you to push to the next game, but also ensures you’re going to get setbacks. It’s just about how you bounce back that shows everyone your character.”
It’s impossible to not be impressed by Porter, who – despite being just 18 – has an obvious maturity level far beyond his years.
Following the news he’d been cut from the Vic Country side, Porter produced his two best TAC Cup games for the year – 36 disposals and four goals against the ladder-leading Geelong Falcons, and 31 and two against the Greater Western Victoria Rebels.
In his most recent game – on Sunday against the Bendigo Pioneers in Ballarat – Porter was named the Power’s best in another hugely impressive display.
The week prior he kicked a goal in his VFL debut for the Casey Demons.
“I feel like it’s been the best year of footy I’ve had and it’s the best I’ve ever felt in terms of my body,” Porter said.
“I’ve been lucky with injury, and in terms of my playing form. That 100 per cent does not mean I don’t have areas to work on – nobody is a perfect player and there’s deficiencies in my game that need to be addressed – but I feel like my strengths allow me to be confident in my ability and playing with a chip on my shoulder gives me the edge at times.
“In terms of leadership – being vice-captain and getting a chance to captain the group whilst Aidan Quigley was away was something I’ve loved and I love contributing to my team with my leadership on and off the field.
“Young guys like Caleb Serong, in particular, coming up into the side have been super. They definitely inspire us as a leadership group to lift our standards, and he in particular adds so much to the team and makes those around him better, which is a special quality.”
Porter knows that when he’s showing his athleticism, he’s playing his best footy. The feedback he’s received on his game has pointed to that.
He was approached earlier this season by Power talent manager Peter Francis and coach Leigh Brown about the potential of making his VFL debut, and he leapt at the chance.
“I was jumping out of my skin to get an opportunity after my team mate Will Stephenson had got an opportunity the week before,” Porter said.
“The game itself was definitely a step up in intensity and physicality, but I didn’t feel out of my depth at the level. It was an unreal day and the players and everyone involved at the footy club were super supportive and welcoming. Getting to play with guys like Jack Watts, in particular, was a thrill and a great experience.”
Porter knows there’s interest in him from the next level, having received a Victorian state combine invite. Now, it’s about keeping his name in the forefront of the scouts’ minds.
“My focus right now is definitely the cliche of taking it week by week, especially during this time of the year,” he said.
“Whether it’s a team goal of playing finals footy, or an individual goal of getting drafted – which are both strong goals of mine – no one can afford to get ahead of themselves.
“One thing Leigh always drives into us is ‘when the team is playing good footy, individuals play better’ so the team first mindset, love for the footy club and love for my team-mates I’ve had all year won’t change.”
