After enjoying a breakout season, Harry Himmelberg is determined to help push Greater Western Sydney further into the premiership spotlight in 2019.
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The forward didn't miss a game last season, which ended in a 10-point loss to eventual grand finalists Collingwood in the second week of finals, and Himmelberg is looking to use that experience to go better this season.
"You have to play a few finals series to get a feeling for what it is all about so hopefully we can take another couple of steps and get to the big dance," Himmelberg said.
The Wagga product played 24 of his 40 career AFL games last season.
He is hoping to continue what has turned into a very consistent start to his career.
"Personally I want to try and play every game again, hopefully not be injured and really build on last year," Himmelberg said.
"I want to get better as a player but more importantly as a team
"If we could take those next couple of steps it would be really good."
Himmelberg has experienced the nine new rules and interpretations in the JLT Cup games against Sydney and Adelaide.
He expects most know what they are in for now.
"It was really good to have a look at the new rule changes in the JLT," Himmelberg said.
"Obviously we saw a few mishaps and free kicks from it, which is good.
"It is better than having it in the season and being a pain to watch so we've got out heads around them and looking forward to round one."
The 22-year-old returned home on Wednesday alongside teammates, and fellow Riverina products, Matt Flynn, Jeremy Findlayson and Zac Sproule.
Himmelberg was pleased to see so many young fans out to greet them.
"It's awesome to get back to Wagga," he said. "Every time we get back here there is more and more people which is really good to see."
The quartet will be visiting schools across Wagga on Thursday before preparing for round one.
GWS start their season against Essendon at Sydney Showground Stadium next Sunday.
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