14. Craig Bird (2007 - )

[Syd]

player review coming soon!

 

[AG]

Re: 14.Craig Bird

Injury-free Bird poised for new season

http://www.sydneyswans.com.au/news/newsarticle/tabid/7106/newsid/128605/default.aspx

Now in the midst of an uninterrupted pre-season, Bird has targeted further improvement and game time for 2012.

“I’ve pretty much done every session so far and injury free,” Bird told SwansTV.

“I’ve been able to get through most sessions and definitely the fitness has been up which is a great improvement.

“Those (foot) problems seem to have gone away so hopefully I can keep on top of that and get through the whole season again.”

http://www.sydneyswans.com.au/news/newsarticle/tabid/7106/newsid/128605/default.aspx

 

[AG]

Bird happy to back on the SCG

http://www.sydneyswans.com.au/news/newsarticle/tabid/7106/newsid/131853/default.aspx

Bird’s hoping his new fitness base and extra time spent running laps on the training track will help him cement a spot in the Swans’ midfield this season.

“The thing holding me back in previous years was my fitness so I think I’ve taken that to another level and obviously other areas I’ve worked on playing through the midfield,” Bird said.

“I think I’m probably the fittest I’ve ever been throughout my whole career. It was good to finally get a full pre-season as last year was hampered by injury.

“I’d love to get a starting spot in the midfield but I’m really just happy to play any role the coaches want me to play.”

http://www.sydneyswans.com.au/news/newsarticle/tabid/7106/newsid/131853/default.aspx

 

[AG]

The tackle club

http://www.sydneyswans.com.au/news/newsarticle/tabid/7106/newsid/135514/default.aspx

Six rounds into the season, Craig Bird has emerged as the AFL's new leading tackler.

He has 49 tackles this year at an average of more than eight a game, including a career-best 11 against North Melbourne in round four.

Bird, who also played rugby league while growing up in Nelson Bay in northern NSW, has worked hard at a craft that is ingrained in every member of the Swans.

"I haven't really thought too much about it, it's just something that's come about with the whole defensive mindset and the game style we're playing," Bird said.

"Obviously you work at trying to improve all aspects of your game, but tackling is something I've prided myself on my whole career.

"It's also something that's come pretty naturally to me, playing a bit of rugby league has helped, and this year it's just gone to a new level."

http://www.sydneyswans.com.au/news/newsarticle/tabid/7106/newsid/135514/default.aspx