Fremantle midfielder Neil Erasmus prepares for first AFL Grand Final

Fremantle midfielder Neil Erasmus is preparing for his first AFL Grand Final after deciding to remain with the Dockers. The 22-year-old wingman rejected interest from West Coast and the Western Bulldogs at the end of last season to sign a new three-year contract with Fremantle.

Erasmus, who was born in Johannesburg, has become a mainstay in Justin Longmuir’s side, being one of only seven Dockers players to feature in every game this season. He credited his improved performance to finding a better balance between football and life, as well as clear role definition from the coaching staff.

Fremantle faces the Brisbane Lions in the Grand Final this Saturday. Erasmus noted the team's resilience throughout a finals series that included victories over Geelong and Sydney following an initial home loss to Hawthorn.