Adelaide defender James Borlase says a renewed belief in his ability has been the key catalyst to taking his game to the next level in 2026.
Since coming into the team for the Round Eight Showdown, Borlase has proven himself to be one of the Crows’ first choice key backs, and taken on the role of curtailing the competition’s best forwards.
The 24-year-old was rewarded for his breakout season with a three-year contract extension, which was announced by the Club on Monday.
Speaking to the media, Borlase explained how the work he had done on his mindset had helped take his game to new heights.
“It was unfortunate for Keaney (getting injured in the pre-season), but lucky for me that there was a spot there that opened up, and I was able to come in and play some decent footy,” Borlase said.
“I think getting a consistent run at it has definitely helped me, I've also started working with a mindset coach on my days off this year, and I feel like that's definitely helped me have a bit of a different perspective.
“For me, it's mostly about a bit of belief because (in the past) I'd come into the AFL side off an injury or something, and I'd sort of build it up to be this big thing and ride every contest, and think if I lose this contest, I'm going to be dropped next week.
“I’m very proud (of what I’ve been able to achieve this year), I played a lot of SANFL footy, so it was probably a question of whether I could come in and play consistent, good AFL footy, and now that I've proven that, it feels good.”
Throughout the season, Borlase has been tasked with manning the best key forwards in the competition, and performed strongly in the process.
He said it was pleasing to be given such an important job by the coaches, and had learnt a lot battling against the likes of Fremantle’s Josh Treacy and Sydney’s Charlie Curnow.
“It’s a very tough job but something I like to embrace, Treacy's a gun, and I found that out on the weekend,” Borlase said.
“I'm happy I’m getting those tasks almost every week, and feel like I must be doing something right, it’s nice that the coaches trust me to do those roles.”
Along with battling opposition forwards, Borlase has been part of stiff internal competition for spots in the Crows’ defence, alongside the likes of Mark Keane, Nick Murray and Jordon Butts.
He said the Club was a good position with its deep key defender stocks.
“I've been in their position probably for the last couple years, it's a bit of a unique position,” Borlase said.
“We've got four defenders who have all shown that they can play great AFL footy, so it's a friendly rivalry out on the track.
“We all push each other, but in the end, only two can play on game day, so I'm grateful that the coaches have put their trust in me this year.”
Adelaide takes on GWS at Adelaide Oval this Saturday night, with the match to begin at 7.40pm (ACST).
Get your tickets here.
