To be the best, you need to learn from the best.

That’s exactly how Jack Maibaum sees it, and has approached his first few months as an AFL player.

A promising defender who arrived via Pick 45 in November’s National Draft, the 18-year-old could not have asked for a better introduction to the top level after being sworn in as a new member of the league’s best backline.

In consecutive years, the Sydney Swans’ defence conceded the least amount of points of any side. Last year they let slide a lowly average of 66.8 points per game by the end of the regular season.

Not surprisingly, Maibaum didn’t waste any time getting to work.

With the help of backs coach Henry Playfair, the 192cm prospect has been focused on mastering the demands and expectations of being a Sydney Swans defender.

“With Henry, it’s all about learning the way each of us in the group plays and how we structure up game day,” Maibaum said.

“The expectation is that we defend with everything we’ve got, to give my man nothing for the entire game, then being switched on enough to provide an option further afield and help out the offence as much I can.

“There’s so much more to it than I first thought.”

After playing mostly forward during his junior football, Maibaum’s switch to defence for his TAC Cup side Eastern Rangers paid dividends.

Selected for Vic Metro in the Under 18 Championships, Maibaum starred and earned All Australian honours as the full-back of the tournament.

The step up to AFL level has, however, been admittedly tough though Maibaum feels privileged to have the likes of Heath Grundy and Dane Rampe in his corner alongside a host of teammates who are only a tap on the shoulder away from some words of wisdom.

“Ramps sets a great example at training. He’s super loud – something I need to work on – and his approach at training is ruthless and that obviously translates to game day,” Maibaum added.

“Reg is a pro, he does everything right and knows the structure from back to front.

“They’re all qualities I want to replicate.

“Even the younger guys like Lewis Melican and Harry Marsh, they know their stuff and are always willing to help.

“It’s a group within a group. Every single one, no matter how young and inexperienced or older and experienced they are, they’re there if I need them.

“Pre-season is hard, probably the hardest thing I’ve ever done. But I’ve probably learned more in the past few months than I did over the last few years so I’m enjoying the challenge.”