After being named as the Sydney Swans emergency on eight occasions in early 2014, Dean Towers finally broke through to make his debut at the SCG against Carlton in round 17.

The 24-year-old, who arrived at the club via pick 22 in the 2012 National Draft, went on to play six senior games in 2014 and showed his versatility by playing range of roles for the Swans, including jobs on the half-forward line, on the wing and as the club's substitute player.

After being named as an emergency for the 2014 AFL Grand Final, Towers told sydneyswans.com.au he was pleased with his year but was looking forward to earning more senior games in 2015.

How did you see you season in 2014?

I think it was a pretty consistent year and I’ve just been slowly building on my game and all the things I can improve on. I’m just loving the journey.

You managed to play six senior games this year, which was a great effort. What did you do this season to get that opportunity?

I think being able to play multiple roles and being able to do that well enough helped me play more games as well as gaining the trust to be able to perform on the day

After a year in the NEAFL, how much of a step up was playing senior football this year?

It’s a massive step up from NEAFL. Playing senior footy this year is just going to spur me on for pre-season next year.

Who has helped steer you on the right track this season?

Benny McGlynn is my mentor and he doesn’t really have to say too much to me because you only have to see what he does on the footy field to know what you have to do. The club is full of good mentors and some people give it to you in words and other people give it to you in actions, and that's what Benny does.

While you didn’t play in the Grand Final, you did travel down to Melbourne to experience it and even rode in the parade. What was that like for you?

It was the first Grand Final that I’ve been to in the AFL. I had my mum and dad and my brother there too. It was a bit disappointing on the day, but it was good to be there to watch the boys go out and perform.

You’ve got some time off now. What are your plans for the off-season?

I’m heading away with a few of the boys and when I get back I’ll run a few laps around the park!