Peatling embracing his role as United’s ‘workhorse’

One of the most important things when coming into a new team is establishing a role for yourself.

For Melbourne United Forward Mason Peatling, heading into his first year with the club in NBL21, he leaned upon the aspects of his game that had steered him correctly since he was a junior.

The then Development Player quickly established himself within the Melbourne United rotation thanks to his hustle and energy, which resulted in his teammates honouring him with the moniker of the ‘Workhorse’, or ‘Horse’ for short.

“It was kind of funny how the name sort of stuck,” Peatling said.

“It was a great thing for me to be able to put my stamp on the game, especially as a Development Player.

“I wanted my teammates to have confidence in me that I could help turn the game our way.

“Playing physical, running hard, that’s something that has always been important to me when I play, ever since a young age, so I’m glad that I’m living up to the name that has been bestowed upon me.”

Having proved himself as a key member of Melbourne’s Championship side, NBL22 is set to be a big season for Peatling, who has now been upgraded to a full roster spot and has been spending the off-season honing his skills.

“Our off-season was pretty good; I think every individual on this team gotten something positive out of it.

“For me, it was working on my shot, and putting in some extra efforts with my body, getting back to 100% strength again.”

The results have been clear on the court, with Peatling averaging 10.3 points, 8.3 rebounds and 1.3 blocks in 22-minutes per game so far in the 2021 Hungry Jacks NBL Pre-Season Blitz.

Despite seeing his role and minutes expand heading into NBL22, Peatling remains focussed on simply doing whatever the team needs to repeat its success from last season.

“The needs of the team change every year as the season goes on.

“The role I stepped into last year wasn’t what I expected, so as the needs of the team change this year, I'm sure what the team will need from me will evolve as well.”

The best way to watch Mason’s development this season is to UNITE behind your team and become a Melbourne United Member.