A-League: Rookie Lucas Mauragis gunning for starting spot in Jets defence

After securing a youth contract, he was quickly invited to train with the A-League squad. Then came an A-league debut last July, followed by a scholarship which in March was upgrade to a two-year senior deal.

Now the South Coast 19-year-old wants to make a starting spot his own.

The departure of Connor O'Toole to Sydney FC has left a void on the left side of defence.

Mauragis covered for O'Toole at left wingback when the latter was in camp with the Olyroos in the final three games and produced stunning performances despite playing the majority of his football in an attacking role.

"I definitely want that spot," Mauragis said. "Even though Connor has gone, I'm sure there is going to be someone competing for that place too. I think defending is a weakness in my game at the moment, transitioning from a winger. It is something I really want to improve. I have to make sure that I am on top of my game, week in, week out. Make sure I deserve that position."

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Mauragis has come a long way in a short time and has learned a lot.

"The main thing was that it is not about playing as fast as I can," he said. "It was being a bit smarter with what I was doing. I learnt that from playing around the likes of Jason Hoffman, Nigel Boogaard and Nikolai Topor-Stanley. They helped me transition from a bench player to getting starts."

The Australian Profession League confirmed on Friday that the A-League will begin on October 30, with the grand final scheduled for May 28. The W-League kicks off on November 13. Both competitions will pause for international windows.

A-League clubs will have until October 14 to finalise their rosters. The mid-season transfer window opens on January 14 and closes February 10.

The Jets, who have six places open on their roster, have been in pre-season training for three weeks. They are learning a new style under new coach Arthur Papas, one that requires players to be supremely fit.

"It has been really tough," Mauragis said. "The double sessions have taken a toll but I am really enjoying it."

The Jets senior squad will play the youth team at Speers Point on Saturday.

"It's another opportunity to show what I have got,"Mauragis said. "No matter where I am playing or who I am against, I'm always looking to impress."

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