The 20-year-old, university exercise science student will notch up his 50th senior game today, and his consistent form as a key defender means his importance to the team structure cannot be understated.

Coach Mitch Hills has high praise for the unassuming former Tassie Mariner.

``He's been outstanding and has made his name a little bit after being maybe a third tall down back last year,'' he said.

``This year he has played centre half-back on all the danger players for each team and he has stood up every week which is really good to see.''

Hanson prefers to deflect most of the credit to his teammates who help him out down the back each week.

``I was introduced to the role last year and played it for most of the season and I'm just getting really comfortable with it at the moment which has translated to a better year for me.

``I've just got to make sure I'm consistent throughout the year.

``We've had four from last year's back group come over and the guys around me like Tom Reinmuth and Clinton Drake have been playing well - if the people around you are doing that, then you are going to play some of your better footy.''

Making the state squad this season came as a shock but Hanson said he was enjoying the opportunity to train with the state's best players and was hopeful of making the final team for the first time.

``It would be fantastic to represent the state in that game but at the moment it's not something I'm trying to think too much about, with uni studies and the season ahead for the Storm.''

As for his team's form, Hanson says the Storm has been going really well.

``Obviously we had a fair few of last year's South team come over but the boys who are new to the club have gelled well with us and it's been great really.

``We've only lost two games to the Lonnie teams which we're pretty dirty on, and hopefully we can amend that this weekend.''