It has been quite a season for Dylan Tombides.
The first-year scholar, who only turned 17 in March, has made his mark at reserve-team level, was included in first-team squad for Sunday's Barclays Premier League visit of Sunderland and is now looking forward to representing Australia at the FIFA U17 World Cup.
The Perth-born striker capped a memorable 2010/11 by being named as the Academy Player of the Year - sponsored by Hermex International Limited - by Academy Director Tony Carr.
"It's been a great season," said Tombides. "I'm very happy with my development so far. It's all about getting a chance and taking it and I think I've done that well this season.
"A lot of hard work has gone in behind the scenes. I spend a lot of time in the gym and when I get home I'm really tired. It's all about going to bed and getting some good sleep and coming back the next morning ready to go.
"It does make a big difference, I feel. I might stay around and do a little extra that could make me a bit quicker or a bit stronger. That's what gets you a little bit further in your life.
"I am very surprised. My Dad has noticed a big difference in my strength and it's good to know that the hard work is paying off."
In a season of many highlights, Tombides picked out the FA Youth Cup fourth-round meeting with Manchester United, the brace he scored in a 3-2 Barclays Premier Reserve League win over Arsenal and being named in the first-team squad for the FA Cup fifth-round visit of Burnley as his standout moments.
"It was nice to walk out at Upton Park in the FA Youth Cup against Manchester United. It was a shame we went out when we did because I don't think we deserved to lose that game.
"Every game I play is always a highlight, but the one I'd probably take is scoring two against Arsenal reserves. A lot of first-team players played so it was another good experience for me."
"Being in the squad against Burnley was a very big thing for me. It was bit disappointing not to be in the final squad for the game, but it was still nice to be there and part of all of it. Being considered for that event was a proud moment for me.
"Training for the first team was both exciting and nerve-wracking. Once you get into it, you're up and running but at first you're just hoping you can get through the session without making youself look like a bit of a mug!
"The coaching staff and players are very nice and kind to you, so it was good to train with them.
"I just went out there and did the best I could. If I fitted in then great, but I know I still have things to work on."
The modest Tombides was quick to praise the influence on his career made by Academy Director Carr and his supportive parents Jim and Tracylee.
"Tony has been a very good coach for me - you've only got to see the players who have come through the Academy. I've only played under him for a season so far, but you can see I have come a long way under his eye, which is a testament to him.
"My family and friends have always been encouraging me, too. I'm very thankful to them because they're always around to help me out and without them I wouldn't be where I am today."
Looking forward, Tombides, who netted nine goals in 32 appearances this season, is eager to continue making his mark for both club and country.
"I'm very happy with what I've been gifted, but it's up to me what I do with it. I can't just think 'I've made it'. I've still got a long way to go and to work very hard.
"I'll obviously start with the youth team next season, but as soon as I progress I'll be very happy. At the same time, my progression means younger players will get a chance in the youth team, which will be very good for them and will help the club as a whole."
Tombides will enjoy a very short break before returning to training to keep himself fit ahead of the FIFA U17 World Cup, which begins in Mexico on 18 June. While Australia are considered outsiders, the young Hammer is confident they will give a good account of themselves.
"It's a big tournament and I'm really looking forward to it. No matter how far we go, it'll be a great event and a good experience for us.
"We have got a lot of things to work on, but I'm confident we'll do all right. We won't be rolled over. Australians don't lie down. We'll always fight to the end and that might get us the last-minute goal that could take us through."
The way his season has gone, you can bet Tombides will be the player who scores it.