THE drive to compete has always come naturally to Jake Bowey.

Raised in a tight-knit, fiercely determined footy family, the 22-year-old has grown up surrounded by the game—coached by his dad, inspired by his sister, and mentored by a football-obsessed household that made the game a way of life.

“I was a footy nuffie,” Bowey said.

“We’d play three games on a weekend, go to every match we could. I’m still a bit of a nuff—I probably know most players on most teams.”

His upbringing shaped not just his love for the game, but also his mindset—grounded in resilience and hard work. His dad coached him at Highett for most of his junior years (“until I stopped listening at about 16,” he joked), while his aunt, Belinda Bowey, made history as the first woman to play 400 games of footy.

That competitive streak has proven key for Bowey, especially in a game where size is often scrutinised. He has heard all the critiques—but used them as fuel.

“You hear the stories — ‘You’re too small…’” he said.

“But I looked at guys like Caleb Daniel. I never doubted myself, you just learn to fight that bit harder.”

Bowey’s early Melbourne career couldn’t have started much brighter. Seventeen consecutive wins in his first 17 games, including the 2021 premiership—but he’s quick to admit it wasn’t all smooth sailing.

“Getting dropped in my second year was a reality check,” he said.

“Footy’s not always that easy. Times like that put it into perspective. It’s another experience you can put into your back pocket for next time.”

That reset became a turning point. Since then, Bowey’s game has gone to another level—and off-field growth has played a big part in that shift.

Norman, a young pup Bowey picked up from the same litter as his sister’s dog, has become a constant presence in his routine.

“I moved out of home, and picked up Norman,” Bowey said.

Walks, park time, and even the occasional bath (reluctantly) have helped Bowey find balance.

“When you’re at home with Mum and Dad, there’s always chat about footy. It’s hard to switch off,” he said.

“Having a dog has added responsibility, but also given me something outside of footy. You come home after a win or a loss—and they’re just so stoked to see you.”

As Bowey continues to shine in 2025, that perspective is front of mind—alongside a relentless drive to improve.

“I've realised how lucky I am to play AFL for a job,” he said.

“Whether it’s training or a game day, I just want to bring effort."