Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020

Alex Pearce Fremantle Dockers focus remains locked on the next challenge, even as the ladder-leading Dockers ride a club-record 12-match winning streak and move into Australian Football League premiership favouritism.

Fremantle sit 12-1 and one game clear on top of the ladder under Justin Longmuir, with Pearce set to play his 150th match when the Dockers face Geelong Football Club in Perth next Thursday.

The Dockers’ rise comes during a busy Australian Football League news cycle, including Max King Gold Coast rehab update: St Kilda explain forward’s training switch, as clubs shape their run toward September. Fans can follow official updates through the Australian Football League website.

Pearce Keeps Premiership Dream in Check

Pearce admitted he has spent years picturing the moment of lifting an Australian Football League premiership cup.

But the Fremantle captain said he is trying not to let those thoughts take over during the club’s strongest run in years.

"I don't allow myself to do it too much," Pearce said on Thursday.

"Over the last 13 years I've dreamt about having a premiership for hours and hours. I've done that since I was a kid.

"Less so now, because when I think about it, I go, 'well that (dreaming) is not that important'. I'll focus on what is important, what I can control."

Dockers Stay Grounded at 12-1

Fremantle’s current squad is widely seen as the club’s best, with comparisons to the 2013 grand final team and the 2015 minor premiership side.

Pearce said the team’s “1-0” mantra has helped keep standards steady after each win.

"This is a mantra that helps connect us," Pearce said.

"It connects us to when we rock up the first day back after a game.

"We sort of review that game, learn the lessons, and then it's 'OK, that means nothing, we start at 0-0'.

"It's a nice way to keep us steady."

Tasmania Talk Put Aside

Pearce, who is from Tasmania, said he is pleased the Tasmania Devils will enter the league in 2028.

But the 31-year-old said playing for the new club is not on his mind.

"My thoughts as a Tasmanian, I'm excited for the team to be in," Pearce said.

"But in terms of me playing for that team, it's not something I think about."