Schultz took the first steps in his journey to becoming a regular senior AFL player with Fremantle in 2019, playing seven games and kicking four goals - including two on debut against North Melbourne in round one.
After playing three of the first four games of the season, the 21-year-old was confined to WAFL football with Peel Thunder until he earned a recall in round 19 against the Western Bulldogs.
While Schultz admitted he would have liked to play more games, getting his opportunity was the most pleasing aspect.
“To play the amount of games I did was relieving," he said.
"Trying to have a set goal in your head can be difficult because you'll get down on yourself if you don't get there.
“But at the end of the day every player wants to be playing in the AFL, not in the state league.
"I can always get better than what I have been."
While Schultz was desperate to return to the senior side during his WAFL stint, throughout his 11 games he played several different roles.
After being primarily used as a small forward by former Dockers coach Ross Lyon - who was sacked following their round 22 to Essendon - Schultz began to spend more time through the middle of the ground at state level.
It was proving to be a similar path All-Australian small forward Michael Walters has gone through in his career.
And luckily enough the man affectionately known as "Sonny" had taken Schultz under his wing when he first arrived at the club.
"We're actually the same height and weight so you could say it has been a perfect match," Schultz joked.
"Having "Sonny" show me the way was certainly a major factor in being able to make my debut in round one.
"He is highly respected within the club and we've developed a really good relationship."
While the move was initially a shock for Schultz, he said Western Australia had a lot of similarities to the twin towns.
"The weather is a lot better and the traffic is certainly a lot better than Melbourne," he said.
"Because Perth is so isolated wherever you go everyone knows each other. I think having grown up in that environment helped me settle in a lot quicker."
Now with the Dockers season over, Schultz is making the most of his time off, returning to the twin towns.
And he was quick to return to the Magpies nest helping out with an under 14s training session last week.
“It’s always good to get home especially when you haven’t been back for a while.
“To be able spend some time where I was developed into a footballer is precious.
“Being in the country you’re kind of hidden away from AFL footballers so when you did see one it was always exciting."
Schultz remains contracted with Fremantle for next season.
24°C