The hard work began on Monday for the Western Bulldogs’ first to fourth year players, hungry to to pick-up in preseason where they left off in the 2015 AFL Finals Series.
Midfielder Jack Macrae was one of 20 players to hit the track, with the 22-year-old saying the group was rejuvenated after their off-season break.
“I think we’re really freshened up… (Bevo) is big on coming back with the appetite to really get better and I know I have and hopefully all the other boys have as well.
“This year it’s just a great opportunity to build on what we did over the last 12 months and I think we now know our identity a lot more.
“This year we can really build on what we’ve accomplished so far.”
The Club’s young players undertook several running drills and skills sessions, with Tory Dickson, Shane Biggs and Toby McLean the standouts in the running test.
“A few boys looked really good, Tory Dickson smashed the test we did today… a few really stepped up and look in good nick which is a good start to the pre-season.
“Nathan Hrovat really put on a great performance in the testing today and also Lachie Hunter who had a great finish to the year last year and is looking to push forward again.”
Tom Liberatore also delighted onlookers, with the former best and fairest taking part in his own running drills as he continues his rehabilitation from his ACL injury.
Macrae said the group was excited to have Liberatore back on the field in 2016.
“Looking back on last year at times we forgot that our best and fairest from two years ago wasn’t even playing so we all know what kind of player he is and what he brings on and off the field to us.
“Hopefully next year he comes back as strong as he was and he’s really dug into his rehab which is really impressive.”
“I think he’s just eager to get back into it, after having 12 months off, I know how much the Club means to him and what a great player he is to have around the Club and I think it’s just going to be a really great season for him.”
The remainder of the playing group will return to training on Monday 23 November.
