As the AFL season gets nearer, the Western Bulldogs’ pre-season will heat up – literally – with an intensive training camp on the Sunshine Coast. 

It will mark the sixth year running that the Bulldogs have headed to the region as part of their preparations.

This year’s camp will again include an open training session for fans – on January 26 – before the team heads home on January 31. 

The camp program is set to include a variety of training – including skills, match simulation and gym – alongside a number of team-based activities. 

General Manager of Football, Chris Maple, said the camp has provided plenty of benefit over the years and expected the same for the group in 2020. 

“The training environment and facilities are exceptional and provide a fantastic opportunity for our players to bond together while completing a high volume of football and conditioning training,” Maple said.

“It’s also a great chance to meet our Bulldogs fans in Queensland, and we hope to have a big turnout for our open training session on January 26.” 

For midfielder-forward Toby McLean, the Sunshine Coast component has been a staple of his six pre-seasons as a Bulldog. 

“It’s always a good time of year,” McLean said of the camp.

“It’s a nice 10 days to get away and bond a bit more with the boys in the heat.

“We’re always looking to improve every pre-season, always looking to get stronger and fitter. 

“We’ve got a lot of boys out on the track and it’s a good, competitive environment out there at the moment.”