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[Vicwood]

Port track watch: Lachie Jones used as a midfielder in mach simulation as Travis Boak plays primarily forward
This tough nut was showing his trademark power in a different part of the ground in match simulation, shaping as a move to watch for Power fans.

Simeon Thomas-Wilson
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@Simeon_TW

5 min read
February 5, 2023 - 8:35AM
News Corp Australia Sports Newsroom


Port Adelaide’s prized recruit Jason Horne-Francis had a minor scare at training when he looked to have hurt his leg during match simulation but the Power young gun has avoided injury.
And Brownlow Medallist Ollie Wines is set to return to full training next week in a further boost for the Power.
Horne-Francis impressed throughout match sim at Alberton on Friday, dominating with his bursts of pace in the midfield for the stronger black side – as part of a on-ball brigade that also featured Connor Rozee and Zak Butters.

But his session was ended prematurely after he looked to be in some pain following a tackle.
While he got back to his feet quickly the ex No. 1 draft pick could only really hobble and eventually made his way to the sidelines where he was attended to by trainers.
Horne-Francis told the Power’s medical staff that it was a cork to the area just above his right knee and while it was a bit of a stinger he was fine.

Horne-Francis had only recently returned to full training. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Naomi Jellicoe
After having off-season surgery to decompress arteries behind his knees the Power took him out as a precaution with confidence that Horne-Francis was fine.
In other observations from Friday’s session at Alberton.
• Travis Boak played the majority of the match sim as a half-forward in what looks to be a position change for the Power star.

Boak sat out Monday’s session with illness but was back in action and deployed in the higher position up the ground as Horne-Francis, Rozee and Butters did their thing.
With Orazio Fantasia on the sidelines and on the exercise bikes as he manages some calf tightness, Boak was part of a half-forward line that included Junior Rioli and former housemate Sam Powell-Pepper.
Powell-Pepper, who signed a two-year contract extension with the Power on Thursday, said he still expected Boak to spend time in the midfield.
“It will probably be similar to me but more mid,” Powell-Pepper said.
“Boaky has come back in the best knick he has, he had the best time trial out of anyone so he has come back in elite knick and wherever we can have him we will put him.”

Sam Powell-Pepper says Travis Boak may spend some time forward in 2023. Pic: Roy VanDerVegt
• Wines did plenty of running on the boundary at Alberton ahead of his expected return to full training next week.
The 2021 Brownlow Medallist had surgery on his left knee, with it discovered that there was more damage in it that previously thought.
But he is moving well after his rehab and was able to take part in some small sided games involving handballing at the start of the session.
Powell-Pepper said the prospect of having Wines back was exciting.
“We can’t wait to have Ollie back out there,” he said.
“Obviously he is a big voice around the club and he is one of our best leaders, so he is always around but to have him back out on the track will be amazing.”
Trent Dumont also did some running and some drills as he recovers from a calf injury, while Josh Sinn and Jase Burgoyne have returned to main training this week.

Ollie Wines is progressing well after surgery in 2022. Pic: Roy VanDerVegt
• The Power’s match sim gave some big hints as to who are right in the mix for Ken Hinkley’s 23 come Round 1.
Kane Farrell was in defence for the stronger black side, while Xavier Duursma and Riley Bonner were on the wings for the blacks.
Duursma, who was wearing a non-contact hat after a collision last week, was up against Miles Bergman who started on the white team.
The two swapped teams for some of the match sim, before they were deployed together in the last stanza.
Interestingly Lachie Jones was deployed around the ball for the majority of the match sim.
The young defender, who was used as a pressure forward last year, showed his trademark power in the middle – with a big bump on Butters to the delight of the crowd.
It could be one to keep an eye on for Power fans.

Could the Power unleash Lachie Jones into the midfield in 2023? Picture: PAFC
• Powell-Pepper himself was basking in his new two-year contract extension.
At the end of the 2021 season his future at the Power looked to be at some risk when he was challenged to fix his “troubles in his off-season over the last couple of years”.
This wake-up call on top of Powell-Pepper starting a family, with a new child to soon join daughter Frankie, resulted in the 25-year-old turning his career around.
“The key people in that were Kenny (Ken Hinkley) and Chris Davies, they put the hard word on me,” he said.
“They didn’t abandon me, they stuck by me and I owe them a lot for that and I wanted to prove to them and myself as well that I could do it as well.”
POWELL-PEPPER: I LOVE EVERYTHING ABOUT PORT ADELAIDE
Fan and teammate favourite Sam Powell-Pepper has continued the recent upward trajectory in his career by penning a two-year contract extension with Port Adelaide.
The new deal will keep Powell-Pepper, 25, at Alberton until at least the end of 2025.
It comes off the back of a fine 2022 for Powell-Pepper, in which he played every match for the Power and finished second in the club’s goalkicking standings with a career best 24 majors.
Powell-Pepper’s fine 2022, in which he also played his 100th game for the club, came after the Power turned the blowtorch on the Western Australian by insisting he fixes “troubles in his off-season over the last couple of years” after their 2021 campaign in which he finished as a bit-part player.
This, combined with Powell-Pepper’s love of being a father having welcomed daughter Frankie in March last year, changed his perspective and resulted in him turning his career around and becoming a key part of Ken Hinkley’s side.

I thought SPP was at least 30.

 

[Professor]

KFC SuperCoach 2023: The Phantom’s best mid-price options and value picks in every position
Can’t split the KFC SuperCoach mid-price value in defence? The Phantom puts the popular options head to head and makes the call.

The Phantom

6 min read
February 6, 2023 - 4:03PM
News Corp Australia Sports Newsroom

0 comments




00:36
AFL releases practice match fixtures
AFL: The AFL has released a fixture list for the first weekend of official practice matches in March.
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Welcome to mid-price week of the SuperCoach pre-season.
I know you are excited to be here – everybody loves a bargain.
And there are plenty of them around in 2023.

The key, as it is every year, however, is picking the right ones.
To help you do just that, I’ve brought back The Phantom’s Face-Off. Can’t split a mid-price option? I’m here to help all week – first up, it’s the defenders ($250-$475k).

Elliot Yeo could be a KFC SuperCoach bargain in 2023. Picture: Daniel Wilkins
Elliot Yeo (WC $337,000)
The mid-pricer on every KFC SuperCoach’s mind in some way, Yeo has enjoyed a standout pre-season, training at full speed, and without restriction, since the Christmas break. A fit-and-firing Yeo has been a welcome sight for the Eagles, with the 29-year-old playing just 27 games in the past three years. But in the three seasons before that, Yeo missed just two home-and-away matches and averaged 102, 107 and 107 KFC SuperCoach points in each year respectively. In isolation, on those first numbers, he’s unpickable. On the second lot, he’s a must-have at $337k. Yeo looks set to split his time across half-back and the midfield, with onlookers even suggesting he has his trademark ‘power’ back after a shocking run with injury. He played both roles during that career-best three-year stretch. So what’s it going to be – unpickable or must-have?
Phantom’s verdict – Yes: As a simple yes/no, in isolation, at this stage of the pre-season, it’s a yes from me. But what about…

... v Jack Bowes (Geel $277,500)

You shouldn’t be surprised Bowes has been training with Geelong’s midfield group, because he was drafted as a midfielder – one who impressed against the bigger bodies as a teenager in the NEAFL. But he spent many of his 83 games at the Suns in defence. Then, after injury, a form slump and a stint in the VFL, he was sent packing to the Cats last year. But in that VFL stint, Bowes, again, highlighted what he can do as a midfielder, averaging 27 disposals, 13 contested possessions, seven clearances, six inside 50s, five tackles and 120 SuperCoach points in his final 11 games. Unlike Yeo, however, a fit Bowes isn’t guaranteed a spot in Chris Scott’s premiership-winning Geelong side. But, given the need to fill the Joel Selwood void in the midfield, there’s hope.
Phantom’s verdict – both, but Yeo just in front: I like both. If Yeo and Bowes are named in Round 1, there’s enough upside in both to pick them in your starting side. Bowes could make quick cash and get you to a premium quicker than a rookie – like Demon Jake Bowey did last year. A fit Yeo could – and ‘could’ is still the key word here – be more than that, and that’s why I’d have him ahead.
... v Christian Salem (Melb $390,400)
Just as I was writing about his injury-free 2021 season when he posted 10 KFC SuperCoach tons in his 21 games, news filtered through that Salem has been put on a modified training program. “Christian is currently undergoing treatment for an illness resulted to his thyroid gland,” Melbourne’s Head of Medical Dr Laura Lallanec said on the club’s website.
Phantom’s verdict – Yeo: Before the setback, the price probably put him behind the first few in this discussion, anyway.
ULTIMATE GUIDE: THE BEST PREMIUM OPTIONS ON EVERY LINE

 

[Professor]

Hunter Clark has enjoyed a full pre-season this summer. Picture: Michael Klein
... v Hunter Clark (StK $315,200)
Clark and I go way back, as I’m sure some of you are aware. But I’ve long been worried if St Kilda would ever get the best out of him. Then Lenny Hayes returns to the club and one of the first things he says about his new role as midfield coach is helping Clark reach his ‘full potential’. And, like a few of you out there it seems, I might be ready to go back. The 23-year-old has had a shocking run with injury, playing just 21 of 44 matches and undergoing three different surgeries – facial fracture, AC joint and broken jaw – in the past two years. The good news, however, is Clark is in a good headspace and has enjoyed ‘continuity’ this pre-season. He averaged 82 in his third season in 2020, was St Kilda’s best midfielder – scoring 113 points – against the Giants in Round 1 the following year and averaged 91 over the next seven rounds.
Phantom’s verdict – Yeo but watch Clark: It’s Yeo over Clark here, but keep Clark high on your pre-season watchlist. He might even go past Bowes, if you’re after another in the price range.
... v Nat Fyfe (Fre $313,600)
He’s not a defender, but many KFC SuperCoaches – myself included – have declared it’s Yeo or Nat Fyfe, and not both in 2023. Can you really take the risk on two injury-prone veterans? Sure, the price, along with extra trades, helps, but I think there’s enough other value around to not need them both. Fyfe has played 36 matches in the past three seasons – nine more than Yeo – but his trouble with injury extends further back, with the Docker star missing another 17 home-and-away matches in the previous four seasons. Yeo, however, has never averaged more than 107 points per game. Fyfe has eclipsed the 113-point mark in five different seasons. That was as a full-time Brownlow Medal-winning midfielder, though – something he won’t be in 2023, with a forward-heavy role on the agenda.
Phantom’s verdict – Yeo. Even as a forward, a fit Fyfe will still easily outscore his 60-point price tag, making him a viable KFC SuperCoach selection, despite the role change. But I’m not sure he can reach Yeo’s heights this year, and that’s why I’m going with the Eagle. There’s risk in both, so take the highest potential reward.

Ben Long, right, with former Saints teammate Brad Hill. Picture: Michael Klein
Ben Long (GC $353,900, Fwd) v Jayden Hunt (WC $285,600)
Both look set to line up across half-back for their new clubs in 2023. With Lachie Weller and Connor Budarick working their way back from ACL injuries, Long was recruited by the Suns to help fill the void across half-back – and that was before Wil Powell suffered a hamstring injury just after recovering from ankle surgery. The former Saint has been up-and-down in the past, as his role varied. But in the final round of last season, Long, who failed to score more than 60 in nine of his first 17 games for the year, went big, highlighting his KFC SuperCoach scoring potential in defence, finishing with 27 disposals, seven intercept marks and 142 points. Over in Perth, there’s also a spot for former-Demon Hunt, with the Eagles crying out for a bit of speed and flare on the wide expanses of Optus Stadium. Campbell Chesser will be given every opportunity when ready, and last year’s top draftee Reuben Ginbey is another gifted athlete, but the experienced Hunt is right in the Round 1 mix. Is he cheap enough to overlook the scoring history, though? In the five seasons at Melbourne when he played 16 matches or more, Hunt returned averages of 60, 71, 58, 56 and 52.
Phantom’s verdict – neither. The answer to the question about Hunt’s price is no. I’d wait and hope for an on-field rookie – and there could be a few – instead. I don’t think we can be sure enough about Long’s scoring to pay $353k, either.

Ed Richards is one to watch this pre-season. Picture: Michael Klein
Ed Richards (WB $460,400) – Buy/watch/avoid
More Coverage
SuperCoach Rookie Bible: Expert verdicts, bolters addedWhy stats guru is passing on Daicos, Fyfe in SuperCoachSuperCoach 101: First 11 players every team should pick
At $460k, Richards just fits into the mid-price bracket. He’s not cheap like the others above, but he still could be priced well below his scoring output. The 23-year-old, who finally settled into a role down back at the Bulldogs, is priced at an average of 84 this year. But in the final six home-and-away matches of 2022, Richards really hit his straps, posting five KFC SuperCoach tons and averaging 111 points per game. The dashing left-footer hit the target with 76 of his 99 kicks, and averaged 24 disposals, eight marks and six intercepts to finish the season. Could he also take more kick-ins in 2023 if Caleb Daniel’s part-time midfield role eventuates?
Phantom’s verdict – Watch. The value is obvious – in the numbers and on the eye, as my friend the Hipster said during the off-season. A lot of great options in the next price bracket, so wait and see how the Bulldogs line-up in the pre-season matches.
Inside 50 Newsletter

 

[Professor]

Track watch: Scott Pendlebury forced from track as Christian Salem sidelined with thyroid issue
The Dees skipper is heating up his pre-season, but the former Pies captain was in a spot of bother. See the latest from track watch.

Lauren Wood
Follow

@LaurenHeraldSun

9 min read
February 6, 2023 - 6:07PM
News Corp Australia Sports Newsroom

1 comments




00:36
AFL releases practice match fixtures
AFL: The AFL has released a fixture list for the first weekend of official practice matches in March.
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A Scott Pendlebury injury soured some jubilant scenes at Collingwood training on Monday.
Plus a Dee will be sidelined for an extended period.
Stay tuned for more updates from track watch.

PENDLES TRAINING MISHAP
The sight of a limping Scott Pendlebury just weeks out from round 1 was enough to send a ripple around Olympic Park.
But the Magpies insist their former skipper is fine after sustaining a corked leg at training on Monday.

Scott Pendlebury after injuring his leg late in the session. Picture: Michael Klein

Pendlebury leaves the track early. Picture: Michael Klein
Pendlebury was felled during a match simulation drill in the lengthy session at the club’s base and hobbled away from the main group.
Speaking with club medical staff, the 35-year-old left the track and wasn’t sighted again.
But Collingwood maintained late on Monday that the midfield star would not be hampered as the club eyes its opening round 1 clash with Geelong.

The Pies’ first hit out against an external opponent is set for Friday February 24 when they face Carlton at Ikon Park.
Pendlebury stood down as captain at the end of last season, with defender Darcy Moore announced as his successor last week.
Moore, who was hospitalised in December with a bone infection, embarked on competitive drills and completed the entire session having only recently resumed full running.
MACCA’S BACK
A familiar face hit the track at Olympic Park on Monday morning.
With a freshly-minted club hat dished his way, former Western Bulldogs senior coach Brendan McCartney oversaw drills for more than two hours.
McCartney has been engaged by Collingwood as an external consultant to cast an eye over the team and training, with the ex-Melbourne, Richmond, Geelong and Essendon assistant having joined the club last week after more than three years away from AFL.
Coach Craig McRae was inspired by a recent trip to the United Kingdom where he got a first-hand look at England’s national rugby setup under Australian Eddie Jones, where external figures are often engaged to provide feedback from outside of the inner sanctum.

Brendan McCartney helping out at Collingwood training. Picture: Michael Klein
STEENE MACHINE
Cheers erupted to close training with South Australian Oscar Steene feted as the newest Magpie.
The 19-year-old tall has been training with Collingwood since November and was officially signed on Monday as part of the supplemental selection period.
While Darcy Cameron has been sidelined due to injury and completed light drills, Magpies football boss Graham Wright said he could see Steene playing a “key role” among the likes of Cameron, Mason Cox and Aiden Begg this season.

Oscar Steene celebrates with teammate Jakob Ryan after it was announced to the group he was rookie signed with the last spot on the Pies list. Picture: Michael Klein
“Oscar filled a position of need and has fitted into our environment seamlessly,” Wright said.
“He has shown a good ability to learn and improve his craft, and his self-development is getting better day-by-day.
“We believe Oscar could play a key role in our AFL program this year and into the future.”
The SSP closes on February 15.

Collingwood players mob Oscar Steene after the announcement. Picture: Michael Klein
JAM-PACKED PIES
It was a hot topic on the sidelines on Monday — just how will Craig McRae formulate his midfield?
Tom Mitchell is right in the thick of it, with Pendlebury, Steele Sidebottom, Taylor Adams, Patrick Lipinski, Jack Crisp and the Daicos brothers right there with him.
Speaking of the Daicos boys, reigning rising star winner Nick’s hunger for the ball is palpable in a midfield group that honed its link work on Monday before proper match simulation began.
Forward Jack Ginnivan saw plenty of it, while forward recruit Dan McStay lined up on high-flying defender Jeremy Howe.
Nathan Krueger — who had shoulder surgery in the off-season — spent the session on an exercise bike for the session that had a few interested onlookers including a handful of Melbourne staff who watched on from the hill.

Nick Daicos takes flight.

Jack Ginnivan got lots of ball.

 

[Professor]

DEES TRACK WATCH
GAWN FIT AND FIRING

Melbourne skipper Max Gawn is back to business.

The Demons ruck — who suffered a hamstring injury a fortnight ago — was back in full training at Gosch’s Paddock in a Monday morning session that beat the traffic.

Melbourne took to the track just after 8am with Gawn embarking on full match simulation, including going toe-to-toe with ruck recruit Brodie Grundy.

Max Gawn and Brodie Grundy during Monday’s session at Goschs Paddock. Picture: Michael Klein
PREMIERSHIP DEE SIDELINED

As the team prepared to travel to Seymour and Yea for its community camp, premiership player Christian Salem was restricted to walking laps and mild handball drills and is set to be sidelined as he deals with an ongoing thyroid issue.

The Demons said it was a problem that the 27-year-old has been aware of and managing, with the condition impacting his heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature and weight.

“Christian is currently undergoing treatment for an illness (related) to his thyroid gland,” Melbourne’s head doctor Laura Lallanec said.

“Christian has had a similar issue in the past where his thyroid becomes overactive.

“He will continue to be monitored closely by his specialist and reintegrate into training as his thyroid levels stabilise.”

Christian Salem will not train fully until he overcomes a thyroid issue.
RECRUITS AND STARS ON TRACK

Lachie Hunter — who was traded to the Demons at the end of last season — trained with the midfield group both in the centre against Jack Viney and also on the wing.

Kysaiah Pickett spent time in the middle and up forward, while star ball-winner Clayton Oliver appeared visibly leaner, with the Demons set to take on St Kilda in a match simulation session on February 24 before a practice match against Richmond on Saturday March 4.

Gun Dee Kysaiah Pickett is splitting his midfield and forward time.

New recruit Lachie Hunter settles in on the training track. Picture: Michael Klein
Track watch: Four cubs impress, will Tigers sign rookie?
— Jon Ralph

Richmond premiership stars Tom Lynch and Jack Graham will be fit for the club’s pair of pre-season clashes after overcoming worrying foot injuries that have hampered their pre-seasons.

Tigers football boss Tim Livingstone said on Sunday Lynch (plantar fascia) and Graham (turf toe) would join main training in the next fortnight and were on track for round 1.

Richmond will enter round 1 as the favourites against a Carlton side that broke a long losing streak against the Tigers in last year’s season opener.

SCROLL DOWN FOR THE LATEST NEWS FROM THE TRACK

But as Richmond builds for those pre-season games with Dustin Martin in exceptional shape and dominating the club’s early match simulation, a young draftee will be sidelined for months.

Livingstone told News Corp the club’s first live draft pick in Kaleb Smith (selection 49) will be sidelined for six to eight weeks with foot bone stress that will curtail an exciting few months of training at Punt Road.

The Tigers are hopeful we will once again see the best of Dustin Martin in 2023. Picture: Andrew Henshaw
Richmond used up plenty of draft capital securing GWS midfield pair Tim Taranto and Jacob Hopper but had been enthused by Smith’s breakaway pace and precise ball use.

Damien Hardwick’s Tigers will resume their regular battles with an Alastair Clarkson-coached side in the official match simulation when they take on North Melbourne on Friday February 24 before an official pre-season game on March 4 against Melbourne at Casey Fields.

Lynch’s last act of the 2022 season was kicking the contentious score ruled a behind in the knockout final against Brisbane and after being eased through training Richmond believes he is over his plantar fascia issues.

“Lynchy is progressing well with his rehab,” Livingstone said.

“He will look to begin skills with the main group in the coming weeks. The plan is for him to play game time in practice matches. We are just taking it slowly and carefully and making sure it’s right. We are pretty confident it will be fine. He seems to be running OK and has no issues at the moment.

The Tigers are pleased with how Lynch is progressing through his rehab. (Photo by Jonathan DiMaggio/AFL Photos/AFL Photos via Getty Images)
“Everything is coming along nicely for him and I would almost cut and paste with Jack Graham. We will look to begin skills in coming weeks and game time in practice matches. The plan is that those guys will be available in round 1.”

Martin had a significantly interrupted summer entering the 2022 season as he rehabbed an internal injury, took time away from the club after round 1 and battled multiple hamstring issues.

But the proof of his renewed fitness and motivation has been obvious on the training track in early scrimmages.

“He is training well. He is fit and anyone that has been down to see any of our match sim stuff would see that he’s been playing some terrific footy. He is preparing well,” Livingstone said.

RICHMOND’S SUMMER TRAINING UPDATE

Richmond is yet to decide whether to play two regular ruckmen but is determined to settle down Liam Baker and Noah Balta into defensive roles in their backline alongside Nick Vlastuin, Dylan Grimes, Nathan Broad, Jayden Short and Daniel Rioli.

“It is a challenge for us. Big Ivan Soldo is having a good pre-season, we have him and ‘Nank’ as ruck prospects,” said Livingstone.

“Ben Miller finished off the season well last year and he can give us great flexibility. He can play back, he can play on ball and showed some good signs down forward so we have some options. Noah has been doing most of his training down back as has Liam Baker this pre-season. So we are looking to have a good settled back six down there.”

Liam Baker speaks to the media at Richmond training. Picture: Andrew Henshaw
DEFENDER ON ROAD TO RECOVERY

Josh Gibcus will be back running in weeks after hamstring surgery that will put him out for the early rounds of the season but ex-Roos full back Robbie Tarrant has not missed a beat after his strong back half to the 2022 season.

“He is a terrific guy. He prepares meticulously, a great athlete and he would say himself it took him a little while last year to settle into our system but once he did he played some terrific footy and he gives us great options down there down back depending on match-ups,” Livingstone said.

 

[Professor]

QUARTET OF YOUNG CUBS IMPRESS

Damien Hardwick’s claim that the most exciting part of Richmond’s list was its future has been borne out by strong summers from wingman Sam Banks, half back Tom Brown, midfielder Tyler Sonsie and medium-forward Judson Clarke.

Along with No. 9 pick Gibcus those five players from the 2021 national draft all have huge potential, with Banks much-hyped inside Richmond as a wingman who could have an impact this year.

“Judson Clark got a taste of it last year and did some terrific things in the games he played. He just does everything right and loves being at the club and loves training,” Livingstone said.

“We saw what Josh (Gibcus) did. Tyler Sonsie came in the second half of the season and the second year he is getting a pre-season under his belt which is exciting.

“We have high hopes for Sam Banks and Tom Brown. They are showing exciting signs in the match sim so far and we would love to see them play senior footy this year because they have got real talent.

“Sam has been doing a bit of wing work and runs those patterns well and uses the footy well and Tom Brown can make it over head and can mark it, so he’s been practising mainly across half back.”

Gibcus is currently recovering from hamstring surgery. Picture by Michael Klein
HIGH HOPES FOR LAST YEAR’S DRAFTEES

Richmond selected two national draftees and a pair of rookie selections and while none came before pick 49 (Kaleb Smith) the Tigers still have high hopes for that selection of players.

“To be honest we have been really excited about what they have been able to do thus far. Kaleb will be held up a little bit but he is explosive with the ball, has genuine speed and uses it well,” said Livingstone.

“Seth Campbell (pick 12 in the rookie draft) is a natural goalkicker and clean and has been terrific in his approach, as has Steely Green (pick 55 in the national draft) who attacks the contest with ferocity. He is a bit like ‘Bakes’ (Liam Baker) and was happy to take the number he had when he started. Tylar Young (pick 26 in the rookie draft) has been in our VFL program for a little while and hasn’t put a foot wrong. He has great athleticism for a big guy and he will benefit from having an AFL pre-season at 196cm. We think he may have a future, this young fella.”

Richmond’s 2022 crop of draftees Steely Green, Kaleb Smith, Seth Campbell and Tylar Young are progressing well in their development. Picture by Michael Klein
FINAL SPOT QUERY

The Tigers are not yet set on whether it will use its vacant list spot as ex-Geelong clearance specialist Quinton Narkle and Corowa-Rutherglen forward Kaelan Bradtke push to be listed at Punt Road.

More Coverage
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“We have got until February 15 so it’s a really tough decision,” Livingstone said.

“Both Quinton Narkle and Kaelan Bradtke have been impressive with their work ethic and character, so we can choose one or choose to hold. We are comparing a key with a mid and there is a bit of match sim coming up so we can make a decision when we get closer.”

Inside 50 Newsletter

 

[Shannon]

https://www.codesports.com.au/afl/m...3/news-story/d2880ff46d618a8a7d3cf10a12407f96
Matthew Nicks exclusive interview: Why the Crows coach is welcoming the increased pressure in 2023

Adelaide senior coach Matthew Nicks already holds an unwanted record and is approaching another. But ahead of what looms as a big year for the Crows he says he loves the pressure.

The pressure is ramping up at Adelaide. And Matthew Nicks wouldn’t have it any other way.
The Crows haven’t made finals since 2017, an unprecedented run for the club.


Ever since the losing grand final and then finishing 12th in 2018, the question has been when will the Crows return to the top eight?

Even though Nicks only took charge at West Lakes at the end of 2019 – after the resignation of Don Pyke – there was no honeymoon period.

After the bottoming out that was 2020, and the club’s first ever wooden spoon, the Crows have improved in the past two seasons with finishes of 15th and 14th.

Here is the SC relevant part of the article :-

As does the form of two players in particular on the training track.

Wayne Milera has been a standout,” he said.

“Junior as we call him since I have arrived at the footy club it has been so hard for him to get his body right, very unlucky with injury.

“But he has done a hell of a lot right to get his body right and round out his physical presence and he has a game that is next level.

“So he has been a standout at this point, we still have a little way to go, but we are really pleased to one see him out there but two to see him at the level he is.”

He said Crows fans should be excited about a forgotten duo.

“The Crows family haven’t really seen a lot of him yet but Luke Pedlar is one that I hope will entertain a lot of people with the level of footy he has in him,” Nicks said.

“Similar to Wayne Milera, who just hasn’t really gotten any luck with injury, probably a bit around the base he has been able to build from a fitness point of few and the balance of his body.

“He is such a power athlete, extremely powerful and sometimes that is really hard to tame.

“But he finished off the year extremely well in the SANFL and he has trained the house down at this point.

“I’m a bit of touch wood for guys like that at this point because when different people ask how you are going to perform as a team a lot comes down to where your injuries are happening and what injuries you are getting.

“Some of them are contact injuries and are unavoidable but I’m confident that Luke Pedlar has now done the work with his body that he is strong enough to withstand game after game I just hope we get an opportunity to see that.”

Personally not touching Milera but Pedlar has me very interested - 173K fwd.

Pick 11 in the 2020, had a tough start to his AFL career with injuries.

Draft profile describes him as "perhaps the biggest bull in this draft" - his power & scoreboard impact is separate him from other strong body midfielders :-

https://central.rookieme.com/afl/player/luke-pedlar/

Thoughts Adelaide supporters?

 

[Professor]

West Coast Eagles prized draftee Reuben Ginbey has sights on round one debut, focus on getting ‘AFL ready’
Samantha RogersThe West Australian
Wed, 8 February 2023 8:37PM
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West Coast Eagle Reuben Ginbey is eyeing off a round one debut. Credit: Simon Santi/The West Australian

From first-round pick to round one, prized West Coast draftee Reuben Ginbey has his eyes firmly set on being “AFL ready” should he be called upon for the Eagles season-opener.
The 18-year-old is exceeding the lofty expectations placed on him after being swooped on with the club’s first selection (pick 9) in last year’s draft, leading to suggestions he could make his debut as early as round one.
But Ginbey says his focus is on getting himself up to the standard before thinking about selection.

“In terms of individual goals, at the start of the pre-season it was… to get AFL ready,” Ginbey said.

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“Which means just get my fitness up to standard, skills up to standard and knowledge of the game up to standard.
“I’ve still got a little way to go but hopefully by round one, I can get to my goal of being AFL ready.”
After an availability crisis forced West Coast to field a record 47 players in 2022, the Eagles are set to head into this season with a healthy list - barring any pre-season disasters.
Ginbey says while it might impact his chances of finding a spot in the 22, it’s a much better position for the club to be in.
“It’s still early days and our team is as fit as ever, we’ve got a lot of boys coming back in,” he said.

Reuben Ginby has been tearing up the track. Credit: Simon Santi/The West Australian

“It’s all going really well and everyone’s playing their best footy and trying to put their best foot forward.
“It’s definitely a tough thing but when selection is tougher, it means the team is better.”
As for where he slots into the side, Ginbey said his similarity in build and playing style has seen him play a like-for-like role with Eagles star Elliot Yeo, rotating through the midfield and defence this pre-season.
“I think I play my best footy as a midfielder,” he declared. “Just being a bit taller and being able to use my athleticism.
“But also I can go down back and play the third tall role or a running back if need be.”

West Coast Eagles training. Reuben Ginby. Credit: Simon Santi/The West Australian
If a round one debut doesn’t come to fruition, a fairytale match-up against his childhood hero in Fremantle superstar Nat Fyfe could be on the cards, with the western derby scheduled for round three.
“Us both wearing the number 7, it would be a pretty good picture having me and him next to eachother,” he said.
“He definitely has been an idol of mine growing up and to be able to play against him one day would be awesome.”

 

[Professor]

Three captains an option according to former Fremantle Dockers skipper Shaun McManus

Glen QuartermainThe West Australian
Wed, 8 February 2023 11:00AM
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Glen Quartermain
Former Fremantle captain Shaun McManus has warned of the perils of elevating young players into outright leadership roles too early in their careers.
McManus, who was made co-captain of the Dockers for the 2000 and 2001 seasons at age 24 alongside Adrian Fletcher, believes Alex Pearce should not be discounted to share the Fremantle leadership role with Andrew Brayshaw and/or Caleb Serong.
Pearce, 27, Brayshaw, 23, and Serong, who turned 22 on Thursday, are the three leading contenders to assume the captaincy this season after Nat Fyfe stepped aside on Tuesday after six seasons in the role.
“Andy and Caleb have been so close in that midfield, but Alex Pearce showed last year he is clearly a great leader,” McManus said.
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“The players seemed to rally around him throughout the entire season.
“I know Fyfey came in and played a few games here and there, but it seemed that Alex had the captaincy down pat last year. He can’t be dismissed.
“Everyone keeps talking about Andy as the logicial choice and I have no doubt he will captain the team in his own right and outright at some stage.
“But maybe it is the time for a couple of young guys with the experience of Alex Pearce to be a part of that leadership reign over the next couple of years.”
Pearce captained the Dockers for much of last season in a caretaker capacity with Fyfe restricted to just seven games through injury.
McManus said his own elevation came after coach Damian Drum had moved on the previous captain Chris Bond at the end of the 1999 season so they had the entire summer to audition for the role.

Shaun McManus (left) served as a co-captain. Yes
“We were in pre-season and the opportunity was there for a long time,” McManus recalled.
“The position was open for most of the summer and for me as I went through that summer period it felt like I was growing into that direction and it was something I wanted.
“But I wonder in hindsight if it came a bit too soon for me? I am always wary of young guys going it alone.
“Having said that you have still got Fyfey there and a lot of other leaders like Michael Walters who have been around the traps.”
He said sharing the captaincy duties with Flerther helped alleviate the pressure.
“We were different me and Adrian in a lot of ways, but having someone there to lean on was important and I also had other veteran players around me,” he said.

Nat Fyfe of the Dockers looks upfield during the round 23 AFL match between the Greater Western Sydney Giants and the Fremantle Dockers at Manuka Oval on August 20, 2022 in Canberra, Australia. 2022 AFL Photos
“It consumes a lot more time. You are putting your heart and soul into helping the coaches and helping the club and also helping individuals to become better all the time.
“One of the things I reckon I got wrong was that I didn’t focus solely on making sure my performance was at the top level.
“Maybe the following year (2001) it wasn’t at the level it needed to be because I was consumed in some of the outside stuff that you need to do as a captain.
“I am sure these guys won’t have a problem with that at all, because their performances are first-class, but it is time consuming.
“And it is one of those positions where you have really got to be selfless and your whole being is about making sure everyone else is OK and that you can make them the best possible person that they can be.”
The Dockers may delay a player vote on the captaincy until just a fortnight before their first game.

Peter Bell and Justin Longmuir, coach of the Dockers look at the board at quarter time during the 2020 Marsh Community Series match between the West Coast Eagles and the Fremantle Dockers at HBF Arena on March 07, 2020 in Joondalup, Australia. AFL Photos
The club’s hierarchy will also have a say in who takes over from the dual Brownlow medallist, but football manager Peter Bell said on Wednesday that decision could even run into early March, potentially leaving just days before their round one meeting with St Kilda on March 19.
McManus said he had no doubt Brayshaw and Serong could handle the role, but that Pearce had also earned the right to lead the club.
He pointed to the Sydney Swans who had operated with three captains since 2019 (Josh Kennedy, Dane Rampe and Luke Parker and now Callum Mills, Rampe and Parker).
“The one thing about Andrew is he is a super mature individual. I have no doubt he would still be able to perform at a higher level,” he said.
“The interesting thing with me and Fletch becoming joint captains at the same time at West Coast they had Dean Kemp and then Ben Cousins. They went with an outright Ben Cousins during that period and Ben was a young man.
“Sydney have stayed with the dual captaincy for some time.
“Alex has done an amazing job leading this club, pretty much for most of last year.”

 

[Professor]

Jack Ziebell confirms return to North Melbourne backline as star suffers injury scare
Ed BourkeNCA NewsWire
Wed, 8 February 2023 2:45PM

Jack Ziebell says he has enjoyed an uninterrupted pre-season for the first time in a few years. Mark Stewart Credit: News Corp Australia

Former skipper Jack Ziebell has revealed North Melbourne will swing some major positional changes in 2023, while his successor Jy Simpkin limped from the field during an intraclub match.
The new Kangaroos co-captain came off the ground clutching his hamstring just before halftime during Wednesday’s match simulation and did not return to the game.
Ziebell said he did not think the incident was any cause for concern as players approached the end of an intense fortnight of training at Arden Street.

“I had a bit of a chat to Jy at halftime, and he said he was a little tight in his hammy, so I said, ‘Mate, just don’t bother risking that’,” Ziebell said.
“It’s actually been a really big block for us the last two weeks, so I think today was the last really big main session we’ve got, so there was just a no-risk policy with a few of the boys. I think a few of the boys might not have finished the full session.”

Kangaroos co-captain Jy Simpkin left the track before halftime of North Melbourne’s intraclub game due to hamstring tightness and did not return to the field. Mark Stewart Credit: News Corp Australia
Ziebell said he had “lost a few kilos” in the off-season and completed almost every pre-season session as he pushes towards a return to North’s back six in 2023.
“Every year is a challenge to try and reinvent yourself as a player – try and make yourself stay relevant and beat all the young guys out for a spot,” he said.
“We’ve had a few positional changes, getting some guys back like Ben Cunnington … Will Phillips in the midfield has had a full pre-season, he’s really fit.
“I started down back when (David Noble) was our coach back in 2021, played a little bit forward last year, and will play my role down back a bit more this year, which I’m looking forward to.”
Ziebell said the versatility of fellow defenders Aidan Corr, Ben McKay and new recruit Griffin Logue meant the quartet would all play on a mix of talls and smalls depending on the opposition.

“We’re pretty flexible down there, recruiting Griffin Logue is a big get for us from Freo, he’s a big bloke but he’s very versatile, very athletic … we’ll all probably play different roles, some rebounding, some intercepting,” he said.
A trimmed-down Cam Zurhaar was likely to spend more time in the Roos midfield under new coach Alastair Clarkson, Ziebell said.
“I think we might see that a little bit. Cam has had an outstanding pre-season, he’s starting to get a level of maturity in his game as well … his ability to bring his teammates into the game is something that’s really stood out to me this pre-season,” Ziebell said.
“I’m looking forward to him hopefully getting up the ground a little bit more and more involved in the game, but hopefully he can still have that impact around the goals as well.”
Originally published as Jack Ziebell confirms return to North Melbourne backline as star suffers injury scare

 

[The Saltshaker]

Anyone have this on Bulldogs match sim? Link: Bulldogs Sim

 

[Ratzondix]

Adam Treloar’s road to recovery went up a gear on Tuesday as the midfielder continues to eye a return to full training.
Treloar, 29, has been battling an ankle issue in recent months and had been prevented from training with the main group.
But the midfielder stepped up his bid to play in Round 1, completing the majority of a session in Melbourne’s west that pushed almost three hours in his most physical outing of the summer as his recovery continues.
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Overseen by assistant coaches, the Bulldogs – who remain off their home base at Whitten Oval which is being redeveloped - completed extensive match and running drills and even a game of soccer as a number of key names were back in the mix.

Adam Treloar is pushing to play Round 1. Picture: Michael Klein
Treloar had surgery in September and has been hampered in recent months but is almost back to full training and could eye a berth in one of the Bulldogs’ upcoming practice matches.
The team will play an intraclub match before taking on North Melbourne at Ikon Park on March 4.
The former Magpie and Giant took part in match drills before completing running on the boundary line with other recovering players including Charlie Clarke (back soreness).
Ruckman Tim English is also back in training after a recent adductor scare, while Caleb Daniel - who worked with the midfielders - also completed the majority of the session including plenty of running after recently dealing with back spasms.

Caleb Daniel is getting back close to full fitness. Picture: Michael Klein

Tom Liberatore caused a worry when he limped off the track during match sim. Picture: Michael Klein
NERVOUS MOMENTS
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Key ballwinner Tom Liberatore caused a brief moment of concern when he limped off with a left ankle issue late in the session during a match simulation exercise.
But after a few minutes on the sideline and a couple of run-throughs, the midfielder declared he was right to go and was straight back into the thick of it.
Ryan Gardner remained in the rehab group but his left elbow proved troublesome late in the morning session after he fell awkwardly.

Bailey Smith is back in action, fending off Caleb Daniel during Tuesday’s session. Picture: Michael Klein
BAILEY BACK IN ACTION
The hair and the flair.
Bailey Smith just continues to live up to the hype.
Just weeks after returning from leg soreness, the star Dog impressed with his speed and agility.
He had been on a modified program due to leg soreness in January but completed the entire session at full pace, with his endeavour – particularly in running drills – noted by onlookers.
Smith, 22, had lingering soreness and only returned to more extensive training last week with his workload having been carefully managed.
He watched on for the final match simulation periods on Tuesday but will continue to build towards the season proper.
Top draft pick Jamarra Ugle-Hagan also turned heads with his sharp ball use.
BACKLINE BLITZ
The jostling for spots only continues to heat up down back for the Dogs.
Sam Darcy looked to be training as a defender on Tuesday, while a noticeably fitter Josh Bruce has also been playing down back this pre-season.
Trimmed-down defender Alex Keath’s ball movement and evasion looked slick after a recent ankle complaint, while returning defender Liam Jones is right in the mix for a Round 1 spot.
The race is on.

Sam Darcy clunks a mark. Picture: Michael Klein

Josh Bruce snaps at goal. Picture: Michael Klein
ROUND BALL RIOT
The Bulldogs kicked off their lengthy session with a competitive hitout – of soccer.
And didn’t it get the blood – and banter – flowing.
In what looked to be a bid to encourage some fancy footwork to go with bringing up the intensity level at training, two soccer games ran concurrently at Skinner Reserve prompting a few headers and handy boots among the bunch.
Speedster Cody Weightman led the charge in one game for his teammates to “park the bus”, while Anthony Scott whipped his guernsey over his head in celebration of a goal before channelling European football star Cristiano Ronaldo’s trademark celebration.

Oskar Baker during the soccer warm up game. Picture: Michael Klein

Anthony Scott celebrates a goal. Picture: Michael Klein

 

[Ratzondix]

Pre-season unmasked: Everything about your club’s summer
ADELAIDE
2023 LEADERS

TBC. The Crows haven’t announced their 2023 leadership group yet among rampant speculation that a captaincy change from Rory Sloane could take place.

Sloane headlined a leadership group in 2022 that included Tom Doedee, Ben Keays, Reilly O’Brien and Brodie Smith, with Jordan Dawson elevated to it mid-season.

He is now looming as the one to watch in the race to be the next skipper of the Crows.

INJURY LIST

Paul Seedsman (concussion) — Aside from Seedsman on the inactive list there are no long term injuries at the Crows.

Andrew McPherson (knee) — Underwent surgery in November and is recovering from that this pre-season.

Rory Sloane (knee) — Has been involved in main training but is still recovering from his ACL injury that ended his 2022.

Josh Worrell (hamstring) — Has been working his way back from a hamstring injury.

PRE-SEASON FLYERS

Izak Rankine has seriously impressed with his skill and speed since arriving at West Lakes from Gold Coast.

Wayne Milera and Luke Pedlar have also had strong pre-seasons as they look to put some injury affected years behind them.

Elliott Himmelberg is another player to impress while father-son draftee Max Michalanney has put his hand up for a Round 1 debut.

PRE-SEASON GAINS/MOVES

The Crows are looking at deploying former No. 2 draft pick Riley Thilthorpe more around the ground in the ruck after his first two years in the system as a key forward.

Pedlar has played a lot as a small forward while Milera looks to be locked in at half-back.

Sloane has been deployed on a wing, as a half-forward, half-back and through the midfield as the Crows look to find a position for their captain.

Jake Soligo and Ben Keays have also spent time forward.

PRE-SEASON MATCHES

Internal trial at Richmond Oval, Friday February 17, 4.30pm (SA time).

Match simulation v Fremantle at Victor George Kailis Oval, Friday February 24, 6pm ACST.

Practice Match v West Coast at Mineral Resources Park, Friday March 3, 7.10pm ACST.

ROUND ONE

GWS v Adelaide Crows at Giants Stadium, March 19, 12.40pm ACST.

Riley Thilthorpe, Izak Rankine and Wayne Milera run laps during the pre-season at West Lakes. Picture: Tom Huntley

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BRISBANE LIONS
2023 LEADERS

TBC. Dayne Zorko has put his “hat in the ring” to lead the club again but is not a lock to continue in the role. Defender Harris Andrews, last year’s vice-captain, and midfielder Hugh McCluggage are also candidates.

INJURY LIST

Marcus Adams (concussion) — Not expected to play this season.

Dayne Zorko (hamstring) — Looks set to miss Brisbane’s two upcoming intra-club games.

Darcy Gardiner (shoulder) — Still in rehab and 2-3 weeks away from full training

Jarrod Berry (shoulder) — Still in rehab 1 week away from full training

Kai Lohmann (groin) — Two-three weeks away from full training

Noah Answerth (shoulder) — Still in the rehab group and one-two weeks from full training

Jarryd Lyons (groin) — One week from returning to full training

Carter Michael (shin) — Five weeks away from full training

Joe Daniher (shoulder) — Back in main training and played in Friday night’s match simulation last week.

PRE-SEASON FLYERS

Young gun midfielder Will Ashcroft has turned heads in his first pre-season with football boss Danny Daly rating him close to best on ground in match simulation last week when he swung forward to kick three goals. The father-son selection is poised to make an immediate impact in his debut season. Veteran Daniel Rich has also enjoyed strong pre-season after an injury free summer preparation. Zorko also impressed until his minor hamstring issue.

PRE-SEASON GAINS/MOVES

Former St Kilda defender Darragh Joyce has joined the Lions on a one-year deal, signing on during the pre-season supplemental selection period. The Irishman joins fellow countryman Conor McKenna, who was another off-season acquisition for the Lions.

PRE-SEASON MATCHES

Match simulation — Sydney Swans v Brisbane Lions, Tramway Oval, Friday, February 24, 12pm.

Practice match — Brisbane Lions v Geelong, Brighton Homes Arena, Thursday March 2, 8.10pm.

ROUND ONE

Port Adelaide v Brisbane Lions, Adelaide Oval, March 18, 4.35pm (SA time).

Lachie Neale and new recruit Will Ashcroft, who has been making quite an impact on the training track. Picture: Albert Perez/Getty Images

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CARLTON
2023 LEADERS

Captain — Patrick Cripps

Vice-captains — Jacob Weitering and Sam Walsh

INJURY LIST

Zac Williams (knee) — Ruled out for the 2023 season after rupturing his ACL.

Sam Philp (foot) — No timeline yet placed on his return after undergoing surgery for a foot stress fracture.

Sam Walsh (back) — The midfield gun is likely to miss at least the first month of the season as he works his way back from back surgery.

Jordan Boyd (foot) — Will also miss at least the early part of the season after surgery to repair a foot fracture.

Matthew Cottrell (foot) — Still nursing his navicular stress fracture in a moon boot with no timeline yet on his return.

Jack Martin (calf) — Should be back in full training by next week.

PRE-SEASON FLYERS

The key forward pairing of Harry McKay and Charlie Curnow has benefited from a full and uninterrupted pre-season training together. After his first season at the Blues, track watchers have been impressed with Adam Cerra’s pre-season, while small forward Jesse Motlop has also been one of the standouts over summer. The competition among the wings — Lochie O’Brien, Blake Acres and first-round draft pick Ollie Hollands — has also been hot.

PRE-SEASON GAINS/MOVES

The Blues are considering former Richmond and Gold Coast defender Oleg Markov as a possible cover for Williams after he was placed on the long-term injury list. Markov had trialled at Collingwood for its vacant list spot before it was won by Steene.
PRE-SEASON MATCHES

Match simulation — Carlton v Collingwood, Ikon Park, Friday, February 24, 11am.

Practice match — Sydney Swans v Carlton, Blacktown International Sports Park, Friday March 3, 7.10pm.

ROUND ONE

Richmond v Carlton, MCG, March 16, 7.20pm.

Charlie Curnow will be hoping he can repeat last season’s outstanding haul in front of goal. Picture: Jonathan DiMaggio

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COLLINGWOOD
2023 LEADERS

Captain — Darcy Moore

Vice-captains — Taylor Adams, Jeremy Howe, Brayden Maynard

INJURY LIST

Darcy Moore (bone infection) — Targeting a round one return after recovering from a bone infection.

Nathan Kreuger (shoulder) — Set to miss the early part of the season after a shoulder reconstruction.

Darcy Cameron (hamstring) — Was set to miss a couple of weeks of training after suffering a minor hamstring strain at training last week.

Finlay Macrae (back) — Remains on a modified training load after experiencing stress-related back issue in December.

PRE-SEASON FLYERS

New recruit Tom Mitchell looks set to slot seamlessly into the Magpies’ midfield brigade, looking fit and racking up plenty of the ball at training. Another key midfielder, Adams has shaken off any signs of the groin injury that ended his finals campaign last year and looks in top condition. At the club’s pre-season camp, skipper Moore said Rising Star Nick Daicos and Isaac Quaynor had enjoyed great pre-seasons and were both “flying”.

PRE-SEASON GAINS/MOVES

The Magpies signed 19-year-old Oscar Steene as a rookie to complete the club’s list for 2023. The 201cm West Adelaide ruckman had been training with the Magpies since last November during the AFL’s pre-season supplemental selection period. Off-field, the Magpies appointed premiership player and former leading player agent Craig Kelly as its new chief executive, replacing Mark Anderson.

PRE-SEASON MATCHES

Match simulation — Carlton v Collingwood, Ikon Park, Friday, February 24, 11am.

Practice match — Hawthorn v Collingwood, UTAS, Thursday, March 2, 5.10pm.

ROUND ONE

Geelong v Collingwood, MCG, March 17, 7.40pm.

Josh Daicos tackles Tom Mitchell, who has slotted in effortlessly at Collingwood. Picture: Andrew Henshaw

******************

 

[Ratzondix]

ESSENDON
2023 LEADERS

TBC. Captain since 2017, Dyson Heppell said in December he was “not tied to the role” and was prepared to stand aside if the club wanted to take a new direction. Zach Merrett, Mason Redman and Andrew McGrath are among the other contenders.

INJURY LIST

Matt Guelfi (calf) — Will miss a few weeks of training after suffering a calf strain at training last week.

Elijah Tsatas (knee) — The No. 5 draft pick faces an indefinite period on the sidelines after undergoing surgery to repair a meniscus tear.

Jake Stringer (back soreness) — The Bombers have been cautious and he should be back in full work next week.

Peter Wright (calf) — Back running after a calf scare and expected to take part in the first pre-season hitout.

Sam Weideman (quad) — Resumed running and should also be fit to play in the opening pre-season test.

PRE-SEASON FLYERS

Midfield star Zach Merrett has enjoyed a standout summer, according to track watchers, who have noted how vocal he has been during sessions. Defender Mason Redman has looked sharp building momentum after his brilliant season last year. There is also been some buzz around Archie Perkins and Nic Martin spending more time in the midfield.
PRE-SEASON GAINS/MOVES

West Australian teenager Jake Cleaver has been trialling with the Bombers ahead of the pre-season supplemental selection period deadline on February 15. The Bombers still have one vacant list spot after moving father-son draftee Jayden Davey to the inactive list as he continues his recovery from an ACL injury. Essendon will trial star tall Nik Cox in more of a defensive role along with McGrath, who looks set to play half back.

PRE-SEASON MATCHES

Match simulation — Gold Coast Suns v Essendon, Austworld Centre Oval, Thursday February 23, 4pm.

Practice match — St Kilda v Essendon, RSEA Park, Friday March 3, 4.10pm.

ROUND ONE

Hawthorn v Essendon, MCG, March 19, 3.20pm.

Zach Merrett looks for an opponent further afield during an intra club practice match. Picture: Michael Klein

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FREMANTLE
2023 LEADERS

Captain — TBC

Vice-captain — TBC

INJURY LIST

Corey Wagner (hamstring) — Injured himself during match simulation last month but has been able to run in rehab since.

Brennan Cox (knee) — Still on light duties after falling off his skateboard and picking up a knee minor infection but the Dockers caught it early and he’ll be back in full training soon.

Nathan Wilson (finger) — Broke his finger in a boating accident but is back training with a red non-contact cap on.

PRE-SEASON FLYERS

Fremantle sold the house and farm to get him in purple but Luke Jackson looks set to justify his hefty price tag. Dockers are desperate to unleash his athleticism, versatility and potential. Second-year midfielders Neil Erasmus and Matthew Johnson are pushing for round-one berths. Erasmus played five games in his 2022 debut season, while a pre-season foot injury limited Johnson’s opportunities last year. Both are natural ball winners but are trialling for the Dockers’ vacant wing role to get a look in at selection. Caleb Serong’s skills appear to have gotten even better over summer as he looks to take yet another step forward.

PRE-SEASON GAINS/MOVES

Fremantle are considering adding an extra dimension to their forward line after losing Rory Lobb to the Bulldogs. Gippsland Power tall Liam Serong, the younger brother of star Caleb, was overlooked in the draft after an injury-interrupted year but has shown promise as a marking key position player. Sam Stubbs, who won Perth’s goal kicking last year to catch Fremantle’s eye, is also vying for a spot on the list. Stubbs has been the pick of the two so far, kicking three goals in match simulation last month.

PRE-SEASON MATCHES

Match simulation — Fremantle v Adelaide, Victor George Kailis Oval, Friday, February 24, 6.30pm.

Practice match — Fremantle v Port Adelaide, Fremantle Oval, Thursday March 2, 7.10pm.

ROUND ONE

St Kilda v Fremantle, Marvel Stadium, March 19, 4.40pm.

There will be a change at the top at Fremantle after Nat Fyfe stood down from the captaincy. Picture: Mark Metcalfe/AFL Photos/via Getty Images

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GEELONG
2023 LEADERS

TBC. Midfield star Patrick Dangerfield is considered the favourite to take over from premiership skipper Joel Selwood. Tom Stewart and Mark Blicavs are among the other top candidates.

INJURY LIST

Tom Hawkins (foot) — Has resumed running and is doing some stationary skills and hopes to integrate into training in two weeks. Has not yet been ruled in or out for round one.

Toby Conway (foot) — Won’t be rushed in his recovery from a foot stress fracture.

Shannon Neale (ankle) — Expected to make a return to training in coming weeks after an ankle sprain.

PRE-SEASON FLYERS

Youngsters Ollie Dempsey and Mitch Knevitt have impressed track watchers with their summer form on the track.

PRE-SEASON LIST GAINS/MOVES

Another standout on the track this pre-season, Cats’ recruit Ollie Henry could be set for a positional switch after being trialled in defence over summer. Henry joined the Cats in the off-season from the Magpies where he played as a forward.

PRE-SEASON MATCHES

Match simulation — Geelong v Hawthorn, GMHBA Stadium, Thursday February 23, 4pm.

Practice match — Brisbane Lions v Geelong Cats, Brighton Homes Arena, Thursday March 2, 8.10pm.

ROUND ONE

Geelong v Collingwood, MCG, March 17, 7.40pm.

Superstar forward Tom Hawkins has resumed running after foot surgery. Picture: Mark Wilson

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GOLD COAST SUNS
2023 LEADERS

TBC. The Suns are expected to retain their 2022 leadership of co-captains Touk Miller and Jarrod Witts this season.

INJURY LIST

Wil Powell (hamstring) — Will be sidelined for six to eight weeks after suffering a grade-three hamstring injury.

Ben King (knee) — Targeting a round one return from his ACL injury.

Lachie Weller (knee) — Expected to be available in the early rounds of the season from his ACL injury.

Connor Budarick (knee) — Aiming for a mid-season return from his ACL

PRE-SEASON FLYERS

Club champion Miller has led from the front, while there has been plenty of buzz around the form of young midfielder-forward Sam Flanders on the track this summer. No. 1 draft pick Matt Rowell has been looking more explosive and ready to take another step this year. Track watchers noted he is running better and has been working on his outside game. Recruit Ben Long has been training well in a half-back role.

PRE-SEASON GAINS/MOVES

The Suns last week signed 25-year-old Frankston forward Brodie McLaughlin to its rookie list as part of the pre-season supplemental period. McLaughlin, a 193cm forward, joined Jed Anderson as a SSP signing after the Suns recruited the former Hawthorn and North Melbourne midfielder late last year.

PRE-SEASON MATCHES

Match simulation — Gold Coast Suns v Essendon, Austworld Centre Oval, Thursday February 23, 4pm.

Practice matches — GWS Giants v Gold Coast Suns, Blacktown International Sports Park, Saturday March 4, 12.10pm.

ROUND ONE

Gold Coast Suns v Sydney Swans, Metricon Stadium, March 18, 8pm.

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[Ratzondix]

GWS GIANTS
2023 LEADERS

TBC. The Giants had three co-captains Stephen Coniglio, Toby Greene and Josh Kelly in 2022.

INJURY LIST

Nick Madden (foot) — Faces four months on the sidelines after surgery in December.

Max Gruzewski (knee) — Eight weeks away after knee surgery in December.

PRE-SEASON FLYERS

Last year’s trio of co-captains have all been setting the standard on the track over summer, while forward Brent Daniels has capitalised on a strong pre-season after injury wiped out his 2022 campaign. Recruit Toby Bedford has also made an immediate impact, winning both the club’s time trials. No. 1 draft pick Aaron Cadman has put his name forward for an early season debut, while youngster Finn Callaghan has also bounced back from an injury-hit season last year.

PRACTICE MATCHES

Practice matches — GWS Giants v Gold Coast Suns, Blacktown International Sports Park, Saturday March 4, 12.10pm.

ROUND ONE

GWS Giants v Adelaide, Giants Stadium, March 19, 1.10pm.

******************

HAWTHORN
2023 LEADERS

TBC. Defender James Sicily is the hot tip to succeed retired ruckman Ben McEvoy.

INJURY LIST

Mitch Lewis (knee) — Has started doing some light skills work and the Hawks are hopeful the key forward will be available in the early part of the season after spraining his ACL.

Harry Morrison (hamstring) — Set to be sidelined for another three weeks, but expected to be fit for round one.

PRE-SEASON FLYERS

Runner-up in last year’s best-and-fairest, Jai Newcombe looks set to go to another gear in 2023 on the back of a strong pre-season. Young gun Will Day has added size to his frame as he targets an increased midfield role, while James Worpel has also impressed after a frustrating 2022. Fresh off his new contract, forward Dylan Moore has also enjoyed a strong summer.

PRE-SEASON GAINS/MOVES/WATCH

Former Collingwood midfielder Callum Brown is training with the Hawks as he eyes a spot on the club’s list ahead of the deadline for the pre-season supplemental selection period.

PRACTICE MATCHES

Match simulation — Geelong v Hawthorn, GMHBA Stadium, Thursday February 23, 4pm.

Practice match — Hawthorn v Collingwood, UTAS, Thursday, March 2, 5.10pm.

ROUND ONE

Hawthorn v Essendon, MCG, March 19, 3.20pm.

Jai Newcombe has enjoyed a strong pre-season. Picture: Michael Klein

******************

MELBOURNE
2023 LEADERS

Captain — Max Gawn

Vice-captain — Jack Viney

INJURY LIST

Christian Salem (thyroid) — The backman has been placed on a modified program and will reintegrate into training once his thyroid levels stabilise.

PRE-SEASON FLYERS

Highly-rated second-year forward Jacob Van Rooyen has put his name in the frame for an early-season debut after impressing with his form on the track over summer. Close to making an AFL debut late last season, the 19-year-old has caught the eye with his aerial skills and mobility. Ruck recruit Brodie Grundy has also been one of the Demons’ most impressive trainers over summer, slotting in seamlessly at his new club.

LIST GAINS/MOVES/WATCH

Livewire forward Kysaiah Pickett could be unleashed more in the midfield this season after impressing with his stints on the ball at training over summer. The Demons have had Trent Burgoyne and Kye Turner trialling for a spot on the club’s rookie list during the pre-season supplemental period ahead of next week’s deadline.

PRE-SEASON MATCHES

Match simulation — St Kilda v Melbourne, RSEA Park, Friday February 24, 4pm

Practice match — Melbourne v Richmond, Casey Fields, Sunday March 4, 4.10pm

ROUND ONE

Melbourne v Western Bulldogs, MCG, March 18, 7.25pm

Melbourne youngster Jacob Van Rooyen. Credit: Tess Gellie

******************

NORTH MELBOURNE
2023 LEADERS

Co-captains — Jy Simpkin and Luke McDonald

Leadership group — Ben Cunnington, Nick Larkey, Ben McKay, Jack Ziebell

INJURY LIST

Jy Simpkin (hamstring) — Experienced some tightness at training this week and came off the track early as a precaution, but expected to be back in work next week.

Darcy Tucker (knee) — Still in rehab, building up his running intensity and agility. No timeline on return.

Curtis Taylor (calf) — Building up his training and expected to return to main training in two weeks.

Aidan Corr (calf) — Still building up his training loads and no set date on a return.

George Wardlaw (hamstring strain) — Remains on a modified training program.

Griffin Logue (finger) — Was on lighter duties this week after dislocating his little finger after overcoming his osteitis pubis issues.

Brayden George (knee) — Unlikely to feature this year as he recovers from ACL surgery last August.

PRE-SEASON FLYERS

The Kangaroos’ top draft pick Harry Sheezel has made an impression in his first pre-season at the club. Track watchers are already mentioning the No. 3 draft pick in the calculations for a possible round one debut. Key defender Ben McKay has also been a standout on the track this summer, developing his voice and on-field leadership. Cam Zurhaar fired with five goals in a match simulation last week. Former skipper Ziebell has dropped several kilos as he has worked to get himself in strong shape for 2023.

PRE-SEASON LIST GAINS/MOVES

Three-time premiership Hawk Liam Shiels reunited with his former coach Alastair Clarkson after being lured out of retirement. After originally retiring in August last year after 255 games in 14 seasons at Hawthorn, Shiels landed at Arden St under the pre-season supplemental period rule in December to help Clarkson rebuild the Kangaroos and is already making an impact with his experience at the club.

PRE-SEASON MATCHES

Match simulation — North Melbourne v Richmond, Arden St Oval, Friday February 24, 10am

Practice match — Western Bulldogs v North Melbourne, Ikon Park, Saturday March

ROUND ONE

North Melbourne v West Coast, Marvel Stadium, March 18, 1.45pm

Jy Simpkin in action during a training drill at Arden Street. Picture: Mark Stewart

******************

 

[Ratzondix]

PORT ADELAIDE
2023 LEADERS

TBC. The Power are yet to confirm their leaders for 2023.
But there isn’t expected to be much change from the 2022 group of Tom Jonas as captain and Ollie Wines and Darcy Byrne-Jones as vice-captains.

A younger player such as Connor Rozee or Zak Butters could be in line for more leadership opportunities.

INJURY LIST

Jeremy Finlayson (ankle) — Faces a bit of a race against time to be fit for Round 1 after undergoing surgery on a syndesmosis injury.

Orazio Fantasia (calf) — Has been dealing with calf tightness with Power medical staff very cautious after he didn’t manage any AFL minutes in 2022.

Tom Clurey (knee) — Is on the return from knee surgery, as is Ollie Wines who has joined main training.

Jake Pasini (knee) — Is training as he recovers from an ACL injury.

PRE SEASON FLYERS

Travis Boak shows no sign of slowing down at 34.

He won the time trial in the absence of Karl Amon, now at Hawthorn, to continue his career resurgence.

Rozee has looked impressive in match-sim as has former No. 1 pick Jason Horne-Francis.

Junior Rioli is looking lean after his move from West Coast.

PRE-SEASON GAINS

Boak has been spending time at half-forward as the Power looks to get more younger players in the midfield.

Kane Farrell looks to be a full-time defender now with his classy kicking on his left foot set to be used off half-back.

Horne-Francis has spent an increasing amount of time on the ball, along with Rozee and Butters.

PRE-SEASON MATCHES

Internal trial at Alberton Oval, Friday February 17, 5pm ACST.

Match simulation v West Coast at Mineral Resources Park, February 24, 7.10pm ACST.

Practice Match v Fremantle at Fremantle Oval, Thursday March 2, 6.40pm ACST.

Round One

V Brisbane at Adelaide Oval, March 18, 4.05pm ACST.

Travis Boak has been in sensational form again at Alberton. Picture: Tom Huntley

*****************

RICHMOND
2023 LEADERS

TBC. The Tigers have not confirmed their leaders for this season, but it’s unlikely the club will move away from co-captains Dylan Grimes and Toby Nankervis.

INJURY LIST

Kaleb Smith (foot) — The first-year Tiger will be “off-legs” for six to eight weeks after experiencing some bone stress in his foot.

Josh Gibcus (hamstring) — The young defender is set to miss the first month of the season after undergoing surgery on his hamstring.

Tom Lynch (foot) — The Tigers’ spearhead is expected to be back training with the main group within the next two weeks and should have a run in the club’s pre-season hit-outs.

Jack Graham (toe) — Expected to resume main training in the next two weeks and take part in pre-season games.

PRE-SEASON FLYERS

Shai Bolton was a standout on the track during match simulation this week and is set to form a mouth-watering attacking combination alongside a fit and firing Dustin Martin in her more permanent forward role.

PRE-SEASON LIST GAINS/MOVES

There has been a bit of buzz around a potential forward move for former skipper Trent Cotchin this year, with his teammate Jack Riewoldt dubbing him “Trent Coleman”, but he was back in the thick of he midfield action in match play this week. While Dustin Martin looks to be embracing more of a permanent forward role. Former Cat Quinton Narkle and Corowa-Rutherglen forward Kaelan Bradtke are still training with the Tigers for a final list spot as the end of the pre-season supplemental selection period ends.

PRE-SEASON MATCHES

Match simulation — North Melbourne v Richmond, Arden St Oval, Friday February 24, 10am.

Practice match — Melbourne v Richmond, Casey Fields, Sunday March 4, 4.10pm.

ROUND ONE

Richmond v Carlton, MCG, March 16, 7.20pm.

Richmond’s Shai Bolton works on his goalkicking at Punt Rd. Picture: Michael Klein

******************

ST KILDA
2023 LEADERS

TBC. The Saints are yet to announce their leadership group, but Jack Steele is expected to lead the club again.

INJURY LIST

Matthew Allison (foot) — Faces up to five months on the sidelines after surgery to correct a stress fracture.

Jack Hayes (foot) — Will be out for two months after surgery following a metatarsal break.

Max King (shoulder) — Yet to join in main training but targeting an early-season return.

Olli Hotton (back) — The draftee will miss the first half of the season as he recovers from a back stress fracture.

PRE-SEASON FLYERS

The form of young midfielder Marcus Windhager and forward Mitch Owens has impressed teammates, while defender Callum Wilkie suggested Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera could be “dangerous” with his speed and silky skills out of defence after training across half-back over the summer.

PRE-SEASON GAINS/MOVES

Former Carlton midfielder Liam Stocker found a new home at Moorabbin after joining the Saints via the pre-season supplemental selection period. Stocker was delisted by the Blues at the end of last season. Off-field, the Saints recruited Stephen Silvagni as their new list manager, while executive general manager of football Geoff Walsh has departed the club for family reasons.

PRE-SEASON MATCHES

Match simulation – St Kilda v Melbourne, RSEA Park, Friday February 24, 4pm.

Practice match – St Kilda v Essendon, RSEA Park, Friday March 3, 4.10pm.

ROUND ONE

St Kilda v Fremantle, Marvel Stadium, March 19, 4.40pm.

Injured big man Max King chats with Ross Lyon at Moorrabin Oval. Picture: Darrian Traynor/Getty Images

******************

 

[Ratzondix]

SYDNEY
2023 LEADERS

TBC. Sydney’s three co-captains last year Luke Parker, Callum Mills and Dane Rampe are all expected to be in the leadership frame again this year.

INJURY LIST

Ryan Clarke (hamstring) — Three weeks

Hayden McLean (quad) — Two weeks

Joel Amartey (hamstring) — Two weeks

PRE-SEASON FLYERS

Two of the Swans’ draftees have made a strong impression over the pre-season since arriving at the club. Small forward Jacob Konstanty and midfielder Caleb Mitchell have caught the eye with Rampe declaring the duo had made an “immediate impact”.

PRE-SEASON MATCHES

Match simulation — Sydney Swans v Brisbane Lions, Tramway Oval, Friday, February 24, 12pm.

Practice match — Sydney Swans v Carlton, Blacktown International Sports Park, Friday March 3, 7.10pm.

ROUND ONE

Gold Coast Suns v Sydney Swans, Metricon Stadium, March 18, 8pm.

******************

WESTERN BULLDOGS
2023 LEADERS

TBC. Marcus Bontempelli is expected to be the top dog again, but the club is yet to formally announce its leadership group for this season.

INJURY LIST

Adam Treloar (ankle) — Building his training loads and aiming to take part in the club’s practice game.

Tim O’Brien (hamstring tightness) — Likely to be back in main training in another two weeks.

Charlie Clarke (back) — Still recovering from back soreness and unlikely to be ready until start of the season.

Jedd Busslinger (shoulder) — Still another two months away as he recovers from a shoulder reconstruction.

PRE-SEASON FLYERS

After a disrupted start to the pre-season due to a knee infection, young gun Sam Darcy has made an impact on the track, impressing in match simulation last week. Track watchers have also noted Tom Liberatore’s fitness and work in the midfield, while Cody Weightman has also caught the eye when he has been deployed for bursts in the midfield over summer.

PRE-SEASON GAINS/MOVES

Former Demon Oskar Baker gets another chance to reboot his career at the Whitten Oval after the Bulldogs recruited him as a supplemental selection period signing in December. Baker played 15 games across his five years at the Demons. In positional moves, long-time forward Josh Bruce has made the switch to defence this summer.

PRE-SEASON MATCHES

Practice match — Western Bulldogs v North Melbourne, Ikon Park, Saturday March 4, 1.10pm.

ROUND ONE

Melbourne v Western Bulldogs, MCG, March 18, 7.25pm.

Sam Darcy has shown plenty on the training track. Picture: Michael Klein

******************

WEST COAST
2023 LEADERS

Captain — Luke Shuey

Vice-captains — Jeremy McGovern and Tom Barrass

INJURY LIST

Luke Edwards (quad) — Training away from the main group again after a quad strain.

Jack Petruccelle (ankle) — Club is confident he will play pre-season games after jarring an ankle in match simulation last Friday.

Campbell Chesser (foot) — Not back in full training yet after missing all of last season, being eased back into drills.

Harry Barnett (ankle) — Had a pre-existing injury when drafted last year but progressing well and should join drills in coming weeks.

Rhett Bazzo (compassionate leave) — Back at the club this week after tragic death of mother Kylie but will be given as much time as he needs before joining full training.

PRE-SEASON FLYERS

Nic Naitanui dominated youngsters Bailey Williams and Callum Jamieson in match simulation last week, while Oscar Allen kicked three goals and is back from injury. Therer are plenty of West Coast players who look fitter: Jeremy McGovern, Tim Kelly, Liam Ryan and Elliot Yeo all look in better nick than they were last year. Sam Petrevski-Seton has also impressed the club playing as a forward.

PRE-SEASON GAINS/MOVES

Jayden Hunt has shown a lot of dash in pre-season on a wing and at half back after shifting from Melbourne. The Eagles will return Allen to attack and are trialling skipper Shuey at half back. Petrevski-Seton has played at half forward and Jamaine Jones may also return to the forward line. Draftees Reuben Ginbey, Elijah Hewett and Noah Long have impressed and are in the mix for early opportunity.

PRE-SEASON MATCHES

Match simulation – West Coast v Port Adelaide, Mineral Resources Park, Friday February 24, 7.40pm.

Practice match – West Coast v Adelaide, Mineral Resources Park, Friday March 3, 7.40pm.

ROUND ONE

North Melbourne v West Coast, Marvel Stadium, March 18, 1.45pm.

 

[froffershanners]

ESSENDON
2023 LEADERS

TBC. Captain since 2017, Dyson Heppell said in December he was “not tied to the role” and was prepared to stand aside if the club wanted to take a new direction. Zach Merrett, Mason Redman and Andrew McGrath are among the other contenders.

INJURY LIST

Matt Guelfi (calf) — Will miss a few weeks of training after suffering a calf strain at training last week.

Elijah Tsatas (knee) — The No. 5 draft pick faces an indefinite period on the sidelines after undergoing surgery to repair a meniscus tear.

Jake Stringer (back soreness) — The Bombers have been cautious and he should be back in full work next week.

Peter Wright (calf) — Back running after a calf scare and expected to take part in the first pre-season hitout.

Sam Weideman (quad) — Resumed running and should also be fit to play in the opening pre-season test.

PRE-SEASON FLYERS

Midfield star Zach Merrett has enjoyed a standout summer, according to track watchers, who have noted how vocal he has been during sessions. Defender Mason Redman has looked sharp building momentum after his brilliant season last year. There is also been some buzz around Archie Perkins and Nic Martin spending more time in the midfield.
PRE-SEASON GAINS/MOVES

West Australian teenager Jake Cleaver has been trialling with the Bombers ahead of the pre-season supplemental selection period deadline on February 15. The Bombers still have one vacant list spot after moving father-son draftee Jayden Davey to the inactive list as he continues his recovery from an ACL injury. Essendon will trial star tall Nik Cox in more of a defensive role along with McGrath, who looks set to play half back.

PRE-SEASON MATCHES

Match simulation — Gold Coast Suns v Essendon, Austworld Centre Oval, Thursday February 23, 4pm.

Practice match — St Kilda v Essendon, RSEA Park, Friday March 3, 4.10pm.

ROUND ONE

Hawthorn v Essendon, MCG, March 19, 3.20pm.

Zach Merrett looks for an opponent further afield during an intra club practice match. Picture: Michael Klein

******************

FREMANTLE
2023 LEADERS

Captain — TBC

Vice-captain — TBC

INJURY LIST

Corey Wagner (hamstring) — Injured himself during match simulation last month but has been able to run in rehab since.

Brennan Cox (knee) — Still on light duties after falling off his skateboard and picking up a knee minor infection but the Dockers caught it early and he’ll be back in full training soon.

Nathan Wilson (finger) — Broke his finger in a boating accident but is back training with a red non-contact cap on.

PRE-SEASON FLYERS

Fremantle sold the house and farm to get him in purple but Luke Jackson looks set to justify his hefty price tag. Dockers are desperate to unleash his athleticism, versatility and potential. Second-year midfielders Neil Erasmus and Matthew Johnson are pushing for round-one berths. Erasmus played five games in his 2022 debut season, while a pre-season foot injury limited Johnson’s opportunities last year. Both are natural ball winners but are trialling for the Dockers’ vacant wing role to get a look in at selection. Caleb Serong’s skills appear to have gotten even better over summer as he looks to take yet another step forward.

PRE-SEASON GAINS/MOVES

Fremantle are considering adding an extra dimension to their forward line after losing Rory Lobb to the Bulldogs. Gippsland Power tall Liam Serong, the younger brother of star Caleb, was overlooked in the draft after an injury-interrupted year but has shown promise as a marking key position player. Sam Stubbs, who won Perth’s goal kicking last year to catch Fremantle’s eye, is also vying for a spot on the list. Stubbs has been the pick of the two so far, kicking three goals in match simulation last month.

PRE-SEASON MATCHES

Match simulation — Fremantle v Adelaide, Victor George Kailis Oval, Friday, February 24, 6.30pm.

Practice match — Fremantle v Port Adelaide, Fremantle Oval, Thursday March 2, 7.10pm.

ROUND ONE

St Kilda v Fremantle, Marvel Stadium, March 19, 4.40pm.

There will be a change at the top at Fremantle after Nat Fyfe stood down from the captaincy. Picture: Mark Metcalfe/AFL Photos/via Getty Images

******************

GEELONG
2023 LEADERS

TBC. Midfield star Patrick Dangerfield is considered the favourite to take over from premiership skipper Joel Selwood. Tom Stewart and Mark Blicavs are among the other top candidates.

INJURY LIST

Tom Hawkins (foot) — Has resumed running and is doing some stationary skills and hopes to integrate into training in two weeks. Has not yet been ruled in or out for round one.

Toby Conway (foot) — Won’t be rushed in his recovery from a foot stress fracture.

Shannon Neale (ankle) — Expected to make a return to training in coming weeks after an ankle sprain.

PRE-SEASON FLYERS

Youngsters Ollie Dempsey and Mitch Knevitt have impressed track watchers with their summer form on the track.

PRE-SEASON LIST GAINS/MOVES

Another standout on the track this pre-season, Cats’ recruit Ollie Henry could be set for a positional switch after being trialled in defence over summer. Henry joined the Cats in the off-season from the Magpies where he played as a forward.

PRE-SEASON MATCHES

Match simulation — Geelong v Hawthorn, GMHBA Stadium, Thursday February 23, 4pm.

Practice match — Brisbane Lions v Geelong Cats, Brighton Homes Arena, Thursday March 2, 8.10pm.

ROUND ONE

Geelong v Collingwood, MCG, March 17, 7.40pm.

Superstar forward Tom Hawkins has resumed running after foot surgery. Picture: Mark Wilson

******************

GOLD COAST SUNS
2023 LEADERS

TBC. The Suns are expected to retain their 2022 leadership of co-captains Touk Miller and Jarrod Witts this season.

INJURY LIST

Wil Powell (hamstring) — Will be sidelined for six to eight weeks after suffering a grade-three hamstring injury.

Ben King (knee) — Targeting a round one return from his ACL injury.

Lachie Weller (knee) — Expected to be available in the early rounds of the season from his ACL injury.

Connor Budarick (knee) — Aiming for a mid-season return from his ACL

PRE-SEASON FLYERS

Club champion Miller has led from the front, while there has been plenty of buzz around the form of young midfielder-forward Sam Flanders on the track this summer. No. 1 draft pick Matt Rowell has been looking more explosive and ready to take another step this year. Track watchers noted he is running better and has been working on his outside game. Recruit Ben Long has been training well in a half-back role.

PRE-SEASON GAINS/MOVES

The Suns last week signed 25-year-old Frankston forward Brodie McLaughlin to its rookie list as part of the pre-season supplemental period. McLaughlin, a 193cm forward, joined Jed Anderson as a SSP signing after the Suns recruited the former Hawthorn and North Melbourne midfielder late last year.

PRE-SEASON MATCHES

Match simulation — Gold Coast Suns v Essendon, Austworld Centre Oval, Thursday February 23, 4pm.

Practice matches — GWS Giants v Gold Coast Suns, Blacktown International Sports Park, Saturday March 4, 12.10pm.

ROUND ONE

Gold Coast Suns v Sydney Swans, Metricon Stadium, March 18, 8pm.

******************

That comment on Rowell working on his outside game 👀

Can’t see myself going there but maybe this is the year he finally delivers on his potential.

 

[Vicwood]

That comment on Rowell working on his outside game 👀

Can’t see myself going there but maybe this is the year he finally delivers on his potential.

With a million trades i will give him a run in AFL Fantasy format.

Two years of horrible injuries, last year was definately managed.

Could explode and be a keeper.? Yeap i know........crazy talk.

Remember his rookie year, 171 in his second game of AFL, I mean who does that.?

 

[Russty_]

With a million trades i will give him a run in AFL Fantasy format.

Two years of horrible injuries, last year was definately managed.

Could explode and be a keeper.? Yeap i know........crazy talk.

Remember his rookie year, 171 in his second game of AFL, I mean who does that.?

Gulden's first two games were pretty special, but then he came back to rookie reality pretty quickly.