As the AFL world gears up for another blockbuster year, clubs across the league have begun returning to pre-season training after the Christmas and New Year break. With muscles being tested, new recruits settling in, and fitness levels rising, there’s plenty for footy fans to be excited about as we edge closer to Round 1 of the 2026 season.
🏉 Training Returns — Behind the Scenes
Players across the competition have hit the track this month, shaking off their time off and kicking off fitness, drills, and team bond sessions in earnest. From Western Bulldogs captain Marcus Bontempelli getting back into the groove to young prospects earning their stripes, this pre-season promises plenty of energy and intrigue.
💬 What Clubs Are Saying
- Western Bulldogs: Players were spotted pushing hard in drills, with plenty of smiles and sweat as they reconnect with teammates and coaching staff after the off-season.
- Young Draft Prospects: A wave of promising young talent has already begun training with AFL clubs as part of their placement blocks — an exciting glimpse at potential future stars.
📌 Injury & Availability Updates
With players returning to rigorous sessions, not all news has been positive. A handful of clubs have issued early injury updates, with some players managing summer niggles or returning from surgery as part of carefully tailored rehab programs. Meanwhile off-field stories — such as Lachie Neale stepping away from leadership roles amid personal challenges — have also shaped the pre-season narrative.
🏆 Looking Forward
With just weeks to go until the 2026 AFL Opening Round, pre-season training will only intensify. Expect more training footage, player interviews, social clips and behind-the-scenes stories as clubs continue to build toward the first bounce of the year.
Whether you’re tracking your club’s training schedule or simply soaking up the social media hype around the league, this pre-season is shaping up to be one worth watching closely. Stay tuned here for regular updates, insights and exclusive highlights!
