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Training Preseason Training Thread - 2026

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The below is the OG faux training report from nearly 9 years ago - often imitated but never surpassed

Carbine Chaos said:
In the absence of Keys I went down for a trundle this morning to check them out on return. Just a few random notes I took down...

  • A lot of running work again, clearly a focus even in the heat.
  • Duggan looked on and was hitting targets left and right. Set for a huge 2017.
  • Giles went up against Vardy in the ruck contests and I'd say that Giles has the inside running at the moment.
  • Mitchell looked a class above the other midfielders bar Priddis. Just knew how to find the footy and wouldn't miss a target all session. Shuey was very quiet and seemed to be taking direction from Mitchell. Doesn't bode well for his captaincy credentials, maybe he doesn't want the gig?
  • Won't say too much about it in case I was just reading too much into it, but Rioli looked as though he'd enjoyed the Christmas break a bit too much. A few of the coaches pulled him aside and they were having quite an animated conversation before Rioli was sent to do laps for the rest of the session. Good news for Le Cras, I suppose.
  • Sheed kicked on his right foot for 80% of the session, I reckon. Nice to see players working on their non-preferred so readily.
  • Petrie looked like he was doing a great job 'coaching' the younger forwards in between the drills. Darling in particular seemed to be following him around.
  • Gee Venables has some skills. He mainly jogged laps before spending the last half hour or so on set shots - curled a few beauties from behind the boundary line at the end for a bit of fun. Hardly saw him miss a kick.
  • What interested me the most was that McGovern split his time between the defenders and the forwards, could be seeing a swingman role in 2017. He was his usual dominant self down back in some match simulation drills before going head-to-head with Mackenzie in a forward role.
  • Bayok is very fast - Cripps was in most of the drills with him and couldn't keep up.
  • Nelson is pale as buggery and still doesn't really have the body shape you'd expect of an AFL player.
  • There was a big bloke who pulled up next to me and I could have sworn it was Suma, but I'm sure I was wrong...
  • Masto was the player picked to kick the goal at the end today and nailed it. Celebrations were huge.
  • No sign of Cole, Parto or Hill. Couldn't tell you why.

Will upload pics later if I have time. Let me know if you have any questions!
Click to expand...

You might wonder why I’ve put this up and stickied it

Because this is the standard all copies should be measured against and it’s a reminder of how high the bar was set

And to hopefully discourage sequels.

If you want to have a crack in my absence, go ahead but if it doesn’t equal the standard set (as judged by me), then expect

• A one week threadban for a first offence
• A two week threadban for a second offence
• A one year threadban for a third offence

Actual training reports, minus discussion, can become found here:

Training - Preseason Training Reports -2025/26

This thread has been setup for training reports only and won’t be open for replies Informative reports from the preseason thread will be copied into this thread so posters have access to the quality work from the likes of LittleFires without wading through pages of general posts
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Last edited:
I’ve attended the vast majority of preseason sessions in the pre-Christmas block so I thought I’d put together a summary of what I’ve seen so far.

Keys has already done a very good job of this in his earlier post, but I figure the more points of view the better. Read as much or as little as you like.

The 1st-4th year players returned to the track on Monday November 10 and kept it reasonably light to start with, with sessions generally lasting under 2 hours on Oval 1 and focusing on fundamentals and smaller-scale ball movement drills. We had good numbers on the track during this initial two-week block, with all senior payers bar Kelly and Starcevich (who finished his season a month after we did) returning earlier than required.

The rest of the squad made their official returns on November 24 along with the new draftees and SSP signings, and the training load progressively increased over the following three weeks out on Jamieson Oval. After our list was finalised we had nearly 50 players on the list meaning numbers on the track were healthy, with fairly normal amount of injuries - generally around a dozen players on clearly separate programs to the rest on any given day.

Players started splitting into line groups more during this period which gave us an indication of where the club sees players playing this season, and the amount of match sim work gradually increased. However there didn’t appear to be any clear ‘A’ or ‘B’ teams just yet, with the players generally evenly spread across the teams. The training block concluded with an almighty 3.5 hour training session on Monday December 15, after which it appears the squad headed down south for a training camp.

I’ll admit I’m not super adept at noticing trends compared to previous years’ preseasons, but here are a few things I’ve definitely noted:
  • Drills involving handballing in congestion have been a big focus throughout the preseason so far and have been a part of most, if not all training sessions
  • Seems to be more high speed running work than usual, typified by the players being made to sprint off the ground for drinks breaks
  • McQualter has been noticeably vocal in the training sessions I’ve watched, providing encouragement and feedback to the players. He’s also not afraid to give the players a clip if a drill or piece of play isn’t to his liking
  • Exercise bikes, row machines and ski erg machines have become a regular part of training sessions for players on managed workloads or those recovering from injury. It may well be that these were used behind closed doors in previous years, but I don’t recall them being a big part of the outdoor training sessions in the past
  • Not something I’ve noticed from the sessions I’ve attended as such, but with the arrival of Phil Merriman the squad has started doing Saturday morning runs in Kings Park - something Fremantle’s players did in previous years under Merriman

Here is a summary of how I’ve seen each player’s preseason going so far. Standouts in green.

1. Willem Duursma: A really smooth mover and has shown flashes of his talent so far without standing out too much. Really does remind me of the Bont with the way he moves. Slightly built but has a good frame to fill out. Injury-free to this point but like all draftees has been managed through the initial pre-Christmas block, occasionally sitting out some drills. Has been training with the mids.

2. Jake Waterman: Hasn’t had the smoothest preseason thus far but seemed to be hitting his strides again towards the end. Was there for day 1 of preseason and was virtually back to full training after his shoulder surgery in May, still wearing strapping on his right shoulder. Finished top 3 in the senior players’ MAS running test but soon after picked up what appeared to me like a minor hamstring injury on Nov 24. Was taken out of full training for a couple of weeks but by the final day he was pretty much back to full fitness and was having an impact in the match sim work.

3. Liam Baker: Similar story to Waterman. Came back earlier than required and was training well initially, coming 4th in the senior players’ MAS running test, until being pulled out of main training on Dec 5 with a hamstring niggle. Spent about a week on light running duties but was ramping things up again by the end. Has trained with the defenders and always a vocal member of the squad, providing encouragement and laughs on the track.

4. Brandon Starcevich: Has slotted in well and is clearly already setting standards on the track. Cuts a chiselled figure out there, trains diligently and on at least one occasion I’ve seen him addressing a group of players to share his knowledge. Eased into training after finishing at Brisbane in late September, but no signs of any concussion issues and has attacked contests with intensity. Has trained with the backs.

5. Josh Lindsay: Impressive start from Lindsay with his foot skills the main highlight. Has pulled off some terrific kicks but made a few mistakes as well, which is only natural for an 18-year-old. Like all draftees he’s been managed through this early stage, but has trained with the defenders so far.

6. Elliot Yeo: I’ll call it a tentatively encouraging pre-Christmas block from Yeo. Was back for day 1 of preseason and trained mostly away from the main group to start, but gradually integrated back into full training as the weeks went on. By early December he was participating in match sim and moving well, though he did miss the last three sessions of the year. Whether this was a sign of a fresh setback or him being given time off for his wedding down south (on Dec 13) remains to be seen.

7. Reuben Ginbey: Has been managed through the pre-Christmas block but has been doing a lot of running and looks in terrific shape. I suspect the club is holding him back from himself at this early stage - he just attacks his training with 100% intensity so it seems like they’re trying to avoid breaking him down early.

8. Elijah Hewett: Hasn’t been a huge standout to me but importantly has remained injury-free and is moving well. Was managed out of a couple of sessions in early December as I suspect the club takes a low-risk approach with his body. Has been training with the mids and hasn’t been super busy in match sim from my perspective, though Phil Merriman has noted him as one of the standout trainers early on which bodes well.

9. Harley Reid: Without wanting to overhype him too much I’m really impressed by what I’m seeing so far from Harley. Started off a little shaky after pulling out of the MAS running test with a calf issue on day 1 of preseason, but the way he’s trained since then has been very encouraging. Occasionally managed out of some drills but by and large has been in full training and visually he looks so much fitter than this time last year. He’s covering the ground well in the match sim work and consistently gets himself involved in the play. Have also noted little things - him providing words of encouragement to others training, guiding the draftees through certain parts of training - which suggest to me that he’s really bought into the group and is invested in the club’s future. Really excited to see what season 3 brings for Harley.

10. Tyler Brockman: Has been fairly anonymous thus far, training with the forwards. Has mostly been in full training but sometimes was managed out of sessions, instead completing his own running program. Hopefully can start to build some momentum after the Christmas break.

11. Tim Kelly: As one of our veterans now Kelly has been eased through this pre-Christmas block. Spent his first week back doing a separate running program, but joined in with the main group in December, sometimes being managed out of drills and instead spending time on the exercise bike. Football-wise he’s tracking fairly well and has been among the better performers in a couple of match sims. Training with the mids.

12. Sam Allen: Has been on light duties so far as the club gets a read on where his body is at following his ACL injury in May. Has been training away from the main group, mainly doing straight-line running and progressing to light change-of-direction work towards the end. Anticipating he’ll slowly integrate into main training over the coming months as he clears the hurdles in his rehab - in his words he’s targeting a return to football “mid-year”.

13. Noah Long: Just plugging away, has put together a solid block of training. Performed well in the MAS running test and hasn’t missed a session. Training with the forwards and has generally been pretty clean in match sim.

14. Liam Duggan: Underwent knee surgery in the off-season so the club has nursed him through this pre-Christmas block. Has often been held out of certain drills or sessions and instead spent a lot of time running laps, kicking or on the exercise bike. Still has participated in at least some match sim and he looks in good shape. Training with the backs.

15. Jamie Cripps: Now the oldest player on our list, Cripps has been managed in a very similar way to Duggan, not doing everything at training but doing enough to keep sharp. Looks in good nick and is just going about his business professionally.

16. Matt Owies: Was one of the senior players who returned to training earlier than required but has spent much of the pre-Christmas block training away from the main group with an undisclosed injury. Started integrating back into the main group towards the end so hopefully he’s back to full fitness by January.

17. Jack Graham: In superb shape, winning the senior players’ MAS running test by a fair margin. Has been in full training, setting standards on the track and playing midfield in match sim. Just a professional and is regularly one of the last to leave the track.

18. Tom McCarthy: Liking what I’m seeing so far from TMac who looks to be eyeing a permanent move to the midfield. Hasn’t missed a session so far and whilst he hasn’t added too much bulk, it seems he’s really gone to work on his running in the off-season. His ability to find space in the match sim work has been a highlight so far.

19. Brady Hough: As he always does, Hough has flown under the radar so far this preseason, just going about his business quietly. He was a bit limited early after shoulder surgery in the off-season, but gradually integrated back into contact work and full training by mid-December. Has trained with the backs so far.

20. Tylar Young: Eased into life as an Eagle following a minor shoulder operation in the off-season, spending his first few sessions spectating or on the exercise bike. He managed to ramp things up pretty quickly though and by the final session he was partially participating in match sim, albeit still limited to non-contact work. Have noted his ability to rebound out of defence, he’s a tidy kick for a key back.

21. Cooper Duff-Tytler: Like many I couldn’t really understand why CDT was rated so highly throughout his draft year, but having watched him up close he couldn’t have been more impressive. His skills are remarkably clean for a man of his size, but something I’ve also noticed is that he seems to have a knack for putting himself in good spots to win the footy - has a strong footy brain I reckon. He’s pretty well-built for an 18-year-old already, so I wouldn’t be surprised if he’s in Round 1 considerations come March. Has been training in a third tall forward/ruck position and whilst he’s been managed with all the other draftees, he looks injury-free.

22. Archer Reid: Has bulked up considerably over the off-season and is a huge unit up close. He’s been training with the forwards so far but has also spent a fair bit of time doing drills with the rucks, and has often played in the ruck during match sim - though it still appears Flynn is ahead of him for that first ruck spot. Hasn’t missed a session and seems determined to fix his set shots up - regularly stays back after the rest have gone inside to get practice in.

23. Ryan Maric: Hasn’t missed a session and looks in good shape, performing strongly in the 1st-4th year players’ MAS running test. Football-wise he’s been training with the backs and seems like someone the team wants to feed the ball. Often pulls off the aggressive kicks - when they come off it opens the game right up but it can also result in costly turnovers.

24. Harvey Johnston: Whopper has probably been in my top 5 standouts so far, loving his work so far. Given the logjam of small defenders already vying for a spot, the club has been training him with the forwards this preseason which he seems to really be embracing. One of the most vocal players out there and has produced some nice plays in match sim with his clean skills and smooth moves. Also regularly one of the last to leave the track, keen to get some extra skill work in after the rest had gone inside. Big year coming for him and he looks to be really switched on so far, If he continues the way he is he’ll certainly be in Round 1 considerations.

25. Matt Flynn: Just plugging along without standing out too much - looks in good running condition and performed quite well in the MAS fitness test. Seems to be the preferred option for the number 1 ruck spot at this stage.

26. Bo Allan: Someone who impressed me early on, Allan looked strong and fit and has been training in a wing role. However around early December he was taken out of contact work with the main group and began sporting a cast on his left wrist, which we later learned was due to a cracked wrist. Fortunately it seems like he’ll be almost back to full fitness by the time the players come back in January.

27. Tom Gross: After a fairly low finish in the MAS running test on Day 1 of preseason, Gross was put through a mountain of running work in that first week back. He did a solo follow-up MAS test a week later where he improved on his time, but unfortunately he was pulled out of training from Nov 24 with what was later reported as a quad issue, spending the following three weeks limited to training on the grandstand stairs and exercise bike. In the final session of the year (Dec 15) he returned to running, so hopefully he’s not limited too much when the players come back next year. Has bulked up in the off-season and looks quite nuggety now.

28. Tom Cole: Now one of our veterans and has just been going about his business professionally so far. Returned to training earlier than required and finished in the top 3 in the senior players’ MAS fitness test. Sometimes managed out of sessions as the club continues to look after his ankle, but has held his own in the match sims.

29. Clay Hall: Has put together a solid block of work so far. Looks to have really worked on his running over the off-season - finished 2nd in the MAS running test and is often at the front of the running groups. Has been playing a mix between wing and inside mid during match sim and looks really committed to earn his spot in the side.

30. Harry Barnett: After partially tearing his PCL in the off-season, Barnett spent the first three weeks of training with a significant knee brace on and doing run throughs away from the main group. However in the last couple of weeks he ditched the brace and began lifting his training loads, progressing to more intense change-of-direction work and joining in with the odd drill with the main group. While he’s been on lighter duties he’s spent a lot of time one-on-one with Nic Naitanui doing tap work exercises.

31. Lucca Grego: Not someone I’ve noticed all that much to be honest. Hasn’t missed a session though and has been training with the defenders. Looks a decent size now and generally a tidy kick.

32. Bailey Williams: Returned earlier than required and did the full session on Day 1 of preseason for the 1st-4th year boys, but soon after was pulled out of any training with what we now know was a groin injury. At the start of December he progressed to stair work and the exercise bike, though as of the final session he was still evidently on an off-legs program. Like Barnett he’s spent a lot of time working with Nic Nat and the other rucks doing stationary tap work while injured.

33. Rhett Bazzo: Hasn’t missed a beat so far this preseason which is a real positive for Rhett. Moving well, looks strong in the running drills and whilst he hasn’t been a huge standout just yet, he’s building a solid foundation to build on in the new year.

34. Jack Williams: Looks fit and has gone to work on his running - was the best-performing tall in the 1st-4th year players’ MAS running test. Had a couple of weeks where his training load was wound back a little, but finished the year in full training. Despite some speculation that he was training with the backs, he has in fact been with the forwards the entire time, occasionally joining the rucks for their drills. Hasn’t been too noticeable in match sim so far.

35. Jobe Shanahan: Liking what I’m seeing from Jobe, who has bulked up over the off-season and now looks an imposing size out there. Looking good in the match sim work up forward, timing his leads well and using his sticky mitts to clunk some nice marks. Really excited by what he could produce next year.

36. Tylah Williams: Has eased into life as an Eagle, with the club managing his training considerably early on. As a result I’ve found it tough to get a read on the type of player he is, but from what I’ve seen he’s agile, skilful and has good goal sense. Has been training with the forwards and like many 18-year-olds is quite slightly built.

37. Malakai Champion: Has been in and out of training early on, most recently appearing to severely injure his knee which fortunately turned out to be a minor MCL strain. Trained fully in the last session of the year so fingers crossed he can stay on the park from January.

38. Hamish Davis: An early standout for mine, Davis has returned to preseason in ripping shape. Won the 1st-4th year players’ MAS fitness test and regularly stays back to do extra skills after the main group has gone inside. Has also been impressive on a wing in match sim with his running patterns and competitiveness. Looks to have added a bit of size too.

39. Fred Rodriguez: For a draftee he’s really well-built and doesn’t look out of place on the track, although he’s been a little quiet in the match sim work so far. Training with the mids but probably behind a few in the inside mid rankings.

40. Deven Robertson: Has been in and out of main training with what I would assume is a shoulder issue - he’s had his right shoulder strapped up at training and he reportedly underwent shoulder surgery in the off-season. Football-wise he’s been training with the mids and hasn’t looked out of place, providing a bigger body among our younger mids.

41. Sandy Brock: Has definitely added some size in the off-season. Other than that I haven’t noticed him too much - has been in full training and have noted him staying back for extra skills at the end of sessions a couple of times.

42. Harry Edwards: Hasn’t missed a session which is a big positive for Harry given his previous injury woes. Unsurprisingly running isn’t his strong point but visually he looks fit and has been competing well in the match sim work playing as the deepest defender.

43. Tyrell Dewar: Started the preseason limited to a spectating role with an undisclosed injury issue, but gradually reintegrated back into main training over the following weeks. Was almost in full training again by the final session but still occasionally sat out some of the contact work. Has been training with the defenders and playing off half-back in match sim, occasionally pushing up to a wing. Hopefully fully fit come January and he can build some confidence in his new role.

44. Jack Hutchinson: Was in full training for the first couple of weeks of preseason, spending his time training with the midfield group and looking in good nick. Unfortunately though on Dec 3 he was pulled out of main training, spending the next week training on the grandstand stairs or exercise bike, and the following week he didn’t do any training at all after developing a stress fracture in his ankle. According to the club he won’t be running again until late February, and from there it’s probably at least 6-8 weeks before a return to play - so looks likely to miss the at least the first month of the season.

45. Fin Macrae: Has mostly trained fully and spends his time with the midfield group, though of the three SSP recruits Macrae is probably the one I’ve noticed least. Finished 5th in the senior players’ MAS running test so is clearly very aerobically fit. Also looks a bit bigger than I expected.

46. Jacob Newton: Has been training with the forwards and looks very fit, finishing strongly in the MAS fitness test. Was looking good early days but had his training loads pulled back in December, completing a lot of running instead. Hopefully it’s nothing too bad and he’s back training fully in January,

48. Harry Schoenberg: I wasn’t sure what too make of his signing initially, but I’ve actually quite liked what I’ve seen from Schoenberg so far. Has some pace and kicked a great running goal in one of the match sims which caught my eye. Probably been the most impressive of our SSP signings for mine.


Archie Watt: Signed to our WAFL side for next year out of Kyabram in Victoria, Watt has been training with the side since the first day of preseason and has somehow already become a board meme. Jokes aside he hasn’t looked out of place at all, has good skills and pace. Has been training through defence and midfield and should be a good addition for the Beagles next year.

Ash Johnson: Has also signed with the WAFL Eagles after being delisted by Collingwood last year and joined the group for a few sessions, though Nov 24 was the last day I saw him out there. Unclear whether he’s injured or why he disappeared, though he also looms as a key player for the Beagles this season.

Garrison Kenh: An Eagles NGA product eligible for the 2026 draft, Kenh has made one appearance on the track so far - on Dec 3, joining Tylah Williams briefly for a kick in one of the lighter Wednesday sessions. Hard to get a read on him from that but I will say he looks very fit for his age.

Harry Taylor: Last we heard from the club Taylor was in a “Performance Leadership Consultant” role, though he’s been out there almost every session I’ve watched, often coaching the talls through positioning and contested marking situations. Also often runs alongside the taller players in the running drills, providing moral support. Regardless of whether he’s an actual coach his insights will be invaluable for our key position players.

Nic Naitanui: Similar to Taylor, Nic also isn’t in an official full-time role but has spent a lot of time so far this preseason doing drills with the rucks, following the departure of our former ruck coach Ryan Turnbull. Generally coaches in the bigger Monday and Friday sessions and it’s great to have him sharing his knowledge too.

There have been some AFLW players doing their off-season training sessions alongside the men’s sessions - some I’ve seen include Beth Schilling, Lucia Painter, Sarah Lakay, Charlotte Riggs and Courtney Lindgren.

Obviously this is a very comprehensive write-up for just 5 weeks of training, but there you have it.

I don’t think I’ll be able to attend as many sessions in the new year, but we’ll see how we go. Merry Christmas!
 

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LittleFires said:
I’ve attended the vast majority of preseason sessions in the pre-Christmas block so I thought I’d put together a summary of what I’ve seen so far.

Keys has already done a very good job of this in his earlier post, but I figure the more points of view the better. Read as much or as little as you like.

The 1st-4th year players returned to the track on Monday November 10 and kept it reasonably light to start with, with sessions generally lasting under 2 hours on Oval 1 and focusing on fundamentals and smaller-scale ball movement drills. We had good numbers on the track during this initial two-week block, with all senior payers bar Kelly and Starcevich (who finished his season a month after we did) returning earlier than required.

The rest of the squad made their official returns on November 24 along with the new draftees and SSP signings, and the training load progressively increased over the following three weeks out on Jamieson Oval. After our list was finalised we had nearly 50 players on the list meaning numbers on the track were healthy, with fairly normal amount of injuries - generally around a dozen players on clearly separate programs to the rest on any given day.

Players started splitting into line groups more during this period which gave us an indication of where the club sees players playing this season, and the amount of match sim work gradually increased. However there didn’t appear to be any clear ‘A’ or ‘B’ teams just yet, with the players generally evenly spread across the teams. The training block concluded with an almighty 3.5 hour training session on Monday December 15, after which it appears the squad headed down south for a training camp.

I’ll admit I’m not super adept at noticing trends compared to previous years’ preseasons, but here are a few things I’ve definitely noted:
  • Drills involving handballing in congestion have been a big focus throughout the preseason so far and have been a part of most, if not all training sessions
  • Seems to be more high speed running work than usual, typified by the players being made to sprint off the ground for drinks breaks
  • McQualter has been noticeably vocal in the training sessions I’ve watched, providing encouragement and feedback to the players. He’s also not afraid to give the players a clip if a drill or piece of play isn’t to his liking
  • Exercise bikes, row machines and ski erg machines have become a regular part of training sessions for players on managed workloads or those recovering from injury. It may well be that these were used behind closed doors in previous years, but I don’t recall them being a big part of the outdoor training sessions in the past
  • Not something I’ve noticed from the sessions I’ve attended as such, but with the arrival of Phil Merriman the squad has started doing Saturday morning runs in Kings Park - something Fremantle’s players did in previous years under Merriman

Here is a summary of how I’ve seen each player’s preseason going so far. Standouts in green.

1. Willem Duursma: A really smooth mover and has shown flashes of his talent so far without standing out too much. Really does remind me of the Bont with the way he moves. Slightly built but has a good frame to fill out. Injury-free to this point but like all draftees has been managed through the initial pre-Christmas block, occasionally sitting out some drills. Has been training with the mids.

2. Jake Waterman: Hasn’t had the smoothest preseason thus far but seemed to be hitting his strides again towards the end. Was there for day 1 of preseason and was virtually back to full training after his shoulder surgery in May, still wearing strapping on his right shoulder. Finished top 3 in the senior players’ MAS running test but soon after picked up what appeared to me like a minor hamstring injury on Nov 24. Was taken out of full training for a couple of weeks but by the final day he was pretty much back to full fitness and was having an impact in the match sim work.

3. Liam Baker: Similar story to Waterman. Came back earlier than required and was training well initially, coming 4th in the senior players’ MAS running test, until being pulled out of main training on Dec 5 with a hamstring niggle. Spent about a week on light running duties but was ramping things up again by the end. Has trained with the defenders and always a vocal member of the squad, providing encouragement and laughs on the track.

4. Brandon Starcevich: Has slotted in well and is clearly already setting standards on the track. Cuts a chiselled figure out there, trains diligently and on at least one occasion I’ve seen him addressing a group of players to share his knowledge. Eased into training after finishing at Brisbane in late September, but no signs of any concussion issues and has attacked contests with intensity. Has trained with the backs.

5. Josh Lindsay: Impressive start from Lindsay with his foot skills the main highlight. Has pulled off some terrific kicks but made a few mistakes as well, which is only natural for an 18-year-old. Like all draftees he’s been managed through this early stage, but has trained with the defenders so far.

6. Elliot Yeo: I’ll call it a tentatively encouraging pre-Christmas block from Yeo. Was back for day 1 of preseason and trained mostly away from the main group to start, but gradually integrated back into full training as the weeks went on. By early December he was participating in match sim and moving well, though he did miss the last three sessions of the year. Whether this was a sign of a fresh setback or him being given time off for his wedding down south (on Dec 13) remains to be seen.

7. Reuben Ginbey: Has been managed through the pre-Christmas block but has been doing a lot of running and looks in terrific shape. I suspect the club is holding him back from himself at this early stage - he just attacks his training with 100% intensity so it seems like they’re trying to avoid breaking him down early.

8. Elijah Hewett: Hasn’t been a huge standout to me but importantly has remained injury-free and is moving well. Was managed out of a couple of sessions in early December as I suspect the club takes a low-risk approach with his body. Has been training with the mids and hasn’t been super busy in match sim from my perspective, though Phil Merriman has noted him as one of the standout trainers early on which bodes well.

9. Harley Reid: Without wanting to overhype him too much I’m really impressed by what I’m seeing so far from Harley. Started off a little shaky after pulling out of the MAS running test with a calf issue on day 1 of preseason, but the way he’s trained since then has been very encouraging. Occasionally managed out of some drills but by and large has been in full training and visually he looks so much fitter than this time last year. He’s covering the ground well in the match sim work and consistently gets himself involved in the play. Have also noted little things - him providing words of encouragement to others training, guiding the draftees through certain parts of training - which suggest to me that he’s really bought into the group and is invested in the club’s future. Really excited to see what season 3 brings for Harley.

10. Tyler Brockman: Has been fairly anonymous thus far, training with the forwards. Has mostly been in full training but sometimes was managed out of sessions, instead completing his own running program. Hopefully can start to build some momentum after the Christmas break.

11. Tim Kelly: As one of our veterans now Kelly has been eased through this pre-Christmas block. Spent his first week back doing a separate running program, but joined in with the main group in December, sometimes being managed out of drills and instead spending time on the exercise bike. Football-wise he’s tracking fairly well and has been among the better performers in a couple of match sims. Training with the mids.

12. Sam Allen: Has been on light duties so far as the club gets a read on where his body is at following his ACL injury in May. Has been training away from the main group, mainly doing straight-line running and progressing to light change-of-direction work towards the end. Anticipating he’ll slowly integrate into main training over the coming months as he clears the hurdles in his rehab - in his words he’s targeting a return to football “mid-year”.

13. Noah Long: Just plugging away, has put together a solid block of training. Performed well in the MAS running test and hasn’t missed a session. Training with the forwards and has generally been pretty clean in match sim.

14. Liam Duggan: Underwent knee surgery in the off-season so the club has nursed him through this pre-Christmas block. Has often been held out of certain drills or sessions and instead spent a lot of time running laps, kicking or on the exercise bike. Still has participated in at least some match sim and he looks in good shape. Training with the backs.

15. Jamie Cripps: Now the oldest player on our list, Cripps has been managed in a very similar way to Duggan, not doing everything at training but doing enough to keep sharp. Looks in good nick and is just going about his business professionally.

16. Matt Owies: Was one of the senior players who returned to training earlier than required but has spent much of the pre-Christmas block training away from the main group with an undisclosed injury. Started integrating back into the main group towards the end so hopefully he’s back to full fitness by January.

17. Jack Graham: In superb shape, winning the senior players’ MAS running test by a fair margin. Has been in full training, setting standards on the track and playing midfield in match sim. Just a professional and is regularly one of the last to leave the track.

18. Tom McCarthy: Liking what I’m seeing so far from TMac who looks to be eyeing a permanent move to the midfield. Hasn’t missed a session so far and whilst he hasn’t added too much bulk, it seems he’s really gone to work on his running in the off-season. His ability to find space in the match sim work has been a highlight so far.

19. Brady Hough: As he always does, Hough has flown under the radar so far this preseason, just going about his business quietly. He was a bit limited early after shoulder surgery in the off-season, but gradually integrated back into contact work and full training by mid-December. Has trained with the backs so far.

20. Tylar Young: Eased into life as an Eagle following a minor shoulder operation in the off-season, spending his first few sessions spectating or on the exercise bike. He managed to ramp things up pretty quickly though and by the final session he was partially participating in match sim, albeit still limited to non-contact work. Have noted his ability to rebound out of defence, he’s a tidy kick for a key back.

21. Cooper Duff-Tytler: Like many I couldn’t really understand why CDT was rated so highly throughout his draft year, but having watched him up close he couldn’t have been more impressive. His skills are remarkably clean for a man of his size, but something I’ve also noticed is that he seems to have a knack for putting himself in good spots to win the footy - has a strong footy brain I reckon. He’s pretty well-built for an 18-year-old already, so I wouldn’t be surprised if he’s in Round 1 considerations come March. Has been training in a third tall forward/ruck position and whilst he’s been managed with all the other draftees, he looks injury-free.

22. Archer Reid: Has bulked up considerably over the off-season and is a huge unit up close. He’s been training with the forwards so far but has also spent a fair bit of time doing drills with the rucks, and has often played in the ruck during match sim - though it still appears Flynn is ahead of him for that first ruck spot. Hasn’t missed a session and seems determined to fix his set shots up - regularly stays back after the rest have gone inside to get practice in.

23. Ryan Maric: Hasn’t missed a session and looks in good shape, performing strongly in the 1st-4th year players’ MAS running test. Football-wise he’s been training with the backs and seems like someone the team wants to feed the ball. Often pulls off the aggressive kicks - when they come off it opens the game right up but it can also result in costly turnovers.

24. Harvey Johnston: Whopper has probably been in my top 5 standouts so far, loving his work so far. Given the logjam of small defenders already vying for a spot, the club has been training him with the forwards this preseason which he seems to really be embracing. One of the most vocal players out there and has produced some nice plays in match sim with his clean skills and smooth moves. Also regularly one of the last to leave the track, keen to get some extra skill work in after the rest had gone inside. Big year coming for him and he looks to be really switched on so far, If he continues the way he is he’ll certainly be in Round 1 considerations.

25. Matt Flynn: Just plugging along without standing out too much - looks in good running condition and performed quite well in the MAS fitness test. Seems to be the preferred option for the number 1 ruck spot at this stage.

26. Bo Allan: Someone who impressed me early on, Allan looked strong and fit and has been training in a wing role. However around early December he was taken out of contact work with the main group and began sporting a cast on his left wrist, which we later learned was due to a cracked wrist. Fortunately it seems like he’ll be almost back to full fitness by the time the players come back in January.

27. Tom Gross: After a fairly low finish in the MAS running test on Day 1 of preseason, Gross was put through a mountain of running work in that first week back. He did a solo follow-up MAS test a week later where he improved on his time, but unfortunately he was pulled out of training from Nov 24 with what was later reported as a quad issue, spending the following three weeks limited to training on the grandstand stairs and exercise bike. In the final session of the year (Dec 15) he returned to running, so hopefully he’s not limited too much when the players come back next year. Has bulked up in the off-season and looks quite nuggety now.

28. Tom Cole: Now one of our veterans and has just been going about his business professionally so far. Returned to training earlier than required and finished in the top 3 in the senior players’ MAS fitness test. Sometimes managed out of sessions as the club continues to look after his ankle, but has held his own in the match sims.

29. Clay Hall: Has put together a solid block of work so far. Looks to have really worked on his running over the off-season - finished 2nd in the MAS running test and is often at the front of the running groups. Has been playing a mix between wing and inside mid during match sim and looks really committed to earn his spot in the side.

30. Harry Barnett: After partially tearing his PCL in the off-season, Barnett spent the first three weeks of training with a significant knee brace on and doing run throughs away from the main group. However in the last couple of weeks he ditched the brace and began lifting his training loads, progressing to more intense change-of-direction work and joining in with the odd drill with the main group. While he’s been on lighter duties he’s spent a lot of time one-on-one with Nic Naitanui doing tap work exercises.

31. Lucca Grego: Not someone I’ve noticed all that much to be honest. Hasn’t missed a session though and has been training with the defenders. Looks a decent size now and generally a tidy kick.

32. Bailey Williams: Returned earlier than required and did the full session on Day 1 of preseason for the 1st-4th year boys, but soon after was pulled out of any training with what we now know was a groin injury. At the start of December he progressed to stair work and the exercise bike, though as of the final session he was still evidently on an off-legs program. Like Barnett he’s spent a lot of time working with Nic Nat and the other rucks doing stationary tap work while injured.

33. Rhett Bazzo: Hasn’t missed a beat so far this preseason which is a real positive for Rhett. Moving well, looks strong in the running drills and whilst he hasn’t been a huge standout just yet, he’s building a solid foundation to build on in the new year.

34. Jack Williams: Looks fit and has gone to work on his running - was the best-performing tall in the 1st-4th year players’ MAS running test. Had a couple of weeks where his training load was wound back a little, but finished the year in full training. Despite some speculation that he was training with the backs, he has in fact been with the forwards the entire time, occasionally joining the rucks for their drills. Hasn’t been too noticeable in match sim so far.

35. Jobe Shanahan: Liking what I’m seeing from Jobe, who has bulked up over the off-season and now looks an imposing size out there. Looking good in the match sim work up forward, timing his leads well and using his sticky mitts to clunk some nice marks. Really excited by what he could produce next year.

36. Tylah Williams: Has eased into life as an Eagle, with the club managing his training considerably early on. As a result I’ve found it tough to get a read on the type of player he is, but from what I’ve seen he’s agile, skilful and has good goal sense. Has been training with the forwards and like many 18-year-olds is quite slightly built.

37. Malakai Champion: Has been in and out of training early on, most recently appearing to severely injure his knee which fortunately turned out to be a minor MCL strain. Trained fully in the last session of the year so fingers crossed he can stay on the park from January.

38. Hamish Davis: An early standout for mine, Davis has returned to preseason in ripping shape. Won the 1st-4th year players’ MAS fitness test and regularly stays back to do extra skills after the main group has gone inside. Has also been impressive on a wing in match sim with his running patterns and competitiveness. Looks to have added a bit of size too.

39. Fred Rodriguez: For a draftee he’s really well-built and doesn’t look out of place on the track, although he’s been a little quiet in the match sim work so far. Training with the mids but probably behind a few in the inside mid rankings.

40. Deven Robertson: Has been in and out of main training with what I would assume is a shoulder issue - he’s had his right shoulder strapped up at training and he reportedly underwent shoulder surgery in the off-season. Football-wise he’s been training with the mids and hasn’t looked out of place, providing a bigger body among our younger mids.

41. Sandy Brock: Has definitely added some size in the off-season. Other than that I haven’t noticed him too much - has been in full training and have noted him staying back for extra skills at the end of sessions a couple of times.

42. Harry Edwards: Hasn’t missed a session which is a big positive for Harry given his previous injury woes. Unsurprisingly running isn’t his strong point but visually he looks fit and has been competing well in the match sim work playing as the deepest defender.

43. Tyrell Dewar: Started the preseason limited to a spectating role with an undisclosed injury issue, but gradually reintegrated back into main training over the following weeks. Was almost in full training again by the final session but still occasionally sat out some of the contact work. Has been training with the defenders and playing off half-back in match sim, occasionally pushing up to a wing. Hopefully fully fit come January and he can build some confidence in his new role.

44. Jack Hutchinson: Was in full training for the first couple of weeks of preseason, spending his time training with the midfield group and looking in good nick. Unfortunately though on Dec 3 he was pulled out of main training, spending the next week training on the grandstand stairs or exercise bike, and the following week he didn’t do any training at all after developing a stress fracture in his ankle. According to the club he won’t be running again until late February, and from there it’s probably at least 6-8 weeks before a return to play - so looks likely to miss the at least the first month of the season.

45. Fin Macrae: Has mostly trained fully and spends his time with the midfield group, though of the three SSP recruits Macrae is probably the one I’ve noticed least. Finished 5th in the senior players’ MAS running test so is clearly very aerobically fit. Also looks a bit bigger than I expected.

46. Jacob Newton: Has been training with the forwards and looks very fit, finishing strongly in the MAS fitness test. Was looking good early days but had his training loads pulled back in December, completing a lot of running instead. Hopefully it’s nothing too bad and he’s back training fully in January,

48. Harry Schoenberg: I wasn’t sure what too make of his signing initially, but I’ve actually quite liked what I’ve seen from Schoenberg so far. Has some pace and kicked a great running goal in one of the match sims which caught my eye. Probably been the most impressive of our SSP signings for mine.


Archie Watt: Signed to our WAFL side for next year out of Kyabram in Victoria, Watt has been training with the side since the first day of preseason and has somehow already become a board meme. Jokes aside he hasn’t looked out of place at all, has good skills and pace. Has been training through defence and midfield and should be a good addition for the Beagles next year.

Ash Johnson: Has also signed with the WAFL Eagles after being delisted by Collingwood last year and joined the group for a few sessions, though Nov 24 was the last day I saw him out there. Unclear whether he’s injured or why he disappeared, though he also looms as a key player for the Beagles this season.

Garrison Kenh: An Eagles NGA product eligible for the 2026 draft, Kenh has made one appearance on the track so far - on Dec 3, joining Tylah Williams briefly for a kick in one of the lighter Wednesday sessions. Hard to get a read on him from that but I will say he looks very fit for his age.

Harry Taylor: Last we heard from the club Taylor was in a “Performance Leadership Consultant” role, though he’s been out there almost every session I’ve watched, often coaching the talls through positioning and contested marking situations. Also often runs alongside the taller players in the running drills, providing moral support. Regardless of whether he’s an actual coach his insights will be invaluable for our key position players.

Nic Naitanui: Similar to Taylor, Nic also isn’t in an official full-time role but has spent a lot of time so far this preseason doing drills with the rucks, following the departure of our former ruck coach Ryan Turnbull. Generally coaches in the bigger Monday and Friday sessions and it’s great to have him sharing his knowledge too.

There have been some AFLW players doing their off-season training sessions alongside the men’s sessions - some I’ve seen include Beth Schilling, Lucia Painter, Sarah Lakay, Charlotte Riggs and Courtney Lindgren.

Obviously this is a very comprehensive write-up for just 5 weeks of training, but there you have it.

I don’t think I’ll be able to attend as many sessions in the new year, but we’ll see how we go. Merry Christmas!
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Well done mate! Great write up!

Excited to hear they come back after Xmas.

I share your surprise and optimism around CDT... I was initially against drafting him but by all reports I'm happy to be proven wrong.

Hopefully in a few years he's a beast of the competition
 

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When does training start again? not sure i can take another 2 weeks of this, can we at least get back to serious shit like "why hasn't Tim Kelly been to training since xmas"
 
LittleFires said:
I’ve attended the vast majority of preseason sessions in the pre-Christmas block so I thought I’d put together a summary of what I’ve seen so far.

Keys has already done a very good job of this in his earlier post, but I figure the more points of view the better. Read as much or as little as you like.

The 1st-4th year players returned to the track on Monday November 10 and kept it reasonably light to start with, with sessions generally lasting under 2 hours on Oval 1 and focusing on fundamentals and smaller-scale ball movement drills. We had good numbers on the track during this initial two-week block, with all senior payers bar Kelly and Starcevich (who finished his season a month after we did) returning earlier than required.

The rest of the squad made their official returns on November 24 along with the new draftees and SSP signings, and the training load progressively increased over the following three weeks out on Jamieson Oval. After our list was finalised we had nearly 50 players on the list meaning numbers on the track were healthy, with fairly normal amount of injuries - generally around a dozen players on clearly separate programs to the rest on any given day.

Players started splitting into line groups more during this period which gave us an indication of where the club sees players playing this season, and the amount of match sim work gradually increased. However there didn’t appear to be any clear ‘A’ or ‘B’ teams just yet, with the players generally evenly spread across the teams. The training block concluded with an almighty 3.5 hour training session on Monday December 15, after which it appears the squad headed down south for a training camp.

I’ll admit I’m not super adept at noticing trends compared to previous years’ preseasons, but here are a few things I’ve definitely noted:
  • Drills involving handballing in congestion have been a big focus throughout the preseason so far and have been a part of most, if not all training sessions
  • Seems to be more high speed running work than usual, typified by the players being made to sprint off the ground for drinks breaks
  • McQualter has been noticeably vocal in the training sessions I’ve watched, providing encouragement and feedback to the players. He’s also not afraid to give the players a clip if a drill or piece of play isn’t to his liking
  • Exercise bikes, row machines and ski erg machines have become a regular part of training sessions for players on managed workloads or those recovering from injury. It may well be that these were used behind closed doors in previous years, but I don’t recall them being a big part of the outdoor training sessions in the past
  • Not something I’ve noticed from the sessions I’ve attended as such, but with the arrival of Phil Merriman the squad has started doing Saturday morning runs in Kings Park - something Fremantle’s players did in previous years under Merriman

Here is a summary of how I’ve seen each player’s preseason going so far. Standouts in green.

1. Willem Duursma: A really smooth mover and has shown flashes of his talent so far without standing out too much. Really does remind me of the Bont with the way he moves. Slightly built but has a good frame to fill out. Injury-free to this point but like all draftees has been managed through the initial pre-Christmas block, occasionally sitting out some drills. Has been training with the mids.

2. Jake Waterman: Hasn’t had the smoothest preseason thus far but seemed to be hitting his strides again towards the end. Was there for day 1 of preseason and was virtually back to full training after his shoulder surgery in May, still wearing strapping on his right shoulder. Finished top 3 in the senior players’ MAS running test but soon after picked up what appeared to me like a minor hamstring injury on Nov 24. Was taken out of full training for a couple of weeks but by the final day he was pretty much back to full fitness and was having an impact in the match sim work.

3. Liam Baker: Similar story to Waterman. Came back earlier than required and was training well initially, coming 4th in the senior players’ MAS running test, until being pulled out of main training on Dec 5 with a hamstring niggle. Spent about a week on light running duties but was ramping things up again by the end. Has trained with the defenders and always a vocal member of the squad, providing encouragement and laughs on the track.

4. Brandon Starcevich: Has slotted in well and is clearly already setting standards on the track. Cuts a chiselled figure out there, trains diligently and on at least one occasion I’ve seen him addressing a group of players to share his knowledge. Eased into training after finishing at Brisbane in late September, but no signs of any concussion issues and has attacked contests with intensity. Has trained with the backs.

5. Josh Lindsay: Impressive start from Lindsay with his foot skills the main highlight. Has pulled off some terrific kicks but made a few mistakes as well, which is only natural for an 18-year-old. Like all draftees he’s been managed through this early stage, but has trained with the defenders so far.

6. Elliot Yeo: I’ll call it a tentatively encouraging pre-Christmas block from Yeo. Was back for day 1 of preseason and trained mostly away from the main group to start, but gradually integrated back into full training as the weeks went on. By early December he was participating in match sim and moving well, though he did miss the last three sessions of the year. Whether this was a sign of a fresh setback or him being given time off for his wedding down south (on Dec 13) remains to be seen.

7. Reuben Ginbey: Has been managed through the pre-Christmas block but has been doing a lot of running and looks in terrific shape. I suspect the club is holding him back from himself at this early stage - he just attacks his training with 100% intensity so it seems like they’re trying to avoid breaking him down early.

8. Elijah Hewett: Hasn’t been a huge standout to me but importantly has remained injury-free and is moving well. Was managed out of a couple of sessions in early December as I suspect the club takes a low-risk approach with his body. Has been training with the mids and hasn’t been super busy in match sim from my perspective, though Phil Merriman has noted him as one of the standout trainers early on which bodes well.

9. Harley Reid: Without wanting to overhype him too much I’m really impressed by what I’m seeing so far from Harley. Started off a little shaky after pulling out of the MAS running test with a calf issue on day 1 of preseason, but the way he’s trained since then has been very encouraging. Occasionally managed out of some drills but by and large has been in full training and visually he looks so much fitter than this time last year. He’s covering the ground well in the match sim work and consistently gets himself involved in the play. Have also noted little things - him providing words of encouragement to others training, guiding the draftees through certain parts of training - which suggest to me that he’s really bought into the group and is invested in the club’s future. Really excited to see what season 3 brings for Harley.

10. Tyler Brockman: Has been fairly anonymous thus far, training with the forwards. Has mostly been in full training but sometimes was managed out of sessions, instead completing his own running program. Hopefully can start to build some momentum after the Christmas break.

11. Tim Kelly: As one of our veterans now Kelly has been eased through this pre-Christmas block. Spent his first week back doing a separate running program, but joined in with the main group in December, sometimes being managed out of drills and instead spending time on the exercise bike. Football-wise he’s tracking fairly well and has been among the better performers in a couple of match sims. Training with the mids.

12. Sam Allen: Has been on light duties so far as the club gets a read on where his body is at following his ACL injury in May. Has been training away from the main group, mainly doing straight-line running and progressing to light change-of-direction work towards the end. Anticipating he’ll slowly integrate into main training over the coming months as he clears the hurdles in his rehab - in his words he’s targeting a return to football “mid-year”.

13. Noah Long: Just plugging away, has put together a solid block of training. Performed well in the MAS running test and hasn’t missed a session. Training with the forwards and has generally been pretty clean in match sim.

14. Liam Duggan: Underwent knee surgery in the off-season so the club has nursed him through this pre-Christmas block. Has often been held out of certain drills or sessions and instead spent a lot of time running laps, kicking or on the exercise bike. Still has participated in at least some match sim and he looks in good shape. Training with the backs.

15. Jamie Cripps: Now the oldest player on our list, Cripps has been managed in a very similar way to Duggan, not doing everything at training but doing enough to keep sharp. Looks in good nick and is just going about his business professionally.

16. Matt Owies: Was one of the senior players who returned to training earlier than required but has spent much of the pre-Christmas block training away from the main group with an undisclosed injury. Started integrating back into the main group towards the end so hopefully he’s back to full fitness by January.

17. Jack Graham: In superb shape, winning the senior players’ MAS running test by a fair margin. Has been in full training, setting standards on the track and playing midfield in match sim. Just a professional and is regularly one of the last to leave the track.

18. Tom McCarthy: Liking what I’m seeing so far from TMac who looks to be eyeing a permanent move to the midfield. Hasn’t missed a session so far and whilst he hasn’t added too much bulk, it seems he’s really gone to work on his running in the off-season. His ability to find space in the match sim work has been a highlight so far.

19. Brady Hough: As he always does, Hough has flown under the radar so far this preseason, just going about his business quietly. He was a bit limited early after shoulder surgery in the off-season, but gradually integrated back into contact work and full training by mid-December. Has trained with the backs so far.

20. Tylar Young: Eased into life as an Eagle following a minor shoulder operation in the off-season, spending his first few sessions spectating or on the exercise bike. He managed to ramp things up pretty quickly though and by the final session he was partially participating in match sim, albeit still limited to non-contact work. Have noted his ability to rebound out of defence, he’s a tidy kick for a key back.

21. Cooper Duff-Tytler: Like many I couldn’t really understand why CDT was rated so highly throughout his draft year, but having watched him up close he couldn’t have been more impressive. His skills are remarkably clean for a man of his size, but something I’ve also noticed is that he seems to have a knack for putting himself in good spots to win the footy - has a strong footy brain I reckon. He’s pretty well-built for an 18-year-old already, so I wouldn’t be surprised if he’s in Round 1 considerations come March. Has been training in a third tall forward/ruck position and whilst he’s been managed with all the other draftees, he looks injury-free.

22. Archer Reid: Has bulked up considerably over the off-season and is a huge unit up close. He’s been training with the forwards so far but has also spent a fair bit of time doing drills with the rucks, and has often played in the ruck during match sim - though it still appears Flynn is ahead of him for that first ruck spot. Hasn’t missed a session and seems determined to fix his set shots up - regularly stays back after the rest have gone inside to get practice in.

23. Ryan Maric: Hasn’t missed a session and looks in good shape, performing strongly in the 1st-4th year players’ MAS running test. Football-wise he’s been training with the backs and seems like someone the team wants to feed the ball. Often pulls off the aggressive kicks - when they come off it opens the game right up but it can also result in costly turnovers.

24. Harvey Johnston: Whopper has probably been in my top 5 standouts so far, loving his work so far. Given the logjam of small defenders already vying for a spot, the club has been training him with the forwards this preseason which he seems to really be embracing. One of the most vocal players out there and has produced some nice plays in match sim with his clean skills and smooth moves. Also regularly one of the last to leave the track, keen to get some extra skill work in after the rest had gone inside. Big year coming for him and he looks to be really switched on so far, If he continues the way he is he’ll certainly be in Round 1 considerations.

25. Matt Flynn: Just plugging along without standing out too much - looks in good running condition and performed quite well in the MAS fitness test. Seems to be the preferred option for the number 1 ruck spot at this stage.

26. Bo Allan: Someone who impressed me early on, Allan looked strong and fit and has been training in a wing role. However around early December he was taken out of contact work with the main group and began sporting a cast on his left wrist, which we later learned was due to a cracked wrist. Fortunately it seems like he’ll be almost back to full fitness by the time the players come back in January.

27. Tom Gross: After a fairly low finish in the MAS running test on Day 1 of preseason, Gross was put through a mountain of running work in that first week back. He did a solo follow-up MAS test a week later where he improved on his time, but unfortunately he was pulled out of training from Nov 24 with what was later reported as a quad issue, spending the following three weeks limited to training on the grandstand stairs and exercise bike. In the final session of the year (Dec 15) he returned to running, so hopefully he’s not limited too much when the players come back next year. Has bulked up in the off-season and looks quite nuggety now.

28. Tom Cole: Now one of our veterans and has just been going about his business professionally so far. Returned to training earlier than required and finished in the top 3 in the senior players’ MAS fitness test. Sometimes managed out of sessions as the club continues to look after his ankle, but has held his own in the match sims.

29. Clay Hall: Has put together a solid block of work so far. Looks to have really worked on his running over the off-season - finished 2nd in the MAS running test and is often at the front of the running groups. Has been playing a mix between wing and inside mid during match sim and looks really committed to earn his spot in the side.

30. Harry Barnett: After partially tearing his PCL in the off-season, Barnett spent the first three weeks of training with a significant knee brace on and doing run throughs away from the main group. However in the last couple of weeks he ditched the brace and began lifting his training loads, progressing to more intense change-of-direction work and joining in with the odd drill with the main group. While he’s been on lighter duties he’s spent a lot of time one-on-one with Nic Naitanui doing tap work exercises.

31. Lucca Grego: Not someone I’ve noticed all that much to be honest. Hasn’t missed a session though and has been training with the defenders. Looks a decent size now and generally a tidy kick.

32. Bailey Williams: Returned earlier than required and did the full session on Day 1 of preseason for the 1st-4th year boys, but soon after was pulled out of any training with what we now know was a groin injury. At the start of December he progressed to stair work and the exercise bike, though as of the final session he was still evidently on an off-legs program. Like Barnett he’s spent a lot of time working with Nic Nat and the other rucks doing stationary tap work while injured.

33. Rhett Bazzo: Hasn’t missed a beat so far this preseason which is a real positive for Rhett. Moving well, looks strong in the running drills and whilst he hasn’t been a huge standout just yet, he’s building a solid foundation to build on in the new year.

34. Jack Williams: Looks fit and has gone to work on his running - was the best-performing tall in the 1st-4th year players’ MAS running test. Had a couple of weeks where his training load was wound back a little, but finished the year in full training. Despite some speculation that he was training with the backs, he has in fact been with the forwards the entire time, occasionally joining the rucks for their drills. Hasn’t been too noticeable in match sim so far.

35. Jobe Shanahan: Liking what I’m seeing from Jobe, who has bulked up over the off-season and now looks an imposing size out there. Looking good in the match sim work up forward, timing his leads well and using his sticky mitts to clunk some nice marks. Really excited by what he could produce next year.

36. Tylah Williams: Has eased into life as an Eagle, with the club managing his training considerably early on. As a result I’ve found it tough to get a read on the type of player he is, but from what I’ve seen he’s agile, skilful and has good goal sense. Has been training with the forwards and like many 18-year-olds is quite slightly built.

37. Malakai Champion: Has been in and out of training early on, most recently appearing to severely injure his knee which fortunately turned out to be a minor MCL strain. Trained fully in the last session of the year so fingers crossed he can stay on the park from January.

38. Hamish Davis: An early standout for mine, Davis has returned to preseason in ripping shape. Won the 1st-4th year players’ MAS fitness test and regularly stays back to do extra skills after the main group has gone inside. Has also been impressive on a wing in match sim with his running patterns and competitiveness. Looks to have added a bit of size too.

39. Fred Rodriguez: For a draftee he’s really well-built and doesn’t look out of place on the track, although he’s been a little quiet in the match sim work so far. Training with the mids but probably behind a few in the inside mid rankings.

40. Deven Robertson: Has been in and out of main training with what I would assume is a shoulder issue - he’s had his right shoulder strapped up at training and he reportedly underwent shoulder surgery in the off-season. Football-wise he’s been training with the mids and hasn’t looked out of place, providing a bigger body among our younger mids.

41. Sandy Brock: Has definitely added some size in the off-season. Other than that I haven’t noticed him too much - has been in full training and have noted him staying back for extra skills at the end of sessions a couple of times.

42. Harry Edwards: Hasn’t missed a session which is a big positive for Harry given his previous injury woes. Unsurprisingly running isn’t his strong point but visually he looks fit and has been competing well in the match sim work playing as the deepest defender.

43. Tyrell Dewar: Started the preseason limited to a spectating role with an undisclosed injury issue, but gradually reintegrated back into main training over the following weeks. Was almost in full training again by the final session but still occasionally sat out some of the contact work. Has been training with the defenders and playing off half-back in match sim, occasionally pushing up to a wing. Hopefully fully fit come January and he can build some confidence in his new role.

44. Jack Hutchinson: Was in full training for the first couple of weeks of preseason, spending his time training with the midfield group and looking in good nick. Unfortunately though on Dec 3 he was pulled out of main training, spending the next week training on the grandstand stairs or exercise bike, and the following week he didn’t do any training at all after developing a stress fracture in his ankle. According to the club he won’t be running again until late February, and from there it’s probably at least 6-8 weeks before a return to play - so looks likely to miss the at least the first month of the season.

45. Fin Macrae: Has mostly trained fully and spends his time with the midfield group, though of the three SSP recruits Macrae is probably the one I’ve noticed least. Finished 5th in the senior players’ MAS running test so is clearly very aerobically fit. Also looks a bit bigger than I expected.

46. Jacob Newton: Has been training with the forwards and looks very fit, finishing strongly in the MAS fitness test. Was looking good early days but had his training loads pulled back in December, completing a lot of running instead. Hopefully it’s nothing too bad and he’s back training fully in January,

48. Harry Schoenberg: I wasn’t sure what too make of his signing initially, but I’ve actually quite liked what I’ve seen from Schoenberg so far. Has some pace and kicked a great running goal in one of the match sims which caught my eye. Probably been the most impressive of our SSP signings for mine.


Archie Watt: Signed to our WAFL side for next year out of Kyabram in Victoria, Watt has been training with the side since the first day of preseason and has somehow already become a board meme. Jokes aside he hasn’t looked out of place at all, has good skills and pace. Has been training through defence and midfield and should be a good addition for the Beagles next year.

Ash Johnson: Has also signed with the WAFL Eagles after being delisted by Collingwood last year and joined the group for a few sessions, though Nov 24 was the last day I saw him out there. Unclear whether he’s injured or why he disappeared, though he also looms as a key player for the Beagles this season.

Garrison Kenh: An Eagles NGA product eligible for the 2026 draft, Kenh has made one appearance on the track so far - on Dec 3, joining Tylah Williams briefly for a kick in one of the lighter Wednesday sessions. Hard to get a read on him from that but I will say he looks very fit for his age.

Harry Taylor: Last we heard from the club Taylor was in a “Performance Leadership Consultant” role, though he’s been out there almost every session I’ve watched, often coaching the talls through positioning and contested marking situations. Also often runs alongside the taller players in the running drills, providing moral support. Regardless of whether he’s an actual coach his insights will be invaluable for our key position players.

Nic Naitanui: Similar to Taylor, Nic also isn’t in an official full-time role but has spent a lot of time so far this preseason doing drills with the rucks, following the departure of our former ruck coach Ryan Turnbull. Generally coaches in the bigger Monday and Friday sessions and it’s great to have him sharing his knowledge too.

There have been some AFLW players doing their off-season training sessions alongside the men’s sessions - some I’ve seen include Beth Schilling, Lucia Painter, Sarah Lakay, Charlotte Riggs and Courtney Lindgren.

Obviously this is a very comprehensive write-up for just 5 weeks of training, but there you have it.

I don’t think I’ll be able to attend as many sessions in the new year, but we’ll see how we go. Merry Christmas!
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A big thanks for all you have done and giving your honest assessment
 
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LittleFires said:
I’ve attended the vast majority of preseason sessions in the pre-Christmas block so I thought I’d put together a summary of what I’ve seen so far.

Keys has already done a very good job of this in his earlier post, but I figure the more points of view the better. Read as much or as little as you like.

The 1st-4th year players returned to the track on Monday November 10 and kept it reasonably light to start with, with sessions generally lasting under 2 hours on Oval 1 and focusing on fundamentals and smaller-scale ball movement drills. We had good numbers on the track during this initial two-week block, with all senior payers bar Kelly and Starcevich (who finished his season a month after we did) returning earlier than required.

The rest of the squad made their official returns on November 24 along with the new draftees and SSP signings, and the training load progressively increased over the following three weeks out on Jamieson Oval. After our list was finalised we had nearly 50 players on the list meaning numbers on the track were healthy, with fairly normal amount of injuries - generally around a dozen players on clearly separate programs to the rest on any given day.

Players started splitting into line groups more during this period which gave us an indication of where the club sees players playing this season, and the amount of match sim work gradually increased. However there didn’t appear to be any clear ‘A’ or ‘B’ teams just yet, with the players generally evenly spread across the teams. The training block concluded with an almighty 3.5 hour training session on Monday December 15, after which it appears the squad headed down south for a training camp.

I’ll admit I’m not super adept at noticing trends compared to previous years’ preseasons, but here are a few things I’ve definitely noted:
  • Drills involving handballing in congestion have been a big focus throughout the preseason so far and have been a part of most, if not all training sessions
  • Seems to be more high speed running work than usual, typified by the players being made to sprint off the ground for drinks breaks
  • McQualter has been noticeably vocal in the training sessions I’ve watched, providing encouragement and feedback to the players. He’s also not afraid to give the players a clip if a drill or piece of play isn’t to his liking
  • Exercise bikes, row machines and ski erg machines have become a regular part of training sessions for players on managed workloads or those recovering from injury. It may well be that these were used behind closed doors in previous years, but I don’t recall them being a big part of the outdoor training sessions in the past
  • Not something I’ve noticed from the sessions I’ve attended as such, but with the arrival of Phil Merriman the squad has started doing Saturday morning runs in Kings Park - something Fremantle’s players did in previous years under Merriman

Here is a summary of how I’ve seen each player’s preseason going so far. Standouts in green.

1. Willem Duursma: A really smooth mover and has shown flashes of his talent so far without standing out too much. Really does remind me of the Bont with the way he moves. Slightly built but has a good frame to fill out. Injury-free to this point but like all draftees has been managed through the initial pre-Christmas block, occasionally sitting out some drills. Has been training with the mids.

2. Jake Waterman: Hasn’t had the smoothest preseason thus far but seemed to be hitting his strides again towards the end. Was there for day 1 of preseason and was virtually back to full training after his shoulder surgery in May, still wearing strapping on his right shoulder. Finished top 3 in the senior players’ MAS running test but soon after picked up what appeared to me like a minor hamstring injury on Nov 24. Was taken out of full training for a couple of weeks but by the final day he was pretty much back to full fitness and was having an impact in the match sim work.

3. Liam Baker: Similar story to Waterman. Came back earlier than required and was training well initially, coming 4th in the senior players’ MAS running test, until being pulled out of main training on Dec 5 with a hamstring niggle. Spent about a week on light running duties but was ramping things up again by the end. Has trained with the defenders and always a vocal member of the squad, providing encouragement and laughs on the track.

4. Brandon Starcevich: Has slotted in well and is clearly already setting standards on the track. Cuts a chiselled figure out there, trains diligently and on at least one occasion I’ve seen him addressing a group of players to share his knowledge. Eased into training after finishing at Brisbane in late September, but no signs of any concussion issues and has attacked contests with intensity. Has trained with the backs.

5. Josh Lindsay: Impressive start from Lindsay with his foot skills the main highlight. Has pulled off some terrific kicks but made a few mistakes as well, which is only natural for an 18-year-old. Like all draftees he’s been managed through this early stage, but has trained with the defenders so far.

6. Elliot Yeo: I’ll call it a tentatively encouraging pre-Christmas block from Yeo. Was back for day 1 of preseason and trained mostly away from the main group to start, but gradually integrated back into full training as the weeks went on. By early December he was participating in match sim and moving well, though he did miss the last three sessions of the year. Whether this was a sign of a fresh setback or him being given time off for his wedding down south (on Dec 13) remains to be seen.

7. Reuben Ginbey: Has been managed through the pre-Christmas block but has been doing a lot of running and looks in terrific shape. I suspect the club is holding him back from himself at this early stage - he just attacks his training with 100% intensity so it seems like they’re trying to avoid breaking him down early.

8. Elijah Hewett: Hasn’t been a huge standout to me but importantly has remained injury-free and is moving well. Was managed out of a couple of sessions in early December as I suspect the club takes a low-risk approach with his body. Has been training with the mids and hasn’t been super busy in match sim from my perspective, though Phil Merriman has noted him as one of the standout trainers early on which bodes well.

9. Harley Reid: Without wanting to overhype him too much I’m really impressed by what I’m seeing so far from Harley. Started off a little shaky after pulling out of the MAS running test with a calf issue on day 1 of preseason, but the way he’s trained since then has been very encouraging. Occasionally managed out of some drills but by and large has been in full training and visually he looks so much fitter than this time last year. He’s covering the ground well in the match sim work and consistently gets himself involved in the play. Have also noted little things - him providing words of encouragement to others training, guiding the draftees through certain parts of training - which suggest to me that he’s really bought into the group and is invested in the club’s future. Really excited to see what season 3 brings for Harley.

10. Tyler Brockman: Has been fairly anonymous thus far, training with the forwards. Has mostly been in full training but sometimes was managed out of sessions, instead completing his own running program. Hopefully can start to build some momentum after the Christmas break.

11. Tim Kelly: As one of our veterans now Kelly has been eased through this pre-Christmas block. Spent his first week back doing a separate running program, but joined in with the main group in December, sometimes being managed out of drills and instead spending time on the exercise bike. Football-wise he’s tracking fairly well and has been among the better performers in a couple of match sims. Training with the mids.

12. Sam Allen: Has been on light duties so far as the club gets a read on where his body is at following his ACL injury in May. Has been training away from the main group, mainly doing straight-line running and progressing to light change-of-direction work towards the end. Anticipating he’ll slowly integrate into main training over the coming months as he clears the hurdles in his rehab - in his words he’s targeting a return to football “mid-year”.

13. Noah Long: Just plugging away, has put together a solid block of training. Performed well in the MAS running test and hasn’t missed a session. Training with the forwards and has generally been pretty clean in match sim.

14. Liam Duggan: Underwent knee surgery in the off-season so the club has nursed him through this pre-Christmas block. Has often been held out of certain drills or sessions and instead spent a lot of time running laps, kicking or on the exercise bike. Still has participated in at least some match sim and he looks in good shape. Training with the backs.

15. Jamie Cripps: Now the oldest player on our list, Cripps has been managed in a very similar way to Duggan, not doing everything at training but doing enough to keep sharp. Looks in good nick and is just going about his business professionally.

16. Matt Owies: Was one of the senior players who returned to training earlier than required but has spent much of the pre-Christmas block training away from the main group with an undisclosed injury. Started integrating back into the main group towards the end so hopefully he’s back to full fitness by January.

17. Jack Graham: In superb shape, winning the senior players’ MAS running test by a fair margin. Has been in full training, setting standards on the track and playing midfield in match sim. Just a professional and is regularly one of the last to leave the track.

18. Tom McCarthy: Liking what I’m seeing so far from TMac who looks to be eyeing a permanent move to the midfield. Hasn’t missed a session so far and whilst he hasn’t added too much bulk, it seems he’s really gone to work on his running in the off-season. His ability to find space in the match sim work has been a highlight so far.

19. Brady Hough: As he always does, Hough has flown under the radar so far this preseason, just going about his business quietly. He was a bit limited early after shoulder surgery in the off-season, but gradually integrated back into contact work and full training by mid-December. Has trained with the backs so far.

20. Tylar Young: Eased into life as an Eagle following a minor shoulder operation in the off-season, spending his first few sessions spectating or on the exercise bike. He managed to ramp things up pretty quickly though and by the final session he was partially participating in match sim, albeit still limited to non-contact work. Have noted his ability to rebound out of defence, he’s a tidy kick for a key back.

21. Cooper Duff-Tytler: Like many I couldn’t really understand why CDT was rated so highly throughout his draft year, but having watched him up close he couldn’t have been more impressive. His skills are remarkably clean for a man of his size, but something I’ve also noticed is that he seems to have a knack for putting himself in good spots to win the footy - has a strong footy brain I reckon. He’s pretty well-built for an 18-year-old already, so I wouldn’t be surprised if he’s in Round 1 considerations come March. Has been training in a third tall forward/ruck position and whilst he’s been managed with all the other draftees, he looks injury-free.

22. Archer Reid: Has bulked up considerably over the off-season and is a huge unit up close. He’s been training with the forwards so far but has also spent a fair bit of time doing drills with the rucks, and has often played in the ruck during match sim - though it still appears Flynn is ahead of him for that first ruck spot. Hasn’t missed a session and seems determined to fix his set shots up - regularly stays back after the rest have gone inside to get practice in.

23. Ryan Maric: Hasn’t missed a session and looks in good shape, performing strongly in the 1st-4th year players’ MAS running test. Football-wise he’s been training with the backs and seems like someone the team wants to feed the ball. Often pulls off the aggressive kicks - when they come off it opens the game right up but it can also result in costly turnovers.

24. Harvey Johnston: Whopper has probably been in my top 5 standouts so far, loving his work so far. Given the logjam of small defenders already vying for a spot, the club has been training him with the forwards this preseason which he seems to really be embracing. One of the most vocal players out there and has produced some nice plays in match sim with his clean skills and smooth moves. Also regularly one of the last to leave the track, keen to get some extra skill work in after the rest had gone inside. Big year coming for him and he looks to be really switched on so far, If he continues the way he is he’ll certainly be in Round 1 considerations.

25. Matt Flynn: Just plugging along without standing out too much - looks in good running condition and performed quite well in the MAS fitness test. Seems to be the preferred option for the number 1 ruck spot at this stage.

26. Bo Allan: Someone who impressed me early on, Allan looked strong and fit and has been training in a wing role. However around early December he was taken out of contact work with the main group and began sporting a cast on his left wrist, which we later learned was due to a cracked wrist. Fortunately it seems like he’ll be almost back to full fitness by the time the players come back in January.

27. Tom Gross: After a fairly low finish in the MAS running test on Day 1 of preseason, Gross was put through a mountain of running work in that first week back. He did a solo follow-up MAS test a week later where he improved on his time, but unfortunately he was pulled out of training from Nov 24 with what was later reported as a quad issue, spending the following three weeks limited to training on the grandstand stairs and exercise bike. In the final session of the year (Dec 15) he returned to running, so hopefully he’s not limited too much when the players come back next year. Has bulked up in the off-season and looks quite nuggety now.

28. Tom Cole: Now one of our veterans and has just been going about his business professionally so far. Returned to training earlier than required and finished in the top 3 in the senior players’ MAS fitness test. Sometimes managed out of sessions as the club continues to look after his ankle, but has held his own in the match sims.

29. Clay Hall: Has put together a solid block of work so far. Looks to have really worked on his running over the off-season - finished 2nd in the MAS running test and is often at the front of the running groups. Has been playing a mix between wing and inside mid during match sim and looks really committed to earn his spot in the side.

30. Harry Barnett: After partially tearing his PCL in the off-season, Barnett spent the first three weeks of training with a significant knee brace on and doing run throughs away from the main group. However in the last couple of weeks he ditched the brace and began lifting his training loads, progressing to more intense change-of-direction work and joining in with the odd drill with the main group. While he’s been on lighter duties he’s spent a lot of time one-on-one with Nic Naitanui doing tap work exercises.

31. Lucca Grego: Not someone I’ve noticed all that much to be honest. Hasn’t missed a session though and has been training with the defenders. Looks a decent size now and generally a tidy kick.

32. Bailey Williams: Returned earlier than required and did the full session on Day 1 of preseason for the 1st-4th year boys, but soon after was pulled out of any training with what we now know was a groin injury. At the start of December he progressed to stair work and the exercise bike, though as of the final session he was still evidently on an off-legs program. Like Barnett he’s spent a lot of time working with Nic Nat and the other rucks doing stationary tap work while injured.

33. Rhett Bazzo: Hasn’t missed a beat so far this preseason which is a real positive for Rhett. Moving well, looks strong in the running drills and whilst he hasn’t been a huge standout just yet, he’s building a solid foundation to build on in the new year.

34. Jack Williams: Looks fit and has gone to work on his running - was the best-performing tall in the 1st-4th year players’ MAS running test. Had a couple of weeks where his training load was wound back a little, but finished the year in full training. Despite some speculation that he was training with the backs, he has in fact been with the forwards the entire time, occasionally joining the rucks for their drills. Hasn’t been too noticeable in match sim so far.

35. Jobe Shanahan: Liking what I’m seeing from Jobe, who has bulked up over the off-season and now looks an imposing size out there. Looking good in the match sim work up forward, timing his leads well and using his sticky mitts to clunk some nice marks. Really excited by what he could produce next year.

36. Tylah Williams: Has eased into life as an Eagle, with the club managing his training considerably early on. As a result I’ve found it tough to get a read on the type of player he is, but from what I’ve seen he’s agile, skilful and has good goal sense. Has been training with the forwards and like many 18-year-olds is quite slightly built.

37. Malakai Champion: Has been in and out of training early on, most recently appearing to severely injure his knee which fortunately turned out to be a minor MCL strain. Trained fully in the last session of the year so fingers crossed he can stay on the park from January.

38. Hamish Davis: An early standout for mine, Davis has returned to preseason in ripping shape. Won the 1st-4th year players’ MAS fitness test and regularly stays back to do extra skills after the main group has gone inside. Has also been impressive on a wing in match sim with his running patterns and competitiveness. Looks to have added a bit of size too.

39. Fred Rodriguez: For a draftee he’s really well-built and doesn’t look out of place on the track, although he’s been a little quiet in the match sim work so far. Training with the mids but probably behind a few in the inside mid rankings.

40. Deven Robertson: Has been in and out of main training with what I would assume is a shoulder issue - he’s had his right shoulder strapped up at training and he reportedly underwent shoulder surgery in the off-season. Football-wise he’s been training with the mids and hasn’t looked out of place, providing a bigger body among our younger mids.

41. Sandy Brock: Has definitely added some size in the off-season. Other than that I haven’t noticed him too much - has been in full training and have noted him staying back for extra skills at the end of sessions a couple of times.

42. Harry Edwards: Hasn’t missed a session which is a big positive for Harry given his previous injury woes. Unsurprisingly running isn’t his strong point but visually he looks fit and has been competing well in the match sim work playing as the deepest defender.

43. Tyrell Dewar: Started the preseason limited to a spectating role with an undisclosed injury issue, but gradually reintegrated back into main training over the following weeks. Was almost in full training again by the final session but still occasionally sat out some of the contact work. Has been training with the defenders and playing off half-back in match sim, occasionally pushing up to a wing. Hopefully fully fit come January and he can build some confidence in his new role.

44. Jack Hutchinson: Was in full training for the first couple of weeks of preseason, spending his time training with the midfield group and looking in good nick. Unfortunately though on Dec 3 he was pulled out of main training, spending the next week training on the grandstand stairs or exercise bike, and the following week he didn’t do any training at all after developing a stress fracture in his ankle. According to the club he won’t be running again until late February, and from there it’s probably at least 6-8 weeks before a return to play - so looks likely to miss the at least the first month of the season.

45. Fin Macrae: Has mostly trained fully and spends his time with the midfield group, though of the three SSP recruits Macrae is probably the one I’ve noticed least. Finished 5th in the senior players’ MAS running test so is clearly very aerobically fit. Also looks a bit bigger than I expected.

46. Jacob Newton: Has been training with the forwards and looks very fit, finishing strongly in the MAS fitness test. Was looking good early days but had his training loads pulled back in December, completing a lot of running instead. Hopefully it’s nothing too bad and he’s back training fully in January,

48. Harry Schoenberg: I wasn’t sure what too make of his signing initially, but I’ve actually quite liked what I’ve seen from Schoenberg so far. Has some pace and kicked a great running goal in one of the match sims which caught my eye. Probably been the most impressive of our SSP signings for mine.


Archie Watt: Signed to our WAFL side for next year out of Kyabram in Victoria, Watt has been training with the side since the first day of preseason and has somehow already become a board meme. Jokes aside he hasn’t looked out of place at all, has good skills and pace. Has been training through defence and midfield and should be a good addition for the Beagles next year.

Ash Johnson: Has also signed with the WAFL Eagles after being delisted by Collingwood last year and joined the group for a few sessions, though Nov 24 was the last day I saw him out there. Unclear whether he’s injured or why he disappeared, though he also looms as a key player for the Beagles this season.

Garrison Kenh: An Eagles NGA product eligible for the 2026 draft, Kenh has made one appearance on the track so far - on Dec 3, joining Tylah Williams briefly for a kick in one of the lighter Wednesday sessions. Hard to get a read on him from that but I will say he looks very fit for his age.

Harry Taylor: Last we heard from the club Taylor was in a “Performance Leadership Consultant” role, though he’s been out there almost every session I’ve watched, often coaching the talls through positioning and contested marking situations. Also often runs alongside the taller players in the running drills, providing moral support. Regardless of whether he’s an actual coach his insights will be invaluable for our key position players.

Nic Naitanui: Similar to Taylor, Nic also isn’t in an official full-time role but has spent a lot of time so far this preseason doing drills with the rucks, following the departure of our former ruck coach Ryan Turnbull. Generally coaches in the bigger Monday and Friday sessions and it’s great to have him sharing his knowledge too.

There have been some AFLW players doing their off-season training sessions alongside the men’s sessions - some I’ve seen include Beth Schilling, Lucia Painter, Sarah Lakay, Charlotte Riggs and Courtney Lindgren.

Obviously this is a very comprehensive write-up for just 5 weeks of training, but there you have it.

I don’t think I’ll be able to attend as many sessions in the new year, but we’ll see how we go. Merry Christmas!
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