Popped into training this morning for the first time in a couple of years. The thing that struck me was the relaxed nature and harmony in the group. Everyone seems to be getting on very well. I wasn't too worried about some mistakes as this was the first run after Xmas.
Also, I spoke to one of the trainers watching the training and asked him about Hartlett. He said there were no major problems and that Hartlett should be back in full training in 2 weeks. Adam was doing weights today and his injury was only a minor cartlidge problem. The Trainer was a bit of a rap for Hartlett and I got the impression that everyone is hoping that he can get an extended run this year because they see him as part of the future.
Finally, 2 things stood out for me. First Gibbs looks sensational and the way he moves he looks a lot like Nathan Buckley in 1993/94. He is going to be something really special.
Second point, and I know that some people have had a bit of a crack at Yarran but, watch him grow as he fits into the Club. He is never going to win a time trial but I guarantee you he will be something special. Just watching him move in training he sometimes looks like he is going up and down on the spot, but he never gets caught. He looks very much like a young version of Shaun Burgoyne. He definitely has the footy smarts and just wait until he gets a full season or 2 of training and games into him. I think we have got a ripper in this one.
This year may not bring us the big prize but, 2010 could well be the year when we hear " We are the old dark navy blues......." blasting out over the MCG about 5.00pm on that last day in September. We are on the way again!!!!!
