DEMONLAND'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

It’s a beautiful day down at Gosch’s Paddock for some preseason training.

Previous week's rehabbers CJ, Henderson, Culley, McAdam, Salem are all doing warmups with the squad.

Petty is not wearing the fluoro yellow no contact hat.

Max and Rivers warming up separately with some trainers. Perhaps because of State of Origin. Kozzy warming up with the squad.

Spoke to soon with Petty. Yellow No Contact Hat is now on.

Absent: May (Personal), Viney (Achilles), Campbell (Neck), Johnson (?)

Jake Bowey on the bikes in the shed.

Culley doing warmups that don’t include contact.

Henderson has already head off to do rehab with the trainers.

I’ll update the other rehabbers once they break off from the warmups and training proper begins.

Campbell has arrived still in the neck brace.

Campbell briefly joined Bowser on the bikes.

Drills proper have started and there aren’t any rehabbers out of the usual suspects. Salem, CJ, McAdam, AMW and even Culley are participating in the drills.

3 drills:

1. 8 vs 8 keepings off handball drill. (Mids/Half Forwards/Half Backs)

2. One on One marking drill. Ball kicked high to two players. (Taller Defenders/Forwards)

3. The big Russian Mark Jamar is taking Max, Heath & Kentfield for ruck craft drills in the middle. Earlier JVR was having a one on one tutorial with Jamar and the ruck bag.

AMW, McAdam, Petty & Culley have split off from the drills as they are contact heavy and are working separately with a trainer.

Match Simulation type drill in progress.

Petty, Culley, AMW, McAdam & Kentfield are not participating.

Jefferson limping off and being looked at by the medicos. Looks like an ankle or foot. Just been given tablets by medico (pain or inflammation). Bandaging the ankle.

Petty, Culley, AMW & Kentfield running laps together.

McAdam on a separate running program with a trainer. Shorter faster running.

Jeffo has had his ankle strapped and is back on the field.

he only players that were present and did not participate in the contact drills were Petty, Culley, AMW, McAdam & Kentfield.

Henderson was doing separate rehab.

Everyone else who was present participated in every drill.

May and Viney were absent whilst Bowey and Campbell were present but did not participate in anything other than time on the bike.

FRITTA AND TURNER'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Good news is that the Pink Lemonaide Cafe outside of Richmond station has re opened.

Bowey having a short distance kick to kick with J Rivers then on the bike.

Reece Conca was eating a banana.

A couple of players were firmly reminded that they had 5 minutes to be out on the ground. (Some players are out there 40 mins early and others with a minute to go).

No May or Viney. TC arrived late still in the brace, though on him it looks more like a horse collar.

CJ and Tommy Matthews were having their photo taken when Reg walked past and squeezed CJs bottom.

Max, Moose and Luker (no mask) were practising ruck work in the centre with Jamar holding the bag. Moose knocked Jamar to the ground.

Fritta did a warm up on the fence, similar to what I did at pilates last week. I was sore for 3 days.

Jeffo came off to get his foot strapped.

When I was young a broken arm was a plaster cast with 50 signatures. Culley had a large 'bandaid' on his arm.

Nearly everyone took part in the warm up drills. Luker, Petty, Culley, AMW and McAdam did not take part in the contested ball work. This group did some fitness work along the boundary.

Chaplin very vocal.

If Kossy doesnt win the medal it will be because Windsor stole some votes.

KEV'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Gorgeous morning for a training run down at Gosch's Paddock.

They were out early again.

Plenty of running in the warm ups. Looks like they are building their aerobic capacity, getting them match fit.

The drills appeared to emphasise pressure and skills.

The sims consisted of two 10 minute periods and a rest after 5 minutes in both. Mainly taken by Rivers who got the mids to set up with gentleness on either side of the midfield, before they floated a ball down back, from where it got more serious.

The attackers were able to create turn overs if the backs weren't tuned in. The tackling remains restrained, competing in aerials is nearly non-existent. Some of the ball movement was fast, very little looking for the central corridor, most taking it around the boundary. The passes into the forwards are improving. Plenty of leads of the back of the pack. The mids continue to work on overlap, causing the defenders to work hard on hand overs as they close the space ahead of them.

I like what Kolt is doing, reads the play well off half-back and gut runs up the field for more possessions. Still learning his position as he makes sure he is in the area delegated to him by asking Lever.

He is not the only one with extensive movement, Adams is also doing it. We will be doing plenty of getting to the contest area in a game, if they persist with full field runs from the backs.

Steele will tackle anything, his field kicking and decision making is great.

Heath loves bringing his runners into the game, presents well and quickly hands off the ball.

Melksham still has his craftiness. His kicking is getting even better.

I am still on the fence with Mathews, beautiful kick but not getting enough of the ball.

Latrelle is a happy and gregarious man.

The set of tall backs on one side were, Turner (also looking good, creates time and has poise), Tmac (doing everything right), and Lever (lots of chasing and captaining the backs).

The set of tall forwards on the same side were, Miochek (mister reliable), Jeffo (getting separation), and JVR (imposing himself).

After the sims they went into their line groups.

Loved that the goal kicking practice was only the forwards. You could see the mids wanted to be in there kicking but no, only forwards. Even Lever wanted into that “sacred” space. Chaplin has them in a structured environment, with plenty of success and connection within that group.

Someone parked their car and then sprinted onto the Paddock with the black mask of Luke in hand. With only 5 minutes of the sim to go it made no difference. My guess as to why Kentfield was on light duties, he forgot it.

DEMONLAND'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Present: JVR, Salem (Rehab), Langford, Lindsey, Windsor, Lever, Steele, Turner, Tholstrup, CJ, Langdon, Laurie, Bowey (Rehab), Melksham, Taylor, Matthews, Jefferson, Howes, McAdam (Rehab), TMac, Adams, Heath, Mihocek, Sharp, Fritsch, Sparrow, Trelly, Petty (No Contact Hat), Chandler, Berry, Mentha, Onley, Johnson (Rehab), Henderson (Rehab), Kentfield (No Contact Mask), AMW.

Absent: May (Personal), Viney (Achilles), Gawn (State of Origin), Culley (Broken Arm), Rivers (State of Origin), Pickett (State of Origin), White (Illness), Campbell (Neck)

Rehab (so far): Kentfield, Bowey, Henderson

Others doing warmups.

Kentfield has joined the group doing warmups. Bowey and Henderson handballing to each other.

I’ll update the rehab list after the warmups.

Salem, Melksham, McAdam and CJ all participating in the warmups.

Henderson & Bowey walking laps with footys in hand.

Laurie has peeled off from the warmups to work with a trainer in rehab.

First time I’ve seen Melksham kick a footy in a drill all preseason. Moving well.

McAdam is also back in some of the warm up kicking drills for the first time this preseason.

Split off into a couple of different drills.

1. Most of the players line up to kick to a leading forward running towards the kicker with one defender on his tail and another defender to his side as an interceptor. Immediately after that play another player will kick to that forward who has now tried to get out the back of the two defenders heading towards goal.

2. 4 vs 4 close quarters keepings off handball drill - rucks Heath/Jamar Kolt, Trelly, Windsor vs Langford, Sparrow, Langdon.

3. Lever and Jefferson working with one of the trainers.

4. JVR vs Taylor one on one leading drill. Mentha vs Berry doing the same.

Rehab: Johnson, Salem, McAdam all jogging laps. Bowey & Henderson on the bikes in the shed.

AMW, CJ & Melksham (All in some type of rehab in previous sessions) all participating in the next drill.

Split into 2 groups:

1. 8 vs 8 keepings off kicking drill along the wing between half forward/half back.

2. 7 vs 7 loose ball get on the half forward line trying to get the ball deep inside 50.

Petty still in the fluoro yellow no contact hat. He has been in this hat for the past couple of weeks and missed a few sessions prior to the hat appearing. Ongoing concussion symptoms or reoccurance?

Kentfield in the Batman mask.

Heath now running laps with Salem.

AMW with boots off walking gingerly back to AAMI. 😱

Someone else in the crowd seemed to think it could be a crook gut. Watch this space.

Campbell arrives still with neck brace.

Heath, Henderson & Bowey head back to AAMI.

After participating in all the drills so far CJ is now running laps at a good clip.

Full ground Match SIM/Circle Work.

Can’t see Melksham out there.

GHOSTWRITER'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Hendo’s sacrum is healing well but he won’t be in full training for a couple of months.

Luker says his face isn’t as bad as it sounds: a 4-cm crack from his eye socket down. He has no pain and his face looks normal. He’s swapped the no-contact hat for the mask.

Bowser in great spirits. He said his recovery is tracking well and is actually ahead of schedule, hence the high spirits.

Sharpie did his hammy just before Xmas but now back to 100% right as rain (his words).

THIRTY ONE'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Salo having work done on his hammy, running it out.

McAdam and AJ running the boundary. Both participated in the drills.

I think a few might be suffering from training yesterday. AMW looked unwell to me, lots of sitting and looking pale, and disappeared behind the shed at AAMI Park. Melksham wandered off too in the usual direction.

TRAVY 14'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Notes from today's session:

T-Mac - how do we go past him.  Looks great never beaten.
Salem - not quite ready, looked ok but the pulled out and did run throughs. At a good pace though.
CJ - looks to be almost at full training again
Laurie - barely missed a target all training, could the King era suit him?
McAdam - no where near it.
Melksham - looks to be fully training
Lindsay - will be a smart user big year incoming i think
AMW - agility and speed looking good, power and drive to come.
Petty - looks to be moving well, always hard to tell with his lethargic demeanour.
Mihocek - will prove to be a great pick up, pulls the young key fwds a side and runs them through moments and patterns.
Fritsch- looks fit and training with intent.

Mainly a skills session today, ball movement much more dynamic, and a clear emphasis on sling shot footy and get out the back for goals. Fwds pushing up high mixing up in congestion, trying to lose their opponents and work back hard.

FRITTA AND TURNER'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

An energy sapping day at training, even I was parched. Standing under a shady tree is hard work.

Nearly all those present took part in the warm up drills.

Kentfield had the mask on and was looking good, like phantom of the opera.

There is an obvious concentration on quick ball movement and quicker decision making. I heard Kingy yelling this out.

Kalani White I believe has glandular fever. TC still in a brace. Some players would drift over to the trainers/medical team, point to some part of the body, get some treatment, join back in or wander off to the sheds. Bowey moving well, the obvious limp is gone.

Just watching Salem run the boundary tightens my hamstrings.

Melky moving well, but at his stage of his career, in case of Brodie breakdown, break glass.

AMW back to the sheds early, feeling ill.

Lever very vocal.

Taylor still learning where to run.

Onley obviously has the body, kicking lets him down. Might surprise round 1.

KEV'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Some thoughts about the training in the balmy conditions, with no wind.

They are not close checking or tackling, in the sims. The first lot were 8 minutes × 2 sessions of set plays from the half-back area. Then they did a 15 minute hit out.

A little congestion to start, though they easily break the lines and get the ball moving quickly without the usual pressure. There was space everywhere. They hugged the boundary most of the time. The backs would switch with ease and the runners found separation and made the easy kicks. I was quite amazed to see our change in game style. Previously we had been looking for that central corridor, we were fighting to make space and get separation. It was a day with plenty of space and skilled kicking.

Latrelle dominated, running forward to back and forward again. Really good tank, with a burst of speed as he steps, shimmies and sells the fake, definitely a starter. Nice kick as well.

Steel sits back in the central area acting as a defensive mid. Made quite a few re-entries and links.

Fritta was played on the wing in a few of the proceedings.

JVR hands seem to be in a better position. Hoping it translates to cleaner marking. Looking good.

The forward line is no-longer playing “ring a ring a rosie”. Much more about making leads, then getting back and going again. Though I have seen some drills where the forwards get in the way of back men so separation can occur when the area is congested.

Interestingly, we can change it up (open or congested style).

Some of the structured stuff had them getting front and centre as the big tapped the high ball. We struggled to read it well. They then hope for an “out the back” lead.

They played with more freedom and gave each other space. The ball moved quickly

At the end of the sims, they separated into groups of marking, I think low ball gets, and goal kicking. Goaling was much more structured then the old just let them have shots. Latrelle and Mentha seemed to have a licence to strut there stuff from hard on the boundary. The rest with set shots inside the 40 meters. The other lot marking from over the bag.

Plenty of players finishing with doing fast and numerous laps.

J.Rivers working hard on Taylor's positioning and decision-making.

King with forwards of JVR, Jeffo, Miochek and Fritsch, just talking to them at the end.

Last to leave was King.

Lots of the board and associated Admins were also down. They have been regular attendees of preseason, including Guerra.

BRENNO'S MATCH SIMULATION OBSERVATIONS

I popped in this morning to observe the Match Sim/Intra club. Might be some double up to my notes and it's hard to be completely accurate when the play is on the far side of the ground. But here's what I took away from today. 

Both Picketts and Ricky Mentha were absent…..Gutted. I was really looking forward to seeing Trelly play in the flesh for the first time!

From the blokes who were there but didn't play in match sim; Salem, CJ, Laurie Petty, Luka didn't look too bad to my uninformed and uneducated eye. They all ran laps or sprints at stages and none of them looked far off it. Mcadam also ran laps but sadly, he just doesn't look anywhere near it to me. Doesn't look fit and dare I say interested. I could be wrong but that's the vibe I got. Poor bloke. 

Didn't see much activity from Melky, Bowser, Hendo & Kalani. Not sure what the issue with Kalani is but he was in thongs when he walked past me on the boundary. 

The 1st “quarter” started off with what looked like the 1st choice 22 (BLUE) vs the rest (GREY). This may have excluded the mids who chopped and changed throughout the day. Gawny was also in the “others” group. I suppose this was to give Moose the chance to be the main man for a while and let Max gradually get into match conditioning.

The starting key Backs (Blue Team) looked like Tmac, Lever and Disco with XL XT and Howes as the small defenders. They really were not troubled very much unless Gawn floated down and clunked it inside 50. Gawny had one of his trademark shank kicks at goal in the second quarter. Vintage Gawn. 

The front 6 for blue looked like JVR, Checkers, Fritch, Jeffo Sharp and I think Chandler. And I must say, they were looking quite connected and worked well together as a group, especially the talls (admittedly against weaker opponents). 

The mids rotated quite often and it was hard to tell who was in the guts at times but all of Windsor, Culley, Sparrow, Riv, Steele, Kolt, Chandler  had cracks in there throughout the day. It's going to be really interesting who the starting mids will be this year, but if I had to guess ... .Rivers, Steele, Koz, Windsor will be the main 4 until Viney is back.

As you can imagine the Blues dominated the first 2 (out of 3) “quarters” and were 50 odd points ahead at half time. 

It was very noticeable how much faster we were moving the ball when in offense compared to previous seasons. The overlap handball was on whenever possible and the movement ahead of the ball was worlds apart from our stagnant forward lines of the Goodwin era. Mistakes were made but they just kept having a crack which was nice to see. 

In the second half/third quarter, the first choice defense and forwards played against each other and the contest became much more even. Unfortunately Culley came off hurt and stopped the play for a while. The boys were clearly getting fatigued by this point and the pace of the game had reduced noticeably.  Wrapped up the 3 qtr and it looked like there were back to running drills so I headed to work. 

My main concern today was just how many VFL top up players were out there and how many of our squad were on the sidelines. Hopefully no more injuries to come and we can get a few back before round 1. Overall it looked like a solid hit out and I am excited for what season might bring. I am not sure how we will go this year as it's hard to know how this style and the list will measure up against real opponents. But either way we are going to be much more exciting to watch in 2026!

Individual Notes: Just a summary of a few notes I took during the day:

Harvey Langford – Looked strong and composed, although It looked to me like he played majority on the wing today and drifted forward and only occasionally went inside. Might not be a starting mid just yet, but I am convinced he will be our best-player at some stage.

Xavier Lindsey – Seems to have Bowser's job for now and at times showed he has very similar class. Took most of the kick ins for the Blues and offered great distribution out of defensive 50. Looks very comfortable back there, though he did shank one straight to the opposing Jeffo at one point though which was horrid. 

Xavier Taylor - looks so sure of himself out there. Full of confidence and personality, at one point he jokingly told Jared Rivers to call him either “Redge or Daddy.” Looks like a Round 1 lock to me. Super exciting addition, Gave me Vlasutin vibes.  

Jed Adams – I was very impressed by his foot skills for a big man. He was on the seconds team but had some nice moments. Closed a large distance at full pace for a desperate last minute spoil on the wing that was very nice. Got a bunch of cheers from the lads. 

Tommy Mathews – very impressive given limited preseason and last year’s injury. I feel he will play senior footy at some point this year. Hard to describe what it was about him but he just has that AFL gun small forward look to him. Something about the way he pumps those legs. Dare I say “Nick Watson like”. Could be an absolute steal for the pick we used. 

Koltyn Tholstrup – busy and impactful for both teams. Definitely not one to write off. Did some great stuff both offensively and defensively. He probably isn't in the same talent category as XL, XT Windsor and Langford but he is coming along nicely in my view. Also love the energy and spirit that he plays with.

Caleb Windsor – looking very sharp and using his pace well. Not sure he is a first possession guy, but he was used a few times as second position and no one could catch him. He is going to be so fun to watch this year. Kicked a nice long bomb from a CBA and looks ready to take his game to the next level. I don't think he will ever be an elite user of the ball but with that leg speed he probably doesn't need to. Impressive today, hope he can bring that output into the season consistently. 

Oscar Berry – far better than expected for someone just coming into the system. Keeping a lid on it for now but he looked like the best Category B rookie I've seen in red and blue by some margin. Took kick ins for Grey and got involved in general play. used the ball quite well too. One to watch.

Moose Heath – Looked very strong in the air and was involved in general play quite consistently. I am normally against playing 2 rucks but from what I saw today I feel like gawn playing ruck/def and Moose playing Ruck/fwd would be worth a trial. Huge man.

Trent Rivers – Probably BOG for me, worked his [censored] off to find space and provide the next link all day. Used the ball well and must have kicked 3-4 goals by my count. Ready to be one of the main men this year. Make him VC!

Blake Howes – started down back with the blue squad but later in the sim he was played on the wing vs Onley. I must say he looked really comfortable and at home there. Looked like a completely different player. I overheard some of the coaches and players chatting about it and they were also impressed. I wouldn't mind him staying there and developing his game to be a tall running wingman as we have enough mid/tall defender depth and I don't think there's a spot for him back there. Promising signs. 

Jai Culley - This dude is massive. Really looks like he belongs with the key position players at his height. Thought he was solid in the guts without being a standout today. Come off after a solid tackle holding what looked like his wrist. Didn't look good but hopefully it's not too bad. 

JVR - Looks super fit, He was covering the ground much smoother and at one point had a big hard run down the wings taking a few bounces. I had to double take as I had not seen that from him before. 

Disco, Tmac, Lever - Solid as a rock these 3. I expect Petty will take the Tmac’s spot at some point but the loss of May won't hurt us at all. These blokes have it covered and all 3 are real leaders out there. Lots of “F*%K Yeahs” coming from Rick today as he encourages the young lads. He is by far the most vocal out there and he himself is looking fit and rejuvenated. 

Gawn - Just cruising. Still kicked the ball too much for my liking and needs to use the overlap hands more often but what can you say about Gawny. In second gear all day and still looking great. GOAT!

Jack Steele – So reliable and efficient. Looks and plays like a bloke who has mastered his craft. His experience and leadership will be huge for the kids moving forward. Great pickup and stopgap to reduce the impact of losing Clarry and Trac. 

Matt Jefferson - I should start by saying I have never been a Jeffo fan boy and had mentally moved on from the thought that he had much to offer us moving forward……However! I must admit he looked very good and impressed me in patches today. He is starting to look like he believes he can play the level and I saw a desperation in his game today that I had not seen before. Don't get me wrong he is never going to be the bloke who drops in front of a pack or put his head over the ball and busts through an opponent but he convinced me today that he definitely has something to offer us.

GATOR'S MATCH SIMULATION OBSERVATIONS

Rivers kicked 3 that I saw. All from set shots.

Heath battled hard against Gawn and took a couple of nice marks.

Howes was good. Got a lot of it and was strong in the air.

I thought Rivers, Windsor and Langford were the standouts.

Culley did his arm in the last few minutes.

The forwards play a very high press. There was often no-one in one half of the ground. Lots of switching and short passes to retain control combined with long down the line when needed. Lots of quick play and ball movement that occasionally came unstuck. We'll be trying to get out the back towards goal quite a lot.

Mihocek, van Rooyen and Jefferson all had their moments without starring.

Fritsch is a different player from last year, but you already knew that.

Sparrow was good.

Plenty took turns in the centre square.

Standing in the back pocket on the boundary line with Salem and Jiath while watching proceedings, Jarrad Rivers yelled out to Rick (Lever) about his positioning. Once play had moved up field Xavier Taylor turned around and yelled out to Rivers, "were you calling me "? Rivers shook his head. Taylor then nodded before saying, "call me Reg, or you can call me Daddy". Needless to say there were howls of laughter with Rivers telling Salem you're going to have to get that boy under control. He then told Petty the story of how Taylor told him to call him Daddy, before lamenting he gets enough grief at home.

Just a solid hitout with some good bits of play interspersed with some errors. I think Mihocek will be very important and a handy pick up, notwithstanding his age.

I left thinking we'll get a lot more of an even performance than the last couple of years and that I have no real clue how we'll go. I actually doubt we'll be worse and have a sneaky suspicion we could surprise a little to the upside. Pity I didn't see Latrelle.

I should add that Windsor's kicking was very good. We all know it's not always. I suspect his kicking is linked to his body health.

I'm not a fan of Tholstrup but thought he was one of the better players on the ground. He got quite a lot of it and used it pretty well. I find him a fumbler but only saw that once. It was my first preseason viewing but he looked noticeably better to me.

Salem ran laps at a good pace and seemed unhindered. He didn't take place in any of the match sim.

LACE OUT LARRY'S MATCH SIMULATION OBSERVATIONS

Lost count how many Rivers dobbed

Jefferson took some nice marks

Thought Berry looked good

The forward line looked more cohesive and Mihocek plays a good leading role there … good teacher

Langford kicked a pearler from outside 50. But something tells me that is regulation.

All of them looked sharp. No real standouts besides Rivers

A really searching session with drills after the match component.

MATT DEMON'S MATCH SIMULATION OBSERVATIONS

Culley injured, arm/shoulder. Using his jumper as a sling as he walks off into the rooms.

Confirmed by Troy Chaplin it's a broken arm, will have a plate put in and should only miss a couple of weeks.

TRENT KNIESE FROM NINE NEWS PROVIDED SOME TIDBITS FROM THE FIRST QUARTER OF THE MATCH SIMULATION

Melbourne match sim notes:

- Serious concerns with Jack Viney. Walked a few laps with Tom Campbell (who’s still in a neck brace) before sitting on the bench and putting sunnies on. Achilles injury is worse than first thought. Demons injury report on Jan 14 said “We expect him to return to full training in the next few weeks.” Almost a month on and he hasn’t progressed. He isn’t playing any time soon. Former captain still showing his love and passion for the club, helping coach from the sidelines and at quarter time.

- Steven May still on leave from Dees.

- Kysaiah and Latrelle Pickett absent, the pair are in Alice Springs for a marketing campaign with Northern Territory Tourism.

- Changkuoth Jiath didn’t take part in match sim and instead completed a running session. As did Jake Melksham, Christian Salem, Harrison Petty and Shane McAdam.

1st QTR: The Dees have stacked the defence and forward line for team blue, but are keeping it reasonably even in the midfield. Tom McDonald played in deep defence with Jake Lever on team blue. Daniel Turner down back also. Harvey Langford (spent time on wing), Jai Culley, Ed Langdon, Brody Mihocek and Jacob Van Rooyen other names on Blue. Team White includes, Max Gawn, Jack Steele and Trent Rivers.

QTR TIME: Blue: 5.4.34 to White 2.1.13

MFC REPORT ON THE MATCH SIMULATION

melbournefc.com.au

The below match report has been produced by Melbourne Media, and does not represent the views of the club or coaching staff. 

SPEED machine Caleb Windsor has pushed his case for a place in the Demons midfield with an eye-catching match simulation showing at Casey Fields.

The former No. 7 selection in the 2023 National Draft showcased a clean pair of heels as he repeatedly burst free from stoppage for three early goal assists.

A running bomb from 50 rounded out his afternoon as the 20-year-old looks to cement a place in the guts after finishing 2025 in the middle.

Skipper Max Gawn returned to match play after a stint on the sidelines with a finger fracture, proving his fitness for next Saturday’s AFL State of Origin.

New Demon Max Heath took it right up to the eight-time All Australian, using his large frame to great effect in and around the stoppages.

Brody Mihocek made his first match simulation appearance after overcoming a toe injury dating back to last year’s finals series with the Magpies.

The veteran forward paired well with Jacob van Rooyen ahead of the ball, providing a target down the line and kicking two goals across three terms of action.

The 22-year-old van Rooyen was everywhere as he continued his strong pre-season campaign, looking mobile and athletic as he presented again and again.

The midfield battle was a juicy one as Windsor, Langford, Steele, Culley, Rivers, Sparrow and Tholstrup locked horns, rotating between blue and white sides each term.

Trent Rivers showcased his ability to be a damaging playmaker through the middle, pouncing on back half turnovers to kick three majors.

Langford and Steele were busy as they racked up the football on the inside.

Daniel Turner looked the goods down back, taking a number of intercept grabs alongside Blake Howes who also turned in an impressive performance.

Bayley Fritsch (four goals) was the top goalscorer for the afternoon, with his clinical finishing around goals always threatening.

Harry Sharp was another Demon to return to the fray after suffering a hamstring injury late last year, using his pace to get free and put the finishing touches on some highlight plays.

First-year draftee Tom Matthews also got his first taste of the action after arriving at the club with a meniscus injury last year.

The zippy small forward showed run and carry and managed to finish the three terms with a goal on the board.

Ed Langdon ran hard on the wings, using his trademark engine to push from goalsquare to goalsquare and find himself out the back of the play for two goals.

Ricky Mentha, Kysaiah and Latrelle Pickett were all absent from training as they visit Alice Springs on a club community trip.

Total Goals

Fritsch 4, Rivers 3, van Rooyen, Chandler, Langford, Mihocek, Langdon 2, Mathews, Gawn, Windsor

DEMONLAND'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

The sun is shining and the heat is rising!!!!

The boys in red guernseys are making their way onto Gosch’s Paddock.

Max does not have the big brace on his hand. It is now just taped.

Petty is no longer in the fluoro “no contact” hat. Kentfield is still wearing the fluoro hat.

Absent: May, Viney (arrived later), Bowey, McAdam, White.

Salem and Henderson doing warmups with the squad.

Campbell still in neck brace on the boundary watching on.

Viney has arrived in non-guernsey training gear.

CJ has some kind of compression band around his quad/hamstring.

He is in what appears to be a smaller rehab/RDO group doing warmups consisting of Salem, Melksham, Laurie and Johnson.

First drill about to start so we will get to see who is actually in the rehab groups.

Midfield drill:

Max, Langford, Lindsay, Chandler

Heath, Pickett, Sparrow, Onley

Rehab: Salem, Melksham, CJ, AJ, Henderson & Laurie

Rivers doing separate work away from the group with Selwyn Griffiths.

Runs and picks up a stationary ground ball and then sells candy around one of the stationary metal men.

The players in the midfield drill have now changed with Max and Heath still rucking.

Culley Kolt & Windsor vs Steele, Langdon, Trelly.

Very aggressive one vs one drill on far side of the ground.

Other drill: Players line up to kick to a leading forward running towards the kicker with one defender on his tail and another defender to his side as an interceptor. Immediately after that play another player will kick to that forward who has now tried to get out the back of the two defenders heading towards goal.

Steele has come off and taken the boots off and put on runners. Watch this space.

Half court match SIM has started.

Kentfield and Petty not taking part and doing one on one work with a trainer.

AMW also not taking part.

Half court match SIM is simulating a very congested field of play. Goal is find space in congestion.

Steele running laps as is CJ and now Kentfield and Petty running laps together.

Salem, Melksham, Henderson, AJ & AMW working with a trainer. Going across ground one of them will kick to a guy in the middle and run past for a handball and kick to the next guy on the other side of the ground.

Steele is back training with the main group.

Wing to wing through the middle of the ground Match SIM drill. 9 vs 9. Three teams swapping out every 6 to 8 mins. Fast ball movement.

Matthews and Mihocek not taking part in this drill. Neither is Heath who has been running laps during the drill.

Mihocek and Matthews are now running laps together.

Players are now doing sprints along the boundary from half back to the forward pocket goal posts in groups of 5 or 6.

DEESPENCER'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Nice warm blustery Northerly blowing which is testing the players control on their kicking.

Impressed by how quickly Oscar Berry has improved his kicking and trimmed up.

Watching Disco mark a footy even in a fairly simple kick to kick drill is a pleasure to see. Such easy hands.

Centre bounce practice under the eye of Russian and Jones.

Heath, Pickett, Sparrow, Onley

Gawn, Langford, Lindsay, Chandler

2021 it is not

Heath, Culley, Windsor, Kolt

Gawn, Steele, Langdon, Trell

Next rotation in if you didn’t like the first 6!

Really nice ruckman in the hole mark from Heath. 2 now actually.

Gawn sitting out around the arc as the attacking team ruck.

Windsor run and ping from 50 - touched

Gawn and Langford dropping in at 40 for marks and set shots the other attempts so far

Onley drift down from the wing to the pocket for a mark and goal just now

Long pause for some extra hydration including some icy poles so that’s enough for me.

Tommy Campbell coming back across the river, must’ve gone for a walk around the tan which woukd be far more pleasant than laps of the oval.

THIRTY ONE'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Match sim using only half the ground. Very congested.

Petty and Kentfield running the boundary. Still in footy boots. Presumably precautionary, they don't need another concussion.

Another match sim, much less congested, wing to wing. A bunch are watching on. Tommy Matthews was doing a bit of ball gathering and snaps at goal.

Just swapped groups. Disco in the back line.

Other group is playing keepings off, pretty easy when there's four defenders and eight on the other side.

Trelly is going to be an interesting pickup. He did some pretty nuts fending off and feinting during that last match sim.

Training finished before midday!

A few are doing some extra drills.

WAYNE WUSSELL'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Got there at 10:00, stayed for 90 mins. Thank you to Demonland, Dee Spencer, thirty-one and all contributors for covering the finer details.

My observations:

I was looking forward to covering the amazing progress of Steven May in his return to full back ... and alas, that didn't happen, and by some suggestions, it might not happen for some time. So, I concentrated on the progress of other backmen present. Petty spent quite a bit of time running. He looked pretty good. When joining in with the main group he was solid without being a standout.

Oscar Berry was very effective in reading the play and spoiling the leading forward. He is definitely showing the benefits of a solid block of training. He is a little taller than I thought, has a strong build with a low centre of gravity. He shows confidence in his kicking skills.

Ditto for AMW. The other players delight in his ability to defend the in-coming passes to a forward on the lead. He is in my starting 23!

Xavier Taylor is a great competitor, is quick to recover and elusive with ball in hand ... he’s progressing well!

Christian Salem spent all of his time in rehab while I was there, but doesn't look to have any serious issues.

Jed Adams participated in all the drills. Steady without being a standout.

Tom McDonald and Daniel Turner were the best of the key backs. I now have both of them in my starting 23.

Jake Lever is looking much fitter than last season. He does not seem to be troubled by ankle or foot pain. He still looks in a little discomfort when required to bend down for the ground-ball gather.

Moving on to the rest ...

Bayley Fritsch is near unbeatable in the lea /get out the back routine. He is set for a very good 2026.

Max Heath was outstanding in the air, particularly down back as others have noted. He is a big kick and is the best competition for Max in the ruck due to Campbell's injury.

Which brings me to Max ... still a magician in getting either hand to the ball first and directing the play from the ruck contests.

Kozzie is superb in everything he does!

Jai Culley, Ed Langford, Caleb Windsor & Trent Rivers are consistently among the best on the training track.

With some important names still in part or full-time rehab, Koltyn Tholstrup looms as a handy replacement. He has completed almost all of pre-season and he is showing that he has good pace, strength over the ball and improved disposal.

Brodie Mihochek and Jack Steele are doing all the positive things we recruited them for... great additions!

My final word goes to Matt Jefferson. He was the best of the key forwards today and is showing signs of becoming a much more reliable mark on a fast lead.

DANNY Z'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Latrelle Pickett is so dynamic. An awesome fend/ shrug followed by an agile baulk with about 5 minutes left in the session capped off an exciting effort. Hope it was captured by the media team for those not in attendance.

I haven't seen this before but there were times when Jeffo was aggressive.

Someone on the forums called Kolt unfit in another thread. He dominated the running at the end and even had Sharp covered. He might not have impacted as much as we'd of liked but he definitely isn't unfit.

BACK POCKET'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Went down to Gosch's at about 10:30 and stayed until the end. Very blustery conditions. I'll try not to repeat too much of what has been said above. Will attempt to call things as I saw them rather than with rose coloured glasses on.

 General comments:

• Matty Scarlett - impressed with the spoiling drill he was running. Defenders were learning to spoil the ball in a targeted direction (all 360 degrees around them) to a spot of our team's advantage.

• All our new recruits from other clubs seemed to have their workloads managed at times today (CJ, Mihocek, Steele, Heath). Not sure if this a workload thing due to their clubs playing later into the year then us.

• Half field match play drill focusing on entering into the 50. Looking to hit short kicks inside 50. Start by kicking around the back of the 50 to try create new angles to enter.

• I thought our kicking was very sloppy today. The wind would have played a big factor though. Happy to let them off.

• No full ground match sim unfortunately. Hard to get too much of a read on things.

• Big fan of the full team Zooper Dooper break at the halfway mark.

 Player specific notes:

• Latrelle, Kolt, Langdon - some of the names involved in the midfield stoppage drill when I arrived. Interesting to see.

• Max Heath - terrific in the air. Took a few very strong marks pushing back deep into defense. Gee he's a big lad as well.

• Riv - seemed to be working with the backs when I arrived.

• Jeffo - reads the ball very well in the air. Doesn’t necessarily like the contact, but he might not have to if he can get himself into the right spots.

• Gawny - back in the action!

• Matthews - good to see him out there after being held back for most of the offseason. I am excited to see him in proper match sim. Have a feeling he could turn into something (based off nothing so far except a vibe).

• JVR - Slimmed down and looks very athletic. In for a big year.

• Berry - doesn't seem out of place as a Cat B rookie.

• Culley - didn't stand out as much as previous sessions. Has set a very high bar for himself though.

• Windsor - impressive shutdown spoil on Koz. His run and carry slightly less prominent today.

• Sparrow -  sets standards. Tough. Strong tackles and laying smothers.

• X.Lindsay and Disco - wasn't their day by foot. A few errors each.

• Latrelle -  dancing feet. Magical.

• X.Taylor - makes things happen out of the back half.

• Viney - looks a while away. His brother Max was also helping out with training.

• Steele - will be an important player for us in the middle (especially with Viney out). People shouldn't write him off. Looks good.

• Sharp - heavily involved with his run. Looked good. He'll need to tidy up his disposal though, especially if he only gets the ball so many times in a game.

• Lever - have been critical of him in the past always for only having one mode (bombing the ball down the line). Good to see him looking to hit shorter targets and keep possession of the ball.

• Mentha - not a standout session, but definitely looks much improved and more involved than last year.

• Koz - Koz

Bloody keen for the year!

FRITTA AND TURNER'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

As I exited Richmond station and was walking towards Punt Rd a woman asked me what bus do you catch to the MCG? Was keen to answer 31 but.....

One thing I have noticed about training this year is that the coaches are setup and in position well before the players hit the track.

Very strong wind blowing across the ground.

TMc first out with the Roo.

Absent White, McAdam, Bowey and May. (Ghosty still on holidays)

Henderson not wearing a rehab outfit and got a massive cheer from the squad as he ran past the group.

Viney and Campbell in rehab tops; Viney watched on and Campbell walked. Everyone else in training gear.

Vineys brother conducted a wrestling/grappling drill. They do look alike.

CJ had some strange velcro bandage? on his leg for a very short time.

CJ, Kentfield, Petty, AMW, Melky, Steele, Salem sometimes ran the boundary

Rivers had some minor discussion with a trainer and did some extra drills.

Ed did some weird stretching exercise in the goal square which turned out to be 'watering the sands...'

Tom Matthews took part.

Chappy yelling out positioning advice to XT during a sim.

Fritta played like his opponent was Easton Wood.

Kossie is so good sometimes I reckon he should not participate in some of the sims.

Jeffo looking better and better at each training session. Playing with confidence.

As the kids are back at school the track watchers have a veteran look about them.

KEV'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Some thoughts about the training in blustery and humid conditions.

Plenty of kicks missing the mark.

They are competing and tackling with intensity. The sim in the 50 arc was a 15 minute example. They began with 4 defenders (one sitting deep) and 3 attackers outside the 50. The other 29 were inside the 50. Most of the time two attackers went into the 50 and left the defenders to get multiple re-entries after the ball exited. Most exits were scrambles as the forwards poured on the pressure in tight areas. They had some stoppages in the 50 and Heath managed some good taps. Gawn used his match awareness to find separation outside 40 meters. Plenty of backward ball movement by the forwards as they reached for space. Plenty of snaps and some marks. I was worried for them again as they competed with gusto. Kossie tackling Culley with a front on hit had me gasping. The intensity was high though only the clean and those with peripheral vision succeed.

The field sims from wing to wing lasted 8 minutes × 3 sessions, across 3 teams. There were also hats confining the game to about 60 meters across

Most of it seemed to emphasise a central game, getting possession, spreading 15 meters and looking for a lead off the back. The defenders had hard time finding leads through the middle. The best they could do was hit up a straight lead that had a hard, one on one.

Kolty was fumbly and switched off when it was easy.

Turner works well, I think he is a King favourite.

Steele makes great decisions.

Kossie is great to watch. The three of, Koss, Mentha, and Latrelle were unstoppable.

I want to see more of Mathews, he is having trouble getting involved.

HARVEY WALLBANGER'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Absent: May (now announced publicly) Bowey, McAdam (see below) and White (?).

Rehab - looking some time away, Bowey, McAdam (see above) Viney, Campbell (walking only in neck brace) and Henderson (although he began running today to a great cheer from the main group).

Rehab - but not too worried - Salem, CJ, Laurie, Melksham, Johnson.

Gawn, Matthews and Sharp back in business today and Rivers (as reported on) doing some work away from the group, but looks OK.

That leaves 38 of the 44 still fit and available if my "not too worried" boys come good.

Comments: MAY I agree that from what we have seen at training so far May was not in the first 23 anyway - TMac, Turner and Lever ahead - with Adams available if necessary.

AMW - seems to be following his program, reckon he plays on Feb 20, if not before, maybe in the intra-club.

Worry about small backs - see above re AMW, Howes, CJ and I still prefer Rivers back (given we have so many other mid-field options)

The interesting issue for me is whether anyone is moved to the LTI group pre-season. This time last year Culley was training the house down and he was lucky enough to take AMW's spot at the last moment. I did not see any train-on players there today....

DEMONLAND'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

PRESENT: May, JVR, Langford, Lindsay, Windsor, Lever, Steele, Turner, Gawn, Tholstrup, Culley, CJ, Langdon, Laurie, Taylor, Matthews, Jefferson, Howes, Rivers, McDonald, Adams, Heath, Mihocek, Sharp, Fritsch, Sparrow, Trelly, White, Petty (yellow hat), Kozzy, Chandler, Berry, Mentha, Onley, Johnson, Kentfield (yellow hat), AMW

REHAB: Salem, Viney, Melksham, McAdam, Henderson, Bowey (bikes & water boy)

ABSENT: Campbell (arrived late still in a neck brace)

Petty’s Back!!!

Petty & Kentfield in the fluoro hats.

Assume that Petty may have had concussion which is why hasn’t been at training.

First drill after the warmup has two separate groups on either wing between the 50m arcs doing a drill where the order of the day is very fast ball movement and playing on at all costs.

A third smaller group doing one vs one where the ball kicked high to forward vs defender between May/Lever and JVR/Heath and then swapping which defender is on which forward.

New drill. Players line up to kick to a leading forward running towards the kicker with one defender on his tail and another defender to his side as an interceptor. Immediately after that play another player will kick to that forward who has now tried to get out the back of the two defenders heading towards goal.

Other drill. Keepings off handball drill 10 vs 7.

McAdam who now has taping on his left knee is doing some runs on the boundary with Reece Conca.

Melksham running laps.

Salem working with a trainer doing some light changing directions runs between cones.

Viney doing some light very small two legged bunny hops in a straight line.

Henderson & Bowey on the bikes in the shed.

Players doing 200 metre fast runs in groups of 5 along the boundary.

Perhaps a mini Match SIM about to start.

Max, Petty (yellow no contact hat), Kentfield (yellow no contact hat), Sharp & AMW have peeled off from the group to train separately.

Forwards (Blue): Mihocek, Chandler, Mentha, Fritsch

Defenders (White): May, Howes, Adams, CJ, Taylor

Forwards (White): JVR, Jefferson, Trelly, Matthew, Laurie

Defenders (Blue): Turner, Lever, TMac, Berry

Rucks (Blue): Johnson

Rucks (White): Heath

Mids (Blue): Culley, Kozzy, Rivers Langford

Mids (White): Windsor, Steele, Sparrow, Langdon

Wings (Blue): Onley

Wings (White): Kolt

Match SIM is not a traditional SIM. Mids are setup on the wings with the plays starting either from a loose ball on the wing or from a free kick from half back. Plays are mostly confined to one side of the ground along the wings.

Jefferson running laps at a good clip.

Max, Petty, Kentfield, AMW & Sharp running laps and are not participating in the contact SIM.

THIRTY ONE'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Salo is doing buttsercises and stretches. Melksham and McAdams are in rehab along with Matthews, AMW. Viney has just shown up, in runners. Henderson and Bowey are walking and not in training guernseys.

Matthews has joined the main training group.

Lots of warm ups. Kick to kick, springs, quick off the mark exercises. Kick, handpass kick.

Three groups. Finding space, up and down between the arcs, closer more congested work, forwards contested marking.

So far, the only players who aren't joining the main group are Salem, Melksham, McAdam, Viney, Bowey and Henderson.

Mihochek has joined the main group. I don't remember seeing him in it before.

Pretty sure that Roo just brought Culley down in a great tackle. Looks like keepings off for that group, two defenders on one forward on this side. Finding space and leading is the name of that game.

Jeffo is in runners. Running the boundary.

Pretty sure AMW is here, as is Bowey. Bowser is on the bike right now.

Sharp running the boundary now too.

Jeffo back in the match sim.

Tom Campbell is here, still in neck brace and with kiddo.

Max did a bit of match sim. By the last quarter of it, a few of the players were gassed. They were yelling for Roo to take some centre work but he was off field, cooling off a bit. He did some running and was back out there after a break. After all, not many players do the whole two hours of the game. Same with a few other players, particularly the young blokes.

The match sim often doesn't use the rucks - the "umpire" throws the ball in a random direction and whoever is closest gets possession and starts the sim. Also they played some of it without full forward/pockets/full back at one end.

I think it was a bit of a lighter session. The players would disagree I think.

Also if I heard correctly, there's no training on Friday. The players are on a four day break after today's session.

Reporting on training for Demonland is harder than it looks, especially with a phone that is determined to use the wrong words and change a player's name. Anyway, it wound up at 12:15 with a lot of gassed players.

Happy birthday to Disco Turner!

GREG SCHNEIDER'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Novice track watcher here but was a bit of an ordinary session? Not a whole lot to take out of it or be impressed by. Not sure what I was expecting but felt a bit flat and skills were average. Granted, Ricky Mentha suprised me and could get games on the wing/half forward this year, looks like he’s really improved. Good number of players out on the park, the few in rehab don’t look far away at all so I think we’re doing well in that area.

I’ll also add- JVR looks a different player, in fact I didn’t even realise it was him until halfway through the session because he is moving so much smoother, he looks lighter and more agile, think last year he was too heavy and that was part of the issue, running really well

HARVEY WALLBANGER'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

A bit of repetition but here goes.

All players present but Tom Campbell joined the group in his neck brace, with his kids, towards the end of training.

Those in rehab and looking some way away (6) - Bowey, Henderson, Viney, Melksham, McAdam (a particular concern as he now seems to be heavily favouring his left knee) and Salem (hard to judge what he has done - but doing only very light work today).

Petty and Kentfield in fluoro caps (no contact) and did all the craft work, so no match sim for them, but suggest they are not far away.

Same for Sharp, Gawn and AMW - did most of the drills, but no match sim.

Match sim was interesting - with no Gawn or Campbell, Johnson and Heath do the ruck work. In and under were Steele, Rivers, Lindsay, Windsor, Kosi and Sparrow with Langdon and Culley setting up in one wing position and Langford and Tholstrup (Onley alternating) on the other side.

We may be getting an insight into our mids this year....? Not Culley, not Langford - these two, with Langdon may rotate through the wings...

ENTER SANDMAN 2021'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

The summer training is moving more towards match sim -albeit with a lot of pauses for coaching and reiterating messages to the players. Latrelle was a highlight in the first proper match sim, kicking 3 goals by my count. He seems like a natural crumbing forward who takes his opportunities when they come his way.

There was no clear A and B team today and a lot of positions are still up for grabs. It's unclear as yet who will be the starting midfield - Kossie, Langford, Rivers, Culley, Windsor, Steele, Sparrow, Kolt, Lindsay and Onley all ran through there today and Viney was watching from the sidelines. Most likely we will have more rotation through there in previous years and it is handy that several of those players can also play forward, back or wing as needed. Gawn was mostly working on running.

I really like watching Steele's well rounded game - he has toughness, skills and endurance. He holds himself to a high standard and I think he will quickly become one of our most consistent contributors.
It was good to see Checkers in the first match sim though he took the bike during the second one. I noticed him coaching Kalani at one stage which was good to see. May still strikes me as an important on-field leader and a great kick out of the backline even if his athleticism is starting to wane.

I think this iteration of the team looks best when we are slicing and dicing across the field with pace from Kossie, Windsor, Rivers, Langdon plus guys like CJ and Taylor out of the backline, leading to mismatches and out the back goals in the forward line. With no Petracca, Oliver and Viney injured at the moment its unlikely we will be dominating the inside game each week but that's part of our team's evolution. We are still a work in progress and it will be interesting to see how Steven King reshapes our team - there will certainly be some exciting times this year but also perhaps times where we come up against our limitations.

GEORGE ON THE OUTER'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

As @Greg Schneider noted as a novice track watcher....nothing to see here!

Match Sims are not what we have come to expect or have seen in the past, they seem to be an exercise to work on a particular aspect of ball movement. Starting in the middle, there is a no contest between rucks and the ball just moves freely out. Maybe it is getting forwards to present, but there is no real tackling and because of the lack of numbers on the field you finish with really open forward lines, which would never happen in a real game.....make of it what you will.

But I suspect the main match sims are being conducted behind closed doors at Casey, given the short time to season opener and a new coach trying to implement changes.

I'll go out on a limb now....we will not see McAdam play a game this year. Barely, and I mean barely running, unable to extend one leg fully, and it is the end of January. Today looked even worse as he had a knee bandage on, then off and did the running with much less speed than even last week.

Sadly, we will also see little of Viney. @Demonland mentioned his training is limited to half a dozen bunny hops. No running, not even walking the boundary. When he is finally able to get some running in, with the lack of the ability to do it now for months, means he will take a long, long time to get to necessary fitness levels. The same will inevitably apply to Bowey.

The one thing noted by @thirty-one was correct.....at the end of the session, the players were gassed. All over the field they were on haunches sucking in the big ones. They are obviously being pushed harder than before. After two hours of "sims" and drills they finish with a series of 200m sprints. If it were me, the ambulance would be called.

DEESPICABLE'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Based on what I saw, here's my stab at our team as it stands, minus all the injured players - I included Mihocek in the injured, but he did do most of the match sim today.

This is my fourth pre-season session this year I've attended and my standouts have been - Kossie, Culley, Roo, Windsor and Salem (missing today of course) - but remember these 14 or 15-man style games suit running players who like space.

Defenders (7) - We have lost quite a few of our small brigade and contrary to articles, Moniz-Wakefield would be a long shot to make it in time for Rd 1 as he is still in a graduated rehab phase.

Smalls/Mids - Lindsay (may even do kick-ins if Salem is out for a while), CJ, Taylor and Howes

Talls - Lever, Adams (based on desire to blood him and he does bring closing speed, but T-Mac has looked better and May is clearly better but out of favour), Turner

Midfielders (9 includes ruck) - Based on today Heath gets in, but obviously Gawny is expected to be raring to go well before then.

1st rotation - Pickett (licence), Rivers, Steele; 2nd rotation - Windsor (licence), Sparrow, Langford* (also some wing duties). Wings: Culley, Langdon, Ruck: Heath (Gawn when fit)

Forwards (7) - Roo, Fritsch and Chandler would be first picked and from then it's a bit of a lottery, but I'd expect the excitement of Latrelle will see him named for Rd 1. Personally I'd play May up forward, but that seems unlikely based on the training I've seen. Mihocek would play Rd 1 if fit as well.

Smalls: Chandler, Latrelle. Mids: Fritsch, Tholstrup (just, although Mentha was busy today, but mega fumbly). Talls: JVR (playing lead-up high), Johnson (back up ruck), Jefferson (certainly not my choice, but it seems likely he will be trialled again more from the goalsquare).

Left out based on today, but you'd think will be ready by Rd 1: Gawn, Mihocek, Salem, Petty

Left out but unlikely to be ready by Rd 1: Viney, Melksham, Bowey, AMW.

It's still a very decent side, even with our injuries, and the difference from recent years is that it is a very quick unit. Our issue will be our toughness in the contest, but we will play at breakneck speed.

PS: Bet you I forgot someone!

SALEMS LOT'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

I got along for a bit of the middle session. Watched a very energetic 2 defenders on 1 forward with a midfielder kicking to their lead.

Lever and May pair so well, they shut most of the forwards down

Absolute stand outs were Disco as a defender and Roo and Fritta as forwards. Brody was heavily involved as well. The other one who seemed quite elusive was Bill Lawrie. Not quick but crafty.

Still waiting to see what caused us to pick up Kolt. He is so keen but lacks a bit of class IMHO

Damn they are fit!! They just go and go.

Disappointing lack of soccer balls too.

HERALD SUN *

* summary in comment below

Later in the day, the team assembled for team photos which included photo shots with player sponsors

REDLEG23'S MATCH SIM OBSERVATIONS

Another picture perfect morning down @ Casey☀️👌

Arrived @ 10:15 & you would’ve believe it - THE GATES ARE OPEN!!!🤩First thing of notice, the energy & focus of the boys is super high! 

Rehab:

• McAdam running 100m gaps accompanied by Reece Conca. Best i’ve seen him move. Running at 3/4 pace.

• Adams running the boundary resembling a 50 year old - don’t know what’s the go there but moving very very gingerly early.

• Max, AMW, Sharp, Mihocek & Mathews head across to another field with a trainer. 

• Petty not training at all - whats the go here? Bowey & Vines also in attendance with the latter also not training. 

• Chandler no show

Few drills early then straight into full blown match sim with umpires. Here’s what I saw.

1st QTR: 20mins

• Straight off the jump, Jeffo with a lovely contested pack mark 25 out right in front. Nails the kick & the boys love it🗣️ Jeffo with the first two majors for the game. Fantastic start from the young man. Whites up early.

• The deck @ Casey looks a picture. Carpet like👍

• Kalani White pegs one back with a goal at the other end. First for the  Blues.

• Latrelle & Kozzy in-play connection is evident & deadly!

• Jeffo with another contested grab along the flank. The most confident I’ve seen the kid.

• Deadset SCREAMER from Kozzy👀🤩 You’ll see that on the socials no doubt!!!

• Come on Kolt. Better than that mate. Couple turn over kicks.

• Kozzy’s been magical with just about with every touch so far. Cant be stopped & just too damn good.

• Jeffo again gets separation & marks on the flank. Kick inside 50, lose ball win to Culley, breaks a tackle who then delivers to Luker. White’s with another.

• Crunching tackle from young boy Reg.  Gone HTB!

• Roo getting busy. Assist in the goal square for Bill. Whites up & about

• Latrelle with the front and centre gather at break neck speed on the half forward flank. Boy he’s gonna be fun. 

• Intercept through the mid from Reg (X. Taylor for those who may have missed it) who takes it on immediately with the forward handball to Kozzy. Streams forward with a couple bounces who hits Kolt out the back just about on the line. Goal blues.

• Jeffo running back inside the F50 pocket as he finds seperation again. Mark. Set shot just misses to the right. Been the dominant forward so far.

• Trelly with the dancing feet, bobbing & weaving through traffic. Chefs kiss.

• Reg gets forward & wins the 1-on-1 free. Kicks the set shot like a true back man. Shanks it from 40.

Qtr time: Blues 3.2.20 - Whites 4.3.27

Heath not in match sim. White bib on & been running the boundary at half pace. Not sure whats the go there.

Boys now break into groups of 4 or 5’s running the boundary at a serious clip

2nd QTR: 20mins

• Beautiful contested fly from Leb across the back flank.

• Nice mark from Luker (playing in defence now), shanks the switch kick across the ground which is intercepted by Mentha @ the top of 50 arc & in full flight runs & kicks truly from 50👏 Goal blues.

• Bailey catches Luker HTB, quickly gets it to Kozzy who runs in for the checkside goal.

• Laurie dancing & weaving who then hits Culley centre mid, Culley darts it to Trelly on the lead who marks & nails the set shot from 45.

• Riv looking solid, so too Sparrow.

• Another pressure soccer goal off the deck to Kozz from the top of the goal square. 

• Lever vocal as heck. Love to hear it

• Low deep dart from a running Riley Bonner through the middle. Aiden Johnson with the lovely contested mark 25 out from Goal. Nails it. Well done mate.

• Stoppage LHS on F50. Contested win from Onley. Quick hands to Langford with the beautiful kick across his body from 45. What a beauty!👏

• You can see why the coined Jeffo the name magician. Bit of flair about him & got 3 or 4 now.

• Roo aerial game getting stronger by the minute. Another mark.

• Trelly is a jet people. Sold candy twice deep in F50 then check sides the goal. Lollllll what an excitement machine we have🤩

• Kalani on the right side of a Shane Warne wrongen which falls into his lap, snaps across his body 25 out. He’s got a couple.

• Luker’s had a couple mares across the backline but redeems himself with a beautiful contested pack mark deep in D50. Nice.

• Pup is all class. Wins a ground ball crumb, picks up swivels & kicks the snap from 15 out. 

• Ball’s pinging at serious pace people. Flow state.

• Mentha growing. Looking more comfortable & doing some nice things.

• Blues making a gap in this game now.

• Great to see Sinnema out there & not looking out of place at all. Neet left foot.

• Kolt decision making in contested situations is not to the level… yet.

• Kolt again with the shank to the boundary with no pressure. It was all perceived pressure & that was enough to throw him off… not good signs tbh. 

Half time: forgot to catch the scores

3rd QTR: 20mins

• Noticed that the boys have swapped around a bit. Magnets have been flipped all over the place. Jeffo now in defence, Luker now up forward etc

• Off the opening bounce. Riv with the centre clearance to a leading Luker who marks on the top of the 50. Luker’s real good on the eye when in flight. Thumps it home from 50👏

• Bills clearly got talent, just gotta be given a chance I reckon. Kicks another.

• The transition from Kozzy is amazing. It started with him deep in defence with an outlet kick to the HB Flank. 30 seconds later he marks the ball 35m out from goal & of course he goals again⭐️

• May up forward, kicks a goal & celebrates ah la the Duursma bloke

• An unnumbered small HF named crossy? Looks ok. Kicked a couple

• Sinnema gets on the end of one.

3 QTR time: Blues 10.3.63 - Whites 12.8.80

Now some team running in between the arcs - aim is to get there within 10 seconds. Rest for 10 then back at it again. Over and over again. Boys are gassed.

4th QTR: 10mins

• Stoppage corner F50. Roo in the ruck who body’s his opponent, quick hands to Kozzy at pace, breaks one tackle, avaids and weaves, snaps from 40. Taking the absolute [censored] now ✋ 

• So impressed with Roo today. Another contested mark top of the RHS 50 & bangs it home. Got 3 or 4 now. Looks in rippling nick, hardened & covering the ground beautifuly. 

• Scores level now 81 apiece and the few in attendance are being treated here this morning. 

• Liking what I’m seeing from Bill. Very creative, balanced. Surely he gets a good go at it this year under King.

• Fritta with consecutive goals now.

• In game scenario - 4mins left and a goal up. Aim for a more controlled / tempo game.

• Jeffo got a bag now. 5 at least 👏👏

• For a nice looking kick, Xlindsay has missed a few kicks he would usually nail.

• Another one to Roo

Full Time: Blues 17.3.105 - Whites 15.10.100

Top performers from match sim:

1. Kozzy - everything he did was brilliant, besides one missed target going in 50. But even the play leading to that was brilliant lol

2. Roo - it’s no wonder he’s moving well, he’s super fit. & now he’s hardened. Worked really hard today & got better as the game went on. Got high up the ground many times too. & he was rewarded.

3. Jeffo - was BOG at qtr time. Very crafty & high IQ type guy. Just gotta do start doing it for longer now.

4. Rivers - he was probably my best or most consistent midfielder today. Just looks to be playing with such clear direction now. He’s leadership is growing. He’ll have a good year Riv.

5. Langford - just love the way he plays footy & I love that he kicks goals & fantastic goals too. Strikes me as one of those blokes that loves the grind of it. Got better & better as the game went on.

6. Culley - so strong. Loves breaking a tackle & has no issue breaking them. Was able to get his hands free & give off to runners many times today.

7. Caleb - cutting lines & angles & with that dash like from season one. Kicked the ball well today. Wasn’t afraid to take the risky ones too.

8. Salem - him too, just looks fit & confident again. This would have to have been his best pre season for sometime now wouldn’t it? Really hope his body holds up & allows him to go back to attacking the play like he use to.

It’s now 12:45pm & the boys are still out there busting a gut, but thats me done. 

THE ANALYSER'S MATCH SIM OBSERVATIONS

I was at training today. Couldn't believe how long it went. From 9.30 till after 12.45. Didnt spot Chandler. Also absent was Bowey of course. Campbell only walking in a neck brace. Rehabbers were Viney, Gawn, Melksham, Matthews, McAdam, Heath, Mihocek, Sharp, Petty, Henderson (not sighted). I have no knowledge on their availability.

There were quite a few fill ins.

DEFENDERS: May, Lever, Turner, CJ, Taylor, Howes, TMac, Salem

MIDFIELDERS: Langford, Lindsey, Windsor, Steele, Tholstrup, Culley, Langdon, Laurie, Rivers, Fritsch, Sparrow, Trelly, Kozzy, Onley

FORWARDS: JVR, Jefferson, Johnson, Kentfield - A lot of mids rotating as forwards as well

RUCKS: White, Johnson & JVR

Overall the vibe was good. Lots of talk especially Lever. May instructing a lot.

Stand outs: Roo was great Lawrie did well! Culley was great Kosi exceptional

Was awesome to see Stephen King stop plays to instruct groups of players clearly. Was a lovely morning!

Lots of flexibility with players. Big improvers in Roo, Culley and Jefferson (at one stage was marking very well and kicking quite a few goals)

Match simulation report | Jefferson turns heads

This one’s from the MFC Website 🖕

DEMONLAND'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Present: May, JVR, Salem, Langford, Lindsey, Windsor, Viney (red jumper but in rehab ) Lever, Steele, Turner, Gawn, Tholstrup, Culley, CJ, Langdon, Laurie, Melksham (blue rehab gear), Taylor, Matthews, Jefferson, Howes, McAdam, TMac, Adams, Heath, Mihocek, Campbell (neck brace), Sharp, Fritsch, Sparrow, Pickett, White, Pickett, Chandler, Berry, Mentha, Onley, Johnson, Henderson, Kentfield, AMW.

Rehab: Viney, Mihocek, Melksham, Henderson, McAdam

Absent: Bowey (made an appearance later in the session), Petty & Rivers

The lights are on at Gosch’s Paddock.

Mentha, Adams & Berry doing some extra fast running with Selwyn Griffiths.

Rest of the team doing their warmups.

Laurie has the fluro hat on meaning no contact. He has a glove on his left hand.

JVR has his left knee bandaged and is with a trainer away from the main group warmups.

JVR resumes training in the warmup.

Sharp did all the warmups with the main group but is now running laps as they start training proper. He rejoined for most of the training drills but he and a few other mentioned later did not participate in the "Match Simulation" drills.

Just to clarify, when we refer to “Match SIM” we’re talking about larger drills that mirror match-like conditions, not a full 18-v-18 practice match played across the whole ground. Full-ground Match SIM or Practice Match sessions are typically held during closed sessions at Casey Fields.

Any time I refer to “Match SIM” in my report, it generally means a drill designed to replicate the random, match-like chaos of a game situation, usually on a smaller scale, rather than a structured craft type drill.

The group has split into a 4 different groups for different craft drills which has split the squad into their line positions.

1. Midfield Drill in the Centre Square - Max, Heath, Steele, Langford, Kolt, Pickett, Langdon, Windsor, Culley, Onley, Sparrow

2. Key Forwards and Defenders - The Ball is kicked up to a one on one forward vs defender grappling with a second defender coming in for the punch spoil - JVR, Turner, Adams, Lever, Jefferson, TMac, May, Kalani, May, Kentfield

3. Small Forwads snapping for goal from various positions - Trelly, Laurie, Chandler, Matthews, Mentha, Fritsch

4. Half backs Drill - Howes, AMW, Taylor, CJ, Salem, Lindsay taken by Jared Rivers.

This breakup of players into their lines gives you a good indication of where players are likely to lineup.

So far Matthews has participated in all the drills. Not sure whether he will participate in the contact/match Sim type drills but he can’t be too far away from integrating back.

McAdam and May are running fast laps separately with different trainers.

The group has now split into 3 or 4 random groups of players for different types of keepings off drills. Some with just handballs in a more confined area and others in a larger area with kicking. All players cycle through in their groups to all the different drills that are set up around the ground.

Mihocek running laps.

Melksham and Henderson are on the bikes in the shed.

Some type of “Match SIM” about to start. It will be interesting to see who doesn’t participate as it will tell where some are at in terms of full training participation.

May and McAdam still running laps.

Matthews has left the field and is running laps.

Max and Heath doing a grappling marking drill and AMW, Laurie and Sharp are crumbing and kicking it to a leading Mihocek.

CJ and JVR doing half laps.

There is a small group of 8 (4 vs 4) doing a confined space keepings off handball drill and another larger group (9 vs 9) doing a “Match SIM” type drill confined to the middle third of the ground from wing to wing.

The "Match SIM" drill has very fast ball movement and there is a lot of crossing to the other side of the field of play as they attempt to bring the ball from one end to the other.

There are 3 groups. The two teams currently competing in the "Match SIM" and the other group doing the keepings off handball drill. Periodically one of the teams in the "Match SIM" is switched out with the team doing the keepings off handball.

Max, Heath, Sharp, McAdam & AMW all running laps now.

Most of the group doing short running interval sprints around the boundary in groups of 5.

And that’s a wrap from me. I’ll be back next Wednesday and I’ll give my impressions then of each individual player.

HARVEY WALLBANGER'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Absent: Rivers and Petty (Bowser turned up, which was nice).

Of the rehabbers, I'll take an educated stab on availability:

Far Away - Bowey (of course) Viney, McAdam, Henderson, Campbell (still in neck brace and walking only)

Getting Closer - Matthews, Mihocek, Laurie, Melksham, Gawn

Almost there - Sharp, AMW.

JVR had a bandage on his knee and looked a little proppy today. Luker Kentfield seemed to also have a sore foot, but I would not classify them as rehabbers - just two to watch.

These Wednesday sessions seem like "craft" sessions so we don't see full-on match sims, just many different drills, goal-kicking, etc...

Track-watchers view of "training the house down category" Culley, Fritsch, Windsor, with Trelly Pickett the stand-out of the new boys. Getting a little excited about what Matthews might be able to do as he increases the activities he can particpate in, and with Bowey's absence, Taylor's chances of being in the Round 1 team probably increasing.

So many mid-fielders to choose from - have almost forgotten about the old numbers 5 and 13.....

DANNY Z'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

My observations

Standouts:

Steele - performs every action with intent and professionalism. His kicking was sharp and his transition from attack to defence was elite.

Culley - his aerial presence is a standout. What his added is driving his legs out of contested situations.

Kentfield - presents at the kicker with intensity and follows up his work on the ground well for his size.

Chandler - goes under the radar in such reports but he trains at a high level, does the basics incredibly well. His forward craft like snap kicks and defensive pressure look stronger than ever.

Windsor - his 2 steps before he kicks have slowed and this is helping his execution. Looks more balanced. His flair and confidence are high. Ceiling is huge.

Fritsch - his leading patterns and evasiveness were at times unplayable to the defender he was opposed. Will be suited to the faster game plan in being able to find space in the 50.

Not to be overly negative but a couple of things I did notice also:

Howes provides great overrun lap from behind but doesn’t think of ‘what’s next’ when he runs to a certain area so the chain dies out.

Langford for his many positives which have been noted throughout the pre season does often take a second to long with ball in hand.

Salem was uncharacteristically sloppy with the footy a couple of times.

Ricky Mentha has some super high level moments of speed or skill but will just as quickly lapse in concentration.

I’ll finish by saying that I feel for Shane McAdam. Two of his three years here spent running laps and watching his mates kick the footy. I hope he gets a chance to show his ability this season at some point.

KEV'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Beautiful morning at Gosch’s, good temp, no wind.

Plenty of power on show as they go against each other. There is some care being shown (not as forceful in tackles as pre Christmas hits). That sense of trepidation for this tracker as they close down each other in contests near to the spectators. A tension exist to the possibility of injury, passes my thoughts.

They were serious and professional again, except one stage earlier on, they gathered in a circle which ended in rapturous applause and joy.

The goal kicking has been integrated into the warm up drills. Smaller groups, with kicks over the mannequin or a snap after bouncing the ball off the mini trampoline. Only a few kicks from the boundary. Plenty going through or close to the goal. A few of the longer snaps ending anywhere.

The sim ran cross field and with very small width. I get a sense that the boundary line is the enemy. My guess is that the ball will move quickly through the middle and most congestion will be in the forward or back 50 arc.

Ball movement was very angular, rarely a straight down the line hit up unless it was a small pass to open the field up.

Plenty of forward leads off the back of the defender.

The defenders checked closely through the middle and their intensity was up.

It was all watched closely by King, who continues to voice his teachings when needed or appropriate.

WAYNE WUSSELL'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Thanks to all the track watchers. I was there as early as Berry and left 90 minutes later. The reports above have been comprehensive and I have little to add...

I enjoyed the competitive forward lead to a pass, and midfielder trying to hit the target. For me, Roo and Fritsch were head and shoulders as forwards. Roo hits the ball at pace, with strength, and is showing signs of stickier fingers this year.

Steele and Kolt were the best of the kickers in this activity... the former at 100% or close to it.

Jefferson and Kalani were clever getting out the back, as others have pointed out, but neither have the hustle and bustle of JVR

It was good to see McAdam able to do more than run laps. He is progressing!

May will be an important player again in 2026. He is getting fitter every session and rumours of his demise are exaggerated

Langdon was a standout today

Don't think we will see Melksham or Viney in round 1

McDonald continues to be the most consistent spoiler in 1 on 2 'defend the lead' activity

Heath is looking more competitive in the aerial contests and more confident in belonging

Sharp is the fastest hammy patient I have ever witnessed!

DEEFENCE'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Just a small observation but Harvey Langford pulled off a very cool J’ai Ali move where he was kicked the ball and he caught it his left hand behind his body and in a scooping motion spun it around to the front of his body washing off the momentum in the movement while the ball looked superglued to his hand. So nonchalant So exciting.

Other than that The new Pickett was moving nicely in Sim play, Kolt still rushes things. CJ has the skinniest ankles I have ever seen, Jefferson can strike the ball but sadly I don’t see him coming on with his defensive mindset, just not a see ball get ball type. Langdon excelled in the fwd 50 entry drill (kicking to a player marked by 2 others) Chin impresses in training , most thrill moment was watching Xavier T break two tackles from best 20 players including one from Kossie that had intent, kid is an assassin, top 5 rising star and plays Round 1.

GREAT SAGE'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Watched the entire session today. Key takeways;

• Culley: Lived up to the preseason hype

• Kozzie: Looked a class above

• Steele: Often involved & did not miss a kick.

• Trelly: Found space in forward drills and some nice tackles.

• Windsor: Had his kicking boots on and they were working.

• Luka: Some good grabs, wont be surprised if he gets games.

• Moose: Is a beast.

• Jeffo: Hot and cold. Has nice soft hands.

• Fritta: Fit and energized.

• Kalani: Looked good for a very raw kid.

• Kolt: Showed a bit in match sim.

• Max: Punched ball over the boundary and coached spectator to watch the ball into his hands :).

• Coaches: Good drills with lots of instruction.

TOLSTOYS NUDGE'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Oscar Berry first player out on track & Matty Scarlett is here raring to go with I’m looking fwd to seeing 1st hand.

McAdam is in attendance.

Recovery atm: Viney, Hendo, Checkers, McAdam & Melky doing handballs with Jonesy.

Spoke to Richo who said next week or so Mihocek will be in some contact drills.

Side note: Matthews is looking better literally by the touch — agreed slow as you’d expect but is already showing flashes of being bake to do the one-touch things so many players just can’t do!

Both Kolt and Jefferson showed some TRULY great signs today. KOLT looks a new man physically and seems to have matured— pressure solid and kicking/decisions best I’ve seen it inc penetration.

JEFFO stood out ESP in the pocket leading drills especially in getting separation and his patterns great, held most grabs except a double where there was no pressure, follow-up effort notably looks better, def seems to be in frame for King but needs to keep going as Kentfield is a UNIT, and closing fast — his hands were the best of all today outside Culley.

Kalani was a real surprise — found space in the fwd drills (where kicker has to find 1/2 fwds that are outnumbered by / def — Kalani kept find space out back, took ball at highest point etc — so raw and think that he’s clearly a while away but the talent is Def there and he didn’t look out of place at all!

Great session — best I’ve seen in years.

Ok all — pls see my full training report below largely based on a round-up of individuals I could easily see and felt like watching more than others, but largely I got a good idea of most.

Beautiful day for it at Gosch’s, esp when rain held off. First thing that’s CLEAR = Atmosphere/Vibe has changed dramatically from this time last year and 2yrs previous, the vibe is so much more upbeat, focused & just feels like a lot more is being “coached” rather than just trained, if that makes sense. King’s presence wasn’t felt as much but that’s because he was constantly within earshot of a player, I mean the entire session! Chaplin was def the loudest voice & hearing him give direction and feedback to several players was terrific. Jones ran the rehab group a while & was boisterous, whilst Scarlett’s presence was immense in terms of what he appeared to be passing onto the players, def didn’t feel half baked, it was considered, player specific and just in general he gave a number of tips to our key talks, more so fwds ie leading patterns , how to hold-out in a marking contest, time your wrestling for position in majoring 1/1 etc etc

Ball movement is similar but also very different, much less thinking involved & more fwd momentum, angles etc. Feels like a tweak and honestly the cattle (better kicks) help, as no butchers were out there Trac, Claz and no Viney so it looked super crisp at all times.

Others covered the drills so now here is my player summary;

— Notably missing was Harry & Riv.

— Standouts overall: This one was easy, as there was a definite few that stole the eyes the entire session & they were:

Steele (kicking ELITE in all drills think he missed one kick of the 15+ I saw). From what I saw today he looked like a hybrid of Clarry (inside) and Gus (kicking and IQ). Massively impressed!!!

Leb: (kicking was just phenomenal in the i50 entry drills then again in the middle Of ground sim. Pressure was what also stood out, was huge in every contest and chased hard tackled hard & looks a player who’s grown into his skin and now KNOWS he belongs. He’s Moo Kowal mixed with a bit of Tingay. Best I’ve seen him, might just be an elite mid ala Holmes this year.

Langford (oozes class, looking like the alpha, just knows what to do and when to do it and while kicking was a little off today, his presence is just nothing short of magnetic). Has to play on-ball 70-80% then up fwd as a pinch hitter. With Viney, Steele, Kos, Riv, Len alongside him boy.. it’s drooling time!!!

Mentha (surprise indeed, but he’s got a real presence now, sized up a bit & continually found more of footy than I’ve seen previously commanded the pill and evaded while keeping composure several times). If we weren’t so strong in similar spots I’d lock him in for R1 that’s how much he stood out for us. Everything was one-touch! Looks like a wingman to me.. time will tell!

Culley (sure hands, great 1st step, leap, tackling pressure & seems to already be a player the coaches want others to find, was just class personified & finished everything)

Trelly (just looks wise beyond years and it’s obvious hang big Cus Kos there is having immense impact). Was only player I saw as bit kicker and receiver in the fwd pocket leading drill that went for a long while and he excelled in BOTH roles, they couldn’t catch him as the leader as as kicker he was creative using angles and going long or short, he was just a nightmare cover). Destined for R1, for sure.

JVR (looks to have mature, grown into body even more and is leading at ball carrier well, took a LOT Of one grab marks, had a real presence about him).

Jeffo/Luker (both battled hard all session and yet both look completely different. Luker is a real specimen with beautiful soft vie like hands, but Jeffo was smart, ran hard & got great separation more so than I’ve ever seen before. Really looks to be up-skilling his game w/repeat efforts & got loads of coaching attention as did AJ who was learning got to take ball at highest point in marking drill (solo) then with May giving some 1:1 pressure and wrestling practice — One thing Scarlett told AJ was that he was doing his work WAY too early and that he needs to hold off longer before engaging and use his frame and strength to protect ball drop zone. Luker is HUGE in physique it’s actually intimidating.

Chin/Fritta: (such great leads in small spaces, finish so strong & Fritta got out back a lot whilst Chin lead strong at ball a lot and was rewarded.

Other Notes:

CJ: Quiet today, did a fair bit of running, but looks really engaged and happy — butchered a few by foot but it was a tough session.

XL: Used as a HB to fill Bowser role, think he will do well Just needs to keep learning and adapting but he has a crack has smarts & will grow exponentially, then next year or year following midfield beckons.

Kalani: REAL surprise packet. He’s obv got a boys body but his positioning for marks and hands were terrific as was his composure in the small circle handball/tackle drills — Dare I say a few grabs looked Darcy-lite in the way he takes it and gets free on the sneak!

Salem: looks fit, ready to go & is in a good space. Couple of foot errors but also some good pressure like we saw in 21’ his tackling had bite to it.

Max: was just Max, immense leadership and commitment as well as ability, looks really happy & if I’m guessing I’d say he’s SUPER excited atm as he’s sure what team is capable of but has a cheeky feeling it might be more than many suspect — just my read.

Bill: Struggled a bit today, missed targets but seemed hampered but the hand so who knows but think as a small fwd he will be back in queue if that’s how King sees him..

AMW: Great to see him back and training well? Def rusty but his running power is immense & he’s going to be a great depth player especially with Bowser out and McVee gone. He looked extremely excited to be out there’s

Checkers: Asked him himself when he was due to be back in contact & he was so exhausted from his bike session he could barely breathe let alone talk — but seemed like it was still a bit “wait and see” atm unfortunately!

Kolt: best I’ve seen him by a MILE. Looks much lighter on his feet, making faster decisions & looked quick as result. Hit targets, was loud & didn’t appear in two minds at all which is big. Small things but watching him today he had impact & was a top 10 for me.

Matthews: LOVE this kid, obv rusty and nervous but he got better and better showing his skills and one-touch base which was awesome, feels like a Greene/Weightman hybrid atm but need to see a lot more obv.

Onley: he is so huge, gets ball, good footwork just needs to work on kicking and making faster decisions but oozes belief and class in his movement, I suggest he will look elite in VFL and push for selection late and blossom WOW. Genuine inside/outside combo which is RARE.

May/McAdam: looked as good as two blokes whom ran ALL SESSION could look. May was given loads of “Atta boy” from Reece Conca for his repeat running efforts, McAdam was smiling and looked like he’s not far at all.

My biggest takeaway was how much better the overall vibe was, no fake BS, just real improvement based comms, smooth gameplay & never any silly drills or plasters unsure what is happening. They’re going something constantly, working on things constantly & we just look so much less stagnant due to more freedom but mostly the cattle and it hating 2 biggest egos slowing us down or hogging limelight. VERY different team, but boy it could be one that offers some real good wins/games and imho will be one that gets better all the time. With so many out it’s exciting to see who makes the cut, so many look good but so few open spots! All 3 parts of ground have 9-12 players vying for 5-6 spots and that felt new. Def more clean onetouch play today, better finishing and Melk/Checkers/Mcadam are on sidelines.

FRITTA AND TURNER'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Berry first out on the park followed by the Coach with some unknown, which turned out to be his son, Oscar. Participated in many of the drills, including kick to kick with dad.

All present except for Rivers and Petty. Bowey arrived late and was watching on. Obviously has a sore foot. TC in a serious neck brace and walked the boundary at a gentle pace. Viney headed back to the sheds after an hour, pursued by autograph hunters.

Laurie had the no contact hat on but did not seem to be troubled by his hand. Max also with the finger guard has become adept at marking one handed.

Sharpie running like a gazelle. So much for a hammy. Maysie running laps, moving better than previous weeks, building condition. Mihocek looks ready to go to me. Salo did not have that 'groin niggle' from last Wednesday.

I liked the defenders drill, two on one where you block an opponent so that a team mate can get a clear run.

200+ spectators in attendance.

DEESPENCER'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

2 on 1 marking drill for the talls.

Key forwards: JVr, Jeffo, Kentfield

Key backs; Lever, Adams, T Mc, Disco, Berry

May and Kalani swapped bibs between the roles which is interesting. Wouldn’t read too much in to it but could be something we see with May, and I’d start Kalani down back at Casey if we can find a role for him.

AJ doing some rehab work with an unknown left footer, looks fine. Mihocek running at speed. No sign of Petty.

Howes, Taylor, Salem, CJ, AMW, Lindsay our small backs working on ball movement.

They cycled through 4 different drills.

• Keeping’s off kicking

• running handball down the boundary

• Break from congestion to hit a 2 on 1 forward

• Breaking from half forward to take pings at goal

Hard to read much in to it. I like Onley’s field kicking. Matthews needs to flatten it out a bit but bombed a goal from 50 no problems. Lindsay kicking well in a lot of drills.

In general the energy was pretty good and skills reasonable.

The Max’s, Laurie, Sharp, AMW doing some light ball movement

CJ, JVR and Matthews doing sprints

Main group split in 3 teams, yellow off to the side doing some small ground stuff, the other 2 teams in a match sim across the middle of the oval.

Kossie is on a different level to everyone else even if it doesn’t always end perfectly.

Trelly getting involved too, he loves a cut back in to the corridor kick that sets up scores.

A big contest by Luker draws some praise from Richo.

Red team: Steele busy, Jeffo making an impact with some defensive hands in and getting out the back, Harvey having a bit of a mare

Yellow team: JVR just looks a different player this year, just more comfortable attacking the footy

White vs Yellow coming up now.

If Lever, Adams and Taylor are our backline based on this match sim we’re in trouble.

Yellow just all over white. Salo and Langdon controlling things

Nice intercept and run through the middle by X Taylor now tho, gets it to Kossie for the finish.

I noticed a number of turnovers from Howes today, but also that he got pressure on Koz and laid tackles where just about no one else from our team would.

And I want to see him taking the game on as much as possible at training. Even at Casey he’d have 25 touches but not a single one of them is aggressive. All short sideways or long and wide.

I suspect if he makes it long term he’ll be a defensive stopper first but he has to grow his offensive side, if for nothing else just to get out of trouble when it’s hot. He coughed the ball up in embarrassing ways at times last year.

EARL HOOD'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

One drill involved key defenders and key forwards with a coach lobbing high balls to a 2 on 1, two defenders against one forward with Matthew Scarlett instructing how the defenders should work in tandem to deny the forward. It was JVR, Jeffo, Kentfield up against combos of TMAC, Lever, May, Adams, Berry and Turner. Kalani had a go at both roles. It highlighted how difficult it is for a forward to take on 2 defenders when the defenders have time to set up for a long ball. In the drill Jeffo managed to halve a number of contests, getting the ball to ground and following up.

ROOOOOOOOOOO'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Kolt warming up with snaps and it’s going going great to put it lightly

He really need to slow it down and work on his ball drop.

Tom Campbell here in neck brace.

Kolt bringing loads of energy.

Just scored a goal in match sim from a turnover he created.

3 goals and an assist for Jefferson.

Roo back out there.

Xavier Taylor is still looking a bit out of his depth.

Struggling to intercept and get his own ball and relying on his teammates but when he does get the ball he his looking to move the ball aggressively. Looking a bit stuck at times. Wants to take the game on but is unsure how to.

I'm a bit worried about Trelly's tackling strength.

Struggling to run down and bring bigger teammates to the ground.

Needs work on core and hip strength imo.

Kalani White 3 goals seems to be playing quite deep forward. Similar strengths and weaknesses to Jefferson (take that how you will).

Kalani could be a very solid forward. Leading patterns are a bit iffy but once he cleans that up a bit he could be a very solid player.

Lever is still stuck under the old game plan imo.

JVR not running with the main group.

He is on his own running but seems to be going alright.

THIRTY-ONE'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBERSERVATIONS

Something I noticed today during the match sim was Reg (Xavier Lindsay) being coached on where to stand against his man and when/how to move to defend, and Kalani being encouraged to chase, at which point he chased a bit late and ran halfway across the ground chasing one player after another. Both are still only kids as far as AFL goes and are still developing. Reg looks somewhat closer than Kalani.

Maysie was leading Tom Couch (who has definitely not missed leg day) on the first of the sprints around the oval but after a bit was lagging. He's doing heaps of running and doing some of the drills.

CODE SPORTS ARTICLE SUMMARY

Summary of a Code Sports article - Ultimate track watch: All the news from Melbourne … (and others) by Oscar Moodley

• Latrelle Pickett was a major standout at Melbourne's training as he pushes for a round 1 debut. The cousin of Demon superstar Kysaiah Pickett, looked a class above his fellow draftees as he flaunted his high-level skills. The Picketts were a sight to behold as Latrelle and Kysiah crumbing the packs, anticipating their teammates' movements and providing a real showcase of the family prowess. Latrelle looks poised to push for an early-season debut.

• another notable standout was former Eagle Jai Culley, dominating high-pressure zone drills looking ready to impact the senior side this season. He looks to be a different beast in 2026, putting on some muscle and tidying up his foot skills.

• recruit watch - Changkuoth Jiath, Max Heath, Jack Steele and Brody Mihocek all look to be settling into life in the red and blue. - Jiath and Steele spent the majority of the training with the main group before moving into low intensity handball drills.

- Mihocek trained lightly, managing a toe injury he hopes to shake before season launch.

• injury watch - Steven May split from the main group early, having conversations with trainers on the sidelines. He resumed training by himself, doing run-throughs on the sidelines before leaving Gosch's Paddock.

- Andy Moniz-Wakefield looks set to make his return from an ACL injury as a potential replacement for Jake Bowey who isn't expected back until mid-season after suffering a Lisfranc injury earlier in preseason.

- Max Gawn wore a splint and powered through the fractured finger he suffered last week, spending the majority of training with the main group.

- Jack Viney, managing an achilles injury, featured briefly early on in training, doing low intensity handball drills with assistant coach Nathan Jones. He hopes to join the main group in the coming weeks.

PICKET FENCE'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

A shocking breeze was evident blowing across the ground, To give an example if you were kicking long allow a 20/25 metre cross inswing or outswing depending on which end you were at.

NO SHOWS Mc Adam, Both Picketts (well I’m sure I would have noticed if they were there), Tom Campbell.

REHAB Viney, Sharp, ( although he was running pretty freely), Melky (who looked very slow) AMW, Matthews, Big Maxxy, and later no 19 and 38, but 19 was not Harvey Langford? Brody Mihocek (who doesn’t look far off).

SKILLS.DRILLS AND MANOUVERS

1. Lots of running with skill drills incorporated around drill then Run throughs at top pace then Drills

2. High emphasis in running in waves from ball gather through back line to midfield to center corridor and conversion opportunities. Further it appeared that hesitation and any doubt has been erased preferring to take a risk and overlap rather than second guess the delivery

3. In drills where kicking was evident a higher emphasis seemed to be on taking an extra split second to ensure premium delivery

4. A great drill which I will call reverse herringbone followed a kick to receiver, back up runner to gather, another handball overlap, another overlap then kick or handball to multiple targets. Given the wind this worked quite well

MATCH SIM

Now this is where it became interesting, the Reds appeared to be the potential 1^ts and the White maybe the Ressies. Having said that Petty and Disco ( whites were up against  JVR and Jeffo).

The reds were clearly a bit stronger and moved the ball well utilising the drills which I have described, there were more overlaps but not overuse that I have seen for a long time. Given the conditions the skill levels were very good, to give you an example A chain of play overlap kick handball from Reds found Fritta in a forward pocket. A set shot for goal aimed outside the left goal post sailed out on the full on the opposite pocket!!, because of the wind!⁹

PLAYER WATCH

MAX HEATH: I think we have a smokey here, he rucked well against A.J and followed up with marks and involvement around the ground, he bore a comparison in style to Tom Lynch, I think he will be lock in the starting team

JAI CULLEY: I'm starting to believe the hype, his confidence and ball winning and using looked very good today

JVR: took some strong grabs and presented very well kicked a nice goal courtesy of Jeffo.

JEFFO: Played alongside JVR an I wonder is this might be Kings preferred set up? He dished off twice resulting in goals and took two strong grabs one of which a long shot 45 Just grazed the goal post

C.J: Another to impress with his athleticism, Selling candy and run of half back

LUKER KENTFIELD: has slimmed down and did some good things

LUAMON LUAL: (NO THIS ISN’T A MISPRINT), and he looks and plays just like C.J and if it was him, did not look out of place today, involved and did some nice things. If a LTI eventuated I would have NO hesitation putting him on the list.

Others to showed a bit were A.J Competitive in ruck and kicked a nice running goal, SPARROW, RIVERS, HOWES, SALEM and RICK LEVER.

NOTE THE MATCH SIM MAY HAVE GONE ON AFTER BUT I LEFT AT 11.45.

WAYNE WUSSELL'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Watched training for an hour this morning… I’m now finding this stage of preparation slightly boring! I’m ready for real competition, not ‘dancing with your sister’ stuff! No offence to sisters intended, nor to players or coaches.

It was a busy hour. Three competitive activities going on at the same time, groups of players rotated through these, so I propped myself up on the fence and waited for them to come to me!

Observations;

Windsor, Kossie, Culley and Salem were standouts for me.

Windsor has developed his tackling to compliment his pace.

Good to see May and Lever looking fit.

Latrelle and Ricky Mentha in everything.

The emphasis in everything they do is on quick ball movement. The intensity is up. Disposals do not always hit the target, but the movement is lightning fast. The ‘defenders’ are always outnumbered. I look forward to seeing our players perform with real pressure from a competitive opposition.

Viney ran and ran and ran at a good clip throughout.

Agree with others that Sharp didn’t look two months away from rejoining regular training.

I thought Kentfield and Jefferson looked good in the competitive drills.

Lindsay looks stronger in the legs and hips.

GEORGE ON THE OUTER'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

I'm with @waynewussell , in that there was little to take away from this session.

The match sim component barely lasted 15 minutes, which is where you get an idea of who is playing where, how the ball is being moved, and the chance to see new players in competitive situations. I suspect with the season not far away, that those components are being reserved for the Casey sessions, away from prying eyes and @picket fence

Telling for me was that despite the 10.00 advertised start time, when I arrived 30 mins beforehand, the players were already there doing "beep test" runs. That is something I have never seen before, especially more so when it is being done BEFORE the session. Then at the end of the session all players in groups of 4 were running boundary at a fair clip. None of the simulation is now over, get some water and sign autographs.

Injury list: Viney, Campbell ( neck), Henderson, McAdam ( again..still), Max ( broken finger), Mihocek, and Bowey and Laurie not present. Then some cameo's from Melksham, AMW, CJ at times, although they ran in the match sim.

Better than the 14 on the sidelines pre Christmas, but I doubt we will see anything of a couple of those this season. So with a couple of "train on" players out there today, and reportedly there last Monday as well, I'm expecting a couple to go on the LTI, to enable us to draft in replacements ala Culley last season.

DEMON GIRL 35'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Only spent about an hour and bit there today but this is what I noticed.

Maxy - Ran and ran today. Super fit!

Culley - In everything and can see him being a main midfielder but probably just holds onto it that little bit too long.

Windsor - Speed to burn!

Kentfield - Great mark he is.

Trelly - Kid looks very good. Excited by him.

Langford - Gets the ball, kicks it to a good option then continues to push hard to receive the handball and get the ball going forward. Working really hard.

Lever and Aj stood out for me when a few keys were doing one on one when the ball was kicked up in the air. A couple of great marks.

Kolt - Also saw him take a few decent marks when they were doing a little match sim (pretty sure that’s what they were) but his kicking after them let him down. Also ran really hard to add pressure on his opponent which would cause a turn over.

KEV'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Big turnout by the spectators.

Weather was great, temp perfect, and a slight wind blowing down field.

They went straight into competitive work in the drills they ran. Three stations, all rotated through them. One station had two sides compete, hit five passes and then shoot for goal.

After the rotations they separated into:

Mids (Tholstrup in there) with a ruck, as they worked on stoppages.

Smalls to mediums, one on one at ground ball and snapping for goal.

Talls, one on one competing for marks.

Then a 12 minute sim. They were regularly looking for the inside ball and getting numbers to that play. Usually only one player will spread to the boundary side.

The first shot on goal was JVR leading well (good separation) and finishing from the 50 arc. Jefferson, not to be out done with contested marks and finishes with grace and accuracy from the opposite side and same distance.

Bibs scored 7, to the shirts 37 points.

Congestion work is improving, with Steele (I like how he goes about it) making sure there is a receiver on the outside.

Langford caving through the spaces, linking with one two's, and his angled powerful runs. He appears to have matured, training with confidence and purpose.

Chandler linking well.

Finished with runs and a cool down.

Max G has put on plenty of muscle mass.

Chaplin coached most of the session.

No goal kicking practice (perhaps pre-training as it started earlier than advertised). This is the first time I've noticed this in several seasons.

The evenness in egos is an interesting change. Seems the leadership roles are across the whole team or the pecking order (leadership group) is yet to be defined.

Plenty of focus, minimal joviality, lots of professionalism.

BANG NA DEMON'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Jed Adams caught my eye with some beautiful kicking under pressure. If he can execute that consistantly at seniors level …

Taylor is a beauty, saw him and Disco looking very tight on the track with brotherly hugs. Onley did a few nice things and Latrelle looks good too.

One the train on's, a tall blond lad took an absolute ripper mark on Petty in a 1 v 1 contested marking drill making Petty look like the train on.

Kozzie is a freak and on another level.

ENTER SANDMAN'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Seeing the boys train today was a lot of fun and there was a good turn out amongst the fans. It was great to see Latrelle and Xavier Taylor live for the first time.

The energy is very different from this time last year - a previous poster mentioned the ego levels are lower and I think that’s true - the young players are going to be pushing the older players for their spots and prior reputation means less with the new coach. Also perhaps we no longer feel like world beaters after a few lowly years and are starting to feel like we have to go and chase it again.

Windsor and Kossie’s speed through the middle is great to watch. Last year we trained a lot of moving the ball from one end to the other with uncontested marks, utilising precise kicking. This year is more about getting the ball moving and using speed and tackle breaking ability.

Culley seems like he will get his chance as an inside mid - and I think Jack Steele might quietly get a spot in the midfield if Viney is missing round 1. Langford did some special things as always. Lever took some great marks.

Once main training had finished Kossie, Latrelle and Ricky were kicking long distance bananas from the boundary - kind of challenging each other playfully. Their skills and connection was a beautiful thing to watch.

There was also a play in the match sim where Kossie ran through the centre, handballed it to Latrelle and then Latrelle hit up a free forward in the goal square. It’s going to be so fun watching these two play together.

ZERO HANGER'S JONTY RALPHSMITH'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Zero Hanger

Melbourne first-year player Latrelle Pickett impressed at the Dees session on Wednesday morning.

Pickett's speed and agility were captivating, enabling him to burst through traffic and weave his way into space, impressing onlookers on multiple occasions.

He pushed up to stoppage and gathered the ball cleanly on multiple occasions before accelerating forward, acting as a conduit between the midfield and attack.

Sixty days out from Round 1, almost a third of Melbourne's list did not take part in match simulation due to varying injuries.

Skipper Max Gawn, veteran Jack Viney and recruit Brody Mihocek were the biggest names limited to running, with the latter pair both continuing to nurse injury concerns sustained prior to Christmas.

Changkuoth Jiath took part in the session as he continues to build his loads, while first-year forward Thomas Matthews integrated into light drills before building up his running loads as he recovers from a knee injury.

Positively, Xavier Lindsay took part in the entire session after his loads had been managed prior to Christmas.

Jack Henderson, Harry Sharp, Shane McAdam and Andy Moniz-Wakefield were others limited to running, while Bailey Laurie and Jake Bowey were unsighted, the latter due to a confirmed long-term Lisfranc injury.

Tom Campbell was also missing, with Max Heath dueling with Aidan Johnson in the ruck.

As well as Mihocek, Jake Melksham was also sidelined, putting responsibility on Matt Jefferson to support Jacob van Rooyen up forward, while Luker Kentfield was the main man up the other end.

Pending the fitness of Mihocek and Melksham, Jefferson and Kentfield could be battling for the remaining taller forward spot, with Jefferson playing seven games last year, while Kentfield is yet to break through but finished the year strongly in the VFL after being swung forward.

Caleb Windsor got midfield minutes, while Kysaiah Pickett looked as classy as any when he got the ball in his hands.

Jai Culley's strong pre-season continued, using his imperious size at stoppage to fend off and burst through tackles.

Culley fended off a tackler and kicked a banana goal off a step from 45 metres out, which concluded the match simulation in stylish fashion.

Jefferson, Ricky Mentha and Kade Chandler were among the others to have impressive moments.

AFL Academy duo Darcy Szerszyn (Dandenong Stingrays, defender) and Xavier Ladbrook (Gippsland Power, utility) both took part in the drills until match simulation.

REDLEG23'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Absolute peach of a morning down @ Casey. Got in @ 10am & from the looks of it, the boys were already well into the session. Left just after 12pm & the boys were still out there busting a gut with some team sprints.

Here’s what I saw.

Rehabbers:

• Viney - walks & short slow jogs with trainer along the boundary. Looks to be favouring one side as he runs? Seems some way away from main training. Wasn’t there long.

• Mihocek - 80 - 100m run throughs boundary side @ a decent pace. Was doing so for about an hour. Wasn’t involved with the main group.

• Mathews - kick to kick with trainer. Trainer then kicking to a leading Mathews out the goal square. Rinse and repeat. Joined all the main running drills & moving well but wasn’t included in any other team footy drills. Edging closer from that PCL it seems.

• Sharp - not sure why he was in rehab today. A heap of kick to kick with trainer & boundary side running & at a very good clip to. Didn’t seem impeded in any way. Wasn’t involved in any team footy drills. 

• Melksham - was a mix of main group & rehab. Looks fine.

• AMW - mix up between main group & rehab but was more so in the main group. Looking fit & obviously nearing full training very soon. It’s about 11 months since his ACL.

• Steven May, Xavier Taylor & Shane McAdam all unsighted.

Drill observations:

• Quick ball movement. Everything done at pace.

• Windsor looking sharp & light on his feet.

• Kozzy dangerous. Always.

10v8: goal is to transition the ball from deep in defence to the other end of the park ending in a goal. Clear that we want to move the ball at pace. 

5v5: stoppage scenario. Random ball up across the middle of the ground. Win ball & transition the ball to goal as best possible.

• Good to see the skipper out here training fully.

• Lindsay looking sharp. Trained fully.

• Culley strong in the contest. Gets through tackles. Needs to tidy up in-play skills. 

More full ground transition works from the back half to FF. This time, transitioning / switching down the flanks towards goal.

Groups of 3&4’s running the boundary at a good clip. Slow pace for the first 20secs then fast pace for the next 30 or so. 

3x groups of 7v7 - concentrating on a more controlled transition play.

Match Sim: 5min periods at a time. Saw I reckon about 5 of these.

• All rehabbers sitting this one out

• Roo presenting well. Getting involved as a high half forward

• Kolt looking better today. More of a connector high half forward role, taking marks & hitting up inside F50

• CJ looking in good touch. Dancing through traffic & delivering the pill well & very considered.

• Culley with the contested mark 30m out. Set shot goal. Can’t question his contested & aerial game.

• Turner v Roo - turner with the contested mark win deep in defence.

• Trelly bobbing & weaving out of traffic in defence… but then caught. Fritta converts the holding the ball free. Unlucky, but welcome to AFL.

• Good to see our defensive stocks are looking fit & settled. Rick, Petty, Disco, Salo, TMac & CJ. Bloody hell bowser is a loss though.

• Harvey getting busy. 

• Sparrow just seems a lot more sure with his decision making this pre season. Less is more works better for him I think.

  Thats all from me folks

  🔴🔵

DEMONLAND'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

PRESENT:

2. Jacob van Rooyen

3. Christian Salem

6. Caleb Windsor

8. Jake Lever

9. Jack Steele

12. Koltyn Tholstrup

13. Jai Culley

16. Bailey Laurie

19. Xavier Taylor 

21. Matt Jefferson

22. Blake Howes

24. Trent Rivers

25. Tom McDonald

26. Jed Adams (Wearing #23)

27. Max Heath

29. Tom Campbell

30. Harry Sharp

31. Bayley Fritsch

32. Tom Sparrow

33. Latrelle Sumner-Pickett

34. Kalani White

35. Harry Petty

36. Kysaiah Pickett

37. Kade Chandler

38. Oscar Berry

39. Ricky Mentha Jr

40. Riley Onley

42. Aidan Johnson 

44. Luker Kentfield

REHAB:

1. Steven May (?)

4. Harvey Langford (Concussion)

5. Xavier Lindsay (Foot)

7. Jack Viney (?)

10. Daniel Turner (Hamstring)

11. Max Gawn (Hamstring)

14. Changkuoth Jiath (?)

15. Ed Langdon (Concussion)

18. Jake Melksham (?)

20. Thomas Matthews (PCL)

28. Brody Mihocek (?)

43. Jack Henderson (Groin)

45. Andy Moniz-Wakefield (ACL)

ABSENT

17. Jake Bowey (Foot)

23. Shane McAdam (Achilles)

2 umpires here as well as some ring in players so it looks like there will be another serious Match SIM. I recognise Toby Sinnema and former Demon Deakyn Smith. Some of the Casey boys from the last Match SIM were there too to make up the numbers of the injured players for the Match SIM.

Mihocek (in the “injured” attired) has arrived with Viney and Henderson in same non-training guernsey attire.

CJ & Matthews running laps.

Viney, Henderson, Lindsay & Mihocek setting up things in the shed to do work in there.

Other previous rehab players are participating in the warmups. Will keep you posted on whether they join the match SIM.

Mihocek on the bike. Lindsay on a resistance band pull down machine (?). Henderson doing planks. Viney standing around looking mean.

4 minutes ago, Davos said:

Brutal rehab group.

I’ve listed all the guys in rehab who were in rehab last session like Max, Langford, Melksham, Turner & Langdon. All are doing warmups and look fine. AMW is also doing the warmups.

Melksham now running laps.

Langford (concussion) Langdon (concussion) & AMW (ACL recovery) have split away from the main group to work with a trainer.

The rucks; Max, Heath, Campbell and White have split off to do some work with Mark Jamar.

May has split off from the main group with another trainer to do some sprint work on the boundary. I believe he did this before the last Match SIM too.

Half ground Match SIM presumably as a precursor to the proper thing.

Two fantastic leads from JVR straight up the middle delivered laced out. Love to see it.

Someone mentioned that May was having his foot looked at by one of the physios. He has changed into runners and is now jogging very slow laps. Watch this space. 😱

Players look like they’re getting ready for the Match SIM.

Max & Disco have joined Langford, Langdon & Melksham doing sprints on the boundary.

Match SIM

Blues vs Whites

STARTING MIDFIELD

BLUE: Campbell Steele Windsor Rivers

WHITE: Heath sparrow Kozzy Culley

WINGS:

BLUE: Sharp Onley

WHITE: Chandler Kolt

Windsor everywhere.

Max, Langford, Langdon, Turner and Melksham doing grappling work on the other oval.

May now jogging faster laps.

Mihocek, Viney, Matthews, CJ, Henderson, AMW & Lindsay all doing circuit work in the sheds.

End of First Period:

BLUE: 3.4.22

WHITE: 1.0.6

Taylor has taken some great courageous marks. Can definitely play tall and small.

Campbell outbodying Heath in ruck contests.

FORWARDS:

BLUE: JVR, Kentfield, White, Laurie Mentha

WHITE: Jefferson, Fritsch, AJ, Trelly, Kolt (2nd period).

DEFENDERS:

BLUE: Lever Salem Petty Taylor Deakyn Smith

WHITE: TMac Berry Howes

Trelly tried to take on Salem but was taken down in a beautiful tackle.

Windsor lace out to JVR on a beautiful lead. Goal. More of this in 2026.

Kozzy is a ball magnet. Got a hardball get on the wing, sold candy, left others in his wake, weighted a nice pass to a train-on, kept running got the handball back and drilled a goal on the run from outside 50.

End of 2nd Period:

BLUE: 5.6.36

WHITE: 3.2.20

Maysie has been running laps this whole time. Every now and again he stops and gets work on lower back/upper glute from the physio

Howes (white) floated down from defense and kicked a goal.

Culley bursts out of the pack and snaps a beautiful goal.

Chandler gets a ground ball in the pack and breaks out and tries to take on Riley Bonner (Casey) and he tackles. Ump calls holding the ball.

Kozzy is a ferocious tackler.

Umpires are killing us.

Love to see Kozzy and Trelly linking up.

End of Third Period (Final):

BLUE: 7.8.50

WHITE: 7.2.44

Salo getting a lot of the footy across half back. Skills superb as always.

Grapplers on the other oval are done. Melky back to running laps.

Mihocek, CJ, Lindsay and Henderson all smashing the bikes in the shed.

Match SIM over.

10 vs 7 full ground drill. Max participating as are Langdon & Langford wearing the Fluro no-contact hats.

Steele not participating in the drill and is doing sprints on the boundary.

Boys changing into the runners now.

That’s it from me from preseason training in 2025.

Bring on 2026.

Addendum:

As I was driving off the boys were running around the Tan

FRITTA AND TURNER'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Another glorious day at Goschs. Is TMc ever late for anthing.

Guerra and Richo watching on. Guerra always looks like he is enjoying his job.

Tom matthews had a bandage on his leg last friday but it hasnt been seen since. Always under the eye of a trainer and spends much time jogging, not sprinting, the line.

The rehabbers, Langford, langdon, gawn, melksham, disco look ready to go. Langford had the 'paint' across the bridge of the nose, a la Adam Ant.

The non runners were Viney, Miohcek, henderson and Lindsay. Brodie suffering from that military complaint of General Soreness. Would you believe that Viney and Lindsay carried over a 'ski' machine from AAMI. Unbelievable.

Windsor is an absolutely standout.

XT has some really smarts and reads the ball well. At times though he reminds me of the kid down the back of the class who couldnt sit still.

Had 2 senior umps for the match sim.

Onley is nearly as big as Jamar.

It doesnt help when players are in the wrong jumpers.

Campbell beating Heath in the grappling contestants.

Lever and Salem are masters of holding their oppoent in the tackle a second or 2 longer.

Maysie looked uncomfortable, some part of his body aint right. (like duh). Jogging, running the line.

I assume the players loaded up with the fluids as there was much 'watering of the eucalypt trees'.

CJ, can i say poetry in motion, beautiful running.

DEESPENCER'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Pickett, Fritsch and Salem were the standouts of the half field drill.

In to full ground sim now and JVR has found the ball 4 times on the half forward line. 1 behind, 2 successful inside 50 kicks, 1 picked off.

The Campbell, Riv , Windsor, Steele midfield on top

Toby Sinnema looks like he belongs. As does the Sudanese fella whoever he is.

Pro: Windsor

Con: Sharp just marked on the wing, took off around Heath, took 4 bounces, burnt the entire open forward line and got run down by Heath and turned it over. Unfortunately King seems to be a nice human being because I wouldn’t send him home.

Xavier "Reg" Taylor’s first instinct to counter attack with fast feet is very real and creates great transition. Plenty for him to work on but it’s always nice to see someone’s best attribute look legit.

The speed with which we are moving the ball is so clearly faster than the last few years.

And all of the main 6 on ballers (3 a side) had moments.

Koz was everywhere. Culley was a marking target and kicked a super goal from a half forward clearance. Sparrow was super busy and ran like a machine - his weaknesses remain but when he can keep it simple he’s effective.

Windsor has work to do on his inside game but was just carving it up on the outside. Steele was solid. Rivers was very well rounded.

All 4 key forwards were involved. JVR just kept hitting up on the flank. Seemed to finally have some connection with the mids. Jeffo had some good contests and clunked a couple, is moving well. Luker had a couple of involvements. AJ was up and back across half forward and now covers the ground like a genuine athlete and nothing like a tradie.

All the key backs had moments too. T Mc and Adams at one end, even if both got beat JVR on the lead in to space. Adams kicking is looking better and better. Petty and Lever at the other.

Fritsch, Chandler some almost moments from Mentha. Trell and Reg settling in. Not all that much to note from the flankers as we didn’t have too many out there!

TRIDENT 22’S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

I watched the whole session today and am surprised no one was talking about the form of JVR. If they have, I must have missed it. He looks lean but strong. Was moving really well. However, what stood out was his leading and ability to take grabs with both hands, one touch. This is the area of his game which needed the most improvement. I think we will see him thrive under King. 

Has anyone been able to confirm why Miochek was on the bikes and doing circuit training today? I heard the officials say that CJ is close to be back in full training after the Christmas break. As noted by others, he ran laps all morning.

Toby Sinnema (Casey) looked like he absolutely belonged. I’d be signing him up. The biggest cheers from the playing group came for Koz who kicked a long range goal, after the kick he delivered, getting the hands and bombing one from a step inside fifty. The players celebrated that one. The other big one was for Jye Culley, who snapped a roving goal inside fifty. “F…k yeah boy” was shouted by one player. Plenty of claps and whistles.

Finally, Caleb Windsor 🍆

EARL HOOD’S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

I thought JVR was a mixed bag today in the sim. Two strong marks on the lead against TMac, two failed attempts at mark of the year jumping on top of Tommy, one set shot at goal after a strong mark from 40m that went off the side of his boot and one pass that went straight through his hands when on a fast lead. He looks great at times, but still seems to have the odd unexpected skill lapse.

Yep Culley’s running goal in traffic was a standout, his kicking just looks so smooth and natural. I can’t see what is going to stop this guy being a big surprise packet for opposition teams next season.

Berry is interesting to watch, he doesn’t look dangerous but I haven’t seen him make an error yet, picks bouncing ground balls up on the run cleanly and delivers correctly by foot or hand.

Taylor is another who I haven’t seen make a mistake, seems to have plenty of awareness of what’s going on around him, gets the ball takes the opposition on, has a bounce and looks for targets. I am on board with this bloke after watching him in a sim last week, take a pass in the pocket, have a bounce with Kossi coming at him, he just side stepped, fended off Kossi’s lunging arm and proceeded down the field, leaving Kossie sprawled on the ground and that’s no mean feat. Very composed for a newbie.

The other player I have been following is Tholstrup, in the few sessions I have attended his skill levels are good in the drills, he’s enthusiastic and involved. His only bad habit is trying to out muscle tacklers and often getting caught. Watching him today he was playing wing on Onley or drifting to half forward but had little direct involvement in the play. I was hoping he would get some time in the middle just to see how he goes getting the ball with the jets, Kossie and Windsor. I still don’t know what roll he can play best for us. He has football skills, his draft combine results say he has elite agility and endurance with more than adequate speed but what are the extra ingredients you need to make AFL level when you are 186 cm tall?

Going into next season I am, for some reason, very much glass half full on what I have seen so far.

GHOSTWRITER'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATION

The vibe is great! Everyone: players, coaches and trainers are happy about today because immediately after this session they’re on holidays. 🥳

But…

Jadams just told me they’ve been told this session will be gruelling. Absolutely brutal. Regular sessions are brutal so if Kingy has said it’s gonna be brutal… it’s gonna be apocalyptic.

There are some Casey boys here as well as a couple of umpires so a match is on the cards.

There’s a lovely Casey boy named Jarrod Gatt. I’m sure @Whispering_Jack knows all about this kid.

The other day someone asked about Tom Hawkins and I just spoke with Paul Guerra. It’s still something we’re hoping will come to fruition and we’re confident it will eventuate. Tom needs time to settle in and while he hasn’t committed, he’s interested in taking on the role.

Out on the other oval are Max, Langers, Disco, Melky and the Bison are with Keith the trainer doing a wrestling drill. One player lies on his back with another player lying on top of him. Keith yells out Go! and the player underneath has to throw the other guy off. Melky pinned Max down successfully and kept him down. Max was not happy Jan. 😁

Now these same players are practicing grappling one-on-one in a marking contest. Very serious stuff. It’s like they’re being instructed to grapple hard but without running a risk of giving away a free.

57 minutes ago, Earl Hood said:

Are there some invitees from Casey here? There are 3 players I don’t recognise.

Lamond, Jarrod Gatt and Toby Sinnema are the Casey boys here today.

Post Match SIM the players are in their Amazing Race teams so I expect we’ll be seeing part two once it’s filmed. Part one is on the website and it’s a great watch. Actually there’s been a little change to the teams. The rehabbers with foot or leg issues have formed a separate group and they’re walking around the Tan instead of running.

Once they’re all back at the marquee they’ll grab their stuff and begin their three weeks off. Three well-deserved weeks off.

Richo and Paul G on the other hand. They get Xmas day and New Year’s Day off. And that’s it.

DEMONLAND'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

PRESENT:

1. Steven May

2. Jacob van Rooyen

3. Christian Salem

6. Caleb Windsor

8. Jake Lever

9. Jack Steele

12. Koltyn Tholstrup

13. Jai Culley

16. Bailey Laurie

19. Xavier Taylor 

21. Matt Jefferson

22. Blake Howes

24. Trent Rivers

25. Tom McDonald

26. Jed Adams

27. Max Heath

28. Brody Mihocek

29. Tom Campbell

30. Harry Sharp

31. Bayley Fritsch

32. Tom Sparrow

33. Latrelle Sumner-Pickett

34. Kalani White

35. Harry Petty

36. Kysaiah Pickett

37. Kade Chandler

38. Oscar Berry

39. Ricky Mentha Jr

40. Riley Onley

42. Aidan Johnson 

44. Luker Kentfield

REHAB:

4. Harvey Langford (Concussion)

10. Daniel Turner (Hamstring)

11. Max Gawn (Hamstring)

14. Changkuoth Jiath (?)

15. Ed Langdon (Concussion)

18. Jake Melksham (?)

23. Shane McAdam (Achilles)

45. Andy Moniz-Wakefield (ACL)

ABSENT (All Absent Players Arrived 1/2 way through the session but did not participate in anything other than handballing to each other while I was at training):

7. Jack Viney (?)

5. Xavier Lindsay (Foot)

17. Jake Bowey (Foot)

20. Thomas Matthews (PCL)

43. Jack Henderson (Groin)

Max (Hamstring) & AMW (ACL) are participating in the first 4 drills.

Langdon is present and participating in these drills as is Langford. Both were in concussion protocols last week.

Melksham and Tuner (Hamstring) playing kick to kick.

McAdam (Achilles) & CJ running laps.

Split into 4 groups for 4 separate rotating drills

1. 1 vs 1 marking drill with ball kicked high in the air

2. 7 vs 6 keepings off drill in the 50m arc with kicking and a lot more space to run into. Goal is to get the ball to your goal

3. 6 vs 4 keepings off handball drill up the wing. Goal is for the 6 to handball the ball around quickly up the wing usually ending with a long kick to one of the 6 who is by himself further up the wing.

4. 4 vs 4 close quarters keepings off hand ball drill.

Langdon and Langford in the fluorescent yellow no contact hats.

Max, Melksham and Turner running laps. They’ve finished that and have joined Langford and Langdon and AMW in a separate drill with one of the rehab trainers.

Split into 2 separate groups at either ends of the ground.

7 vs 8 with play starting on the half forward with the goal of working the ball to goal. The drill then starts from a kick out of the goal to work the ball out of defense.

Players constantly changing the bibs for whether they are on the team defending or attacking.

Rehabbers doing a smaller version of this with 2 trainers as the opposition providing pressure.

All the rehabbers (Max, Melskham, Turner, Langford, Langdon & AMW) appeared to be moving well.

Viney, Lindsay, Henderson & Matthews have arrived and are handballing to each other.

Not sure what is wrong with Lindsay but whatever it is he obviously can’t run. Watch this space.

FRITTA AND TURNER'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

When i arrived at 9.30 the regular rehabers plus May and TMc were out doing their special drills.

No sign of Viney, Henderson, Lindsay and Tom Mathews though they did turn up late.

Langford and Langdon wearing concussion caps and must be very close to joining in regular drills. Max and J Rivers wearing bucket hats.

I got to thinking Have i watched too much footy? as I could identify Scarlett by the way he walked.

Chin was in good voice.

And yes they do call XT Reg. (Only the third Xavier to play for the MFC).

Running the line was not as intensive as previous sessions but Shane and Reece gave it a go.

May came off to change from boots to runners.

Some of the younger players seemed very competitive in the drills as they know spots are up for grabs.

And yes, most of the drills seem to be fast movement of the ball by hand or foot.

TMcs family and others were in attendance which is always nice to see.

GHOSTWRITER'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

My first mission today is to give Jack Steele a birthday cupcake which I bought this morning because I accidentally ate his Demon Army cupcake on Saturday. He’d forgotten to come pick it up and I had no choice but to eat it

Langers not out of concussion protocols yet. Max said he won’t be until January which is technically true since this Wednesday is the last session but Max thought saying January was hilarious. Gotta admire someone who heartily laughs at his own ‘jokes’

Poor Ricky Mentha Not only did he have gastro last week but he also had the flu. This is why JVR came back to training earlier than him. He’s well over it now though

Xavier Lindsay said he’s all good and gave a thumbs up. I shall investigate further.

I investigated further. X had a mishap at training last week and complained of a sore foot. Scans etc. showed no damage, everything is fine, and he trained as usual on Friday. This morning his foot was sore again (same foot) so they decided to put him in rehab until the soreness is completely gone. He likely won’t be running on Wednesday either.

17 minutes ago, Greg Schneider said:

So about a 1/3 of our best 22 not main training? Great…

This doesn’t mean 1/3 of our best 22 are injured. Some of them are being monitored, some have a minor niggle, some are almost right to go having come back from injury but they’re waiting until the new year before putting them back in the main group. Two of them are in concussion protocols.

An example: Shane is tracking really well and will be in full training in January. He says that right now they’re concentrating on getting him sprinting and changing direction suddenly. He’s ticked all the other boxes.

Today I met Matty Scarlett. He’s a lovely person. I thanked him for coming to work with us and he said it was his pleasure because our club is run so well and he’s happy to be part of a club that’s looking likely to succeed next season.

Kingy asked me if I’ve met David, our new psych, which I have. Then Kingy told me David’s a former professional basketball player who played for several sides in the NBL, boasting six championships, which is the league record for most championships for an individual player. Kingy said, “Google him, he’s very accomplished.” And he is, the six championships were with three different teams, including a three-peat with the Sydney Kings. Early in his career he spent three years playing college basketball in the U.S. for the Boston Terriers. Then he returned to Australia to begin his record haul of championships.

Kingy said he likes having a wide range of talents from various backgrounds and David is yet another example of this.

DEMONLAND'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

PRESENT:

1. Steven May

2. Jacob van Rooyen

3. Christian Salem

5. Xavier Lindsay

6. Caleb Windsor

8. Jake Lever

9. Jack Steele

12. Koltyn Tholstrup

13. Jai Culley

14. Changkuoth Jiath

16. Bailey Laurie

19. Xavier Taylor 

21. Matt Jefferson

22. Blake Howes

24. Trent Rivers

25. Tom McDonald

26. Jed Adams

27. Max Heath

28. Brody Mihocek

29. Tom Campbell

30. Harry Sharp

31. Bayley Fritsch

32. Tom Sparrow

33. Latrelle Sumner-Pickett

34. Kalani White

35. Harry Petty

36. Kysaiah Pickett

37. Kade Chandler

38. Oscar Berry

40. Riley Onley

42. Aidan Johnson 

44. Luker Kentfield

REHAB:

4. Harvey Langford

7. Jack Viney

10. Daniel Turner

11. Max Gawn

18. Jake Melksham

20. Thomas Matthews

23. Shane McAdam

43 Jack Henderson

45. Andy Moniz-Wakefield

ABSENT:

15. Ed Langdon

17. Jake Bowey

39. Ricky Mentha Jnr

A number of train on players present today including Toby Sinnema. This could mean Bowey could be placed on the LTI List.

It’s also possible that these guys are not necessarily train-ons to replace Bowey but rather, Casey players to make up numbers for the Match SIM.

Two umpires here today so looks like there will be a serious Match SIM at some point.

Max, Disco, Langford and Melksham kicking around the footy and all running well. None should be too far off resume regular training.

AMW has joined Max, Melk, Disco & Langford in a small version of a circle work like drill. All moving very well.

Players have split into 4 colours Blue, White, Pink & Orange and are being addressed by the two umpires.

Two half court Match SIM games (length ways) umpired by one umpire each:

Orange vs Pink and Blue vs White

A mix of all positions amongst the teams. About 8 or 9 on each team with Casey/Train-On players making up the numbers.

Plays are just started randomly from a position with the goal to score at your end

Very quick ball movement is the order of the day for this simulation.

Match Ups have changed.

White vs Orange and Blue vs Pink

White:

Jefferson Berry Culley Petty Fritsch Heath Howes Rivers Casey Player

Orange:

May Kentfield CJ Pickett Kolt Kalani Chandler Casey Player

Blue:

Trelly Sharp Campbell Sparrow Lever Onley Laurie

Pink:

JVR TMAC Taylor Salem Windsor AJ Steele Sinnema Casey Player

McAdam running laps with Reece Conca.

It doesn’t appear as if Langdon is present today. It was previously reported that he copped a knock last week and was in concussion protocols.

Gawn, Melksham, Langford and Disco running repeat 150m fast run throughs along the boundary. You can tell that all 4 are champing at the bit to be out there. Soon.

AMW & Matthews running laps separately. Matthews appears to be running more comfortably than he was the other day. AMW as reported, is very close to resuming full training which should be after the Christmas break. Matthews will still be a little further away from resuming as he has just started running.

Viney & Henderson smashing the bikes

Now they’ve split into two groups (Blues & Whites) for what could be the Match SIM.

CJ is not participating in the Match SIM and is now jogging lap with one of the trainers.

MATCH SIM

Mids:

Blue: Kozzy Campbell Sparrow Kolt

Wings: Onley Culley

White: Heath Windsor Steele Chandler Rivers

Wings: Sharp & a Casey Player

Forwards:

Blue: JVR Fritsch Kalani Kentfield

White: Mihocek AJ Jefferson

Defenders:

White: May TMac Howes

Blue: Lever Petty Adams

HALF TIME:

White: 6.2.38

Blue: 3.1.19

Sharp and Windsor (both White) in everything.

Kozzy (Blue) getting a lot of the footy too.

CJ heading back to the rooms. He participated in the mini SIMs before doing some running with trainer and now heading back to the rooms after not participating in the full Match SIM. Watch this space.

3 QTR TIME (Full Time):

White: 7.3.45

Blue: 6.3.39

Culley (blue) finding space in the forward line.

Trelly (white) like Kozzy has such good footy IQ and instincts and knows exactly what he is going to do with the footy before he gets it.

GHOSTWRITER'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Max, Disco and Melky have been out here for a while already. They’re following instructions from Selwyn.

Tmac just arrived. He’s usually first out. He looked a bit puzzled when he saw the other three already out there. I’ve never seen someone put their boots on so quickly - not sure he even tied the laces.

Five or six Casey players are here today. One is wearing Bowser’s jumper and one is wearing Ricky’s jumper. Neither Roo nor Ricky are here. They’re close to well enough but Wheels said they’re keeping them back from training partly because of the heat.

Clearly the club are all across Demonland…

Nothing to worry about re Disco. His hammy isn’t a concern, they’re just being super cautious with him. He’ll be “running today and running fast” according to Pete our head physio. Pete says at this time of year they don’t want anyone trying to be a hero. I have nfi what that means, I just nodded like I understood.

Ollie Green and Louie Hodder (no relation to Courtney but wishes he was) are two Casey boys here. And of course Tobes. Lamond is also a Casey player who’s here

Edit: Ollie Green isn’t Brad’s son, they just share the same name

There’s only one Casey player whose name I’ve yet to find out*. Latrelle is wearing #39 but so is this Casey boy, just to add to confusion.

* It’s Paddy Cross.

ON THE CASEY/TRAIN-ON PLAYERS FROM WHISERPING JACK MENTIONED BY GHOSTWRITER:

Oliver Green, aged 19. was on the Casey list this year. He originally was with the Sandringham Dragons and played mainly on a wing in amateur football in 2025.

Louis Hodder, aged 18, is a small forward from the Dandenong Stingrays (176cm).

Just had a chat with Kingy. We talked about training. I told him that of the players I’ve asked about training so far the consensus is that it’s brutal, intense, very challenging, etc. I even told him one player called him a [censored] psycho. He loves it. He said that tells him he’s doing things right. But I also told him that these same players all said while it took some getting used to, they actually love this level of intensity and they feel so much stronger and fitter.

I told Kingy that thus far there’s been no S&Gs out there. Not a single shc!tt or giggle in sight. He said, “Oh there’s S&Gs, most definitely there is. But that’s when we’re over there” and he motioned towards AAMI. He said he doesn’t just let them engage in S&Gs, he encourages it because there has to be a healthy balance.

Then, back on the serious training subject, he told me some of the things he tells the players. This was my favourite: he tells them “Yes, it’s bloody hard, it’s brutal, I’m pushing you then pushing you again, and again. I’m pushing you to your absolute limits. I’m doing everything I can to get everything possible out of you and that’s because I want you to be bulletproof and, more importantly I want you to KNOW you’re bulletproof.”

Talk about inspirational! It took every fibre of my being to resist jumping the fence and slam tackling anyone in my path then running 50 laps for fun. But then I remembered I’d likely pull a hammy just trying to jump the fence so instead I just pictured myself doing it.

Further on the subject of Vines seemingly having a weight lifted from his shoulders, despite being injured, he definitely is different now. And he’s not the only one. I see a similar thing with Melky, Max and Tmac. They seem to be less burdened, if you will. I spoke with one of the medics and he said it’s probably because of all the changes and that Kingy has a reassuring way about him. This makes sense.

I was introduced to our new “psych” as he calls himself. His name is David. He’s about 6ft5 and very softly spoken and gentle-natured. I felt like I’d had a professional session with him, minus the $600 fee 😁

David only started two days ago which means we’ve been psych-less since Stephen Rendall left months ago. Maybe we haven’t had a desperate need for one, therefore not in a hurry to fill the position 🤷‍♀️

It was the (now) usual tough session. The boys actually pulled up well, despite the heat. Knackered of course but they still looked pumped.

FRITTA & TURNER'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Arrived at 9.30 to find nearly all the players out having a kick to kick with a partner. Melkys partner was his young son.

The rehabers havent changed since last time. And i know this is impossible but Langford looks even taller. And Max G must be sick of the sight of the back of Disco head as thy run the boundary. Shane McA was running with Reece Conca but perhaps not at the same intensity as Wednesday.

Tom Matthews had a bandage on his left leg and was jogging the line. Also did some time on the bike. And the baggy training shorts seems like a tent at times.

TC did some time running the line. I dont think that is his favourite drill...

Hendo and Vines on the bikes.

The match sims were good fun. Trelly move very well but tried to take on Fritta and Culley. Trelly off to catch his breath.. Culley and Windsor looking good. And if you are a young add on from Casey and Windsor is chasing you dont run in a straight line.

Salems tackles always keeps his opponents on the ground for an extra couple of seconds.

Onleys disposal may be an issue.

Kalani did some competitive work with Jamar, with Conca kicking the ball in . Bump now, ...and again ...and again.

And just between you and me, I think we are going to handball more next season. (Just kick the thing I can hear us yelling now).

At any one time there are about 30+ 'track watchers' looking on.

SLARTIBARTFAST'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

I had a busy day yesterday and so I’m late with this post. The match sims are the things that get track watchers excited and we had our first real hit out yesterday. Others have covered them very well and it’s interesting to get different perspectives. There is no doubt there is a different intensity this year. Last year at this time it was ball movement with minimal contact progressing to dancing with your sister stuff as the PS went on. This year there is pretty serious stuff going on, hence concussions and I’d think more injury and soreness.

I’m surprised Leb hasn’t been mentioned because to me he was the clear standout in the sims. Played midfield, won the ball at clearance, was used as an outlet player and got heaps of the ball. Kossie was the other one who got it a lot and while some of his delivery was very good some needs to be tidied up. Jai Culley continued to impress and Moose was good although Gawny wasn’t there but I thought he had the better of Tom Campbell.

Kolt, Trelley and XT also showed their stuff as did Sharpie who seems to have progressed significantly from last year. Blake Howes also did some really good stuff particularly in the half field drills.

Just for the record I haven’t given up hope on Jeffo, to me he is still an interesting watch.

TRAINING REPORT FROM THE MFC WEBSITE

https://www.melbournefc.com.au/news/1941480/afl-training-report-friday-standouts

MELBOURNE’S AFL pre-season is ramping up with players putting their best foot forward this side of Christmas.

While they're not full matches just yet, the group have started completing 20-minute match-like drills, with Melbourne Media trackside to scope out the notable moments.

Anyone watching on would be able to quickly note that Kysaiah Pickett isn’t looking to slow down, despite having already had a career-best campaign in 2025. His quick feet and electric energy were back on Gosch’s and dare we say, with a slight edge to them, making the Demon even more of danger. 

A moment of excitement was a chain down the ground between K.Pickett and young draftee Xavier Taylor, the duo’s speed helping them link up through the centre and deliver the ball inside 50.

Changkuoth Jiath started strong during the half-ground match-sim, his intercepting and explosive speed out of defence a standout.

Through the middle and up forward, Jai Culley was as strong as ever, clunking marks and winning contests – two skills he became known for in the back-half of last season.  

One match-up that was particularly entertaining to watch was between Aidan Johnson and Jake Lever, who went head-to-head in the opening half. Johnson proved stronger in plenty of the one-on-ones.

Brody Mihocek seemed crucial up forward, not just from his own impact, slotting a number of goals, but from his vocals, clearly using his experience to help lead the young teammates around him.

Bursts of talent came from draftee Latrelle Pickett, one standout moment saw him speed down the ground, successfully taking on a number of players and coming out on top.

Second-year Demon Xavier Lindsay had moments of gold. There’s exciting potential with Lindsay for 2026, who was able to put together an impressive 2025 despite having not had a full pre-season in the lead up to games. With a full pre-season under his belt, there’s no telling where he can take his game next year.

DEMONLAND'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

The present, rehab and absent list for this morning's training session:-

 PRESENT:

1. Steven May

3. Christian Salem

5. Xavier Lindsay

6. Caleb Windsor

8. Jake Lever

9. Jack Steele

12. Koltyn Tholstrup

13. Jai Culley

14. Changkuoth Jiath

16. Bailey Laurie

19. Xavier Taylor 

21. Matt Jefferson

22. Blake Howes

24. Trent Rivers

25. Tom McDonald

26. Jed Adams

27. Max Heath

28. Brody Mihocek

29. Tom Campbell

30. Harry Sharp

31. Bayley Fritsch

32. Tom Sparrow

33. Latrelle Sumner-Pickett

34. Kalani White

35. Harry Petty

36. Kysaiah Pickett

37. Kade Chandler

38. Oscar Berry

40. Riley Onley

42. Aidan Johnson 

44. Luker Kentfield

REHAB:

4. Harvey Langford (Concussion)

7. Jack Viney (Foot)

10. Daniel Turner (Hamstring)

11. Max Gawn (Hamstring)

15. Ed Langdon (Concussion)

18. Jake Melksham (Unknown)

20. Thomas Matthews (PCL recovery)

23. Shane McAdam (Achilles)

43 Jack Henderson (Groin)

45. Andy Moniz-Wakefield (ACL recovery)

ABSENT:

2. Jacob van Rooyen (Unknown)

17. Jake Bowey (Lisfranc)

39. Ricky Mentha Jnr (Unknown)

May was doing 100m fast run throughs while other players were doing various pre-warm ups before the actual training warmups stated at 10am. 

Langford and Langdon running laps as part of rehab. 

As reported on Monday Langford copped a knock at training last week and is in concussion protocols

Not sure what is wrong with Langdon. 

McAdam is doing work with one of the trainers. 

Viney, Matthews & Henderson are handballing with a trainer. 

AMW doing the warm ups with the main group but I am sure he will move back to rehab once the drills commence.

Gawn, Turner Melksham and Campbell all doing run throughs at a slower pace separate to the main group.

We know that Gawn & Turner both have hammy awareness from last Fridays session but don’t know what injury Melk and Campbell have.

Will update what the rehabbers are doing as training progresses. 

McAdam running laps with Reece Conca. 

JVR & Mentha not present today.

Langdon also copped a knock on the head in a previous session and is in the rehab group as a result. 

Viney and Henderson are on the bikes

Matthews is doing separate rehab with a trainer. 

McAdam and Langford running laps. 

Gawn, Turner and Langdon doing some light ball work with a trainer. 

After some ball warm up drills the players are doing 200m runs in small groups. 

Forwards and Defenders Drill

Forwards: Mihocek, Kentfield, Fritsch, Jefferson & Johnson

Defenders Lever, May, TMac, Petty, Adams & Howes 

Split into two groups with a mix of these players to do 3 vs 3 

Rucks Drill

Max, Campbell, Heath & White working on ball ups vs each other in the middle of the ground. Sometimes solo against the bag and sometimes 1 vs 1. 

The Rest Drill

Close quarters keepings off handball drill with tackling/contact. Red vs Yellow bibs.

Split into 4 groups for 4 separate rotating drills

1. 1 vs 1 marking drill with ball kicked high in the air

2. 4 vs 5 keepings off drill in the 50m arc with kicking and a lot more space to run into. Goal is to get the ball to your goal

3. 6 vs 3 keepings off handball drill up the wing. Goal is for the 6 to handball the ball around quickly up the wing usually ending with a long kick to one of the 6 who is by himself further up the wing.

4. Goal kicking. Set shots and snaps on the run. On angles or straight in front. 

GHOSTWRITER'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

AMW is very close to being 100% He’s been told he will be in full training after Xmas. And he’s delighted.

Bowser won’t be on the LTI. JT said at this stage they’re hoping to not have to put him on it.

Langdon also in concussion protocols. He copped a knock to the head during training.

Latrelle Pickett (Trelly) is an absolute joy to watch. He doesn’t just have flashes of brilliance, he’s consistently outstanding. And fast! You blink and he’s moved 10 metres. It’s like there’s two of him out there.

Kozzie and Trelly are blood relatives but it’s by no means easy to explain.

Trelly’s mum and Kozzie’s dad are first cousins. One of Kozzie’s aunts has children to one of Trelly’s dad’s cousins (Trelly’s second cousin). On Trelly’s dad’s side Kozzie is Trelly’s nephew and on Trelly’s mum’s side Koz and Trelly are second cousins.

That’s how Trelly explained it. He must’ve noticed I was battling to keep up so he said I should write it down, and I did. There was no way I’d remember it.

Trelly said Koz calls him “Uncle.” I said, “Really?” Trelly said “Yeah definitely, ask him.” So I did. Koz said yes he does call Trelly Uncle.

At this point I was confident I understood the whole thing but then Koz said “and I call Trelly’s dad Pop.” Once again I was back to the land of confusion. I said “So, Trelly’s dad is your granddad?” Koz said, “Nah I just like calling him Pop.” He was greatly amused by my confusion. Cheeky bugger.

DITCHA'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

I attended some of this session. I was impressed with the way that Trelly moved, and his great skills. It was good to see the CEO attending most the session. It was good to see Ryan Hoffman formerly of the Melbourne Storm there. Was it Matthew Scarlett working with the defenders? [DEMONLAND - Yes I believe it was]

PAULR'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBERVATIONS

Went to training as well.

One drill they were running was in groups of 6 players about 40 -45 m out from goals. Five players would start with a ball and quickly feed it to the sixth player resulting in them having 5 quick shots on goal. Then rotate to the next player and repeat. It got competitive, and in the group of six players containing Kossie and Trelly they were clearly loving competing to claim 5 goals. Fun to watch and of the new players recruits Pickett and Onley stood out. Latrell’s seems most likely for round one, great hands, feet and movement, wow good.

A lot of work on fluid and fast ball movement, rebound and attack.

AJ looking trim and AFL body, was in the thick of it and looks at home and at the level. Could break in if the planets align.

Another who looked very solid was Steel, just runs to right spots and reliable as expected. CJ also is a real solid talent.

Otherwise the team are building into the Xmas break nicely. Was great to come down and check it out in person. Very friendly vibe and great to see the new talent fitting in.

Jai Culley, his size and presence in the middle, plus his forward skills bode well for a big impact in 2026. He plays like Bont or Fyfe in his movement through traffic and physicality.

SLARTIBARTFAST'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Just back from training and I was really impressed by Trelly again. I think he is a different type of player to Kossie. Kossie is the burst type player with, as we know, exceptional X factor and is more a small forward with patches in the midfield. He's the Bobby Hill, Charlie Cameron style of player.

I think Trelly is different, more in the mould of NWM. In the training drill he covers so much ground and is continually running. He will link up time and time again in them. He's very quick and evasive and at this point his skills are just good, not exceptional like Kossie. But he looks like he could play as a line breaker of HB, he could play through the midfield and he can clearly play forward. It will be a really interesting watch over the PS.

The other to continually impress is Jai Culley. He's going to be a very difficult match up because he's a very strong overhead mark for the position he plays. Midfield or wing? Do those positions exist under King the way they did under Goodwin? There really haven't been any match sims in the last few weeks to know as the players for the main have been in about 3 different groups all doing different things. We will start to get a better idea of where players sit in January. It's also interesting we have guys in rehab with concussion protocols which adds weight to the observation that training is much more physical under King than it was under Goody.

WAYNEWUSSELL'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

McAdam is still running with a slight limp, but what a lot of running he is doing! Today he broke away for some short kicking and he looked comfortable.

Tholstrup is looking fit and was a strong body in breakaway from the centre sims.

Heath seemed to struggle with his kicking for goal today, surprisingly, Lever was hitting 75% of his shots.

May is getting back to some fitness and is moving a little better than in the latter stages of this season. He is getting back some of the swagger. A fully fit May would be a huge bonus going into 2026.

Matthews is recovering well from his op and, purely from my observation, should be joining sims activity after the Christmas break.

Campbell is benefitting from an uninterrupted preseason. He may be more than a Max backup in 2026.

On training form, I list the following as visible improvers, not in any order...

AJ, Langford, Windsor, Culley and Kentfield

This group makes us better...

Jiath, AMW, Mihocek, L. Pickett, Steele

Another positive factor...

Lever is fit.

Without further serious injury, I am confident we will at least break even in 2026, which would be an improvement on the previous two seasons.

AJ is looking good. He seems to have gained a little polish, particularly with his kicking for goal. He is fit and takes some good marks in leading and contesting sims.

Has a short chat with Harvey Langford. My friend asked if he had grown since last year. He said he wasn't sure... "maybe a centimetre or two". I snapped those pics and posted them before to give some indication of Langford's size compared to Lingers. He is definitely taller than listed. I told him he better stop growing or they will have him in the ruck next!

We were treated to some of the 'magic' Trelly moves as his group worked through some repeat shots at goal, and later some lead up work infront of us. He is lightning, full of confidence, evasive and a sure ball handler.

I didn't notice Onley today, but X Taylor has blossomed somewhat since his first hit out. He showed finesse when bursting from defence, was reasonably accurate with his shots for goal and chirpy in general, as he blends into the group dynamic.

FRITTA AND TURNER'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

When I arrived Langdon was on the ground by himself, drifting up and down the ground, kicking the ball to himself, and having shots on goal, whilst the staff set up.

TMc next to arrive, then Max G, wearing a bucket hat. Last out were Viney and Hendo who spent most of their time on the bikes. Viney was man on the mark for Trelly and was yelling 'Its your first game, and your having a shot....

Ghosty was in fine form

Berry looks a footballer but his lack of AFL fitness does show.

If the game is in the balance and Max H is kicking for goal look the other way.

Disco and Max G running the boundary, with disco looking over his shoulder as if to say Where are you? The gap widened. Btw those running the (boundary) line have right of way so players coming off for a drink have to make way.

First time I have seen Trelly and he moves very well in traffic. Was impressed.

XT obviously has 'it' and is very energetic.

May is a good kick for goal.

Lever was yelling encouragement to Tom Matthews as he rehabed. Tom spent most of his time running, under the watchful eye of a trainer. Knee still an issue.

Onley led from the front in his groups running.

Langford looks colosal. Ran the line then kick to kick with trainer/Jones from 10, 20 then 30m etc. Did a drill where he ran in a straight line, turned left then about turn to the right. Repeat.

As I left 4 galahs were watching on from the top of the netting behind the goals.

DOT POINTS FROM JOSH BARNES OF THE HERALD SUN FROM HIS ARTICLE ~ “TRACK WATCH NEWS AND SCOUTING NOTES FROM MELBOURNE PRE-SEASON TRAINING”

• Steven King may have demonstrated his first significant positional adjustment, with swingman Harry Petty confirmed to defence during a match simulation drill.

• Petty played on former Pie Brody Mihocek and alongside Tom McDonald, with Jake Lever positioned at the opposite end playing for the opposing side.

• Steven May, who part of a large group of players who completed running during the match sim.

• Kozzie Pickett was utilised exclusively through the midfield, while Jack Steele and Caleb Windsor were the most prominent players on the ground.

• Tom Sparrow played as a forward but defensively on Changkuoth Jiath, whilst hard runner Harry Sharp played deep forward with his pressure particularly noteworthy.

• “While he sat out the match sim, draftee Latrelle Pickett showed flashes of his talent with a couple of exciting moves through traffic during earlier drills”.

HARVEY WALLBANGER'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Absent: TMac, AMW and Bowey (surgery)

Serious Rehab: Viney (Foot), Henderson (Groin), McAdam (Achilles), Matthews (PCL)

Other Rehab: Langford, Turner (Hamstring), Gawn (Hamstring), Langdon, Melksham

What's the opposite to "training the house down"?

Let's see how many of the "other rehab" group participate on Wednesday.

Another mixed bag of training - small group doing 3/4 field match sim. The remainder doing other craft drills.

Max (Hamstring Awareness) was running unimpeded.

Whitford (Development coach) working with the draftees and Cat B's.

GHOSTWRITER'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Harvery Langford is rehabbing. At Friday’s training he copped a knee to his temple and he’s now on concussion protocols.

Disco (Hamstring Awareness) is running really well.

Bowser is having surgery on his foot this afternoon. The injury is more serious than they thought. He has a torn ligament. He was running the week before last but they didn’t know then what they now know. If he wasn’t having the surgery, he would still be able to run at some point in the future but he wouldn’t be able to change direction at speed.

Speaking of an injury worse than what was first thought, Vines is another player who is taking longer to recover. He’s had the foot issue for six weeks and he should really be right by now. I’ve been promised an update next week.

Tommy Matthews is running!!!!! It’s so good to see. He’s been champing at the bit to start running and the joy shows on his face.

TMac is a no-show because he has a family engagement to attend.

Max (Hamstring Awareness) has “a niggle” and they’re exercising extreme caution.

According to the medics McAdam he’s tracking well, level with what’s expected.

According to the medical staff we’re not. Only Bowser and Vines are considered “long-term.” The worry and stress we experience on here is largely unwarranted. It’s a whole different outlook from the staff. he’s tracking well, level with what’s expected.

Saw Kalani take a run and jump grab on the boundary and you’d swear it was Jeff out there.

OLD55'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Here's my take on the injury front which I shared at training today ...

We're in development mode with a new coach and a young list (yes I know we are 2nd oldest by average but that's skewed by a handfull of veterans). We're not in contention and I expect a bottom 6 finish.

We need to cycle through the list and find out who's going to make it and where, and who's not.

Of the 44 listed players there's less than a handful that, if fit, wouldn't be ready to play AFL - White, Berry (needs to get his running up to AFL standard), maybe Onley - the rest look ready to go including Mentha, Kentfield, Taylor, LSP and Matthews. We need to find out what they've got. Some injuries open up opportunities.

MELBOURNE POTTER'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

McAdam was doing laps at a reasonable pace and looked unimpeded. Hopefully he can step up from there.

JVR looked very good at training. He moved quick and took few good marks in the match sim.

BEELZEBUB'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

McAdam didn't look overly restricted. Just running the boundary though.

Max looked fine.... one test after another... all in his stride. Seemed very comfortable.

JVR incurred the wrath of Kingy at one point. Expletives were used.. lol. Roo might want to have a bit of a think. Others breathing down his neck.

Just now, Ghostwriter said:

But after training Kingy and Roo walked back to AAMI together and Kingy had his hand on Roo’s back and was talking to him in a gentle tone.

Roo wants to pay attention.

In the one on one drill Kingy was running, a defender versed a forward... the drill was not ( apparently) deemed finished til either the ball was kicked for score, or defender kicked it back to ( couldn’t tell )

Roos 2nd ( 3rd all but non existent) efforts were , well, lax. He was let known in no uncertain terms 😉

Just sayin' what was in front of me .

Others seemed... umm... more keen.

Just now, Ghostwriter said:

Oh, I was by no means disputing what you said. I just wanted to make a point of saying that the spray Rooey copped was followed by a more gentle explanation, if you will. I think this is great coaching.

I don't doubt it. 😉

What i took away from today is very few magnets are already on the board 😉

No one should take anything for granted.

And that's how it should be.

I liked the looks of Moose... Luker was in seemingly fine fiddle. Roo looked out of sorts at times.

Just my take.

OLD DEE'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Just on the way home after going to my first training run for the 2026 season. Among other things I took the binoculars so I could watch certain players of our tall forwards I thought Kentfield was the best. I watched Jefferson the most, believe me I am trying to be neutral in my opinion on today and it is still early December however I saw nothing to suggest he is about become a key forward at senior level. He looked casual today from what I saw. Turner is a lot bigger player up close than what you normally see from afar in a game at the G. There were a few I had to keep checking to find out who they were. The next best thing was the weather, a great day to watch a bit of training from under the trees. At one point I thought it was raining but know the sprinklers had come in field behind me.

HELLFIRE DUB'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Lovely morning at the Paddock.

The team vibe was good and seemed a lot happier than the few times I was there last year.

Maysie was doing some resistance training by running with the big elastic band because he said he was a bit tight and sore after the other day.

I didn't stay long due to the short attention span of a junior demon with me, but quite a few of the players signed the sherrin and posed for a picture.

MELBORN4VR'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

First time at training his morning. Took a bit of time to work out new recruits and numbers.

2 halves match simulation- Mihocek and Rooey look good. Rivers moves very well through midfield contests. Latrelle has some magic. Heard Kingy say- why wouldn’t you give it too him? Steele looks very solid.

One issue. I thought on set shots kicking to goal, often misses were associated with having to lean back because forwards were getting in too close to man on mark.

We have some talented players, and I was encouraged by more of an attempt to look for passes into the forwards, rather than the bombing in of the last few years. Hopefully this carries forward into the forthcoming season.

Let’s keep our fingers crossed with our new coaching team bringing some success!

DEMONLAND'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Viney limped over from the Bubble Dome sans training guernsey.

Present

Steven May, Jacob van Rooyen, Christian Salem, Harvey Langford, Xavier Lindsay, Caleb Windsor, Jack Viney (in rehab),  Jake Lever, Jack Steele, Daniel Turner, Max Gawn, Koltyn Tholstrup, Jai Culley, Changkuoth Jiath, Ed Langdon, Bailey Laurie, Jake Melksham, Xavier Taylor, Thomas Matthews, Matt Jefferson, Blake Howes, Shane McAdam, Trent Rivers, Tom McDonald, Jed Adams , Max Heath, Brody Mihocek, Tom Campbell, Harry Sharp, Bayley Fritsch, Tom Sparrow, Latrelle Sumner-Pickett, Kalani White, Harry Petty, Kysaiah Pickett, Kade Chandler, Oscar Berry, Ricky Mentha Jnr, Riley Onley, Aidan Johnson, Jack Henderson (in rehab), Luker Kentfield and Andy Moniz-Wakefield

Absent

Jake Bowey

Players going through various warm up exercises. 

Henderson and Viney handballing to each other. Viney not moving very well.

McAdam started with the group doing warmups but has come to the shed to take off the boots and put the runners on. 

Melksham also appears to be amongst the rehabbers as is Matthews. 

Rehab:

Viney, Matthews, Melksham, McAdam & Henderson

Melksham jogging laps. 

McAdam & Matthews doing exercises with a trainer. 

Viney & Henderson on the bikes. 

Main group still doing warm up run throughs. 

Daniel Turner has come from the ground towards the trainers pointing to his hammy. Currently on his back getting his leg stretched. 

The footys are finally out.

Players start on the half back and kick to a player in the middle and original player runs past for the handball and kicks to a player on the half forward flank. Rinse, repeat.

Turner jogging laps.

Bowey has arrived on crutches and in a moon boot. 😳

McAdam jogging laps with Reece Conca.

Moniz-Wakefield has joined the rehabbers as expected after doing all the warm ups with the main group. Doing short sharp sprints changing direction and moving laterally. Shouldn’t be too far away.

Drill:

Ball starts in the back pocket and rolled out to a player for a ground ball get. Player immediately looks for a cross and the ball is run up the field with a series of quick handballs and longer kicks to players leading toward the player with the ball. Ending with a shot for goal on the run. Very fast ball movement. Players running in waves. 5 or 6 players in white bibs for some pressure.

A lot of Pickett to Pickett action. Love to see it. 

Split into two groups. Red and white bibs for Match SIM

MIDS

RED Max, Culley, Windsor, Sparrow Rivers

WHITE Campbell, Pickett, Langford, Tholstrup, Steele

Not participating in Match SIM: White, L Pickett, Onley (and any of the rehabbers mentioned)

Lindsay now running laps. Not sure why.

Max has come from the field and doing some short 50m runs.

Walking wounded today. 😳

White Bibs: May, JVR, Salem, Langford, Steele, Max (came of Injured), Tholstrup, Taylor, Jefferson, Howes, Adams, Heath, Sharp, K Pickett, Johnson, Mentha

Red: TMac, Petty, Jiath, Windsor, Sparrow, Lever, Mihocek, Fritsch, Laurie, Culley, Berry, Kentfield, Rivers, Chandler

When Max came off. Campbell took white bibs off and became a red and Heath took over the White Bibs rucking duties. Pecking order?

Onley, L Pickett & White have joined the Match SIM

Turner & Max jogging laps together.

Lindsay on the bikes.

I’ll elaborate on individual players from the Match SIM later but overall the SIM was very fast paced and tackling was fierce. Skills were hit and miss (some was superb) but the pressure was high and it was 16 on 16 utilizing the whole ground.

Match SIM finished. They’ve split into two groups for two separate drills. One drill starts on the wing and involves two players kicking a ball each to two assistants and getting the ball back and kicking to a leading forward either Mihocek, JVR, Jefferson, Fritsch or White.

I can’t work out what is happening with the other drill. Mostly defenders but Windsor and Pickett involved too. Mix of red and pink bibs but it doesn’t appear as if the bibs mean anything as red kicking to pink. It will remain a mystery. 🤣

In summary. Rehab started with Viney, Matthews, Melksham, AMW, McAdam & Henderson.

During training Max, Lindsay, & Turner all came from the field and took no further part in training. Max ran some short runs along the boundary, Turner ran a number of laps and Lindsay ran some laps and got then got on the bikes. None of them look too hampered and at this stage I would say it is precautionary. Watch this space.

Bowey in civvies with crutches and moon boot on left foot.

The Russian Mark Jamar is here taking Campbell and Heath for a session on the rucking bag. 

May and Petty doing timed 150m runs around the boundary. 

Drill:

9 vs 5 Fast ball movement and gut running drill. Ball starts on half back with ground ball get. Fast ball movement down the field. Lots of playing on. Once the ball get to the forward line. The assistants kick the ball quickly to each other up the field and getting the ball back to the deep in the back line as the participating players have to gut run to defense to do it all again. After the second forward entry the 14 participating players swap out with the other group. Rinse and Repeat. Players gassed at the end.

Some short observations on individual players. With so many players out there I have not been as laser focused on some of them. I have also been paying more attention to a number of the newer recruits. There are also players who, for various reasons, do not stand out and tend to blend in. This might be because they are wearing a hat, do not have a number on their guernsey, or are wearing a bib that obscures their number. I wanted to mention this as well as the fact that some players are simply doing what is expected of them, so I may not have written about them in previous observations.

May: This was May's first week back at Gosch's following the end of season break and the Training Camp. Fellow trackwatchers noted that he does not seem to be in the same peak condition as some of the other returning players. On Monday I noted that he seemed gassed after the gut running drill, although he was not the only one. He and Petty did not compete in that particular drill today and were doing timed 150 metre fast runs along the boundary instead. During Match SIM he was playing a key defender role. His disposal in these drills, under little pressure, was great. The make up of our key defender positions will be interesting to watch given that it was reported in the off season that May was shopped around or asked to explore his options. It is certainly a case of watch this space.

JVR: Has trimmed down a lot in the offseason. His short haircut no doubt amplifies this. He looks super fit and is attacking the ball on leads with ferocity while tackling just as hard. He needs a big year and I am hoping that with the arrival of Mihocek he can finally be given some support. With a five man bench it will be interesting to see what we do in terms of using a second ruckman. As has been noted, having JVR take on the back up ruck duties has not helped his forward game because he has to run up and down the field for five to eight minutes each quarter. I'm hoping for a break out year.

Salem: Often gets overlooked in training reports because he is always dependable, doing what is expected and showing those silky skills. It is great to see him get an uninterrupted full preseason, at least so far, under his belt.

Langford: Will be a star. Always so composed and always seems to have time and space, never looking rushed. Rarely misses a target and places most passes with perfect weight. Given our midfield changes, expect him to be in the centre square for the first bounce in Round 1.

Lindsay: Classy user of the footy. He was in the rehab group on the bike for most of today's session, but I have been very impressed with what I have seen from him so far this offseason.

Windsor: He seems to be the go-to player to start any play, whether off half back or through the midfield. I have been extremely impressed with his class and his effort at every session. One of the best on ground at every session.

Viney: Hopefully has a quick recovery from whatever foot related ailment is troubling him. Has a noticeable limp. He only returned to the training track this week but has spent most of the time on the bike and encouraging the team from the sidelines.

Lever: Fantastic to see Rick past the injuries he sustained throughout last season and now getting a full preseason under his belt. He is one of the first players on the field and one of the last to leave. He has been at training from Day 1, even though he was not required back until the training camp last week. He is one of the most vocal and supportive players on the field, as you would expect from the professional leader that he is.

Steele: Even though he is one of the new players I have been keen to watch, Jack often blends into the group and I have not been able to follow him as closely as I would like. It might be because he is always wearing a hat and does not have a number on his guernsey. Every time I do notice him he is doing exactly what I would expect from a player of his calibre. He tackles hard, is always running and chasing the ball, and shows clean skills. He will fill Viney's role well if Viney is absent early on.

Turner: Only returned to Gosch's this week so I have only one session to judge him. He is currently training with the Defenders and has the cleanest hand and reads the ball so well in the air. Rarely gets outmarked. Came off the field early with a hamstring niggle. Hopefully it is not too serious and it was just a precaution. Ran laps for most of the session once he came off the ground.

Max: Max doing Max things. Looks in great shape. Came off the ground early in the Match SIM and was doing some short runs along the boundary. No idea if he felt a niggle somewhere and came off as a precaution.

Tholstrup: Will be an interesting watch this season. Had a disappointing 2024. Needs a fresh start. Seems to be giving 100% effort. Playing as a midfielder. Make or break this year.

Culley: One of the standouts for me. Playing as a mid. He is so strong in the air. Can take a grab and has very nice skills. Expect him to play a mix of mid, wing and drift forward. A lot to like. I think we got a bargain here.

CJ: He is the player I am most excited to see play next year. A lot of run and carry and dash off half back. An excitement machine. I was worried about his disposal based on anecdotal evidence from spoiled, salty Hawks but so far I have not seen any of the concerns that were relayed to me. The pressure of match day will be the big test but so far I am excited by what I have seen.

Langdon: Doing Langdon stuff. Always running.

Laurie: Bill is a fascinating case. He excels at VFL level and looks impressive on the training track, yet he has had very few chances to show what he can do at senior level. This preseason he is being used as a forward, but for mine there are several small forwards who appear to be ahead of him, including Thomas Matthews, who is still in rehab. It feels like a last roll of the dice for him, and he needs to make the most of any opportunity he gets.

Bowey: Always a smooth operator with the ball in hand. Seeing him on crutches and in a moon boot at training today was a real blow. Hopefully it is nothing too serious and he is back tearing up the track after Christmas. He is very important to the team and I am keen to see how he is used under King and the new game plan.

Melksham: A consummate professional on the training track. He and TMac set the gold standard for preseason training standards. It will be interesting to see where he fits in the new-look Dees forward line, but he will give absolutely everything. He was jogging laps today on a limited program for some reason, and hopefully it is only load management and not some other niggle.

Taylor: Tough nut that reads the ball really well in the air. Has been a bit hit and miss with his disposal at times but I just love that from Day 1 at training he had the balls to not play it safe and to take the game on. As a consequence he bit more off than he could chew and was either caught or put under pressure. I have a feeling he will work his way into Rivers role in defence allowing Trent to play more midfield time.

Matthews: Recovering from a PCL and has been in rehab. I like the highlights I have seen and the fact that he is described as leader. Can't wait to see him in action.

Jefferson: Another interesting case. He will surely need to prove himself at Casey if he wants to break into the senior side. I would love to see a bit more mongrel from him both at training and on game day. He has clean hands and is an accurate kick for goal.Likely the last roll of the dice for him too this season. Luker Kentfield is breathing down his neck.

Howes: Blake is another player I barely notice on the training track, but whenever I do, his disposal is always clean. I am keen to see where King views his best position.

McAdam: Disappointing to see such a talented player still in rehab and likely to miss another preseason block. Achilles injuries are cruel and take a long time to mend. He is another who will need to make the most of his opportunity once his body is right.

Rivers: Given the changes to our midfield over the offseason Rivers must grab this opportunity to make the position his own.

McDonald: Like Lever, TMac is one of the first on and last off the track. A consummate professional. He deserves a place in the best 23, but there are so many tall defenders competing for only a few spots. The Key Defender position might be one of the most interesting positions to watch this season.

Adams: Another player I do not notice much of on the training track. Clean hands and neat disposal I think the true test for Jed will be on the field. Will no doubt start at Casey but must take the opportunity with both hands if given a crack at some point in the year like Petty did in 2021.

Heath: A big body and very athletic for his size. Has an excellent pair of hands and clean disposal for a guy his size. Has a nice accurate shot on goal. Not sure what his tank is like and hopefully he can learn a thing or two from Max. I hope that he gets an opportunity at some point this season particularly given the 5 man bench.

Mihocek: I was very happy to trade in Brody. He is just what the Doctor ordered for our forward line. Will provide a nice foil for JVR and will work very well with Fritta. Leads at the ball well. Excellent hands. Very accurate kick on goal.

Campbell: Break glass in case of Emergency.

Sharp: Haven't seen much of him on the track. Runs all day. Does some nice things. Can find the goals. Will be in and out of the team. Good role player.

Fritsch: Fritta looks like a new man this season. I can't quite put my finger on it. Was impressed that he was back almost from Day 1 even when he wasn't required. At the early sessions when most positions weren't back yet and we lacked defenders he was training further up the ground. Now with almost a full squad he is back to the forward line out bodying bigger opponents, taking grabs and kicking snags. Fellow trackwatchers were gobsmacked at the amount of times he was unselfish and dished off the ball when he could have had a shot. He even handballed. Perhaps the message has been received.

Sparrow: Nothing much new to report regarding Spaz. Gets a lot of the footy. Playing in the middle. Wouldn't mind him pushing forward a little bit.

Latrelle Pickett: Love everything I have seen from Trelly. Classy user of the ball, can sell candy, has pace and can work his way up and down the ground. It is a thing of beauty to watch the two Picketts combine. It will set the G on fire.

White: Tall, skinny and athletic. Has a nice pair of hand and a nice leap. I haven't seen much of him but he will take time to develop. A year in the gym will do him the world of good as will learning at the feet of one of the greatest rucks in history as well as the two other big body rucks. I expect that he will cut his teeth in the forward line at Casey.

Petty: Much to the relief of a lot of Demonlanders Petty is back training with the Defenders. He reads the ball so well in the air and has a very clean pair of hands. Having an uninterrupted preseason will be a blessing for him too.

Kozzy: Absolutely sublime. Lock him in as a full time midfielder. He is electric on the training track. You could sell tickets just to watch him practice. Not much more to say about him. Star.

Chandler: Have seen Kade's leadership qualities blossom this preseason. Expect him to play the high half forward role this season.

Berry: Obviously a project player. First Category B player that I think we've selected that looks like a natural rather than someone that needs to learn. Needs to build a fitness base for the elite level. Will be a better for the preseason and a season under his belt. Looks like he has decent skills.

Mentha: Has skill and some nice tricks, but not the same spark the two Picketts have. I had hoped he might work his way into the senior side at some point in 2026, but the drafting of Latrelle has probably made that task a little tougher.

Onley: Big fan of Onley. Tall for a midfielder at 195cm. He is the same height as Lever and has the body for senior footy. Will no doubt start at Casey but I have a feeling he will play senior footy in 2026. Just another gut feeling.

Johnson: Still a back up forward and ruck that can pinch hit in the seniors if required. Will most likely play footy at Casey.

Henderson: Has been in rehab most of the preseason. I see him as a very good VFL player. Can also pinch hit in the seniors as a role player but I see him playing most of his footy at Casey.

Kentfield: Very impressed with this kid. Saw a little bit of him in the back end of Casey season and he impressed with his marking and goal kicking ability. Has no preseason due to illness last year and has come back to the club this preseason looking fit and trimmed down but still a good size. Could be the surprise packet up forward for us some time in 2026. He may even be ahead of Jefferson. Like Jeffo the ball is in his court to earn that spot and keep it.

Moniz-Wakefield: He is itching to get out of rehab and join the full squad. If he can stay fit I think he will resume his role in the backline. I'm predicting a big year for AMW.

KEV'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

It was a mouthguards in day. The weather, mild temperature and a consistent wind blowing down the Paddock.

Initial drills had a group doing kick to kick, another of laissez-faire goal kicking, and one I didn’t really take notice of. Interestingly they didn’t rotate, my guess is they put them into groups that work on particular crafts.

The structured sims continue to emphasize fast ball movement, with offence outnumbering defense. Though they are starting them in areas of greater pressure. Once the ball gets out they go fast, often looking for centre or well inside the boundary, then asking for angled kicks into a forward player.

They went to a full field game. Two ten minute halves. Non bibs dominated. The bibs were pressured, couldn't find space and made some fundamental errors. The non bibs appeared to have an extra (though they didn't), especially in the forward area where a loose player made that last kick easier.

Culley doing plenty, aerial work with numerous follow-up efforts. TMac everywhere, including many intercepts. The forwards for the bibs barely got a look in, and when it came down their way there was a scramble. Koltyn set up well, he hit the central kick numerous times. Jefferson (high up the field), looking strong, beat Petty with some playing in front and taking contested marks. Mentha looking for the ball on the outside. Latrelle, getting used to the speed, had to rush his disposals. Taylor switched off a couple of times, though is a ball magnet, has a swagger and very good hands (so clean). Laurie is playing smart footy, heavily involved, linking well and getting to the next contest. Still lacking speed. AJ is working the hardest out there, two way running, gets the ball and goes again. They attempted to bring the bibs into the game by starting at the 50 arc, but it didn't work, non-bibs dominating. Rivers loved what they were doing, the defensive and ball movement into the forwards.

After the game they went to structured sims, where offence out numbered the defense again.

They started the ball in an area where the defenders had a chance to close it down. So when the mids get the ball they have to break the line by spreading or with smart handballs. Once it is out they run hard and then hit an open area. The pressure is on them to be clean as sloppy slows the whole process down.

They then moved into their line groups. Rivers taking the backs. Chaplin with the forwards. A mid or two in both lines, who bring the ball in or take it out. Taylor with the backs.

Finished with goal kicking.

Interspersed through the session was group, small group and individual sprints or laps.

They also had them sprint to the water bottles after a few of the drills/sims finished.

They are a happy lot. Great to see Gawn and May talking and enjoying each other's company in between exercises. There is plenty of equality out there.

REDLEG23'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Beautiful conditions both playing & creeping. Got there 10:30, stayed for about 50.

• Kozz & Lindsay sneak away for a one-knee wizz . Kozz more impressive, hurdles over fence.

• Disco running laps - left knee lightly strapped, moving fine. Rest of the lap runners: Shane McAdam, AMW - good pace & pushing. Melk, Lindsay joins in later for some laps with Disco. Moving at a good clip.

• Roo looking super lean & fit. Like the new trim👍

• CJ always looking to move the game forward from the back half. Good energy. Good bounce.

• Heathe’s a specimen. Dont ask me about his footy, haven’t seen him play yet🤷‍♂️

Match Sim:

• Jeffo’s a smooth mover across the ground. Couple nice run & bouncers streaming into F50 from HHF. Settle PF setttllleee ✋ 

• Kozz doing Kozz

• Culley with the beautiful baulk & goal from 40 👏

• Kolt caught holding the pill. Have noticed this a few times with him. Seems to always be when he tries to step or run around a player. Don’t know if his lateral movement is any good? Turn over. Goal the other way.

• Reds now dominating. 49-14, 2nd term

• Max not in match sim. Joins disco for some laps. Looks fine.

• Gee Tmac looks fantastic. Kicking low darts to target all sesh 👏 

• Jai Culley flies high with a beauty contested mark on the D50 arc. Love his aerial game. Someone other than Max for the relieving mark down the flank will be great 👍 

• GAME: red 73 - white 21

WHISPERING JACK'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

I attended training and really appreciate the reports from all who wrote about the session. I have little to offer above and beyond that aside from reiterating the memorable words of Dennis Denuto in The Castle, that I enjoyed "the vibe" of the session. There appears to be a more relaxed mood prevailing, in contrast to the last couple of seasons, which were clouded by off-field issues and injuries. Hopefully, this translates into a more successful outcome on the field when we turn up to watch the team play for points again.

DEESPENCER'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Hendo and Viney on the exercise bike.

McAdam and Matthews rehab. Bowser labs. AMW pulled out of some drills.

Warm up exercises seemed really footy movement focused. Cutting hard after receiving handballs. Simulating a ground ball and burst from pack.

Then in to a couple of groups of figure 8 kicking. This was sharper than I’ve seen us for a couple of years.

Latrelle Pickett balances up and has a bit of a hunched over technique but he gets the footy low and fast to team mates consistently.

Berry is a very reliable kick.

Jeff Jnr (Kalani White) has good skills, well done to the Suns academy coaches.

Ground split down the middle from goal.

Group A gets the ball in the back pocket and has to switch then take the ball up to score. Group B doing the same the other way. Group C resting. On pretty quick rotation.

8 on 5 so it’s not difficult. But focus on running hard to space and establishing a deep forward.

Quick fire handballs for one group of players. 2/3rds of the ground match sim for the others. Even numbers with a pink jumper going both ways.

Couple of very quick Latrell run down tackles. He wanted no part in a mark back with the flight with May bearing down but he was quickly back on the contest and pulled the Kossie ghost step where the defender had no read on where he was going before he lasered a kicked inside (which was intercepted but it was a good bad kick)

Xavier Taylor got the pink jumper and looked sharp presenting and using the footy, then bit of more that he could chew trying to run through 2 tacklers which sapped him off energy.

Having a close look at Riley Onley in 40. He was out run for a loose ball by Sharp but then nearly chased him down. Then he just about took mark of the year. Missed a regulation handball to Xavier Lindsay who cleaned it up, got it back to him on the run and his burst of speed opened it right up.

DEMON JACK'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Just arrived and Jeffo is indeed training with the main group.

Bowey and McAdam running along the boundary.

Not sure if it's been touched on before, but it looks like AMW is also in full training

Now AMW is doing some individual drills. Might not be quite ready ready yet but doesn't look far away.

Tommy Matthews also doing some work on the boundary.

Lever looks fit and over his ankle issues. Moving freely.

Boys are currently working on a some quick transition drills. Handpass to a moving player who kicks it to a player on the lead. Once they mark it they handpass it and so on.

All and all, nice skills on show. Not too many flubbed kicks. Both Taylor and Trelly Pickett know how to find a chest. Nice skills on show.

Boys have now donned pink or white bibs and habe split into three groups and are playing a game of keepings off. Handpass to players wearing the same coloured bib while the other colour applies pressure.

May wraps Trelly up with a big bear tackle. Welcome to AFL footy young man!

Trelly hands it off to Kozzy who nails a pinpoint pass to JVR in the left forward pocket.

JVR absolutely shanks the snap. Expletives follow.

Disco's skills have been great to watch so far today. Looks primed for a big '26 wherever he ends up playing.

CJ has been a bit off with his disposal by hand today. Looks better when he elects to kick.

Jai Culley shrugs two tackles (losing his headband in the process) and is still able to get his handpass away.

May now doing some running on the boundary.

Windsor's kicking is sublime.

Lever looks to be completely over his ankle issues. Doesn't look hampered at all.

Riley Onley attempts an audacious grab in the centre of the ground to the gasps of the crowd. Doesn't quite nail his timing, but it looked great!

CJ will be an exciting watch off half back. As long as he plays within his limitations (his disposal by hand looked a bit off today) I think he'll be a good pick up. Loved his evasive work in some of the tight contest drills today.

Didn't notice Mihocek or Steele much.

WAYNE WUSSELL'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Some impressions from today's session,

Bill continues to be a prolific link man, always trying to be evasive with the ball. generally, makes short kicks on all angles, but a few turnovers are costly.

Langford has grown! He is now very close to May in height and not far below in build. (He did look sore mid-session with a tweak of his upper left leg)

Salem is looking very good and will be in our 23 come round 1

Langdon motors on, and continues to give us drive

Bowey spent a lot of time running the boundary

Melksham had some concern with a leg problem. I thought I heard him tell a trainer that it was from the previous session. He got some massage fro the trainer for a while.

McAdam ran hard on the boundary line for most of the session

Started to notice the old run and long kicks from Riv.

Tom McDonald looks very fit

Petty is quicker than he is given credit for

At one point early on the brothers were in a group taking around-the-corner shots at goal. McAdam, Ricky jnr, AMW (who has joined the group) and 'Cussey' all succeeded. The odd man out was Kossie!

Watching the ruck pairs, Max v Tom Campbell, Max Heath v Kalani White. In summary, Max was impressive, as always, against a very strong and very experienced competitor. It is clear that Heath is too strong for Kalani at this stage of development.

I was impressed with Steele and Mihocek throughout, both in the sims and in the runs. Mihocek regularly led his group and seems to have fully recovered from any 2025 season niggles. Heath impressed more than he has previously with his size, marking and athleticism. CJ bursts like a maniac from half-back. He seems to have that Russell Rhino Richards approach to run and carry!

SLARTIBARTFAST'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

A good summary by all the track watchers so I've only these observations to add:

1. Trelly was leading his running group easily and looks very fit. He was cruising along while those behind him were clearly working hard. He also shows great footy IQ when in sims.

2. Riley Onley is not slow. I had that fear when we drafted him but today watching him he covered the ground really well and is a fascinating watch.

3. Hendo did little if anything. He's been doing lots of running but not today. Hope his groin hasn't flared.

4. Tommy Matthews is a chunky young man with a terrific grin 😁. Not doing much at the moment but I'm predicting "fan favourite" status.

5. I really like our trainers helping the rehab group. Players like Shane McAdam are doing heaps of running which I'd imagine is fairly difficult and boring but the trainers were often running with him (and others) offering encouragement. Same with Tommy Matthews who is doing all sorts of different hopping and jumping exercises. The trainers are really good with their advice and encouragement. They didn't run with Bowser because they couldn't keep up!

6. Tmac looks in ripping shape and Jed Adams was back today having missed Monday.

7. Oscar Berry, who has a very similar body shape to Sesto (but taller) looks very comfortable in all the drills with good skills. He is a project but he's well along the way, not like some of our other B rookies. We will know fairly quickly if we've "found one".

GHOSTWRITER'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

TMac is the first person out. Very early and very keen.

Tommy Matthews … amazing news I just heard. He’ll be fit for selection by Round One. Pete is the head physio and he’d know.

Not a pleasant sight to see, Vines limping across from the rooms. And not just a slight limp, a prominent one. All good though, he’s just had an injection in his foot so it’s very tender. He’s here to support the boys.

Vines said he’s doing a lot of both stationary bike and pool. And when he wasn’t tapping players’ hands when they came on and off the ground or helping out with the rehab guys he was on the bike.

Oh my god. Adam Tomlinson just arrived and now my day is complete. 🥹 He’s really happy and is looking in great shape. He came to watch training and hang with the boys for a bit.

Xavier Taylor’s nickname is indeed “Reg” (his middle name is Reginald, his grandfather’s name). He came to the club with it and wasn’t sure it would stick, but it has. He’s also fine with “Reggie.”

We (the DA) need to know nicknames for the purpose of handheld banners and signs etc., as well as for chants. I was walking with Koz and Trelly and I told them we plan to chant Trelly Trelly Trelly Oi Oi Oi when he goals. Firstly, the look on Trelly’s face… priceless. He was rapt. He was like “Really???” I’m not 100% sure but I think he was blushing. But even more heartwarming, I snuck a look at Kozzie’s face (he was looking down at the ground but listening) and the unmistakable smile of pride was quite something.

I told them some in the DA wanted to chant Kuzzy Kuzzy Kuzzy etc. but we’ve decided it sounds too similar to Kozzie Kozzie Kozzie. Trelly said “Yeah, I don’t want him (Koz) stealing the glory for my goals” 😅

DEMONLAND'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Present: May, JVR, Salem, Langford, Lindsay, Windsor, Lever, Steele, Turner, Gawn, Tholstrup, Culley, CH, Langdon, Laurie, Melksham, Taylor, Jefferson, Howes, Rivers, McDonald, Mihocek, Heath, Campbell, Sharp, Fritsch, Sparrow, L Pickett, Petty, K Pickett, Chandler, Berry, Mentha, Johnson, Kentfield, Onley & White

Rehab: Viney, McAdam, Bowey, AMW, Henderson & Matthews

Absent: Adams

Rain is starting to come down so it’s a great opportunity to work on that wet weather footy.

Lindsay (#5), White (#34), Berry (#38) & Heath (#27) don’t have numbers on their guernseys yet. Steele (#9) is still wearing number 46.

Rookie recruit Riley Onley is a big boy. As tall as Lever and built much bigger. 

Kalani White is very tall and skinny but moves like an athlete. 

The squad has broken up into 4 smaller groups for some warm up drills. 

1. Ball dribble out by assistants to 3 players. One collects the ground ball handballs quickly to the next guy who handballs quickly to the next guy. 

2. 4 on 4 close quarters keepings off handball

3. 7 on 3 ball movement up the wing. 3 defenders constantly swapping each time. 

4. Goal kicking practice. 

The sun is back out and the ball and field is drying. So much for that wet weather footy practice. 

Bowser running laps. Doesn't look too far away from resuming training with the main group.

In the Shed doing rehab is McAdam on the rower. Viney, Matthews & Henderson are on the bikes. All moving at a fast pace.

JVR off to the rooms to get what looks like his bottom lip stitched up. Apparently his tooth went through his bottom lip.

AMW & Mihocek have joined in on the rotation of drills. 

Onley has come from the ground with a knock to the nose ….. and he’s back on. 

Mihocek doesn’t miss a set shot …. And having just said that just missed one. He previously kicked about 5 in a row on a slight angle 30-35 metres out.

 The squad has now split into 4 groups for another 4 small drills. 

1. 3 vs 3 have to run to starting in the middle of two poles in the ground and have to run towards them and then run around the pole and back to the middle to collect the ground ball before the other team.

2. 1 vs 1 ground ball get. Player that doesn’t get the ball has to tackle the other one. 

3. 1 v 1 high ball marking contest. 

4. 1 vs 1 ground ball rolled in front of one player who collects it while the other guy tries to tackle and the guy with the ball has to break the tackle by karate chopping the arm of the tackler. 

First time I’ve seen Disco this preseason. He has such strong sure hands in marking contests.

Heath is very strong in body on body marking contest and can take a grab.

Kozzy’s evasive skills are sublime but ya’ll knew that already.

JVR is back out and running laps.

Full ground match SIM.

Both Windsor & CJ getting a lot of the ball off half back.

As a side note when we traded in CJ I had a lot of Hawthorn mates claimed that CJ was not a good disposer of the footy. They claimed he had no issues getting the footy but didn't know what to do with it once the ball was in hand. So far I have observed that he has very clean foot skills. Let's see how he goes when the full pressure of match day is at hand. Currently I am quietly impressed.

Turner & Petty in defence as are May, Lever & TMac. Turner, Petty & May were on one team and TMac & Lever were on the other team.

Mihocek is taking part in the match SIM which is the first time I have observed him taking part in the contact drills at training.

Jefferson (others have reported that he is recovering from concussion so not taking part in contact drills), AMW & JVR running laps.

Viney, McAdam, Henderson & Matthews all doing weights and strength training in the shed. 

Rain coming down hard again. 

Heath playing forward on TMac 

Berry playing off half back.

Kozzy everywhere in the middle.

Latrelle playing forward but finding his way up the ground. Got the ball on the wing and followed the ball all the way to the forward line. Disposal fantastic. 

For the weather watchers the sun is back out. 

New drill. End to end. 10 vs 5 up the middle of the ground. 

This drill involves moving the ball quickly by hand and foot up the ground. When the ball goes deep into the forward line the assistants kick the ball to themselves up the field to the back line and all the 15 players on the field have to gut run from the forward line to the back line to do it again and then they switch out with another 15 players. A lot of running and fast ball movement. It's almost impossible for the 5 players to defend but the fast ball movement and gut running seems to be the main focus of the drill. Players are gassed when they take a break.

The new recruits are not taking part in this drill. Latrelle, Taylor, Onley, Berry & White. 

Jefferson & JVR are taking part in this drill.

Lindsay has been very impressive in the ball movement drills. Elite disposal. Same goes for Langford.

CJ has joined the new recruits doing 100m sprints along the boundary. And after that they were jogging half laps from goal posts to goal posts.

HARVEY WALLBANGER'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Jed Adams the only absentee.

Further to the other reports Viney, Henderson, Matthews and McAdam in what I would describe as "full rehab". Matthews getting special treatment related to his knee, so perhaps he is the furthest away from playing. Given Viney and McAdam are both achilles - hard to say about return dates. Henderson also hard to predict.

Bowey running laps (but does not look far away) and Jeffo in and out as described above. JVR got a knock to the lip - went back to AAMI for some patchwork - and after that resorted to running.

Pleasing aspects for me - Mihocek, Heath and Steele did the entire session unhampered and CJ did most of it.

Trelly Pickett is a gun - not just his skills - but the running capacity, confidence and willingness to join in. Pencil him in for Round 1. Windsor everywhere, when the ball needed to be moved.

I reckon Taylor will take a little while - in defence. Early call, but maybe not a lock for Round 1.

Onley a good size and moved smoothly - all the draftees and CJ did quite a bit of running towards the end - obviously still building their bases. AMW looking better and better - let's see if he does full sessions from January.

The word is that they will stay at Gosch's through until Friday 19 December. Training was scheduled for 10 am but they were out early and finished up around 12 pm.

All the old boys doing good old boys' stuff, i.e. including TMac and Melky in that group. Lever moving freely. May - an interesting watch.

SLARTIBARTFAST'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

1. Trelly looked really really good with his running and skills. Those having issues with using pick 12 need not worry I reckon.

2. Lindsay is starting to look really good, he was involved and skillful.

3. The full ground drills were significantly different to last year. Last year the focus was on ball movement and little if any contact. This year is was match practice with the ball being fully contested.

4. There is no luvy dovey stuff at training this year. There is good spirit but no whopping and hollering at the slightest opportunity. Very business like.

5. Culley very good.

6. Windsor and CJ the "go to" players out of the backline.

7. Kentfield a good chance to be this years bolter, moves well, good endurance, strong hands and a beautiful kick. I'm excited.

8. It might just be me but Vines looks like the weight of the world is off his shoulders looking so much more relaxed this year.

9. Did I mention Trelly?

10. Oscar Berry looks like the first B rookie from a BB background that looks like he could make it.

11. Sparrow in everything.

That is all......

ALEX NO FANCY-NAME'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

First time at a training session (other than kids' clinic) so don't really have any insightful insights to share.

CJ has been mentioned a few times; I liked the footwork and evasion, but was especially impressed with his delivery of the ball, he got it out of the back line and it kept going.

It was great to watch Kozzie (and Latrelle and Ricky) kicking goals at the end of the session. Worth the price of admission!

Final comment, I enjoyed watching the match sims, flowing footy without umpire interference, and no administrative 50s!

Another final observation, on the way out I was going to take a photo of the Melb Victory training for my "other" son, and was told by their staff that photography was prohibited. I couldn't be bothered arguing the point, but if you're part of a league trying to build a supporter base I am not sure this is the best attitude.

GHOSTWRITER'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

It looks as though my threats to burn down the MCG if the players continue to come out too early were taken seriously. Not a soul to be seen yet.

I met Latrelle!!! What an awesome boy he is. Kozzie smiled and pointed towards him, as if to say have at him 😅 Latrelle is NOT shy. He’s so friendly and loves a chat.

I also met Tommy Matthews. He’s a live wire! A lovely guy.

Of course I met Riley too. He’s a little more reserved. Taller in person than in pics.

Everyone is here. And omg they are looking fit af. Seriously, even the ones who already looked great look even better. The camp was a roaring success by all accounts. It’s obvious they’re still on a high. The energy is electric.

Shane’s running laps. He’s running really well. Both AMW and Melky had some white cream massaged into their kneecaps by Pete the physio. Pete says it’s routine, nothing to worry about.

Rooey’s on the boundary spitting out blood. Must’ve copped a hit to the mouth. Quite a bit of blood coming out. Now he’s being taken back to the rooms. 

Tommy Mathews is rehabbing his knee injury. He said he expects to be running “well before Chrissy.” 

Vines has an achilles issue (not serious) which is why he’s not training.

After training the boys were going back to AAMI for lunch (together). After lunch it’s gym time (all together), then they break off into groups; some do more running, some in the pool, some do extra gym work. They get Thursdays and Sundays off. On Saturdays they do hill-running.

It was interesting hearing about this from Xavier Taylor who can’t compare it to previous years. He talked about it in a very matter-of-fact way. I asked him if he finds any part of it challenging or even difficult and he said not at all.

Vines on the other hand said training is “very different now.” He said it’s more intense and more specialised, but that “we love it.” Probs easier for him to say that while he’s on light duties.

DEESPICABLE'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

What a difference three months make?

It was hard not to be impressed by the new faces and the speed of the new-look squad.

Gone are the distractions - sorry Trac and Olly - and in is pace. Sure we only had about 20min of match sim but you couldn't but help notice that slow, precise build-ups are out, replaced by manic speed of ball movement.

Almost everyone who has commented has noticed CJ's run and I am trying to remember a bigger early-season influencer or wow factor - he already shapes as the recruit of the year. He didn't just run and carry and kick long drop punts down the wing to Windsor - he also laid a couple of crunching tackles - one on Langford was a clear free kick to our second-year player. When coupled with Kozzie's constant pressure and elite kicking, it's hard not to see why there's a sense of excitement.

It was also hard not to like Brody Mihocek's lead up work, Turner's intercepting, Gawny and May's presence and the extra competitiveness of Sparrow, Culley and Laurie in the midfield.

As someone said earlier, Xavier Taylor may not be a Rd 1 lock just yet, but he did show a willingness to take the game on - even after he was caught taking a little too long to dispose of the ball on a couple of occasions.

All in all there must be 30 players at least in the mix for Rd 1 based on what I saw and that doesn't include Viney (rehab) and Adams (absent) who I'd expect to be ready post-X-mas.

And I imagine there's another thread for it, but guessing the Rd 1 team of 23 correctly would pay about 5000-1 at this stage.

WHERE DEMONS DARE'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

We arrived in the quaint little town of Myrtleford at 9am with a small crowd of primary school kids and roughly 15-20 onlookers. The boys were already into their drills with two different groups on either side of the wings, roughly 15 - 20 players either side.

Rehab:

Viney, Matthews, Henderson, AMW, McAdam, Jefferson and later Bowey who looked quite ginger (pun intended). Viney and Matthews doing repeat walking up and down a flight of stairs with some black devices in their mouths. Not sure of its purpose but it could possibly be to ensure they breathe through their nose? They then followed up with hand and eye coordination and reflex drills (juggling, ball tossing to one another in rapid fire) at which point Henderson joined them. After that finished the 3 of them spent the rest of the session doing weight training. The other rehabbers in AMW, McAdam and Jefferson were all doing repeat 100m boundary runs for the majority of the session followed by some touch work (reflexes) where a trainer would bullet kick to Hendo or McAdam who were standing 1 meter in front of each other and they had to trick each other into marking or letting it go so the guy behind him marked it, if the ball dropped the guy in-front won. It was amusing to watch. Hendo got the better of McAdam. Jefferson integrated into the main group with some drills.

Main training:

I was mainly focusing on the big group in-front of us, where they would use just the arcs from back 50 to fwd 50 working on ball movement. In this drill it was a 5 v 7 match up with the bigger group attacking and the smaller defending transition. The bigger group would use either corridor or wing, there was no real preference. I was paying attention to the new kids on these drills and was really impressed with Onley, he's a great size and so agile. Taylor was a bit disappointing with his kicking, he shanked quite a few kicks.

The next drill was 5 v 3 using 3/4 ground ball movement drills, taking the ball from the back 50 to a forward marking close to goal.

Mihocek, Tmac, Adams and Campbell doing 1v1 marking/spoil drills on each other while a trainer kicked in a high ball deep in the fwd 50.

The next drill had the boys doing quick handball movement where it was a 2 v 3 match-up with the trainers acting as the defenders and there were 3 attacking players who had to get past them within a 25m coned off area. Once the attackers had reached the end of the cones the next 3 were straight into play. It was non stop and the boys were pretty gassed by the end of it. Culley, Langford, Pickett and Windsor were the best in these drills.

The boys then went on to do 9 v 9 full ground ball drills trying to score end to end. There was a passage where CJ took on Kosi through the corridor thinking he could break away but was quickly taken down by Kosi. CJ was filthy with himself. The boys laid some crunching tackles during these plays. I saw JVR take down May and then quickly get up to pressure the loose ball in play and take down the next player. I was impressed with JVR's repeat efforts. The boys were absolutely gassed from these drills at it's the closest to match sim they could replicate. A lot of the boys were on their haunches sucking in the big ones trying to recover. I don't think I've ever seen Kosi so gassed he and many of the boys took a full minute to get back up.

The players then broke into their lines with their respective coaches (fwds, mids, defenders) I was paying close attention to who was in each group. Mentha and Laurie was in the fwds group and Chandler gave Laurie a big hug saying "welcome back, we missed you". Sharp, White and Latrelle also in the forward line. Rivers, Taylor and Turner in defence. Tholstrup and Culley with the mids.

As the training was drawing to a close, the entire main group would do 80m - 90m repeat sprints that they had to complete in 10/11 seconds and rest about 20-30 seconds before going again. They did about 10 of these repeat sprints.

Now that training was finished, Kingy brought the group in for a quick chat and then sent the players off to sign autographs and to some meet and greets with the locals.

Observations:

Draftees -

• Onley looked really impressive, I thought he moved very well and was so agile for a big mid. His kicking was a bit hit and miss. One definitely to watch.

• Taylor still very green, but he did some great tackles and pressure during ball movement drills. Kicking was a bit iffy today.

• Latrelle integrated well with the group, he moves well and has great pressure, he looks the most likely of our first draftee to break into the team.

• White was really good, he already seems like a regular player. I think doing the pre season last year with Melbourne has helped him to fit in right away with the team.

• Matthews was obviously doing rehab but is a good size and didn't look that much smaller than Hendo or Viney. He'll be good for us.

• Berry looks to be a medium defender in size and build. He'll need a bit of time to catch up to the AFL standard fitness levels, but I'm hopeful he'll strengthen our backline in time to come. Has leadership qualities.

That's about all I can think of for now. I hope you guys enjoy the report.

DEMONLAND'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Xavier Taylor is wearing #19 whilst Brody Mihocek has donned the #5 guernsey. Player without any numbers on their back: Lindsay, Lever (has not worn the number 8 at all this preseason), Kolt, Heath, Berry.

PLAYERS PRESENT:

JVR, Langford, Windsor, Mihocek, Lever, CJ, Gawn, Kolt, Culley, Laurie, Bowey, Lindsay, Jefferson, Howes, Adams, Sharp, Sparrow, Petty, Kozzy, Chandler, Mentha, Campbell, Heath, Kentfield, Henderson, Berry, Taylor, Johnson

PLAYERS ABSENT:

May, Salem TMac, Melksham*, Langdon, Viney, Turner, McAdam, Rivers, Fritsch

* POSTSCRIPT:

Jake Melksham was a late arrival and joined in some drills after warming up.

REHAB:

Henderson, who in addition to his current injury is reported to have tight glutes. He was noticeably hampered whilst running laps. Not quite a limp but NQR. Definitely running something out as an athlete where most of us would have retired to the couch to watch the cricket.

AMW is still in the final stages of his ACL Rehab and appears to be on track for a post Christmas return to the main group.

Mihocek, CJ, Campbell & Johnson floated in and out of the main group depending on the drill as a result of any injuries that they are carrying most notably any drills with heavy contact or lateral movements. None look too far away from resuming full training.

Warm up drill with player long kicking from half back to a player in the middle and then run past for the handball to kick to a player on half forward. 

New recruit Xavier Taylor looks composed marking and kicking well. 

Couple players peeling away from the main drill to train separately. Campbell, Mihocek, Taylor & AMW.

Mihocek & Campbell have re-joined the main group. Taylor watching the drill from the sidelines and is being instructed by various assistants on what the drill entails. He then joined many of the drills once instructed from the side.

Prepare for your houses to be trained down. Taylor just collected a ground ball sold some candy whilst moving laterally through traffic gave off a hand ball kept running and received it back before pin point kicking it long down field.

Such fast ball movement on display. Lot of controlled chaos ball.

Kozzy, Culley, Windsor & Langford all impressing through the middle of the ground.

JVR looks to have trimmed down considerably and looks in excellent condition.

Lever appears to be well and truly over the ankle injury that curtailed his season last year as well as the injuries that plagued his last preseason.

The incredible Melk has arrived and working separately with a trainer doing some warmups. Not sure whether he will join the main group or do his own separate program.

Broken up into 3 groups.

1. A one on one marking drill (Chaplin & Atkins)

2. A simulated ground ball get off half back to get it to the half forward line. 6 vs 3 (white bibs) - (King & Rivers)

3. 4 on 4 confined space keeping’s off handball drill. (Whitford & Jones)

Split into 2 groups on either wing. 4 (red) vs 4 (white) with 3 yellow bibs which seem to be on any team handballing in a congested area to eventually get it out of the area and then hit up a target leading out of full forward.

Melksham has joined this drill.

A couple of players who have been in and out of the “rehab” groups when it comes to to more contact or lateral movements are acting as the leading forwards. Mihocek with CJ acting as a defender. Campbell, Berry and Taylor at the other end.

Match SIM

Petty playing as a defender.

WHISPERING JACK'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

I couldn’t have selected a better day to return to Melbourne following a sojourn in the north, where sunshine prevailed in stark contrast to reports of icy winds and rain at home in early November. Today, I attended a training session at Gosch’s Paddock for my first Demons’ men’s preseason training session to a pleasant surprise in the form of new recruit Xavier Taylor from the Eastern Ranges. Taylor received the customary Demon Army hug of welcome and then proceeded to demonstrate all of the skills and talent expected of an early first round draft selection.

This was the first time I had seen him in the flesh but I had followed the highlights of his stellar season through the winter in the Coates Talent League and at Victoria Metro Under 18 level. I watched him carve up the Sandringham Dragons forwards on screen in a CTL Grand Final best-on-ground performance in the Ranges’ 15-point premiership victory where he controlled the air and the ground with 25 disposals and 15 marks. He ran onto the ground today and looked and felt completely at home with some skillful manoevres that suggested he is headed for a long and successful career. Unfortunately, his fellow draftees in Latrelle Pickett and Thomas Matthews (reputedly excitement machines par excellence) weren’t yet available so I’ll have to come back for some more before the team breaks off for the end of the year.

Taylor wasn’t the only player to impress. Kozzy Pickett was in everything , showcasing his innate ability to anticipate the exact point where the ball was about to arrive. The skipper appeared comfortable as he transitioned into training after his recent overseas trip and he had a good contest with a physically imposing trainee understudy ruckman in Max Heath from the Saints. New recruits Brody Mihocek and Changkuoth Jiath (CJ) were both in partial rehab, but demonstrated that they will bring new dimensions to the team's dynamic.

I liked the look of Blake Howes who showed a fair bit of run and there’s a bit of competition among budding key forwards JvR, Matt Jefferson and Luker Kentfield. Jai Culley looks a likely improver and very impressive wearing the number 13. Bailey Laurie is working hard for one of the spots opening up in the midfield.

As training finished for the men, the women came out for their final warm up session before tomorrow’s Preliminary Final against North Melbourne. They looked keen an bouyed for the task as they kicked off with a soccer friendly.

It was time to get back to the office before watching Mitchell Starc destroy the Poms in their first innings in between the Rookie Draft where Melbourne welcomed a tall midfielder in Riley Onley along with the long-awaited arrival of Kalani White.

It’s been a great day for Demonkind!

KEV'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Lovely morning down at the Paddock. A little windy but without gusts and a great temperature.

The vibe stays strong as they turn-up to the pre-Bright run.

Plenty of spectators to wish the Men well and to give the Women a welcome and supportive cheer on.

The new one, Xavier Taylor in number 19 looks the goods. My first thought was, he has “the right stuff”. Someone mentioned he was a mate of Lindsay. I can see he has been trained well, as Lindsay was. Those development coaches in the Coates Talent League do a great job. He is ready to impact straight away. He participated in the sims for a short period, he was a ball magnet (the coaches passed it to him a couple of times). Has great hands, handles the ball with confidence. Gets others into the game with connection, creates runs and sets plays up. I like him, if all goes well, could be selected in the first game.

Miochek also participated in a few sims. I like the movement he does. Beautiful timing that syncs with the ball carrier, shows a great change of direction (180°) and points where he wants it. Couldn't have made it easier for the hit up. He was paired with JVR as the two forward heads, with Miochek playing deeper at first and then swapping, as Miochek began leading up onto the wing. Great that he gets heavily involved with plays.

Kossie is raring to go. Space and time move, he dances and accelerates when he gets the ball. Buried a couple of others in tackles as well. Mentha has his mate with him.

AMW continues to gradually enter some drills.

Nathan Jones had some angry pills and was getting animated when some players didn't live up to standards.

Berry's doing well. Can tackle, reads the play, and he handles the ball well. I was quite surprised at his closing speed, which has a bit of explosive acceleration.

Having only one oval to train on proved a problem this morning. The women had some confusion and couldn't get on immediately. They waited and waited, then were told the men had stopped only to make it on to the Paddock and wait again, since the men hadn't finished the sims (who also didn't get to have the normal goal kicking drills). They then walked the boundary and to the far goals to start some warm-ups. Ten to fifteen minutes of disruption.

WAYNE WUSSELL'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

They are in the red flame kit.

Henderson jogging with a noticeable limp, right ankle perhaps.

Jiath moves impressively in end to end stuff. Just gave Culley a ‘don’t argue’ that put him on his back!

Lever seems to be over his foot problems.

Watching the 1 on 1 marking duels was interesting. Sparrow too strong for Sharp, Culley and Lever 50/50, Petty got the better of Kentfield, Jiath and Langford 50/50, AJ did well against taller Heath.

Well, not wanting to be unkind, but at his first hit out, Taylor looks like a boy amongst men! He could still be hung over from draft night!

Tholstrup sometimes holds on to the ball for too long. It is only pre-season training, but that was occasionally his downfall during the season. I would like to see him take the first option.

Standouts for me today are Windsor, Sparrow, Jiath & Kossie

Henderson more likely trying to run out a glute issue.

CLANIKO'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Ball in at the pocket ar one end then working it quickly to a couple key forwards at the other. Attacking team outnumbering defenders roughly 10 to 4. Very quick movement with the next play starting as soon as the deepest forward gets it, plenty of running in this one. The got players resting on the sidelines and swapping in every few plays but the seem absolutely buggered when they come off.

Split into 3 groups rotating through some drills. One is a handball drill with roughly even teams working it from one side of a box to another. One is a 1v1 marking drill. The other is a kicking/handballing working it from one pocket out to coach at halfway. Mix of talls and smalls in each group, no obvious forward/defender split.

Taylor sat out the handball drill while talking to a coach observing it, looked like getting some instruction but joined in the marking and kicking one fully.

Currently doing a drill where a group on each with try to work it up to a 2 v 1 in the forward 50. One side has mentha and mihocek vs CJ and the other has Campbell, Taylor and a bloke I don't recognise. CJ always defender but the other trio are rotating the defender bib. Taylor getting plenty of leading/positioning instruction from Campbell.

Groups are swapping which wing they're on after every play and the forwards/defenders have to sprint back to the goalpost before leading again. Seems like they've traded out endless laps for unnecessary running in their drills as the fitness component.

Taylor sat out of the match Sim. Was standing in one of the pockets chatting to whichever key forward was subbed out at the time. Kind of like having a rotation of people babysitting the work experience kid but good to see all the boys welcoming him. His preferred standing posture is both hands holding the collar of his training top, which he has reverted to anytime he's not been in a drill (not that this matters to anything but I found it amusing).

Henderson apparently had tight glutes and spent the whole training running laps. although his gait was a bit off he ran well, heard the trainer say he hit 7.5k before he finished up.

DEESPENCERS PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

CJ and Hendo doing laps.

AMW was in rehab, now in a small forward group doing snaps with Chandler, Fritsch, Mentha, Sharp

Mids doing one on one ground balls: Lindsay, Langford, Culley, sparrow, Steele, Kolt, Laurie, Windsor, Salem, Bowser

Talls are doing some one on one marking.

Moose and Gawn. Mihocek, May, Melk in a little veterans trio.

Petty, JVR, Jeffo, Kentfield, T Mc, Berry, AJ, Adams, Howes. Geez we’ve got some talls. That’s without even mentioning Disco and Lever.

Petty and JVR both look leaner and to be moving better than last year. Berry is perhaps a little shorter than his 194cm quote, moves well enough and kicking from an earlier drill seemed good for a guy who hasn’t played footy in 6 or more years?

Repeat sprints for half, repeat 200’s for others.

Sharp, Sparrow and Chandler dominating the 200’s.

Culley from Kolt the best of the sprint group. But like the way Jeffo, JVR, AJ and Kentfield powered on. Berry with a bit of a welcome to afl moment on these.

Match sim (minus the rehab guys, Berry, Mentha, Melk) is designed around white exiting 50, kicking it up to Nath Jones to spoil and then a quick counter from half back to score (hopefully).

In to the corridor then long and deep inside 50 (to advantage) seems the aim.

A couple of Sharp turnovers (before some better moments). Howes and Lindsay prominent.

Fartlek in small groups now.

JVR in with Langford and tasked with trying to keep up with Kolt, Culley and Windsor. Probably 30m off after a few laps.

Jeffo right on the back of AJ putting 15m on Howes.

Kentfield putting 40m on Lindsay and Adams.

Time will tell if these young key forwards are any good but looks like they’ve all put the work in.

KEV'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

The training squad continues to get bigger.

First look, there was Max Gawn and right beside him was Max Heath (he matched up well against our captain in the sims). Gawn pushed himself in the runs.

Steven May looking in good nik, abdominal muscles are tight. Spent quite a bit of time after drills, encouraging and instructing others on an individual level. Got burnt by Caleb Windsor, but who hasn't when trying to corral.

Jake Melksham had the biggest smile all through the session. I think he missed them all. Still a smart player, stepping, selling the candy, moving well.

CJ continues to rehab, plenty of running, the same with Jack Henderson.

AMW participated in some drills, first group action for quite some time, then went to light duties.

No Brody Mihocek.

Jack Steele has joined the main group.

They had them running again. It looked like they went through a few of the mental and physical barriers.

Harry Sharp has them all chasing him.

Drills had them in a keeping-off handball game with heavier tackling. Another was two kicking games. The object of one was to find the loose player with either a small hit up or getting it over the back of the defense (out numbered 9 to 5) within a 50 by 25m area. The other had them spread from outside the fifty and finish with a shot on goal. The defense did well if they could slow the offence down.

The talls had a one on one contest for the high mark. By the end they were marking, as earlier the contest regularly became halved.

Jed Adams is looking good.

Steven King has a soft spot for CJ, often talking to him. Tom Sparrow is in the same boat. King is an observer of the training. If they muck up the structure or get caught out from the plan, he will immediately pull them in and explain the situation (very proactive).

Rivers ran the sims today.

The sims were less frantic. Plenty of hugging the boundary, and then hitting the forwards on leads.

Most of the players played in the positions as expected.

Matt Jefferson and JvR doing well, leading directly at the kicker.

TMac looked good, moving well and making the right decisions down back.

Christian Salem who “slows time” when he has the ball, very clean and smooth.

Harvey Langford continues to get even better.

Koltyn Tholstrup notices all the players. The rest were drinking when Heath was left out there to finish set shot during a sim. He made his way to tap him when he goaled. Leadership written all over him.

Jake Bowey, Xavier Lindsay and Bailey Laurie are going about it well. All very humble personalities.

Harrison Petty will be a big improver, he is training well.

Ricky Mentha Junior needs Kossie with him. Appeared a little low in energy and couldn't get into “it”.

Kade Chandler looked good, fit, strong and boisterous.

AJ is going about it well, using his strength and is putting his learnings in place.

Still a few more to join in, they are looking professional and the buzz is on.

DEMON SPUR'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

My first trip to training in many a year, so I have no comparisons to make from previous years. The players look happy and engaged, I have notice not a lot of down time, they seem to move from one discipline to another with a minimal break. Got to meet Kev and Ghostie, (I’m a bit starstruck). Observations of the morning, Sharp, Laurie, Culley and Sparrow stood out for me in the match sims. Lindsay and Langford seem to do stuff with a minimum of fuss.

KEV'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

A cold morning with a gusty wind.

It was all about the run. They started in runners, doing sprints through the middle. Then gathered into the associated groups for the 2 km trails. The head group had Sparrow who led most of the way, though CJ hit the lead 250 meters out, I am unsure what the result was, did Tom have another kick, or did CJ set the new standards. Henderson in third and Chandler holding onto the group came a close fourth. I may be wrong with the placings! Oscar Berry worked hard at the back of the pack.

They then gathered with support, and the joy was obvious that that was over, especially during the next drills.

First time I'd seen them having an organised kick to kick with a partner in a while (we dropped that type last season). The mids and backs, in kick to kick, as the forwards are working on the routine of goal kicking.

Some drills of tackling and ball handling.

A bit of all in, tackling, moving through traffic, and snapping for goals starting just inside the 50 arc. About six to eight in defensive bibs. Using six balls, which go flying at goal after a bit of tick-a-tack, forward push and the whistle to have a go. I loved JVR work. He is looking good.

The sims had them going extremely fast. Again the offense outnumbered the defense. Coaches moved the ball so to get them transitioning fast. The right side of the paddock could use the ball for one, two or three actions then alternate to the left side team. Really direct footy, the emphasis was quick ball, no stationary all roll, go take it on, with the defensive corralling, tackling, intercepting, pressing. Plenty of angles with kicks to advantage of the lead.

CJ with beautiful runs, taking them on, though Windsor picked on him.

Heath can move well for a big. Has a reliable shot at goal as well. No longer shy, as the warmth is developing within the team.

Lever captaining the backs well, McDonald working with Howes to zone, but were often outnumbered.

Our runners looked primed.

Then into squad goal kicking in a structured way.

I am yet to see any of them on the boundary doing the miracle shots.

There will be big changes in our game style, if the few preseasons I've seen have any similarities to game day.

HERALD SUN REPORT ON THE DEMONS PRESEASON TRAINING SESSION

DEES TIME TRIAL

The Demons continued their pre-season campaign as some more senior players poured in ahead of schedule with Bayley Fritsch, Christian Salem and Jack Viney all in attendance.

The session kicked off with the dreaded 2km time trial. Coaches split the squad into groups starting at staggered locations around the ground. Viney watched on from the sidelines but was vocal in support of his teammates.

A lean looking Jacob Van-Rooyen continued his impressive preseason, leading home his group with a time of 6:48.

THE RUNNING CONTINUES

Only 15 minutes after the gut-busting time trial, coaches ramped up the intensity with nearly the full squad moving into fast paced ball movement work.

Blake Howes saw plenty of the Sherrin and impressed equally with his ball use, showing a level of class by foot.

Tom Sparrow also impressed with strong ball use and pressure, regularly forcing errors from teammates as the opposing teams took turns picking their way through the others defence across the length of Gosch’s Paddock.

Coaches ensured that the ball was constantly in motion, forcing high intensity running showing a glimpse of what the style under Steven King might look like.

SKILLS WORK

It wasn’t all running as the Dees look to alleviate a few problems that plagued their disappointing 2025.

The Dees under King are showing a clear intent that they are looking to do the basics better, with the whole squad working through a short session of kick to kick.

The forward group also peppered the nets behind the goalposts as they worked on their goalkicking, an area in need of significant improvement after an average year in front of goals.

DEESPICABLE ME'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Went down this morning which was my 3rd trip this pre-season.

It's obviously so very early yet without the senior men back but still I have seen enough to make a few judgements and observations.

Firstly on the running, there were 4 or 5 groups running at intervals and with some players getting passed and at one stage one group going in the opposite direction it was hard to keep up with but I was very impressed by Kolt who blitzed his group by almost 40 metres. This was a quality group with Culley running very strongly in second with Windsor and Langford 3rd and 4th going okay. Sparrow and CJ had a good battle in one of the other groups, AJ easily won his group powering away to beat JVR who did well to get up for 2nd with Lindsay bringing up the rear and another really good battle was Kentfield and AMW. AMW just sat on Kentfield and got away in the last 50 metres. He looks good even though he's not yet back in the main group. New recruit Berry got lapped by Kolt and ran last by a margin but completed the task and it was nice to see Kolt make his way across the oval to Berry to chat and encourage him. Kolt has real star quality about him, he is probably one of the players who can step into the vacuum left by Tracc and Oliver leaving. I know he's barely in the top 22 let alone the top 50 of the AFL but there is something about him and if his footy can rise to a break out season .... well anyway he has started his pre-season well.

Another who looks like he might rise to another level is Jai Culley. Has put himself in everything from contested mid work to impressive forward play and he, like Kolt is very fit. In one end to end drill he played forward, always found space and finished well, with a few classy dribblers ala Kate Hore (obviously without the pressure). He is a nice size and most often outmarks smaller opponents which makes him dangerous floating forward.

It was great to see Fritta and Salo turn up and contribute. They are super classy without match day pressure and laced out their passes with ease. At one stage they competed in a simple one on one marking, wrestling, scrapping drill with the ball being kicked in from 40 metres away and it was great to watch. Fritta got the best of Salo probably 3 of the 5 contests with finger tip marks or body positioning and Salo won the other 2 with equal class. TMAC wasn't beaten in any of his match ups. Jefferson won a couple of his with nice contested marks.

On TMac in the ground drill he was sighting, positioning himself and intercept marking quite a bit and with the emphasis on keeping it all flowing he would play on and 3 or 4 times in a row he was going to CJ who would just turn and sprint,....and invariably run into trouble. It's like he's playing British bulldog, he goes left, then right trying to find a way through. Frost ball is back, he's going to be a lot of fun.

Our kicking is poor, we were missing targets under no pressure, just running quickly, and goal kicking for a while there was horrendous. I think they were working at about 20%. Worst offender was JVR who was working at about 10%. Heath probably shouldn't be forward and is nearly marked by me for Casey, but AJ was good and kicked well. He is another giving himself every chance to get a gig.

Steele was in jumper 22 and he actually looks a bit like Howes with their thin tashes so I had to concentrate on him a bit coz he doesn't do anything flash, but he is a quiet achiever, just rolling around like he's in second gear, moving the ball on to the next bloke and rarely if ever missing a target. He will be good for us, no doubt.

Anyway I love this time of year, it renews my faith in the team and you know, the boys are going ok. Thanks

SCOOP JUNIOR'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

I went to training this morning. It felt like a mid-July game at the MCG. I was wearing a jumper and a jacket and was still cold!

Many players not there - May, Salem, Viney, Turner, Gawn, Langdon, Laurie, Melksham, McAdam, Rivers, McDonald, Campbell, Fritsch, Pickett

All others were training with the exception of Mihocek and AMW who did running on the side. Henderson also did a bit of running but joined in some drills.

Training wasn't super intense, unlike what we heard Monday was like. It was hard to keep a track of drills as they split into two groups (of approximately 12 players each) and changed drills fairly often. From what I could see, early on there was a typical handball game in a large area (no heavy tackling), while the other group did a drill of getting the ball to a player on the run from about 30m out to have a shot at goal. They then did a drill where the coach would roll the ball out at half back, a player would pick it up under pressure and they would try to move the ball to the middle of the ground with handball against a defending team.

After that there was a drill with some kicking involved, mostly short kicks to players in space, which was then followed by a handball game in a very confined space where the team in possession had to find a teammate free to give the ball to (there was no tackling but the defending side defended 1v1 and just placed minor pressure on the attacking team). Then finally they went into a 3/4 ground ball movement drill which seemed to focus on moving the ball with speed out of the backline. The noticeable thing here was that the players ran in waves, with all defenders running together to receive the overlap handball. It looked like pretty aggressive run out of the backline.

There was other drills too, such as one where players went out in threes to collect a ground ball and handballed to each other and returned the ball back. The focus from King was to receive the ball facing the right way so that the receiver would then be in a better position to assess the next option.

Nothing too much to report given it wasn't a highly intense session, but I thought some of Chandler's bullet passes were really impressive (when skills are usually rusty at this time of the year) and Windsor seemed to be used a fair bit as that linkman in the 3/4 ground ball movement drill. CJ looked good bouncing out of the backline with his athleticism on show, however that is his strength - the test for him will be ball use under pressure. Lindsay and Langdon both look like they've put on upper body size.

They also did 2 or 3 laps (I think this was the only running without the footy) and Sharp was the standout runner (no surprise) and Sparrow was very good too and Kolt put in a really good effort. They ran in groups, with the big blokes mostly in one group. Berry looked to be the big struggler here, way out the back of the big blokes group. I don't read too much into these things - running is just one aspect of the game.

Only about 24 players trained and it was mostly a pretty young group out there.

WAYNE WUSSELL'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Had the good fortune to have a chat with Kingy today. He wandered over to the boundary line when he finished putting out the cones for the next activity. My first impressions were that he was personable, straightforward and very tall. He said that training wouldn’t be too intensive in the first few sessions, as the full list joined the group. I mentioned that it was good to see Brodie and AMW progressing so well. He said Brodie was busting to join the main group and it was a battle to hold AMW back until Christmas. I asked him what his first impressions of the training group were. He said he was impressed with the overall fitness. He singled out the Roo, saying he had lost kilos but gained strength. We both agreed that ‘the current # 4’ (Harvey) was set to take the next step. He said that Jai Culley was in the best three on the track on Monday. A few other enthusiastic observers joined in the conversation. He also agreed that Windsor was a standout in the first session. One notable comment he made was about putting up the ‘team’ for round 1 for the players... there were no names on the list!

Training today was more laid-back than Monday. More about patterns for quick transfer than intense pressure on the ball-carrier. They did do a two-lap time trial. Sharpie was once again the standout in his group, with Tholstrup not too far behind. I noticed that Berry was content to bring up the rear, as he manages his transfer to the elite level.

SLARTIBARTFAST'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

35 minutes ago, Scoop Junior said:

From what I could see, early on there was a typical handball game in a large area (no heavy tackling),

This drill involved blocking and protecting the tackling players from the ball carrier. It was too complicated for me to fully understand but it wasn't just a keepings off and handballing for goal.

The session was a lot less intense than Monday and there was much more running. AMW won't be in full training until after Christmas as they nurse him along with his ACL program but he is as fit as a fiddle. Brodie was doing much more high speed running today and more lateral movement stuff. Hendo is recovering from a groin complaint and is on limited lateral movement drills. AJ also spent a little time out of main training but CJ trained much more with the group than he did on Monday.

PHOTOS FROM TRAINING COURTESY OF @Six6Six

TRAINING GALLERY: Wednesday 12th November 2025

DEMONLAND'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

It’s a beautiful morning for some preseason training.

PLAYERS PRESENT:

Kozzy (first session of the season), Salem (first session of the season), Lindsay (No #5 today), Chandler, Fritsch (first session of the season), Bowey, Howes, Johnson, TMac, Adams, Kentfield, JVR, Windsor, Langford (#4), AMW, Heath, Sparrow, Berry, Jefferson, Culley (No #13 today), Henderson, Kolt & Mentha Jr

PLAYERS MISSING:

Max, Lever, May, Melksham, Langdon, Turner, Mihocek, CJ, Campbell, Steele, Viney, Laurie, McAdam, Rivers, Sharp, Petty

Players going through some warm up short sprints

REHAB:

AMW & Henderson

Hand balling drill running fast in waves of 3 spread out and hand balling to the guy on either side ahead of him running towards goal.

Full length ground Match SIM drill

Some nice skills on show.

And just as I say that a couple of howlers. Got to love the preseason. Greatest time of the year. 

Henderson has joined the Match SIM drill so AMW the only rehabber. Jogging laps. 

Lots of very quick ball movement. 

Kozzy ELECTRIC wearing the pink vest as the swingman playing for both teams in the middle. Skills sublime. 

Interestingly Fritsch playing more on the wing/half back as a link player on the wing utilizing his kicking skills. 

Could just be for lack of numbers and personnel as the two key (only) forwards at either end are JVR/Jefferson & Kentfield/Heath. 

Split into 3 different groups for drills and rotating the groups through each one  

1. Jared Rivers kicking the ball high up to a one on one contest. Some good matchups. TMAC/JVR, TMac/Heath, Lindsay/Langford.

2. Keepings off handball drill with 5 on 2. 

3. One on one tackling drill. 

Windsor doing some work away from the 3 groups with a trainer testing out something with his lateral movement. Doesn’t look too concerned. 

Windsor rejoined one of the groups but a few minutes later returned to the same trainer on the boundary with what looks like some complaint with the legs/foot/ankle.

Physio twisting Windsor foot to test out the ligaments in the ankle.

Windsor back with the main group. Watch this space. 

5 (red) on 5 (yellow) handball keeping’s off drill with ferocious tackling with 3 pink vest players in the mix one at either end of the drill area and one in the middle playing both sides. 

Jonesy and Chaplin taking control of this drill while King watches on.

Henderson and Johnson running laps together. As are Mentha Jnr and Oscar Berry. 

Almost end to end (from half back) drill Red vs Blue bibs.

When red are attacking the order of the day is very quick ball movement with lots of forward hand balling to players running.

When Blues bibs have it’s a lot slower and more controlled movement of the ball back to the other end.

Windsor being used as the link man at half back. Kolt substituting with him when Windsor resting.

Ending the session with sprints up and down the Centre Square.

That’s a wrap on the first week of Preseason Training for the 2026 Season.

We’ll be back next week.

📆  Monday, November 17
⏰ 10:00am - 11:30am
📍 Gosch's Paddock
🏃‍♂️ Session type: Training

BLWNBA'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Pickett’s ball movement is sublime, some very fancy footwork.

Tholstrup definitely looks leaner; agree with previous observations.

Chaplin: “as soon as the ball comes back (into the forward line) we move with speed! Move with intensity.”

Current exercise is a full ball movement exercise.

Fritsch just slotted a pearler from the boundary.

Jefferson with a lovely pass to JVR who was sprinting at full pace. JVR looked far quicker to an I’ve previously noticed, though I doubt the offseason has made any difference.

Chandler’s kicking has stood out for me, some lovely passes that have hit targets in the f50.

Constant encouragement from the line staff to “get to the cones”.

McDonald being used as a linking player outside of the D50 along the win. Being told to “get forward”.

JVR looks remarkably more confident marking. Taking quite a few nice marks at full stretch.

Encouragement, leadership and voice from XL is astounding for such a young player.

JVR continues to impress with his pace, led most laps comfortably for his running group.

Heath already looks fully integrated and one of the boys already.

Langford wearing #4; also looks slimmer than last season.

TOM DYSON'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Home from Goschs and loved the buzz around the group, couple of quick observations from me;

Before training had really gotten underway, Kingy looked like he had spoken to just about every assistant coach in a meaningful way. Don't want to overanalyse but it really does seem he is taking a collaborative approach at least initially which is nice to see.

There seemed to be an emphasis today on disposal under pressure and disposal with a general intent of speed on the ball. The whole ground match sim looked to prioritise fast ball movement through the corridor or quick switches from wing to wing and the quality of disposal throughout this was i thought pretty good.

Windsor looked very good in the guts and he looked even better running and carrying with pace on the ball.

Kozzy did what Kozzy does, ultra impressive as per usual.

You would have all seen the sparrow run down tackle on the socials but that really was chef's kiss, and given how quick leb was moving today it was an extra impressive effort.

Oscar Berry might be a surprise packet next year, his footy iq in tight surprised and he had a great defensive stop in the handball keepings off drill. It was a very basketball esque rejection and the thud echoed around the whole ground. Definitely a watch and see how he goes for Casey early.

I echo what has been posted throughout the week about kolt. He looked fast and explosive and he had an air of focus and slightly less jocularity then in previous years. I really hope this both continues and translates into on field form.

Rooey looked more adept aerially and seemed to be flying for marks more confidently.

Monnez was doing his runs along the boundary but was looking longingly at the main group like he badly wanted to get stuck in to the match sim. Backing him in to lock down a spot in the backline next year and fingers are well and truly crossed no more injury trouble.

I also feel the need to reiterate that Max Heath is a behemoth of a man!

Was a beautiful morning to watch the lads and it's got me feeling very excited for whats to come!

DEMONLAND'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

The players start to meander from the Bubble Dome towards Gosch's paddock and there are some familiar faces in different guernsey numbers.

Harvey Langford is wearing Judd McVee's number 4. Xavier Lindsay has donned the number 5 made famous by the departed Christian Petracca whilst Jai Culley is wearing the number 13 previously worn by 4 time Bluey medalist Clayton Oliver.

Whether or not these are permanent changes or just random is yet to be seen and the case for it being random is highlighted by Bailey Laurie wearing the absent Christian Salem's number 3 and new Demon Brody Mihocek wearing Captain Max Gawn's number 11.

Recent acquisition Changkuoth Jiath was wearing number 14 whilst ex-Saint Captain Jack Steele donned the number 46. Former Saint ruckman Max Heath's guernsey did not have any number on the back.

PLAYERS IN ATTENDANCE:

Adams, AMW, Oscar Berry (38), Campbell, Chandler, Culley (13), Heath (no number), Henderson, Howes, Jiath (14), Jefferson, Johnson, JVR, Kentfield, Kolt, Langford (4), Laurie (3), Lever, Lindsay (5), Mentha, Mihocek, Petty, Sharp, Sparrow, Steele, TMac, Windsor.

PLAYERS MISSING:

Bowey, Fritsch, Gawn, Langdon, May, McAdam, Melksham, Pickett, Rivers, Salem, Turner (?), Viney.

COACHING STAFF IN ATTENDANCE:

Steven King (Coach), Troy Chaplin, Jared Rivers, Rory Atkins, Taylor Whitford, Nathan Jones.

REHAB (at various times - some of these players participated in some of the main session except for the contact stuff)

Mihocek (foot/toe), Jiath (unspecified soft tissue), AMW (recovering from ACL - participated in some of the main session and will resume full training in after the Christmas break or in February), Henderson (ran laps during contact and match SIM), Johnson (ran laps during contact and match SIM).

Both TMac and Lever who are not required at preseason training were in attendance and participated in the whole session. Importantly Lever appeared to be fit and over the injuries that plagued his 2025 campaign.

Players warming up in different groups. Some kick to kick, some having shots at goal, some handballing into the bouncy net.

Steele, Jiath and Mihocek kicking to each other in a triangle.

Lever and Steele doing some work with Selwyn Griffiths with the stretchy band. Band around both of them while one of them walks backwards trying to pull the other one along with them.

Mihocek doing some rehab work on the boundary.

First 4 set shots I have seen have all gone through the middle. This is a new dawn. 😜

Lindsay and Langford really have beautiful silky kicking skills.

Of the new boys Steele, Jiath and Heath are participating in the main session. Mihocek doing rehab. Seems to be the only player at the moment in rehab.

All players doing the elastic band exercise I described earlier.

So far AMW is participating fully in training.

Max Heath is huge. Head taller than Jvr.

They did not sprint to the water bottles for their break as was a fixture at last year's preseason training sessions.

Mihocek, Steele & Jiath now training away from the main group doing some agility work with one of the high performance staff.

AMW has joined Mihocek and Jiath away from the main group.

Checkers running quarter laps. Doesn’t appear to be too hampered by anything. Understand that he has a foot/toe complaint but appears to be moving well. I heard someone say that he still might be a while away from returning to full training but I have no idea whether that means after Christmas or into the new season.

Jiath jogging laps. Looks super fit.

Steele has joined the main group for most of the session now.

Johnson, Henderson and Steele jogging laps rather than participating in the handball/tackling drill.

Sparrow laid a heavy tackle on Langford and eventually took him down but came off 2nd best. 

There is a big difference between this handball/keepings off drill from previous years. The drill used to be 5 on 5 keeps off with light tackling. This is the whole group in close quarters doing keeping’s off with AFL level tackling ferocity. 

I will leave it to the others to give some more indepth observations.

DITCHA'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

I am attended most of the training session today. I had the great pleasure of talking to my great friend the wonderful Ghostwriter. I also met Kev. I was most impressed with how fit everyone looks. Also great see all sessions been performed at great pressure. Also great to see no soccer balls at training as they are playing AFL and not soccer. Also while at training my 2026 membership pack was delivered.

HARVEY WALLBANGER'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Stephen King had mentioned that 15 of the Year 1 to 4's were required today:

They were Windsor, Tholstrup, Langford, Lindsay, Jefferson, Howes, Adams, Sharp, Mentha, Johnson, Henderson, Kentfield, Moniz-Wakefield, Culley and Berry - all present.

The other 12 were JVR, Lever, Laurie, TMac, Campbell, Sparrow, Petty, Chandler, Steele, Heath, Minocek and CJ.

Total present 27 - absentees were May, Salem, Viney, Turner, Gawn, Langdon, Bowey, Melksham, McAdam, Rivers, Fritsch and Pickett.

Total 39 on the list with the draft to come.

MIhocek will be a while with his toe - so will Moniz after the Befbruary ACL, etc... Lots of running for Minocek, Moniz, Steele, CJ, Henderson and AJ and they did not take part in the match sim work.

Nice to see Andy, Fritta and Turner, Slarti, Tim, Redleg, Kev and of course Ghosty present.

Chaplin took the match sim. King seemed hands-off. Spotted Rivers, Atkins and Whitford - and Selwyn of course. Did not see Jonesy today - nor Scarlett?

Rory Atkins was there. Also I believe Taylor Whitford who will also take on a developmental role. Nathan Jones also. Only Scarlett I didn't spot (booked for just one day per week) - apparently King is still working on Hawkins and that will be a specialist role - i.e. maybe once a fortnight...

FRITTA AND TURNER'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Weather cool, overcast.

When i arrived only TC, Ghosty and some trainers were there. Ghosty gave the players her traditional welcome.

I reckon TMc would turn out to train in a blizzard.

Rehabers were CJ, AMW and Brodie M, though CJ and AMW did some ot the other team drills as well.

Brodie is old/mature enough to exchange some pleasantries with the track watchers.

Lever was moving freely.

As mentionned they trained with big elastic bands, one pulling the other. I tried that once, didnt end well.

Go Dees.

WAYNE WUSSELL'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

Impressions from first session.

Jai Culley is the real deal

Jefferson was surprisingly agile and active in the in-close handball comp

Roo looked full of confidence

Lever moved freely

Langford even better than before

Windsor cut it up in running half back role… disposal as before

Petty looked poised

Berry confident in traffic

KEV'S PRESEASON TRAINING OBSERVATIONS

First I see is Jared Rivers, working with Jefferson and McDonald. During the session he was quiet and observant.

King has a strong presence, talks to them and regularly gives them instructions during drills and sims. Chaplin led the session, Jones taking some close quarter competitive drills. A few new others, trainers and tech staff. Taylor (drafter) walking around the paddock with Richardson (head of something), and at times they are with Guerra (CEO).

They started with goal kicking and a few doing kick to kick, before they got down to the structured stuff.

The emphasis was competitive footy, with some contact and plenty of intensity. They did a few drills that were mainly warm-ups, though predominantly did sims. They didn’t perform handball games or soccer. Finished with goal kicking. Not one of them did the snaps and trick shots from the boundary.

Mihocek looks big, in runners and doing a variety of endurance runs.

AMW runs hard, looks happy and is pushing himself, in Light duties.

Steel quietly goes about it.

Heath is a JVR double though bigger, appearing a little lost at times.

Berry quiet, a little fumbly.

Jiath has light duties, as is Johnson and Henderson (they did some of the sims).

Langford is looking taller.

Windsor missed a few kicks, though was in everything, getting to sequential tackles.

I liked what Howes was doing, lots of pressure.

The Sparrow looked powerful.

Mentha has bulked up around the hips.

Henderson is all muscle.

Culley ready to go.

General feel was one of getting down to business, didn’t appear to be much bonding amongst them.

Weather was good for a first up, overcast, cool and no wind.