AFL action returns this week as the first wave of pre-season matches - including an Indigenous All Stars clash - prepare to offer some insight into what fans can expect for the year ahead.
A total of 18 games - made up of differing practice sessions and Community Series fixtures - will run from February 15 to March 2, taking us to just four days out from the home and away season's opener.
To conclude another summer of expectations, training notes, selection calls and coaching strategies, the coming weeks will hope to uncover some positives for each club.
Here we assess and name what fans from each faithful will be hoping to see from their AFL team this pre-season.
12. North Melbourne
Key position players standing out
2024 saw an array of Roos swung to either end of the field as Alastair Clarkson experimented with his key position options.
Charlie Comben's move to defence looked to be a masterstroke, but there's somehow some chance he could be found in the forward line once again.
Aidan Corr and Kallan Dawson look set for defensive roles, but, like Comben, there's less certainty surrounding Toby Pink, Wil Dawson and Griffin Logue.
With Jack Darling arriving to aid Nick Larkey, it looks like competition for defensive spots will be heavily contested.
Pre-Season Opponents:Â Melbourne, West Coast
