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.
15. St Kilda
A backline ready to compete
The Saints are set to enter the new season undermanned down back, having lost Dougal Howard to a dislocated shoulder while draftee Alix Tauru and backman Hunter Clark man the casualty ward also.
The string of setbacks follows the club's loss of Josh Battle over the off-season, meaning Ross Lyon could be left to rely on Callum Wilkie as a key position matchup.
Who he partners is another concern, with Zaine Cordy and uncapped stopers Isaac Keeler and James Barrat potentially the only other options come selection.
Saints fans will hope the needed answer arises in the final weeks of the pre-season as Lyon's men face flag contenders in Carlton and Port Adelaide.
Pre-Season Opponents:Â Carlton, Port Adelaide
