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.
18. Western Bulldogs
The players who will fill early-season holes
Pressure could quickly mount on Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge if his club's injury woes continue, leading to a struggling start to the new season.
The Dogs have already lost Liam Jones, Adam Treloar, Jason Johannisen and Anthony Scott to long-term setbacks, while Jamarra Ugle-Hagan's playing chances are uncertain.
Add in injury concerns for Tim English, and the Dogs could arrive at Round 1 significantly undermanned.
Hopefully their matchups against the Bombers and Hawks can see reinforcements come to the fore and offer some assurance things won't be too ugly too quickly.
Pre-Season Opponents:Â Essendon, Hawthorn
