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.
4. Collingwood
The next wave of Magpies knocking on the door
Magpies midfielder Fin Macrae has been the poster boy of pre-season hype the last couple of years, putting up strong performances in the lead-up to the home and away season only to fall out of favour by April.
Macrae will be among a contingent of Collingwood players looking to break into Craig McRae's side for their Opening Round clash against GWS, with fellow onballer Ed Allan and 2023 draftees Harry DeMattia and Tew Jiath also wanting to find some selection success.
Their endeavours must include strong outings against the Suns, Lions and Tigers over the coming weeks, with midfield depth and defensive run again being an area to assess at the AIA Centre.
Pre-Season Opponents: Gold Coast/Brisbane, Richmond
