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.
7. Geelong
A fit and firing Bailey SmithÂ
Another headline recruit from the 2024 trade period, Smith arrived at Kardinia Park after a year out of action due to an ACL injury.
Smith could be the Cats' new main man in the middle, or at least partner reigning Carji Greeves Medal winner Max Holmes in a threatening two-man tandem, and expectations will be high.
As for the pre-season, those expectations might be tapered a touch as Smith prepares for his first outing in the hoops, but Cats fans will be keen to see Smith firing on all cylinders after a near-full pre-season.
Pre-Season Opponents:Â Hawthorn, Essendon
