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.
8. Gold Coast
Support for Ben King
The Suns were one of, if not the busiest clubs over the off-season from a player movement standpoint, adding Dan Rioli, John Noble and Elliott Himelberg while bidding farewell to Jack Lukosius and Rory Atkins.
The departure of Lukosius has opened a glaring hole in Damien Hardwick's front third, with mystery surrounding who will be Ben King's best support this season.
Second-year forward Jed Walter might not be ready to take on the responsibility of that degree just yet, leaving Himmelberg or Jy Farrar as the third option to bring some needed experience.
Young ruckman Ethan Read could slot into an attacking role alongside fellow Academy graduate Walter, while star swingman Mac Andrew might find himself forward again.
Upcoming clashes against the Lions, Magpies and Swans will hopefully paint a clear picture of what we can expect from the Suns' front third.
Pre-Season Opponents:Â Brisbane/Collingwood, Sydney
