Dimma in The Age:Injuries to key personnel and a game plan that rivals knew all too well conspired against the Tigers last season. That they had enjoyed four consecutive deep finals runs, reaping three flags, meant they were also physically and mentally tired.
Hardwick said the club had worked on mentally refreshing the players.
“Expectations are obviously high because, obviously, it was a down year last year. But we feel that we have covered that space really well, mental space, we have done a fair bit of work on that over the course of the summer as well,” he said.
“I think the competition has become much more even over the course of every year. And that’s a great thing about our game, any given Sunday any side can win. So, it’s going to be an exciting year – there are going to be a lot of sides putting their hand up to win it. Hopefully, we are one of those sides.”
The Tigers have made changes. David Astbury and Bachar Houli have retired, there is young talent emerging, including key defender Josh Gibcus, while Trent Cotchin has handed the captaincy to Dylan Grimes and Toby Nankervis.
This could be the last premiership run for Cotchin and fellow veteran Jack Riewoldt, the latter having told The Age his premiership teammates were conscious of their legacy and leaving the team in a good spot.
Hardwick said the Tigers, tipped by many to return to the top four, were ready for what awaits.
“We are reasonably confident. I think the one thing about our industry, our game, Melbourne, obviously, won it last year, [is] well, why not us? We are one of those sides that have had a great pre-season, but until that first ball is bounced, you are never quite sure.
“But we have strength in leadership at our footy club, we are really bullish about the way we will go this year. We are very excited to start and ready to go.”
Source: The Age
