Summary:
* Looking forward to the real stuff finally starting.
* Jacko said it's his first full preseason in 2 years. Past two preseasons he had hammy tendonitis and only did 30% of preseason and felt that lack of preparation as the seasons went along.
* The team is ready and expecting to do well this year. We can't use inexperience as an excuse anymore and nor do we want to. Our 1-10 game players have now played 50; the older guys have now played 100 which we haven't had for while.
* We knew we weren't playing anywhere near our best over the preseason but we found ways to win. Last year we played some good footy but couldn't get over the line. The good sides know how to win back the momentum. Last year we let ourselves down by letting sides gain the momentum for 10 minute patches and slamming 5 goals on in quick time.
* Petterd has had a good preseason. These mature guys were brought in because they are ready to go.
* Vlastuin can impact straight away. Solid character; askes questions rather than coming in thinking he's good; already luckily got the physical attributes; will be around Tigerland for a long time. The other young guys now have time to develop which is the way you want it.
* Internally it's more about supporting Dusty; keeping him focussed. He's had a really good preseason; fittest he's ever been; mopping up in the practice games. He's been inconsistent in past; he's still young and it's tiring being a inside mid over a long season. At 18 guys don't have the mental maturity. You compare it to in the States where guys start when they are 22-23.
* Jacko reckons the preseason is too long. You start in early November, train 6 days a week and then play 6 praccy matches before the season even starts. IHO all you need is two structured preseason game and then start the season early.
