AFL track watch 2022. Who’s flying at your club in the pre-season

Pre-season track watch is back as clubs turn their attention to round one in two months time. See the latest whispers and observations from the Pies January hitout.

Collingwood has hit the training track post Christmas, putting the players through their paces on a warm, humid day at Olympic Park.

With COVID-19 causing havoc among the competition’s men’s and women’s programs it looked a healthy turnout for the black and white brigade. The Pies will be looking to put the drama of last year behind them as they embark on their 2022 season under new coach Craig McRae.

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There was plenty to see out on the track, from the experienced heads guiding the youthful players, to those who are on modified programs. Here are five observations from Collingwood’s return to the track.

HOSPITAL WARD

There were some big name players missing from the Pies match simulation drill. Captain Scott Pendlebury, who suffered a leg fracture in 2021, is back at training but on a slightly varied training program, the club says. High-flyer Jeremy Howe was limited to riding the exercise bike, whilst Brody Mihocek and Trey Ruscoe also sat out the match practice.

The Pies have been put through their paces in tough conditions. Picture: Getty Images

YOUNGSTERS CATCH THE EYE

There has been so much hype surrounding Nick Daicos, and with good reason. The midfielder’s tackling intensity and clean hands were on show, with his work ethic a stand out amongst the group. Trent Bianco, who played 12 matches last season, looks set to build on his debut campaign and was regularly used in possession chains during match simulation. The Pies will be hoping both players become long-term superstars for the club.

Nick Daicos and Patrick Lipinski have been impressive. Getty Images

TIME FOR A REVAMP?

Pendlebury. Sidebottom. Swan. Beams. These are the names Pies fans have become accustomed to hearing, but the Pies look set to unveil a youthful, new look midfield in 2022. Vice-captain and 2020 Copeland Medallist Taylor Adams looks set to be lead the charge, alongside former Bulldog Patrick Lipinski and youngster Trent Bianco. Lipinski requested a trade to the Pies in search for greater opportunities, whilst Bianco is a highly regarded leader, having captained the Oakleigh Chargers to the flag in the NAB League back in 2019. The trio stayed out on the track longer than the rest of the playing group, working on their stoppage craft alongside midfield coach Scott Selwood. Is this a glimpse into the new centre-bounce structure for the Pies in 2022?

FAN FAVOURITE STEPPING UP

Jamie Elliott has been a lively small forward throughout his career, but it wasn’t his goal kicking or marking ability that was most impressive during Friday’s hitout. Elliott was one of the most vocal players out on the track and appeared to take on a leadership position in the forwardline, encouraging and directing the likes of Ollie Henry and Will Kelly.

Jamie Elliott has been a stand-out in training. Picture: Getty Images

FLY’S CREW SET TO SHINE

Craig McRae has been given the coaching reins for season 2022 after successful stints at Richmond and Hawthorn as an assistant coach. He’s assembled a quality set of staff to help him, including former Carlton coach Brendon Bolton and Brisbane champion Justin Leppitsch. Despite last year’s off field drama, the Pies have given McRae a solid support staff who will look to get everything out of the playing group.