THE START of the 2024 Toyota AFL Premiership Season is just over a month away.
Clubs are getting back into the swing of things and getting ready for another exciting campaign.
Some teams have had more peaceful off-seasons than others, with the main topics of conversation being injuries, new contracts, and possible positional changes.
So here’s what’s been going on at your club this summer, in case you missed it.
Adelaide crows
As the Crows intensified their training regimen during the summer, certain players faced setbacks. Former captain Rory Sloane underwent surgery for a detached retina, and Wayne Milera, the dynamic defender, found himself sidelined due to another hamstring injury. Daniel Curtin, a highly regarded draft pick, experienced a period away from the main training group due to a knee issue, but he has since returned and is anticipated to compete for an early debut, given his otherwise impressive performance during the summer.
In a strategic move in early January, the Crows secured the signing of Karl Gallagher, an athletic Irishman, as a Category B rookie. The 21-year-old left a positive impression during his training stint. Noteworthy contract extensions were secured for promising young talents Luke Pedlar and wingman Mitch Hinge, both committed to the club until the end of 2026. The commitment streak extended to AFLW coach Matthew Clarke and captain Chelsea Randall.
Despite the significant offseason focus on the club’s proposed relocation to Thebarton, coach Matthew Nicks found himself awaiting a contract extension, as he geared up to enter the final year of his existing deal. – Nathan Schmook.
Brisbane
Since resuming activities in early December, the Lions have maintained their standard operations. Both Will Ashcroft and Tom Doedee are making positive strides in their recovery from knee reconstructions, with anticipated returns midway and early into the upcoming season, respectively. Lachie Neale, who underwent offseason groin surgery, has resumed vigorous running and remains on schedule for participation in the preseason. Keidean Coleman, a standout performer in the finals, secured a contract extension until the conclusion of 2027. Adding variety to their preseason preparations, the club incorporated a four-day camp on the Sunshine Coast. – Michael Whiting.
Carlton
The Blues’ pre-season has encountered setbacks with two notable injuries, particularly Jack Silvagni’s ACL rupture, sidelining the forward for the entirety of the 2024 season. Key defender and reigning best-and-fairest winner Jacob Weitering also suffered a significant calf injury in mid-January, raising concerns about his availability at the commencement of the season. Despite Irish recruit Matt Duffy being ruled out for the year due to an ACL injury, plans are in place for his return to Australia in mid-2024, with an official club inclusion expected next year.
Excitement is brewing among Carlton fans with the highly anticipated return of Zac Williams, who missed the entire 2023 season due to an ACL injury. Meanwhile, there is ongoing discussion about Luke Sayers seeking an extension to prolong his tenure as Blues president until the conclusion of 2025. The upcoming pre-season fixtures for the Blues are scheduled at Ikon Park, where they will face Geelong on February 22 and Melbourne on February 28. – Dejan Kalinic.
Collingwood
In an unfortunate turn of events, key forward Dan McStay suffered a left ACL rupture during December training, leading to the expectation that he will be sidelined for the entire 2024 season. With three available list spots, the Pies are considering several prospects, including Lachie Sullivan (Footscray), Campbell Hustwaite, Josh Eyre (Collingwood VFL), Brynn Teakle (Port Adelaide), Jack Bytel (St Kilda), and Sam Sofronidis (Collegians, VAFA).
During his absence, Coach Craig McRae undertook a leadership course at Harvard University in the United States, with Hayden Skipworth assuming coaching responsibilities. Football boss Graham Wright is on a sabbatical and is set to return in September. Nathan Murphy received clearance from a concussion medical panel to resume playing, while Brayden Maynard has been gradually recovering after a shoulder reconstruction.
The Pies made significant moves, appointing Sam Wright as their AFLW coach, and securing a five-year deal with Isaac Quaynor. – Sarah Black.
Following a turbulent off-season leading into 2023, the Bombers have adopted a more serene and settled approach heading into 2024. Despite a couple of injury concerns, key ruckman Sam Draper, a crucial figure for the team, is nearing a return to full training after dealing with a groin issue. Dylan Shiel is in the process of recovery from foot and knee surgeries, potentially impacting the commencement of his season. Unfortunately, young forward Jaiden Hunter is ruled out for the campaign due to an ACL rupture. On a positive note, emerging talents Elijah Tsatas, Zach Reid, and Nate Caddy have demonstrated promising performances in the pre-season, providing a boost for the Bombers.
In preparation for the upcoming season, Essendon has scheduled a match simulation against St Kilda on February 23, followed by a fixture against Geelong in the Community Series a week later. – Dejan Kalinic.
Freemantle
The most significant development for Fremantle this summer was the contract extension of ruckman Sean Darcy until the conclusion of 2030. The focus now revolves around Darcy’s recovery from ankle surgery, with the hope that the primary big man can be fit for the opening round. Darcy participated in match simulations with managed minutes towards the end of January, marking a positive progression. Defensive signings included Brandon Walker (extended until 2027) and Hugh Davies (extended until 2026). Additionally, the Dockers formalized their leadership group, with captain Alex Pearce receiving continued support from co vice-captains Andrew Brayshaw and Caleb Serong.
The team explored talent acquisition during the Supplemental Selection Period, with Sam van Rooyen (Claremont), Patrick Voss (Essendon), Max Beattie (Woodville-West Torrens), and Daniel McKenzie (St. Kilda) serving as train-on players as Fremantle contemplates filling two vacant list spots. Notably, Voss has stood out in match simulations. On the injury front, tall defender Brennan Cox is dealing with a stress reaction in his fibula, presenting the primary concern. Meanwhile, minor setbacks were experienced by Luke Ryan (ankle) and Sam Switkowski (hamstring). – Nathan Schmook.
Geelong
Jack Henry and Cam Guthrie, both recovering from foot injuries following surgeries last year, are progressing in their return to full fitness. Gary Rohan experienced a slower start to the pre-season due to an ankle operation. Patrick Dangerfield and Tom Stewart are set to resume their roles as captain and vice-captain, with Stewart committing to a three-year contract extension. The Cats are contemplating the possibility of transitioning star interceptor Stewart into a midfield role for the 2024 season. In the aftermath of an off-season reorganization, Nigel Lappin has assumed leadership of the Cats’ development program, while development coach Daisy Pearce departed for the head AFLW role at West Coast. – Sarah Black.
Goal Coast Suns
The focus at Suns training has largely been on new coach Damien Hardwick, who is working to expedite the implementation of his run-and-gun gameplan for the upcoming season. Notable additions to the coaching group include Alex Rance in the role of leadership consultant, Shaun Grigg overseeing the midfield, and Richard Douglas along with Nick Malceski handling development. Jed Walter, the No.3 draft pick, underwent surgery for a fractured collarbone and is expected to make a return early in the season.
Jake Rogers has resumed full training after recovering from a stress fracture in the back. Noteworthy performances in match simulations were observed from Bailey Humphrey and Sam Flanders during the week. Among the younger Suns, Matt Rowell, Jack Lukosius, Ben King, and co-captain Touk Miller took a break to support the Brisbane Heat, contributing to the team’s victory in cricket’s Big Bash League at Heritage Bank Stadium. – Michael Whiting.
Gws Giants
Toby Bedford had an impressive start to the pre-season by winning his second consecutive 2k time trial since joining the Giants a year ago. However, the significant Christmas gift for the club came just before the break when Aaron Cadman, the No.1 pick from the 2022 AFL Draft, extended his contract until the end of 2026. The 195cm forward, who displayed glimpses of his substantial potential in 12 games last season, opted to stay with the Giants despite competing interest from other clubs. A notable addition to the team is three-time premiership forward Cam Mooney, who has been appointed to an advisory role to provide specialized coaching to the Giants’ key-position players. The club recently concluded a three-day camp in the Blue Mountains. – Michael Whiting.
Hawthorn
The Hawks, under the leadership of Sam Mitchell in his third coaching season, are progressing well. However, a notable concern during the pre-season, which involved a three-day camp in Torquay, is the foot fracture suffered by the reigning best-and-fairest winner, Will Day, early in the new year. The exact timeframe for his return remains uncertain, with a re-evaluation scheduled in the coming weeks. On a positive note, exciting defender Changkuoth Jiath, who hadn’t played since round nine last season, spent five days at a sports medicine clinic in Doha in early January, thoroughly assessing his entire program, including biomechanics. Jiath is now fully engaged and performing well in training. Additionally, defender James Blanck has extended his contract with the Hawks until the end of 2026. – Michael Whiting.
Melbourne
Clayton Oliver’s eventful summer has dominated the headlines during ‘s off-season, ranging from inquiries from rival clubs about his availability in the AFL Trade Period to the club setting expectations for his conduct. Oliver faced a brief hospitalization in October following a seizure and is set to appear in court in February for driving without a valid license. He departed the club’s training camp in Lorne prematurely and subsequently took personal leave in January. Returning to training on Wednesday, Oliver is expected to have a delayed start to the season as he works towards regaining full fitness.
In other news unrelated to Oliver, former Lion Tom Fullarton is sidelined for the beginning of the season due to a significant hamstring injury, while Lachie Hunter is racing against time to recover from a troublesome calf issue. Veteran tall Tom McDonald is undergoing training as a defender, and captain Max Gawn and vice-captain Jack Viney will resume their leadership roles for the 2024 season. – Michael Rogers.
North Melbourne
Defender Aidan Corr sustained a “significant” ankle sprain during the pre-season training camp in December, prompting his return to a modified program in the new year. Tarryn Thomas experienced a challenging off-season both on and off the field, undergoing minor groin surgery and facing scrutiny from the AFL Integrity Unit following a new allegation of “inappropriate behavior.” Nick Larkey has been promoted to vice-captain, and Bailey Scott along with Harry Sheezel have joined the leadership group.
In the time trial, Jy Simpkin, Dylan Stephens, and Liam Shiels secured the top three positions. Zac Fisher has contended with several hamstring issues, while ruck Tristan Xerri required facial surgery due to a collision during match simulation. Jed Adcock and Xavier Clarke have come on board as assistant coaches, and Brent Harvey has transitioned from development coaching to an off-field role. – Sarah Black.
Port Adelaide
The month of December brought significant developments for the Power, starting with star midfielder Zak Butters signing a two-year contract extension until the conclusion of 2026. This was followed by midfielder Willem Drew extending his contract until 2028, and tall forward Ollie Lord securing a deal until 2026. The major announcement came with the appointment of star onballer Connor Rozee as captain, accompanied by an eight-year contract extension lasting until the end of 2032.
Despite these positive moves, there were some setbacks, including finger surgery for new ruckman Ivan Soldo and an arthroscopy for draftee Xavier Walsh due to a jarred knee. Off the field, attention has been drawn to the race for a vacant member-elected board position, with club legend Warren Tredrea actively participating in the election. – Nathan Schmook.
Richmond
Richmond’s pre-season updates primarily revolve around injuries. Toby Nankervis will assume the solo captaincy in 2024, succeeding Dylan Grimes, who stepped back after two years in the shared role. Dustin Martin encountered a couple of minor setbacks, including a head knock and a rolled ankle, while Tom Lynch has recently returned to running. Grimes is currently dealing with a calf injury, Nick Vlastuin had to miss recent sessions due to concussion, and Dion Prestia has been hindered by another soft-tissue injury. On a positive note, Josh Gibcus appears ready to go after sitting out the entirety of 2023 due to a complex hamstring injury. Additionally, under the guidance of new coach Adem Yze, Noah Balta seems poised to play in the forward line rather than in defense this season. – Sarah Black.
St Kilda
While the sudden departure of CEO Simon Lethlean surprised the football community, the Saints have experienced a relatively low-key pre-season on the training track. Goalsneak Dan Butler faces a race against time to be fit for round one, dealing with a persistent ankle injury that has affected his pre-season. Max King’s recovery from shoulder surgery is progressing well, and Anthony Caminiti (hamstring) and Jack Hayes (knee) are on modified training programs as they recuperate from injuries. The workloads of veterans Brad Crouch, Dougal Howard, and Tim Membrey have been carefully managed throughout the pre-season.
Untried defender James Van Es recently underwent ankle surgery to remove a screw from a previous operation that was causing discomfort. The Saints are scheduled to participate in a match simulation against Essendon on February 23, followed by their Community Series match against North Melbourne on March 3. – Sophie Welsh.
Sydney
The off-season spotlight has predominantly been on Sydney’s new additions, particularly ruck Brodie Grundy, who shared insights into his move north and will don the No.4 jumper previously worn by the legendary Tony Lockett. Former Demon James Jordon has made a strong impression during pre-season training. Errol Gulden, following his breakout 2023, issued a statement of intent by winning the 2km time trial upon returning to training in January, with 15 others achieving personal best times.
Callum Mills, recovering from a significant shoulder injury, resumed training in Coffs Harbour this week, sparking optimism for an earlier-than-expected return. Mills remains the only player dealing with a major injury, while young ruck Lachlan McAndrew is managing a minor wrist issue, and Sam Reid and Joel Amartey are on modified programs due to their injury history. Off the field, recruiting chief Simon Dalrymple departed after six years at the club to join St Kilda. – Martin Smith.
West Coast
The notable development during a bustling summer at the Eagles was the announcement that Oscar Allen and Liam Duggan would serve as co-captains, marking only the second time in the club’s history that such a shared role has been established. Meanwhile, attention has been consistently focused on Harley Reid, the highly-regarded draftee, who has made a significant impact in the west, showcasing his talent in his initial pre-season while alternating between half-back and the midfield.
Significant injury concerns revolve around Dom Sheed (foot), Elijah Hewett (foot), and Liam Ryan (hamstring), with Ryan committing to a two-year contract extension, extending through to the end of 2026. In administrative changes, new chief executive Don Pyke assumed his role in mid-January, and after over 30 years with the club, list manager Rohan O’Brien stepped down. The Eagles received a substantial boost with the appointment of AFLW champion Daisy Pearce as the new AFLW coach. – Nathan Schmook.
Western Bulldogs
The Bulldogs have faced a tumultuous off-season, most notably marked by the devastating ACL injury suffered by midfield standout Bailey Smith. As the 23-year-old is currently without a contract beyond this season, his future becomes a prominent topic, and there’s a possibility that he may have already concluded his tenure with the club.
Tim English, the star ruckman, whose contract status will be closely monitored this year, experienced migraine-related symptoms, leading him to miss contact drills last month; however, subsequent tests confirmed that the issue is unrelated to concussion. Other players, including Jack Macrae, Alex Keath, Laitham Vandermeer, Bailey Williams, Riley Garcia, Jordan Croft, and Aidan O’Driscoll, have encountered disruptions in their pre-seasons due to injuries. Nonetheless, young tall Sam Darcy is poised for a breakout year after making a strong impression in match simulation sessions. The Bulldogs have undergone significant off-field changes, with several coaching departures and a review conducted by former Essendon and Melbourne CEO Peter Jackson, resulting in the promotion of Matt Egan to the newly created position of general manager of football operations. – Martin Smith.
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