FORGET footballers getting used to sitting on the couch. It's been anything but for Coolamon, with co-coach Jake Barrett declaring the year off has put the fire back in their bellies.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Hoppers have enjoyed strong numbers at pre-season thus far, with Barrett allaying fears clubs could battle to entice players back after the majority sat out last season.
"If anything, the boys who didn't play say they're more hungry this year," Barrett said.
"They've realised how much they miss playing footy and are keen to get back into it, that's why we've had good pre-season numbers I think.
"Aside from Nick Pleming (other commitments) and Luke Redfern (SANFL) the majority are back. The good thing is everyone's stuck together and we've added a few extras."
Coolamon will have a busier trial match schedule than usual to get match fitness into players who may not have kicked a ball in a year, as well as to limit the risk of injury early in the official season.
"I think you'll find a lot of teams will try and schedule an extra trial game, especially for the boys who didn't play to get some match fitness," Barrett said.
"Also if you came out straight away after a long break in round one where you're going hell for leather injuries are going to happen, especially soft tissue ones.
"If you get some trial games games under your belt, hopefully it prevents that."
Barrett was due to take charge of the Hoppers in a sole coaching capacity last year, but will now tackle the role in tandem with former Turvey Park mentor Mark Carroll.
He said the pair have devised a strategy to maximise each other's strengths, particularly given Carroll is a non-playing coach.
"'Curl' (Carroll) has been awesome so far, especially his knowledge of the game and the relationships he's built with the players and community," Barrett said.
"It does take some pressure off myself, it just allows me to go out and play footy and he can focus on the coaching.
"Out there playing I can make instant decisions if needed, we've got a game plan of how we'll go about it which we're really happy with."
The Hoppers kick off their season against Turvey Park at Maher Oval on April 17.
READ MORE