The Bombers’ youngsters will return to the NEC Hangar today (Wednesday) as they commence their assault on the 2022 campaign.

The first-to-five-year players will have their first official training session back in club colours since the curtains were drawn on the 2021 season in the Bombers’ elimination final at the end of August.  

With the rest of the competition beginning pre-season on November 22, general manager of football Josh Mahoney explained the reason behind the Bombers' early start.

“In anticipation of a unique off-season for our players where their movement was going to be limited, we proposed a program pre-Christmas that involves our players coming back earlier but on a part-time basis," Mahoney said.

"We believe the proposed structure is the best outcome to allow players and staff the ability to enjoy the eased restrictions in Victoria with their allotted days off and ensure that we're able to get the appropriate training in pre-Christmas.

"Pleasingly after discussions with the players, the AFLPA and the AFL, the proposal was accepted and we are excited to welcome our first-to-five-year players back today and the remainder of the playing group in the coming weeks."

The rest of the Bombers' players will return to the club on Monday, November 29.

Stay tuned to the club's social media channels (@essendonfc on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and TikTok), app and website for pre-season updates.