Sam Lonergan impressed fitness staff with strong yo-yo test results as the team began pre-season testing at the State Netball and Hockey Centre. The full playing group attended the session – including Essendon’s four new rookies; Bryce Carroll, Kade Klemke, Christian Bock and Tom German.

Despite taking a 10-day Christmas break, Lonergan’s testing results were impressive – improving on the result he posted at the beginning of preseason.

“Everyone walks in the door today,” Lonergan said. “There are still a few blokes around who won’t do the testing but the majority of the group are ready to go.”

“It’s probably the most nervous time when you come back and have to beat the time you set on day one of the pre-season but I improved my score from last time so that is all you can ask for.”

Lonergan said the group was feeling united after a week-long trip to Coffs Harbour prior to Christmas which focused on game strategy and leadership.

“I believe the camp went really well,” Lonergan said.

“Having such a young side, it is important to focus on strategy and do things repeatedly so that on gameday we can perform plays right down to the letter.”

Watch the full interview and training footage on Bomber.tv by clicking here.