PRE-SEASON has a new look for Blake Acres this year.

Well and truly on the mend from back surgery and rejoining in main training, Acres has juggled that by stepping into fatherhood with the recent arrival of his and Steph's son Hugo.

Eager to embrace both journeys, Acres is ready to learn, grow and adapt.

“I took a few days off last week to get the baby out! It’s good fun, it’s exciting and a lot is happening at home. I’ve got a lot to learn still, you’re learning every day,” Acres said. 

“I’m back into full training now and match sim. Hopefully I have a good three or four-week block here and get into some proper games here – I’m feeling really good, refreshed and keen for this season.”

Keen to swap laps in the summer heat for training alongside his teammates, Acres took a keen interest watching on at training in the final weeks of 2024.

The Club's new draftees caught the eye of the 29-year-old, with one in particular standing out.

“I was always watching the young draftees, you’re always keen to see what they’re doing with their footy,” he said. 

“They’re all pretty exciting but Jagga Smith is one that stood out to me, especially today with how fast he is and he’s so clean with the footy and a good kick – he’s someone I’m looking forward to playing with and working with a bit.”

While his protégé Ollie Hollands is in line to spend more time down back, Acres remains deeply invested in the development of both Hollands and teammate Jaxon Binns.

Now entering his 12th AFL season, the experienced winger has embraced his role as a mentor at the Club. Confident in the potential of the emerging young talent, his excitement was evident to see them strengthen their connection heading into 2025.

“I spoke to ‘Binnsy’ last week, I thought he’s taken a real step up again with his footy: he’s always been knocking down the door for some senior games, so hopefully we can get him in this year and build a good connection with him.

“Ollie loves going to get the footy, we want the footy in his hands. He’s bringing that part, he’s still got a bit to do but he’s doing well – a new role is exciting for him and for us as well.”