Carlton defender Sam Docherty says the entire playing group has bought in to the new standards set at the Blues.

In the midst of his third pre-season with Carlton, Docherty says the changes under new coach Brendon Bolton had been “pretty significant” and were resonating with the players.

“There’s a new game plan and new standards on and off the track. It’s (pre-season) been very refreshing and very enjoyable,” Docherty told Radio Sport National on Friday.

“‘Bolts’ is very thorough. He’s not letting things slide through the cracks. He’s making sure everyone from the senior boys to the youngest boys are understanding what we’re going through and what needs to happen.

“The knowledge, and acceptance of the knowledge from everyone on the list has been amazing. Everyone is willing to learn, and the way they’re (coaches) teaching is different, but it’s working really well.”

While praising the talent of Carlton’s new youngsters, Docherty said he was equally impressed by the commitment from the more experienced brigade this pre-season.  

“All the senior boys have really stepped up in just wanting to impress as much as the first-years are trying to impress,” he said. 

“They’re not being complacent about where they are. A few of them have said to me that the slate is clean, and that they’ve got to prove themselves again. I think just doing that has lifted all the standards around the footy club.”

The Blues kick off their NAB Challenge campaign against Hawthorn in Tasmania on February 18, before hosting Essendon in a highly anticipated fixture at Ikon Park on February 28.

Docherty said the disappointment of 2015 had brought the players closer together as they embark on a new season.

“As bad as last year was, it galvanised the group a fair bit in that (knowing) we can get through the tough times,” he said.

“We’ve got a reason to be excited. It’s a fresh start, we’ve got a lot of young talent through the door and I’m personally very excited about where we’re going.”