Braving unseasonal wintery conditions at Visy Park, the Carlton Football Club hit the training track this morning for their first official team session of 2012.
 
With less than ten weeks to go before the club squares off in its round one match against Richmond, the players will spend the next three weeks working predominantly on their skills and fitness.
 
Assistant Coach John Barker said this week would be a mix of fitness testing and skills to assess the players following the Christmas break.
 
“The boys were pushing really hard before the break and have come back in good condition, so will be looking to continue where they left off,” he said.
 
“January will be a really solid month consisting of strength training, general fitness, skills, and of course continuing with our tackling and grappling program.”
 
Most players began their preseason campaign last October, with a three week high performance camp in the Middle East.
 
“There is no doubt that the training camp has laid some really important foundations, especially for some of the younger players who would be looking to secure a permanent spot in the line-up this season,” he said.
 
“A solid preseason gives the boys confidence in their bodies and ability, holding them in good stead come game time,” he said.
 
Players including Jordan Russell, Dave Ellard, Kane Lucas, Aaron Joseph, Levi Casboult and Marcus Davies are part of group of players that have been standout performers so far this preseason.