Geelong’s AFLW team has officially launched its pre-season campaign.
Coach Paul Hood said he was excited to be back and planned to use the period to build team spirit, work on skills and integrate Geelong’s five new draftees.
“It’s marvellous for us to be back at GMHBA Stadium training in what is a fantastic facility,” Hood told Cats Media.
“I think the main focus pre-Christmas is building synergy again after some considerable time apart and for us putting in place some of that skill development work that we have done over the winter.
“[We will be] integrating our five draftees, of course, and making sure they feel comfortable and understand their teammates as best they can.”
Hood has been impressed by the growth of the game in recent seasons.
Last year teams shifted the ball quicker in transition and Hood expected that trend to continue.
“I think AFLW has developed really quickly,” he said.
“Teams [were] really successful at moving the ball quickly once they got out into the open. We will be looking to move the ball away from congestion and into space as best as we can, and obviously making it difficult for the other team to do that while we are defending.”
Former captain Melissa Hickey called time on her AFLW career at the end of last season but Hood believes it will be a great opportunity for other players to step up and fill the void.
“Melissa’s leadership is going to be a big loss to the team,” he said.
“She was a fantastic captain for us, but it is a great opportunity for a number of players to step up.
“We are in a great position with a lot of people that have great leadership qualities.”
