Dyson Heppell says the intensity displayed by his teammates throughout the early stages of the pre-season has been ‘outstanding’.

The returning players and the Club’s first to fourth year group are in training, with the rest of the squad to return next week.

“Based on the first two weeks, just the intensity of training has been outstanding,” Heppell said.

“The guys willingness to learn, even voicing opinions and asking questions in meetings from the young boys I think has been outstanding.”

Heppell said he’s noticed significant improvement in the second and third year players who took on greater responsibility in 2016.

“We saw the development of a lot of boys coming through that midfield,” he said.

“Darcy Parish obviously had an outstanding first year, we’ll probably get to see more of Kyle Langford through there – he’s put on four or five kilos in the off-season and will give us another big body in there.

“We’re getting some really good depth and that will really help the load for the likes of Jobe, myself and others that roll through there.”

Zach Merrett was the standout performer of Essendon’s young group as he won his first Crichton Medal.

Heppell wasn’t surprised in his young teammate’s starring role.

“I probably saw it coming to be honest.  The work ethic he puts in at training, his professionalism and the way he goes about his footy is elite,” Heppell said. 

“He did have an outstanding year and I hope he can go even better this year – I’m looking forward to playing with him.” 

Heppell said the training he and his teammates undertook throughout 2016 had been designed to ensure they weren’t burnt out by the time round one comes around next year. 

The 24 year old knows the first win in 2017 will be a special moment, but hasn’t allowed himself to think about it too much.

For now, he’s just enjoying training with the group and spending time with his mates. 

“The thing I missed most is just that real competitive nature and sharing the feelings and emotions after a game, whether that be a win or a loss,” Heppell said. 

“Just getting back amongst your teammates and your best friends, I love it. 

“We’ll hit the ground running, we’ll be fine – we’ll get a bit of tackling and body contact, in the gym, it’ll be good.

“It’s fantastic to be back around the Club.  I’m really enjoying being back around the place.”