The 2023 pre-season is well underway for the Bombers at the NEC Hangar.
Entering his seventh pre-season, Jordan Ridley is no stranger to the rigours that comes with.
Despite this, spirits are high amongst the group, with much of the side returning in career-best shape post-Christmas.
“It is looking really good; the boys are good, really fit and in good shape raring to go for the season.” Ridley said.
Ridley is also enjoying the new coaching shakeup, where the additional coaches and change in philosophy has been positively received group wide.
“I’m really enjoying it, new head coach, there a few changes in philosophies around the way we train. I am really enjoying having more coaches out at training.” Ridley said.
Brad Scott has also made his presence felt on track.
“It has been great; he certainly has a presence around the place,” He said.
“He really pushes you to play towards your strengths which is great for the group.”
For Ridley, he is working to return to playing his best footy and credits completing a strong pre-season as the starting point.
“A little bit of a different focus, it changes each year in accordance to how you went last year probably.”
“I am trying to form a really good base and get a lot of minutes under my belt, so I am ready for the season and ready to start playing my best footy.”
With lots of young faces, Ridley has noticed a couple that are vying to take the next step in 2023.
“There are quite a few standouts.” Ridley said.
“Brandon Zerk-Thatcher is building nicely on the confidence he gained from the backend of last year, I reckon he is looking to take his game to another level this year.”
“Jye Menzie as a forward is also looking really good, he has started to find his feet and I think he will have a good year.”
New additions Sam Weideman and Will Setterfield have slotted in nicely and will look to add their experience to the Bombers’ core.
“Both fit in seamlessly; they have both played a bit of footy themselves at AFL level.”
“They’re looking good and will add something different to our team.”
With the first practice match on the 25th of February fast approaching, the emphasis on match simulation has increased.
