With COVID-19 haven taken its toll on local communities, Essendon are relishing the opportunity to return to rural Victoria for their Bendigo community camp. 

The Dons have spent the past two days in the northern regional city, the first time the club has embarked on an in-person community camp since 2020. 

Senior coach Brad Scott is thrilled to be back in the community and recognised the importance of these events. 

“I think it is great after a three-year absence from community camps in person that we can get back out to heartland Victoria and get out to the people again,” he said. 

“It has been a real tough time for a whole range of people, but I think it serves as a reminder how important football is for local communities. 

“It has been great for us and hopefully a big boost for the community.” 

With yesterday comprising school visits and community clinics, Essendon's second day in Bendigo saw the side put through their paces in an open training session at Queen Elizabeth Oval. 

Being only two weeks out from practice matches, Scott says his side is continuing to refine all aspects of their game. 

“We want to be really balanced in all parts of the game; we have worked on all areas,” Scott said. 

“We are not going to get too specific at the microlevel, but we’ve got all facets of the game we would like to improve in.”

With a young list on his hands, Scott has been impressed by the maturity and commitment shown by younger members of the side. 

Scott understands these young players are the future of the club and that the opportunity to build that group is at the forefront of his mind. 

“21 of our players are first to four years,” Scott said. 

“The guys that are coming through like Archie Perkins and a few other guys have been impressive. 

“We are doing as much work on what that succession looks like and building that next group coming through.”  

With the next big calendar event being a pre-season hit out with Gold Coast, Scott is certain the majority of his playing list will be able to gain some match simulation minutes. 

“We will take upwards of 35 players up to play in that match sim,” he said. 

“It is a great opportunity for everyone on our list to play some AFL footy. 

“Our objective is to get some match play into majority of our list.” 

Essendon will face Gold Coast first official practice game against Gold Coast at Metricon Outer Oval on Thursday, February 24. 

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