Essendon’s younger players have returned to the track to begin training for the 2016 season.

Players with between two and four years AFL experience were assessed and did some light skill work in their first session under new Coach John Worsfold. 

“It was good to see them back,” Worsfold said. 

“They’re pretty enthusiastic.  I think they’ve enjoyed their break but you do get to that point where you want to get back into training and train with your mates again.” 

Worsfold said the focus initially would just be to get some run back in the players’ legs.

“It’s really just to get them ready for the intensity that will hit them in a couple of weeks time when the whole squad is back,” he said. 

“Everything moves really quickly after Christmas so the base you get in to them now, sets them up for that January period.

“This month prior to their Christmas break is really important.” 

The younger players will complete a time trial tomorrow before travelling to the Northern Territory.

The players will spend six days in the Top End where they will combine training with community activities.