Coming off the track after another gruelling training session, emerging star Zach Merrett is eager to put all the hard work of the pre-season into action.

Being described as one of the ‘toughest’ pre-seasons to date by assistant coach Matthew Egan the boys will finally have the chance to play in their first game against the Saints next Saturday in the club's opening game of the NAB Challenge.

Merrett, now in his second year, believes that the NAB Challenge is a great opportunity for some of the club’s younger players to really step-up and be noticed.

“Our first to third year players had a bit of a chat about [the NAB Challenge] and are looking forward to it,” said Merrett.

“It’s a great chance for us to show a bit of leadership.”

The NAB Challenge will be the first real test for Merrett who was quick to impress in his debut season last year. Kicking 11 goals in 20 games the young forward is quietly determined to keep the momentum going in 2015.

However, Merrett is keeping it simple when it comes to his goals for the year ahead with his sights firmly set on round one. 

“Obviously, I just want to play round one and go from there,”

“I’m just trying to influence more games. I’m looking forward to the challenge.”