Hundreds of fans turned out at Windy Hill for the club’s open training session on Wednesday morning to see the players undertake an intense session in warm conditions.

Essendon midfielder Jake Melksham said it was great to see so many fans attend the session.

“It’s terrific to see all the fans out here to come and watch us, we get such good support ever year which is great,” Melksham said.

“We started the session pretty well compared to the other day when we were a bit slow.

“Our skills were up today and we trained really well.”

Dashing defender Courtenay Dempsey was running across the ground well throughout the session and showed he is ready to continue from what was a strong 2012 season.

Patrick Ryder and Tom Bellchambers are continuing o impress on the training track with the pair looking to form a formidable duo in the ruck this season along with veteran David Hille.

Defender Jake Carlisle is also beginning to look in top condition and would be hoping for a consistent season as part of the Bombers back six.