Essendon’s gruelling pre-season continued today as the Bombers braved the elements in an early morning training session at the tan track.

Coach James Hird said the early signs of improvement among the playing group were pleasing - both physically and in terms of mental resilience.  

“The players trained really well this morning. We are three weeks into the pre-season now so we are starting to see a little bit of a response to the training and starting to see the players train in the way we expect them to,” Hird told Bomber.tv.

“When things are tough, you have to work harder. One thing I have learned about AFL football is that things do get tough and you have to be prepared to work through those hard times in a game.”

The solid form shown by Brent Stanton and Brent Prismall early in the pre-season continued as they set the pace on the track this morning.

“They are both running very well and are both terrific athletes. If they continue to train over the pre-season in the way that they have so far then I expect them both to have a very good season,” Hird said.

Despite three years out of the game, Hird appeared to be in good shape as he joined in conditioning drills with the team.

“I know my limitations so I just drop out of the drills where I know I won’t be able to keep up and jump in when I know people are watching,” Hird joked.