Wholehearted care for each other is driving the Bombers this pre-season, according to youngster Matt Guelfi.

And in a gruelling three-hour session in searing heat at The Hangar on Friday, this hallmark came to the fore.

Completing a two-lap challenge to kick-start day two of 2019 training, the players supported each other to the finish line and beyond, in a show of camaraderie that would have left those Bomber fans in attendance delighted.

“There’s a great feeling around the club at the moment,” Guelfi said. 

“All the boys are getting around each other, and you have to on a day like this when it’s hot out there and you’re running a two-kilometre trial.

“We’ve got to pick each other up. That’s a big focus for us this year – caring for each other. It’s one of our trademarks.”

While Patrick Ambrose blitzed the trial  ahead of Tom Jok (second) and Dylan Clarke (third), Guelfi was one of several players to set a personal best. 

The second-year speedster – taken at pick 76 in the 2017 draft - said he was reaping the benefits of his first full pre-season as he builds on an impressive debut year that yielded 15 senior games.

“It’s definitely a lot better to join in with the boys earlier instead of being behind the pace. The body’s feeling really good and I’m feeling a lot fitter than I did last year,” he said. 

“I put it (personal best) down to being on the track every training session. It’s my second year now, so it’s just good to know I’m setting PBs and getting better.” 

Used across a variety of positions in 2018, it remains to be seen where Guelfi will spend most of his time in 2019. 

But the 21-year-old doesn’t want to lose his versatility. 

“I just want to play consistent footy and play my role, wherever I play. I want to put on a bit of size and keep building my fitness. My goal is to be someone who can play anywhere,” he said. 

“I’ve proven to myself that I can make it at the top level. It’s given me a lot of confidence. I think I can really show what I’ve got now.”