While most clubs start pre-season training in Novemner, Collins went against the norm by not starting official club training until January.

Saturday night's round once clash against Golden Square won't be a complete guide as to whether the move was a success or not, but Collins enters the season full of confidence.

"Our attendance at training was very good which showed me the boys are keen to achieve something this year.

"Will we be behind the eight-ball in terms of fitness? I gues the proof will be in the pudding.

"Our first month will tell us the answer to that.

"I wanted the blokes to be fit and fresh and my gut feel is that our boys are just that."

Collins said there'll be strong competition for spots in the Sandhurst senior squad, with Joel Wharton, Daniel Connors, Zeb Broadbent, Callum Prest, Josh Hann and Pascal Craig all sidelined for round one.

"It will probably be round three or four before we get everyone available,'' he said.

"With either suspension or injury we'll have five or six out of our best side for round one."

Recruit Jake Pallpratt has impressed everyone at the Dragons in the pre-season, while athletic big man Taylor Strachan is back in Sandhurst colours and he’ll rotate between the ruck and a key forward post.

The Bulldogs have a similar look to 2017 although the inclusions of Brad Eaton and Nathan Holt, and the full-time availability of Jayden Burke, gives the club more flexibility through the midfield and in key positions.

Power forward Dylan Johnston is unavailable for the clash with the Dragons.