While he may have played in Richmond’s 2017 premiership side, seasoned wingman Kamdyn McIntosh says the Tiger youngsters are keeping him on his toes.
As the JLT Community Series fast approaches, McIntosh said the professionalism and determination of the Tiger recruits has not gone unnoticed.
MEMBERSHIP The Hunt Continues in 2019; join as a member today
“The young boys like Rossy (Jack Ross), Fraser (Turner), Luke (English) and Riley (Collier-Dawkins) have come in, putting their hand up straight away,” he said.
“Us as older players, seeing the young boys come in, it really makes you as an older guy keep on your toes and keep educating yourself.
“I think (the JLT) will be tight for spots but at the end of the day whoever is fittest and ready to go will be picked.”
The 24-year-old turned heads in last year’s qualifying win over Hawthorn with an electric three-goal performance.
His 2018 season featured a total of nine goals, his best to date, sparking motivation to better it again this year.
“Kicking a few snags last year was pretty cool,” McIntosh said.
“It’s always nice to get that adrenaline pumping…. I’d like to kick a few more goals this year if I can.”
After reaching new heights this pre-season, it appears he is already on his way.
“I’m going into my seventh year now and to think I’m still hitting personal bests is just a credit to the fitness staff and the physio group we have here,” he said.
“At the moment, out on the track, I’m moving well and ready to start things off for the season.”
As the Tigers reach the pointy end of the pre-season, McIntosh said the intensity around the group is ramping up.
“We’re in a really good headspace at the moment going into the JLT in a couple of weeks,” he said.
“The boys are up and about, they’re pretty keen to get things started…you want to be ready to go and I think we’re there.”
Just over two weeks remain until the Tigers play Melbourne in their first JLT match, to be held in Shepparton on Sunday, March 3.
“(JLT is) very important, it’s a good indicator to see where our fitness is at before the season starts,” McIntosh said.
“It’s good for the young players…to see what it’s like playing in an AFL environment and what the intensity is like."
BROWSE Find a 2019 membership package suited to you
In preparation, the group undertook a match simulation session on Thursday morning which left McIntosh overwhelmed with optimism.
“The boys are up and about, they’re scary,” he said.
“They’re coming in hot…and Rancey and Cotchy, great leaders out there today.
“I think we’ve taken a few steps forward out there on the track with our communication and all being on the one page.
“It was a good hit out to see where we see ourselves individually because that willl take us into JLT and that will be very structured, a very good hit out I’m sure.”
