The ball is about to be bounced on 2017 and defender Andrew Mackie can’t wait to get started.
Speaking to the media upon arriving in Launceston ahead of Friday night’s JLT Community Series fixture against Hawthorn at the University of Tasmania Stadium, the 32-year-old said there’s no better way to kick off 2017 than against an old foe.
“It’s been a long pre-season. We’re like everyone else, just looking forward to playing against some opposition,” Mackie told reporters.
“It’s great that we get to come here and play against Hawthorn, a team that we’ve got a pretty fierce rivalry with.”
“It’s a pre-season game but whenever you put the jumper on you want to win and we’ll be no different tomorrow night. Everyone’s raring to go and I’ve got no doubt they [Hawthorn] will be to.”
Geelong has named a strong side to face the Hawks, featuring the likes of Patrick Dangerfield, Tom Hawkins, Cameron Guthrie and Mackie himself, amongst new faces Zach Tuohy and Aaron Black.
Youngsters Brandan Parfitt, Zach Guthrie and Jack Henry have also been included in Geelong’s 29-man squad and while the side hitting their straps early is crucial, Mackie is pleased to see the next wave of Cats get their chance.
“I don’t think there’s any doubt that you want to be able to find some form early in the year. If you look forward a month or so, we’re playing Fremantle over in WA in round one so we want to make sure we’re up and about.”
“[But] that’s a good thing about the competition. It’s a great opportunity for them [the young players] to show the coaches where they’re at and what they can do and where they can hopefully find themselves – whether it be for round one or round 22, it doesn’t matter.”
“Hopefully they can put a good case together.”
The Cats have not travelled south to ‘the island state’ for a decade – their last match in Tasmania being a round four loss to Hawthorn in 2007.
Mackie played in that game and while the result wasn’t in Geelong’s favour on the day, he’s happy to return.
“It’s been ten years since we played last [in Tasmania], so getting on a bit. I played in that one,” Mackie laughed.
“It’s a good spot to come and play footy. The oval is great, from memory, and everyone enjoys coming here. Hopefully we get a big crowd and hopefully both teams put on a really big show.”
