IN TRAINING on day one.
For Mitch McGovern, that marks the first time since his debut pre-season five years ago.
Having already undertaken extra sessions by returning early with the Club's youngsters, McGovern fronted up on Monday as Carlton's full list officially began pre-season.
It’s a far cry from 12 months ago, when McGovern arrived at his new club on the comeback trail from double ankle surgery.
Back and “raring to go”, McGovern said he was relishing in being able to join in from the outset.
“To be able to start on day one, it’s a good change for me,” McGovern told Carlton Media.
“A few of the boys are in the same boat as well. They’re feeling pretty healthy, pretty good.
“‘Jack’ Russell is obviously going to take the reins with us. He’ll help me out a fair bit to get me to where I need to be.”
McGovern kicked 22 goals from his 16 Navy Blue games in 2019, struggling to gain consistency as a result of restricted training each week.
So it comes as no surprise where his focus lies leading into the upcoming summer: and that’s as far as McGovern is looking.
“I haven’t really set out any goals for the year itself: it’s more the pre-season that I’m focussing on,” he said.
“To get a full pre-season under my belt, to not miss any sessions and hopefully start Round 1 as fit as I can be [are my goals].”
When arriving at Ikon Park, a lot was made about the potential threat a three-pronged attack containing McGovern, Charlie Curnow and Harry McKay.
Having only played as a collective trio on six occasions (twice under David Teague), McGovern said the chance to build synergy among the group was a key focus heading into their second season.
“I can’t wait,” he said.
“It’s unfortunate with Charles with his injury but I’m looking forward to getting on the track with both of them and working on our chemistry and synergy, which will be great fun.
“We didn’t see it too much during the year but hopefully we see it more often next year.”