Excitement continues to build.

Carlton's 2025 John Nicholls Medallist George Hewett spoke with the media at IKON Park on Sunday morning, ahead of the Blues' Opening Round clash with Sydney.

Opening Round excitement

"It's exciting, it's been a big pre-season and we had the two practice games, so we're pumped to get stuck into the real season, which is going to be awesome."

Ollie Florent and Will Hayward coming up against the old side

"They’ll probably be a bit more nervous than usual, but you've probably got the nerves on top of the first game of the season. Will Hayward's definitely been one of the best in the two practice games and Ollie Florent’s been unreal all pre-season. They're good footballers, they've both played about 180 games, so they're experienced."

Coming up against Charlie Curnow

"(We're) just going to treat it like another game. He's in a different team now, he was a great servant at this Club, but things move on quickly. Six months ago, some players in the AFL wouldn't have thought they'd be at certain Clubs, and it happens, so you've just got to move on very quickly... I think if you worry about that, you're not worrying about the ball and your role, so once the ball bounces it, you get pretty fixated on what you need to do. It's going to be an exciting game and it will be good for the viewers to watch, which is cool."

Jacob Weitering

"He's got to get through this week. We hope he's a good chance, but he's got to train today and we play Thursday, so (train again on) Tuesday, and hopefully he's right to go. He's been doing as much as he can... he looks in good shape."

Jagga Smith's impressive form

"It's like he's been in the system for 10 years. He just gets it, it's pretty incredible. He's got attributes that not many have... He's going to be a very, very good player. But, if he takes his time, that's okay as well... I think he'll be playing (where) he's played the last two weeks, so a bit of both (midfield and forward). He's creative, (so) we want him in the forward half as well."

Getting the team balance right

"If you can be consistent in the three areas of the game, it just gives you the best chance. If you tip over on one side of the three areas of contest, defence and offence, it gets out of whack. So, it's just trying to be very good and consistent with all three areas."

Sam Walsh's new eight-year contract and commitment to the Club

"He's just a worker, 'Walshy'. He's a competitor and worker... It's just exciting, he's just a great leader, works as hard as any, so he deserves it all. And it's great for the club, great for the fans. He's a loyal man, he's a good man."