STAWELL Callawadda Estate Warriors are gearing up for their first hit out of the year when they take on St Arnaud at North Park tomorrow.
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With Easter preparations in full swing Warriors have been forced to train at an alternative ground while Central Park is protected for the running of the Woolworths Stawell Gift.
Coach Brad Cassidy has been busily preparing his team as best he can leading into their first real practice match.
"The boys have had a solid but well structured preseason this year," Cassidy said.
"That by itself has seen us in better shape than last year. We have played an intra club match, we have St Arnaud this weekend then Terang Mortlake after Easter."
Warriors will have two official practice matches before they commence their Wimmera Football season on April 18.
It will be a good opportunity for Warriors coaches and supporters to catch a glimpse of the many new recruits.
Brad Thomas will pull on a Stawell jumper for the first time in his assistant coaching role, while Scott Driscoll will be in a similar position.
Warriors will welcome back James Delahunty following his stint in the Horsham District League, Luke Hendy from Navarre, Kyle Hendy from North Ballarat and Ben Williamson, who has spent the last couple of seasons overseas.
Kyle Hendy is a big inclusion for Warriors given not that long ago he was sidelined with a serious back injury.
While there was some doubt whether he would ever play the game again, he has been given the all clear to return to the track.
"Kyle has the potential to be a really important player for us," Cassidy said.
"We have to be careful with his workload and when he is right on the track we will look to play him. For us it is about the long term and what effects the injury has."
Warriors will play six 20 minute quarters against St Arnaud with players having the opportunity to put two or three quarters together.
"It's a good chance for them to just get out there and play football," Cassidy said.
"I've seen their enthusiasm on the track so I'm just looking forward to getting started."
For St Arnaud it will be their last hitout before they start their season on April 11.
Cassidy is expecting them to come out with intent so they take a positive step before their opening game.
"We will be taking it seriously at the same time as just getting some run into the legs," Cassidy said.
"We have worked a lot on different things we want to do during the game and this weekend is the time to implement those things."
Warriors under 14s will commence against Navarre at 9.30am followed by the under 17s.
Senior and reserves action will kick off at 12pm at North Park.
There will be a barbecue and drinks back at the Central Park clubrooms following the game at approximately 3pm.