Swifts and Great Western have benefited from a tough first-up practice match last week.
In hot conditions, both teams pushed themselves to blow out cobwebs and impress coaches.
New recruits at the Swifts were eager to make a good first impression, with Liam Scott, Matt Bourke, Zac Armer and Ben Taylor gathering plenty of the football.
Armer went in hard and was rewarded early, but a rough tackle resulted in him hitting his head of the North Park turf.
He suffered from slight concussion and took no further part in the game.
Baggies coach Carey said it was a good start for both Swifts and Great Western.
"The most pleasing thing for Swifts was the amount of numbers we had out there," he said.
"We had enough for two teams and as a result we are going to have more depth this season. There were a lot of players who really impressed me and looked to secure their senior position."
Carey said he was happy with the way his new-look team seemed to gel, but the inaccurate kicking was an issue.
"We have 11 new faces in what I think is our best team," Carey said.
"We moved the ball really well and were able to lock it in our forward 50, but we kicked more points than we did goals. That is something we need to correct in the next month or so."
In comparison to the same time last year Carey said his list was a more positive one.
"Our list has definitely improved from this time last year," Carey said.
"It was a low key hit out, but the numbers were fantastic and that is a good sign leading into the season."
The Baggies made their mark with the physical aspect of the practice match.
Carey said it was important part of their game plan.
"Body contact and pressure of disposal is something you can teach at training," he said.
"If someone turns the ball over in a practice match there is consequences if it happens at training you feel silly and move on."
Swifts will have another practice match against Moyston-Willaura at the weekend.
Great Western was in a similar position under new coach Will Bell.
Bell led from the front for Great Western getting plenty of the ball and using it to perfection.
Reserves coach and senior player Aiden Lee also went in hard and was rewarded.
The first quarter was a big wake up call for the Lions, but they fought back.
The Lions were able to level out the match in the final three quarters for a confidence boost ahead of their Mininera and district league season.
