Speaking at Lions training, Banfield said it was important for the Club to regain a winning culture and get some early reward for their tough pre-season training program.
“A lot of the boys have really dug in and had good off-seasons, so it should put us in good stead for the year,” Banfield said.
“(This weekend) we’ll obviously try and get some run into our legs, get back into game mode, and trial people in different positions. But we’re also going out there win every game - there’s no doubt we’ll be going out there to win.”
The 21 year-old said there will be extra incentive given the Lions are scheduled to face-off against Queensland’s ‘other’ team - the Gold Coast SUNS.
“They’re our rivals down the road, so it should be good to battle off against them before the season starts.”
Banfield was the Lions’ third highest goal-kicker in 2011 (24 goals), after kicking 27 goals in a breakthrough season as a small forward in 2010.
The West Australian identified some key areas of his game that he has focussed on over summer, and hopes to develop them enough to potentially lend a hand to his midfield team-mates more often.
“I want to be a lot more consistent across four quarters, be cleaner with my hands, and hopefully keep my spot in the team,” he said.
“I’ve also been working on being more efficient with my disposal, and building my engine up a bit more so I can help the boys out in the midfield.”
“I know the structures a lot better now, so if the boys ever need a spell, I’ll definitely pitch in.”
