The Brisbane Lions hit the training track for the first time in 2018 yesterday afternoon. All have returned fit and firing after the Christmas break. None more grateful to train in the scorching Brisbane sun than Archie Smith.
“Individually I’m just glad to be out there because this time last year I was in a cast after getting stingray surgery,” he told lions.com.au.
“Stingray surgery meaning I got stung by a stingray in the surf.”
The ocean was avoided as much as possible in the past few weeks.
“Baby steps. I got about ankle deep and then that’s about it.”
January is a favourite time of year for the emerging ruckman.
“I’m super pumped. This is the best part of the year. All the volume running sort of ends and then it turns into the competitive stuff, which we’re all here to do,” he said.
“It’s kind of a like a few
“You know it’s coming and you’re starting to prepare. Everything’s sort of based around
The 22-year-old is itching for the new season to commence, especially after extending his contract until 2019 late last year.
“I’m incredibly honoured for that. We’ve got a really strong ruck department here…I hope I can repay them.” he said.
“I just want to contribute to senior team success and play as much senior footy as I can.”
