Despite having his 2011 pre-season interrupted with a post-Christmas hernia operation, Polkinghorne went on to become one of only six players to feature in every match last season, and averaged a career-best 16 disposals per game.
The goal-kicking midfielder, who turns 23 years old tomorrow (Saturday), said he has so far had a faultless preparation for 2012, and is hoping to play a more significant role in the Lions’ engine room.
“Pre-season has been good this year. It’s the first full one for me so far, so hopefully that holds me in good stead,” Polkinghorne told fans on lions.com.au.
“I’m hoping to get inside more this year. Doing a full pre-season certainly helps to be able to run out a game in the midfield.”
Polkinghorne had a sense of humour when asked whether his team-mates had been correct in branding him the ‘coach’s pet’.
“Ha ha, I’m not sure about being the coach’s pet,” Polkinghorne replied.
“But buying Vossy coffee every now and then doesn’t count does it?”
He also provided an insight into the domestic habits of new recruit Sam Docherty, who lived with Polkinghorne before Christmas.
“I was lucky to have Sam Docherty stay with me before Christmas, so tried to teach him a few tricks around the house,” he said.
“But I don’t think he’s too domestic just yet. He once put the dishwashing powder in the washing machine!”
CLICK HERE to read the full transcript of what James Polkinghorne had to say during his live online chat with fans.
Stay tuned to lions.com.au for more live chats with players.
