If his round one omission was a kick in the pants, the 10 week lay-off due to Covid 19 was certainly the chance for redemption.

By his own admission Cameron Ellis-Yolmen’s first pre-season in Brisbane wasn’t his best as he took time to settle into his new surrounds.

When his name wasn’t read out for the round one side against Hawthorn, after appearing in the pre-season, he knew his fitness wasn’t where it needed to be.

The dash back to Adelaide before the borders closed after the season was cancelled provided him the opportunity to do something about it.

The 27-year-old underwent a grueling regime of boxing, cycling and cross training and when he sent a video to team mates from isolation, as part of an exercise across the entire team to keep players connected during the break, it is fair to say he raised eyebrows with the transformation.

“I just went back to Adelaide and tried to build my fitness up,’’ he said.

“Luckily for me I was able to go back there where it was less strict and I was able to go and train, I picked up my fitness, ran more and did other cross training.

“I was also able to do some other stuff, I was boxing and cycling, it was a good break for me.

“I came back refreshed and was able to get back into the team.

“Moving over here was a a bit of a challenge for me and then not getting picked for round one was a kick in the bum.

“It spurred me on to get to the fitness level I want to be at, and I am now.’’

He has been in great touch since returning to the side and is loving life in Brisbane.

He says he is endeavoring to continue with the regime where possible within the constraints of regimented, but admits the cycling is hard to fit in along with his regular training.

But he is convinced any extra work he can manage could come in handy in a season that continues to throw curveballs at the players.

“Adelaide is a bit flatter so you can cycle pretty easily but here’s there’s hills everywhere and I sweat just walking to a café,’’ he said.

“I have tried to keep up the cross training and the boxing to stay fit for the rest of the year because you never know what could happen, we could go into a hub or miss a week or whatever happens.’’