Essendon Football Club is undergoing significant changes as it aims to enhance player availability and overall competitiveness for the upcoming season. With a challenging history marked by lengthy injury lists and underwhelming performances, the club is shifting its training approach to better prepare its athletes for the rigors of match day.
Young defender Archie Roberts, who finished second in the Bombers’ best-and-fairest award this year, has already observed a transformation in the team’s training regimen. During a recent session, players engaged in high-intensity running for seven minutes without water, simulating tough match conditions where substitutions are not possible.
“The new fitness team have come in with a set of structure that’s new to us, and we’re very excited,” Roberts stated after a training session held in warm weather. He emphasized the benefits of the new training format, noting that it incorporates more high-speed and physically demanding sessions. “We know it’s setting us up for the season in 2026. We’re focusing on probably the hardest seven minutes of the game and just being better than anyone else at that—when the game’s at its toughest, being the fastest, being the hardest-working.”
Leadership Changes Within the Squad
The Bombers are also navigating a leadership transition, with Zach Merrett stepping down from the captaincy following a failed trade to Hawthorn. This decision has garnered praise from his teammates, including Roberts, who highlighted Merrett’s respected status within the team.
“Zach’s such a respected player and such a loved player of our group,” Roberts remarked. He acknowledged Merrett’s contributions: “What he said was unbelievable. He’s been an unbelievable person and captain for this club for so many years. He handed it down, but he’s still an Essendon person and we love him.”
Looking ahead, former No. 1 draft pick Andrew McGrath is anticipated to take on the captaincy role, pending a vote from players during the off-season. Roberts expressed confidence in the leadership potential within the squad, stating, “There’s so many boys that can step up and fill it. There are some unbelievable leaders and a few growing and aspiring leaders as well.”
At just 20 years old, Roberts is already stepping into a leadership role himself, demonstrating a commitment to support the new captain and guide the team to improvement. The Bombers concluded the previous season with a record of 6-17, finishing 15th on the ladder, and Roberts is eager to foster a culture of resilience and determination.
“Leadership is something I think is one of the strengths of mine,” he said. “I’m just going to be here and help guide and help support this next captain, whoever it is.”
As Essendon prepares for a new season, the combination of innovative training methods and evolving leadership dynamics could be crucial in turning the club’s fortunes around. The Bombers are determined to enhance their performance and maintain competitiveness, setting their sights on a more successful future.
