Collingwood utility Patrick Lipinski has returned to the club at the peak of his powers, showcasing his impressive aerobic capacity and skills under fatigue.
The Pies’ full squad were required back on deck at the KGM Centre following the return of the first-to-fourth-year players last week.
In typical Melbourne fashion, the weather produced every scenario possible, putting the group under pressure with heavy rainfall, which was bookended by streaks of sunshine that attempted to dry the oval and footballs.
Lipinski was clean amongst all conditions by hand and foot, but was the most impressive in the end-of-session shuttle runs, which test the players’ speed, endurance and determination.
He was joined by noted strong runners Isaac Quaynor and Roan Steele. The latter was also one of the frontrunners during last week’s sessions.
Those present noticed Bobby Hill, Jordan De Goey and Josh Daicos were absent from main training, while Dan Houston and Beau McCreery were seen on the bike as their teammates braved the unpredictable weather.
Hill did some laps early in the session, as did captain Darcy Moore and mid-season recruit Noah Howes.
Moore underwent shoulder surgery during the off-season on an injury he sustained in May.
Nick Daicos participated in the majority of drills following the reveal of his injuries he endured through the 2025 finals series.
Daicos had bone bruising on the fifth metatarsal of his right foot and suffered a PCL injury in the week leading up to the preliminary final against Brisbane.
The ultra-consistent Jack Crisp was also seen running laps in between drills in a bid to build his loads, as did Tew Jiath and Lachlan Schultz.
Reef McInnes and Harvey Harrison are taking long strides towards a full recovery from their respective ACL tears, joining the majority of training in a positive sign ahead of the new season.
Collingwood’s five draftees continue to immerse themselves in lives as professional athletes, showcasing their unique skillsets in their second week as Pies.