Having played all eight games in 2014, the bye weekend comes at a good time for Jake Stringer but preparations for the Gold Coast are still on the young forward’s mind.  

A deloading phase in training has allowed the Bulldogs to recuperate after Saturday’s physical clash against Melbourne but the upcoming clash against the Suns has not been forgotten.

“[Training] is still very light because it was such an intense game on Saturday – it’s good to have a decent hitout because we’ve got four days off,” Stringer said.

“It’s important that we actually do get ready for Gold Coast the following week because we’ve got a solid week next week to get through.”

While recovery has been the main focus heading into the bye, players will use the extra time to work with their respective line and development coaches on individual deficiencies.

“[We’re] just recovering from the weekend, making sure we do a few more extras and all that type of stuff,” he said.

“Making sure that we are doing our ice baths and stretching… and we get ready for the following week.

Stringer like many of his teammates will use the time away from the kennel to rest both mentally and physically among family and friends.

“Just unwind yourself, take your mind of footy, go back and enjoy your family and all that type of stuff,” he said.