First impressions count, and Lachie Hunter has made a favourable one to start pre-season, setting the standard in the opening time trial run.

66 days since the final siren sounded on the Bulldogs 2014 season, 15 of the Bulldogs’ first to fourth year players returned to the training track at Victoria University Whitten Oval on Wednesday morning.

Hunter led home the two-kilometre run ahead of teammates Marcus Bontempelli and Mitch Wallis.

Playing 14 senior games in 2014, Hunter’s testing results would show he has the natural endurance base to push into the midfield in his third season at the Club.  

Hunter has predominantly played across half forward in his 23 career games.

While the temperature was moderate, quintessential blustery conditions prevailed to signal the players’ return.

“The break went fairly quickly, but it’s always good to comeback and start training with your mates and your teammates,” said Mitch Wallis.

“The boys all got through [the time trial]. It was fairly windy, some fairly tough conditions, but there were some good results and we’ve got plenty to work on.”

A short skills session completed the outdoor training component for the opening day on the track, while strength testing and weights was scheduled for the afternoon.

After nearly two months away from the Club on leave, Wallis said the group were happy to get back into routine of skills work.

“It was good to get the footy in the hands again, start kicking and handballing,  which you don’t do as much over the break because your body needs a rest, but it’s good to get back into it.”