Western Bulldogs defender Nicole Callinan has returned to pre-season ready to take on next year in the red, white and blue.

With ten new players arriving at the kennel this year, Callinan told westernbulldogs.com.au what fans can expect from the fresh side in 2018.

“The new girls have fit in really well - it’s going to be an exciting year,” said Callinan.

“We’ve all worked really hard during this pre-season and the VFL season too. Across the board I think we’re all gearing up and working hard.”

No stranger to leading a group, the Darebin Falcons captain has taken the opportunity to act as a mentor for some of this year’s new recruits.

“I think it’s in me naturally to get around the girls and make them feel included, whether they’ve played here before or not,” she said.

“Making sure they’re comfortable and feeling safe - I think that will bring out the best in them.”

Along with the new-look list comes a renewed focus on getting better.

“With the development program that we’ve got in place, there’s always something to improve on, Callinan said.

“It’s all about the development of each individual- not just physically but mentally as well.”