A fitter and stronger Darcy Tucker is looking forward to getting stuck into his second pre-season competition, as Fremantle kick off the JLT Community Series against the West Coast Eagles on Saturday at Wonthella Oval.

Tucker is a part of the 29-man squad that will travel to Geraldton on Friday, with the final team of 26 to be finalised on game day.

A product of North Ballarat, Tucker had a busy 2016 as a first-year player, featuring in 12 AFL games and another 13 at WAFL level.

With aims of developing into a running midfielder role, Tucker hasn’t held back in his preparation for the 2017 season, working hard at increasing his running capacity and adding several kilos over the past 12 months.

If he is selected on Saturday, Tucker is looking forward to playing a versatile role.

“I’ve been training a bit on the wing and half-back flank as well,” Tucker said.

“But I’m happy to play wherever they put me against the Eagles.”

In 2016, Tucker moved in an out of the Fremantle squad and showed clear progression.

His best performances came after breaking back into the side in round 19, averaging just under 18 disposals over a five-game stretch - highlighted by a season-high 22 touches in Freo’s round 23 win against the Western Bulldogs.

With more opportunities to test himself as a second year player, Tucker is confident of continuing his development in 2017.

“In your first pre-season you get pulled in and out of stuff because of work-load,” Tucker said.

“This pre-season, I’ve able to get through the whole thing, and I’m feeling very fit and positive and prepared.

“We’ve got great fitness staff in place that have prepared us all very well for the start of the season. I’ve taken everything I can out of this pre-season, and I’m ready to go.”

Fremantle’s move to their new training base at Cockburn Central may also factor in Tucker’s development.

The squad settled in during their first week, with two full training sessions as well as strength, recovery and mental preparation sessions. 

“Everything about this place really impresses me,” Tucker said,

“It’s obviously huge, it’s one of the best going around in the world. It’s a big step up so we’re all happy to be here.”

“It might take us a few weeks to make our way around. Obviously we’re into game mode now so we’re still very focused on our football. 

“We’ve got through a very hard pre-season and it’s time to switch on, and I can’t wait to get out there.”

The JLT Community Series match between West Coast Eagles v Fremantle at Wonthella Oval on Saturday, February 25 has now sold out. No AFL or Club membership scans or general admission tickets will be available to buy on match day. Only pre-purchased ticket holders will be admitted entry.