Merrigum coach Olivia Jackson is eyeing off her side being a challenger come September.
The Bulldogs’ A-grade mentor is back at the helm for a third straight year and has a strong belief that her side can rub shoulders with the best.
And there is little to argue that the Bulldogs won’t be there come crunch time.
Jackson’s charges were destined to play finals in 2021 before COVID-19 wreaked havoc.
Now more than eight months on, Merrigum is aiming to go deep into September action.
“It’s going to be great to be able to build on what we achieved together last year,” Jackson said.
“We’ve had a good start to training. We didn’t start (pre-season) until this year; we just didn’t want the girls to get burnt out too quickly.
“We’ve lost a couple from our squad, but we’ve been able to pick up a few as well which is nice.
“Our goal is to play finals and we are aiming for a top-four finish.”
Talented midcourter Allana Adams has departed, along with Siarn Pedretti, however, the Bulldogs have been able to accommodate the departures.
Versatile defender Ebony Halliwell is back after a few seasons away, while young gun Latia Doherty is destined to step up and make a presence in defence.
Jackson is tipped to return to the court following some years out due to a serious knee injury and will provide another layer of class to Merrigum’s outfit.
Madeline Hall will join Maddy Wilson in what will undoubtedly be a slick midcourt, while best-and-fairest winner Kate Sloan will return after a stellar 2021.
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