A hunger to go one step further in 2016 is driving North Melbourne players as they prepare for a Christmas break.

Ben Jacobs, who had a standout year as arguably the competition’s best tagger, said the hard work wouldn’t stop once the players break, before returning in the New Year.

“It’s tough,” Jacobs said.

“It’s starting to heat up. The boys are eager, football is what we’re here for so we’re very excited.”

Even with a short break for Christmas and New Year coming up, there is no time to over indulge this festive season.

“It’s still pretty hard work. If you come back in bad shape you pay for it. You’re going to regret every bit Christmas pudding when you come back.”

With the majority of the Roos' players fit and firing this pre-season, Jacobs said the competition for places was helping maintain high standards at training.

“So many guys are in great shape this year,” he said.

“We’re pretty hungry, we know what it takes now and everyone is eager.

Jacobs said there was plenty of positivity around Arden St heading into 2016.

“After two prelims in a row, where the group is at and the quality of the players we have, we want nothing less than to make it all the way.”