Since overcoming a small injury hurdle in his pre-season, Will Sierakowski is now back and ready for his first season as a North Melbourne player.

With stand-out performances in the club’s pre-season time trails and a strong fitness base, Sierakowski was thankful to finally get back into games, playing for Werribee in last Saturday’s practice match.

“I had a bit of trouble with my bicep femoris, part of my hamstring. I needed a bit of de-loading so I did a little less training for two weeks to allow me to get over that injury and as a result I unfortunately missed the intra-club and first NAB Cup game,” Sierakowski told kangaroos.com.au.

“I was a bit scratchy in the VFL practice match because it was my first hit out, but I got a few touches. It felt really good to get back out there and get the first match out of the way.”

After three years on Hawthorn’s rookie list, the 21-year old is determined to make a good impression at his new club and is setting his sights on senior selection.

“You want to impress at your new club when you’re given a fresh start. Having not played AFL footy at my previous club, it’s pretty important to me to play seniors or at least put my best foot forward to be available to play.

“I’m hoping to play in one of the NAB Cup games. I might not make it this week but there’s still three games left. Hopefully I can get one or two in before the season starts.”

A challenge for Sierakowski in his push for senior selection is the strong competition from other young North Melbourne defenders such as Jamie Macmillan.

“I like playing across the half back line which is tough since there are a few boys who play similar positions to me but I think my fitness is one thing which I do have on my side.

“Really it just comes down to form and whoever’s in the best form throughout the season will get more opportunity.

“We have a good batch of young players here which is great for our future and I’m happy to be a part of it.”