Prove yourself on the training track, and you could get your chance; that’s the message from Rhyce Shaw to those pushing for a spot.

With no second-tier competition to judge players’ form, the North Melbourne match committee will have a keen eye on training, and after eight weeks without games, opportunity knocks.

“We’ve explained to the guys that this is a really important week, not only in terms of preparation, but to show where you’re at, and show what you want to achieve,” Shaw said.

“There are spots up for grabs. We’ve got a number of players that are really pushing, and that’s good. It’s the environment we want to create; competition for spots.

Shaw said he was delighted with the way the players had approached their return to the club, albeit in unusual circumstances.

Temperature checks, regular showers, social distancing, hand-washing and smaller group sessions are the order of the day, with health and safety the priority.

“To get back on Monday was a really good feeling. It’s really pepped up everyone across the board," Shaw said. 

“When they (the players) came back, they were really clear on expectations and what was necessary for them to prepare for Monday.

“They came back and they looked great … it was a fantastic day and the guys trained really well, they looked excited, they looked sharp. I couldn’t be more pleased.

“We’re really excited to be here and looking forward to the next couple of weeks, in preparation for round two.”

North has a little over three weeks' preparation before its return to games, with its opponent still to be confirmed.