RUCKMAN Mark Jamar says he feels like he’s “got a new lease on life” having dropped a few kilos and got to the Christmas/New Year unscathed, after an injury-interrupted pre-season last year.  

Jamar, who is Melbourne’s current longest serving player, having been drafted to the club back in December 2002 as a rookie, said he felt invigorated entering the break.

“I’m four kilos lighter than when I finished the season and I’ve been able to run a bit better and have more energy,” he told Dee TV.

“I’m really excited and I’m really enjoying it. This time last year I was stuck in the pool or on the bike in the rehab group but fortunately this year I’ve been out there and it beats being inside, so it’s worth it. A bit of a lifestyle change and watching what you put in your mouth. It’s pretty simple.

“I’d say I’ve been consistent, I don’t know if I’m flying but I’ve done all of the skill sessions so far and I’ve been really enjoying it.

“It was a lot different this time last year when I was a bit injured. I might actually have a fitness base this year which will help me launch into the season and hopefully have a bit more air in the lungs.”

Jamar said the fact that Melbourne’s ruck division was training strongly was a big plus this pre-season. 

“Jack Fitzpatrick has pretty much done everything, Max King is working really hard to try and improve, Gawny has just come back into the main group and I can tell you he’s flying,” he said.

“There’s a lot of upside and a lot of competition for spots which is exactly what we need.”