Out of contract at the end of the year and doing everything he can to break into North’s best 22, Brad McKenzie is on a mission this pre-season.

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Arguably the most skilled player at North Melbourne with his disposal by foot, the 21-year-old has been working hard on the training track to round out his game.

“This pre-season I’ve been working on my movement across the ground and my fitness,” McKenzie told NMFC.com.au.

“I came back in pretty good shape and ran a PB. The focus on high-end running translates into games which helps to run them out.”

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Over the last month on the training track, and in the game against the Hawks, McKenzie has spent slightly playing off half-back. It’s a different role compared to his customary position either in the middle or on the wing.

“It’s adding another dimension to my game, trying to use the ball well off that half-back line,” he said.

“It’s also making me accountable down back, which is nice.”

With the first two NAB Challenge games complete and a break before the final clash against Richmond, the playing list has earned a mini-break before reporting back to Arden Street on Monday.

“I’m going back home to Adelaide for a few days to relax and catch up with some friends that I haven’t seen since being overseas, so looking forward to getting back and seeing them.

“It’s been a very solid pre-season, so we’re all looking forward to getting away before coming back and (getting ready for) the Tigers.”