It wasn’t that long ago Nathan Hrovat’s footballing future was up in the air. 

After missing the Bulldogs’ finals campaign in 2016, Hrovat was seeking opportunity. A move to North Melbourne looked the perfect fit.

He arrived at Arden Street via a trade.

“It was definitely pretty full-on during the trade period (in 2016),” he told North Media. 

“You never really know what’s going on or what’s going to happen.”

It’s safe to say that “Rat” was happy with the end outcome; after 30 games in four seasons at the Bulldogs, he played all 22 for North in 2017.

“Landing at North has been great and I’ve really enjoyed it so far,” Hrovat said.   

Heading into his second pre-season with North, the small-forward/midfielder is relishing the new responsibilities.

“Having been here a year, it puts a bit more onus on you,” Hrovat said.

“You know the game plan, you know the structures, so you can help the drive new boys on.”

While he’s well and truly settled in at a new club, Hrovat is under no illusions about the challenges that come with pre-season.

“It’s a bit different this year, but pre-season is always hard,” he said.

“But being around the club, knowing the boys and the environment around the club does make it a little bit easier in terms of knowing what to do out on the track.” 

Although his added experience has helped in certain aspects, it hasn’t all been smooth-sailing for Hrovat in his second pre-season.

“Coming into my second year, my pre-season was a little bit delayed with some ankle issues, and I had a bit of a clean out after the season,” he added.

The good news, he’s on the comeback trail.

“I didn’t do too much before Christmas, but I’m back into full training now, and back to 100%.”