Jared Polec says he’s “up for the challenges” that will come his way over the coming months, as the season edges closer and closer.

As a high-profile recruit, Polec understands the magnifying glass will be over him for much of 2019, but is embracing everything that is thrown his way.

“I don’t quite feel the anticipation of North supporters just yet, but I’m sure I will as the months go by and when we start leading into games, I’ll probably get heavily scrutinised on my performances,” Polec told SEN.

“I’m definitely up for it though, and I’m looking forward to the challenge.

“All you can do is put your best foot forward at this time of year, and hopefully get the runs on the board and prove yourself out on the track.”

There’s been no easing into things for Polec and his new teammates, with the full squad nearing the end of their first official week back.

The group have already sweated through blistering heat on Monday, and combated the wet and windy conditions on Tuesday.

However according to Polec, it will take more than some unique weather conditions to get this group down.

“We’ve trained pretty hard over the past couple of days, so I think our pre-season is going to be very hard and very physical, but we’re up for the challenge,” Polec said.

“It’s a great club.

“I’ve just liked how much (the group) is willing to learn and how much it is wanting to improve its offensive side of the game because its defence is so strong.

“They’ve proven a lot of people wrong over the past couple of years with where they sit, but I think there’s a lot of improvement in the side and as players start to develop and learn new traits of the game, we can all improve.

“North fans should be excited.”

Listen to Jared Polec's full interview here: