Shaun Higgins believes Braydon Preuss’ development ensures North’s ruck stocks are in good order.

Preuss, now in his third year at Arden Street, has steadily improved in his time at the club, capped off by an impressive showing against Sydney on Sunday.

“He’ll (Preuss) warrant a game if his form continues,” Higgins told media on Monday morning.

“It’s a really good story, two years ago, (he was) not playing a lot of footy at all.

“His pre-season’s been really good, he’s worked hard, he’s always doing the extras.

“It’s great reward for him to play the way he did yesterday and also is encouraging for us if something happens to Goldy (Todd Goldstein), we’ve got a ready-made replacement for him.”

Higgins also singled out the performance of former Bulldog, Nathan Hrovat.

Hrovat’s performance was further proof of what Higgins saw in their time together in red, white and blue.

“I spent some time with him (Hrovat) at the Bulldogs and was really excited when we (North) got him because I thought when he was drafted he was one of the best young guys going around down there.

“He was really good in the intra-clubs and it was good for him to get some reward yesterday. I think he’s going to play a really important part for us this season.”

A return to North’s spiritual home at Arden St is only a matter of days away and with a sell-out crowd expected, everyone at the club is keenly anticipating Sunday’s clash against Hawthorn.

“It’s exciting to be involved in the first game (at Arden Street) for so long,” North’s number four said.

“For the supporters as well, there’ll be a lot of memories for a lot of people down there, and also hopefully a really good hit-out against some quality opposition for us.”

After the Arden Street match, North will travel to Tasmania for the yearly Australia Post AFL Community Camp.

According to Higgins, the players can’t wait to again visit their home away from home.

“It’s exciting for the boys to get down there,” Higgins said at Spirit of Tasmania this morning.

“Obviously with the relationship (with Spirit of Tasmania) and we’re playing games, it’s a good opportunity this year to kick start that.”

The club will also host a ‘Huddle Showcase’ in Devonport next week, highlighting the work of the club’s not-for-profit arm.

“Thanks to the Spirit of Tasmania and their funding, we’re able to take The Huddle down to Tasmania,” Higgins added.

“It’s another opportunity to engage the community along with school visits, clinics and also playing down there.”