The key defender’s return to the North Melbourne side for the practice match against Hawthorn will be met with open arms.
“He adds experience and knowledge,” assistant coach Shane Watson told NMFC.com.au on Friday.
"He knows the system back to front and with Scott Thompson and Shaun Atley out (this week) he's going to be crucial to help develop the young guys."
Promising form for Werribee in his first game for the year warranted Grima's call-up, and the chance to gain valuable match practice in the final hit-out before Round 1.
While he'll be aiming to help youngsters like Taylor Hine and Ayden Kennedy feel comfortable in defence, Grima will have a tough task himself.
"He'll probably take one of Buddy (Lance Franklin) or (Jarryd) Roughead," Watson added.
"He'll likely be the last line defender (against Hawthorn), so he'll be the most crucial guy out there in terms of instructing the younger guys in what to do and where to go."
Grima’s availability is vital ahead of the home and away season, particularly as the Kangaroos hope to restrict opposition teams hurting them on the scoreboard.
It's an area the coaching staff is determined to rectify.
"I think we've put a few things in place that should help that this year. Especially last year we were able to score quite heavily but we haven't always been able to stop the opposition forwards from kicking goals.
"It's about training the defenders a certain way and making sure they have an understanding of who the right match-ups are…. and if they're not aware of that then they're able to communicate with each other, see things quicker and act quicker."
Watson says the club’s match committee is spoilt for choice with close to a full squad to choose from.
"In terms of defenders and our list in general, I think everyone on our list except the first-year players actually played NAB Cup or will have after this week. Everyone's been given a decent opportunity to put their case forward."
