MENTAL freshness is a high priority for Winis Imbi in his inaugural season as Port Fairy coach.
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The newly-appointed mentor, who took the reins from Dan Nicholson in October, said a lengthy summer break would benefit his troops.
Port Fairy resumed its pre-season training on Monday.
Imbi said fitness - which has been driven by forward Tom Sullivan - was a key focus in the off-season.
"It's one of those things that players can take control of individually but it's about making sure they have the tools at their disposal," he said.
With recruits, we just want to add value to what's already here at the club.
- Winis Imbi
"That's where Tom has been great. He's given the boys the opportunity to do a few (sessions) in January. A few of the boys like that, a few like to do their own thing.
"Everyone is different with staying fresh. Some like to be around the club, touching the footballs and being around the boys while some enjoy the sun and keep fit their own way.
"We want to make sure we have a fine line between individual goals and the team goals and really maximise every player's enjoyment of the game."
The former Essendon and North Melbourne rookie, who has coached Heywood, North Gambier and Portland, said former mentor Nicholson had set a strong standard for player welfare.
"Dan always tried to make sure the players' bodies were right to go," Imbi said.
"He wanted to make sure they could handle the season physically. We're just trying to build on that."
Imbi revealed Port Fairy had strong player retention, with just one confirmed exit so far.
Veteran John Bell will remain in Geelong after a season commuting for Hampden league football.
"Player retention has been good. We've lost the likes of John but he's been travelling down but he'll stay up there for work commitments," Imbi said. "But otherwise most of our list has come back on."
Recruiting-wise, Port Fairy is working hard to bring in new talent.
Two-time Esam medallist Andy McMeel has signed on at Gardens Oval and Imbi is confident more will follow.
"We've got some people we've been speaking to who are yet to sign on," he told The Standard.
"With recruits, we just want to add value to what's already here. We'd love to bring some more people into the mix.
"We also want to grow talent from inside our club and build a strong culture and game style that is recognisable with our players."
The Seagulls, who crashed out of Hampden league finals against Warrnambool last season, is vying to snap a 62-year flag drought.
Port Fairy faces Hamilton Kangaroos in round one.
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