Tom Hawkins expects to reap the benefits of his improved chemistry with forward-line partner Jeremy Cameron as Geelong prepare to launch their next AFL premiership assault.
The two Coleman medallists teamed up for the first time last year and were crucial to their side's success, combining for 101 goals as the Cats reached a preliminary final.
Hawkins kicked 62.37 while Cameron, who arrived from GWS in a high-profile trade deal, managed 39.16 despite repeated hamstring issues limiting him to 15 games.
The former Giants star suffered his first injury during the pre-season and had two more setbacks throughout the year, but has enjoyed a strong preparation for the 2022 campaign.
"It's been well documented that Jeremy had his issues last year with injuries and we had that through our whole list at certain periods," Hawkins said.
"It always takes a little bit of time to create chemistry and getting used to a player who plays the game very differently to me just takes time.
"But we've been able to train together (over summer) along with Esava (Ratugolea), Tyson Stengle and a range of other players as well.
"We look forward to the challenge that the season presents."
Geelong will again field one of the oldest teams in the competition this year as critics question their ability to continue challenging for the premiership.
It comes after a run of near misses in the form of four preliminary final defeats and one grand-final loss over the last six years.
But Hawkins doesn't see the Cats' collective age as a barrier, instead believing their ability to draw on experience will hold them in good stead.
"I don't know where we sit within the competition and that's what we're going to find out within the first few rounds," Hawkins said.
"We've had a wonderful pre-season but 17 other clubs say the same thing, so we'll find out once we start.
"But we're really confident that we've got the list to be able to not only compete but challenge the best sides in the competition."
Geelong open their season with the annual 'Country Festival' game against Essendon at the MCG.
