For defender Mitch Hinge, pre-season isn’t just about working on his own game - it’s also a chance to reflect on the growth happening within the Crows’ backline.

As the coaches continue to explore different looks and roles across the summer, Hinge says the development of fellow defender Hugh Bond has been one of the most rewarding aspects of the pre-season so far.

And Hinge tipped Bond, who has played 12 games since making his debut in 2024, to be pushing his case for a regular call-up after impressing this summer.

“We’ve got Bondy who I am super proud of as a mate and a teammate, I’ve seen him grow from a youngster as an 18-year-old, and I think he’s really growing into a really strong player,” Hinge said.

“He’s so competitive, he’s so hard to play on, and I really feel like he’s developing that offensive side of his game, which to his credit, he’s put a lot of work in.

“I’m loving seeing that from him.”

Hinge, meanwhile, endured a delayed start to pre-season after injuring his ankle during the Crows’ semi-final loss to Hawthorn, resulting in the 27-year-old undergoing Syndesmosis surgery.

While his 2025 season ended in disappointment, Hinge said he was now fully fit and motivated to take his game - and the team’s - to another level this year.

“Obviously it (the end) was really disappointing,” Hinge said.

“I got subbed out against Collingwood which was disappointing personally, and then the next one against the Hawks, I felt like I actually started alright, and then hurting my ankle there.

“I missed probably about seven weeks where I wasn’t running on the legs, so I had a bit of a delayed start, but it was an opportunity to work on my strength, to work on different areas of my game.

“I still feel like compared to the last two or three pre-seasons, this is still the most I’ve ever done, so the body is feeling good and I’ve got full belief that I’ve only got more opportunities to grow and improve, so I am really excited to see what the year has for me.”

The Crows will, however, be without star youngster Dan Curtin when their 2026 campaign starts, as the utility recovers from surgery after dislocating his kneecap.

Hinge praised Curtin’s attitude following his injury and was confident he would attack his rehab well.

“His spirits are high,” Hinge said.

“Obviously at this time of the year, and especially with a young guy like Dan, showing so much promise, he’s been dominating on the track, he’s had a little bit of a setback, which is really disappointing.

“He’s such a well-natured kid… he’s such a lovel person, we love having him around, and he’s been back in the past couple of days, and it’s been great to see him.

“He brings a lot of energy and brings a smile - I feel like I’m smiling talking about him now - he’s an absolute ripper, and it’s really disappointing for him, but knowing him, and knowing he gets to work, he’ll be back in no time and tearing up the field soon.”