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Sean Darcy opens up on improved fitness and Rory Lobb’s near-exit at Fremantle Dockers

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Eliza ReillyThe West Australian
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Sean Darcy after Freo’s morning of time trials on Monday.
Camera IconSean Darcy after Freo’s morning of time trials on Monday. Credit: Iain Gillespie/The West Australian

Fremantle ruckman Sean Darcy has declared Rory Lobb a big part of the Dockers’ 2022 plans despite the ruck/forward attempting a botched move back to Greater Western Sydney in the trade period.

Lobb, who has two years to run on his Fremantle contract, was determined to join the Giants in the off-season but ultimately the return never came to fruition, with GWS unable to produce a deal to satisfy the Dockers.

Despite almost losing his ruck partner, Darcy said Lobb’s attempted trade was “behind us” and he’d spoken to the 28-year old to clear the air.

“I’ve had a little chat with Lobby,” Darcy said.

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“That’s the day and age we live in football now and players are allowed to explore interest they have from other teams.

“Lobby is really committed and he’s looking good at the moment.

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“He just wants to get into training and games. It’s all behind us as a playing group. We’re excited for the year ahead and he’s a part of it.

“As a playing group we forget about it pretty quickly once trade period is over, we move on pretty quickly.”

Lobb was part of a big group of five-plus year Dockers who were welcomed back to pre-season with four one kilometre time trials.

Rory Lobb feels the burn.
Camera IconRory Lobb feels the burn. Credit: Iain Gillespie/The West Australian

The Swan Districts product looks to have returned in excellent shape, finishing around the middle of the pack for each run in his first official venture back to the club since a turbulent off-season.

Darcy also beat his previous times and is benefitting from an injury-free pre-season.

But there’s always room for improvement - even if you’re the reigning Doig Medallist.

“This year I think I’m a lot fitter than I was last year,” he said.

“I want to get fitter. Last year I had a couple knocks in pre-season and didn’t get to train as much as I wanted to.

“This year has been about getting a bit lighter and a bit fitter and being able to run a lot better.

“I did every session in off-season which you really want do.”

Fremantle captain Nat Fyfe was also back on deck after two off-season shoulder surgeries.

“I’ve called him a couple times in the off-season to see how he’s going,” Darcy said.

“The last progress was he’s going really well. He’s back running and trying to build some strength back into that shoulder.

“He’s feeling really good. Pre-season is a bit hard when you’re in rehab, you feel isolated but he’s been good.”

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