Young and the 'old': Sam Walsh attempts to evade a tackle from Marc Murphy. All pictures: AFL Photos

EMERGING superstar Sam Walsh spent 2019 exciting Carlton fans with his on-field feats – fast forward to February, 2020, and the faithful have another reason to feel pumped about the Navy Blues' future: Walsh is ripped.

Carlton has started its pre-season camp on the Sunshine Coast with a sculpted Walsh unveiling a rippling six-pack on Monday.

Rising Star winner Sam Walsh looking ripped after a solid pre-season

The young midfielder averaged just over 25 possessions in an amazing first season and claimed the NAB AFL Rising Star award. Judging from all appearances, he looks set to take his game to another level in 2020.

And it's not just Carlton's youngster who have emerged this summer in splendid shape; evergreen veteran Kade Simpson is in immaculate condition ahead of his 18th season.

Kade Simpson trains ahead of his 18th AFL season

Ruckman Matthew Kreuzer said on Sunday that the mentality and character of the emerging youngsters had him full of faith about what's on the horizon for Carlton.

"You sit back as one of the older guys who has been around and seen a fair bit; you see how hungry these players are now," he said.

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"They've come in and they just want to work, work, work. They absorb everything and put it to use out on the track.

"They're really developed as young men now so I'm really looking forward to seeing what they can do this year."

Pick No.17 Brodie Kemp gets stuck into his first AFL pre-season

Check out some more photos from Carlton's pre-season training camp in Maroochydore below.

Liam Jones shows off his rig

Patrick Cripps calls for the ball during the pre-season training camp in Maroochydore

Jacob Weitering feels the heat

Ed Curnow only has eyes for the ball