LEADER Ed Curnow said Carlton’s pre-season camp on the Sunshine Coast would provide the chance for the Blues to grow on and off the field.

Arriving for the five-day camp earlier today, Curnow said the upcoming week would hopefully be a gruelling yet rewarding one for the playing group.

As he tackles his ninth pre-season, Curnow said he was looking forward to the next generation increasing their standing at the Club and taking ownership of the future.

“We really want to develop competitive habits from the players and to see individuals grow and improve,” Curnow said.

“With that comes guys stepping up into leadership positions — guys like Jacob Weitering, Charlie Curnow and Harry McKay.

50 days to go until the boys are back in action



Here are a few of the best snaps from today's training.#BoundByBlue — Carlton FC (@CarltonFC) January 30, 2019

“We really want them to step up and take the Club forward this year and bring those guys like Zac Fisher, Sam Petrevski-Seton and Sam Walsh with them.

“I think we’ll get a lot of natural growth out of those guys with another year in the system.”

The hard-working midfielder has buoyed by the additions to his line this off-season, with the Club acquiring the likes of Will Setterfield and Sam Walsh via the trade and draft.

An impressed Curnow said he liked what he has seen so far from his younger teammates.

“Setterfield’s contested-ball work and hand balling skills under pressure has really impressed me — he’s also a great guy that has fit in really well,” Curnow said.

“The way Sam Walsh trains… He attacks every session with purpose and intensity and he’s won a lot of respect already.

Sunshine Coast, we're coming for you!



Come join us at our big open training session, next Wednesday

We'll be hitting the track from 9am at the Maroochydore Multi Sports Complex.



See you there! #BoundByBlue pic.twitter.com/8lCWd9oMFl — Carlton FC (@CarltonFC) January 29, 2019

“Those two players will add a lot to the group and the midfield, along with Matthew Kennedy and Sam Petrevski-Seton — they’ve had big pre-seasons and we’ll see a lot of natural improvement from them.”

Further to the on-field development, Curnow believed that the camaraderie and togetherness of the group would be stronger come the conclusion of the camp.

Despite the sun alluding the Sunshine Coast when the players arrived, he said there would be a lot of hard work to come.

“One of the best things about a camp is getting away and getting to know your teammates and coaches,” he said.

“We’re pumped to be back here — to train in some good weather, be on the coast and to get to jell and know the new, younger players in the group. You get to know the players with that little bit more depth.”