TALL TIMBER: Fremantle's ruck unit consists of Craig Moller, Zac Clarke, Aaron Sandilands, Jonathon Griffin and Jack Hannath. Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: PerthNow
FREMANTLE might be preparing for life after its dominant ruck giant, but Aaron Sandilands isn't going anywhere just yet.
Sandilands, 30 last month, recorded a personal best in a 3km time-trial this week to prove there's plenty of life yet in his 211cm frame.
The triple All-Australian hopes to continue his career beyond 2014 when his current contract expires.
"I'm contracted for the next two years and I'm feeling really good at the moment," he said.
"If the body keeps holding up, there's no reason why that would be the end of it."
Ahead of his 11th season in the AFL, Sandilands has been buoyed by his strong summer on the track and was "pretty happy" with his time-trial record.
"I've just been able to do a fair bit of work over the break and my running volumes are up, so there's no reason why I wouldn't have been able to put a good time in," he said.
"It's always good to be around the mark and running well, but there's nothing like match fitness. So there's an exciting month coming up and then games aren't that far around the corner."
Sandilands has missed 19 games over the past two seasons due to turf-toe problems, but is confident his size-18 feet won't give him further trouble.
"I've done all the rehab work on the feet, so I'm feeling really confident that they can hold up and get through a full season," he said.
"It's been disappointing to miss so much footy over the last two years. When you haven't been out there you really do miss it and realise how much you do love the game, so I'm really excited for the season to start."
The Dockers now boast the competition's biggest ruck brigade following the addition of Jack Hannath through the pre-season draft and Craig Moller to the rookie list.
The new pair join accomplished back-up big man Jon Griffin, who turns 27 tomorrow, and emerging 22-year-old Zac Clarke.
Sandilands says having a big group of ruckmen gives the club great depth and believes no matter how the game evolves tactically, ruckmen will always be crucial.
"Ruckmen play a hugely important role in the game. If you can get on top and get first use of the ball to your midfield it's a good advantage," he said.
"We're all at various stages of our careers, but it's great now that we've got five there.
"All these guys are good sizes and can step in and fill the role if need be when given the opportunity.
"We've got Jack who can come in and play straight away and we've got young Craig, who's going to be a longer-term prospect.
"But he's got a lot of talent and I'm really looking forward to working with him closely."
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