Lynch enters his third season on the Magpies’ rookie list in a good space after overcoming a troublesome shoulder issue which plagued him for most of last season.

With the likes of All-Australian Brodie Grundy, Mason Cox and Jordan Roughead the club’s main ruck options, the 20-year-old knows there’s fierce competition for spots.

“The body has been really good to me so far, so it’s about getting some form together and trying to get a bit of consistency to push the seniors,” Lynch said.

“There’s always things I’ve got to work on, but they’re two good role models to really try and base my game off with Brodie in the ruck and Mason up forward.

“I want to try take pieces out of their games and use it in a way to fit my traits.

“I’ve mainly been in the ruck and have tried to use my running ability to push forward and outwork my opponent.

“I really owe them (Collingwood) for the opportunity, it’s now about taking that opportunity and using it to my advantage to try get a game.”

Brody Mihocek experienced a breakout season in 2018.

The rookie managed 16 games, including the entire finals series, booting 29 goals after joining the Magpies from VFL outfit Port Melbourne.

Despite being shown faith with a two-year contract extension, he by no means believes his place in the side in cemented.

“Everyone who is training now wants to be in that team (in round one) and obviously I got some experience last year,” Mihocek said.

“I still pinch myself, I’ve been in just over a year and there’s still new things I’m doing every week.

“I’m still learning the training schedules and how hard it actually is, but I'm enjoying every moment.

“I’m trying to get the new draftees involved because being there the previous year, I know how nerve-wracking it was.

“To get two more years and know I’m definitely here for this season and next season is a great feeling.

“I’m proud of what I’ve done and how it’s all panned out.”

Related:

Bright’s Ben Reid is one of those players competing for Mihocek’s spot as a tall forward.

“It’s better competition when he’s fit and firing,” he said

“Hopefully everyone is fit and we have a full team to select from.”

Mihocek said the club’s profile off-season recruit Dayne Beams – who returned from Brisbane, has also made an impact.

“His experience says it all. I think he’s on lighter duties, but he’ll be back fit and firing,” Mihocek said.

“With all the experience, even Jordan Roughead coming in and our new draftees are fitting in really well.”

Myrtleford product Jack Crisp is tracking well after off-season hip surgery.

“He’s getting into a bit of running and touch, so he’s well on the way to coming back,” Lynch added.