Anthony Rocca will use his brothers’ finals experience in the American National Football League as a launching pad for the 2009 season.

Speaking with collingwoodfc.com.au after training on Monday, Rocca was disappointed his brother, Saverio, won’t be playing in the Super Bowl but believes his close run at the championship will serve as a stepping stone for his own success this year.

“It was tough to watch the team lose in the circumstances that they did,” Rocca said.

“It was a great run to get where they did and I was proud of Sav’s performance all year.

“After watching his run to a premiership fall short this year, it’s now my turn to take it one step further.”

Rocca hasn't played a game after he injured his foot in round 13 last year.  His return to the forward line will serve as a key component to Collingwood's game plan this season.

Rocca's last two fully fit seasons, 2007 and 2006, saw him kick 54 and 55 goals respectively to lead the team.

He was training hard at Gosch’s Paddock on Monday, running 100 metre sprints and kicking 50 metre shots on goal.

“I can’t wait to get out there and make an impact.”

Collingwood’s chief of football, Geoff Walsh, believes that Rocca is not far away from playing in his first match of the 2009 season.

“His preseason is tracking along nicely,” Walsh told collingwoodfc.com.au.

“I would expect to see him play in the last few matches of the preseason competition in the lead up to the season.”

The main playing group worked out for over an hour in warm conditions. 

The team will hold an open training session at Gosch’s Paddock on Wednesday 21 January at 9:30am.



Dale Thomas delivers a handball to Martin Clarke.



Tristan Francis battles Tarkyn Lockyer for the mark.  Luke Rounds tries to handball under pressure by Barham.



Jaxson Barham looks on as Jaryd Blair tries to run down Dane Swan.