Melbourne recruit Jack Billings is ready to have an impact at AFL level ahead with a fresh start in the red and blue after several injury-hit seasons with the Saints.
Billings was traded to the Demons during the recent off-season, a decade on from St Kilda selecting the Kew junior with the third overall pick.
The 28-year-old's 2023 campaign was delayed due to a fractured leg sustained in the pre-season, with Billings dealing with a broken thumb and a hamstring issue to further hamper his final season at Moorabbin.
Despite being contracted with St Kilda, the midfield-forward hybrid sought a move away from the club in the hope of a fresh start, landing at Melbourne after the Demons bid farewell to multiple members of their own midfield unit.
Ready to take on a similar role with Melbourne, Billings said he's looking forward to the next chapter in his career after playing just 11 games since the end of 2021.
"It's been a tough couple of years with my body. It's frustrating as I haven't been playing much footy at all," Billings told club media.
"Towards the back end of the season I was able to get myself right and injury free and I really wanted to take that into the off-season and get a full off-season under my belt.
"That's probably my main goal over pre-season, to do all the work and go from there.
"Hopefully I can just play my part, use the ball well. Whether that's up forward or through the midfield, I'll look to use my smarts and decision-making, and win some games."
Billings has reunited with former St Kilda coach Alan Richardson, who's first pre-season at the Saints came in the same year Billings joined the club.
Richardson, now the Demons' football boss, is among the familiar faces at Melbourne that has made the transition easier for Billings.
The 155-gamer said he's "absolutely rapt" to be part of his new side after a decade with St Kilda.
"Being at one place for 10 years, it's a long time," he said.
"You form a lot of relationships and close friendships. It's definitely a change, but something I was really looking forward to.
"The boys have been great, I've known a few of them for a long time which has made it easier, but also playing against them over a number of years.
"I can't speak highly enough of the group and how good it's been. I'm absolutely rapt."
Billings' first game in the red and blue could come in the opening game of the season against Sydney at the SCG on Thursday, March 7, while a meeting with his old club is scheduled for Round 11 at the MCG.
