JAY Schulz has always had a soft spot for left footers, and Karl Amon is no exception.

Matched with his blistering pace and versatility it’s easy to see the appeal, which has Schulz suggesting Amon is ready to prove himself after taking his game to another level this off-season.

“His running ability and awareness of where the ball’s going and how the game’s going have really impressed me so far this year,” Schulz said.

“(It’s) something that really has shown through, we knew he was a good runner last year but he’s taken it to a new level this year.”

Gray set for greater heights in 2015 - Schulz

Amon is yet to debut for the club after being selected in the 2013 National Draft, but Schulz is confident his elite running capacity will play a major role in making his mark in 2015.

“Those high half forward roles and those wing roles which require a lot of running and a lot of high speed running, he suits that really well and he has a beautiful outside left foot.

“I’d be very confident of him being able to come in and play a role really well for us.”

Another player looking to debut for the club this season is new recruit Paddy Ryder, who is set to have his first hit out for the club in Friday’s match simulation at Alberton Oval.

Schulz said Ryder’s presence has been exciting for the playing group, with the younger players relishing the chance to learn off of another senior player.

“He’s a fantastic talent and he can add so much to our group, which is something really exciting for everyone to look forward to

“He’s an extra guy that we get to work with and learn some things off of as well and he can learn a bit of us as well so it’s fantastic for our group.”

After three months of training together, Schulz said the players are looking forward to more match practice alongside Ryder as the season draws closer.

“We’ve been trying our best through all of pre season to get to know him and how he moves.

“Friday night is just going to be another great opportunity for that in more match simulation stuff.”

With the NAB Challenge also approaching, Schulz admitted he had a few more nerves than when preparing for a regular season game.

“Coming into pre season games is almost a little bit more nerve wracking than coming into the season proper because you haven’t played against anyone apart from your own teammates for so long.

“It’s a bit nerve wracking initially but it’s really exciting, you just want to get out there and get the first one underway and then get into the season and have a red hot crack.”