Essendon’s returning players will open the AFL pre-season with a blockbuster match against arch-rivals Collingwood at Etihad Stadium.
The Bombers will play the Magpies on February 16 to start the JLT Community Series, with each team having three matches spread over four weekends.
North Melbourne’s Arden St home will host an AFL match for the first time since 1985, when they play Hawthorn on February 26.