In an official capacity, George Horlin-Smith has only been with the SUNS for three days.

But that doesn’t count the two weeks he’s spent ducking in and out of the facilities, building relationships and getting to know his new teammates and coaches. 

He says it’s to help with knowing names on day one, but it’s much more than that.

It’s a trait which he demonstrated in his years at Geelong - the sort of character which saw him win the “Best Clubman” award at the Cats’ best and fairest.

But while Horlin-Smith’s character certainly adds to the club’s culture, he says there’s also a lot the club can give him in return.

“It’s a playing group that really want to learn and get better,” Horlin-Smith told SUNS TV.

“I’m in that position too that I want to learn from the players and it seems like everyone’s really in it together. 

“We want to help each other and improve as a group.” 

Horlin-Smith has made an immediate impression at the club and says his new teammates, including an old friend, have been quick to make him feel welcome. 

“A lot of the boys have been really inclusive,” Horlin-Smith said.

“I’ve known Sammy Day for quite a while so I spent a little bit of time with him over the last couple of weeks to get to know the place a little bit better and he’s been a great help.

“I was (living) with Sammy for a little bit and I’ve since just moved into Palm Beach so it seems like a really nice part of the world which is good.” 

There’s a long way until Round 1 in 2019, but Horlin-Smith is relishing the opportunity to set himself up for a big season ahead, starting with a productive pre-season.

“Obviously stay healthy is the number one goal throughout pre-season to make sure you can complete as many sessions as possible,” he said.

“But with that I really need to get to know the game plan inside and out and make sure that I can bring something to the group. 

I’m not sure where I’ll fit within the system but (I want to be) the consistent player that wants to help their teammates.”