Nick Malceski’s first four games this season are stark contrast to his first four of 2015.

This time last year, the SUNS were winless and the 2014 All Australian was sidelined with a persistent knee complaint, having averaged just 15.2 disposals at 60.7% efficiency in his opening quartet of games.

Fast-forward 12 months and the SUNS are 3-1 and ‘Mal’ is averaging 19.5 disposals at 70.5% efficiency, enjoying his time up the ground on a wing.

By Malceski’s own admission, his form has greatly improved in season 2016.

“(My form is) better than last year, not hard to do,” Malceski told SUNS TV.

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“I’m looking to improve each week and obviously playing a different role on the wing so I’m really enjoying my time out there.”

The former Swan has been a beneficiary of a full pre-season under new Elite Performance Director Justin Cordy.

An increased level of confidence in his durability is a key factor that has enabled Malceski to be among the SUNS’ best the last two weeks.

“I’ve done a full pre-season, haven’t missed a beat,” he said.

“A lot of extra leg weights and feeling really strong and confident.”

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The 31-year-old has witnessed a complete shift in the club’s cultures and standards since his arrival in late 2014 with the SUNS well placed to succeed in the imminent future.

“(We’re) really on the right path,” he said.

“I think everyone’s buying into what we want to stand for and we’ve just got to bring it each week and make sure we’re doing the right things around the club to succeed.”