HE EXPECTS to be feeling a few more nerves than usual, but Dayne Beams can't wait to take on his old Collingwood teammates in round one next season.
The 24-year-old has completed a week of training with his new Brisbane Lions teammates, but already has an eye on the opening fixture in 2015.
Beams hoped the Gabba would be sold out for the April 4 clash, and said he was keen to get one up on his former teammates.
"Round one is always a big build up because it's the first game of the season, and probably even more so this year for me playing against all my old teammates, but it's definitely something I'm looking forward to," Beams said on Friday.
"I love a challenge.
"For me there'll probably be a few more nerves, but I'm just really looking forward to the opportunity of playing against the old teammates. It should be fun."
Beams was arguably the biggest name to move during last month's NAB AFL Trade Period, leaving the Magpies after six seasons to return to his home state and play alongside younger brother Claye.
The 2010 premiership star says he feels no added pressure coming as a marquee signing, believing his years at the heavily scrutinised and supported Magpies would hold him in good stead.
He said the Lions had an exciting group of talented younger players, and mixed with the experience brought in during the off-season, which includes Allen Christensen and Mitch Robinson, there should be no limit on what they could achieve in 2015.
Beams said playing alongside his brother had always been a dream, but not something he always thought would eventuate.
"As juniors, Claye was a year-and-a-half younger than me so we never really played together there either," he said.
"When I started my AFL career, Claye wasn't even playing footy again, so there wasn't a thought there.
"With me playing, it reignited that spark for him and he started playing. Me being around, hopefully he can learn a few things and I can share some experience with him."
Claye said it was only just sinking in he'd be playing alongside Dayne.
"He's my best mate and to have the opportunity to play with my best mate will be something pretty special," he said.
"You see the Scott brothers and boys like that were able to do things together and they'll be able to share that for the rest of their lives, so hopefully me and Dayne can do the same."
