GEELONG star Tom Hawkins kicked just three goals in last year's finals series after being hampered by a chronic back problem.
But the key forward has fought his way back into peak condition this year.
And after booting a career-high seven goals against the Brisbane Lions, he is confident that he will have far greater impact in this year's finals, which begin when the Cats take on Hawthorn at the MCG on Friday night.
Speaking after the 62-point win over the Lions, Hawkins said he felt a great deal "physically better" than last year.
"Physically, I feel good," he added. "I'm more confident in what I'm able to do.
"I feel like I've got myself ready for a finals series."
Cats coach Chris Scott is delighted that he will have a fully fit Hawkins at his disposal this September.
"He's been really good this year," Scott said. "His back issues are behind him and he's in really good form.
"Even this year when he hasn't played all that well, he's still been a handful for the opposition.
"I thought last week (against Hawthorn) was a pretty good example. Tom didn't have his best game, but he kicked three.
"He does draw the opposition defence, and he does open the game up for our midfielders to get forward and our small forwards to contribute on the scoreboard as well."
So can a fit Hawkins haul the Cats all the way to the last game of the season?
"It's a bit simplistic to say we were one kick away from a Grand Final last year with Tom pretty lame, so this year he's a dominant player and that will make all the difference," Scott said.
As for this week, Hawkins can't wait to take on the Hawks in another massive game.
"We back ourselves, if we're playing at our best, to beat most sides," he said.
"So it's going to be a great contest."
Twitter: @AFL_AdamMcNicol
