A large chunk of the Bombers’ defensive cartel departed through the off-season, which has allowed Lockhart, Jay Foon, Connor Young, Jack Avent, Jake Pearce, Connor Pearton and the like to grow and stand up to the plate.

“It is a lot different this year with coaching staff and personnel and it’s been really exciting,” Lockhart, a two-time TSL premiership player, said.

“I have been part of the leadership group for the past couple of years now, and vice-captain last year, and with a few older heads leaving I have taken my leadership with a couple of others to become leaders down there.”

A builder by day, Lockhart said defence had been and still is the cornerstone to North’s brand – “defend first and then attack”.

He said coach Tom Couch wants players to back themselves to take the game on.

Couch was full of praise for Lockhart leading to the undefeated club’s away bout with Devonport on Saturday night.

North are coming off the bye and are keen to tackle a six-week block with full force.

“The break came at a good time, it was a good three games and an opportunity to give the guys a break physically and mentally,” Couch said.

“We’re still trying to figure out what our best 22 looks like and it is about giving the guys an opportunity.

“They guys that played against Launceston have all put their hand up and showed they’re more than capable of playing at the level – things change week to week.”