Storm fullback Billy Slater says the competition for spots in Craig Bellamy's starting line-up is heating up as Round 1 fast approaches.
Melbourne will take on Wests Tigers at Sunshine Coast Stadium in a trial match on Saturday night, with a host of young talent looking to impress Craig Bellamy.
"We've got a lot of our younger guys playing and a lot of people playing for spots - it should be an entertaining game," Slater said.
"We took a young and inexperienced side over to Auckland last weekend and we performed really well.
"It's a very competitive squad, we've got some good young halves on show - they should perform really well. Also we've got some key players playing as well, it's very competitive for spots, especially in the forwards so everyone will be pushing for spots for Round 1."
Slater and Melbourne Storm teammates hosted a kids clinic at Sunshine Coast Stadium on Friday afternoon before the Club's open training session for local fans. The fullback explained the importance of getting out into the community.
"Our association with the Sunshine Coast, our academy is based on the Sunshine Coast. It is important to bring the whole squad up and get out into the community," Slater.
"We've got plenty of kids here today and it's a big game for us tomorrow night."
