The Australian Open is over.

The summer of cricket has left Australia.

It’s time for football to return.

Be there when Collingwood begins its 2016 campaign with its annual intra-club practice match on Thursday 18 February.

And while supporters will be able to watch the players put their summer’s toil to the test, the players will also be available to sign autographs around the boundary line following the conclusion of the match.

The occasion marks the ideal opportunity for members and supporters to experience the club’s new Glasshouse facility.

VIDEO: Highlights of Collingwood's 2015 intra-club match.

The new Glasshouse Eatery will be open, serving a selection of pizzas, sandwiches and a barbeque, while a selection of food trucks will be available on site.

During breaks in the game there will also be face painting, giveaways, kids activities, membership and merchandise, so make sure you're there to soak up the full Collingwood experience!

The team from United Petroleum will also be on hand, allowing Collingwood members the chance to visit the marquee and sign up to receive their free United Club Rewards 4c discount card.

Those who sign up or show their existing card will receive a United football (while stocks last).


2016 Intra-Club Practice Match
Date: Thursday 18 February
Event begins: 6.00pm
The match will begin at 7.15pm and feature six fifteen-minute periods of play. For those who are keen to arrive early, the club’s VFL team will be training at Olympic Park from 5.30pm.

Autographs
Players will be available to sign autographs for fans around the boundary at the conclusion of the match. Signing times will be dependent on individual schedules and not all players may be available.

Food
The new Glasshouse Eatery will be open, serving a selection of pizzas, sandwiches and a barbeque. Food trucks on site will include Sliders on Tires, Pasta Face, Taco Truck, The Wicked Spud and Dutch Pancakes.

Parking
Limited parking is available over the river on Alexandra Avenue. There is also paid parking available in the Eastern Car Park Plaza next to Hisense Arena (Entrance D), however there are multiple events on in the precinct on this day so limited places remain for pre-booking only. Please click here to pre-book your parking. We strongly recommend the use of public transport to Olympic Park Oval.

Public transport
Public transport is the quickest and easiest way to get to and from an event at Melbourne & Olympic Parks. Trains, trams and buses operate frequently, dropping you right at the door of Australia’s premier sports and entertainment precinct. Please click here for more information.