Big Cat Mitch Clark has few expectations ahead of his first game in more than 12 months this weekend, but that’s doing nothing to contain his excitement.

The 28-year-old key forward will line up for VFL Cats against Sandringham on Sunday afternoon at Simonds Stadium and says this first step is reward for staying the course.

“It means a lot,” Clark said.

“Just to get back and have that reward of all the hard work I’ve put in during this rehab process. It’s been just over 12 months now since I [last] played so no doubt I’ll be a bit rusty but I’m just going in there with little expectations of playing well and just getting out there and feeling like a footballer again.”

Clark was in impressive condition prior to Christmas last year and responding well to the meticulous training program put together by Geelong’s medical staff.

But a troublesome calf injury reared its head in January, followed by another tear a month later which effectively put to bed any chance of playing in round one on Easter Monday against Hawthorn.

Despite the setback, Clark is still confident he can contribute at senior level for the Cats in 2016.

“That’s the big goal – to get back and play with the senior group,” Clark said.

“Unfortunately the guys have had a bit of a flat couple of weeks but I’m sure we’ll work hard during the week and get back on the horse this Saturday against GWS.”

Off the field, Clark feels he is in a good place. He and his partner Sam recently announced they are expecting twins later this year and the former Lion and Demon says though life has not been without its troubles, this is a new chapter he can’t wait to unfold.

“I have had a couple of dark periods here and there through rehab but … the club’s been great in giving me support and the medical staff and the boys and the coaching group,” Clark said.

“Having twins on the way coming in September, that’s put footy into a bit of perspective I guess and although footy is my first love, I suppose, and the thing I love doing most, I’m really looking forward to that part of life that’s coming up.”