Speaking to Kevin Bartlett on SEN radio this morning, Mackie admitted that the playing group have put their heads down and bums up coming into 2013 after a disappointing end to 2012.
“It gets pretty addictive, that feeling of getting to the top.
“Everything that comes with it, it’s an amazing feeling.
“For those that have been there, it’s no surprise you want to go back, that’s what drives us. “
Mackie said the strong belief within the group is something that has been built up over time after some memorable comebacks.
“We have earned the right to have the reputation as the team who is able to come back.
“We don’t want to be in situations where that’s the case but we never feel like we’re out of the game.
“It’s something we’re all proud of.”
Mackie admitted this week will be a challenge with the Swans proving their worth last week against the Kangaroos.
“They are a mature bodied side.
“It shows the work they must do from Monday to Friday, that’s where premierships are won.
“They have everyone’s respect in the competition and that’s a credit to them, it’s through continual good performance.”
With the Cats only having played two games at the SCG since 2005, the ground will be another challenge to overcome.
“At the SCG last year we came back to lose by only a goal, we were down and managed to get back into it.
“We have a lot of respect for them (Sydney) as a footy side and as a club.
“They’ve done some great things so it’s going to be a really good test as to where we’re at and probably a good test as to where they’re at.”
Mackie also talked up the ability and work rate of teammate, Mark Blicavs, a player who is set to excite Cats fans this season.
“He is always asking questions and always wanting to learn, coming from a fair way back, he’s picked it up so quickly.
“Late in games because he is so fit he is finding some free ball and really getting involved, he’s been really crucial for us.
“He’s played a really good role while we’ve been deprived of other ruckman.”
