COLLINGWOOD co-captain Steph Chiocci has her eyes set firmly on Carlton ahead of their "refreshing" round one timeslot.

Playing on Sunday afternoon rather than in the traditional season-opener, the Pies and Blues will add another chapter to their storied rivalry that launched the NAB AFLW competition back in 2017.

It is a rivalry built on physical contests, banter and mutual respect.

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"It's always a tough game, it's always really hotly contested early, and it's an absolute ripper," Chiocci said of the battle.

This time around, however, inaugural Blue Alison Downie will be lining up in the black and white, filling the gap created by Sharni Norder's retirement.

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"I had the privilege of playing with her at Diamond Creek," Chiocci said of Downie.

"The girls absolutely love her, she works extremely hard, and I think she's got a bit of fire in her belly, especially coming up against her old team."

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Acknowledging Downie's long career in footy, Chiocci believes the recruit will only strengthen their first-class midfield, giving the likes of Brianna Davey, Jaimee Lambert and Britt Bonnici first use more often than not.

Chiocci also told fans to keep an eye on Tarni Brown as she comes into her second season. Thanks to her agility and drive, Brown offers the Pies more midfield balance.

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"Tarni's matured a little bit, and just the way she's moving at training, I think she's ready to take herself to another level. She just gets in there and does what she needs to do, and I think that gives us a breath of fresh air," she said.

Another recruit set to make some waves is key forward Sabrina Frederick.

Chiocci believes Frederick's addition to their forward setup will offer "a bit of reprieve" for the likes of Sophie Alexander and spearhead Chloe Molloy.

Sabrina Frederick is the new No.1 at Collingwood. Picture: Getty Images

After the club's season ended in preliminary final week against eventual premier Brisbane, Chiocci takes a balanced mindset into 2022.

"I'd be lying if I said it didn't hurt, it certainly didn't hurt at the time. I think it is true, there's that burning desire to go one step further, or at least have a crack at the Grand Final," said Chiocci.

"But at the end of the day, it's a fresh start."