The Crows emerged as a flag threat last year after a strong finish to the home and away season, but failed to progress past the second week of September after going down to Collingwood in a thrilling semi-final.
Adelaide has made the top eight every year since Neil Craig took over as senior coach in 2005 and Hart said the club was now ready to capitalise on a decade of unrewarded effort.
“With the group we’re getting together it’s probably time to start pushing the top four now,” Hart told afl.com.au.
“Last year was pretty good and we were getting closer, but we only beat one top-four side and that was [Collingwood] in round one.
“Now, with a good pre-season and some talent around it’s time to start challenging the top four and that’s where we’re aiming to go.”
The Crows will kick off their 2010 campaign in a pre-season Showdown against Port Adelaide at AAMI Stadium on February 13.
Nathan van Berlo (back), Jason Porplyzia (pelvis), Brad Symes (knee) and Brad Moran (knee) will all miss the club’s NAB Cup opener, but there will still be plenty of competition for spots.
Forward Taylor Walker and gutsy onballer Rory Sloane have both impressed over the summer and are considered certain starters, while Nathan Bock will be looking to regain some much needed fitness after missing the last six games of ‘09’.
Hart said the club was likely to select the best available team for the grudge match with Port Adelaide.
“We’re developing a lot of depth now and the NAB Cup is a good opportunity for guys to either cement their place or put their name up in front of the coaches,” he said.
“If Taylor and Rory keep training well they’re going to demand to be picked, so something’s going to give and it might be [at the expense of] someone who’s already established in the side.”
