The members of the DRFC reconvened in Hanover last week for pre-season training camp. Nearly 40 players completed their first week of camp this weekend, rounding out a strong initial showing from all classes. The boys have been putting in shifts on the pitch, in the weight room and in the film room in preparation for another big season for the Club.
This week started on Sunday evening with a meeting to overview the rest of the week. Monday saw the players run a Bronco (endurance test), and a 20-meter and 40-meter spring for testing. Two-a-day sessions continued through Wednesday and on Thursday there was a rest with only one practice in the afternoon. Friday was back to two practices, but Saturday had just a morning session. The team lifted in Levrone on Tuesday and Thursday mornings. There was a much-rumored Sunday morning session, but when the players showed up, there were pleasantly surprised to hear that they were going paintball shooting instead which was a great team-building activity.
New team trainer Mike Derosier and coach/strength intern Hamish McCallion of New Zealand made their first appearances at Brophy this week. Fortunately, Mike did not have to deal with many injuries, but Hamish got right into the swing of thing by leading stretches, coaching the backs, and helping lead team lifts.
Pre-season training weeks and matches have historically provided the DRFC with a strong base moving into regular season play, and the bar has only been set higher with last year's performances. The boys are looking forward to the exciting road ahead, especially as the Class of 2019, led by Struan Coleman (Captain), Jack Badenhausen (Co-Captain) Fuller Winton (Co-Captain), embark on their penultimate year with the Club and are on the hunt to leave their mark.