The whole Dragons squad is now back in pre season training being put through their paces by new fitness and conditioning coach Paul Bunce. The squad officially reported back for training on June 24th but those players who had been involved in summer tours (Ian Gough, Andrew Hall, Aled Thomas, Jamie Ringer, Nathan Brew, Rhys Thomas and Luke Charteris) were given time off to have a holiday and relax. However, with their holiday’s over they all reported in for training today (Monday.) The only players who have not joined the squad are Mike Hercus and Paul Emerick as they are still involved with their national team the USA.
Pre season training is designed to prepare the players for the rigours of the season ahead and provide them with a sound fitness base. At present the Dragons are doing gym and weight based work with the odd rugby session, more rugby skills work will be integrated over the forthcoming weeks. Once a week the Dragons head to Aberavon beach for fitness work on the sand and they finish the session with a swim in the sea – not for the faint hearted!!
Speaking on pre season training Paul Bunce commented, “The effort of all the boys has been very high and all players are warming to the idea of getting in shape for the 2006/07 season. The players are physically in good shape and will only get better as time goes on. There is a long-term emphasis on strength and the intensity and hard work ethic they have displayed has been outstanding at times. The aim of pre season is to establish a good fitness base that will last throughout the season and different players have different needs, some need to gain size to compete at today’s level while others need to work on power. We have had a short turnaround due to the extension of last season with the play off game so it has been crucial that we focus on the areas of need and on quality. Pre season is all about establishing professional standards, work ethic and recovery as well as all the practices associated with being a top level rugby player.”
