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While training continues unabated, the structure and focus has now shifted towards the field as the players prepare for the campaign. Fitness levels are higher than ever with the gruelling gym and running programme put in place, with field sessions now taking the main focus of their preparations.
“We’re still training really hard and while there is still quite a large conditioning element to our programme, we’re toning back on it and getting more into our game planning,” explains coach John Plumtree.
The heat has been relentless, although this week has been cooler. Still, Durban at this time of the year can be unbearable and plenty of sweat and tears have been shed in building the conditioning base required for a six month rugby campaign.
The Sharks coach is happy with the way things have gone, and the minimal disruptions to the team in terms of injuries is further cause for satisfaction.
“It’s good to have numbers out there, the boys are avoiding injuries, staying fit and looking really good. We have trials next week so we want the players to be reasonably organised for that.”
He also confirms that Willem Alberts has had his first run [on Tuesday] while Jean Deysel “Is improving his leg strength all the time so it’s positive news with him.”
The Sharks will not have an intensive preseason campaign in terms of match action, having an internal trial match and then hosting Boland before closing out their programme with a match against the EP Kings in Port Elizabeth.
On Friday 10 February, The Sharks play Boland at Mr Price KINGS PARK. Season ticket holders must present their season tickets for free entry. Suites will not open but suite-holders may come for free and sit in the stands (West lower and upper stands will be open) .
Those who wish to buy tickets may purchase them from The Sharks Ticket Office. Ticket sales will open on Wednesday 8 February – all unreserved – at R20 for adults and R10 for scholars.
