On the Australia Day weekend, the SUFC held a joint training session for all three programs: Men’s, Colts, and Women’s. The event took place at the Wanda Sand Dunes, a challenging and iconic location that has become a tradition for the club.
Participation and Intensity
This year’s session saw a higher participation rate than last year, with a significant increase in players attending. The training session was designed to be more grueling than in previous years, pushing the players to their limits. The program consisted of extensive dune runs as a club at the beginning and end, with a skills and contact block in the middle tailored to each program.
Player Response
Despite the intense nature of the session, the players worked hard and demonstrated a strong camaraderie. At the end of the session, the players were exhausted but satisfied with the challenging workout and the opportunity to bond with their teammates.
Highlights
The Australia Day training session was a resounding success, with several highlights worth noting:
- Cohesive Nature of the Programs: The joint training session brought together players from all three programs, fostering a sense of unity and teamwork. The players worked together seamlessly, demonstrating a strong sense of camaraderie and shared purpose.
- Never Give-In Attitude: The players showed a remarkable never-give-in attitude, pushing themselves to their limits and beyond. This mindset is a testament to the club’s values and will serve the players well throughout the season.
Standouts:
Grade – Nathaniel Panozzo & Benjy Joseland
Women – Joma Rubuti & Tess Staines
Colts – Ned Ericson & Isamu Naito
- Social Aspect: The session concluded with a breakfast and lunch gathering at the Tagg’s Mavericks Chicken Shop, where the Colts and Grade players came together to refuel and socialise. This event’s social aspect helped strengthen bonds between teammates and created a sense of community within the club.
Conclusion
The Sydney University Rugby Union Club’s Australia Day training session was a huge success, with high participation rates, intense training, and strong camaraderie among players, setting a positive tone for the upcoming season.
Thank you to all the players, coaches, volunteers, and Andrew Fraser for some classic photos that captured the day’s sentiment.