We have finally reached the conclusion of the 14 week preseason; a preseason that has seen a refreshing move away from athletic fitness, to rugby game focus. Last year we had only 25 rugby focused sessions; this year we have complete 65 before the first trial in Darwin. Many players have admitted that in hindsight they felt under prepared for the start of season in past years. This year we have had the pig skin firmly in our hands and rugby brain getting developed for months.
We welcome 13 new players into the squad, including a completely remodelled backline. Game simulation training has been essential to rapidly developing team cohesion and combinations. With largely a new coaching team, we have all been the new guy in some way. Past reputations are a contributing factor, but the coach and your teammates can only ultimately judge you on what you consistently bring to the table. While preseason is all about refining fitness and skills, for us the focus has also been on earning respect and setting the highest standards in all aspects of the job.
I am starting my 11th Super Rugby season and this one has required a unique approach as I now have the interests of 35 squad members in mind on a daily basis. Being named captain at the end of last season allowed me to start the mental transition from the day that Michael Foley was named. While I am experienced at getting my body and mind season ready, stepping up to help every squad member get battle ready for the first game has been new. Working with the coaches to turn 35 individuals into one team with a common goal has been a challenge and one I have enjoyed.
Being in Perth for my first preseason in 4 years has been perfect timing. I have welcomed the opportunity to develop a close working relationship with Foley, and the other members of the coaching team, that would not have been possible if I’d been back only 3 weeks. It has also allowed me to be here to integrate new players into the Force and relaunch a completely new culture at the Force for every squad member. Things needed to change at the club and I am confident that we have created strong foundations for the development of a new way forward. This cultural shift and new style of rugby is a tangible change, not media rhetoric.
As we line up for the first game of the season many things have changed, not only rugby related but also personality wise. Sam Wykes has grown another foot having grown what he calls a beard and is barking orders from the seat once occupied by Sharpie; Kieran Longbottom has secured his own room due to the inconceivable noises that come out of his body throughout the night. All the new personnel must find their place; I even had the pleasure of moving Chook Fowler out of my seat that I claimed 8 seasons ago (4 back on the left). You always know it is the start of the season as Toby ‘Crush’ Lynn puts away the scissors and shaver as he goes on a 16 week unclipped phase. While all the backs do the opposite, as they finesse their style with a keen awareness that the televised games start now.
Many Sea of Blue favourites are ready to entertain and I am confident that many new faces will become new game day heroes to young and old. The long awaited season is finally here on Friday and it can’t come soon enough for the Force players and fans alike.
