With both grades shifting up in 2014 the Griffins returned to the track for Pre-Pre Season in the increasing warmth of late November. Numbers were impressive from the outset with 25 plus an average in attendance. A huge amount of work was put in by all and the improvement in base fitness of the group was evident after a few weeks. The assistance of Steve ‘Squirtman’ was as appreciated as the Indian File was loathed but the mood never faltered. Plenty of new faces added to the pulse with the likes of Tom ‘Lenny’ Wood leading the way and big Tristo showing plenty of starch.
Pre-Season proper began on the 14th of Jan and our numbers were bumping from day one. As much as the lads hated the time trials and the ladder running the endeavor to progress and improve was clear and the positivity from within the group was incredible. The lads pushed each other every step of the way through the first four weeks and set a great base to build into the structural work that was to follow.
Over the next 8 weeks we revived some old drills and incorporated some new with a view to building on our game plan of fast, instinctive ball movement and hard running. With South Oval out of action our capacity to work on expansive drills was limited with us generally being confined to a single Soccer field, but the silver lining was our forced focus on our stoppage structure and contested football which has hardened the bodies and improved some deficiencies in tackling techniques.
Jono Dean made his intentions clear by tagging Chasto all summer and he’s narrowed the gap appreciably on our little bus driver! Brent ‘Risky Riskington’ Ritchie has embraced the challenge of the shift up, and at 36 is as fit as he’s ever been. His chat is still heinous. Rory Jay has improved out of sight, particularly in his ruck work and is showing he’s ready to take a step up this year. Sam ‘Frenchy’ Le Page has bulked up to a solid 62kgs in preparation for his tagging responsibilities and the evergreen Chris Smith is mustard for another tilt. There were whispers that he may have even handballed during one of the drills but it is yet to be confirmed.
A few injuries to some key players has meant some limited preparations but the bulk of the group is fit and firing and ready to burst into 2014 in true Griffin style and show AFL Canberra that we’re up for the challenge.
I encourage every Griffin, past and present to make the effort to get down and support our guys and girls in 2014.
Last Modified on 16/10/2014 15:18