Quite possibly the biggest challenge to footy in Canada is the unco-operative weather patterns of the northern hemisphere. As clubs in Australia train in ideal fair weather conditions, clubs in Canada have had to adapt and find unique ways to prepare for their May start dates.
The Ottawa Swans are more than a month into their winter pre-season, with the club taking part in conditioning exercises in the pool and on land, strength training in the gym and the occassional indoor sessions in domes around the city. As the OAFL regular season quickly approaches, the team is ensuring it does all it can to have players in shape and ready for the opening bounce. The Swan's new Assistant Coach, Marc Magierowicz stressed this importance; "With our club continuing to grow and the introduction of so many new players, its important for all to get their hands on the footy as much as possible; get accustomed to handiling the ball and being able to move it efficiently around the ground."
Lending to this strategy, the club is also continuing with their highly successful Metro League, which allows all players a chance to get back into the flow of the game. Swans' President and league organizer, Benjamin Birt, is once again very satisified with this year's competition. "We've worked hard this year to improve on a successful first season. Ironing out a few kinks in the structure and rules has led to an excellent second season. With players helping out and engaging with new recruits, the club comes together very quickly, while introducing a bit of competition as well."
As the pre-season competitions begin to wrap-up, the excitement for regular season is palpable both in Australia and Canada...regardless of the weather forecast.
Last Modified on 07/03/2012 01:42