Paul Puopolo says the Hawks are making no excuses in their training despite a rain-drenched start to the Mooloolaba pre-season camp.
The players were welcomed to the Sunshine State with torrential conditions at their first training session on Friday.
But Puopolo said the group is taking an optimistic view of the situation.
“It’s a good opportunity for us to practice a bit in the wet,” Puopolo
“Obviously with the downpour it made it a little bit hard.
“But the guys worked really hard and we got a good session out so that’s all we can really ask for.”
Given the number of new faces across both the playing and coaching staff, Puopolo explained that the camp offered additional benefits for the club.
There have been eight new names join the senior and rookie lists over the off-season, while Sam Mitchell and Torin Baker have been added to the coaching ranks.
“The physical aspect is always important in this kind of camp,” Puopolo said.
“But also important for us is the bonding side of it.
“We have a lot of new faces, so it’s about getting that real team spirit.”
Entering his ninth season at the club, the 31-year old said he is healthy and revitalised for the upcoming 2019 campaign.
“This is probably the first pre-season I’ve been able to start and have a real crack at.
“My body is feeling great and I’m just happy to be out there and amongst it all.”
