HAWTHORN’s players have been tearing up the track since their return to pre-season training following the Christmas break.
With exactly one month to go until the Hawks’ first NAB Challenge game of 2016, there is no time more important than now in preparing for the season ahead.
Head Fitness Coach Andrew Russell says the output and attitude of the players – and their determination to work hard – has been pleasing so far during the pre-season.
He says there have been a number of players who have led the way.
“Among the more experienced players, the guys that have been really leading the way in terms of training have been Luke Breust, Ben Stratton, Isaac Smith and Luke Hodge, just to name a few,” Russell said.
“They’ve been outstanding with their execution so far.”
Among the younger group pushing for senior selection, Russell highlighted Daniel Howe, Tim O’Brien, James Sicily, Zac Webster and Dallas Willsmore as impressive performers.
“In his second year at the club, Dan has really stepped up,” Russell said.
“He couldn’t do a lot last year before Christmas when he first came to us, but he’s been able to do 95 percent of the training this year.”
“Tim’s had his best block of training since he’s been at the club and hasn’t missed a session, James continues to improve and has done 95 percent of the training, while Zac has continued his good, solid training from before Christmas.
“Zac did an 18-second personal best in his aerobic running test last week, which is really encouraging for him.
“Dallas has also been really consistent, and his output on the track has been higher than in previous years.”
Russell said Irish rookie Conor Glass, who trained with the club for two weeks before heading home at the weekend, had also impressed.
“Conor has a great attitude, he just gets in there and gets the work done,” he said.
“He’s a no-fuss type of guy, which we really like. He’s self driven and really loves the work, so we’ve enjoyed having him as part of the club for the past two weeks.”
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