Before school opened the DHS 1st XV Rugby Team squad departed for Spirit of Adventure for four nights, where they were put through a rigorous training schedule in order to prepare them effectively for the rugby season.
The camp consisted of team workshops, outdoor exercises and field training sessions which meant a tightly condensed schedule aimed at challenging the body and mind.
The purpose of the workshops, run by our sports counsellor, Bryan Adam, was to ensure the development and structure of the team responsibilities for the year, whilst at the same time working towards a new rugby culture at the school. These sessions were very proactive and helped develop the boys’ leadership abilities as well.
Spirit of Adventure, owned and run by ex DHS 1st Rugby Captain, Rudi Clark, added massive value each day as they ensured the boys were continuously pushing the boundaries both physically and mentally in each of the exercises. The highlight being the hill sprints up “Everest”, which tested the boys’ ability to endure. These outdoor activities were also fun as the boys went abseiling, rap jumping and canoeing giving them a nice break from the rigorous training sessions.
The work on the training field was of a high standard and the effort shown by the entire squad was superb.
We were privileged to be hosted by the Hillcrest Villagers, where we were able to train for the four days. Not only were the coaches able to recap on last year’s sessions but were able to introduce some new improvements for the season.
Massive thanks must go to the coaching team of Christo Wilkinson and Conal Levin for all their efforts, and a further welcome to ex-Crusaders Head Coach, Ronnie Uys, whose input has been invaluable.
To our sponsors:
Nashua for making the camp a possibility,
Future Life for the additional nutrition; and
Supplements SA for the protein
we extend our biggest thanks.
“It is only the start of our preparations for the year, but it has given us a solid platform from which to work. The boys have shown a capacity to endure and have done this as a team. This is very important to building a team.” Scott Mathie
We look forward to a productive pre-season and exciting 2016
S Mathie
M-i-C : Rugby
