EASTERN COUNTIES U14's
Team Manager: Spencer Smith spencer.smith100@btinternet.com
Head Coach: Nick Pressling
Coaches: Simon Sinclair, Stu Timms, Tracey Baxter, Spencer Smith
Physio: Sophie Newman
CLICK HERE To read the u14's match reports
2010/2011
Training programme and venues to be advised soon
Sunday April 3rd Essex v EC
Sunday April 24th EC v Herts
Message from Nick Pressling 2010
Guys,
On the back of your 51-8 success against Sussex and the 41-8 victory over Essex, and on behalf of the ECRU coaching team, I'd like to congratulate you all on your hard work, eagerness to learn and attention to detail, and above all the fun we've had over the past few weeks. The very simple game plan we have adopted certainly seems to be the way forward for our squad of players with both George and Austin bagging hat-tricks of tries and Ryan and skipper Patrick getting on the score sheet more than once.
Some of you will be invited to train with, and possibly play for, the ECRU 16 Group squad in October and November later this year. Those selection decisions will be made on the basis of the ability and potential of the players within your squad and the specific requirements of the squad a year above.
You will all be invited back as U15s, when you become the new 16 Group around February 2011, as we build towards your graded matches in October and November 2011. There is likely to be a training camp for your squad, probably around Easter 2011, to which a maximum of about 30 players will be invited.
I am entirely in favour of players taking a summer break from the physicality of rugby but before we get into cricket/athletics/tennis/sailing and summer holidays, could I remind you all that you will need to maintain and improve your fitness and physical strength over the close season. No matter how strong you are now, or how much stronger you think you are as you go through the usual growth stages between 14 and 16, you will be so much more effective, and therefore so much more successful, if you spend a little time working on core strength and core skills while others are lazing on the beach.
Those of you in the EPDG's will have access to strength and conditioning programmes. I suggest that you follow the guidelines provided. Those of you not in the EPDG's could consider training with a team mate who has access to one of the strength and condition programmes or take advice from your club or school coach. I am not able to supervise all of you so I am not able to provide specific strength and conditioning advice. I would, however, suggest that core strength (especially abs and lower back) and leg strength (especially quads and glutes) is likely to be of greater value than 16 inch biceps.
Do NOT be encouraged to use weights without specific expert advice - your own body weight will suffice. Consider exercises such as lunges, squats, press-ups and 'plank' for now. Remember it's not how many rep's you do, how fast you do them, or how much weight you lift that matters - it's about consistently good technique.
Have a break, play some other sports and don't be tempted to get back into pre-season training too early.
Have a great summer and I look forward to seeing you next season!
Nick
Nick Pressling
Eastern Counties Head Coach
Rain, 13° C
