COLTS PRE-SEASON UPDATE WITH COACH BRAD DODD

The pre-season for the Peel Thunder Colts is still in full swing with the squad of 45 now finalised. Over the last few months the players have made great individual gains in strength and conditioning and we’re now well and truly advanced in our game style and positional development. The players have all tackled this phase with a strong work ethic and willingness to learn and adapt. 
 
In early February, the squad's 17 year olds had a hit out against the Peel Under 16 squad. There were plenty of positive performances on the day, with strong showings from South West key forwards, James Ewing, Zach Rankin, rebounding defender, Ben Roberts, Jaxon Egan and Lachie Beverly. It also gave the coaching staff an early sighter of the Under 16s who will join our program at the completion of their competition. 
 
The following weekend the squad assembled for a Training Camp. Set over the Saturday, we refreshed and reinforced the way we want to play before playing 3 x 20 minute periods of the Under 17s Vs the Under 18s. It was great to see our emerging 17 year olds pit themselves against a strong Under 18 group. Better performances on the day were Tyson Powell, Lachlan Riley, Durak Tucker, Jake Howes, Tom Rutherford and Lee Chapman for the 18s, while Tyrone Thorne, Jai Tregenza, Cam Gavin and Jack Sears held their own for the 17s. Bragging rights from the result went to the U18s. 
 
Following a run down of the recovery process, the players voted for the 2018 Leadership group. We hope to announce that early next week. 
 
The first trial match against Claremont is now just over 3 weeks away. The list is relatively healthy, with only a couple in the rehab group with minor issues. This week, 9 of the squad are taking part in a State U18 trial. We wish the boys all the best and hopefully they put their best foot forward. The rest of the squad will take part in a Testing Day on Saturday. 
 
The squad will have its Jumper Presentation on Tuesday the 6th of March. 
 
Brad Dodd
Peel Thunder Colts Coach