Pre-season training kicks off

Preparations for the 2013 season are off to a flying start, with the players impressing Performance Director Jeremy Hickmans during their first pre-season session at Hunter Sports Centre on Monday morning.

“All the boys approached the session well and seemed to enjoy themselves out there,” Hickmans told newcastleknights.com.au.

“We got a pretty nice day for it and the mood around the place is really good.”

The Knights started their pre-season training with a speed session and will focus on strength and conditioning training over the next two weeks.

“We eased them in to it today but they are still going to pull up a little bit sore after today’s session,” he added.

“The aim of the next two weeks is to get that soreness out before we start the skills sessions.

“Leading up to Christmas, it is going to be pretty tough and we hope by the time Wayne (Bennett) comes back and skills kick in, they can maintain the intensity that is needed.”

Despite a lengthy off-season, the players returned to day one of pre-season training in a good physical state.

“They know what to expect and have to be ready to go again,” Hickmans said.

“They are in a routine of looking after themselves now and if they come back in and get off to a bad start it is just going to be more painful for them.”

While for the new faces; young and old, they are setting in to life at the Knights.

“We spent a bit of time with them during the testing days and all the new boys seem to be fitting in really well,” he said.

“It was also the first session for some of our younger players and there were some interesting attempts at some of the drills.

“But that is what these sessions are for, they are only going to improve.”

Former Knight Anthony Quinn joined the team on the track on Monday, and will continue to trial with the Club this week in the hope of securing a contract for the 2013 season.