Waratahs fans will have a rare opportunity to witness the side prepare for the 2009 Super 14 at a series of open training sessions and fan days across Sydney over the coming months.
Throughout November and December, the Waratahs will host a free public barbecue alongside open training sessions on the northern beaches, and in south and western Sydney, which will also include a number of fun activities and giveaways for fans.
Head Coach Chris Hickey is behind the push to take the team to the people by scheduling the sessions after school and at venues all around Sydney.
NSW Rugby’s Community Rugby department will be on hand providing a number of rugby-based activities and giveaways for those in attendance at what will be unique opportunities for Waratah fans to witness their heroes at training and interact with them after the sessions.
“This is an opportunity for us to get involved with the local Rugby communities and show that there is a strong relationship between the grassroots of the game right up to Super 14,” said Hickey.
“On the Junior Waratahs Development Tour of Fiji the squad spent a lot of time with the locals, talking to them about Rugby and life as footballers, and the team really enjoyed it.
“These fan days will be an opportunity to do something similar and hopefully inspire some kids to take up the sport in 2009.”
While 14 players are currently on the Wallabies Spring Tour, the remaining members of the Waratahs squad will begin preparations for the 2009 Super 14 at the team’s Orientation Day on Monday 3 November. As well as being kitted out in next season’s gear, the squad will commence strength and conditioning testing as well the first full training sessions of the campaign.
“There’s been a lot of work done behind the scenes in preparation for next season and with the exception of the players on the Wallabies Spring Tour, as of Monday it is all systems go,” said Hickey. “It may only be October, but in less than two months we’ll already be playing trials so next year is already right on our doorstep.”
HSBC Waratahs Open Training & Fan Days
Monday 10 November – Pittwater Rugby Park, Narrabeen (Activities from 3:30pm)
Monday 24 November – OKI Jubliee Stadium, Kogarah (Activities from 3:30pm)
Monday 8 December – Western Weekender Stadium, St Marys (Activities from 3:30pm)
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