BEYOND THE CALL OF DUTY

We have all talked regularly about the effects that lockdown and the Covid-19 pandemic has, and still is, having on football clubs and its fans, but what about the coaches, and what about the players?

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Here at Bristol Rovers, I have seen first-hand just how hard it has been, both in the first team and the Academy.

The younger players at the club, the Under 9-15s, have not been able to train or play through two separate lockdowns which has been incredibly difficult to manage, both logistically with finding secure facilities and putting the correct protocols in place, and also emotionally and mentally for the boys, trying to keep them motivated to continue with a routine of fitness.

In truth, the Zoom Strength & Conditioning and ball work sessions we have put on at Bristol Rovers for the pros and younger players has at least given them a routine and maintained a level of fitness. But it is not easy for a number of different reasons. For example, more often than not, there isn’t much room at home, no space to work, and there also isn’t that personal touch you get with coaching.

Under 16 players in academies across the country have been able to train but not play in a games programme, which is clearly tough when they are fighting to gain scholarships. Only the Under 18’s have been able to continue to train and play as they are on the elite sport pathway.

Lap of luxury

With first-team players, I have seen a lot struggle, both physically and mentally. We witnessed it with our son Cameron over the first lockdown. He was running almost every day and working out every day for the entire time. Why? Because he like many footballers out there are super competitive and don’t want to lose any fitness in case they suddenly have to come in and play.