Wednesday, February 4, 2009

View from the Sidelines

The team entered Week 2 of training Monday and although it is still early in the preseason schedule, based on weather it is a long way away from where they were last week.

Under much warmer temperatures, the players took the turf fields again for five straight days of two-a-day sessions. Tuesday and Thursday are particularly longer, with an hour of fitness for the players before the first practice even gets underway.

Following today’s fitness work, the players spent a good portion of the morning playing in small sided games. Special attention was paid to formation and defensive shape as the new blood of the team desperately tries to learn Coach Smith’s system and blend with the veterans.

One thing that is noticeable already is the impressive size of many of the new players (with three of the team’s SuperDraft picks over 6-0, along with Ty Harden at 6-1) and the speed of some (Kwame Adjeman-Pamboe in particular). But matches are never won on paper, so as camp continues we’ll see how each of these guys hold up through the grind and if they can make their mark.

Shot of the day has to go to Cesar Zambrano, whose 25-yard blast from the right side ripped the net in the upper left corner.

The players were pleasantly surprised with a shortened recovery-type training this afternoon. It was entertaining at the opening of practicing though to watch as they worked on their footwork having to juggle with a tennis ball. Let’s just say there are reasons ‘keepers are ‘keepers.

There are a handful of trialists in camp as well, hailing from as far away as Spain to right here in Denver. The locker room is a crowded place right now with some having to double-up on space. Should any of these players take that next step in signing with the club, you’ll find out right here.
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2 comments:

Daniel in Denver said...

Nice report. Any news on who is trying out with the team??? What is the story with Colaluca? I hear he is with the Red Bulls.

JonForget said...

I can't wait to see the impact Coach Smith has on the Lads!