After a lie in yesterday, today was another tough day. We are all looking forward to the tapering period which starts tomorrow. Today began early with a visit to the gym. The session lasted about an hour and a half and involved super sets and plyometric work. It was definitely hard work, but it wasn't all terrible. Melanie Booth and I bonded as we disputed who could complain the most. I think I won.

 

 

We then had some down time, before re-assembling for a pre-training meeting. Then it was off to training at the field.

 

We had an intense practice, one that kept us out on the field for a significant period of time. Most of the practice was taken up with full 11 v 11 games. With members of the squad playing against each other, there was no quarter given. The training was extremely intense, but it was also really enjoyable for us out on the field. Even though you have to be totally focused, and then run until you drop, we had a good time.  Everyone enjoys these competitive sessions. 

 

After all the hard work out on the field, we reluctantly acknowledged that it was  time for the excruciatingly painful ice baths. These recovery methods absolutely suck while you're doing them, but they are definitely beneficial in the long run.