Greetings from Chula Vista!
Four full days into camp at the Chula Vista Elite Athletic Center, the Sounders underwent a tough, focused training session on Friday morning.
Fri-yay
Friday's session was the longest of the week thus far, which began with fitness drills. The most entertaining part of training featured half-field simulated match action, with midfielders and forwards trying to score against a backline and goalkeeper. Half the field comprised mostly of anticipated starters, while the other half the field included depth players and younger guys. Of note, midfielder Victor Rodriguez looked strong on the ball as he ran at defenders.
Keeping up with the ’Keepers
Club Director of Goalkeeping Tom Dutra continues to develop the goalkeepers throughout camp. Today's focus centered on quickness and agility, and, of course, Stefan Frei impressed each step of the way.
Rattled
Better keep an eye out! The campus is full of signs near walkways to be aware of rattlesnakes. An on-site representative informed the club that the snakes should be hibernating during January, but...
Farewell, Youngsters
Following Friday's session, the Sounders FC Academy players, ages 15-17, departed campus. It was a solid week for the half-dozen teenagers, who were treated as part of the team while at camp. Each guy shook hands with the coaching staff before heading out.
Quote of the Day
"I got to ball boy a bunch of games when I was a U-14 Academy player, and just being right there on the field with them was a great thing to see. It has always stuck with me because I wanted to be there, having ball kids watching me.”- S2 defender Sam Rogers
Video of the Day
Nicolás Lodeiro's English skills are muy bien!
