Richmond players have endured a gruelling day on the training track at the University of Arizona, on the first day of their pre-season camp in the USA.

A 90-minute weights session this morning was followed by a two-hour running and skills session.  The exhausted team returned to the hotel for a meeting, where they were told Chris Newman would again captain the Club in 2012, with Trent Cotchin elevated to the role of vice-captain.

Check out all the videos, news and photos from the Tigers' US camp at our dedicated web page

Among the impressive performers on the track was Matthew Dea, who looks ready to build on his strong finish to 2011. His skills were excellent and he seems set to press for a spot in the back six in the 2012 season. Shaun Grigg was another who stood out.

The running session in blazing sunshine was a considerable challenge at the end of the day, but the performances of Ivan Maric, Steven Morris and Brandon Ellis would have pleased Richmond supporters. Dustin Martin and Brett Deledio also look in exceptional shape.

It was a tough initiation for the Club's selections in last week’s National Draft, but they handled themselves well and are quickly gaining an appreciation of the preparation required at the game’s highest level.

A good night's sleep was in order for all the players after day one, with an arduous hike in the surrounding mountains of Arizona facing them the next morning.blog comments powered by Disqus