Pre-season sports training is underway

The sports include Netball, Tennis, Men's and Women's Rugby Union, Hockey, Football, and Rugby League. Many of the regional and national leagues begin by mid September, hence the need to return to a performance training environment as early as possible.

The general purpose of pre-season training is to prepare sportsmen and women for the demands of the upcoming season. The training schedules are organised by the Directors of Sport and high performance managers in conjunction with their sports specific club committees. Training will include strength and conditioning, general fitness and sport specific training sessions. Nick Beasant, Assistant Director of Sport (Performance and Competitions) at the University said 'Pre-season training is a crucial aspect of our sports teams' preparation for the season ahead. It helps players focus, improves their physical fitness and reduces the chance of injury as training and competition progresses.'

The University of Exeter is one of the leading sporting institutions in the UK and boasts some of the best facilities in the South West. It was placed 7th out of 145 institutions in the 2011/12 British University and College Sport (BUCS) ranking - up another place on the previous year. Nick added 'This is evidence of the significant developments that have taken place. Our investment in facilities, coaching and sport club support has resulted in better performances on the field. Most of all it is a tribute to our committed sports teams - especially those that cut their summers short to return for pre-season training.'

Pre-season training is not obligatory, however sports that have already begun their schedules have seen a high numbers of students attending. We wish all our sports teams the best of luck for the up and coming season and look forward to seeing if they can improve on the high standards that were set last year.