Overcast skies and humid conditions greeted the Lions’ first-to-fourth year players as they took to the training track during the first week of pre-season.
Led by new High Performance Manager Damien Austin, players were put through a series of running and ball drills in three gruelling sessions.
Forward Dan McStay in his third pre-season said it had been his hardest yet.
“There have been a few tough running sessions, a lot tougher than previous years. But all the boys are looking pretty fit, we’re going alright,” McStay told LionsTV.
With the Lions’ own facilities at the Gabba still under reconstruction (from flooding last month), the players headed to CrossFit Torian in Bowen Hills where they completed their weights program.
Coach Justin Leppitsch said pre-season was about getting the players’ fitness up to speed following the break.
“Our pre-season focus is mainly around development and getting the boys fit, particularly up into Christmas.”
A host of the Lions’ senior players also returned. Daniel Rich, Dayne Zorko, Mitch Robinson, Rohan Bewick, Ryan Lester, Josh Green and new recruit Ryan Bastinac made an early appearance to pre-season training on Wednesday.
Tom Bell and Jarrad Jansen began training on Monday and McStay said he had been impressed with the newcomers.
“They’re great guys and I can’t wait to play some footy with them.”
The remainder of Brisbane’s list will return to training on Monday November 23.
