DHL Stormers ready for lockdown
The DHL Stormers will continue to work on individual training programmes as part of a plan to improve physically and technically during the upcoming nationwide lockdown.
Following President Cyril Ramaphosa’s announcement that South Africa will go into nationwide lockdown from midnight on Thursday as part of the effort to combat the Corona Virus pandemic, the DHL Stormers have adapted their process and plans accordingly.
Given the seriousness of the pandemica, the DHL Stormers will be seeking to set a good example by staying at home, but continuing to develop themselves as players over the next 21 days and beyond.
Head Coach John Dobson said that there has been complete buy-in from the squad in terms of embracing the unique challenges that the lockdown presents for all South Africans.
“It is nice to hear that there is no reaction from anybody on a selfish level, this is for the greater good of the country and we are completely supportive.
“Our plan now is obviously remote, but in a high-quality way. There are basic conditioning elements, giving the guys [training] programmes, giving the guys gym equipment to use at home, we have got nutritional advice for each guy individually and then we have got various technical challenges for the players.
They have got to be doing self-analysis, reviewing old games and looking at trends in world rugby. Then there are also some fun challenges, whether it is a meal, or best beard for the week.
“We are trying to make it professional and stimulating at the same time, with high levels of intervention. It isn’t meant to be leave or anything like that, we have to be better physically and technically when we come back,” he said.
Dobson said that the new system will be in full effect from next week, with players expected to submit various outcomes from Monday.
“I think we have to accept that this is a bit of a shock for everybody, so there has to be a period of adaption and we are not putting them under pressure. Let them get home, get safe and get settled in their environment. From Monday we will be expecting them to submit technical analysis.,” he said.
The DHL Stormers Head Coach added that the squad will be working closely with their various sponsors and stakeholders to make this period of lockdown as impactful as possible, within the regulations.
“Even our ability to do social outreach is restricted, in terms of not being able to physically deliver stuff or visit the elderly or children. The best thing we can do at this stage is messaging, we have got amazing sponsors and broadcast partners and if we can get out any messages that help the country and at the same time serve the people who are so good to us, we want to do everything we can within the confines of the law,” he added.
