The University of Texas at Austin Athletics
Blog: "Paige from the Pitch" with Paige Hooper [Aug. 10, 2017]
08.10.2017 | Soccer
Check out the first installment of the Texas soccer blog discussing preseason training camp
Texas Soccer Fans: Your favorite Longhorns team is back, and ready for the 2017 season! We have gained 10 new players, nine freshmen and one transfer as well as two new coaches.
TIS THE (PRE)-SEASON!
Preseason consists of two-a-days, eating, and napping. Almost all of our time is spent around the team. We really get to know each other's tendencies and personalities. For example, junior Nakia Graham is the best napper, and sophomore Emma Jett eats A LOT of watermelon.
Let's take y'all back before the blisters formed and the bodies ached, to Day 1 on August 1. Everyone arrived to San Jacinto Dormitory to check into their rooms. After grabbing a quick bite at the Texas Athletics Nutrition Center (TANC), we had various meetings along with a photo and video shoot. There was great lighting and much smiling. Many Instagram-worthy shots were taken. Team and class pictures were also taken out on the field. The busy day ended at Brick Oven where we scarfed down pasta and bread sticks. Then it was off to bed, to dream of fitness testing and soccer balls.
We attacked fitness testing the following morning, as hard work from this summer began to pay off. The afternoon practice began with a surprise as Coach Ange introduced us to two veterans from "The Program." The marine and navy seal instructed us on how to complete a mission as a team. These men immediately had everyone's respect as we heard about their experiences on the battlefield. We were constantly reminded to look to the left and the right, checking on our teammates. We underwent "Judgement Day" full of sandbags, logs and fireman's carry. The next day began at 5 a.m. at the pool, where our cohesiveness was further tested. Overall, we were placed in uncomfortable situations but learned valuable lessons about ourselves and our teammates. #RAMPED
To recover, we were given time off as well as a massage!! Foam rolling, ice bathing and hydrating occurs daily. In the mean time, Texas Soccer Christmas has also occurred. Presents included shoes, jackets and t-shirts galore!
Practice continues as we prepare for our first match against Incarnate Word! So make sure to come out on Friday, August 11 at 7 p.m. to witness the accumulation of our hard work! Follow us on Twitter (@TexasSoccer) and on Instagram (@texaslonghornssoccer)
HOOK'EM!
P-Hoop with the Scoop
