Joining forces with Joeys
The challenges of maintaining a quality programme for Emirates Western Force players plying their trade in Sydney has been alleviated thanks to a thriving relationship between the West Australians and renowned rugby college St Joseph’s.
The Emirates Western Force strength and conditioning team has been able to establish a home away from home at Joeys with the school putting out the welcome mat and opening the doors to their wonderful training facilities.
Players and coaching staff have benefited greatly from the support offered by Joeys which has included full access to their gym as well as training fields. Accommodation has also been catered for with staff staying on campus and able to continue their work as if they were back in Perth.
Head Coach Richard Graham has been stationed in Sydney this week alongside Head Strength and Conditioning Coach Charlie Higgins and couldn’t be happier with the bond the club and St Joseph’s has been able to establish.
“We couldn’t have asked for a better set up here as our base in Sydney, Joeys have given us everything that we require to ensure our programme runs without a hitch across this side of the country,” said Graham.
“Joeys have a wonderful rugby history and we’re delighted to be able to partner with them. It has certainly enabled us to achieve great results during a critical facet of our post season training.”
Players including Sam Wykes, Nick Cummins, Kieran Longbottom and Willie Ripia are part of the training group at Joeys and are combining the fitness regime with their Shute Shield club commitments.
All Emirates Western Force players not involved in Wallabies duties will be back in Perth on August 1 to finalise preparations for the club’s two match tour to Samoa.
“The facilities here as well as our new training base at the WA Rugby Centre in Perth has ensured all our players outside of the Wallabies are getting close personal attention which will prepare us perfectly ahead of matches against the Samoan Test team,” said Graham.
“Some players will be back at Joeys after that tour as they continue their commitments in the NSW 1st Grade.
“We look forward to continuing to grow the strong connection between the Emirates Western Force and St Joseph’s this year and into the future,” added Graham.
St Joseph’s College has developed an esteemed rugby union programme over its 130 year history. As many as 36 of their students have gone on to represent Australia including Emirates Western Force scrumhalf Brett Sheehan.
The school boasts rugby facilities second to none with eight manicured fields available to support their students sporting endeavours.
