After spending two weeks training in extreme heat and sleeping in a purpose built high altitude facility in Qatar, a delegation of 50 people including players, coaches and fitness staff will continue their pre-season training commitments in Abu Dhabi.
In their first ever visit to the region, the Blues will utilize the world class training facilities at the Emirates Palace as well as have the opportunity to experience a vast array of recreational activities across the Abu Dhabi Emirate for team development and bonding.
Senior Coach Brett Ratten said the team was looking forward to building on the success already achieved in the past two weeks.
“Holding our pre-season training camp overseas is a big commitment from not only the players, many of whom cut their post season holiday plans short, but the entire club, as it highlights the dedication we have to improve from our 2011 season,” Brett said.
“A number of our senior players who were not involved in the training camp in Qatar will join us in Abu Dhabi giving us the chance to train as a group, as well as the opportunity for the majority of the team to have some pretty unique bonding experiences.”
The grounds of the Emirates Palace will provide the training base for the Club each day, training on a converted FIFA certified soccer pitch, often utilised by soccer powerhouse, Manchester City.
“Abu Dhabi has really become the top international sports hub for elite sporting clubs across the world, particularly the ones looking to push the benchmarks of their pre-season training,” Brett said.
“We are really looking forward to dividing our time between our daily training commitments, as well as promoting our team and our game within the region.”
UAE Nationals will have the opportunity to see the Club train, with local children invited to take part in an Auskick training session held by the Club at the Emirates Palace on Saturday, November 4.
Other activities the players will take part in include a visit to Al Forsan International Sports Resort, Bu Tinah Island, Yas Island Golf Course and the opportunity to try their hand on a local sports fishing charter.
