The London League title is still fresh in the memory, the celebration hangovers are only just subsiding, and the National League season doesn't start for months, but Southend RFC are in pre-season training.
After securing promotion to the National League -- where they last played ten seasons ago and which they know will be a huge step up -- Southend are taking their fitness even more seriously.
Pressing for places - David Haynes, Mark Futcher, Nathan Strange and Simon Webb get stuck into Southend's epic pre-season programme. Picture: LUAN MARSHALL
Skipper James Shearing was delighted with the turnout and said: "To get over 40 players for the first training session in May is fantastic.
"We are hoping by starting this early we will be in the best shape possible for the start of the next season.
"Players and coaches alike know that National League Three South is a giant step up and we must improve in all areas."
Southend braved awful weather during their first session last Monday, but Shearing and co -- coached by Paddy Dunston and director of rugby Kevin Harman -- won't shirk off because of a little rain.
The captain said: "It was absolutely atrocious but I'm sure when we look back in September we will acknowledge the effort we put in over the previous three months."
James Shearing has been confirmed as Southend skipper for next season, which will be his fourth at the helm.
Kevin Harman, meanwhile, switches from director of coaching to director of rugby, which means he will have a more hands-on role alongside head coach Paddy Dunson.
Published Friday, May 23, 2003
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