Off season athletes use off time to improve

At Ottawa University athletes tend to work harder during the off-season then during the regular season. Across the board the off-season traditions are the same for most of Ottawa university athletic teams.

"As far as football goes we do what we have to do to be prepared." Earl Moorning, Senior defensive running back said.

The off-season usually is made up of workouts, team bonding and mental preparation for the next season. The workouts are more intense during the off-season then the regular season.

This is why coaches give out instructions on off-season expectations.

" WE as coaches are hoping that players are pushing themselves to be that champion they desire." Jermaine Thomas, Assistant defensive line coach said.

Players share the same expectation among themselves for the off-season work out. They feel that they need to train harder in the off-season.

" WE condition intensely during the off-season, so that we can condition light to maintain during the season." Brittany Bush, sophomore said.

The workouts change form season to off-season. As the off-season begins the workouts become more intense as the season progresses the workouts are more focused n maintain what they have achieved during the off season. For veteran athletes they have seen a large change since their rookie year.

"As the years progressed so did my effort in working out to improve not only me as an athlete but as a whole team." Moorning said.

The off-season is not all about working out. Teams also engage in bonding activities to strengthen the team unity. The football team goes on a team breakaway before the season begins to condition and team bond. The volleyball team goes out to recruit together for the next season. They also engage in other activities from going to the movies and bowling to eating and doing fundraisers in concession stands.

"Sometimes players and position groups will go to eat at their coaches house." Thomas said.