mmg.com.au

The Deniliquin Rams resumed pre-season training on Monday as they continue their conditioning and preparation for the 2013 Murray Football League season.

The club’s senior squad, as well as some keen juniors, returned to the field relaxed and recharged after the festive break, eager to build on what they had practiced during the first phase of pre-season training.

Almost 40 players were in attendance, including recruits Blair Whelan, Simon Maher and Anthony Bull, and coach Gary Parsons said he couldn’t be happier with the dedication shown so far.

‘‘It’s the best I’ve seen it to be honest,’’ the five time premiership coach said.

‘‘It’s probably to do with the fact that everyone’s young, and they’re enthusiastic and keen.

‘‘There’s also a good mix of older blokes in their too.’’

Other new faces at Hardinge St Oval during the week included Ryan Chadderton, Tom Draffin, Justin Barker and former Rovers forward Brett Macdonald.

Testament to the work many players have put in over the Christmas break, youngsters Doug Bond, Charles Trotman and Ash Morris led the way in the club’s first test of the season - a 3km time trial.

Seventeen year-old Bond, who is on the Geelong Falcons TAC Cup roster, was first across the line with a blistering 11min 14sec.

‘‘There was some good results (to come out of the time trial),’’ Parsons said.

‘‘I was pleased to see guys like Oli Draffin and Ash Morris have put in a bit of work, and they were a few minutes quicker than what they were this time last year.

‘‘On average the times are better than last year and if we can knock another minute or two off each, we’ll definitely be fit enough.’’

The Rams train on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6pm, and Friday mornings from 6am. All players are welcome.

3km time trial results: Doug Bond 11:14, Charles Trotman 11:54, Ash Morris 12:00, Josh Whelan 12:03; Brenton Loudon 12:10, Ryan Chadderton 12:25, Oliver Draffin 12:27, Jake Barnett 12:33, Jayden Pitts 12:41, Justin Barker 12:41.