The new season is about to start and there are some exciting things happening with MattyB DEPT.

With the MBD senior squad hard at work and taking on the Canberra winter head on everyone has worked well and supported each other to ensure the squad has a huge season ahead. A huge thank you goes to Alex Van Der Meer who put his hand up to take on the role of assistant coach as part of his own development. It has been fantastic to mentor him and I look forward to Alex taking on more a leadership role in the future. It is fantastic to have both Alex and Melissa Breen as assistant coaches and it has really allowed for some growth in the squad. There have been quite a few new recruits which is exciting and brings new energy. AACT interclub will be a major focus so you can expect the squad to be regularly competing in Canberra this season, especially in squad relays. Major events this year will include Queanbeyan Gift (Nov 2014), All Schools (Dec 2014), Canberra Track Classic (Feb 2015), National junior and senior Championships (March 2015).

MattyB DEPT. is also now working more closely with University of Canberra including the use of the gym and also student led clinics. This professional approach enables athletes are able to access physiotherapy, nutrition and psychology services all year round. On top of this we are lucky to have Elite Rehab & Sports Physiotherapy on board to supply discount treatment to the elite athletes and also specific track and field screening to athletes to assist in injury prevention and individual program development.

Melissa Breen has also taken on the role as strength and conditioning coach for the junior squad which is another huge progression in the level of professional services provided to athletes. Athletes are given proper instruction during this critical period of development to ensure they are learning proper lifting technique which will greatly improve their chance of elite performance long term. Dean Redzic continues on as the senior squad strength and conditioning coach with these sessions also taking place at the UCFit gym.

October 2014 will see the commencement of a new development squad for ages 12-16. Interest in the squad is now being taken and it is hoped that several athletes will take up the opportunity to begin a similar journey that Melissa Breen and Lauren Wells took. Both commenced as young teenagers in the squad and were developed right through the MBD pathway to become Olympians. More information here.

The popular mini and junior coaching block sessions will also recommence in the 6 weeks. These sessions will be run by Lauren Wells and introduces children from age 8-13 to fun training that develops basic running skills. Parents or children looking for information can find it here.

Also on the horizon are specialist speed and technique sessions for people of all ages, sports and ability looking to get an advantage over their competitors. More information here

For now though it is back to training and I look forward to seeing you out at the track soon

MattyB