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Freshmen can work with strength coaches
The NCAA has changed its rules to
give incoming freshmen players more access to the strength and conditioning
coach. The move comes on the heels of a pair of training-related
deaths prior to the 2001 season.
The new rule is thought of as a no-brainer by most coaches because
of the disadvantages freshmen can sometimes face going against upperclassmen
who have been working out all summer according to the schools
program.
Under the new rule, as long as an incoming freshman is enrolled
in summer school, the player is allowed to train with the teams
strength and conditioning coach.
The rule is advantageous for both player and school. Previously,
incoming freshmen would work out in unofficial workouts
with upperclassmen from the team. Strength and conditioning coaches
have long contended that these workouts dont adequately prepare
incoming freshmen for the rigors of the official begin to the practice
season.
Enabling freshmen to have access to the strength and conditioning
coach could better prepare the players to contribute on the field.
Most coaches know the freshmen players rarely come into their first
training camp experience as well conditioned as upperclassmen. This
is mainly because their bodies are younger and not as fully developed,
and they havent been exposed to the level of competition.
By allowing those players to work with the strength and conditioning
coach, it does not necessarily mean theyll come to training
camp in the fall in the same physical condition as the older players.
It could prevent them, however, from attempting to match the upperclassmen
workout regimen during an unofficial workout, when they are not
yet physically conditioned to do so.
Access to the strength and conditioning coach can help the player
be conditioned to achieve more in his freshman season. Most importantly,
it allows professional conditioning coaches to monitor player performance,
and take the necessary steps to ensure the player does not over
exert himself, or become susceptible to heatstroke.
For the conditioning coachs part, it is incumbent to closely
monitor these workouts and make sure the player has ready access
to water or sports drinks designed to replenish fluids quickly.
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