Training with Barnes Ladies HC

A blistering hot day, temperatures in the thirties and no cooling breeze were the conditions which greeted the participants for the first joint training day between Chiswick rugby and Barnes ladies hockey clubs.  With approximately 40 participants the days coaching was focused more on fun than work, though the harsh conditions meant there was plenty perspiring from the men, and glowing from the ladies.

An interactive warm up broke the ice, culminating in the first, though not the last, occasion when hockey players were sitting on rugby player's laps.

Some relay races followed to encourage mixing, plus the obligatory round of boys versus girls.  The morning finished with a game in which jigsaw pieces had to be collected to create famous quotes.  Much running around and enthusiasm accompanied the game, with allegations of cheating and colour blindness ensuing.

Following the training session a barbecue and softball was organised.  All accompanied by the necessary practice of hydration, it was a hot day after all.

The day went in to the evening, and the groups parted agreeing to repeat the activity in August.  Indeed judging by the closeness of some participants they appeared to leave together in order to fully plan the next session!  Such dedication to the task can only be admired.