The GB women’s hockey team is currently preparing for the bronze medal match at the Tokyo Olympics, and their success has been attributed to an unexpected activity integrated into their training regime. Instead of their usual routine, the team participated in a synchronised swimming competition, a decision made by GB Hockey’s strength and conditioning coach, Tom Drowley.
Drowley explains, “We did a pool recovery session where I gave them 10 minutes to create a routine. They all came in and we decided who won. Considering the next day we were fighting for a medal, everyone went for it. The routines were genuinely outstanding.” This unconventional approach to training facilitated team bonding and showcased their creativity, underscoring the significance of camaraderie and unity in their journey to victory.
The value of these unique training moments is not lost on Drowley, who emphasises the importance of such experiences in bringing the squad together as athletes and individuals. “It’s why hockey players talk about the changing room moments. You can’t take away from the private moments where we bonded as a squad and as a group of people,” he adds.
The team’s commitment to pushing boundaries and seeking innovative ways to prepare for their matches demonstrates their unwavering dedication to their sport. It also highlights the multidimensional nature of their training, illustrating that success on the pitch is not solely determined by physical prowess, but also by the mental strength and rapport within the team.
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For further information on Tom’s company, Nth Degree Performance, readers can visit their website for more details and can also follow them on Instagram for regular updates and behind-the-scenes content.
The GB women’s hockey team’s unconventional training methods and their emphasis on team bonding shed new light on the intricate preparations and efforts required to achieve victory at the highest level of competition. By embracing creativity and unity, they have not only excelled on the pitch, but have also set a remarkable example of the multidimensional aspects of successful athletic training.