The 2010 Chicago United squad has been eager to get back on the pitch ever since they were put down at Nationals by the Calgary Kangaroos. With the sour taste still fresh in their mouths United leaders took off season training to the next level.
“It’s always nice to get out and break a sweat playing basketball or hitting the gym.” said new coach of the United, Anthony Hendrie. “But our lads wanted to get the footy in their hand again, work on some footwork, and start the season off strong.”
A typically Chicago United offseason would bring the team together for some pick up basketball games, extra fitness, and the ever present night festivities. However, the club went the extra mile to rent indoor soccer space at a nearby facility. As a result, recruiting numbers are up and the United are getting an early start on their championship run.
“We made some great changes and additions this off-season. New coach, new sponsor, and some quality recruits.” President Frank Bradley explains. “We’re bringing back a lot of our starters this year. More importantly is that we’ve got some young guys who will challenge those veterans for starting spots. It makes everyone better.”
The indoor training sessions have allowed The United squad to focus on getting their mechanics back after a cold off season and several months away from a football. Back in October, the United squad faced a focused Calgary in their first Nationals is two years.
“It was a wake up call for a lot of our guys.” says veteran B.J. Gambaro. “Our pace just wasn’t there and Calgary did a good job of taking us out of our game. Regardless, 2010 is a big year for us both in the MAAFL and at the National level. We’ll be ready for Nashville.”
The Chicago United have 3-peated in the Mid American Australian Football League (MAAFL) claiming titles in 2007, 2008, and 2009. As the weather turns in Chicago the team looks to get off to a quick start and many of the new recruits will get the first taste of the big Waveland Oval. It all starts with Chicago’s own Metro Divison where the Wrigleyville Rhinos will face the defending champs, Lincoln Square Tigers, on April 9th. The Chicago United squad will first suit up for the Columbus Jackaroos on May 22nd.
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