It has been another very intense week of training as the preparation continues for our games and trip. As most University’s were finishing up this past week, a few more of the lads that are expected to go on the trip returned and began training. It raised the quality and intensity of training which was great. Beginning next week, our training schedule has been changed to allow us to begin training outside, which I am very excited for. The change in schedule however changes what hours I can and cannot work, so unfortunately I will be working less, but the whole reason I am here is for the football and so that takes precedent! Although the work has been nice and time filling, I have also been able to bring in some income to cover my current living and day to day costs. No Ill be able to rest up a little more as the intensity in training rises and really begin to focus in on the purpose of this experience.

Saturday was a very long but productive day. Jake and I coached and ran birthday parties from 9am until 6pm, before heading home for a quick refresh and then headed to the Chicago Fire vs Seattle Sounders FC MLS game in Chicago. We met up with a few other lads from training and we witnessed a pretty exciting game, along with a great crowd! It was a fun experience and hopefully be able to catch another game or two before we leave.

Finally, the weather has begun to turn in favor of summer and Sunday was a stunner! I was able to spend time reading my new book, The Mindful Athlete by George Mumford, in the sun on the deck, before coaching a one on one session and then doing a bit of ball work and relaxing for the rest of the day. Preparing for a new routine next week!