FIRST TEAM
06/27/2011

1899 undergo performance and fitness tests

Preparations are well underway for Bundesliga side 1899 Hoffenheim, as the first team squad underwent their mandatory pre-season performance and fitness tests on Monday. It also presented new head coach Holger Stanislawski with his first opportunity to welcome international representatives Chinedu Obasi, Vedad Ibisevic, Isaac Vorsah, Jukka Raitala, Edson Braafheid, Sebastian Rudy and Peniel Mlapa back into the fold.

Over the past few days the weather in Kraichgau has left a lot to be desired, however, it cleared up at the perfect time as the 1899 first team underwent a rigorous test of their fitness and performance levels. With the temperatures reaching as high as 30° Celsius, the players were pushed to their limits, especially those returning fresh from their summer holidays. Dr. Joachim Jost and his team from the Olympic Training Centre in Heidelberg were in charge of proceedings, putting the squad through their paces with a number of endurance exercises. “It seems as if all the players have been working hard during their time away from football”, stated 1899 trainer Christoph Elser, but was unwilling to divulge any further details.

The endurance tests were followed up with a medical check for each of the players. “The medical tests allow us to discover any irregularities early on so that we can then take precautionary measures”, explained Athletic Director Yannick Obenauer. It was then Stanislawski's turn with the players as he worked inside a 2m x 2m room designed to test and improve their reactions, coordination and balance. “It was a tough day”, admitted Isaac Vorsah.

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