Fitness coach and striker on their way to Drumahoe
Published Date:
18 June 2008
INSTITUTE started pre-season training last night (Tuesday) and boss John Gregg hopes to see a leaner and hungrier team with a new fitness coach in place.
Gregg hopes the new coach will help boost preparation for the season opener at Glenavon in August.
Local veteran athletics coach Malcolm McCausland has joined the 'Stute staff and he has already drawn up plans to get the likes of David Ogilby, Ruairi Boyle, Philip Lowry and Co fitter than they have ever been.
"Having spoke to Malcolm on a number of occasions I have been more than impressed," said Gregg.
"He has drawn up an eight week training programme, which won't only concentrate on fitness but will also look at the players diets and other aspects, which will ensure they get into tip top shape for the start of the season.
"I have told the board that we need to ensure that everything about the club is run professionally, because this in my opinion is the club's biggest year in Irish League football, because maintaining our status in the Premier Division is all that matters."
The Coleraine man also admitted that he's continuing to talk to a host of players, but with pre-season training already underway he wants all his squad assembled sooner rather than later.
"I spoke to the board recently and I want to get things sorted out soon in regards getting the players I want into the club," added the Institute boss.
"Everyone knows I have been speaking to a few players but like a lot of deals these things take time."
One of Gregg's targets is Limavady United striker Paul Brown, however the Drumahoe club may have to pay big money to prise him away from the Roesiders.
"Paul Brown is contracted to Limavady United Football Club, until January 2010 and I expect him to report to pre-season training, which starts soon," stated Limavady manager Ollie Mullan.
"I know there is a lot of speculation surrounding a number of my players, but unless we get a bid which we feel is reasonable then we won't be selling anyone. Paul has indicated that he may not want to play First Division football, so we might have to look at the situation and I know that Institute have expressed an interest in him."
For a full list of 'Stute's fixtures for the 2008/09 season, check out our website at www.londonderrysentinel.co.uk
Meanwhile Institute will be holding a trip down the Foyle evening on the 'Toucan One', next Friday, June 27.
Boarding is at 7.30pm sharp and there will be entertainment and a light supper provided. Tickets for this fund raising event are £10.
To book a ticket or for further information contact Andrew Russell on (0789) 082 4156.
The full article contains 500 words and appears in Londonderry Sentinel newspaper.
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Last Updated:
18 June 2008 10:48 AM
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Source:
Londonderry Sentinel
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Location:
Waterside