THE Millicent Football Club became the third senior Western Border side to resume training under heavy restrictions at McLaughlin Park on Thursday night.
The Saints follow South and East Gambier to train during the SANFL’s Stage 2 regulations in the return to play road map.
But after the third phase was introduced yesterday, Millicent was the final team to hit the track in three groups of 10.
Nonetheless, A Grade coach Clint Gallio said the boys were just happy to get around each other again despite the unfamiliar surroundings.
“It was a little bit different,” he said.
“But once the footys started flinging around, it was back to normal.
“There were plenty of jokes getting around, so it was good to catch up and get back together again.
“It has been a long time since we stopped, but it felt like we never left.”
The players’ experience was heightened by the introduction of new globes fitted into the venue’s floodlights.
Gallio said the addition transformed the ground and created a nice atmosphere, which he hopes will be replicated in night matches one day.
“It was a nice night for footy,” he said.
“A few of the boys were pretty excited about the new lights, which are up to night-game standard.
“It was almost like you were training in the day time, so the oval is looking pretty good at the moment.”
To make the night possible, Gallio paid credit to the club’s hard work.
He said the ground was in prime condition for the players with equipment scattered around the area to meet the regulations.
“The club, coaches and committee have worked well together to make sure we had everything in place,” Gallio said.
“Each section had a bucket with hand sanitiser, disinfectant spray, paper towels and gloves.
“Each group had their own bag of footballs, cones and gear to use.
“I think we are in a good space as far as doing everything right.”
With so many restrictions holding the players back, the Saints did not rush into things straight away.
Gallio said he treated the session like day one of a new pre-season, but will increase the intensity this week.
“The first night was more about having a kick and enjoying each other’s company again,” he said.
“We just did some simple kicking and handballing exercises.
“But the boys got a bit of a sweat up, which was good in a short, sharp hour.
“We will be careful and make sure the boys do not get any injuries, but we will ramp it up bit by bit.”
