Soccer To Benefit From New Fitness Initiative

United Soccer 1 and the Jim Blair Corporate Wellness Centre have joined forces to launch an exciting new Fitness and Assessment Programme.

From the start of the 2001 season, at least 35 Federation members will receive their own Fitness and Assessment Programme tailored to their needs, courtesy of United Soccer 1 and the Jim Blair Corporate Wellness Centre, in association with the Lion Foundation.

The programme was launched earlier this week (Wednesday 14 March) at the Jim Blair Corporate Wellness Centre in Albany. United Soccer 1 Chairman Kevin Simms and Centre owner Jim Blair spoke at the event highlighting the importance of regular and thorough training.

"Fitness and frequent assessment are paramount to the development of all athletes. Regular monitoring encourages people to remain focused and motivated," says highly respected international fitness consultant and former professional footballer Jim Blair.

"As a result of this programme, selected United Soccer 1 players will benefit from a fully comprehensive fitness programme, tailored to their individual needs."

One of seven federations set up nationwide by Soccer New Zealand, United Soccer 1 covers all club and representative teams in the Far North, Northland, Harbour/Rodney and Waitakere.

"Given we are committed to growing the game and improving the quality of players, we are very proud to offer this unique service to our members," says Federation Chairman Kevin Simms.

"Not only will our players receive a fitness programme which will assist with further development of their skills and strengths, it will also be personalised to take into account the fitness and skill requirements of their specific position on the field."

Selected National Academy players, together with members of the Federation's Under 19 Mens, Senior Mens and Womens teams are eligible to apply for the Fitness and Assessment Programme. In addition to receiving a fully comprehensive individual assessment programme, senior players will also have complete access to all facilities available at the Jim Blair Corporate Wellness Centre.

The selection panel for the Fitness and Assessment Programme include United Soccer 1 Director Graeme Perigo, Director of Coaching Keith Pritchett and Senior Mens Coach Brian Turner (for male applicants) and Senior Womens Coach Billy Harris (for female applicants).

For further information on United Soccer 1 please visit www.unitedsoccer1.org.nz.

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