The Crew resumed its preseason training schedule Sunday morning at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Fla. after defeating D.C. United 1-0 in the team's first exhibition on Saturday. Head Coach Robert Warzycha and his staff put the team through some light conditioning and shooting drills before a tactic-focused 11-on-11 scrimmage. Less than a week into preseason camp, Warzycha sees things starting taking shape.
"It's just the beginning," Warzycha said. "Obviously one session is not going to fix all of the things that we need to fix. I think with another few sessions, we can do much better."
While fitness is still the top priority in Bradenton, Warzycha is being cautious to not overwork his players.
"I think with doing two sessions each day, obviously we have to be careful and not over do it," the Head Coach explained. "But this is the time when we have to work hard. The guys have a good attitude and everything is going great so far."
Instead of returning to IMG Academy for a second training session Sunday afternoon, the Crew gathered at a local gym in Sarasota for a strength workout.
A NEW FACE IN CAMP
To begin Sunday morning's training session in Bradenton, Fla., Robert Warzycha asked Justin Meram to introduce a new face in the preseason camp.
"Guys, this is Konrad Warzycha. He's from Columbus and he went to Ohio State. He's here to train with us," the former Michigan Wolverine announced.
Konrad, Head Coach Robert Warzycha's oldest child, played four years for the Buckeyes and helped the Scarlet and Gray to an appearance in the 2007 NCAA College Cup Final before spending the past two seasons with Sporting Kansas City.
The 23-year-old Warzycha arrived in Bradenton Saturday night in hope of landing a contract with the club he grew up watching his father play for and later coach.
"It's a dream come true," the younger Warzycha said. "Ever since 1996, when we moved to Columbus and my dad signed with the Crew, I've been following the team and I remember going to games with my brother. We would go to practices and stuff and hoping to one day be out there. To get the opportunity to compete for that chance is a dream come true."
The midfielder isn't expecting any preferential treatment because of his bloodline. To his father, he is just another trialist in camp working to make the 2013 roster.
"He's no different than any of my other coaches," the younger Warzycha explained. "We're both professionals about it. Once we step on the field, he's the coach and I'm the player. There's nothing different."
"[Konrad] is another one of our players. I don't see any difference. I'm "Dad" at home and on the field, I am the coach," the Head Coach echoed.
