The GB junior squad arrived back in the UK earlier this week after their week long training camp in Hossegor France, sponsored by Calypso leading juicy water brand, Aquajuice 67 and with ferry transport provided by Brittany Ferries.

The week consisted of a variety of training techniques including: speed agility and quickness drills, Circuit training, understanding judging criteria, as well a lot of time in the ocean working on heat drills. The purpose of the heat drills was to bring the surfers in tune with surfing to win a heat, as opposed to free surfing, so these drills covered: ending the wave correctly, completing a high scoring first turn, 2 wave only heats aiming for high averages and so on. The week culminated in a man on man surfing contest with Vieux Baucou surf club, with both Nathan Elms and Jobe Harris reaching the final.

It was the first time many of the squad members had received such a varied and structured training program, and although the intensity was high, the training was well received by the members, with them all realising the benefits such training can bring

Kevin Olson, Surf coach and accommodation provider for the camp, told us “with my experience in cross- training for surfers and from a coach’s point of view, I can honestly say that you and your excellent team proved that a top level training program for the surfers can be achieved. A big hats off to all the people that are involved and support your goals and objectives”

On each day of the camp a boys and girls team captain was named, and they were given certain responsibilities including: ensuring all team members were out of bed at the allocated times, ensuring the living spaces were clean and tidy, and to provide and encourage support for  their team mates. At the end of the trip a team captain for each division was named, to lead the team in the World Championships in New Zealand. These were:

Under 18 Boys – Beau Bromham
Under 16 Boys – Jobe Harris
Under 18 Girls – Lucy Campbell

In addition a special award – (the X factor mug!) was awarded to the squad member who the coaching staff thought had put in the most effort and progressed the furthest, throughout the week. This was given to Lucy Campbell – well done Lucy!

The BSA has received praise from squad members and parents alike “Many thanks for the amazing training in Hossegor for the junior team. The coverage on line was superb. It is great to see the team being treated like top athletes and pushed to train at a professional level.” Said Mr Campbell
“It has been such an incredible experience for a young boy (Will Bailey) and he has really taken onboard the importance of all round fitness to his surfing. My sincere thanks to everyone involved!” Said Mrs Bailey

The BSA would like to thank Calypso for its financial support without which this training camp would not take place. Thanks to Brittany Ferries for the ferry transport to and from France for the squad and staff. Thanks also go out to Kevin Olsen and all the coaching staff, and management of the BSA for making this trip a great success

The next GB training camp is on the 21st and the 22nd November, where final preparations for New Zealand will take place.
Watch this space for updates and photos