Winterstein academy ready to help Townsville juniors get up to speed
PREMIERSHIP-WINNING Cowboys winger Antonio Winterstein has set his sights on developing the next generation of North Queensland footy stars with the launch of a specialist training academy in Townsville.
Winterstein retired in 2018 having scored 97 tries across 214 NRL games and is now dedicating his time to help emerging players progress to the elite level.
The 33-year-old Samoan international is head coach of Pacific Sports Management’s Townsville Academy, which was launched in Aitkenvale in early March.
Winterstein said the academy was an avenue to share his knowledge and experience with rugby league players from 13 to 17 who dream of one day playing in the NRL.
“This will give them an understanding of the rigours of what it takes to be a professional rugby league player,” he said.
“These are good lessons to learn if you want to play rugby league because it definitely teaches you life skills that can transfer over to the workforce as well.”
Winterstein said one unique aspect of the academy was the introduction of specialist sprint training to teach players the proper technique to unlock their top speeds safely.
The academy will train two hours per week for six weeks, with half dedicated to football and the remainder to speed.
“It wasn’t until I entered the professional system in the NRL where running mechanics and specialised instructors came in to look at our speed,” Winterstein said.
“If our young people can be exposed to that type of training it will enhance their careers.”
Registrations are available online.