Rocks aces given their marching orders!
Rocks aces such as striker Jimmy Muitt and skipper Harvey Whyte are set to get their marching orders. But fans shouldn’t worry too much about the Bognor favourites heading to the exit door at Nyewood Lane. Because the orders in question won’t come from bosses Jack Pearce or Robbie Blake -- but rather from a team of crack British Forces fitness instructors who will put the players through their paces at a punishing boot camp. Manager Pearce and coach Blake want their squad in the best shape possible as they head into the new Isthmian Premier division. So they have organised the pre-season trip to the Defence School of Healthcare Training, Lichfield — having liaised with Rocks fitness coach Neil Cockcroft. And the squad get to put their fitness to the test once more when they play a friendly match against Midland League Premier division opponents in the shape of Long Eaton United after their lungbusting drills at the FA’S headquarters St Georges Park. Pearce says the three-day trip should provide a great team bonding opportunity and help his players get up to speed with their fitness. He said: “It’s something a bit different and we are delighted to have the chance to take the squad up to the Midlands to help us prepare for the new season. “It will be hard work for the players but it’ll be fun, too, and will undoubtedly enhance our team spirit.” Bognor general manager Simon Cook says there are lots of positive aspects to the trip. He explained: “We think there is a lot to like about the visit and as a club we’re extremely pleased to be able to take part. “The squad of around 20 players will be traveling on Friday 19th July and will spend time training with the army, and undertaking a number of exercises designed to promote team spirit, fitness and initiative. “These will take place in a military environment and under the supervision of military instructors. “There will be a visit to the FA’S headquarters St Georges Park on the Sunday, with the match against Long Eaton United to round it all off.”