SPORTS psychologist Damian Hughes has been making waves at Warrington Wolves by organising a gruelling water training session with Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service at Queens Dock, Liverpool.
He arranged for the first team to spend the day with firefighters at Liverpool Watersports Centre to simulate still water rescues in lakes, canals and rivers.
The rigorous training programme covered survival strategies, positive thinking, teamwork ability under intense pressure, breathing techniques and rescue skills.
Damian, (pictured right) who has worked with Warrington Wolves for over two years through the Challenge Cup wins of 2009 and 2010, and also helped to guide the players through their ongoing bid to win the Super League said: “Our players find themselves in a situation that is not entirely different to that of the fire and rescue service in that every day they have to overcome the stresses of working in a hazardous environment.
“Of course, they don’t necessarily find themselves in a death-defying scenario but this training equips them with self-protection techniques and the application of low to high risk solutions.
“In a high drama situation, you can sink or swim! And this exercise is a great way to prove that panicking is wasted energy. Our players are mentally and physically strong – and they know how to survive when the going gets tough.”
Head of Coaching Tony Smith added: “Primarily the water training focuses on developing teambuilding and improving group dynamics. The players wear personal flotation devices as would the firefighters in a real situation.
“But Merseyside Fire and Rescue have also added a competitive element into the day so that part of the programme includes an ‘It’s a Knockout’ style challenge. The team will certainly be out of their comfort zone – or depths – and will have to push themselves to the limits to win. It bears more similarities to life on the rugby field than you would initially realise!”
Paul Kay, from Mersey Fire and Rescue Service, added: “We are pleased to be working with the Wolves team. The day was designed to push them to their limits both mentally and physically in preparation for the play-offs.
“It is vitally important that the fire service can operate effectively as a team under stressful conditions, carrying out ‘game plans’ to deliver successful outcomes – we’re hoping to pass on some of these skills to the rugby team.”
Picture shows Firefighters from Mersey Fire join Warrington Wolves sports psychologist Damian Hughes and players during the rescue training at Mariners Wharf, Queens Dock, Liverpool
