The San Jose Earthquakes arrived in Cancún, Mexico on Sunday evening for their second annual preseason training camp. Known for its unrelenting schedule, Quakes players are subjected to multiple training sessions every day, along with gym workouts and beach runs.
However, the players will no longer be caught off guard with the rigorous regimen, especially given the limited roster turnover from 2019.
“I think everybody is super excited and there’s a really good vibe around the team,” said Homegrown goalkeeper JT Marcinkowski outside of his room Sunday night. “I think last year there was some uncertainty about a lot of things; the hotel, the field situation, etc. Now we’re heading down to pick up our bikes and know exactly where to go. We’re definitely itching to get going.”
Goalkeepers are generally not asked to train their conditioning as hard as field players. But the Quakes coaching staff, who like to use their keepers in possession, want to make sure each and every member of the team is in tip-top shape. Last preseason, the goalkeepers had a variety of unusual beach workouts prepared, including wheelbarrow races and soccer volleyball. Marcinkowski is looking forward to more opportunities to train in fun but challenging ways ahead of the season.
“I can’t wait. I can’t wait to get back out there. Lechu [Roa] is a great coach and I learn something every time I step out on the field. I always pick up something new from him, from Matias [Almeyda], from the guys.”
Despite being just 22, Marcinkowski – now a third-year pro – is a seasoned veteran compared to many young players on the team, including 17-year-old Homegrown defender Casey Walls and 2020 SuperDraft pick Tanner Beason. He plans to impart his experience and wisdom on the Quakes’ rookie class.
“I’d just tell them to enjoy it. It’s going to be tough; it’s going to be difficult. But the best part about it is getting through it together as a team. We grew so much last year from being here. Be excited. It’s going to be tough but it’s going to be fun.
“I think there is higher expectations from everybody but that doesn’t mean we can take our foot off the pedal. If anything, it’s slammed down harder. Instead of us taking a few days to get sharp, we can hit the ground running.”
The real work starts today.
