Slalom training with the mannequins. Slalom training with the mannequins. Image: Warren Clarke

Looking east

“The training in China is far stricter. They go into camp each morning and they’re there all day, often until late at night. I don’t think the coaches trust their players to be out at night like Australian coaches do. Out here we have a lot of input into the training sessions. We’re always told, ‘If you have a problem, if you think we can do something better, then suggest it at a video session. If you’re right we’ll go with it, if you’re wrong we’ll move onto the next thing.’ Over there you don’t have that option. If you’re not happy with things, too bad. You’re just a player and you do what you’re told.

“The players in China have two sessions every day and they don’t do any weight training or anything like that. Their training sessions are primarily passing drills and speed drills, while over here the emphasis is much broader – shooting, crossing, fitness … They’re pretty confident when it comes to shooting over there. I think they all think they can shoot – including the goalkeeper! Overall I’d say Australians are fitter and stronger, while the Chinese are sharper and faster.

“I think going to Asia and playing there is a very worthwhile experience. Even if you only go for a short time – I was only in China for four months – you see the professionalism over there. It’s definitely your full-time job. You’re in camp 24-7 and all that’s on your mind is football. Over here, on the other hand, we’re done by one o’clock. That’s not saying we don’t work as hard, but over there it’s so … full on. You’re always there, even if you’re not training you’ll be in a room, thinking about football, or in a meeting talking about football.”

– Aaron Scott