THERE has been no rest for Andrew Boston over the end-of-season break, with the promising utility forfeiting all holiday plans to ensure he returned in peak fitness for his first tour of Arizona. 

“After the season I didn’t train for 1-2 weeks, but then immediately got back into it,” Boston said.

“I was training around three times a week, but have since ramped the sessions up to five.”

It’s a passionate show of strength from the zippy 19-year-old goal sneak, after the rookie-listed Gold Coaster managed to found a regular senior spot after injuries plagued the GC SUNS stock of small forwards. 

Playing every game but two after the mid-season break, Boston notched eight senior appearances in his rookie campaign – including a breakout performance against Greater Western Sydney in the side’s final match for the year, collecting 17 touches and a career-high four goals from the forward pocket. 

Hopeful of earning a senior recall in 2014, Boston says he’s determined to run out alongside his Gold Coast teammates once again in front of the sea of red and yellow flags at Metricon Stadium. 

 “I was able to get a few games under my belt, so hopefully I’ll be able to improve on that next year.”

With the majority of the GC SUNS young list all eyeing their fourth pre-season campaign, Boston knows he’ll have to work twice as hard in his first full summer of training.

“I definitely want to get fitter by improving my 2km time trial and putting on a bit of size,” he said.

To do that, Boston says the club’s high-altitude training camp in Flagstaff will be pivotal in assisting the Broadbeach product develop a stronger aerobic base and increased muscular endurance.  

“I’ve heard plenty of great stories about Arizona, and can’t wait to test myself against some of the mental and physical challenges that await.”