The Gold Coast SUNS are sending a forward party to Arizona this week ahead of the Club’s third annual 2XU High Performance Camp in Flagstaff.

After seeking special approval from the Club’s high performance manager Stephen Schwerdt, Trent McKenzie, Brandon Matera, Jaeger O’Meara, Michael Rischitelli, Sam Day and Clay Cameron fly out on Thursday,  confident the extra time at altitude will pay dividends when SUNS host Richmond at Metricon Stadium on March 15.

“A few of the boys have opted to leave a few days before the main training group, which will certainly help them acclimatise to the conditions over there,” Schwerdt said.

Rehabilitation and Conditioning Coach Paul Haines will travel with the group in order to maximise their time in Flagstaff with some solid pre-camp conditioning.

For Trent McKenzie who has battled through consecutive injury-interrupted summer training blocks and last year noticeably struggled at altitude, the additional time spent in the energy sapping environment will have the clubs super boot well placed for a strong start to the 2014 campaign.

“Trent, who has had a few problems in past pre-seasons, will be able to adjust to the conditioning which will really help him put his best foot forward.”

Injured for much of the 2013 Premiership after undergoing surgery on a high ankle sprain, Brandon Matera is another of the playing list itching to build a strong fitness base during the gruelling summer sessions.

After undergoing hip surgery at the end of the 2013 season, Clay Cameron has spent much of his break rehabilitating in the Club’s weights room and has surprised many with his recovery and conditioning.     

Haines saying he believes Cameron could be one of the SUNS stand-out performer in Arizona.

“The trip to Arizona will be brilliant for him,” Haines said.

“He’ll be able to continue his rehab in a physically and mentally testing training environment, and maximise the benefit of being at altitude.”