Kaz Patafta at Real Madrid

How did your training go lat night? Get stuck in. Couple of crunchers going around.

Well here’ s food for thought.

Did you know Melbourne Victory signing and Canberran Kaz Patafta went to Real Madrid for a two week trial when he was 15.

Sitting in the dressing room, young Kaz was putting his shinpads on.

“You won’t need those here,” stated the Madrid coach.

And he didn’t.

While competition is tough at the World’s most famous club, players are taught to respect their fellow teammates in training.

Yes, they have to tackle, but if there is risk of injury they are expected to pull out.

Focus is on skills development and attacking creativity.

Is your club keeping up with Madrid?