Today, the youth team's training scheme stepped up a gear, as the youngsters travelled round to the gym underneath the Willbutts Lane Stand for a weightlifting exercise.  They were put through their paces thoroughly, firstly starting up with easy, lighter weights, then moving up to 40-60kg.

 It is easy to forget that these young lad's only finished school months ago, as they powered through the session to football-related beats such as Middlesborough's anthem 'Pigbag'. The boys were more than happy to pose for a few photos for the website, showing off their strength and prowess with the weights. They listened attentively to Chris Beech, explaining in detail their tasks and encouraging the team throughout. The club has a bunch of youngsters enthusiastic to progress and develop into players more than capable of playing for Rochdale Football Club

By Dean Smith