Blue Jay soccer senior Grady Eckart focuses on intensive training

Blue Jay midfielder Grady Eckart is emphasizing technical skill development and fitness as part of his senior season preparations. Eckart logs approximately eight miles per match and adheres to a rigorous training schedule that includes 90-minute weekday practices alongside individual film study and recovery efforts. Despite nursing a recent foot injury that has required him to sit out some training sessions, he has remained available for all game action through September 2. The Blue Jays currently hold a 0-4-2 record, but Eckart maintains that the squad has the talent necessary to contend for a state tournament appearance. Team practices have been ongoing since August 3 under head coach Brandi Harty. Beyond the outfield players, Harty is working on goalie-specific development, emphasizing distribution and positioning to help the team navigate its slow start to the season.

• 4:46 PMYahoo Sports — Blue Jay soccer seniors get serious about training