By Des Rolfe

Walking, running, panting, bumping, cursing and sweating. 

Is it the sound of a cattle stampede? No. 

The Port Douglas Crocs 2014 hopefuls gave it their all at their pre-season training camp in the Daintree on the weekend. 

The players engaged in  challenging physical and mental activities, including a  gruelling seven-kilometre cross-country run. 

The race was won in convincing fashion by new recruit Josh Lee.

Coach Brad Cooper intends to field a competitive unit against South Cairns at the Croc Pit next Saturday and the enthusiasm shown by the boys at the camp demonstrated that the club is set to have a successful season.  

Once again Cooper has had the unenviable task of needing to cover the loss of 25 players from last year's playing list. 

But he has worked tirelessly over the off-season to recruit new team members, both from southern states and local teams.

Adam Boone has been appointed assistant coach and experienced players including Dylan Wearmouth, Kane Freyling, Brad Lawlor, Scott Roberts and Rohan Handley are returning to the 'Croc Pit'.

The camaraderie shown at the training camp should assist new comers such as Josh Lee from Warragul, Kane Goodwin from Swan Districts, Western Australia, Dylan Pierce from South Cairns, and Hayden Bogicevic from Pearcedale to blend together and forge a real team spirit. 

That spirit was certainly evident in the successful way that President Andy Smith ran the training camp ably assisted by his committee and a team of volunteers.

The Crocs' first match is on next Saturday, April 5 at the 'Croc Pit'.  

Come along and support the boys.