Austria confident Fajardo can return to top shape after injury, weight gain
June Mar Fajardo at the massage table during San Miguel practice. Photo by Randolph B. Leongson
Reigning Philippine Cup champion San Miguel back on the grind, but one familiar giant is visibly absent as coach Leo Austria began his training for the upcoming 41st PBA season.
June Mar Fajardo lay silent on the massage table with physical therapists treating both of his feet as part of his rehab for his plantar fasciitis injury as the rest of the Beermen sweated on the floor.
Limited as a spectator in San Miguel’s practices, Fajardo, who put on weight during the off-season, could only observe the plays drawn up by Austria.
Though Fajardo is a bit overweight in the first week of training camp, Austria is not losing sleep over his main man’s conditioning with the season still six weeks away.
“He has to trim down and he understands it. It really pains him to not play for Gilas because of his injury, but I’m confident he’ll be as good as he was once his injury heals,” said the coach.
Champion in two conferences last season, Austria knows that his Beermen have targets on their backs, especially the reigning MVP Fajardo.
“This coming season is going to be tough because we’re being placed as a barometer for other teams and June Mar is their main target for the things he did last season,” said Austria. “But I think with our experience, the guys realize the importance of their jobs and though we’re a bit late with our preparations, we’ll be good to go once the season starts.”
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