Like many MLS teams, LAFC took a small step towards returning to full training on Thursday.
Players took part in voluntary individual workouts at the LAFC Performance Center. As cleared by MLS, the city of Los Angeles, and local public health officials, the workouts adhered to a strict set of guidelines to ensure player safety.
"It's a good feeling to be able to get on a field that's nice and not turf," Mark-Anthony Kaye said after the workout. "It was just nice to have a clean, safe space to practice."
Players arrived at the training facility and followed a protocol that included the taking of temperatures, hand-washing/sanitization, and the wearing of personal protective equipment among other prerequisites. Once on the pitch, they were able to take part in individual drills with the ball in restricted areas to ensure proper social distancing. The sharing of equipment, including balls, was strictly prohibited.
"Back in high school, we had summer workouts and I just remember showing up all giddy," Tristan Blackmon said. "That's what it reminded me of."
The workouts consisted of a warmup with some running and conditioning. Players were able to do a bit of ball work on an individual basis. They wrapped individual sessions with a bit of free time to running around in their designated area.
MLS's training moratorium remains in place until May 15.
