RUTH CAWDRON

Are you trialing for a team this season? 

Yes, I’m trialing for a third season with Deep Space, a London-based mixed team and the reigning double European and UK National champions.

Are you a returning player? 

Yes, we're a club where everyone trials every year to make the team. 

How do you feel about being a returner?

Compared to my Year 1 trial, when I was focused on choosing between clubs and mostly thinking about myself, this year feels different. As a first-time vice captain, and after building friendships over the past two years, I’m much more aware of the people around me. I’ve become more mindful of how everyone is in different positions, and I make a conscious effort to support my friends.  

How do you prepare physically?

I prioritise feeling fresh for trials and training in my weekly schedule. For example, I won’t go to the gym on the morning of trials so I can get extra rest and a bit more sleep. Throwing is especially important for me because of my on pitch role so I feel my best when I get plenty of touches on the disc before trials. 

How do you prepare mentally?

The key for me is focusing on what I can control. Am I fueling properly in the morning and afternoon so I’m ready for evening trials? Am I getting there early and setting myself up to perform? One of my biggest mindset shifts is letting go of the off-season—it’s done. Where I am now is my starting point, and the only thing that matters is showing up and making the most of trials.

I also know from experience that I play best when I’m supporting others. Being vocal on the sideline, helping teammates stay focused, and encouraging them to control what they can actually improves my own game.

For returning players, trials are a bit different. There’s an unspoken competition—figuring out roles, assessing the pecking order, and seeing who’s made progress in the off-season, that naturally adds intensity & competition.

How about preparing for the season as a whole?

The first sessions are all about setting the tone, especially for new players. It’s about creating an environment that’s both fun and competitive.

Once trials are over, the focus shifts to settling into the team and defining roles. I have a throwing-centric role, so for me the first few trainings are about assessing where my off-season project throws are and where they can be developed. Is a new skill ready to be integrated into the team’s play, or does it need more work? Finding that balance is important—what’s essential for the team versus what’s personally motivating but not necessary for my role.

The early weeks also help set expectations. How do we establish a culture where new players feel welcome but also understand the level of commitment? It’s about figuring out how the team is shaping up—who’s stepping into leadership roles, who’s developing into key playmakers, and how we’ll work together to progress throughout the season.

At this stage, the energy from trials starts shifting from proving yourself to building towards something bigger.