Steven Beitashour spent much of Toronto FC’s short 44-day off-season soaking up the sunshine in California but agreed that, despite the wintry weather awaiting them, there was a tinge of spring in the air when he and his teammates reported for the pre-season this week.
“It’s a little colder than where I was before,” the defender joked. “But honestly, I missed it. I’m not just saying that. I missed being back with the boys and the coaching staff and everyone around here.”
The rejuvenation that comes with the new season — both sports-wise and weather-wise — was evident Tuesday morning as players prepared to check their fitness with speed and jump testing.