We are becoming known as the ‘drought breakers’ after consecutive wet games in Melbourne and Adelaide, oh and don’t forget Darwin.

But wait on a minute, shouldn’t we be upset by this and playing poorly? After all our strengths this year were meant to be our speed and fast footy! How can we then explain our great wet performances already achieved this year?

Growing up in Melbourne, most Adelaideians would agree that I have probably played in a fair bit of wet footy over the years, and this is true. There are some key adjustments that have to be made when playing in the wet. Here are my four keys…

Personal Preparation: It all starts with preparation. It is pointless picturing yourself running and bouncing down the wing or taking a big pack mark in these conditions. Wet conditions require players to change their mindsets about the game. You have to realise that you are not going to get much space, the ball will be slippery and marking is going to be much more difficult.

Practice: Practice is also important. Although we did not think so at the time, playing in the wet in Darwin was invaluable experience for us. Getting used to kicking the ball off the ground, marking the ball on your chest and tackling in the slippery conditions, all help on game day.

Tactics: Tactics almost go out the window on wet days. Using handball to run from the backline or kicking to forwards on the lead is often replaced by kicking the ball long and trying to win the contested ball. Goals are a premium so the longer you can keep the ball inside your 50 the better.

Team Footy: Individual players are not the difference on wet days. It is the team of players that is more willing to put their body on the line and do all the little things that wins the game. A shepherd, knock-on or tackle can be more valuable than kicks and handballs on these days.

The past fortnight has given us all confidence in the wet. It has highlighted that when we are all asked to sacrifice ourselves for the team, we will do it, a sign of a real TEAM.

There is nothing like getting dirty and sliding around the oval, especially when you do not have to wash the clothes! Having said that it would be nice if we played in some decent dry weather this weekend!

mahns