The second day of training camp began in the gray hush of pre-dawn. The team's breath fogged in the biting air as they trudged across the dew-soaked grass, their cleats leaving faint trails on the field. Overhead, the stars were just beginning to fade, giving way to the faintest light of morning. The campgrounds were eerily quiet, save for the distant rustle of leaves and the soft chirping of crickets. Yet, amidst the stillness, a palpable sense of anticipation hung in the air.
Coach Gadiona stood at the center of the main pitch, clipboard in hand, his silhouette sharp against the faint glow of the horizon. His sharp eyes scanned the assembled team, his gaze lingering on each player as if assessing their readiness. Beside him stood a group of unfamiliar figures—specialist coaches, their presence a silent promise of the challenges that awaited.