RYLEY Batt knows the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games are rolling around quickly.
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Almost too quickly, in fact.
Batt returned home last week following a week-long trip to Las Vegas with the Steelers that incorporated a two-match series against the USA.
The results weren’t of great importance; it was more a case of dusting off the cobwebs since their world championship disappointment in August.
“We wanted to get some quality games in before the New Year,” Batt said.
“It was nice to recharge the batteries, it would have been nicer to have more of a break, but duty calls.”
The Australian captain was handed a different role throughout the trip – one that saw him only take to the court for little more than half a match at a time.
“I stepped back from the main role which I enjoyed and there was an assurance from other players who stepped up that we’ll be okay,” he said.
“I’m usually the one that is put in those pressure situations, but it was great for the coaching staff to see some of the others.
“It was a good way for us to continue to develop.”
The Port Macquarie product said Tokyo 2020 was the main goal – and it was little more than 18 months away.
“It’s scary how quickly the years go,” Batt said.
“We’re in a bit of a lull at the moment because that world championship loss hurt us a bit, but it’s also going to drive us for the next 18 months.
“It will probably be my last Olympics so to go out with three back-to-back gold medals … I’ve never heard of that happening in any sport.”
2019 will be a busy year for the Steelers with trips to Japan and the United States already locked in.
“We’ll head to the US in February, Japan in April and then the USA in May before we finish in Japan in July,” Batt said.
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