Systems and methods for sending and receiving messages, including training data, using a multi-path packet spraying protocol are described. A method includes segmenting a message into a set of data packets comprising training data. The method further includes initiating transmission of the set of data packets to a receiving node. The method further includes spraying the set of data packets across the switch fabric in accordance with the multi-path spraying protocol such that depending upon a value of a fabric determination field associated with a respective data packet, the respective data packet can traverse via any one of a plurality of paths offered by the switch fabric for a connection between the sending node to the receiving node. The method further includes initiating transmission of synchronization packets to the receiving node, where unlike the set of data packets, the synchronization packets are not sprayed across the switch fabric.