Camp Notes - Day Six

Special Teams and Details

TAMPA BAY – Day six of Storm training camp provided the players with a welcomed change of pace. The team held a lighter, scaled back practice, with a focus on the details of the game. “Today was a good teaching day,” said head coach Dave Ewart, “we were able to focus on more of the finer points and work on special teams.”

While the players were able to work on the mental part of the game and focus on details, the day also allowed them to reenergize after five consecutive days of pounding on their legs. “Some guys are nicked up,” said defensive back Erick McIntosh. “A day like this allows us to help keep our bodies healthy.”

During the day’s second session, the coaches focused on the special teams portion of the game. In Arena Football, for most players a minimum of one-third of the plays they participate in will come from special teams.

Tomorrow will see the team go back to its full scale practice. “We gave them a little break today, we expect them to go hard tomorrow,” said Ewart.

New Acquisition: Offensive lineman Darius Savage was acquired by the Storm today. Savage (6-foot-4, 339 lbs., UCLA) played with the Bruins from 2006 – 2010 and also participated in track and field. He is a two-time All-American in discus and shot. Savage is training to make the U.S. National Discus Team in the hope of participating in the 2012 Summer Olympics.

Coaches Perspective: “Today’s practice we allowed the guys to rest a little in order to stay fresh,” said offensive coordinator John Gregory. “It also gave us the opportunity to focus on teaching the guys the little things that you can’t teach when playing at full speed.”

Quote of the Day: “When playing this game, there is a difference between good, and great,” said Ewart as he put his fingers together, “let’s make up that difference.”

Player Spotlight: Wide receiver Prechae Rodriguez is new to the Storm, but brings four years of professional experience with him. Prior to joining the Storm, he spent four years in the Canadian Football League and was named East Division Most Outstanding Rookie. Prior to attending college at Auburn University, he won an And1 slum dunk contest, and was offered a contract to play that he turned down to maintain his college eligibility.