2.25.11 Blaze Wrap-Up First Week of Training Camp
Published on February 25, 2011 under Arena Football League (AFL)
Utah Blaze News Release
SALT LAKE CITY -The Utah Blaze wrapped up their first week of training camp today at Spence Eccles Field House at the University of Utah. This practice also marked the first day of practice in full-pads.
Head Coach Ron James began practice with the "Oklahoma Drill", a practice technique used to test players in full-contact situations. Two players llne-up three-yards across from each other in an area blocked off by dummies. The players then run full-force at one another until one of them is knocked to the ground or out of the designated boundaries.
"This drill is great for the first day of pads," said Head Coach Ron James. "The players can get their aggressions out early so they can get into the proper mindset for the remainder of the practice. It's also great from a coaching standpoint to see the player's capabilities full-force."
On the offensive side of the ball, Matthew Sauk is implementing a new offense. Sauk's offense helped guide the Spokane Shock to a victory over the Tampa Bay Storm this past season in ArenaBowl XXIII.
"It's a very difficult offense to learn and is something the players have never really seen before," said Sauk. "The guys have come out and picked it up with minimal errors and it's a great testament to what kind of talent we have put together this year."
QB Tommy Grady (6-7, 245, Utah) enters his first season with the Blaze after having a success with the Oklahoma City Yard Dawgz last year.
Grady stated in regards to the new offense that, "It's a very wordy system and definitely has some unique elements to it. Myself and the receivers are starting to come together with it and I believe we will do some great things."
The Blaze will resume practice next Monday at Spence Eccles as they prepare to take on the San Jose SaberCats in an 80-play scrimmage during their Open House Event next Wednesday from 3-6 p.m. at EnergySolutions Arena. The event is free to the public. Sean "OC" O'Connell from 104.6 The Zone will also be suiting up for the Blaze.
Following the scrimmage, the Blaze will be holding a meet and greet with the players and staff at Buca Di Beppo at 6 p.m., located at 202 West and 300 South in Downtown Salt Lake City. All of the Blaze players will be available for autographs in conjunction with a live remote broadcast with 104.7 The Zone.
Arena Football League Stories from February 25, 2011
- Defense Looking Strong For ArenaBowl XXII Champs - Philadelphia Soul
- 2.25.11 Blaze Wrap-Up First Week of Training Camp - Utah Blaze
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