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CFL B.C. Lions

BC Lions Training Camp Report: Day One

June 4, 2007 - Canadian Football League (CFL)
B.C. Lions News Release


(Vancouver) Less than 24 hours after putting the 2006 season to bed with a Grey Cup ring dinner on Sunday, 79 players hit the field under overcast skies in Abbotsford for the first of two practices on the day. If anyone was concerned about complacency among the returning veterans then the quiet determination displayed on both sides of the ball gave every indication that the 2007 version of the BC Lions are preparing for another long run. Temperatures that cracked the 30's on Friday and Saturday tailed-off on Monday making the conditions perfect for football.

No-Hit

The morning session on Monday was used primarily as a teaching period with players in helmets and shorts and jerseys minus pads. Arguably the most important element of defensive team drills was established early on as veterans introduce newcomers to their unique cheer before starting walk-thru. In the afternoon, tempo picked up as defensive backs and linebackers tangled with receivers. Young 'backer Nick Hannah may want to check his program to find out who number 81 is after sending the shifty slot back and reigning CFL Most Outstanding Player for a loop.

Déjà vu all over again

With many returning faces at each position on defence it will take a special player to crack the starting line-up. One race shaping up is at rush end with sophomore Ricky Foley looking very good early on as a candidate to replace NFL-hopeful Chris Wilson. He'll be pushed by the likes of Derek Wake and Eugene Kwarteng in days to come. The Lions secondary remains completely intact from last season and the chatter has begun about who will lead the talented group in interceptions this year. First-year Lion and third-round draft choice Tad Crawford doesn't look out of place at safety and having Barron Miles tutoring the Columbia-grad can't hurt.

Lots of Orange

Five quarterbacks remain in camp for the Lions decked out in orange jerseys with Shawn Bell and Kendrick Dozier displaying exceptional skill through rookie camp and into Monday's sessions. Bell is five months removed from a complete ACL rebuild putting him in Tony Simmons territory in terms of recovery time. Dave Dickenson faced a full complement of media members after his contract extension was announced late Sunday night.

In Good Hands

Jason Clermont, Paris Jackson and Geroy Simon appear to be in fine form catching everything coming their way in the afternoon session. Lions number on draft pick Adam Nicolson also looked steady catching three balls late in the day. Former Surrey Ram, Josh Boden found himself in a scuffle with second-year DB Lionell Green with both players losing their helmets.

Quote of the day

"See with your hands, think with your feet."

-Dan Dorazio (Lions co-offensive coordinator and offensive line coach)

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