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Camp Notes Day 12

February 29, 2012 - Arena Football League (AFL)
Tampa Bay Storm News Release


TAMPA BAY - With the clock ticking, the Storm looked to finish training camp on a high note by keeping their bodies healthy and making all the necessary corrections to have a successful 2012 season.

The team started the day practicing an essential aspect of the game, special teams. "Special teams is the final determination," said head coach Dave Ewart. "If you want to play in this league, you have to be able to play on special teams." The team finished the day with live goal line work where the fullbacks saw action on the ground.

The team's practice also brought encouraging words from the veterans. While the secondary worked on hand placement and the switching of assignments, one could hear third-year defensive back Erick McIntosh say, "good work guys." He was also quick to give advice telling his teammates to "look at the QB," and "communicate with each other."

The new guys realize the importance of body maintenance and improvement of skills. "We're looking to keep our bodies healthy, and improve on everything to have a long career in this league," said center Brad Serini. Continuing this sentiment, offensive and defensive lineman Wondell Rutledge said, "there's always room to improve and get better. If you take one day off, someone will be there waiting for your spot."

Tomorrow will be the final training camp session before Friday's roster cut-down.

Coaches Perspective: "We're close to where we need to be," said Ewart while discussing the need to make corrections. "We have some work to do, but we have the tools to be successful."

Quotes of the day: Stressing the importance of tomorrow's final practice session coach Ewart said, "there's a saying out there, "˜it's hard to make the club, if you're in the tub.' Let's get some bodies out here and finish strong."...Knowing how important the final day of practice is, kicker Juan Bongarra stated, "we're all starting to see the finish line. Now the real race begins."

Looking Forward: With only two practices left, the coaching staff will have some tough decisions to make come Friday. "The staff has seen tremendous improvement from the first scrimmage to the second scrimmage," said director of player personnel Dave Wilson. "Everyone has a chance; they're just battling for position at this point."

Comings and Goings: Wide receiver A.J. Jackson was reassigned.

Player Spotlight: The life of a rookie can be hard during the final days of training camp. To cope with the stress they tend to look towards the veterans for support and advice. One of these veterans is Storm offensive lineman George Bussey. Bussey is returning for his second season with the Storm and knows what it feels like to be in the shoes of a first year player. "Everyone here has a good work ethic," said Bussey. "I just tell them to listen to coach Ewart, and improve on something each and every day."

The Five-Time World Champion Tampa Bay Storm celebrates its 25th season in the AFL. The 2012 Season home opener is Friday, March 16 versus South Division rival Georgia Force. 2012 season tickets and four-game packs are currently on sale; those who purchase season tickets in the promenade level receive a free replica Storm jersey per seat commitment and will receive discounts on merchandise and concessions. For more information call 813.301.6600 or visit www.tampabaystorm.com. Additionally fans and sponsors can follow the Storm on Facebook (Tampa Bay Storm) or Twitter (@tampabaystorm) for up to date news and exclusive content.

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The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

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