Dragons Mini Camp Underway
January 10, 2008 - Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
New York Dragons News Release
The New York Dragons skill players took the field today for the first time of the 2008 season with the start of mini camp. Veterans and rookies alike hit the field hard as they prepare for training camp which all 37 players will report for on February 3rd.
QB Aaron Garcia was feeling healthy as he made play after play to a strong group of receivers with Kevin Swayne, Chris Anthony, Jason Willis and Keron Henry all returning from last season.
"It's good to be here. I feel like this is the first time in a long time where I feel healthy out here having a good time and just playing football," said Garcia.
Garcia also expressed how the Horacek trade was difficult but there is a strong receiving core for the 2008 season and how the return of Damien Groce only continues to add to the strength.
"It's always hard to lose a player like Mike. He's a great receiver, a great Dragon, and a great friend," Garcia added. "But looking forward, you bring in a guy like Damien Groce in addition to rookie receivers which really adds to our existing group."
Groce showed excitement for his return to the Dragons where he spent 2002 and 2003 and the same enthusiasm to be a receiver for Garcia once again.
"I'm most looking forward to coming out of that tunnel, that fire going and just being with the best quarterback in Arena Football history," said Groce. "I've been blessed to play with a lot of players but I've been around this league and there is no one that's comes close to that guy. His ability, his drive, all he needs is a championship and I want to be a part of that!"
Overall, the feeling around the practice facility was mutual, shared excitement to get back on the field after an offseason which always feels long.
Willis returns for his second season with the Dragons.
"Yesterday we arrived and just wanted to get out there. We wanted to practice last night. We've been ready," Willis stated. "We're expecting big things this season and this is the start right here!"
Switching to the defense, Billy Parker returns for his third season as a Dragons defensive back and felt the first day of mini camp went smoothly.
"It was a good first day. There was a little competition," said Parker. "We start basic and then grow and learn together so everyone feels like we are on the same page."
Parker will be the veteran to a number of rookie DB's coming into camp this season, including the af2 Defensive Player of the Year, Levy Brown.
"He already knows the game after playing in the af2. He knows what to expect and it's just about getting acclimated to our system," added Parker.
Dragons head coach Weylan Harding was pleased with what he saw on the first day.
"I was pleasantly surprised with how good the guys were as far as how they performed and what good of shape they were in," said Harding. "By holding mini camp, you're looking at getting an early head start. Once you get to training camp it's review."
Harding is also excited for a strong group of DB's this season as he heads the defensive skill position.
Well considering the proven track record we've had with the af2 guys coming in, Levy Brown was a very big acquisition, having a guy like him knowing the game and playing with Billy, learning the scheme," said Harding. "I'm very glad about that and the addition of Ronnie Amadi who is also an af2 alum."
The New York Dragons take the Nassau Coliseum field for the 2008 season on Sunday, March 9th at 3:00pm when they take on the Kansas City Brigade. Season Tickets are on sale now! To reserve the best seats call 1-866-AFL-TIXX today! You can also send an email to TicketInfo@newyorkdragons.com.
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Arena Football League (1987-2008) Stories from January 10, 2008
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- Avengers sign offensive lineman C.J. Blomvall - Los Angeles Avengers
- Dragons Mini Camp Underway - New York Dragons
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- Rush face Rampage in Amtrak Classic - Chicago Rush
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