Rattler Training Camp Rolls On
Published on January 11, 2006 under Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
Arizona Rattlers News Release
PHOENIX - After five days of training camp, the two 2006 Arizona Rattlers seemed to be taking form while preparing for their scrimmage against the Las Vegas Gladiators on Monday, January 16.
The team, who took in two practices on Tuesday and Wednesday, will take Thursday off before practicing two more times on Friday. They will practice once on Saturday before they head to Las Vegas.
"We have come a long way in that past five days," said Rattler head coach Gene Nudo. "After the next two days we should be ready for our scrimmage. I am very pleased with what I have seen thus far."
Here is a brief breakdown of what took place in the camp's fourth and fifth days.
QUARTERBACK
The Rattlers added veteran quarterback Nick Rolovich to compete for the backup role along with Travis Cole and Dennis Gile. Rolovich, who was a backup in San Jose the past two seasons, looked like he is ready to make a run at a roster spot.
WIDE RECIEVERS
Second-year returnee Wilson Thomas looked good during sets of one-on-one drills the last two days. His size and agility could make a nice addition to the Rattler receiving corps. Justin Taplin, who rejoins the Rattlers this season, appears to be in season form and ready to go.
DEFENSIVE BACKS
Rookie Talib Wise has made an impact with coaches, displaying his speed and coverage ability.
LINEBACKERS
Veterans Bo Kelly and Frank Trentadue have led most of the drills as neither seems to have lost a step while providing guidance for the new additions.
LINEMAN
Ricky Gaspar, an af2 free agent pickup, has continued to catch the eye of Rattler line coach Ed Flanagan. Returning lineman Steve Mascarro appears to be continuously improving throughout camp.
CAMP NOTES
Earlier this week the team waived WR/DB Kenyatte Morgan and released WR/LB Ricky Ross. FB/LB Asi Faoa joins WR/DB Corey Johnson and OL/DL Steve Warren on the physically unable to perform list with an ankle injury. In addition to signing QB Nick Rolovich, the team signed OL/DL Ricky Gaspar and FB/LB Kelron Sykes.
CAMP SCHEDULE
All practice sessions are open to the media and public. Players and coaches will be made available for interviews throughout the practice sessions. Contact the Rattlers media relations department for up-to-date practice information (602) 514-8302.
Thursday, January 12 OFF DAY
Friday, January 13 8:20 am - 10:20 am 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Saturday, January 14 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Sunday, January 15 TRAVEL TO LAS VEGAS
Monday, January 16 SCRIMMAGE vs. Las Vegas (Thomas and Mack Center, 3 pm)
Tuesday, January 17 2:00- 4:00 pm
Wednesday, January 18 8:20 am - 10:20 am 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Thursday, January 19 8:20 am - 10:20 am 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Friday, January 20 8:20 am - 10:20 am 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Saturday, January 21 10:00 am - Noon
Sunday, January 22 Roster cut down day
All practices will be held at Veterans Memorial Coliseum.
The Rattlers will kick off their 15th season in the 20-year-old Arena Football League on Sunday, January 29 on the road against the Los Angeles Avengers. The game is set to kick off at 1:00 p.m. and will be televised on NBC. Nine game ticket packages can be purchased by calling 602-514-TDTD.
Arena Football League (1987-2008) Stories from January 11, 2006
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