Storm Training Camp - Day Five

Published on March 6, 2013 under Arena Football League (AFL)
Tampa Bay Storm News Release


TAMPA BAY - Today the Tampa Bay Storm conducted drills that focused on improving its field goal percentage. In non-ideal arena football conditions, due to a slight gust of wind, second-year Storm kicker Juan Bongarra worked on his form and technique as he converted many of his field goal attempts.

"You really can't compare kicking outdoors to indoors," said Bongarra. "It's more about getting technique down. If the technique is smooth, you should be able to translate what you do outside to the indoor game."

Working on field goals will be important this season. Last year the Storm ranked thirteenth in the league, converting only 5-of-17 field goal attempts. This is something that the team and Bongarra intend to improve this coming season.

After the kicking drills, the Storm took the field for team drills; working on defending the run, and also the pass. These drills drew cheers from the crowd as there were many acrobatic catches, and interceptions.

The day was highlighted by a pair of interceptions by defensive backfield teammates, Bryan Evans and Rashad Barksdale. The defensive line also got in on the action with defensive lineman R.J. Roberts making it very hard for his quarterback to complete a pass. Roberts, using his speed, came off the end and deflected several passes creating opportunities for his teammates to cause some turnovers.

Coaches' Perspective: On the new defense and the commitment of the players, Storm head coach said, "The new guys and the veteran leadership have helped this defense. We knew we had to get better and we brought in guys that were committed to defense."

Quote of the Day: On playing for the Storm this season, Storm receiver and Tampa native Greg Ellingson said, "I love being back home. I remember going to Storm games as a kid and seeing all of those championship banners; it feels great to play for a team with such a long history."

Player Spotlight: Storm defensive back Bryan Evans enters his second year in the Arena Football League and first with the Tampa Bay Storm. Last season Evans played in seven games for South Division rival Jacksonville Sharks. The former Georgia Bulldog is fitting in well with the new defensive scheme. During team drills this morning he had the first interception of training camp drawing cheers from his fellow teammates.

The Five-Time World Champion Tampa Bay Storm was awarded the 2012 AFL Support Staff of the Year. The 2013 season kicks off at home Saturday, March 23 at 7:30 PM versus South Division rival Jacksonville Sharks. Single game tickets can be purchased online at Ticketmaster.com, by calling 800.745.3000 or by visiting the McDonalds© Ticket Office at the Tampa Bay Times Forum. Season tickets can be purchased by visiting TampaBayStorm.com or by calling 813.301.6600. 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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