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Storm Training Camp - Day Nine

March 15, 2015 - Arena Football League (AFL)
Tampa Bay Storm News Release


TAMPA BAY - Day nine of Storm training camp started out with some light conditioning, keeping players in shape for the upcoming season. The team would then move on to a non-padded practice, keeping the players healthy as we head to the start of the 2015 season.

"It was very important to get the pads off and give the players a little breather," said defensive backs coach Michael Feagin. "We're at the midway point of camp. We have a few days left and now it's time to compete."

Taking the pads off for the day really gave the team a breather. It's important for the team to take the pads off in order to stay fresh. With the pads off, the players cannot go full speed which limits the contact and can prevent injury.

"They're trying to keep the guys healthy by letting us take the pads off," said defensive back and wide receiver Terrence Mitchell. "It takes some of the pounding off of the guys. We still were able to work on our timing, but just to be able to take the pads off for a practice is good for the players, especially heading into the next few days."

Day nine of training camp also saw increased intensity on the defensive side of the ball.

With the tension already high, the defensive coaching had their players turn up the heat. With the defensive line applying the pressure, the offense had all they could handle. Applying the pressure created turnovers, and the defensive backfield capitalized on the miscues.

"We're definitely becoming a more cohesive unit," said defensive back James Harrell. "We all started talking early to get to know each other. We have few new faces out there in the backfield, so we're all hanging out and getting to know each other."

The players will put the pads back on for tomorrow's practice as it enters the home stretch of training camp.

Coach's Perspective: "We're in the final few days of camp," said Feagin. "Now's the time for the guys to show us what they can do both offensively and defensively. The more they can show us the better our evaluation process will be when we make the final roster."

Training Camp Venue: The Storm will continue practicing at Skyway Park for the remainder of training camp. All practices run from 8:15 a.m. - 11:15 a.m. Media availability begins at 11:30 a.m.

Player Spotlight: Uriah Grant is in the spotlight for day nine of Storm training camp. Grant is entering his second season with the Storm after having a productive rookie season. He finished his first season in the Arena Football League with 12.5 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, a fumble recovery and a blocked kick.

The Miramar, FL native began his professional career with the Jacksonville Jaguars (NFL) in 2013. He finished his collegiate career at Mississippi where he started in 11-of-22 games for the Rebels. Today, Grant used his speed and hands in team drills, impressing the coaching staff and the rest of his linemates. Look for him to improve on these qualities as we head to the end of training camp.

The Five-Time World Champion Tampa Bay Storm enters its 28th season in the Arena Football League. The Storm opens up the 2015 season, Friday, March 27, when it takes on the Cleveland Gladiators, on AMALIE Motor Oil Field at AMALIE Arena. For more specific details regarding single-game pricing and availability, please contact the Storm ticket office at 813.301.6600 or visit www.tampabaystorm.com. Season tickets can be purchased by visiting TampaBayStorm.com or by calling 813.301.6600. For group sales fans can contact 813.301.6900. 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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