Golden Bears Don Pads for the First Time

Sunday, August 9, 2009

Fairfield, AL - The Golden Bears opened camp with over 90 players, as they put on pads for the first time today. They have been working out in helmets and shells for several days. The players hit one-on-one and seven-on-seven. “Today was our first day in pads and it gave them a little induction into some good hard hitting. The coaching staff was quite pleased and happy with how the guys response to our teaching and coaching.” said head coach Billy Joe. “Our first couple of practices basically gave us an opportunity to asset the returning condition of each player and we were surprised to see 98% of them returned in very good condition. Of course, we will not be satisfied until 100% come back in shape. This year we had far more guys to come back in excellent game condition than last year.” said Coach Joe. “Our veterans came back in much better shape than last year and had a better knowledge of our system, so we are able to move forward faster. Because, we have a number of new players from JUCO and Division I transfers, we want to take our time and not move so fast, as to leave them behind. They have talent and will impact the team, while a few should start. In the next couple of weeks, the team will split practice time between one-a-day and two-a-day practices.