TAMPA BAY – The Tampa Bay Storm hit the field today for its first day of training camp at Skyway Park, as the team got an early start reporting at 7:00 AM with the day concluding at 3:30 PM. This was the first of three days in only helmets as the team works on installing the defense and a new offense.
There is usually a great deal of excitement and energy the first day, and this day was no different. Today was not different as the team came out with high pace right out of the gate. Defensive back Lendy Holmes recorded the first interception of the day during the first session, while receiver Mark Jones stood out with several acrobatic catches.
Sunday Schedule Change: The practice schedule for Sunday has been changed. The first practice session is now 6:30 AM to 8:30 AM and the second session starts at 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM. Media availability is the 30 minutes following the end of each practice session.
New Look: The team is sporting a new look this season. Prior to the start of training camp the team unveiled a new logo and uniform. That is not the only new look, there are many new faces as well. The team can carry 35 players during training camp. There are 11 returning players from last season’s roster and 24 new faces. For more information on the 2012 training camp roster and transactions throughout training camp visit http://www.tampabaystorm.com/team.
Coaches Perspective: “I was excited to be able to get out of the office and back onto the field,” said Storm head coach Dave Ewart. “The guys, particularly the new ones, showed a lot of enthusiasm and great effort. We threw a lot at [the players] today and I liked what I saw. Tomorrow we will focus on cleaning up some of the mistakes we had today and work on installing our new offense.”
Quote of the Day: Returning veteran, offensive lineman Tom Kaleita on the players participating in their first camp with the Storm, “I thought they came in with great energy, they just have to keep in mind you’re not going to make the team in one day.”
Player Spotlight: In 2012 the Storm struggled in its kicking game as it finished last in the AFL in extra point conversion. Free agent acquisition, kicker, Juan Bongarra was brought in to help improve that facet of the team. He took advantage of a new net system the team has at its practice facility converting many field goals from 45-yards out on the 15-foot high and nine-foot wide net goal posts.
Guest Appearance: Former Tampa Bay Buccaneer and New York Jet Steve White swung by the first day of training camp to take in the action at Skyway Park. He commented on all the new faces, “They look young, but what I see are a group of guys that are coachable. This first day was an encouraging day for them; they have a lot to build on.”
