***Storm Press Release***
TAMPA BAY – The keywords throughout training camp this season have been “veteran leadership” and “discipline.” With a training camp roster comprised of 17 rookies, it is up to the veterans to teach the younger players and lead by example.
“We have a lot of guys here that are learning the game for the first time,” said wide receiver Michael Lindsey. “That’s why it is important for us to come together as a team and push each other to get better each and every day.”
One thing the players could not get over was how much further along the team seems to be this season.
“We have picked up the tempo the past few days,” said wide receiver Samuel Tranks. “We’re getting our legs back under us which really allows us to go full speed in our scrimmages.”
The improvement in play and camp can be partially attributed to the players. With the ability to sign players for longer than one season, many of the Storm’s veterans returned from last season. It is up to the veterans to lead by example and help set the tone for the younger players.
The other part of the improvement can be attributed to the coaching style of Lawrence Samuels. The team entered camp and immediately began working on tempo. With a hall of fame player as its coach, the team is learning a lot about the game of football and what it takes to succeed.
“This game is so fast when compared to the outdoor game,” said quarterback Stephen Garcia. “We’re learning so much football from coach Samuels. He’s a great coach and he’s taught us a lot these past few days.”
Looking Ahead: Tomorrow will be the first-of-two roster cut down days. The roster will be cut to 28 players and must be handed into the League office by 5:00pm CT.
Coaches Perspective: On facing the Jacksonville Sharks this coming Sunday, March 2, head coach Lawrence Samuels said, “Playing Jacksonville will really help us out. It will let us know where we are as a team and get the guys acclimated to real in-game situations as we get closer to the regular season.”
Quote of the Day: On the speed of the arena football game, quarterback Randy Hippeard said, “The arena game is so fast and if you blink you could miss 30 points. That’s why training camp is so important so that we can get our timing down as we approach the season.”
Alumni Sighting: Former Storm defensive back Deonte Bolden stopped by training camp today to see how the Storm looked as it reaches the midpoint of training camp.
“I like what I saw out there from the defensive backs. You could tell the veterans are leading by example and showing the young guys how to make plays. That’s what you need in football. You need the vets to take the lead.”
Player Spotlight: Wide receiver Justin Hilton entered his first training camp with the Storm this season. The Kissimmee, Florida native played two games for the Storm late in the 2013 season reeling in five passes for 95 yards and two touchdowns. He spent time with the Tennessee Titans (NFL) and Hamilton Tiger-Cats (CFL). The former Indiana State Sycamore impressed the coaching staff with his pass catching ability hauling in several deep passes during today’s scrimmage.
The Five-Time World Champion Tampa Bay Storm enters its 27th season in the Arena Football League. The 2014 season kicks off on Amalie Motor Oil Field at the Tampa Bay Times Forum on Friday, March 14 at 7:30 PMversus South Division rival New Orleans VooDoo. For more specific details regarding single-game pricing and availability, please contact the Storm ticket office at 813.301.6600or visit www.tampabaystorm.com. Season tickets can be purchased by visitingTampaBayStorm.com or by calling813.301.6600. 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.