***Storm Press Release***
TAMPA BAY – After a much needed day off, the Storm was back at it as the team hit the field for day six of this season’s training camp. The day off was important as it gave the players time to unwind and get into the classroom.
“The off day really gives us a chance to get our legs back,” said center Raymond McNeil. “It also gives you a chance to get in the playbook and find out what areas you need to work on.”
This was a sentiment reiterated by the coaching staff.
“The off day is something that we use to get the guys back in the classroom,” said head coach Lawrence Samuels. “We use it to get some plays on the board and look at areas that we can improve.”
Practice consisted of positional drills and then immediately went to a scrimmage. Training camp is a great learning experience for the players. It not only teaches them technique but also shows them the importance of playing in an up tempo, fast paced system.
“The scrimmage is very important because you get to see what you are working with as a unit,” said defensive back Ricky Johnson. “Once we get the scrimmage on film we will see what we can improve on and fix it during practice.”
Tomorrow the team will hit the ground running as it prepares for the first of two roster cut down days. Emotions will be running high as the players give their all to try and make it through the first roster cut down.
Coaches Perspective: On this year’s team, assistant head coach Doug Kay said, “This year is different than last year in many ways. There is a lot of positive thinking, more leadership in all groups, and because of the way we practice, the tempo is better understood than it was last year which is necessary when you're getting ready to play football.”
Quote of the Day: “It feels great to get out here and get in a groove,” said offensive lineman Alfred McCullough. “We’re executing and simulating game speed. The offseason is long so we’ve been working on technique and really getting back into game mode."
Player Spotlight: Today’s player spotlight is on wide receiver Samuel Tranks. The Philadelphia, Pennsylvania native joins the Storm for his first season in the Arena Football League. He played four seasons at Seton Hill University (PA) appearing in 43 games for the Griffins. Tranks also has professional experience having won a Grey Cup Championship (2012) with the Canadian Football League’s Toronto Argonauts. Tranks has shown his ability to catch passes and his speed has not gone unnoticed. He also spent some time on the field with the defensive unit during today’s scrimmage and showed his knack for getting to the receiver quickly and his ability to tackle.