***Stprm Press Release***
TAMPA BAY – The Storm had a shortened practice today due to poor weather conditions. With the team practicing in the rain, one would think it would be detrimental to learning a game that is played indoors; however that was not the case.
“Working in the rain is actually beneficial for the defensive backs and probably the receivers,” said defensive back Rod Issac. “It helps you focus more on your footwork which will translate to the confined space of the arena.”
In addition, when practicing outdoors you never know what to expect. Practicing out in the elements can be beneficial because it helps the players prepare for anything.
“Playing out in the elements prepares us to be able to handle any situation that we may face in game,” said mac linebacker Rodney Beamon. “We may not have elements inside the arena, but we do face adversity in the unknown and it’s how you respond that counts.”
The rain limited the amount of time the team could actually practice but the coaching staff used it as a way to increase the tempo and work on the speed of the game.
“Practice was definitely up tempo,” said wide receiver Michael Lindsey. “The defense made some great plays out there and it was able to make some stops today.”
The team got in some last minute conditioning exercises before calling it a day.