FOOTBALL

Football: Norwich Wraps Up First Week Of Practice

NORTHFIELD, Vt. - The Norwich University football team is concluding its first week of fall camp on Friday (Aug. 21) with its first installment of two-a-days. The Cadets, who started practice last Sunday (Aug. 16), have been working hard all week long in preparation for their 2009 campaign.

The team began camp with 125 players, the largest group to ever assemble for a Norwich preseason. After checking in on Saturday, the Cadets hit the practice field in shorts, jerseys and helmets on Sunday for the very first time.

This year's freshman class, which numbers more than 60, is one of biggest and most fit groups that Norwich has seen in quite some time. The veterans all came back bigger and in great shape, as well, making this year's camp a very competitive one.

Fifth-year head coach Shawn McIntyre and his staff put the players through several drills on the first day. Monday was more of the same, with the players in helmets, shorts and jerseys. On Tuesday, shoulder pads were added, but contact was still limited. Wednesday's practice was similar to Tuesday's, with the coaching staff increasing the number of repetitions in the "team" portion of the practice.

Thursday morning brought the first day of "full pads" and the players were finally allowed to tackle each other. The onset of full pads brings interesting drills, which involve one-on-one tackling and hitting during the "team" periods too.

Spirits on the practice field appear to be high as the Cadets continue to get ready for their 2009 season opener at Western New England College on Sept. 5. Norwich kicks off its home schedule on Sept. 12, when St. Lawrence visits Sabine Field for a 1:30 p.m., contest.