Successful Training Camp

Our training camp has concluded with a successful scrimmage against the Zurich Renegades. Camp went well and we were able to install most of our offense and defense. We did have to content with some sub par weather though. On Wednesday morning we went through the 4 seasons in a two hour practice. There was dreary, cold rain, snow, and then pleasant sunshine. Kind of crazy, but it is what you get in a mountain town this time of year.

The best part of the whole camp and scrimmage was that we came away without any injuries. Not even a hold your breath just get up type of moment either. A team with as few players as us can not afford to lose even one player.

The Renegades were a solid team and a great matchup to see where we are at. It was a very even scrimmage throughout. Both teams made some plays and did some good and not so good things. We were very sharp during our 7 on 7 period and threw the ball fairly well when we went 11 on 11 as well. That was certainly encouraging since we have felt from the beginning that would be a strength.

Our run game and line play was solid at times and suspect at others. Right now that is without a doubt my biggest fear and concern. We need to get better on the offensive line or we won't be able to do much of anything. All great teams can run the ball and right now we are struggling to consistently do that. We have flashes and moments, but not enough consistency. There is help on the way though.

Chris Osborne a OL/DL from Elizabeth City College is arriving on Tuesday and will immediately make a difference for us. #1 because he will be another guy who will always be at practice. #2 because he should be the anchor for our offensive line as well as be an impact player at DT. He won't be playing in our first game vs Budapest Wolves since two practices isn't enough time to digest an entire offensive and defensive playbook. On top of that, this is a game where we get a 3-3. Meaning we can dress 3 Americans and play 3 Americans. It doesn't make sense to sit down one of our Americans who has been here the whole time and understands the entire offense and defense.

The weather here is slowly, but surely starting to change. We are right at that point where winter meets spring. Also known as mud season. I am not sure if that is a good thing or a bad thing. I certainly would like some nicer weather, but at the same time it is gorgeous around here with snow on the mountains.

I kind of find it hard to believe that I have now been here for almost a month. Seems like just yesterday I was packing up my apartment and running all of these errands just to get ready to leave. I think that I have found a good routine and will enjoy my time here. Things are different, but the football has been great despite some of the challenges. No matter where in the world I am, it feels good to be coaching and teaching football.