Being prepared is an essential factor in college football, its why coaches and players put such emphasis on watching film and having scripted game plans.
The same is true for fans that plan to attend practice during the Blue Raiders’ fall camp this August. Whether you are a faithful fan that has experience attending practice or a rookie visiting practice for the first time, this guide will help you have the best experience possible.
This season practice is open for two, one week periods during fall camp which gives fans an awesome opportunity to get up and close to the Blue Raiders while they prepare for the 2009 season.
Open Week #1 Schedule (August 10-15)Monday, August 10: 3:45 PM to 6:00 PM
Tuesday, August 11: 3:40 PM to 6:05 PM
Wednesday, August 12: 3:45 PM to 6:10 PM
Thursday, August 13: 3:45 PM to 6:20 PM
Friday, August 14: 3:45 PM to 6:15 PM
Saturday, August 15: 8:15 AM - 10:00 AM; 4:10 PM - 6:25 PM
Open Week #2 Schedule (August 26-29)Wednesday, August 26: 4:10 PM to 6:00 PM
Thursday, August 27: 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Friday, August 28: 4:10 PM to 6:20 PM
Saturday, August 29: 11:10 AM to 1:30 PM
*Remember all times are subject to change due to inclement weather
Where is practice held?The Blue Raider practice fields are located on the northwest corner of the Middle Tennessee campus. Both fields are adjacent to the Dean Hayes Track & Soccer Stadium and the Reese Smith Jr. Baseball Stadium. All practices will take place on these fields except for scrimmages unless inclement weather forces a move inside Floyd Stadium.
Where can I park?Parking is available in the large parking lot just off Greenland Drive.
How long is practice?Most practices are usually in the 2-3 hour time range as fall camp is a critical time to get as much learning in as possible. Practice will begin with a period of warm-up drills and will progress into individual work, positional match-ups and then group competition which is similar to a game situation.
What to wear?Make sure to pay close attention to the local weather reports and dress accordingly. Since there is no shade or covered areas prepare for the sun and heat with sunscreen, hats, etc.
Where can I sit?There are metal bleachers located on the North end of the practice fields set up specifically for fans to watch practice.
What is the field setup?There are two full football fields that run North-South and parallel to each other. There is only a small border around each field so we ask that you stay near the bleachers in the North end of the field and always be ready to jump out of the way if a drill is headed in your direction.
Why is there a horn and numbers that change?Similar to the bells in school signal a change in classes, the horn at practice keeps everyone organized. Each day coaches review the plan for practice and develop a very detailed script for the day. Practice is broken down into segments or periods that contain certain drills. The horn signals to players and coaches that it is time to change segments and the rotating number corresponds with the specific period of practice so coaches can always find their place in the day’s script.
Is there food available?No there is no food or drinks sold at practice but there are several convenience stores and restaurants located right across Greenland Drive.
Can I take pictures?No, photography and video is not allowed during practice. However, you can take as many pictures as you like following the end of practice.
Are autographs ok?Absolutely, players and coaches will be available for autographs following each practice.
