Marshall University Athletics
Herd Goes Through First Two-A-Day Sessions
8/11/2003 12:00:00 AM | Football
Herd Goes Through First Two-A-Day Sessions
8/11/2003
The Herd opened two-a-days on Monday. (photo by Kimmie Nickell) |
The Marshall Thundering Herd opened two-a-days today and, even though Mother Nature didn't provide the best conditions, the Herd was able to dodge the rain and get in two solid practices.
?The first two-a-day practices went well,? head coach Bob Pruett said. ?We managed to dodge the weather and I think we got a little better today.?
The Herd spent much of the morning practice in team drills. The afternoon practice focused a lot on special teams, a major area of concern entering the season.
One of the main focuses when practicing twice a day is the overall health of the squad.
There are a lot of precautions the sports medicine staff and players take to stay healthy.
?Mainly, we just have to take more precautions,? head trainer Jeff Carrico said. ?We need to make sure the players are drinking enough fluids and maintaining a proper diet.?
The NCAA introduced a new rule this season obligating schools to alternate their two a day practices.
?I think this new rule will help the recovery period for the athletes,? Carrico said. ?When practicing twice a day we incorporate a three hour block of time between practices, so the athletes have time to recuperate properly.?
One player that agrees with the building up process to two-a-days is senior specialist Ben Lewis.
?I like the fact that we worked up to two-a-day practices," Lewis said. "I think it saves everyone?s legs, and our down time is spaced out better.?
The Herd will switch gears tomorrow, practicing once in the afternoon with practice slated to start at 4:30 p.m.
The Herd will open the 2003 season on August 30 at home against Hofstra.
-- by Kimmie Nickell (Marshall Sports Information)
