TicketsAug. 7, 2007
- PHOTO GALLERY
CINCINNATI-- Going through a gauntlet that included officers from the Hamilton County Clerk of Courts, official photographers, and the local media, the University of Cincinnati football team felt like the day was done at 11:30 a.m., but the real work did not begin until the squad put its full equipment for the first time in the afternoon's heat.
Garbed in full equipment for the first time during the 2007 preseason, the Bearcats conducted a spirited two-hour practice session at Nippert Stadium. The anticipation of full contact quickly washed away after the first few hits of pad-on-pad. The afternoon practice looked similar to the first four workouts of the preseason.
"We don't change the way we practice once we put on full gear," Kelly said. "We expect the same every day and we won't let them practice any other way."
The day began for the Bearcats with the Bearcats completing more than 125 passport applications with the assistance of the Hamilton County Clerk of Courts Office on site. The process is mandated by the BIG EAST Conference for any team eligible to play in the 2008 International Bowl. They moved on to individual photos on the field, before participating in the annual team photo.
After photos, interviews and lunch, the Bearcats returned for practice at 3:05 p.m.
"I think you want to see how guys react once we put on the pads," Kelly said. "Players look good in the weight room and conditioning, but how do they look once we `turn the lights on'? Today was the first day to see how guys will handle contact."
In a move to try and avoid the extreme heat forecasted, the squad will alter its practice schedule for both Wednesday and Friday's two-a-day sessions. The morning practice will begin at 9:05 and conclude at 11:05 a.m. The evening session will get underway at 7:05 and wrap up at 9:05 p.m. Both practices are scheduled to be held at Nippert Stadium.