Training Camp Day 1
Kamloops – 196 days after their 2015 season came to an end with a playoff loss in Calgary, BC Lions players took to the field for day one of training camp at Hillside Stadium. Despite chilly temperatures in the morning , optimism was in the air for the first of two non-padded practices. The sun was out for most of the afternoon session. Rookies who took part in the three-day mini camp starting Wednesday looked like they benefited from the extra reps, and were excited to be greeted with some veteran presence and competition. During positional drills, Khari Jones had his unit practice the ‘no huddle’ offence as tempo and fast-paced continue to be a main theme in camp. Wally Buono addressed the importance of those factors while addressing the team after morning practice. To close out the day, the GM/head coach saluted Solomon Elimimian for his dedication to getting healthy following last season’s Achillies injury which kept him out for the last 12 games.
WHO STOOD OUT:
Quarterbacks Jonathon Jennings and Travis Lulay looked sharp and focused following an offseason filled with contract discussion and injury rehab respectively. Lulay says it is the best he has felt on day one since 2013.
On the offensive line, Tim O’Neill didn’t miss a beat despite being shifted over to left guard from his natural centre position. Cody Husband took first team reps. at centre, while O’Neill was switching in and out with rookie Dillon Guy.
Terrence Jeffers-Harris drew praise from wide receivers coach Marcel Bellefeuille and some excitement from teammates for his routes and catching ability turning offensive drills.
Defensively, Alex Bazzie and Zach Minter showed some intensity during individual drills. Free agent acquisition Brandon Stewart pumped the tires of Ronnie Yell, saying the defensive back has potential to be one of the CFL’s best.
On special teams, Richie Leone was punting with authority, managing to been the returners inside the five-yard line on a couple of occasions. Newcomer JC Coleman looked comfortable returning kicks after getting some coaching from Geroy Simon during mini-camp.
QUOTES OF NOTE:
“Football is football. Everything is well co-ordinated and it went very smoothly If you don’t change, you get left behind.”- Buono on his first opening day as a head coach since 2011.
“I am trying to lead the young guys and mold them into the next 10-12 year veterans. I have a feeling the best is yet to come.” Ryan Phillips on being back for his 12th training camp
TOMORROW’S SCHEDULE:
Training Camp Day 2:
Morning Practice: 8:30am- 10:15 am ( non-padded practice)
Afternoon Practice: 3:30PM- 5:30pm ( non-padded practice)
WATCHING:
Defensive backs Willie Creear ( groin) and Brennan Van Nistelrooy ( ankle) sat out for a third straight day. Indications are both have improved on a daily basis.
TRANSACTIONS
The club released Defensive lineman Lazarius Levingston on Sunday.