Training Camp Day 9: June 6
Kamloops – Only three days of double practices remain before the Lions hop on a plane to Regina for the first live game action of 2016. Wally Buono was happy with how his players performed in the no huddle drills as tempo continues to be a major focus of camp. Along with hurry up offence, there was more focus on team drills and also some two-point conversion practice in the morning padded session. Roster news to report: Receiver Lavelle Hawkins informed the club of his intention to retire. He will now pursue a firefighting career in his home of Stockton, California. The club officially placed him on the suspended list Monday evening.
WHO STOOD OUT:
Kendrick Ings, who was playing with the first stringers after Hawkins’ departure, performed well and continued to use speed to his advantage. Ings also made a nice grab in the corner of the end zone during two-point conversion drills. The catch of the day went to Nic Moore, who leaped in the air and to haul in a toss from Jonathon Jennings during team play. Manny Arceneaux had an excellent afternoon session, highlighted by a one-handed grab. Buono saluted him for being one of the more hardworking guys at camp. Colin Lockett, back practicing after dealing with his injury, made a nice over the shoulder grab in the afternoon. Chris Rainey, now 100 percent after dealing with a hand injury to start camp, performed well in the running game and on special teams. He had a nice block on a field goal attempt.
The defensive line showed up to play in padded practice with the likes of Alex Bazzie, George Uko and Ese Mrabure putting pressure on the offence all morning. In the secondary, Loucheiz Purifoy and newcomer Royce Adams both had interceptions, while TJ Lee III had a nice breakup of Arceneaux in the two-point drills.
Buono saluted the entire special teams unit for an excellent job on day nine.
QUOTES OF NOTE:
“It’s disappointing to have a player of his calibre move on. It’s early enough that hopefully we can rebound with the candidates we have.”- Buono on Hawkins’ decision to leave.
“It;s about picking up the terminology and not being the weakest link of the group. You’re closer to the action.”- Steven Clarke on his offseason switch to the nickel position from strong side corner.
“The gum is melted.”- Richie Leone on the effects of the Kamloops heat.
TOMORROW’S SCHEDULE:
Training Camp Day 10:
Morning Practice: 8:30-10:30AM (helmets only)
Afternoon Practice: 3:30-5:30 PM ( padded practice)
WATCHING:
Safety Brennan Van Nistelrooy (ankle) defensive linemen Jacques Smith ( knee) Zach Minter, ( hip flexor) and Bryant Turner Jr., (hamstring) offensive lineman Levy Adcock ( lower body) and defensive back Darius Lane (lower body) did not participate. Receiver Geraldo Boldewijn took part in a few drills as he continues to recover from his hamstring injury. Buono expects him to be ready for Saturday in Regina.
TRANSACTIONS:
Placed on suspended list: Receiver Lavelle Hawkins- notified club of his intention to retire.