TBPSC/Tampa Bay Sentinels: My Site News: A Good turn out for the 1st mini-camp.

Tampa, FL. 

On Saturday October 11 at Lincoln Gardens Park, the Sentinels kicked off the 2010 season with the 1^st of three mini-camps.  Twenty-two players, new and returning players showed up to the mini-camp where they were timed in the 40yd dash as well as other drills.  New Head Coach Jim Gaczewski who is the founder and original Head Coach of the first Tampa Bay team, the Guardians said, “The turn out was good and we (Coach Gaczewski and the new coaches) told the players what we expect from them and how we are committed to the team”.  Coach Gaczewski also said, “Come the first practice in January, the players will be hitting and doing Oklahoma Drills and he expects fights between players on the practice field.  These types of drills will build heart, character and competitiveness which will transfer to the playing field on game day."

The returning players liked what they saw.  Joe Rickman a second year player said, "The practice was great and there was a good turn out."  Returning and second year player, John Harr said, “The Practice was good and I learned a lot from Coach Porter in the short time we had together.” John also said, “With the three Quarterbacks, we are going to have a Quarterback competition and that’s something we didn’t have last year”.

Mike Gonzalez who is a returning player as well as an original Guardian player said, “The practice was ten times better and more organized than the first two seasons.”

New players such as Andrew Semon who got some work in a center stated, “It was great! Got to learn a lot and met some great people. Of course there was the running as well.” Luke Barritt who played one year in high school as a Tightend had this to say, “Loved it.  Got some good work in with Coach Porter put me at DB and I'm going to enjoy that challenge.  I am looking forward to the next camp.”

Kevin Smith said, "I thought Mini-Camp was great! I had a lot of fun, even though I personally feel I could have given more. This will be my first year playing with the Sentinels, and it was great to see and a well organized team with a professional coaching staff dedicated to winning. I really appreciate the opportunity to be a part of the team and hope that I can make some small impact to achieving success for the 2010 season. Thanks to all who made it possible...Looking forward to the next mini-camp!

The next mini-camp will take place on November 15 at 1400hrs at Lincoln Gardens Park and the coaching staff is expecting more new and returning players to there.