University of Memphis Athletics
Tigers Hold First Practice of 2005 Season
Aug 12, 2005 | Football
Aug. 12, 2005
MEMPHIS, TENN. - The University of Memphis Tiger football team had its first official practice of the 2005 season Friday morning at 5:45 a.m. at the Murphy Athletic Complex.
The squad worked out in shorts under the lights during the early morning hours. Despite cooler temperatures, humidity was still a factor, but the well-conditioned Tigers never seemed to be affected.
The practice session, which lasted under an hour and a half, concentrated primarily on drills that the newcomers will be required to participate in along with the varsity. The special teams unit remained on the field for an additional session following the team practice.
"The thing that impressed me the most today was that we are so much further along than we were the last couple of years at this time," said Coach Tommy West. "A lot of that has to do with the retention of coaches and players in this program. That makes it easier to get going right away."
The newcomers will go through academic orientation later this afternoon and will be featured guests at tonight's annual Highland Hundred Kickoff Banquet at the Holiday Inn-University of Memphis. The event is slated for a 7 p.m. start and is open to the public for an admission of $10.
