Indiana University Athletics
The Time is Now for Thomas
8/16/2006 12:00:00 AM | Football
Aug. 16, 2006
For redshirt freshman Austin Thomas, the time is now. After sitting out his first year in Bloomington, the 6-2 safety is more than ready to make an impact for the Hoosiers in 2006.
As Indiana enters the second week of preseason camp, Thomas has focused all of his energy on learning the defense's intricate system, ensuring that he will be a contributor this season.
"I've spent camp working on improving and really learning the system," Thomas said. "I've focused a lot on learning the coverages, becoming a better tackler and a better player overall. I know what I have to do to be able to make an impact on this team this season."
Thomas will join the likes of seniors Will Meyers, Eric McClurg and Troy Grosfield in the IU defense. He credits much of his development to his veteran counterparts.
"We have a strong group of senior safeties that have helped me transition into the player I am today," Thomas said. "They have coached me up and can teach the system. Will, Troy and McClurg have put in their time here, know the system and understand what we are trying to do. All of them are great leaders on this team and a great support system for me. They are experienced and are great players who know the game inside and out. Being able to be with them and practice with them everyday has helped me tremendously. I hope that a little of what they do rubs off on me."
Thomas believes that Grosfield, McClurg and Meyers' leadership and intensity each day in practice will make the Hoosiers successful this season.
"All three have great understanding of the game and work hard every day and on every play," Thomas continued. "They have tremendous intensity, and they are leaders of this team. Because of them, the defense communicates very well. They come to play everyday and make those around them better."
Thomas, a native of Woodstock, Ga., watched the action from the sidelines last season as he, like most incoming freshmen, redshirted his first collegiate football season. He believes that his redshirt season was critical in his development into a potential starter for Indiana this season.
"I am looking forward to finally being able to play college football this season," Thomas said. "It's been a dream of mine since I stepped on a football field. Having to watch the games from the sidelines last year was tough. As a player, you want to be a part of the action and have the chance to make an impact. That makes you want the opportunities this year that much more. I am definitely ready to play."
The opportunity to step into a starting defensive role is there for Thomas and is something he believes is a long-time coming.
"I am looking forward to taking a role in the defensive backfield this year," Thomas said. "If I get that opportunity, I am going to take advantage of it, no question. I want to make this team better, and if that means stepping up, then I will do it. I will add more speed and definitely depth at the safety position. I won't quit, and you can count on me to bring it every single play."
The Hoosiers will host their Fan Appreciation Day on Saturday, Aug. 19. Activities begin at 11 a.m. with players and coaches available for autographs until noon. A limited number of Kids Zone activities will be available for young Hoosier fans. Fans who have not purchased season tickets will have the opportunity to select their own seat at the stadium until 2 p.m. The IU Ticket Office staff will be on hand to escort fans to available seats and answer any questions. Concession stands will open at 11 a.m. with a full game day menu available including pulled pork, pizza and ice cream.
Indiana will take the field at 12:30 p.m. for warm-ups prior to the Hoosiers' lone scrimmage of fall camp, which will begin at 1 p.m.
