Indiana University Athletics
Hoosiers Conduct First Practice of 2006
8/7/2006 12:00:00 AM | Football
Aug. 7, 2006
BLOOMINGTON, Ind. - The Indiana football team officially opened the 2006 campaign with its first practice of the season on Aug. 7 under second-year head coach Terry Hoeppner. Following two days of meetings and housekeeping, all 105 healthy Hoosiers hit the field for the first time for what will be an exciting year of IU football.
The Hoosiers opened practice with position drills, focusing on technique, footwork and working as a cohesive unit. Following warm-ups, the quarterbacks, led by junior Blake Powers warmed up their arms, while the extra point and field goal teams practiced.
Indiana transitioned into 1-on-1 drills, where freshmen wide receivers Andrew Means, Nick Polk and senior Lance Bennett all hauled in great catches.
The receiving corps continued to look strong in the 7-on-7 drill. Sophomore James Bailey impressed fans when he pulled in a 20-yard pass before using his quickness and agility to gain 10 more yards. Five plays later, freshman Demetrius McCray pulled down a short pass and utilized his speed to fake out defenders to squeeze out a few more yards.
To close practice, the offense and defense parted ways. While the defense worked on footwork and technique, the offensive linemen were put to the test, concentrating on run and pass protection. Freshman Ray Fisher, McCray, junior Josiah Sears and sophomore Marcus Thigpen took turns at running back.
IU opens its campaign with the first of seven contests at "The Rock" against Western Michigan at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 2. The game will also serve as Youth Football Day. Youth football players, coaches and families may purchase tickets for $10 each, a $27 savings from the game day price of $37. The discount is available only on advance sales and not on game day purchases. For Indiana football ticket information, please call the IU Athletic Ticket Office at 866-IUSPORTS.
Head coach Terry Hoeppner
On the start of practice:
"This is one of my three favorite days of the football season. Considering everything that goes into getting the 105 together, when they take the field, it's a great feeling."
On where the team is at:
"We are excited about this day. The guys have put in a great winter, spring and summer. The level of conditioning the team reported back in is excellent. The energy, effort and the competition today was pleasing. Despite the heat, it was a great day for the Hoosiers."
Junior quarterback Blake Powers
On the first day of practice:
"I thought we were moving with a lot of speed. We looked crisp. All of the offensive line's work this summer is paying off. The receivers again look strong, and the defense is picking up right where they left off last year."
On summer workouts:
"What we do in the summer is really paying off. We have done a lot of speed and strength this summer, and we have returned in really good shape."
On the year of experience:
"I think it helped me tremendously. I think my decision-making will be on another level. I have a year under my belt, and I think that's only going to help me."
Senior safety Will Meyers
On advice to the newcomers:
"The number one thing I can tell the freshmen is to stay patient. All freshmen come into practice and hope to move straight up the depth chart, but things happen slow. The opportunities will come and when they do, they need to take advantage of it."
On the talent of the freshmen:
"I see a lot of talent and athleticism. They are a fast group. They key for them will be to learn the system."
On the defense:
"We have some playmakers on the defense. We felt that all spring we handled the offense real well, but at the spring game, the offense prevailed. We are definitely strong on both sides of the ball."
Senior offensive lineman Justin Frye:
On Coach Hoeppner:
"I feel like this season we are all on the same page. We trust in him and the entire coaching staff that they are going to put us in a position where we can succeed."
On the start of practice:
"It feels great to get back out here. The summer is good to get stronger, but at the same time, it feels good to get the helmet on and start hitting some people."
On the energy at practice:
"That's a continuation on the summer. We are working hard, and after some time off, we are excited to get back out here and get to work."
On the offensive line:
"They are young and raw, but we have 20 solid guys and a lot of depth. If they can help us out, we will be in good shape."
