3/25/2002 - Football
Navy Football Team Starts Spring Practice
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ANNAPOLIS, Md.-The Naval Academy football team kicked off the Paul Johnson Era on Monday with a brisk two-hour practice in shorts and helmets. It was the first of 15 spring practices for the Midshipmen.
"I thought the enthusiasm was pretty good today," said Johnson. "We threw a lot of stuff at them really quick and tried to get a lot of guys reps, hopefully we will have a better idea in a couple of days and can set some type of pecking order. We have to learn how to listen and do all the things that come with a being a better football team. The guys were excited to be out here, and that is good.
Guys were trying to do the right things, be in the right place. It is too early to tell about a whole lot of anything, our big thing is to play hard and try and get better every day. Hopefully Wednesday when we come out we will be better then we were today. There will be more familiarity and guys will be more aware of what they are doing."
Senior offensive tackle David Walsh, said the seniors have taken it upon themselves to step up and be leaders.
"There was great enthusiasm out here. The senior class has taken charge. The coaching staff is great; everything has a purpose to it. What we talk about in meetings is exactly what happens on the field. The attitude of the team starts with the seniors and it is our job to get everyone focused on getting better as a football team."
Junior corner Shalimar Brazier noticed right away a change in practice habits demanded by the new coaching staff.
"Today was really intense, from the first drill on," said Brazier. "The tempo of practice was incredible. Everyone was full speed the entire time. Coach (Buddy) Green (new defensive coordinator) puts the emphasis on the little things that helps you make plays and if you make plays you win games. The whole team is excited. You can feel the excitement in the locker room, on the practice field, during conditioning."
The Mids will practice again on Wednesday at 4 p.m. on the grass practice fields. Practices are open to the media and general public.
Notes
*Senior defensive end Dan Person will miss spring ball after having his left shoulder operated on. He is expected to be 100 percent by the fall.
*The Mids will practice in full pads for the first time on Friday. Navy's first scrimmage will be Saturday, April 6 at 9 a.m. at Navy-Marine Corps.
