This Jaguars fan attends her first training camp

Open training camp sessions for the Jacksonville Jaguars is something every fan should experience at least once.

I enjoyed my first ever Jacksonville Jaguars training camp experience and have many impressions to share.

If you get the chance to attend one of the open practice sessions next season, please know that training camp is free to attend. Tickets are ordered online and delivered to your phone.  Rules as to what you can carry into the stadium are the same as on the day of the game.

Next, I have several suggestions for those who decide to attend training camp. It’s very hot and there is no shade so it’s best to prepare with plenty of hydration, sunscreen, and protective clothing.  The general admission stands are pretty far from the action so binoculars are a huge help.

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If you want autographs, the players for a particular day are available after the training session is concluded. Don’t forget to wear your Jaguars gear.

The practice field was much larger than I expected.  As I looked around it suddenly hit me that I was looking at a very large P.E. class. It was a bit overwhelming at first. There were groups of players divided by position group working on drills that are pertinent to what they will do in a game situation. Many coaches and assistants are watching and available for help or criticism if needed.

I learned quite a bit from watching punter Logan Cooke and how training is done. The task of punting is broken down into its component parts.  First, he worked on catching the ball thrown by a coach.  Next, he practiced dropping the ball to his foot. Then he kicked very short lobs. Finally, he combined the components and punted.  It’s classic educational theory used in football…who knew!

I enjoyed watching the game simulation drills the most. The offense is easier to observe. Nick Foles walked into the huddle with a calm confidence and command of the situation that gave me hope for 2019. His passes were accurate as well.

The 2017 version of Leonard Fournette was on the field. He made one particular run that showed why we love him. The receivers looked good. DJ Chark opened my eyes as he ran down the sideline on one play. Keelan Cole had one notable drop but caught other passes. This is good news for our young receivers.

The downside of the offense was the lack of firepower from the backup quarterbacks and the offensive line that appears to be a work in progress. The defense played flag football so it was hard to judge.

Finally, if you want a break from the heat there is some shopping available. A Fanatics booth was stocked with every imaginable type of Jaguars gear. They had t-shirts and jerseys of past players on sale  There was a Jaguars Foundation booth that allowed you to spin of the prize wheel for a $10 donation. The prized included t-shirts, can holders, hats, and other Jaguars gear. There were food and drinks available for purchase as well.

I arrived in my Ramsey jersey and left with a t-shirt, can holder, a clear plastic tote for game day, a fan, and a lanyard.

Put training camp on your calendar for next year. I guarantee you will have a fun day.