Friedgen, Terps Open Rookie Grid Practices
8/6/2002 8:00:00 AM | Football
Aug. 6, 2002
COLLEGE PARK, Md. -
University of Maryland football coach Ralph Friedgen put his 27 newcomers through a pair of workouts on the opening day of rookie camp on Tuesday, and the second-year Terrapin coach came away impressed at what he saw in the two 90-minute sessions.
"This is a pretty good class," said Friedgen, who will put the Terp rookies through a pair of practices on Wednesday before the full squad works out for the first time Saturday morning. "They have some athletic ability. But they're freshmen and they're nervous."
When asked if he expected any first-year Terps to contribute to a team coming off the school's first ACC title since 1985, Friedgen remarked: "Some will have to."
Later, Friedgen added, "I'm not intending on redshirting anyone. If they can play, we'll play 'em."
"I don't want to put any undo pressure on them, I want them to come in and seek their own level. It's exciting to watch these kids mature and develop. As soon as the varsity gets here, they'll really start to learn how things are done."
The rookie Terps, who were tested in the bench press, vertical jump and 100-meter dash prior to the morning workout, are slated to practice on Wednesday at 9:25 a.m. and again at 4:15 p.m.
Practices are open to Terrapin Club and Maryland Gridiron Network (MGN) members only with advance notice. Those intending to watch practice must call 301-314-7095.
