Aug. 10, 2008
ORLANDO, Fla. (www.ucfathletics.com) - The UCF football team continued its preparations for the 2008 campaign on Sunday with a two-hour afternoon practice. The Knights worked out inside Nicholson Fieldhouse.
UCF features one of the most experienced defenses in Conference USA this season. The unit includes 20 letterwinners from a year ago and the group, led by four senior starters in the secondary, has looked sharp during the squad's preseason camp.
After Sunday's practice, head coach George O'Leary was asked by a member of the media about the strength of the team's defense compared to UCF's younger offense.
"I never give anybody credit," joked O'Leary. "I think the defense is playing with a lot of effort and good speed."
? One week from today, UCF will hold its select-a-seat and fan day at Bright House Networks Stadium. UCF Athletics representatives will be at the stadium from 1-6 p.m. to help fans purchase new season tickets. Fan day, which will include an autograph session with the Knights, is set to begin at 4:30 p.m. and is free to the public.
? Following practice, O'Leary was asked if any of the team's true freshmen running backs - Brandon Davis, Brynn Harvey, Brendan Kelly and Latavius Murarry - had stood out so far in camp. "They are all about the same," said O'Leary. "I want to get three [of them] to help us this year."
? Large crowds were on hand yesterday to watch the Knights practice on two occasions. Around 100 fans crowded into the fieldhouse to view the team's practice Sunday.
? UCF's next practice is slated for Monday afternoon, starting around 3:20 p.m.
The Knights' season opener is scheduled for Aug. 30 against South Carolina State at Bright House Networks Stadium. The Knights will play six contests at the on-campus facility in 2008.
Season tickets are currently available. To order season tickets, or to learn more about attending games at Bright House Networks Stadium, call 407-UCF-1000.
The Knights went 10-4 last season, captured the C-USA Championship and participated in the AutoZone Liberty Bowl.
For the latest news on the Knights, log on to www.UCFAthletics.com - the official site for UCF varsity sports. The site, which also contains ticket and Golden Knights Club donor information, is also the home of UCF's new online apparel store. Also visit www.UCFPhotos.com, the exclusive fan source for UCF action sports pictures.