Aug. 1, 2012
="" alt="Twitter Logo" border="0" class="imported"> ="" alt="Facebook Logo" border="0" class="imported"> UCF Athletics Social Media Directory
By Brian Ormiston
UCFAthletics.com
ORLANDO, Fla. (UCFAthletics.com) - The long wait finally came to an end Wednesday when the 2012 UCF football team took the field for the first time, marking the beginning of preseason camp on campus. Inclement weather in the area at the beginning of practice forced the Knights inside Nicholson Fieldhouse for the session.
"I thought we got a lot of reps in...I'm more concerned about effort right now. If they are showing good effort then you can work on technique with them. It's when they don't have effort is when everything falls by the wayside," said ninth-year head coach George O'Leary. "I was pleased with the first day. I thought they hustled around and took coaching. I think you'll see more as we get more installation done, and obviously when we put pads on I think it'll tell the difference as far as who is ready to play this year."
While sophomore Blake Bortles took over the quarterback spot, a trio of wide receivers opened some eyes inside the fieldhouse Wednesday. True freshman Breshad Perriman made a leaping grab over the defense near the left sideline early in the day. Former quarterback Jeff Godfrey dazzled with two 39-yard touchdown receptions in a span of three plays. The first came in the right corner of the endzone as he made a quick adjustment for an over-the-shoulder catch, then made a diving snag moments later as both passes came from Rob Calabrese. Trying to duplicate Godfrey, sophomore Josh Reese also brought in a long touchdown grab in the back of the endzone.
Also of note on offense, offensive tackle Chris Martin put on No. 88 and saw time at tight end.
All practices from Aug. 1-18 are open to the public, and fans are reminded that taking notes, pictures or video is not permitted. All sessions run from 3:15-5:30 p.m. with the exception of Thursday, which is set for 9:10-11:30 a.m. (times are subject to change).
Also during August, the Countdown to Kickoff Luncheon will take place Thursday, Aug. 16, at the UCF Arena from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. To reserve a spot at the luncheon, call (407) 823-2086. Meanwhile, the popular UCF Football FanFest will occur Saturday, Aug. 18, and more details of the free event will be announced soon.
UCF football season tickets are currently available for as low as $140, while single-game tickets and flex plans are also on sale. For more information and to place an order, call the UCF Ticket Office at (407) UCF-1000 or visit UCFAthletics.com. Attending a UCF football game is a great way to celebrate birthdays, corporate outings or any special occasion. Please ask about group packages today.