Troy University announced on Apr. 14 that its football program will return to a traditional spring game format for the first time in several years. Head coach Gerad Parker is concluding his third spring practice with the Trojans and said the team is preparing to showcase their efforts in front of fans.
The move to a more conventional spring game is intended to give supporters an authentic look at the team’s progress. “I want our fans to see us in a more traditional way of playing football, and I do think one of the commitments we’ve made is playing more football and playing it like a game,” Parker said. “It’s helped us (during spring camp) to put a ball down and just play. We’re going to be friendly to our fans, we’re going to make sure we entertain them.”
The Trojans practiced on both grass fields behind Trojan Arena and inside their new Indoor Practice Facility as they prepared for T-Day. Reflecting on recent practices, Parker said, “We’re going to choose hard around here. That was our best practice; I don’t know what we executed like, but I can tell you we fought each other and there was a lot of friction. I’m proud of what this team did today, it was hard, and it was our most physical day.”
With thirteen practices completed this spring, Parker highlighted his observations about the team’s character and discipline: “I’m impressed by the lack of drama and emotion, we have emotional control,” he said. “We have not had one fight break out, and we’ve played very physical. There has been a huge commitment to make sure we practice everything we’re doing to get ready to play games. This team is pretty connected and close considering the amount of new that we have.”
Kickoff for T-Day will take place at 1 p.m., with free admission at The Vet stadium. Activities planned for attendees include stadium tours, brunch with former players referred to as Legends, Kids Camp activities, and a yard sale.
