Aug. 3, 2011
Nashville, Tenn. – The first wave of more than 100 Vanderbilt student-athletes will arrive on campus this afternoon in preparation for the start of James Franklin’s initial Commodore preseason camp.
Franklin, the former University of Maryland assistant head coach and offensive coordinator who has impressed Commodore fans and college football observers with his enthusiasm, energy and purpose since accepting the Vanderbilt post last December, expects to welcome all 21 freshmen from his initial signing class on Wednesday. The 2011 class, developed in just two months, is regarded as one of Vanderbilt’s best in many years.
Franklin will greet Vanderbilt returnees on campus Thursday as the Commodores move toward their first preseason practice Friday evening.
The first-year head coach is eager to start practicing, and thinks Vanderbilt players share his enthusiasm.
“I’m definitely excited and I’m sure the players share the excitement,” Franklin said. “Our guys have worked so hard all summer and their confidence level is so high because they’re bigger, stronger and faster than ever before.
“I just want to get them back on the field, see what they can do, and start seeing them come together as a team,” the coach added.
Franklin expects 103 prospects to report. The list includes 19 position starters and more than 50 letterwinners from a year ago, though the new Commodore mentor has stated emphatically that he expects serious competition for every starting assignment this August.
Morning Practice on Sat., Aug. 13 Open to Public
Franklin announced that Vanderbilt fans will have a chance to watch the team’s morning practice on Saturday, Aug. 13.
On August 13, gates at John Rich Practice Facility will open at 8:30 a.m., with practice starting at 9 a.m. A second session on Aug. 13, scheduled in the evening, will be closed.
Dore Jam Fan Day this Sunday, Aug. 7
The team’s annual Dore Jam fan day, which features coach and player autographs, poster giveaways and an array of kid’s activities, will be held this Sunday at the Rich practice complex.
Franklin, his new coaching staff and the entire Vanderbilt team will be available for autographs at the free two-hour event, which starts at 4 p.m.