August 18, 1998

Weather Assists Paladins In Pre-Season Drills Tuesday

GREENVILLE -- Getting an assist from an afternoon rain shower that kept temperatures lower than normal, Furman University's football team fashioned two very productive practice sessions Tuesday in the second day of two-a-day drills in shorts and shoulder pads.

"We were fortunate with the weather -- the rain kept it cool and everyone fresh, and we got a lot done because of it," said Furman head coach Bobby Johnson following Tuesday afternoon's two hour practice session that included a 15 minute downpour.

"Some of our veterans that we are counting on are having a good pre-season thus far. (Flanker) Desmond Kitchings (Wagener, S.C.) and all of our offensive linemen are doing extremely well, and we continue to be impressed with our newcomers."

Drawing particular praise among the Paladin freshmen were fullback Louis Ivory (Fort Valley, Ga.), cornerback Rodney Johnson (Marion, N.C.), flanker Bear Rinehart (Seneca, S.C.).

"Louis Ivory, Rodney Johnson, and Bear Rinehart have been really impressive. They are players who could possibly help us this year because of needs in their particular areas," Johnson added.

The Paladins again covered basics of the program's offensive and defensive schemes, and also worked on the kicking game. Wednesday will mark the final day of two-a-day practices in shorts and shoulder pads before the Paladins go to full gear on Thursday.