August 12, 2000
Release: Upon Receipt


FURMAN VETERANS REPORT FOR PRE-SEASON PRACTICE;
PALADIN FRESHMEN COMPLETE SECOND DAY OF WORKOUTS

GREENVILLE -- Furman's veteran football players reported to campus Saturday afternoon, and the squad's 25 freshmen completed a second day of practice in preparation for the Paladins' first full squad practice in shorts and helmets beginning Monday morning.

"Everybody is accounted for and now we're ready to get underway," said Furman head coach Bobby Johnson Saturday afternoon. "We'll evaluate their conditioning with testing Sunday morning, but I'll be surprised if we have many who don't make it because virtually all of them look like they're in great shape. A lot of them stayed here and have already qualified in the running tests. That's a big plus."

Prior to the arrival of Furman's veterans, the squad's 25 newcomers went through two more practices, with much of the emphasis on fundamentals and talent evaluation.

"We're trying to get these young guys ready for Monday morning's practice when everybody will be on the field," added Johnson. "From what I've seen so far, I think there are several freshmen who can help us, but right now I'm not sure when we'll count on them."

After conditioning tests Sunday morning, the Paladins will have a team gathering followed by an individual and team picture session.

Beginning Monday Furman will practice twice daily beginning at 6:20 a.m. and 3:20 p.m. The squad will work out in shorts and helmets through Wednesday before going to full pads on Thursday. All Furman practices are open to the public.

Fan Day is scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 19, at 1:30 p.m. at Paladin Stadium. Players and coaches will be on the field for autographs for approximately 30 minutes prior to the annual Purple-White scrimmage.

Furman, which returns 17 starters off its 9-4, 1999 Southern Conference championship, NCAA playoff squad, opens its 2000 season on Sept. 2 at 7:00 p.m. against Elon in Paladin Stadium.