It feels like just yesterday the NFL training camps were planning to kick off and yet, here we are – ready for the season to start soon!Football has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember and when I heard the news about training camp I knew I had to share it with family and friends.
Back in March the NFL was developing plans on how to safely open training camps during a pandemic. The world has been challenged in many ways but none so more than professional sports and finding a way to return to play during a pandemic. I couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride for the NFL and its commitment to getting the season going.
Finally, the big day arrived – July 28th. Teams were prepared to open camps and get the players prepped for a twenty week season. Teams have to abide by the protocols set forth by the league and governments rule and regulations, such as regular testing and social distancing. It’s going to be a different experience for sure, but it’s a necessary prove to make sure that football is played and stay safe at the same time.
Every team is different in their set up, of course. The way they handle their training camps will be different due to each team’s rules and regulations. For example, the Carolina Panthers are holding all their camp activities virtually while other teams like New York Giants are engaging in all hands on practices on the field. Either way, they have to go above and beyond in order to ensure a safe and successful camp period.
I think that the training camps this year have been a great example of what the future can look like. With so many issues that the world is facing, seeing the NFL make such strong strides towards getting the season back on the road is nothing short of inspiring. They’ve really taken it upon themselves to ensure that the players, coaching staff, management, and fans all have a safe and enjoyable experience this year.
The training camps certainly give us hope. It’s a reminder that if we want to, we can get through this together. This year might look a little different but I’m excited to watch all the teams work hard so that we can get our football season underway.
One of the key points to making the season happen is the health and safety protocols implemented by teams. Teams have to go above and beyond what is expected from the league, meaning teams have to setup testing protocol, social distancing guidelines, contact tracing, and ventilation practices among other things. All of these strategies have the purpose of ensuring that the team can operate smoothly and that all the players remain in good health for the entire season.
The training camps will also help teams in preparing for the season. With so much change that this year has brought, teams need to prepare mentally and physically to ensure that they can compete. Training camps provide players a chance to get back into the groove of things and get to know their new teammates.
I’m glad that the NFL is taking measures to ensure a safe and successful 2020 season. All the protocols and procedures are necessary, and they bring me hope that football will continue to be one of America’s favorite pastimes despite all the hardships we’ve already faced. Here’s to a great season for all the teams!