Tom Brady
It’s that time of year again. That time when 8,000 people spill onto a small practice field to watch grown men play catch. Yes, my friends, it’s NFL training camp season.
Out of all 32 teams, the Patriots have arguably the most obsessed fans in the NFL. After a long 8 month hiatus, these diehards are practically foaming at the mouth for a chance to watch their beloved boys of fall prepare for another season. From sports memorabilia dealers looking to strike it rich on autographs to 30 year old women just trying to get a glimpse of Tom Brady’s new hairstyle, everyone has their own reasons for flocking to camp.
However, there was a time when training camps weren’t mandatory. NFL football wasn’t a year round sport, so most players spent the off-season selling insurance or used cars to supplement their income. Surprisingly, it’s where they made the majority of their money.
Their income might have increased, but their performance on the field suffered. Players would come back for the season terribly out of shape and not equipped for the rigors of a full football season. However, legendary Browns coach Paul Brown had the solution. He assembled his team before the season for workouts and practices that would better prepare his squad for the upcoming season. After the Browns won league championships in the 1950’s, other teams began following suit, and the modern NFL training camp was born.
It’s not a secret that professional football is one of the most popular sports in America. So for those who weren’t lucky enough to score any game tickets, free training camp sessions offer a welcome alternative for viewing NFL action. Some of the advantages include:
1). A more intimate fan experience. Fans can get so close to the players that you can hear every order that Bill Bellichek yells. Yes, parents, that even includes the expletives. In addition, the players regularly sign autographs for fans and there is even a Patriot’s fan experience in the parking lot featuring fun games and moonwalks for some of the younger attendees.
2). Favorable weather. At a training camp session you can sit in sunny, 80 degree weather while at some Patriots games fans can find themselves stuck in blizzards or sub-freezing temperatures.
3). It’s free. Who doesn’t love free stuff? Especially the average college student, who most likely can’t afford the 100 dollars that it would cost for a seat at a Patriots game. With training camp, fans get a free opportunity to see Tom Brady, Randy Moss, and their other favorite Patriots in action.
Overall, the New England Patriots have some of the best fans in the NFL. As a result, they put on one of the best training camps in the league. It is something any diehard football fan should look into attending at least once. Visiting a Patriots’ training camp session gives you a free, pleasant sneak preview to the upcoming NFL season. Not to mention, it’s a great time for fans of any age.