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VERO BEACH, Fla. - The Bulls got day three underway by putting on the shoulder pads and helmets for a tough two-hour workout at the Frank Morsani Practice Facility. After packing and a quick snack, USF's entire football operation boarded buses and trucks to make the two-and-a-half hour drive across the state to the Vero Beach Sports Village. It's year two for the Bulls in Vero Beach and already, the site has drawn rave reviews.
"They took some suggestions we made from last year and really acted on them," said Director of Football Operations Larry Antonucci. "It really isn't a surprise because the people here are great. They did everything we needed them to last year and we're really excited to be back here again. They know how to take care of their guests."
Antonucci was glowing when asked about the Bulls return to Vero Beach and the chance to work with Vice President Craig Callan, Director of Athletics & Marketing Jeff Biddle and the entire staff. The Village, which already provided unbelievable service with spacious, comfortable rooms, plenty of meeting space, along with dry-erase boards, projectors and screens and outstanding practice fields, has made improvements since last year by adding lights to three fields and providing wireless internet in all the rooms amongst other things.
"The best thing about being here is the people," Antonucci added. "They leave no stone unturned. They take care of all your needs, no matter how small, and the grounds crew. Those guys are unbelievable. They keep everything in top shape and it makes it a great place for us to get our work done."
With a smooth move-in thanks to Antonucci and the folks at the Vero Beach Sports Village, the players had a chance to reflect on what it means to be here and what they hope to get out of it.
"We're very excited to be back," said junior S Jon Lejiste. "It's the second year so we know what's going to happen and won't be surprised by anything. Last year, with a new staff, getting used to the coaches and bonding with the teammates is what last year was about. Now in year two, we're focused on developing our skills and working on the fundamentals."
Senior OL Chaz Hine agreed.
"I like this place a lot," Hine said. "It has fantastic facilities, great rooms and tons of meeting space. It's a nice place for everybody to get together and mold together as a team."
The Bulls will have their first workout in Vero Beach on Sunday, when they take the field at 3:30 p.m. All practices in Vero Beach are free and open to the public, so come out and support the team as it goes through training camp.
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