MSU Coaches Conclude Initial Football Camp
May 25, 2016 | Track & Field
Quarterbacks, wide receivers and running backs competed in a seven-on-seven passing camp that concluded in a double-elimination tournament this past Sunday. Offensive and defensive lineman ran through the same drills as the varsity Bulldogs do, with MSU coaches and graduate assistants lending advice.
Noxubee (Miss.) County High School Head Coach M. C. Miller's team has won the competition tournament three years in a row and he sees the advantage of the short drive to Starkville.
"We love the camp, we've been there the last eight or nine years because we can afford to take a good many of our players," said Miller. "It gives our guys a chance to show what they can do in front of the coaches, we went undefeated throughout the tournament and we've now won three years in a row."
Some high schools may only send a few players and they are placed on independent teams that are coached by volunteer coaches. Paul Gonella had a team with players from Mississippi and Georgia.
"Not only do these players come in to learn, most of these guys have never been to Starkville," said Gonella. "I think they we're impressed overall. I think they were also impressed with the small town atmosphere, they told me they could get their work done without any distractions."
The players were able to meet the new additions to the coaching staff. Not only did the players get to gauge their talent against other players, but they may grab the attention of the coaches.
"I think this may be the best collection of coaches in the country and the kids notice that," said Gonella. "The coaches interact with the players throughout the camp and really get to know them."
The next mini-camp will be held July 26th and 27th and will be $50 pre-paid; $60 after July 21st. For more information contact Jane Ballard at 662-325-2534.
