The admittance policy for the first day of Spring Practice has raised some eyebrows among fans, and understandably so.
To clear the air a little, an official practice admittance policy has been in the works for months, with many groups contributing input to the situation to craft a course of action that is ultimately being done with the players' best interest in mind. A final policy will be released soon, but as it continues to be vetted, officials believed it best for both the program and the players to limit admittance for the opening workout this afternoon to family members, media and recruits.
USC has always been one of the nation's most accessible programs, whether by allowing fans to attend practices or through the almost unheard-of media openness. And remember, while practices appeared in the past to be fully open, there was always a procedure and filter for people to come in through Goux Gate at the entrance to Howard Jones Field. That procedure is just being tweaked now, that's all.
To clear the air a little, an official practice admittance policy has been in the works for months, with many groups contributing input to the situation to craft a course of action that is ultimately being done with the players' best interest in mind. A final policy will be released soon, but as it continues to be vetted, officials believed it best for both the program and the players to limit admittance for the opening workout this afternoon to family members, media and recruits.
USC has always been one of the nation's most accessible programs, whether by allowing fans to attend practices or through the almost unheard-of media openness. And remember, while practices appeared in the past to be fully open, there was always a procedure and filter for people to come in through Goux Gate at the entrance to Howard Jones Field. That procedure is just being tweaked now, that's all.
Ben,
I was glad to read your e-mail that the Blog will continue in some form. When I read that you were leaving, I came to realisze how enjoyable it had been to read the Blog, especially when one cannot attend the practices and go to some of the games. The Blog made you feel part of the Trojan Family and gave one insight into the workings of the football department and the team. Your ability to convey through words the daily activities of the team made us feel like we were there.
Then to read an e-mail on the same day, that the athletic department was going to limit those who could attend the first day of spring football practice, made the day even worse. I am hoepful they will change their policy in that reagard. However, while the Blog will go on, the school will be hard pressed to find someone to take your place.
Good Luck with the Seahawks, and thank you for the Blog and your fantastic work.
Paula