By LORI METCALF
Just wanted to let you know the women’s clinic this year was AWESOME! I went with my sister-in-law again and her cousin, who also had been before. We agreed that this was the best one of the Joker Phillips era.
We especially enjoyed the interactive aspects of it, which were more expansive than in previous years. I got to be a tight end during the defensive demonstrations running three slant patterns and two go routes. During special teams, Coach Greg Nord had us out on the field with the chance to catch punts (I did not) and kickoffs as well as attempting to kick/hold PATs. We also understand when/how special teams have to be “in the box” on the sidelines. I was a bomber, or a member of the punt coverage. On offense, Coach Sanders’ put us through WR drills and RB drills. Not everyone participated in all the above events, but everyone who wanted to had the opportunity.
Another fascinating discussion was Nolan Jones, director of FB ops, explaining the logistics of getting the team out and back on a road trip. There are ten million details he has to account for, not the least of which is meals and snacks. Boy, do those guys eat! It was nice to see Jeremy Jarmon in UK blue again. I got to visit with him a little bit and he was so excited to be there. He told me that the players, coaches and other staff love the women’s clinic. I think many of them see it as the kickoff of the season just like we do.
We had the chance to meet what seemed like dozens of the players. There were several returning players and lots of new faces as well. I’m always pleased to hear the coaches talk about the players being good men as well as good athletes. This year is no exception. And to a man, each of the players we met was polite and friendly and seemed excited about the season ahead.
Lisa Ellis and her crew did another bang-up job and I’m excited about this season. There’s no doubt that it will be a rebuilding year, but there are 200 women who are behind the Cats all the way.
8 Responses to Guest post: Awesome women’s clinic will keep 200 female fans clearly behind Cats, Joker Phillips
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Lori, I sat beside you on Saturday, but had no idea you were writing for this site! Awesome post, and so good to meet you yesterday!
I hadn’t intended to, but when I got home I thought I’d tell Larry how much fun it was — again. He thought it worthy and I’m humbled. It was great to meet you and Haley, too!
Thanks for the kind words, by the way!
Lori, it had been so good to see you, AND it’s good to see that you did end up writing something for the site!!! Too, it’s DITTO to Lori’s words here. The clinic was, indeed, AWESOME (even though a daughter-in-law teases me about using that word too much, ha)!!!
Also, indeed, our support is quite strong and seems most appreciated by Coach Phillips and his staff and the players. Further, if every fan could be there and witness the atmosphere of such good people, both the coaches and the players that the coaches have recruited partly because of that character, I suspect many would be supporting stronger than they are now. As I’ve frequently said, repeating the words of our coaches, if they can get enough top recruits to visit and experience the special atmosphere of truly caring coaches and fine young men working so hard for their dream, many WILL choose Kentucky. The coaches are excited about Kentucky football and the season, the players are excited, and we gals are excited. Now may we have better fortunes in the area of health this season, and I truely believe a lot of folks are going to get a really nice surprise!
By the way, Lori, I, too, had so enjoyed talking with Jeremy Jarmon. That young man is so special, and he will surely be a wonderful influence on these players and the program. Too, yes, how he praised us fans and shared how much he had always loved the women’s clinics. Also, a highlight had been my getting to meet and talk with Avery Williamson (and talking with those “sons” or probably “grandsons,” expressing support and appreciation, had been THE highlight of the day for me) — compared to Wesley Woodyard by Coach Chuck Smith and described as the kind of guy a man wants his daughter to date. Williamson’s smile and kindness and warmth had been off the charts, and I, like the coaches, already see that young man’s becoming a VERY special leader for these Wildcats. I promise that Kentucky fans are going to LOVE him. Guess I had better “shut up” — I could talk all day about Kentucky football and, particularly, our women’s clinic. GO CATS!!!
Thanks Tana for the great addition. And you will be happy to know there are two more stories coming on the women’s clinic, including one wife the wife of a former UK player I know you will certainly love on Tuesday
I started the morning looking for you and it wasn’t 5 minutes before I succeeded! It’s great to see familiar faces and renew Big Blue friendships.
In case the readers haven’t gathered, Tana is a wee bit passionate about her Cats.
Just like the other 198 women who were with us Saturday.
GREAT JOB LORI. I love UK FB(I was actually a FB fan before becoming a BB fan). I will be at the last three home games this year and may even squeeze in the WKU game. I also agree that if some of the naysayers attended events like this they would appreciate what it takes to be the coach or a player at UK. Tyhese young men belive that they can and will change the way UK FB is viewed. The more we support them the more of them we can sign.
KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK. GO BLUE OR STAY HOME
Thanks! You’re exactly right about the guys’ attitude. I think if they didn’t believe they could make a difference, they wouldn’t be here. No one disagrees that there is pretty much only upside potential. I think the staff feel like they’re on the way to turning a corner, and the guys we met the other day are there to help rebuild the program.