Fan’s view: Spring is for Rebel football (among other things)

Rebel football is back in action. Well, not completely, but at least getting some practice in and giving fans a look at what’s ahead. Coach Tony Sanchez took over in December and has jumped head first into recruiting, as well as getting to know his current players.

I was able to ask him a few questions after practice Wednesday night.

The football team’s Spring Showcase is this Saturday, giving the Rebel faithful their first look at the team. But Sanchez downplays the event, saying, “It’s mostly for the fans. ”

The coaches would rather be out there getting one last practice in, but he knows that they have to get the community involved and now is the best time to get started on that.

Fans will see all of the players on the field, from the first string on down. It will also be exciting for the players to have a large group of supporters out there watching and cheering.

Next up for the coaches is recruiting. They’re all back on the recruiting trail next Wednesday. The staff is really excited about where where the program is going and they’re looking to bring in players that can help them succeed.

As for the current players, they’ll continue their 6:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. workout groups and focus their academics all the way until finals. They’ll have an opportunity to go home during the first summer session and then come back for the second and third sessions. This year’s recruits recruits will arrive for the third session, which starts July 13.

The team’s last real practice is Friday at 1:00 p.m. and then the Spring Showcase is Saturday at noon on the UNLV soccer field. The festivities will open at 11:00 a.m. with kids activities and wrap up with autographs after the game.

Prior to the showcase, there will be an athletic department surplus sale from 8 a.m.-noon in the North Gym. New and gently used sports team apparel will be on sale to the public. I checked it out a few years ago and they have a lot of cool stuff for sale that you might not find anywhere else.

Have you been to a baseball game yet this season? You might as well just stay on campus after the football showcase and watch the baseball team take on New Mexico at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday. You can get a half-price voucher at the football game.

The beer prices at Earl Wilson Stadium have gone down! And the food choices have gone up! They even take debit cards now!!! All good things. The team just came back from taking 2 of 3 games against Ohio State. They will host New Mexico Friday at 6:00 p.m., Saturday at 2:00 p.m. and Sunday at 1:00 p.m. For an inside look, check out catcher Erik VanMeetren’s blog here.

Well, Rebel fans, by the time you hear from me again, I hope our basketball team has all their open spots filled for next year. Enjoy this wonderful spring weather (ahhh-choo!)