A Fan’s Guide to the Washington Redskins Training Camp:
The Washington Redskins begin training camp in Richmond, Virginia on July 27th. Training Camp is a great opportunity for fans to get an up-close view of players and coaches for free. However, you must be prepared before you attend. Here is a fan’s guide to Redskins Training Camp 2018.
Which Players should You look out for?
Linebacker, Preston Smith:
As Smith heads into year four, a contract year, he is out to prove himself. Smith was a 2nd round pick in 2015 and he has steadily ascended throughout his career. He should have an increased role this year with outside linebacker Junior Galette leaving in free agency this offseason. Make sure to keep an eye out for Preston Smith this season.
Quarterback, Alex Smith:
Alex Smith will be the head of Washington’s offense for this season and the foreseeable future. This will be the first live look at Smith for fans. It would be a good idea to look for Smith when the offense practices redzone drills. The Redskins have struggled in this area of the field in recent years. They look to improve in this area with Smith now leading the offense.
Defensive End Jonathan Allen:
Jonathan Allen was having a promising rookie campaign until he suffered a Lisfranc injury in week five. He looks to build off of his short rookie season and help Washington’s rising defensive line. Allen has all the tools he needs to succeed in highly touted Defensive Line coach Jim Tomsula, a solid line backing core behind him, and his raw athleticism. Look out for Allen as he tries to come back from his injury.
What days should You go to training camp?
The Redskins have a couple of different themed days depending on what you think best suits you, in addition to regular practice days. There may be one or two that are fit for you.
Military Appreciation Day (sponsored by Geico):
The Washington Redskins will be hosting their annual Training Camp Military Appreciation Day on Saturday, July 28th. Former and Current Military members, along with their families, are encouraged to attend Military appreciation day where veterans will receive a 20% off discount at the team store, as well as access to an exclusive viewing area where players will come and sign autographs and take pictures after practice. (No individual player is guaranteed to sign autographs or take pictures)
Think Pink Day:
Think Pink Day will take place on Sunday, July 29. Players will be sporting jerseys that have pink accents to represent the Redskins support of the fight against breast cancer. In October, fans can bid on these jerseys, and the money raised will be donated to breast cancer charities. Remember to wear Pink!
Fan Appreciation Day:
Fan Appreciation Day will be hosted on Saturday, August 4th. On Fan Appreciation Day, more players typically sign and take pictures with fans. Washington’s Cheerleading squad, the First Ladies of Football, will also be at camp this day. However, there usually is a very large attendance for this day compared to regular practice days. Just a note in case you plan on going this day.
What should You bring for Training Camp?
For the first week of camp, it will be very stormy. Be sure to pack a poncho/umbrella, a hat or something else to cover you, and a light jacket. It will be rainy, but it will still be somewhat warm. Since, it will be hotter some days I would suggest packing a refillable water bottle. There are many places where you can refill it for free.
If you would like to buy something to get autographed, I would strongly recommend buying an official yearbook for $9.95. It has tons of space for players to sign, plus it is a unique collector’s item. If you feel like spending a little more money, there is a Redskins panel football for $38. I buy one every year and reuse them if I don’t get any autographs.
What can You get to eat at training camp?
There are plenty of great places to eat at training camp. Places include Papa John’s and Buffalo Wild Wing’s food trucks.
Attending Training Camp will be a great decision for you and your family. Hopefully this guide helped you prepare for your trip.
