Enter your search terms Submit search form   Web www.ALL-XFL.com Press Release 3 NY/NJ Hitmen mini-camp news and notes CAN YOU SPARE AN ASPIRIN? One of the surprises of Day Five of the inaugural NY/NJ HITMEN skill position mini-camp was the conditioning of the participants. Head trainer Keith Abrams reported no major injuries or muscle pulls, a tribute to the players’ preparation and readiness for action. The coaching staff, however, was another story. Offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Ron Calcagni struggled through laryngitis after just two days of high-volume teaching, and Abrams should expect increased traffic in his training room from coaches who “got physical” during the Friday afternoon practice session. Members of the staff, including Calcagni, Head Coach Rusty Tillman, administrative assistant Ron Stevens, and even Abrams himself, played the role of defenders during 7-on-7 passing drills. Although the “defense” set up multiple coverages, they appeared lost when trying to thwart the HITMEN offense. Stevens had the “hit” of the day, however, stopping running back Malcolm Thomas on a screen pass after deftly defeating the blocks of Calcagni and center Eric Cole, prompting calls of “sign him up” from players and coaches alike. LINE FORMS TO THE LEFT As the week wore on, aspiring players flocked to the practice field to inquire about a tryout. One HITMEN hopeful appeared on the sidelines during the morning practice ready for battle—dressed in helmet and shoulder pads! Perhaps the strongest evidence of the popularity of the XFL was the number of player agents who made the trip to Kean University to “watch” practice. A handful of eager representatives appealed to any player within business card distance. HELMETS DRAW MIXED REVIEWS While the rule changes draw the most attention, it’s the equipment, specifically the new helmet manufactured by BIKE, that has the players talking. Lighter and more aerodynamic than traditional football headgear, the new helmets were met with both enthusiasm and curiosity. Wide receiver Donnie Caldwell favors the new helmet, citing its lighter weight as a plus. “The helmet is phenomenal,” said the former Western Illinois star. “It feels like there’s nothing on my head, and I feel I can run faster and better routes when we’re in full equipment.” [Continued]

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