Will Grier (AP file)
For the first time, the weather was not a concern when it came to the Florida Gators’ football practice.
The Gators held their first practice in the new indoor practice facility Saturday, meeting their goal of getting into the facility before the start of the season. The news spread through social media, as the team’s various social media accounts released videos and pictures of the players on the new field.
The team was granted a temporary certificate of occupancy, according to a UF spokesman. The building official is authorized to issue a temporary certificate of occupancy before the completion of the entire work if such portions can be occupied safely.
Gators coach Jim McElwain said the plan is for Florida to use the indoor facility for practices on Thursday and Friday every week during the season. Along with giving the team another option for practice when there is inclement weather, the $17 million project should also help to keep the team fresh throughout the season.
“Anytime you can just take the heat drain off, it just helps you in the long run,” McElwain said on Aug. 14. “I can’t sit here and tell you I read the study or can quote the guy or lady who did it. But any time you’re able to take some of that off the body, it helps you be a little fresher at the end of the year.”
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