July 27, 2002

Columbia, SC –

* A record crowd of more than 1,800 was in attendance Saturday at the Carolina Coliseum for the 4th annual Lou Holtz Football Clinic for Ladies. The crowd more than doubled last year’s turnout and was the most enthusiastic group that Coach Holtz had ever been a part of. “The clinic grows bigger and better every year,” said Coach Holtz. “This is by far the most enthusiastic group that we’ve had.”

* The clinic started at 9:15 a.m. with a 15-minute highlight tape from the 2001 season. Coach Holtz then addressed the group for more than 45 minutes. Three of the players – kicker Daniel Weaver, holder Josh Brown and snapper Ricky Hudson – demonstrated the proper technique on kicking a field goal. Weaver is best remembered for his game-winning 42-yard field goal in last year’s Outback Bowl victory over Ohio State. Coach Holtz talked about his philosophy on building a team and presented the ladies with his list of 10 principles that he believes are necessary in bringing a team successfully together.

* A group of Gamecock players, including quarterback Corey Jenkins, spur Rashad Faison, offensive tackle Watts Sanderson, defensive tackle Langston Moore and spur Rod Wilson, demonstrated to the group some of the cone drills and bag drills that the team participates in during practice. Coach Holtz invited some of the women down on the floor to practice the drills and Holtz said he was impressed with how much they knew about football. “This group is very interested in learning more about the game, but I’m impressed with how much they already know,” said Coach Holtz. “They want to hear about the offensive and defensive game plans and how we practice. It’s great to have a group like this that is so involved. People in this state, including the women, live and die with their football.”

* Later in the program, the group would hear from Pat Moorer, strength and conditioning coach, Chris Matlock, equipment manager, and Grady Ray, a retired football official. The ladies would also be involved in some offensive and defensive strategy sessions. The clinic would conclude later in the afternoon with the women running onto the field at Williams-Brice Stadium to the sounds of “2001.” A tour of the stadium facilities was also available.

* Coach Holtz dismissed the notion of running back Derek Watson, who had been suspended from the team this past January, of returning to school this year and redshirting. “We’ve talked about that subject enough. He’s not going to be a part of our program this year. A team has a life span of one year and that’s all I’m going to say about that.”

* Coach Holtz, along with senior running back Andrew Pinnock and senior spur Rashad Faison, will travel to Birmingham, Ala., Tuesday to participate in the annual SEC Preseason Football Media Day. The Gamecock freshmen report next Sunday, Aug. 4.