Washington NFL team returns to Richmond training camp July 26
Fred Jeter | 7/23/2018, 11:13 a.m.
The NFL’s Washington team aims to be more fan and family friendly during training camp set for Thursday, July 26, through Tuesday, Aug. 14.
This is the sixth summer of an eight-year contract between the Washington team and the City of Richmond to hold preseason workouts at the Bon Secours Training Center at 2401 W. Leigh St.
The upcoming schedule is spiced with a lot of added attractions.
Here’s a sampling:
Saturday, July 28 – Military Appreciation Day: All active military personnel and veterans will have access to a special viewing area. Also, all fans are eligible for gifts by signing up at the team’s website.
Sunday, July 29 – Think Pink: Players will wear pink-accented jerseys to show support for Breast Cancer Awareness. The jerseys will be auctioned off in October, with proceeds going to breast cancer charities.
Wednesday, Aug. 1 – Celebration in the End Zone (5 to 8 p.m.): Fans are welcomed to the second-floor Events Center to mix and mingle with team front office staff and player alumni. Hors d’oeuvres, door prizes and cash bar will be featured.
Saturday, Aug. 4 – Fan Appreciation Day: This is the team’s traditional special occasion, with fans given access to players and coaches. It usually draws the camp’s largest crowd.
Tuesday, Aug. 7 – Kids Day: The first 1,000 youngsters will receive a special give-away keepsake.
Sunday, Aug. 12 through Tuesday, Aug. 14 – New York Jets: Washington will hold joint workouts with the New York Jets. Previously, the New England Patriots came to the Richmond training camp in 2014 and the Houston Texans in 2015. The Jets’ rookies include ball carrier Trent Cannon from Virginia State University.
Tuesday, Aug. 14 – Youth Football: Youngsters wearing team jerseys will receive give-aways and be able to mingle with player alumni.
Additional off-site activities:
Tuesday, July 24 – River City Golf Classic at Magnolia Green Golf Club; for more information go to www.rivercityclassic.com.
Thursday, July 26 – Training Camp Kickoff, The Veil Brewing Co., 6 to 8 p.m.
Thursday, Aug. 9 – Rally at Southern Railway Tap House, 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Friday, Aug. 10 – NFL Day with the Richmond Flying Squirrels, at The Diamond, 7:05 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 11 – Breaking Bread, social at Gus’ Bar and Grill, after 3 p.m.
Training camp information:
Two-a-day: The Washington team will practice 9:45 to 11 a.m., followed by a 4 to 6 p.m. walk-through daily, July 26 through July 29.
Cost: Free, but fans are advised to acquire e-tickets at the team website.
Parking: Official lots within two blocks of the stadium cost $10, cash only. The fee will allow same day re-entry.
Volunteers: The team always looks for help; call (804) 646-6528.
Competition: Washington’s first preseason game is Thursday, Aug. 9, at New England. The official regular season opens Sunday, Sept. 9, in Arizona against the Arizona Cardinals.