Florida Atlantic University’s football team continued its spring preparations on April 2, splitting practice time between the team’s facility and Howard Schnellenberger Field at Flagler Credit Union Stadium. Weather conditions shortened the session, allowing players additional recovery before their next scheduled practice.
The presence of area high school prospects was notable, as they observed the Owls’ training routines. Former Florida Atlantic players Johnnie Sloan and Craig Roundtree, now coaching at Coconut Creek High School, led a group of these visitors during Thursday’s activities.
Practice highlights included redshirt senior quarterback Caden Veltkamp participating in rehabilitation drills and limited 7-on-7 work. Quarterbacks Jordan Magwood and Drew Devillier managed offensive drives while defensive plays stood out with interceptions by Jayden Sweeney and Kyle Boylston before lightning ended the day early.
Head coach Zach Kittley said about Tuesday’s scrimmage: “It was a good first scrimmage for us. We didn’t have any serious injuries, which is always good…A couple guys that flashed…Antojuan Woody in the slot room, he had a huge day for us…Kelby Valsin caught a few huge balls, Dom Henry took a 75-yard touchdown…Our tight ends are looking really, really good…We threw a Hail Mary-ish type play and AJ (Johnson) went up and made a one-handed Hail Mary type play in the back of the end zone in a scrum of guys to win that for the offense…Running backs were doing really well as well, Leonard Farrow had a huge scrimmage, Ethan Ervin had a few massive plays…So I think the explosiveness is there….We looked really good.” Kittley also commented on defensive improvements: “Hector Chavez is really coming along as a young guy that’s making a lot of plays. He made a lot of plays again today for us at linebacker…Blake Burris is a massive human being…He’s been an awesome fresh air for us there.”
Defensive tackles coach Devin Santana highlighted his unit’s effort: “Right now, the biggest thing that I’m pleased with in my unit is they’re attacking every day….But the biggest thing is the development.” Graduate defensive lineman Blake Burris described his transition to Florida Atlantic as positive: “Just coming here, it has been a blessing….The extra work, early mornings…have really helped….I feel like football is pretty much similar on all types of levels whenever you’re going from school to school; it’s just difference in terminology.” Burris added about his role: “I think it’s mentality anytime you talk about interior defensive line….If you take on that mindset, plays will come to you when you’re supposed to make your play.”
Looking ahead, Florida Atlantic announced its Ladies Night event scheduled for April 23 at Schmidt Family Complex near Flagler Credit Union Stadium. The program will include exclusive shopping opportunities and interactions with coaches and players.
