By CHAD MATCHETT
Special to The Leader
The Lonoke Jackrabbits haven’t been on much of a summer break thanks to team camps, lifting and 7-on-7 football.
Minus a couple folks here and there still in baseball or basketball, Lonoke has 38 ’Rabbits showing up and working hard getting ready for next week when two-a-day practices begin.
The ’Rabbits have met in team camps every Monday morning throughout July.
Lonoke has met at Ouachita Baptist University and the University of Central Arkansas at Conway along with Sylvan Hills, Pulaski Robinson and Maumelle for some real-game situations.
“Team camp has been great for us because you have all 11 guys out there,” said Lonoke coach Doug Bost.
We film it and break it down later just like a game. We really get a lot out of it.”
The players are in shorts, shoulder pads and helmets.
There is still some hitting, but players are required to wrap up high and not take anyone to the ground. No tackling or blocking below the waist.
The 7-on-7 practices and tournaments help the Lonoke passing game as the quarterback and receivers get used to one another and the particular timing of each individual.
The team camps add the dimension of being able to work with the linemen, something missing in the pass-oriented seven on seven.
“The linemen really get a big benefit out of it,” said Bost.
The coaches get to see them and they get to have at least some pads on and get used to the heat.”
Lonoke has also reserved one day of practice just for traditional weigh lifting and conditioning.
“We’ve got everyone healthy right now and are ready to get into it,” Bost said.
