The UCLA Bruins have made steady progress this off-season, installing their offense and defense under new head coach DeShaun Foster.
With many practices open to both the public and the media, Foster announced that he would be closing practice on Saturday, August 17th. Speaking with BruinsReportOnline on Wednesday, Foster elaborated on his decision and gave his take on how the off-season has progressed.
“Going into the week, feeling pretty good. No crazy injuries, or no season-ending. Team’s playing well. We’re in full pads today so I’m excited to see how the guys come out and practice. Next Saturday’s practice is actually gonna be closed. I know I said it was gonna be open, but for me to get exactly what I want out of them and get them prepared for the opener the way I want to get them prepared it’s probably better for me to close the practice. So, next Saturday’s closed.”
Focussing on getting his team prepared for their season opener at Hawai’i, the Bruins opted to close the practice likely to keep distractions at a minimum. Given that the team has received equal parts excitement and concern, getting ready and starting the season off strong is front of mind for Foster and Co.