The New Orleans Saints have announced they will be canceling the last remaining open practice for the fans due to the extreme heat that Louisiana has felt and will continue to feel throughout August. With the practice session originally scheduled for this Thursday, here is what the team had to say in their official statement:
Due to the persistent and unprecedented heat that has gripped the Gulf South region over the course of Training Camp, and which is projected to continue, the team is cancelling the final open practice scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 10.
In an effort to protect the health and safety of Saints fans, players, coaches and staff, the final practice will not be rescheduled as more practice time will be conducted in the indoor practice field at the Ochsner Sports Performance Center. Due to space limitations, the team is unable to accommodate the public indoors. This practice will be the only scheduled public practice cancelled this year.
Saints fans continued to show their team immense support, with the practices continuing to sell out despite the heat. For everyone involved, this seems to be the safest option possible. The team will continue to practice outdoors, but it no longer made sense to have the fans outside risking their health to watch the team play.
The Saints closed their statement by thanking the fans for their support during this training camp:
We would like to thank all fans for their overwhelming support with each open practice being “sold out.” The fans passionate support each practice, despite the conditions, made a huge impact on the team and the entire Saints organization would like to thank all who attended 2023 Saints Training Camp. We look forward to, and appreciate, your continued support this season.
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