Canes finish up second day of spring

The University of Miami football team worked through cool weather conditions Wednesday afternoon as the Hurricanes wrapped up its second straight day of spring practice at the Greentree Practice Fields. Miami underwent another two-hour session in shorts and helmets while weather conditions stayed in the low 60s.

"There was improvement," UM head coach Randy Shannon said. "We made a lot of plays on offense. We made a lot of plays on defense. You really don't do anything until you get into the pads."

The Hurricanes spent time working in individual position groups, on special teams and in 7-on-7 passing drills. UM finished its practice with close to 20 plays of team work, which included offense against defense, before spending a little more time on special teams.

"There is a lot of bonding going on," Shannon said. "The quarterbacks are always with each other all the time - off the field and on the field. I like just watching how the team is cheering for each other on certain situations."

Shannon also commented on the additions of new defensive coordinator Bill Young and wide receivers coach Aubrey Hill.

"They are doing fine,' he said. "Coaches always adjust. That is part of our business. You are always trying to improve, trying to get better and they are doing a great job."

The `Canes will participate in 12 more practices leading up to the spring game at the BankUnited CanesFest at Lockhart Stadium in Fort Lauderdale on Saturday, March 29. CanesFest will feature a spring game at 10 a.m., an autograph session, a question and answer period with head coach Randy Shannon as well as an opportunity to renew existing and purchase new season tickets. Gates open at 9 a.m. Parking and admission are free.

The Hurricanes will take a day off on Thursday before practicing again on Friday at 3 p.m. Miami will practice in shells Friday before putting on full pads Saturday morning. All practices are closed to the public this spring with the exception of a scrimmage at Traz Powell Stadium Thursday, March 6 and the spring game on March 29.

To purchase tickets for Miami's upcoming 2008 season at Dolphin Stadium, contact the UM ticket office by calling 1-800-GO-CANES.