Orange Football Returns to the Big Apple
3/10/2011 8:11:42 PM | Football
Orange football head coach Doug Marrone will take center court for a special presentation at Madison Square Garden during the Orange men's basketball BIG EAST Tournament semifinal game Friday night. Marrone and the 2010 Orange football team won the inaugural New Era Pinstripe Bowl, 36-34, against Kansas State in Yankee Stadium on December 30. At the Garden on Friday Marrone, a Bronx native, will once again hoist the championship trophy for Orange fans.
Syracuse completed the 2010 campaign with an 8-5 record, including its first bowl win since 2001.
“One of the great qualities at Syracuse University, out of all of the schools I have worked, is that all of the coaches get along, we all pull for each other and we all try to help each other. The Yankees invitation for us to come to Madison Square Garden for a Pinstripe Bowl trophy presentation during our [basketball] game is important for the things we are trying to accomplish at Syracuse with recruiting and the exposure of the football program.”
During Syracuse's second Spring practice session on Thursday the offense and defense participated in many spirited battles. Practicing in shorts and helmets the enthusiasm and energy overflowed into competitive and combative exchanges as players battle for starting positions and playing time.
“You have to remember what we are asking the kids,” Marrone said. “We tell them all of the time that first impressions are lasting impressions. You want to make a good first impression. We have some players who are out there for the first time, and players who are looking for a starting position.
“There was a lot of enthusiasm today from the players. I think the kids feel good about what they're doing. They are happy. They had a good offseason. They are running around quite well, which is a good sign. Today, you saw some plays made deep down the field and we made some plays on offense. The defense made some plays. They are going after each other pretty good.”
The Orange will return to the practice field in Syracuse on Tuesday, March 22 and Thursday, March 24 after the University's Spring break. The team will hold an intra-squad scrimmage in Rochester at Sahlen's Field on Saturday, March 26. All Spring practice sessions are free and open to the public.
New season tickets can be ordered now online and at the Carrier Dome Box Office (888-DOMETIX). Renewals for preferred seating, premium seating, and season tickets can be processed online. New preferred/premium seat patrons are invited to call the Carrier Dome Box Office for more information.
