While the turnout was probably better than the average, Fan Day definitely loses some of the personal touch when youngsters aren’t able to seek autographs or come face to face with their favorite University of Louisville football players.crowd

Strictly a business session, with few of the extras normally present at Fan Day. Only one bouncy attraction that wasn’t attracting many kids. A hot afternoon, sweltering and humid, especially for the individuals in helmets and shoulder pads. A good day from a concessionaire’s standpoint, with long lines and brisk sales of beverages.

Somewhere between 3,500 and 4,500 people showed up for the open practice, the hottest day in at least a month, the temperature reaching 88 degrees according to the observer’s cell phone app. Fans were directed to the sunny east side of the stadium, the west side still needing work for the season opener. A sprinkling of red dots throughout the stadium, with damaged or worn out seats being replaced by bright red ones.

The buzz was all about Teddy Bridgewater, of course, his name being mentioned throughout the stadium, especially by the three youngsters seated behind me. Teddy this, Teddy that. The youngest of them, about 3 years old, also wanting to know when they were going to have the fireworks show.

Bridgewater was connecting with receivers all over the field, the most notable a 45-yarder to DaVante Parker, that drew oohs and aahs from the crowd. Parker is also becoming a more frequent target for the shorter ones as well.

Eli Rogers, always a Bridgewater favorite, was getting his share of receptions.Damian Copeland was missing in action, dinged up during Saturday’s scrimmage.

The last person a linebacker wants to see around the football is fullback B. J. Butler. He’s a scary sight when he’s headed in your direction, whether he’s blocking, running or catching a pass. Dominique Brown and Senorise Perry doing most of the running, at least on Sunday. Charlie Strong may not have wanted to showcase Michael Dyer during a open practice.

Fan Day not necessarily a fun day. Much too hot, a reminder that summer is far from over. Thank goodness for a 3:30 kickoff on opening day, the exact time the shade reaches the observer’s seat.

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By Charlie Springer

Charlie Springer is a former Louisville editor and sportswriter, a public affairs consultant, a UofL grad and longtime fan.