So with the team leaving the facility to begin their summer breaks - where some will take vacations and others will return home, Mariucci gave the team a going away gift. The head coach extended summer by an extra day, pushing mini-camp back to July 21st. Sure it is only one day, but it’s a day that is most appreciated by the team.

The head coach was obviously happy with the progress the team made in learning the offense, defense and special teams, and thus felt it was necessary to reward his players. It’s one of the reasons that Mariucci is regarded as a ‘players coach’. He understands that to get the best out his players it is often helpful to reward good work.

While some may think Mariucci is treating the team like a bunch of puppies… ‘sit dog sit - good job here’s a cookie’ really he is doing what he does best, and that’s getting the most from his players. Mariucci and the rest of the coaching staff, and front office will still be quite busy over the summer break. There is still plenty of work to be done.