How did Miami Hurricanes Handle Time in Orlando?
Miami Senior offensive lineman K.C. McDermott discussed the team getting back together.
"“Once you know that everyone is OK, to come back as a team and enjoy each other’s company like we did on Friday night was unbelievable,…I’m getting chills right now just thinking about it.”"
On a day they had been scheduled to play Florida State, the team held its first practice. It was only conditioning. A full football practice would wait until Sunday, the 17.
McDermott spent the Storm in Wellington, Florida, near Fort Lauderdale with his family. Post-storm he helped his father clear trees and debris. His family was without power for four days.
McDermott spoke about Richt and Athletic Director Blake James decision to cancel the game against Arkansas State.
"“Coach made the right call in letting us go home and spend time with our families…It would have been really hard to wake up and get ready for a game knowing a hurricane was hitting the hometown and our families would be there.”"
Miami can now put Irma behind them. They are back on campus as they get ready to play Toledo Saturday. Both Richt and Defensive Coordinator Manny Diaz have urged the fan base to come out and cheer the team on, on Saturday.
Sports has often served as a way for a community to get back together and heal after a disaster or tragedy. Hopefully, the Miami Hurricanes will be able to serve as a small window of hope and diversion in their first game back after Irma.
Next: Miami Hurricanes Athletic Personnel Discuss Pre-Irma Decisions
Most everyone was counting their blessings that the storm wasn’t as destructive as it was initially thought to be.