The long day began with a light practice on the artificial turf fields of the Hansel Tookes Recreation Center. After morning meetings, players reported at 10:10 a.m. for practice. Taylor was very pleased with the opportunity presented by the recreation center's director, Robert Carroll. "Our first game will be played on artificial turf and this is an awesome opportunity to get our footing, that we did not have before," Taylor said. "We can't thank campus recreation enough for extending this opportunity," he added.
After a team meeting, the players were issued jerseys and made their way to the Al Lawson Center at 1 p.m. for the 2012 team photo. After team photos, the players took position photos. At approximately 2:00 p.m., the media was allowed complete access to the players. A total of about 10 news agencies, Websites and reporters were present for the session. After media interviews were fulfilled, players lined up to get their new headshots.
At 3:00 p.m. the doors were opened to fans, who poured in to the Lawson Center. Among the many guests was Al Lawson himself. Lawson walked over to Taylor and offered his support, which Taylor promptly expressed his appreciation.
The atmosphere was unlike any Fan Day before. 10-year-old DJ Laila Jade handled the music for the event. The FAMU Athletics Marketing/Development and Sports Information Departments collaborated to provide several options for fans to get into the spirit at Fan Day. Drawings for prizes, trivia games and a free fan photo booth were the highlights of the day. Free megaphones, laniards, t-shirts, bags and other FAMU items were given away.
As an added attraction for the Rattler nation, the Lady Rattler volleyball team was holding preseason practice on the floor of the Lawson Center, while Fan Day was going on in the upper level. Volleyball schedules were also available at the event.
After a fun-filled day of activities, that even saw some ticket sales as the ticket office was open, Taylor ended the day with a short speech to the fans in attendance. The Ratttlers open their 2012 campaign on Sept. 1,against the Tennessee State Tigers in Nashville, TN. The Rattlers open their home campaign on Sept.15 against the Hampton Pirates. For ticket info, please call (850)599-3141.
