Dec. 19, 2007

NEW ORLEANS, LA -

Photo Gallery From Hospital Visit

The Tiger football team had their first practice in New Orleans Wednesday afternoon at Tulane University. The squad was treated to warm temperatures as they took the field in shoulder pads and shorts for a nearly two-hour session.

Coach Tommy West called his squad up midway through practice for added motivation just prior to going into special teams action.

"That was a poor practice," said West following the workout. "I thought these guys were mature enough to have some fun and then come here and have some focus for practice. We didn't today. We are going to have to do a little bit of work tomorrow to make up for not being good today. We had too many people who just couldn't focus enough to do what we needed to do."

"We are a little bit behind right now and that concerns me," added West. "I am really disappointed right now. We have some time to get it corrected. Our timing was poor today. I have a feeling we will get it back tomorrow."

Prior to practice, 10 Tiger players and West made a visit to Children's Hospital as part of the New Orleans Bowl community outreach program. The players met with the patients in their rooms and signed mini footballs for them. Participating in the outing were Joseph Doss, Jake Kasser, Martin Hankins, Andy Smith, Carlton Robinzine, Brent Todd, Jonathan Simpson, Josh Weaver, Clinton McDonald and Will Hudgens.

Former Tiger and 2003 New Orleans Bowl MVP Danny Wimprine came out to practice. A native of nearby River Ridge, La., Wimprine currently is in his second season with the New Orleans Voodoo of the Arena Football League.

The Tigers and FAU Owls will attend the kick-off luncheon tomorrow afternoon and Memphis will take their team photo and practice at the Louisiana Superdome Thursday evening.

Fans are invited to attend the Fulton Street Fan Party Thursday from 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. This event is sponsored by the New Orleans Bowl. The U of M Alumni Association will also host a True Blue Celebration at Jackson Square in the French Quarter at 8 p.m. The Mighty Sound of the South Band and cheerleaders will be there for the festivities. There will also be a pep rally on Friday at 4:30 p.m. in front of the Superdome. Kickoff is slated for 7 p.m. Friday.