Buccaneers rookies have been attending a “Rookie Academy”, a program meant to help them grow as professionals on and off the field. It began with rookies visiting the local police department in Tampa Bay to see what the men and women in blue go through on a daily basis, via simulation. For a couple of Buccaneers, though, the simulations felt all too real. Rookie kicker Matt Gay participated in a simulation where he needed to use deadly force and when asked how he felt afterwards, he replied “I’ve got a kid on the way”.
.@MGTweetyMonster, @MrSeanyB1 and @_BMitch16, along with their fellow Bucs rookies, spent the day doing Citizen Academy training with @TampaPD. They got to learn about what officers go through daily and even take part in… https://t.co/fcziO0TotZ pic.twitter.com/VQgN3B9UiM
— JennaLaineESPN (@JennaLaineESPN) June 19, 2019
Yesterday, rookies wrapped up the academy at Raymond James Stadium, where many of them got their first look up and close at their home field. Sean Murphy-Bunting and Devin White were seen walking out of the tunnel and embracing each other as they looked forward to success for the upcoming season.
Bucs rookies @DevinWhite__40 and @MrSeanyB1 take the field together at @RJStadium today for the first time.
“We home, brother. We home. Bout to win a lot of games in here.”
“You already know.” pic.twitter.com/3jcjekRb40
— JennaLaineESPN (@JennaLaineESPN) June 26, 2019
All in all, I can say it looks like the Buccaneers brought in highly dedicated, high IQ football players with a bit of veteran mentality. Taking a little time to make sure they’re invested in the community is very important. Lets hope the duo of Murphy-Bunting and White, as well as the remaining rookie class can create a lasting impact on the organization throughout the week, and more importantly on Sundays.
Source:
Buccaneers.com
Cover photo source: Jenna Laine of ESPN
