New York Giants to Hold Training Camp at the Meadowlands: The Giants announced yesterday that because of logistical and timing restrictions due to the NFL’s ongoing labor dispute, the team will not hold training camp at the University of Albany but at the Timex Performance Center outside the New Meadowlands Stadium.
This will be the first time since 1996 that the Giants have not held training camp in Albany.
“We have notified President (George M.) Philip and Dr. (Lee) McElroy at the University at Albany , as well as Mayor (Gerald) Jennings , that we will not be holding training camp there this summer,” Giants’ President/CEO John Mara said. “In light of current circumstances, it simply became impractical for us to hold camp away from home. The University at Albany and the Capital Region has been a great summer home for us for 15 years, and we have every intention of returning there in 2012.”
“While I was disappointed when John Mara called me this morning, I fully understand the Giants’ decision,” said University at Albany President George M. Philip, “We have a strong relationship with the team and have enjoyed hosting their summer camp for the past 15 years. We will miss the vibrancy and excitement the Giants would have once again brought to the University and the region this summer. We wish them luck in the upcoming season and look forward to their return in 2012.”
“John called me this morning to let me know of the team’s plans, and I certainly understand and respect the decision,” said Albany Mayor Gerald Jennings. “We have had a great relationship with the Giants organization for 15 years, and my office and our city look forward to this season and to welcoming the Giants back next summer.”
According to the Giants’ press release, the team believes that even if a new labor agreement is reached soon, the Giants have too little time to organize the transportation of equipment and personnel to Albany. In addition, after missing most of the offseason due the lockout, Head Coach Tom Coughlin feels that the players’ limited time before the season starts will be more efficiently spent at the Timex Performance Center.
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