Even in a global crisis, Alabama football is staying safe yet active.
During a teleconference with reporters on Thursday, Nick Saban discussed what the coaching staff and team has been doing on a daily basis. Much of the communication has been done through technology, as Saban said the staff has Zoom meetings every morning at 7:30.
One of the biggest challenges is trying to keep each player in good physical shape.
RELATED: Alabama strength coach David Ballou shares helpful at home workouts
Since hiring David Ballou and Dr. Matt Rhea as its sports performance team, Saban referred to both coaches as ‘very beneficial’ for Alabama.
While Ballou has been posting workout videos on Twitter to keep players engaged, Rhea is finding different ways to make the program elite.
“They were very instrumental in setting up this whole program of what we’re doing with the players, in terms of Apple watches for their workouts and apps on their phones for weight training programs,” Saban said of Ballou and Rhea.
Saban said he is ‘hopeful’ that their ideas will be great for injury prevention.
Both Ballou and Rhea have managed this time of social distancing well, especially when one considers the work that players are putting in at home. Student-athletes such as Christian Barmore, Pierce Quick and Jaylen Waddle have all posted various workout videos.
For now, Alabama is focused on getting as much teaching in as possible.
Upon the return of football – should it happen – Saban wants to make sure this year’s team is prepared to make a run at a national championship.
*Get the BEST Alabama football insider information, message board access, and recruiting coverage today! SIGN UP HERE to unlock our subscriber only content!*
Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
