Your fan guide for Giants training camp
Eli Manning throws a pass during a Giants OTA in East Rutherford, N.J. (May 30, 2013) Credit: Joseph D. Sullivan
The last time the Giants held training camp at the Timex Performance Center (or whatever it will be called after Thursday), it was in the middle of a whirlwind of activity and decision-making. The lockout had just ended. The team was scrambling together. The decision was made to skip the annual trip to Albany.
That left many of the fans bewildered as to what they should expect, and the turnout was very low. Disappointingly low. In 2011, when the camp was open to the public at the Timex Performance Center (or whatever it will be called after Thursday), there were 13 open practices that drew a total of 14,478 fans. For contrast, last summer in Albany there were 14 practices and they drew a total of 37,684.
This year there is no excuse. The Giants are holding training camp at their home base in New Jersey and have known about it for some time. There are 16 scheduled practices that will be open to the public and free to attend (that’s assuming they all take place outside; if weather pushes the team into the fieldhouse then it’s not open to the fans). Here’s what you need to know if you want to come out and catch an up-close, intimate glimpse of your favorite Giants players … and maybe snag an autograph or two.
* Free public parking is in Lot K on the grounds of the MetLife Sports Complex. The lots will open to the public one hour before the scheduled start time of practice and lots will close one hour after the conclusion of practice.
* Limited seating for about 2,000 fans is provided alongside the practice fields. Standing room along the fence line outside the practice field is also available.
* Restroom facilities, concession stands (not free!) and a free kid’s activity area will also be available.
* The Giants will host a special autograph day on Sunday, July 28 when the entire team will sign autographs for fans after practice. On all other practice days a different position group of Giants players will sign autographs for fans (see the schedule below).
And finally, here’s the schedule of practices that are open to the public. Check in with Giants.com or go here for daily updates regarding weather and schedule changes. And of course we’ll update you on any of that information via Twitter if you follow me @TomRock_Newsday.
