Best training camp venue, Wofford College in Spartanburg, S.C.

[Black]

That’s where the Carolina Panthers train, and they’re the only division team right now that goes away for training camp. There’s been a league-wide trend of moving camps back to regular-season facilities. But if you’re going to go away, this might be the best setup in the NFL. Spartanburg isn’t all that picturesque or glamorous. But the Wofford campus is gorgeous, particularly the football facilities. In case you’ve forgotten, team owner Jerry Richardson played football for Wofford -- and later, the Baltimore Colts, before starting to make his fortune with his first Hardee’s restaurant in Spartanburg -- and he paid for those facilities.

#offseason

http://espn.go.com/blog/nfcsouth/post/_/id/21968

[CatMan72]

Haven't been to many training camps, only the Skins and Panthers infact... and the Panthers TC setup is so far superior to the Skins it isn't even funny.

[I am Hubby]

I live in Sparkle City/Flag City/Spartanburg, and do hate to admit that, as a city, we are absolutely overly conservative. However, The Wofford campus, as well as the football facilities, is impressive. The facilities are an extension of the campus, not a distraction. Jerry did himself proud with how the facilities were designed to match up with the overall campus feel.

The one drawback of the football arena is the fact that there is only one tree for shade. Other than that, it is a great place to watch the Panthers practice. Most of the time you get a darn good look as to what is going on. Plus, you just might get your favorite players autograph.

I used to go to Lions TC, and you get no where near as close to the action, or players. The Wofford experience is by far more fan friendly. I never got Barry Sanders autograph, because I never got close enough to him to ask. But, I have quite a few Panther autographs, including Jakes.

So I can see why Wofford would be rated so highly. And GOOOO PANTHERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1

[Stroupe-a-loop]

I like Wofford. Go stand and watch the Panthers drill for a while, go get a sandwich, watch some crappy movie in one of the theaters, and go back and watch the team some more.

A fine way to spend a day.

[panthers55]

Nothing beats watching the Panthers practice from a few yards away. It is a great time for the adults and kids alike. Then you can go to the Beacon for a cheeseburger a plenty. IF you don't have a coronary from all the artery clogging food, it makes for a fine time for sure. The Panthers do a lot to make it a fine family atmosphere and we have enjoyed going down there for years.

[SCMunnerlyn1]

Nothing beats watching the Panthers practice from a few yards away. It is a great time for the adults and kids alike. Then you can go to the Beacon for a cheeseburger a plenty. IF you don't have a coronary from all the artery clogging food, it makes for a fine time for sure. The Panthers do a lot to make it a fine family atmosphere and we have enjoyed going down there for years.

How is it if you go alone? Was thinking about it this year .. was gonna try to get an autograph from the captain unless somebody else can snag me one?

[Sam Mills Fan]

Wofford is nice, but Spartanburg itself is pretty crappy.

[KintnerBoy]

I've never been to any other team training camp but going to Wofford you can get REALLY close to the guys practicing. During a defense drill in the the endzone we were basically standing beside the players while they went about their business. Only thing between us was a 3 foot fence.

Talking to my GF right now who is from PA and has been to a steelers pratice (barf) said that its nothing like what we are describing. She said they have to sit on a hill and watch from a distance.

[d-run]

I've never been to any other team training camp but going to Wofford you can get REALLY close to the guys practicing. During a defense drill in the the endzone we were basically standing beside the players while they went about their business. Only thing between us was a 3 foot fence.

Talking to my GF right now who is from PA and has been to a steelers pratice (barf) said that its nothing like what we are describing. She said they have to sit on a hill and watch from a distance.

I have been to a Steelers TC, and I can validate that statement. You could barely tell who was who.

Just so you know, I was visiting a good friend in Greensburg that is a big Steelers fan. That's why I was there.

[Panthercougar68]

I have been to a Steelers TC, and I can validate that statement. You could barely tell who was who.

Just so you know, I was visiting a good friend in Greensburg that is a big Steelers fan. That's why I was there.

I was about to say

;)

[panthers55]

How is it if you go alone? Was thinking about it this year .. was gonna try to get an autograph from the captain unless somebody else can snag me one?

Its fine. Still I like going with friends. Lots of time a group will go from the Huddle. Good way to meet folks. As for specific autographs,sometimes that is tough. Most days after practice they designate a group to give autographs like linebackers, or linemen, or receivers. If you happen to go when the defensive backfield is designated no worries. Sometimes you can catch folks as they go out to the field but you have to get their early. That was the only way you could Jake most of the time. Other guys like Smitty would autograph after most practices. But usually only for kids.

[The Saltman]

I had fun last training camp.

But Spartanburg is a hell hole.

[panthers55]

I had fun last training camp.

But Spartanburg is a hell hole.

One of the hottest humid places around. Almost sticky.

[SCMunnerlyn1]

Its fine. Still I like going with friends. Lots of time a group will go from the Huddle. Good way to meet folks. As for specific autographs,sometimes that is tough. Most days after practice they designate a group to give autographs like linebackers, or linemen, or receivers. If you happen to go when the defensive backfield is designated no worries. Sometimes you can catch folks as they go out to the field but you have to get their early. That was the only way you could Jake most of the time. Other guys like Smitty would autograph after most practices. But usually only for kids.

Well balls and wieners :( ... hmm well anybody who can acquire me said autograph then I shall pay thee based on quality of said autograph .. if you can get it on a ball $50 if something else at least $25 depending on what it is maybe more .. but no less than 25 for whoever can grab that for me.