Vikings Training Camp Underway

Ah, it's that time of year again! The yearly ramp-up before the NFL season begins and the Vikings' trek to Mankato begins. Last year, Minnesota Connected was able to chronicle some of training camp. This past Saturday marked the 2015 report date for the players, but Sunday was the first open practice held by head coach Mike Zimmer (full schedule here). Practice runs each day 10:30-11 a.m. and 2:45-5 p.m. The players (including Adrian Peterson! who was welcomed back by the team) begin practicing in full pads Thursday and camp runs past the Aug. 9 preseason game in Canton, Ohio against the Pittsburgh Steelers in the Hall of Fame Game. In the last week of camp, fans will be able to head to the designated autograph zone for a chance to snag an autograph from their favorite and/or new acquisitions. The morning session is split by position (full details here). Other kid-friendly options exist including a punt, pass and kick competition, junior training camp and junior cheer camp (full details here). Family Appreciation day on Aug. 1 includes a team introduction and fireworks show, while Fan Appreciation day on Aug. 13 (the final day) includes prizes and more fun to close out training camp. As always, the event can be fun for any football fan who's ready for the season to gear up sooner, rather than later.   Photo by: Matthew Deery