Dom Amore: Jason Candle’s whirlwind rebuild yields a whole new UConn football team

[huskymedic]

-> There’s no way of knowing this frigid February how all these players and coaches will work out, but to get this much done in this short a time certainly shows high-level energy, high-level organization, unfathomable relentlessness. Where would one find a template for such a task?

“Roster construction is more an art than a science,” Candle said. “(Just because) something works at one particular place does not necessarily mean it’s going to work for another. There are some clear examples in college football of how people have done it the last two years, but there is another element to this in that these are uncharted waters. There is only one portal window, one crack at this. There is no going back, this is our team, there is no going back, so you have to be super-intentional in the month of January, keep your eyes focused on what you need to be focused on.” <-

-> There are some things I have a high level of respect for that I’ve come across,” Candle said. “Inside out on this campus, there are a bunch of highly intelligent people who are very passionate about their place, really want to be successful. You go through our athletic department, there are coaches who expect greatness out of their individual sport. That’s encouraging to be around. You want to surround yourself with winners, be around a place where nobody wants to be the weakest link. We have that kind of mentality. It’s reassuring that everybody’s moving in the right direction here.” <-

 

[Skiblets]

He acquitted himself so well throughout that presser

 

[huskymedic]

The Hearst version:

 

[FfldCntyFan]

It's extremely early, but from all appearances to date I believe we've struck gold.

 

[Jimdish255]

Nothing flashy. Kinda like a worksite pouring the foundation and getting ready to frame up.

 

[Woof 101]

I like what you say, but so many bought into Diaco... Coach Candle seams to not talk about fantasies like fish cakes. Warde stubbed his toe on that one. Dave had a list and did not hesitate to use it. I'm all in with seasons tickets, this with a completely new team and very challenging schedule. Go Huskies light up The Candle Challenge!

 

[CCSUblue]

He said he joked it's the first and last time he's going to have to build a roster this way. Here's hoping his culture translates to Connecticut.

 

[HCCForever]

Great start so far. I’m pumped for the upcoming season. Hopefully the work of Candle and the staff translates to success on the field.

 

[ShakyTheMohel]

This might be the hardest season we have ever had to figure out how good the team will be. By everything I have seen, the roster looks great.

I think he is smart in letting the fans get familiar with the team in the spring game.

 

[nycscooby]

You can see the man has a plan! Love it! !