Mike Norvell addresses positive impact of having camp at new location
Florida State had a bit of a change of scenery for its 2023 fall camp. The Seminoles headed up north to practice at North Florida in Jacksonville. It is something the Seminoles have done before in the past, and recently, head coach Mike Norvell explained the kind of impact it will have on the team for this season.
“For us, it’s just being together. Last night, we had an event; it was really good with our team,” said Norvell. “It’s an opportunity to bond. Guys that might not be roommates when you’re at home, come here, and they now they get to live together for a for a few days. Just continue to build the relationships.
“I think it’s just a great setting for us. Really appreciate North Florida for the work. Some of us have been coming here for the last few years. You see the investment in the field—the investment in the space. I mean, we’re really grateful for the opportunity, and you know our guys they appreciate the time together.”
Developing team chemistry will be fundamental for Florida State this season. The Seminoles have a very legitimate chance to build off of a wildly successful 2022 campaign, finishing the year 10-3. For many, the Seminoles have a chance of representing the ACC in this year’s College Football Playoff. But first, they must get past an opponent in week one with similar aspirations in the LSU Tigers. With their season opener less than three weeks away, Florida State fans will soon get to see the fruits of the Seminoles’ labor in North Florida.
Norvell reflects on pivotal quote following 0-4 start in 2021
It wasn’t always coming up aces for the Seminoles under Norvell. Flashback to late Sept. 2021. Florida State had just lost their opening four games of the season, with Louisville being the latest. Notre Dame and Wake Forest were able to get wins, as well as Jacksonville State — an FCS program. An incredibly rough start to Year Two for Norvell in Tallahassee.
Two years later and the process seems to be complete. Florida State is a preseason top-10 team in the AP poll and was voted second in the preseason ACC poll. There is belief Norvell could get his team to the College Football Playoff but crucial games are ahead.
Before the season begins on Sept. 3 vs. LSU, Norvell reflected on his rant with On3’s Andy Staples. The culture has changed for Florida State, even if there have still be tough moments. Getting up and responding in a positive fashion has been the response Norvell has wanted throughout.
“I’m really proud of the guys that have been through that journey,” Norvell said. “I’m proud of the guys that have chosen to come and be a part of it. Even through some challenging moments, guys have embraced it. We’ve worked our butt off and guys have stepped up. You feel that in the culture of this team. This is a team that likes to compete, they want to work.