Ravens to Hold Three Open Practices, None at McDaniel

For many Westminster folks, and in fact for many Ravens fans living throughout the state, July had meant a trip (or five) to McDaniel College to see how the team was shaping up.

Last year's kept the team from practicing at McDaniel and following the season, for training camp.

It was the end of an era for many city and county residents who grew up watching the Colts and then the Ravens sweat under the hot July sun on McDaniel's fields. Even national media called the team out for abandoning tradition. The team cited convenience and cost for its decision to train at the Ravens' Owings Mills' facility.

In spite of some hurt feelings—maybe even some anger and resentment—Westminster rallied behind the Ravens, even on Main Street to show support for the team.

The Baltimore Sun reported that the Ravens have announced three open practice sessions in August. None of the scheduled practice sessions pay homage to the tradition of kicking off the season at .

According to the Sun, the Ravens will have open practices on Aug. 4 at M&T Bank Stadium, Aug. 12 at the Naval Academy and Aug. 19 at Stevenson University.

But perhaps the Ravens haven't forgotten their history altogether. According to a blog on Baltimoreravens.com, the team has donated $100,000 to the building of . The stadium project began last month and is expected to be completed by the first Green Terror football game in September.

McDaniel College President Dr. Roger Casey said the college was honored by the Ravens' donation.

"This $100,000 gift for the Kenneth R. Gill Stadium, which marks the latest act in the Ravens' longstanding relationship with McDaniel and Westminster, will strengthen our athletic program just as we hope that McDaniel's longtime relationship with the Ravens aided in their success," Casey sayd.  "I think McDaniel green and Ravens purple make for a winning combination on the football field."