MySa Blog: Only one problem with holding camp in San Antonio

By Tom Orsborn on Jun 18, 09 08:38 AM

After spending last summer training in Oxnard, Calif., the Cowboys are eager to return to the Alamo City.

Several players said yesterday on the final day of minicamp that they love California, but that San Antonio is the perfect spot for camp.

Well, almost.

Although they enjoy working in the climate-controlled Alamodome, some players aren't looking forward to spending three weeks running on field turf.

"It beats your knees up, man, wears them down," receiver Patrick Crayton said. "But, you know, it's just part of the job. Everybody in the league has it now. You have a few natural grass fields, but, for the most part, it's field turf because you don't have to maintain it. It's cheaper."

But Crayton and several other players say S.A.'s proximity to Dallas offsets having to practice on turf.

"It's only 3 1/2 hours from home," Crayton said. "That really helps because all your family and stuff can come down. That's the main thing."

The Cowboys report to camp July 27, with practice beginning the next day. The workouts are free and open to the public.