Mike Macdonald kicked off his first training camp as head coach with an interaction with the fans.
Before starting the Seattle Seahawks training camp on Wednesday, Macdonald pumped up the crowd gathered on the grassy berm overlooking the team’s practice fields by waving his arms.
Two hours later, he returned to the same spot to sign autographs for fans who stayed until the end.
“I’m filled with joy being in this setting, with this organization, in this city, with our fans and our players. It’s a special day and a great beginning with the team,” Macdonald said.
While the new era in Seattle officially began in January when Pete Carroll left after 14 seasons and Macdonald became the youngest head coach in the league, the transition truly started with the beginning of training camp. The team has 6 1/2 weeks to prepare for their season opener at home against Denver on September 8.
Macdonald is tasked with leading the Seahawks forward after Carroll’s successful tenure, which included five division titles, two NFC championships, and the team’s only Super Bowl victory.
Macdonald’s goal is to return Seattle to prominence in the NFL, but for now, he is focused on the day-to-day operations of his first training camp.
“Before practice, it felt different coming out here, realizing I’m responsible for what happens. It’s pretty exciting,” Macdonald said.
On his first day, Macdonald saw what he expected: linebackers Tyrel Dodson and Jerome Baker returning from injuries, accurate passes from Geno Smith, and impressive catches by DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett.
