football
06/08/2022 14:34:00
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August 6, 2022
STORRS – EJ Barthel always comes to football camp ready to work. With his NFL experience and now running backs coach at the University of Connecticut, he expects the same level of attitude from his players.
“At my last stop, I had the opportunity to coach Christian McCaffrey, Mike Davis and some guys from the Carolina Panthers,” Barthel says. “I expect the same level and level of urgency with our group here. We have a talented group.”
After a few days of fall camp, UConn’s running back core has been as competitive as any group on the team. Whether it’s through simple drills or one-on-ones against a new and improved UConn defense, he always demands that players “hit the rock.”
Husky racers are putting that statement into practice. A look at UConn’s fall camp shows every running back working hard, determined to earn their shot, with an intense coach Barthel looking to push his players hard.
With the help of his work with Barthel in the offseason, his work is being rewarded with results. Sophomore Nathan Carter credits Barthel with significant improvements in his technique and the ability to make more moves at the second level for the extra yards. It’s the little things, like going over film to gauge improvements, that help the UConn sophomore take his game to the next level.
“From spring ball until now, Coach Barthel has helped me improve and he wants me to continue to improve heading into the season,” Carter says.
Barthel came to Connecticut with a wealth of talent and career experience. After stepping foot on campus and speaking with head coach Jim Mora for the first time, Barthel knew coaching at UConn offered a special opportunity.
“After my first discussion with Coach Mora, the resume speaks for itself,” Barthel says. “There’s a lot of experience I can learn from him and I think he injects that into the rest of his staff.”
Now with the opportunity to coach at UConn, Barthel is relishing the opportunity. As the Huskies look to increase their performance, Barthel is always looking to improve his players and pass on the wisdom he has gained throughout his professional football career.
“I think you take a small part of everyone you work with,” Barthel says. “I put my own spin on it. Even the guys on our own staff, we learn from each other.”