Tuesday, September 24, 1996
"It looks like we're going to take several commuter flights from Fresno to Los Angeles," coach Fred vonAppen said before yesterday's light workout at Cooke Field.
"This is the kind of thing we've been hoping to get because it's a five-hour bus ride from Los Angeles to Fresno."
Two of the next three games are on the road for the Rainbows. After going to Fresno State this weekend, they return home for another Western Athletic Conference encounter with Colorado State, then head back to California for the matchup with San Diego State.
"And I heard it was possible that game time might be changed if the San Diego Padres are in the playoffs," vonAppen said.
"It's possible the game would be moved to Saturday morning or afternoon. It might even be played on Friday because apparently, in that situation, major-league baseball rules."
As for the Air Force Academy game in late October, the Rainbows will fly to San Francisco on a regular flight, then charter from there to Colorado Springs, Colo.
Both players' knee injuries have been slow to respond, leaving them listed as doubtful for Saturday's game at Fresno State.
"They haven't come around as quickly as I would have liked," vonAppen said. "It doesn't look like either guy will be making the trip with us."
The news was better concerning tight end Ryan Green, who confirmed yesterday that he would be returning to the University of Pacific to play basketball next semester. His bruised chest wasn't as bad as first expected. He and strong safety Doe Henderson, who missed the last game with a torn calf muscle, will make the trip.
"There's no way I can't go because the team needs me," Green said. "Besides, I have too many family and friends coming over to see me play."
Henderson returned punts during yesterday's practice.
It's possible Shane Oliveira won't be able to play because of a bad back and heel problems. VonAppen said he needs to rest or he won't get better. Oliveira has started 20 consecutive games.
"We'll also welcome back Sam Collins, who missed the last game because his uncle died," vonAppen said. "Apparently, this man practically raised Sam, so we let him go to the funeral. He'll be back with us (today)."
Offensive lineman Gary Krug, who underwent surgery for a torn anterior cruciate ligament in April, could be joining the team soon. He said yesterday he had to visit the doctor before gaining final clearance.