How to See the Washington Redskins Summer Training Camp

So you're a die-hard fan of the Washington Redskins and you just can't wait for fall to see your favorite team in action. Or perhaps you're fan on a budget, and you just can't afford the price of a regular season ticket. Well, how would you like to see your favorite team play for free and a whole two months before the regular season begins? All you have to do is register for your free invitation to Redskins training camp.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer with Internet access and printer
• Chair, blanket, or clothing that won't show grass stains
• Cash
• Credit card
• Autograph book

1. Check the Redskins website to find out the dates that training camp is being held. Be sure to check the times, too. Some of the practices open to the public are held first thing in the morning.
2. Look on a map to determine just how far away training camp is being held this year. Training camp has moved around a bit over the years, being held in such places as Frostburg, MD, Carlisle, PA, and Ashburn, VA, and may move to Virginia Beach, VA for summer 2009. While all of these places are within a few hours' drive of the Washington, DC area, some are far enough away that you may want to plan an overnight stay as part of your trip.
3. Fill out an online application to receive an invitation to training camp for you and any guests you will be bringing with you. One invitation will be enough for the entire party. Remember to print out the invitation and put it in your wallet or another safe place so you'll be sure to have it with you when you get there.
4. Slather on the sunscreen and remember your hat and sunglasses. Practices tend to last between 90 minutes to two hours, which is plenty of time to get a sunburn if you're not careful.
5. Pack a picnic lunch (or breakfast) if you'd like. If you prefer to purchase food onsite, there will be concessions vendors available.
6. Bring your own chair or blanket to sit on. There will be no bleachers set up for the practice games, although there will be a few picnic tables.
7. Get to the practice field early if you can to get a good parking space. The lots open 90 minutes before practice starts, and the gates open one hour ahead of time.
8. Shop for Redskins souvenirs at the retail trailers. These vendors do accept credit cards, so you can purchase the more expensive items without having to deplete your stash of cash.
9. Bring your autograph book or other Redskins memorabilia. Although there are no official autograph sessions, you may get lucky and score one from a player or coach.

Tips & Warnings

• Check the Redskins website to find out if any practices are canceled or times changed due to inclement weather.
• Bring cash if you'd like to buy food or drinks. Concessions sales are cash only, and there are no ATMs onsite.
• Do not bring any alcoholic beverages into training camp.
• No video cameras are allowed at the practice games.