It was Media Day at Memorial Coliseum on Monday evening, which meant most of the Mad Ants players sat around for about an hour, waiting for the 7 p.m. practice to start.

There were some interviews conducted by both print and TV types, but for the most part, nothing was accomplished.

The concern came from first-year coach Duane Ticknor, who was eyeing a camera crew at about 6:40, wondering if they'd be done by the time the Ants started practice.

It's something the players know and the fans have to find out about Ticknor: He's a stickler when it comes to being on time. And sure enough, when 7 o'clock came around, the cameras were off the floor and the players were on it.

The best part of Monday for the players was it marked the end of two-a-day practices. From now on, the Ants will practice just once at Concordia Seminary, usually around mid-morning.

The team begins its season Friday against Erie. Tipoff is 7:30 p.m.