At the groundbreaking for the Washington Redskins’ new training camp in Richmond, the controversy over the team's name received more attention.
Earthmoving equipment hummed outside as Redskins General Manager Bruce Allen and Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell spoke at the ceremonial groundbreaking for what will officially be called the Bon Secours Redskins Training Center, but questions afterward focused on the team name and whether, with Native Americans and other critics increasing the pressure, the Redskins would consider a name change. Allen's one-word answer: No.
“It’s ludicrous to think in any way that we’re trying to upset anybody,” he said. “We’re proud of who we are and we’re proud of what we’re going to be and what we’re going to do here in the city of Richmond.”
The team is building a new training facility in the heart of Richmond behind the Science Museum of Virginia that will feature two football fields with improved spectator areas.
The fan experience at the new training camp will be worth the drive, Allen said.
“We do believe that we’re going to create a facility that will be copied by everybody in the NFL,” he said.
The most important part of the deal with the team was to keep the headquarters in Ashburn, Va., said McDonnell, whose wife is a former Redskins cheerleader.
“The biggest part of the incentive really was to keep the Washington Redskins permanently planted in Ashburn, Va.,” he said.
The training facility will be completed in time for training camp in July.
