Terps make moves to deal with heat

COLLEGE PARK, Md. — Maryland interim coach Matt Canada has taken steps to ensure that the Terrapins are poised to deal with the heat of summer during his practices following the death of offensive lineman Jordan McNair.

In the first workout since Maryland publicly accepted responsibility for mistakes that contributed to McNair’s death, two tents were in the place at the practice field Wednesday to provide shade. Underneath the awnings were fans, liquids and ice.

Practice sessions have been shortened to less than two hours, with time for breaks.

“The focus of our player’s health and safety is No. 1, and our players are feeling that

and understanding that,” Canada said.

Overcome by heat and exhaustion, the 6-foot-4, 325-pound McNair collapsed during a conditioning drill on May 29. He died on June 13. According to the family attorney, the preliminary death certificate listed the cause of death as heatstroke.

The school accepted responsibility Tuesday for mistakes made in treating McNair at the scene, and promised safety would never again be an issue.

Canada, in charge after head coach DJ Durkin was placed on administrative leave Saturday, took visible steps in that direction.

“We have two cooling tents, water, Gatorade, snacks in the breaks, all those things,” he said.