Grizzlies open training camp; LB Gamboa suspended

MISSOULA – The Montana Grizzlies opened training camp Tuesday without starting linebacker Herbert Gamboa, who has been suspended for the team opener for a violation of team and athletic department rules.

Gamboa, a senior who earned all-Big Sky Conference honorable mention honors last season, was arrested early Friday morning after witnesses allegedly saw him challenging others to fight.

New UM head coach Bob Stitt welcomed 95 players to the first practice. Ten more are expected to join the team when school begins.

According to published reports Gamboa pleaded guilty Monday in Missoula Municipal Court to one disorderly conduct charge, a misdemeanor, and received a six-month deferred sentence.

Gamboa will miss Montana’s season opener against North Dakota State on Aug. 29. That game, which starts at 1 p.m., will be televised by ESPN with veteran announcer Brent Musburger at the microphone.

Gamboa started 13 games and had 107 tackles a year ago.

Stitt was happy with the enthusiasm on display at Tuesday’s workout.

“I thought the kids were flying around. It’s great to be out here, a lot of energy, a lot of retention. They really knew what they were doing (the returners), we just need to get the new guys polished up a little bit. But I’m happy with it.”

The Grizzlies, 9-5 a year ago under now-retired coach Mick Delaney, have 20 newcomers at the wide receiver position.

One of the new faces on defense is safety Yamen Sanders, a 6-4, 210-pound transfer from the University of Arizona.

“I thought it was a good practice. I liked it. Finally getting to strap the helmet on and play with my new teammates,” said Sanders.

Stitt lauded the efforts of his veteran players.

“A lot of our older guys were coaching up our younger guys,” Stitt said. “Just a really good vibe today.”

Practice continues Wednesday morning at 9 with a helmets-only workout. The team dons shoulder pads for the first time on Thursday and Friday. The first practice is full pads is Saturday.