Veltkamp, Messer Shine as FAU Kicks Off Training Camp Under Kittley
Veltkamp, Messer Shine as FAU Kicks Off Training Camp Under Kittley
BOCA RATON, FL - Spirits were high on Wednesday as FAU began its first training camp under new head coach Zach Kittley, who was previously Texas Tech’s offensive coordinator. Kittley is looking to revitalize a program that has failed to meet expectations over the past few seasons, finishing just 1-7 in conference play last year, and firing now-former HC Tom Herman mid-season.
A program revitalization will have to start with Caden Veltkamp and Easton Messer, both of whom transferred from Western Kentucky, following a successful 8-6 season in which they finished 6-2 in C-USA play. Veltkamp, the 2024 C-USA Offensive Player of the Year, threw for over 3,100 yards last season, with nearly 800 of them going to Easton Messer. When asked about the two’s chemistry, Coach Kittley stated, “I mean, they’re best friends, they’re roommates, they spend millions of hours together.”
Video courtesy of FAU Owl’s Nest (YouTube)
It’s also worth noting the substantial number of veterans on the roster. When asked about veteran leadership, Coach Kittley pinpointed Tyler Stolsky — a redshirt junior who transferred from Minnesota — emphasizing how he got after newcomers the right way when they weren’t doing the drill the proper way. Coach additionally mentioned CJ Doggette Jr. and Caden Veltkamp as leaders who impressed him.
Image courtesy of Aiden Herzog-FAU Night Owls
In other news, Offensive Lineman Ja’Kavion Nonar is battling for increased playing time. The 6’8, 315 lb redshirt junior got the majority of his reps on special teams last season; however, with the departure of various senior offensive linemen, such as Andre Lamas and Malcolm Lamar, Nonar has a chance to become a vital part of the O-line.
Video courtesy of Ryan Schlesinger-FAU Night Owls