ATHENS, Ga. () — Georgia head football coach Kirby Smart mentioned Calvary Day alum Thomas Blackshear in his most recent press conference.

During head coach Kirby Smart’s media session on August 12, Brooks Austin, the lead editor for Georgia Bulldogs on SI, asked him about Thomas Blackshear and Rasean Dinkins and their performance during the opening days of fall camp.

“They worked out hard all summer,” commented Smart. “In the past, those guys would have started in August. Now, they arrive in the summer, which isn’t actually late since we’re doing much more in the summer to get these young guys ready. Over the summer, they’re able to walk, eat, condition, and participate in various activities. They’re probably similar to our mid-year enrollees from spring, experiencing a bit of a shock with the practice tempo and the volume they have to manage.”

“Thomas [Blackshear] has been dealing with a persistent groin injury, which limits his ability to handle the full workload of reps. It’s tough since camp doesn’t allow much time for recuperation. Still, he’s made appearances on special teams. As for [Rasean] Dinkins, he’s a promising player, young and still in the learning phase, but he’s instinctive and has a solid understanding of football.”

The University of Georgia football team recently completed its first scrimmage as the Bulldogs continue fall camp.

Georgia opens the season Aug. 30 at home against Marshall at 3:30 p.m.