Ron Rivera Returns To Training Camp

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SPARTANBURG, SC — Tuesday is day five of training camp for the Panthers in Spartanburg. Monday, the team welcomed back Coach Ron Rivera.

The head coach missed both weekend practices to attend the funeral of his older brother Mickey, who lost his battle with pancreatic cancer last week.

Rivera, happy to be back with his team, returned on the hottest day so far of training camp with the heat index reaching 109 degrees.

The head coach kept up with practice via Twitter and film from his assistants.  He says the last few days have been tough, and thanked Panther Nation for its support.

“The response I’ve gotten from the players, the coaches, the organization, Mr. Richardson, the support he gave us the last two days has been tremendous,” said Rivera.  “And then the fans. The fans have been tremendous as well, and I really do appreciate it.  You know, it’s tough, to be in a situation like that, but being able to be there for my parents and the rest of my family was pretty good.”

Rivera returned to camp Sunday night, just in time for the team meeting.  In his message to his players, he included an inspirational story about his brother Mickey, and how he made a total commitment in his life.