Brad Slade’s preparation for the 2008 football season began long before warm weather and spring practice arrived on the campus of the University of Virginia’s College at Wise.

In fact, the 5-foot-11, 245-pound rising senior teamed with quarterback Randy Hippeard on some passing drills in frigid conditions.

"Even during Christmas Break," Slade said. "We were out here in a blizzard running routes and catching the ball. Me, Randy and all the receivers have been working hard out here all spring."

Those sessions have apparently paid off for the tight end. During Saturday’s 17th annual Red-Gray spring game at Carl Smith Stadium, Slade caught five passes for 76 yards.

The Midlothian, Va. native has earned rave reviews this spring for his pass-catching skills. He was a backup to Paul Williams at tight end last season and devoted most of his time to special teams.

He could emerge as a top target for Hippeard in 2008.

"He’s catching everything thrown at him – high, low, to the right, to the left," Hippeard said. "He’s snagging everything. And that’s been all spring, not just today."

Starting over

The 2007 season was certainly memorable for UVa.-Wise. The Highland Cavaliers went 9-2, won a share of the Mid-South Conference East Division title and the team’s high-octane offense set numerous school and conference records.

However, it ended in disappointment as the Cavs were left out of the NAIA playoffs. That could serve as motivation this fall.

"My coach in high school always told me, you’re only as good as your next game. And in ’08 we haven’t played any games yet," Hippeard said. "We’re starting from scratch and even though we didn’t make the playoffs, we still have a target on our back. We have to work hard over the summer and get out there and play football."

Barbour shop

Wide receiver Matt Barbour was sound as usual during Saturday’s intrasquad scrimmage. He caught six passes for 97 yards and hauled in a 23-yard scoring strike from Hippeard.

Barbour recorded 52 catches for 898 yards and five touchdowns last season.

Missing in Action

Among the players out with injuries for Saturday’s game were Hakeem Abdul-Saboor (wrist), Chris Laws (leg), fullback Joe Bodenheimer, wide receiver Aric Evans and former Richlands High School standout Brandon Gayheart.

This & that

Tailback Jyron Barclay collected 56 rushing yards … Hippeard finished with 284 passing yards … Several recruits and their families were on hand for the event, including recent signee Daniel Williams of St. Paul … UVa.-Wise was ranked 14th in the NAIA national coaches postseason poll.

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