5 Reasons to go to Training Camp, 5 Reasons not to go

Training camp is getting underway for the New England Patriots. Although I've only been to two days of camp, here are five reasons to go to Foxboro to watch the Pats practice. There are also some reasons to stay home in your air conditioning.

Reasons to go:
1. It's free - Admission to practice and parking around Gillette Stadium is free. For a chance to watch the Patriots do anything, let alone practice, you can't beat that price. It is a great place to relax and socialize with fellow Pats fans.
2. New players - Last season it was exciting to watch Chad Ochocinco practice in a Patriots uniform. I got to see Ochocinco make more receptions in one drill than we saw him catch all season. Fans will get a first chance to see some of New England's draft picks and free agent signings take the field in Foxboro for the first time. You also have a front row seat to see which players may make coach Bill Belichick's roster, or get cut.
3. Love for Tom Brady - Whether you're a man or a woman, if you're a true Pats fan, you love Tommy. The chance to watch him toss the pigskin around without have to pay admission doesn't come around too often. Well, actually, it comes around once a year.
4. Autographs - If you're a youngster, or a parent, the post-practice autograph sessions are great to meet some of the squad and score a signature of one of your favorite players. There is also a Patriots Fan Zone in the parking lot next to Gillette Stadium for kids to enjoy.
5. The Red Sox are in last place - Enough said.

Reasons not to go:
1. Weather - You may get a sunburn, or poured on. Depending on where you sit, it could be tough to find shade while watching camp. If the New England weather changes quickly, you may have a five minute walk to your car, or the shops and restaurants at Patriot Place to try to take cover.
2. "We're talking about practice, man, practice." - Allen Iverson said it best when it comes to practice. Training camp sessions aren't even preseason games. There's no opponent and no score. If you're looking for an adrenaline rush, wait until playoff time.
3. Seating - Training camp is held on the practice fields next to Gillette Stadium, so if you're used to a "suite" life in Foxboro, training camp may be a little bit different. You may not be able to find a seat in the metal bleachers. There is a grassy hill but it may not be the most comfortable place to sit to watch an entire practice.
4. Better local options - You may be better served heading to Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard or Boston to enjoy a beautiful day instead of Foxboro. It's no secret New England is one of the best summer destinations in the country.
5. Just go - For any diehard, or New Englander looking for a daycation this month, Patriots training camp is worth going to.