UCLA Takes Fall Camp on the Road at Great Park
IRVINE, Calif. — UCLA football spent part of its preseason camp at Great Park Sports Complex this month, giving the Bruins a change of scenery as head coach Bob Chesney continues preparing the program for the 2026 season.
Rather than remaining in Westwood throughout camp, UCLA relocated to Irvine for several days as the coaching staff looked to simulate a road-trip environment before the season begins. Players lived together, practiced away from campus and experienced many of the routines that come with traveling during the regular season.
For Chesney, the move was about more than football. The first-year head coach emphasized team chemistry, leadership and building connections throughout the roster. By spending time together away from campus, the Bruins were able to strengthen relationships while continuing to install new systems on both sides of the ball.
On the field, practices remained highly competitive. UCLA’s offense continued working through situational drills while the defense focused on creating pressure and forcing mistakes. The intensity of camp increased as players competed for starting roles ahead of the season opener.
Quarterback Nico Iamaleava remained one of the primary storylines throughout camp as he continues developing chemistry with a revamped group of receivers. Meanwhile, veterans on both sides of the ball have taken on larger leadership roles as the Bruins adjust to a new coaching staff and system.
The Great Park setting also provided UCLA with high-quality facilities while helping preserve practice fields back in Westwood. The complex, which has hosted major sporting events and training camps, offered the Bruins an ideal environment to continue preparations for the upcoming season.
As camp progresses, the Bruins continue to focus on improving execution, communication and consistency. Every practice brings UCLA one step closer to kickoff, with players and coaches working to establish the foundation for Chesney’s first season leading the program.
While the move to Irvine only lasted a portion of camp, the experience provided valuable opportunities for team bonding and growth. The Bruins hope the lessons learned during their week at Great Park will carry over once the regular season begins.
With the season opener approaching, UCLA leaves Irvine with increased confidence, stronger chemistry and a clearer understanding of the standards the new coaching staff expects moving forward.
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