For Scott Harding, playing receiver is like riding a bike.
And Harding, who has logged time on an exercise bicycle during training camp, proved on Thursday that he still is a reliable receiver.
Harding caught two 12-yard scoring passes during a scrimmage-like session. For the majority of camp, Harding wore the yellow jersey indicating non-contact status. On Thursday, he was back in the offense’s white jersey.
"It was my first day really getting in there and taking the bulk of the reps with the (first team)," Harding said. "It was good."
Harding is used as a slot receiver, punter, punt returner, holder and off-set kickoff returner.
He said he has endured numerous ailments, "little things going on."
UH coach Norm Chow decided to limit Harding’s exposure to contact in spring practice and training camp.
"You treat everybody fairly but not equally," Chow said of the restrictions. "He’s proven himself. You’re not going to treat Jim Brown like some rookie."
There was another factor. Harding recently turned 28, having played six years of Australian rules football before enrolling at UH in July 2011.
"The coaches knew I had a big workload last year," Harding said. "They wanted to make sure I was healthy for this season."
Strength and conditioning coordinator Gary Beemer designed an offseason program to strengthen Harding’s core.
"It was a few things to make sure I didn’t get any injuries in the weight room," Harding said. "It was protective stuff to make sure my body’s going to be healthy for this year."
Last year, Harding had 56 punts and 21 punt returns. But he treasures his role as a receiver. He caught 56 passes for 631 yards in 2013.
"I like to catch passes," said Harding, who has created an easy bond with No. 1 quarterback Ikaika Woolsey.
During Thursday’s drills, Harding said, "I didn’t seem to be off on a different page with Ikaika."
Chow said: "He knows he can do all the other stuff. He wants to be a receiver."
As always, Harding ran at top speed while mixing in jukes.
"You have to calm him down," Chow said, noting the Warriors have more than two weeks before the season opener against Washington. "I told him: ‘It’s Aug. 14. I need you Aug. 30.’ "
Harding said: "I enjoy taking as much responsibility as possible. I love it, especially because I’m a leader now. I’m a senior. I want to take the team on top of my back and have them go with me."
