The ACU football team hit the field for the first time in 2013 Tuesday to start spring practice.
After months of offseason workouts, the boys of fall are finally getting a chance to buckle up their chinstraps and get back on the gridiron.
“It was nice to get out there because we have been away from it for so long,” fullback Spencer Hittle said. “We are moving a lot of guys around and we have some transfers in but we hit the ground running. Friday we are putting on the pads, so personally I am itching to get out there and hit somebody and get back in the flow of things.”
The ‘Cats will have 15 practices during their spring season including three practices at Shotwell Stadium.
The players are also getting a chance to build some comradery for the upcoming season before the bright lights come on again in August.
“It’s great to get back to it because that’ll always be the fun part,” quarterback Jacoby Clay said. “You can get back on the field and be around the people you call your brothers and family.”
Although the Wildcats will not have an official spring game this year, there is plenty of anticipation for the ACU players, as they get closer to facing their first Division I schedule.
“We are ready for next year to be here,” Hittle said. “We can’t wait to get it going and play in Division I.”
Most coaching staffs use the spring as a time of transition and evaluation, and ACU is not any different. With a talented group of seniors leaving the Big Country behind, ACU fans will see some familiar faces in different roles.
“The energy and excitement from everybody has been good,” Clay said. “A lot of teaching and getting back into the groove of things.”
Quarterback John David Baker headlines a group of quarterbacks itching for a full-time job under center, while several Wildcats are learning new positions as well.
Justin Stephens will be moving from cornerback to safety with the departure of L.B. Suggs, and Cy Wilson will move from a crowded group of linebackers to fullback.
ACU’s spring practice will wrap up Tuesday April 16, which will be their last organized practice of the school year.
