CLINTON, S.C. – The Presbyterian College football team began its preparation for the 2016 season on Friday with its first preseason practice on the Pondo.

“I thought we attacked the field and did the things that we asked these kids to do,” said head coach Harold Nichols. “We had great enthusiasm today and the first day you have that excitement that the season has started. I always enjoy that first day of fall practice.”

The Blue Hose worked for just over two hours on what turned out to be a hot afternoon in Clinton, S.C. The team went through a number of drills for the majority of practice with the players in helmets and shorts for the first day of fall camp.

“I was really proud of the way that kids came out today,” Nichols said. “We had no issues with attitude and effort and as long as we have then we at least give ourselves a chance. We have a lot of work to do but I saw a lot of good and positive things.”

A number of new faces made their way to the field for the first time to join PC's returners, including 12 returning starters from last season's squad. First team All-Big South running back Darrell Bridges and returning quarterback Ben Cheek helped lead the offensive unit on day one, while preseason All-Conference pick Obinna Ntiasagwe and the defensive front leads the opposite side of the ball.

PC will begin its 104th season of football in just 27 days with a road trip to Central Michigan. The Blue Hose will practice in shorts and helmets again on Saturday, before adding shoulder pads for Sunday's and Monday's practices.