BIG RAPIDS - Surrounded by hills of snow, at Top Taggart Field, Ferris State University's football team finally began its spring drills on Thursday afternoon.The snow that covered Top Taggart Field earlier in the week was removed in time for Thursday's practice session in the stadium. With the snow pushed to the perimeter of the playing surface, the players and coaches were on the turf running through their drills without pads as they loosened up to begin spring practice.
Ferris head coach Jeff Pierce has an interesting mix of seniors and juniors who have been through a lot of battles to blend together with some up-and-comers looking to fill in roles vacated by seniors who exited the program at the close of the 2010 fall campaign.
One of the major things that the coaches drilled into the players, on day one of spring practice, was enthusiasm. With veteran leaders like quarterback Tom Schneider, receiver Mike Ryan, lineman Jordan Morgan and others, Ferris should have no shortage of players with experience, leadership and enthusiasm.
Offensive coordinator Chris Boden emphasized that to his unit one time in particular as he reminded them that the best teams are the teams with the most enthusiasm.
Defensive coordinator and assistant head coach Duane Wilson worked with his group and reminded them of the importance of hustling on the field and working hard through each drill.
Indeed, it was back to normal for the Bulldogs - at least for the spring. It's just the beginning of what will be a spirited spring of practice for Ferris.
