Aug. 10, 2004

Charleston, SC - The first fall practice under first-year head coach John Zernhelt was a success as the 2004 Citadel football team began its preparation for the upcoming season late Tuesday afternoon on Summerall Field.

"It feels good to get out on the field and get started," Zernhelt stated. "It is hard to get an idea of what kind of team you are going to have when all they have on is helmets and shorts."

The Bulldogs' first four practices, including this afternoon's, will be in shorts and shells according to new NCAA legislation. Coach Zernhelt will get his first look at his team in full pads on Saturday, August 14.

Zernhelt likes what he sees, but is cautious to expand on the probability of success due to the new rules set forth by the NCAA.

"Things went well today," added Zernhelt. "The timing was good and the guys seemed to be in pretty good shape, which is about all you can ask for on day one."

The Bulldogs will continue to prepare for Charleston Southern, the Citadel's opponent on September 4, as they return to Summerall Field tomorrow afternoon for day two of the 2004 preseason camp.