SWOSU Opens Football Drills with 107 Players

August 4, 2005

Weatherford, OK - Southwestern Oklahoma State University began preparations for the 2005 football season Wednesday with 107 players reporting for the beginning of fall drills.

Physicals, team meetings and equipment checkout were held that day, with the Bulldogs holding their first practice Thursday morning. SWOSU will continue single-day practices each morning at 8:30 a.m. Weight-lifting sessions, film study, and position meetings will be in the afternoon and evenings Two-a-days set to begin Monday, Aug. 8 which will also be the first day in full pads.

New coach Ryan Held was pleased with the enthusiasm and positive attitude carried by this year's team. He and his revamped coaching staff are working to improve on last year's 1-9 record.

"It's very apparent we have upgraded our overall team strength, speed and size," Held said. "It will be a very competitive camp at all positions. That is something that we emphasized when we went out and recruited kids to come here. No guarantees have been made and each player can win himself a job."

The public is invited to attend SWOSU's Annual Photo/Media day on Wednesday, Aug. 10 beginning at 1:30 p.m. at Milam Field. The Bulldog players and coaches will be in complete game uniform gear and be available on the game field for pictures and/or interviews.

The Bulldogs open the season at home Thursday, Aug. 25 against Oklahoma Panhandle State.