FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. – Today was the first day of physical activity dedicated to preparing for the upcoming 2015 football season. Northern Arizona opened spring practice today on the upper fields and there were plenty of people in attendance to see what the Lumberjacks would have in store.

"The excitement we had today was authentic and genuine," said head coach Jerome Souers. "I think our players were really plugged in today and we got a lot of work done the first day. The players came out prepared and I'm pleased with what I saw."

The Lumberjacks hit the field for the first of 15 practices for the spring. After having the previous two and a half months to work on their strength and conditioning, it was beneficial for the players to get out there and get adjusted to the new lineup. While most programs have already completed spring football, NAU does there's a little later in the spring.

"It gives us more time to lift and to prepare," Souers said. "Having three practices a week gives us a little time in between. This is a critical time of the year. We only get a select number of workouts so we like to make the most of it."

2015 NAU Football Spring Practice Dates

March 26: 4-6 p.m.

March 28: 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

March 31: 4-6 p.m.

April 2: 4-6 p.m.

April 4: 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

April 7: 4-6 p.m.

April 9: 4-6 p.m.

April 11: 2-4 p.m. - Lower Field

April 14: 4-6 p.m.

April 16: 4-6 p.m.

April 18: 10 a.m.-12 p.m. - Lower Field

April 21: 4-6 p.m.

April 24: 4-6 p.m.

April 25: Spring Game – 2 p.m. – Lumberjack Stadium

*All practices will be at the upper fields unless otherwise noted. Dates and times are subject to change.