Jacksonville opens fall practice amid soaring numbers

The Jacksonville Indians ushered in a new tradition Monday evening by opening fall practice at the Historic Tomato Bowl.

By doing so, it seemed to put some pep in the step of team members, as around 100 fans were in the seats watching things unfold on the field.

One former Indian and Southern Nazarene University signee, Jordan Dorsey, who was in attendance offered his take on what the change was received by the team.

“It is really exciting for these guys to be able to practice in the Tomato Bowl instead of at Happy Valley (training grounds) or Cook Field,” Dorsey said. “It means a lot to be able to practice with parents and fans watching on.”

Around 85 young men, varsity and junior varsity, dressed out for Day 1 of fall drills; which was about a 30% increase from last season.

Jacksonville is led by new athletic director and head football coach Montey Stevenson, who was hired in February to guide the Tribe.

Prior to his arrival in Jacksonville, Stevenson served as the defensive coordinator at Alvarado High School.

The Tribe seem to be responding well to the positive reinforcement and nurturing ways of Stevenson and his newly assembled assistant coaching staff.

Monday’s training session was filled with energy and featured a great deal of one-on-one teaching from Stevenson and company.

“Let’s do it until we can’t get it wrong,” Stevenson said to the team during a 7-on-7 drill, as much attention was given to detail and doing things correctly from the get go.

In his opening talk to the team, Stevenson emphasized discipline and going out and “flying around and having fun.”

Fans will have their first opportunity to see the Indians go up against another foe at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, Aug, 15, when the Tribe host Palestine in the first of two preseason dress rehearsals.