FLORENCE, Ala. -- University of North Alabama Head Football Coach Chris Willis put more than 100 members of his Lion football squad through their first day of 2021 pre-season practice with a hour and a half session at Braly Stadium.

Willis said everyone was excited and ready to get started.

"The energy was the best that we've seen in a long time," Willis said. "After all the uncertainty  of everything that happened last year, the players and coaches are all excited for a fresh start. We're happy to be out here and we are going to take one day at a time."

The Lions held their first practice at Braly Stadium, while the finishing touches were being put on the new turf at the on campus field.

UNA will practice at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, on campus.