The University Sioux Falls football team began preparations for the 2012 campaign today at the USF Sports Complex. Third-year head coach Jed Stugart welcomed back 102 players for the 93rd season of USF football. The squad began Friday with testing and team meetings, before concluding with equipment distribution. Saturday (Aug.11) marks the first day of practice which will be held at Bob Young Field at 3:00p.m. 

"We are excited to start moving forward with the 2012 season," said Stugart. "I feel like we have some outstanding leaders returning and young guys have shown a great deal of progression over the summer."

USF begins its season Thursday, Aug. 30, when they travel to St. Cloud, Minn. to face 2011 NSIC Co-Champions, St. Cloud State University. The Cougars, which won five of their final six games in 2011, return 58 letterwinners and 16 starters for the 2012 season.

2012 season tickets or single-game tickets are on sale now and can be purchased online at www.usfcougars.com or by phone at (605) 331-6791.

A full practice schedule (subject to change) can be found below.