TOWSON, Md. - In 90-degree heat with high humidity, the Tiger football team began its pre-season preparation on Friday afternoon when the Tigers held their first practice of the pre-season.
Under the direction of Coach Rob Ambrose and his staff, 93 players, including 38 returning letter winners, staged a spirited practice despite the heat. On their opening day of practice, the Tigers worked out for more than two-and-a-half hours.
"I love this kind of weather for practice," said Ambrose. "If I had my way, it would be like this every day.
Despite the heat and humidity, Coach Ambrose was pleased with the first practice of the pre-season.
"It was better than last year and the year before," he explained. "But it isn't good enough.
"Our players need to understand that what we did last year won't work this year," Ambrose added. "We have to work harder and prepare harder. Our schedule is much tougher and we aren't going sneak up on anyone."
Last season, the Tigers were the most improved team in Division I football, bettering their 2010 record by 7.5 games. Towson finished the season as the ninth-ranked team in FCS and won its first-ever Colonial Athletic Association championship. Towson made its first appearance in the NCAA FCS playoffs.
"I have told our players that our game is circled on everyone's schedule," added Ambrose. "Every team we play in the CAA will be out to beat us. Last year, we surprised a lot of people and ruined some Homecomings. But, that was last year. We need to be better this time around."
The Tigers, who will hold their second pre-season practice on Saturday, are preparing for a challenging 11-game schedule that opens on Aug. 30 at Kent State.
Season tickets for
Towson University football are on sale now by calling the Athletics
Ticket Office at 1-855-TU-TIGER or going online to TowsonTigers.com. Season ticket packages begin at $55 per seat.
