UWEC football team holds first practice - WQOW TV: Eau Claire, WI NEWS18 News, Weather, and Sports

Eau Claire (WQOW) -- It certainly felt like football weather for the Blugolds first practice of the year.

Eau Claire finished fourth in the WIAC last year, but the team has its sights set much higher this season. The Blugolds returns 32 letter winners, including five starters on defense and five on offense.

"We have a lot of experience at every position. Obviously we have a lot of young guys as well, but the older guys are just going to help them out and help them improve every day. We're just looking forward to getting to that first game," says senior quarterback Austin Neu.

Head coach Todd Glaser says that the team's experience, mixed in with a strong recruiting class, has Eau Claire optimistic as camp opens.

"It's always nice to have veteran guys because they kind of know what we're all about and what we're trying to do offensively, defensively and in special teams and help the younger guys out. So we're excited about that," adds Glaser. "We've got a good recruiting class coming in, our younger guys have been working hard, our returning guys have been working hard, so there's going to be a lot of competition at the different positions."

UW-Eau Claire opens up the season against St. Thomas on September 1st. Kickoff is set for 3:10 p.m. at Carson Park.