“The University of Akron football team had a perfect day to officially start the 2010 season, going two-and-a-half hours at InfoCision Stadium-Summa Field, Wednesday afternoon. The players – in shorts, jerseys and helmets – were up to the challenge of learning a new offense and defense.”
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The University of Akron football team had a perfect day to officially start the 2010 season, going two-and-a-half hours at InfoCision Stadium-Summa Field, Wednesday afternoon.

The players – in shorts, jerseys and helmets – were up to the challenge of learning a new offense and defense.

There were several bright spots, but, as expected for a first practice, some down moments as well.

We are not going to use the changes we are making as a crutch for making mistakes, said first year head coach Rob Ianello. We are not going to make excuses period. We are going to learn it (the system) and do it.

Overall, I was very pleased with today. Not only was it a beautiful day, but it was awesome to be coaching for the first time in InfoCision Stadium and on Summa Field.

There was a lot of excitement and enthusiasm by both the coaches and players today.

There were a lot of guys flying around the field. This was a good starting point, but we know we have a long way to go. We won’t get there Friday either, but we know we can keep making improvements each day. Really, that is all you can ask for.

While the depth chart is still evolving with the new staff and new system, one question that can be answered is how the defensive line will look in the 4-3 set-up.

The following players are listed as defensive ends: Deni Odofin, Hasan Hazime, Shawn Lemon, Ben Bertsch, Shane Shead and Joe Petrides.

These players are listed as defensive tackles: Almondo Sewell, Dan Marcoux, Marquinn Davis, Antoine Jones, Nick Bridenbaugh, Derek Johnston, Joe Rash, James Harvey and Cowles Stewart.

Akron will have 12 more practices before hosting the annual Spring Game on April 17 .

Kickoff is set for Noon at InfoCision Stadium-Summa Field.

There will be a host of activities planned prior to and following the spring football game, including an Akron-Eastern Michigan baseball game at 3 p.m.

Also at the spring game, the names, and the prizes they won, will be announced for those who renewed their football season tickets prior to April 9.

Fans have until June 15 to renew season tickets and take advantage of the new payment plan, but only those who renew prior to April 9 will

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