Aug. 5, 2015
The Commodores officially open preseason camp Thursday afternoon, exactly four weeks prior to hosting Western Kentucky in the season opener.
Head Coach Derek Mason is expected to welcome 96 student-athletes to campus today in preparation for the team’s first practice at the John Rich Practice Facility.
The Commodores feature nearly 50 returning letterwinners from a year ago, including 20 position starters and three key specialists.
The Commodores’ opener vs. Western Kentucky is scheduled Thursday, Sept. 3 in Vanderbilt Stadium. Kickoff is 7 p.m., CT. Individual and season tickets are available.
Mason is eager to see the Commodores back in uniform, and evaluate their development since the Black and Gold Spring Game in late March.
“I’m definitely excited to get started,” Mason said. “The team is coming off a very successful summer conditioning effort. Our guys worked hard for Coach (James) Dobson and his staff, and definitely come into camp bigger, stronger and more prepared.
“I expect a lot of energy from the entire squad and a very competitive camp. Every member of our team will be competing for starting jobs and important roles,” Mason added.
With staging limited gear practices through Sunday, the Commodores are expected to move into full pads on Monday, then stage their first two-a-day session on Tuesday.
Media Day press conference scheduled today
Mason, new offensive coordinator Andy Ludwig and several student-athletes will talk about camp and the upcoming season with media outlets today at the team’s annual Media Day activity.
Steven Scheu (Sr., TE), Ralph Webb (So., RB), Spencer Pulley (Sr., center), Nigel Bowden (So., LB), Andrew Williamson (Sr., safety) and Darrius Sims (Jr., WR/KR) are expected to participate in the press conference.
Mason’s remarks will be aired live on vucommodores and SEC Network+.
Picture Day also on tap
Barring inclement weather, the Commodores also will stage team and position group photos today immediately after the press conference. Mason and the staff will conclude activities today with a team meeting in McGugin Center.