Aug. 7, 2003

The Kentucky football team held its first preseason practice Thursday as the Wildcats, split into two groups, practiced for approximately four and one-half hours.

The practice began at the Nutter Training Facility, then moved to the Nutter Field House when lightning threatened the outdoor fields. Group I consisted primarily of second- and fourth-team players while Group II was comprised of first- and third-team players. Each group practiced for approximately two and one-half hours, including a 30-minute overlap period for special teams work.

Coach Rich Brooks liked with what he saw.

“Overall, I thought their conditioning was good,” Brooks said. “I was pleased with the retention rate (from spring practice) by the veterans. I like practicing in two groups because it gives each player more repetitions.”

Asked about new players that caught his eye, Brooks said, “There were some new players who made a good impression, but one day in shorts is way too early to single out anyone.”

Squad limits are set at a maximum of 105 players until school begins on Aug. 27. Brooks announced that junior college tight end Kurt Jackson will not report to the team until the start of school because of an injury.

The team has Media Day on Friday morning, then will practice in the same format Friday afternoon.