Grambling, La (August 2, 2013) – The Grambling State University Tiger Football team have officially kicked off fall practices in preparation for the 2013 football season. After reporting on Wednesday, the Tigers started the first day of practice with conditioning and then got into the grind of practice.

One of the most important things that the coaching staff is looking at is making sure that everyone is on the same page, and Head Coach Doug Williams said that they have leadership on the team to help make that happen. "Fundamentally we need to get the young guys caught up", said Head Coach Doug Williams. "Some of these young guys are going to have a chance to play and we want to make sure that they are on the same page. Some of the guys from last year are ahead of the game this year and that makes you feel good. The leadership has changed tremendously. We have some kids now that have shown some great leadership."

The last two seasons have been filled with a roller coaster of emotions. After last year, the staff wanted to make sure that the team was hungry this season. Playing at every level Coach Williams understands that they are going to get criticisms, but they have had success and they have the pieces in order to contend. "I tell people all the time that it's about what have you done for me lately. In eight seasons as head coach we won 4 championships. That's 50 percent. In baseball if you're batting 500 that's pretty good. In the 13 SWAC Championship games held in Birmingham we've won 6. Last year was not indicative of what Grambling football is all about. I think with the last two years of recruiting, and the guys that we have around here we have put ourselves in position to battle for a SWAC Championship.

The Tigers will practice again under the hot Louisiana Sun this evening at 7 p.m. Season Tickets are on sale for all four Grambling State University Home games by calling 318-274-2625.