Lindsey Henley

Published: March 25, 2008

The practice jerseys are out and the field is set.

Wednesday marks the start of a new season for the Hokies, and after knee replacement surgery Head Coach Frank Beamer is starting to feel like a new man.

“It’s a slow process.  I’ve got some challenges out there during spring practice to stay out of the way,” Beamer said.

Beamer’s left knee won’t be the only new thing on the field this spring.

“It’s been a long time as we’ve had as many questions marks going into spring practice,” he said.

There are questions on offense, defense, and special teams.

Beamer says he hopes the next few weeks of practice will help clear those up.

“Every practice is important, and every day you’re establishing how much playing time you’re going to get next fall,” he said.

There are a few accommodations Beamer will need when practice gets underway, but he says he doesn’t want to be a distraction.

“We just need our players practicing hard and improving.  That’s what’s going to happen,” he said.

If so, he says the team will hit their stride this fall.

“If you put your best effort forward, the wins and the losses will take care of themselves.”

As for Beamer, he still has until September 6th to get his new and improved knee ready for its Lane Stadium debut.