Defensive linemen practice their pass rush during Friday's first day of preseason practice for the Gaffney Indians, who returned to the practice field this morning. With hands waving, Gaffney assistant coach Tom Owens shouts instructions to a wide receiver. Nearer to midfield, defensive coordinator Dan Jones points a player to a position on the field, while offensive line coach Donnie Littlejohn huddles with his group near the fence.

It's the first day of preseason practice for the Gaffney High Indians and coaches and players seemed to relish being back on the practice field.

The Indians used a majority of the 2-hour session for position drills before wrapping up practice with a few offensive plays.

The Indians returned to the practice field this morning for an 8 a.m. practice session followed by another practice at 11 a.m.

The Indians will follow that same routine on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday before a scrimmage at Greer at 6 p.m. on Friday.

High School league rules prohibit full contact until Wednesday when players put on their pads.

For most coaches, preseason practice doesn't start until the pads go on.

"If the (players) are worth their salt, they will want to hit," Gaffney coach Phil Strickland said.