Spearfish, S.D. – The Black Hills State football team had its first full-padded practice Monday, Aug. 20.

The Yellow Jackets welcome 32 newcomers, including 28 freshman and four transfers. The transfers are quarterback Matt Rasmussen from Pierce College in Woodland Hills, Calif., wide receiver Jacob (Jake) Frauenholtz from Carroll College in Helena, Mont., linebacker Austin Livingston from Colorado School of Mines and offensive lineman Chris Ortega Jr. from Delta College in Stockton, Calif.

The Yellow Jackets held its first practice of the fall on Aug. 16.

"Basically we are in the phase right now of getting everyone to the ball, picking up things, putting in a couple wrinkles here and there. Right now, vets are trying to pick that up," said defensive coordinator Shad Schneider. "The Young guys are just trying to fit in, find their role. Most of them are doing a pretty good job of finding their role."

On the offensive side of the ball, offensive coordinator Nick Fulton is pleased with the level of play that has carried over from spring ball.   

"I am just excited to see some of the returners stepping up and kind of taking it from where we left off in the spring, taking it and running with it and that part is exciting to see," said Fulton. "There is going to be stuff that we continue to clean up, but I feel that we didn't take a step back from spring, which is key for us to have a successful season."

Specials teams/defensive back coach Tanner Tetrault said that it has been beneficial having a lot of veteran players.  

 "The young guys are busting their tails, the outlook is extremely high. We have high expectations of ourselves on special teams and being able to make a couple big plays and get the ball back when we get a chance. It is an exciting part of the game and our guys are starting to buy into it," Tetrault said.

The season opener is scheduled for Sept. 8 against FCS opponent Idaho State in Pocatello, Idaho.