Football | 4/9/2016 2:00:00 PM

STATESBORO - Running back Wesley Fields had a dream first season at Georgia Southern for the Eagle football team. The Americus, Georgia, native played in all 13 games, starting one and was named as a member of the All-Sun Belt Newcomer Team. After a big game against Bowling Green, he was named the Offensive MVP of the GoDaddy Bowl. In all, Fields rushed for 682 yards and seven touchdowns while also tallying four receptions for 105 yards and one touchdown.

This spring, Fields is improving each practice and has caught the eye of head coach Tyson Summers for the way he not only practices, but does things off the field. Following GS's eighth practice on Saturday, GSEagles.com caught up with the talented running back.

Q: What does Spring Practice mean to you? And how has it changed with the Coach Summers' Era underway? 
WF: This year, it's been getting a feel for the offense, the coaches, the tempo and just seeing how we compete against each other before the season actually starts. 

Q: What's it like transitioning from a true freshman to now a sophomore? 
WF: I'd say life is going by fast. Freshman last year and now a sophomore this year. Before you know it, I'll be a senior. It's gone by fast and I've got to cherish this moment. 

Q: What's the offensive line mean to you? 
WF: They mean a lot. Those guys are always working and pounding and always opening up a hole somehow, someway. I just feel like I can run behind them any play. Any play we've got, the hole is going to open up. I feel good about those guys this year. We're going to make something happen this year. There's going to be a lot of holes opened up this year. 

Q: You were the Offensive MVP of the GoDaddy Bowl last year, what's your biggest goal going forward into this season? 
WF: I want to keep pushing forward. This year we've got a chip on our shoulder and we want to keep being great and keep being successful. We want to keep being at the top. We want to be the best team out there. 
 

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The Eagles are scheduled to return to the field on Tuesday for their ninth practice of the spring.

Tues., April 12; 3-5:30 PM (could change base on weather forecast)
Thurs., April 14; 3-5:30 PM
Sat., April 16; Noon … SPRING GAME … Statesboro High (location subject to change to Paulson Stadium pending turf completion) 
Tues., April 19; 9:15-11:30 AM
Thurs., April 21; 3-5:30 PM
Sat., April 23; 9:15-11:30 AM
Mon., April 25; 3-5:30 PM
 

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Spring Football Practice Policies and Procedures
1) Fans must enter the Beautiful Eagle Creek Practice Fields through the gate off Tillman Road. Upon entry, fans will check in and receive a pass. All those entering must have a state- or government-issued ID and will sign in.

2) For safety reasons, fans will be allowed only in the marked areas. These areas will be painted and easily visible. 

3) There will be no photos allowed at any time once practice begins. Fans are requested to leave their cell phones and cameras in their cars, but if they must bring them in, they have to remain in their pockets. Violation of this rule may result in being asked to leave the premises.

4) Fans are asked to not report on any facets of practice via social media during or after practice. This includes specifics that occur during any periods. Specifics include, but are not limited to, coach-to-player comments, player-to-player comments, coach-to-coach comments, description of formations, drills or plays, or any "live" updates on injuries

5) Practice dates/times/locations are subject to change based on weather or other factors.

6) The GS Football Program or Athletics Department reserve the right to change these policies and procedures at any time.
 

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Tailgate Cook-Off Set for Spring Game April 16
It's time once again to showcase your skills at the Third Annual Spring Football Tailgate Cook-Off on Saturday, April 16 right before the annual Blue-White Spring Game, which starts at noon.

The top-place tailgate and grill masters will claim the title of 2016 Spring Football Tailgate Cookoff Champion, a one-of-a-kind trophy, a one-night stay at a hotel, plus two tickets to the Georgia Southern vs. Georgia Tech game in Atlanta on Oct. 15, 2016, and of course, bragging rights. 

To enter the contest, a team or individual must register online by Wednesday, April 13, 2016 and pay a $20 cash fee per entry on site on April 16. All teams or individuals are responsible for providing their own food and equipment for grilling/cooking and will be allowed only one vehicle inside the cook-off zone. Participants are encouraged to grill, cook, steam, etc. their best food for fans to enjoy. Participants need only provide a sampling of food (not a full meal).
 

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Punt, Pass and Kick Contest Added to Spring Game Activities
Newly added to the activities of the Spring Football Game this year is the Punt, Pass, and Kick Contest for kids ages 5-12. Little Eagles (boys and girls) will have an opportunity to showcase their football skills on the field before the game. The event is FREE, every child will receive a T-shirt and the winners receive their very own trophy. Participation is limited though so parents must register their child online by Thursday, April 14.
 

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2016 Season Tickets and Parking are on Sale
To purchase season tickets and/or parking for the 2016 season, please visit GSEagles.com/Tickets, call 1 (800) GSU-WINS or visit the Ticket Office Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. in the Cowart Building located at 203 Lanier Drive in Statesboro. Save 140 percent by buying season tickets. Tickets start as low as $75 per person for the season.

Season tickets can also be purchased at the upcoming Coaches Caravan events. VISA, MasterCard, AmEx, Discover and cash are accepted.