HAMMOND – Southeastern Louisiana University football coach Mike Lucas welcomed 95 players to campus on Tuesday as the Lions officially opened fall camp.

Players began arriving at the Dugas Center for Southeastern Athletics around mid-day before holding its first official team meeting later in the afternoon. The Lions had a scheduled NCAA meeting in the evening before additional group meetings.

“It was great to get everybody back on campus,” Lucas said. “We've had so many guys that have been here for the summer who have worked really hard. Our strength and conditioning coach (Matt Powell) has done a wonderful job with the guys in a short time and everyone has that bright look in their eyes and they are ready to go.”

With the entire 2011 signing class on campus during the summer and attending voluntary workouts, Lucas feels they are ready to make a significant impact in their first season at the collegiate level.

“We had our entire freshman class on campus for the first time and I really appreciate the (Southeastern) administration for letting that happen. Those guys are a step ahead and we're going to need some of those guys to be ready to play at some of these positions.”

Southeastern will hold position meetings and issue equipment beginning Wednesday before holding its annual conditioning test in the evening.

The Lions will hit the practice field for the first time beginning Thursday at 6 a.m., working out in helmets for the first two days before putting on shells beginning Saturday. Southeastern will open two-a-days on Aug. 9.

Southeastern opens its 2011 season on Sept. 3 at intra-state rival and Conference USA member Tulane in a 2:30 p.m. contest before hosting Division I opponent Savannah State on Sept. 10. The Lions will travel to face Conference USA member Southern Miss on Sept. 17 before opening Southland Conference play on Sept. 24 at McNeese State.