SIOUX FALLS, S.D. -- Four practices into 2019 spring camp, the Augustana Football team is setting the tone for the spring season. The Vikings are showing a high level of effort and intensity with a majority of student-athletes competing for a starting role this fall.

Augustana, who will practice three times per week and alternate between helmets, shells and full pads, is allowed 15 practices over the course of 36 days per the NCAA rules. For a full Viking schedule of spring ball, click here. 

The Vikings focus this spring is centered on each individual and position group improving. Now with one week of spring ball in the books, Augustana head coach Jerry Olszewski is pleased with the progress.

"It an exciting time right now. Everyone is competing and working hard. Our coaches continue to build relationships, push guys forward, be the rock, and set positive examples for future Vikings. Overall, we're just fired up and can't wait to get better each and every day."

Coach OJ, who enters his seventh season with Augustana this fall, brings a deep and talented roster to the field this spring.

"I think we recruited a really good class last year at every position. Now the kids that redshirted last season get the chance to go out and play with the big boys and play some college football."

In addition to recruits, Augustana returns a key of position players on both sides of the ball. Starting on offense, the Vikings bring back two first-team All-NSIC selections in center Jake Lacina and wide receiver Nickel Meyers. Running back Rudy Sinflorant, who finished 5th in the league in rushing with just over 900 yards, returns as a second-team selection. QB Kyle Saddler led the NSIC in passing yards and touchdown last season while earning All-NSIC honorable mention. 

Moving to defense, the Vikings bring back three All-NSIC honorable mention picks. Defensive back Michael Kloza will continue to establish himself as one of the best ball thieves in the league, Lineback Kyle Theis will build on his breakout campaign, and defensive end Logan Swanson will work to shut down the oppositions rushing attack.

Augustana's next practice is set for Tuesday, April 9 from 4-6 p.m. at kirkeby-Over stadium.