The UNA football team began training camp Aug. 11, hoping to address some of last season’s problems.

Players reported to camp in hopes of improving upon last year’s 9-4 regular season record.

While working hard in training camp, the players are aspiring to showcase their talents in the NCAA Division II playoffs. The Lions were knocked out of the playoffs during the second round against Delta State last year.

“We’re looking very good this year, and we’re putting in hard work every day,” Head Coach Terry Bowden said. “No major injuries have occurred, but a few guys have been banged up, nothing serious. I hope that we can go further with no injuries during camp and this upcoming season.”

Bowden said as long as the offensive line steps up to do their part and stay healthy, with a little luck the team will be in great shape for a chance of winning.

Lee Chapple, a returning quarterback, who started 13 games in 2010, was mentioned to be one of the team’s leaders.

Chapple finished last season with 253 of 411 passes for 3,051 yards and 12 touchdowns. He was also named Gulf South Conference Player of the Week for the week of Sept. 13 last year.

Along with Chapple, Bryan Thomas, a returning letterman, was also mentioned as a team leader who played in 11 games andstarted eight for the Lions in 2010.

Thomas was named Gulf South Conference Defensive Player of the Week for Oct. 4 of last year, finishing the season with 41 tackles, making 22 solo stops and 19 assists.

“Returning lettermen are different from last year and they continue to show leadership skills,” Bowden said. “Progress with the team is still being evaluated. There will be no off time as we get closer to the open of a new season.”

On the offensive end a big question mark heading into camp was who is going to step up at the receiver spot.

Top returning player Chris Simpson is still ranked sixth on the team in receiving categories last year.

“We have a lot of talent on the outside, but players still need to step up to get a spot,” Bowden said.

The first game of the season is scheduled kick off Sept. 1 against Central Oklahoma at Braly Stadium. This game will be available on GSC TV live for fans who cannot attend the game.