CLAREMONT, Calif. – Preparations for the 2013 football season have begun for the Claremont-Mudd-Scripps football team with the start of spring football. Head coach Kyle Sweeney returns a core group of players in addition to the full coaching staff from 2012.

Defensively, the Stags look to build on the experience gained last year with nine starters back for 2013. The defensive backfield returns the most depth, with several players back from a unit that led the SCIAC in pass defense. Anchored by senior defensive back Joey Liekweg, and a strong supporting cast, the back row is expected to build upon its success from 2012. On the front seven, junior linebacker Max Winsberg and junior defensive lineman Brett Collins are expected to help with the transition throughout spring. Collins is one of two Harvey Mudd College student-athletes on the team.

On the offensive side of the ball, offensive coordinator Patrick Rotchford will rely on the senior leadership of wide receiver Kris Otterholt who led the team with 60 receptions. Also expected to play a key role on offense at the skill positions are wide receiver Greg Wilson and running back Freddie Levine. In the trenches offensive lineman Peter Clancy leads a young group that helped the Stag rushing attack average 155 yards per game.

 "Having 19 returning starters together in spring practice will make for a very productive spring," said Coach Sweeney. "I am confident our group will make big strides in preparation for the upcoming season."

In addition to a busy spring practice schedule on the field, several CMS football players spent a recent Saturday volunteering with Habitat for Humanity Riverside. To read the full article, please click here.

The Stags open up the 2013 season on Saturday, Sept. 7 at Lewis and Clark (Ore.).