The York University Lions men's football team opened training camp yesterday at the York practice field. The team reported for testing and then hit the grass for two days of intensive workouts in preparation for the annual intra-squad games scheduled for Aug. 31 at 5pm.
The Lions open the 2004 Ontario University Athletics (OUA) season on Labour Day in Guelph against the Gryphons. The home opener is Saturday, Sept. 11, when the Lions will take on the Ottawa Gee Gees at York Stadium.
This season York returns 17 players with starting experience, nine on offence and eight on defence, from last year’s team. York finished seventh during the 2003 OUA regular season posting a 3-5 record and advancing to the league quarterfinals.
York’s offence features an interesting blend of novice and veteran players. Second-year pivot Bart Zemanek will enter 2004 as the No. 1 quarterback on the Lions' depth chart. Zemanek, who started four games as a freshman last season, completed 27 passes for 276 yards and two touchdowns. Returnees Chris Foster and Dave Munns, as well as several rookies, will battle for the backup position.
For a full rundown on the new season, see the Sport and Recreation news release.