Head coach Dean Paul and his staff welcomed 143 players to the first day of practice for the 2018 Ohio Northern football team on Tuesday afternoon at Dial-Roberson Stadium.

The Polar Bears return 14 starters and 36 lettermen from last year's squad that posted a 7-3 overall record and were second in the Ohio Athletic Conference with a 6-3 record.

ONU will open its season on Sept. 1 at 6 p.m. against Adrian (Mich.) under the lights at Dial-Roberson.