Southeast Missouri Football Kicks Off Spring Practice
CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. – The Southeast Missouri State (SEMO) Redhawks football team began spring practice on Monday, marking the start of a 15-practice schedule leading up to the Rowdy Bowl III Spring Game on April 18th. The team braved frigid morning temperatures at Houck Field to begin preparations for the 2026 season.
A Seem at the Spring Schedule
The Redhawks will practice three times a week for the next five weeks. Here’s a breakdown of the schedule:
- Monday, March 16 – Practice #1
- Wednesday, March 18 – Practice #2
- Friday, March 20 – Practice #3
- Monday, March 23 – Practice #4
- Wednesday, March 25 – Practice #5
- Friday, March 27 – Practice #6
- Monday, March 30 – Practice #7
- Wednesday, April 1 – Practice #8
- Friday, April 3 – Practice #9
- Monday, April 6 – Practice #10
- Wednesday, April 8 – Practice #11
- Friday, April 10 – Practice #12
- Monday, April 13 – Practice #13
- Wednesday, April 15 – Practice #14
- Saturday, April 18 – Rowdy Bowl III Spring Game, 6 p.m., CT (Houck Field)
All practices are scheduled from 8-10 a.m. At Houck Field.
Returning Talent and Latest Additions
Head Coach Tom Matukewicz is entering his 13th year leading the Redhawks, with a roster of 88 players participating in spring drills. All-Ohio Valley Conference-Sizeable South performers Cole Ruble (running back) and Sam Reynolds (offensive lineman), both second-team honorees from last year, return to the team. SEMO has also added 51 players for the 2026 season, with 28 being mid-year signees currently participating in spring practice. Notably, 11 of these new additions are transfers from Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) programs.
The Rise of Transfer Players in College Football
The influx of FBS transfers highlights a growing trend in college football. According to NCAA data, transfer rates have been steadily increasing, with more athletes seeking opportunities at programs that better fit their athletic and academic goals. This trend is reshaping team dynamics and competitive landscapes across all divisions.
Spring Football: A Critical Evaluation Period
Spring practice is a crucial time for coaching staffs to evaluate returning players, develop young talent, and implement new schemes. It provides a valuable opportunity to assess team depth and identify areas for improvement before the start of the fall season. The Rowdy Bowl III Spring Game will offer fans a first look at the team’s progress.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Rowdy Bowl? The Rowdy Bowl is the SEMO Redhawks’ spring football game, providing a public showcase of the team’s progress.
- How many practices are scheduled this spring? There are 15 practices scheduled, culminating in the Rowdy Bowl III Spring Game.
- Who are the returning All-Conference players? Cole Ruble and Sam Reynolds are the two All-Ohio Valley Conference-Big South performers returning for the 2026 season.
Stay tuned to semoredhawks.com for updates throughout spring practice!
