It was a day of firsts today as the University of Hawaii football team began spring practice at UH grass practice field.

Greg McMackin strode onto the field as the Warriors new head coach.

McMackin, the team's defensive coordinator last season, replaced June Jones, who departed for SMU in January after nine seasons as head coach.

Also for the first time, the Warriors also took the field as the defending Western Athletic Conference champion, the school's first outright league title.

"It was exciting. I really was excited to see the players and their attitudes," McMackin said. "Their attitudes are great when they came out and their really worked hard."

The 15-date spring practice concludes April 26 with the annual Football 'Ohana Festival at Aloha Stadium.

Most practices run from 7-9 a.m. and are open to the public.

McMackin also displayed his newly assembled staff.

McMackin brought in five new assistant coaches, including former Warrior quarterback Nick Rolovich (quarterbacks coach) and center Brian Smith (offensive line coach).

Dave Aranda (defensive line), Ikaika Malloe (defensive tackles/special teams) and Alex Gerke (offensive line/running backs) comprise the new coaching additions.

"I was also really excited and proud of the coaches," McMackin said. "I hired a bunch of great teachers. There was so much teaching going on. As a head coach, it's good to be able to go around and watch other coaches coach. They're all coaching our package and it was just really exciting to see the great coaches we have."

The Warriors return 12 starters, four on offense, five on defense and three on special teams, from last season's 12-0 regular season.