Kentucky Spring Game 2024: Date, Time & Details

Lexington, KY – The University of Kentucky football programme is gearing up for a new era under Head Coach Will Stein, with spring practise slated to begin next month at the Joe Craft Football Training Facility. A key component of Stein’s approach will be a return to a spring game, scheduled for Saturday, April 18, at Kroger Field.

A Return to Fundamentals

Coach Stein emphasized the importance of live practise in player development, stating, “You know the best way to get better at football is? Play football.” He contrasted football preparation with basketball, noting the necessity of full-contact drills – “You got to put the pads on, you got to hit, you got to tackle.” This philosophy, he believes, is crucial for building a team capable of competing in the Southeastern Conference (SEC).

Did You Know? Kentucky’s 2026 football team will begin spring practise before transitioning to full-pad practices as a team.

Preparing for a Challenging Season

The upcoming spring and fall camps are expected to be rigorous, with Stein aiming to build a “tough” team prepared for the challenges of SEC play. His focus extends beyond the field, encompassing strength and conditioning programmes designed to make players “bigger, faster, stronger.” The coaching staff will also be working to implement new offensive, defensive and special teams strategies.

Expert Insight: Coach Stein’s emphasis on fundamental, full-contact practise suggests a deliberate effort to establish a physical identity for the programme, a common strategy for teams seeking to compete consistently in a demanding conference like the SEC.

Fans will have an early opportunity to see Stein’s vision take shape in April, despite ongoing renovations at Kroger Field. The team’s 2025 schedule includes matchups against Youngstown State, Alabama, Texas A&M, South Alabama, South Carolina, LSU, Oklahoma, Vanderbilt, Tennessee, Florida, Missouri, and Louisville.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will Will Stein’s first spring practise begin?

Spring practise will begin next month at the Joe Craft Football Training Facility.

When is the spring game scheduled?

The spring game is scheduled for Saturday, April 18, at Kroger Field.

What did Coach Stein say about the importance of practise?

Coach Stein stated, “You know the best way to get better at football is? Play football,” and emphasized the need for full-contact drills to build toughness.

What impact will Coach Stein’s emphasis on physicality have on the team’s performance in the upcoming season?