ARDEN HILLS, Minn.—The Bethel University's nontraditional spring football practices came to an end Monday evening, as the Royals enjoyed seven voluntary sessions at Mounds View High School under the lights over the past three weeks.
 
 
Spring practice, which takes place without pads and helmets, is an opportunity to continue teaching fundamentals, implement new schemes, and grow together as teammates. 
 
The Royals, who said goodbye to 19 seniors at the end of the 2015 season, also have the opportunity to see new leadership rise up from the junior and sophomore class. Amongst those players returning are All-MIAC honorees Drew Neuville, Kevin Olson, Godfrey Mpetey, Steven Plocker, and Ryan Ross.
 
In regards to leadership, Bethel's coaching staff has added two new members as well. Mike Johnson and Larry Herm join the Royals staff, who collectively have 125 years of experience at BU. Johnson, who was formerly the defensive coordinator at Minnesota State High School champion Osseo High School last year, will coach inside linebackers and Herm, who was the long-time head coach at Foley High School, will oversee cornerbacks.
 
Bethel begins the 2016 season in Dubuque, Iowa, where they will take on the University of Dubuque at 1 p.m. on September 3. They will then open the home schedule the following week on September 10, when they host Carthage College at Royal Stadium.