Pirates hit century mark

Whitworth will open its 100th football season today when 84 players are expected for the team’s first practice.

Returning players will practice at 1 p.m., followed by freshmen and transfers at 2:30. The first full practice is set for 2:15 p.m. Saturday.

The Pirates return 16 starters – 10 on defense – from a 5-3 team. Their preseason All-Americans are senior quarterback Joel Clark, senior tight end Michael Allen and junior defensive back Ryan Marshall.

Whitworth is ranked second in the Northwest Conference preseason coaches’ poll.