Gene Murphy, athletic director and head football coach at Hinds Community College, has announced the Eagles 2009 football preseason practice itinerary. Murphy returns for his second stint as the Eagles head man in 2009, after going 133-41-5 in 17 seasons from 1987-2003.

Murphy is not the only coaching newcomer, as he brings along an almost entirely new coaching staff. Larry Williams (defensive coordinator) is the lone holdover from the previous coaching staff, which was led by former Hinds head coach J. Mike Smith.

The new Hinds coaches include Dwayne Curry (defensive line), Ben Dew (offensive line), Reginald Dillon (running backs), Thad Jackson (strength and conditioning), Kelly Murphy (quarterbacks and wide receivers) and Dwike Wilson (defensive backs).

The Eagles reported to campus Tuesday and have introductory and position meetings before taking the practice field today.

Hinds will start off their nine-game slate with a road matchup against Northeast Community College in Booneville. The Eagles defeated Northeast in Raymond in 2008, 21-13, but the win was forfeited due to an ineligible Hinds player.

Please note that practice times and dates may change due to the brutal August heat. The public is invited to attend these sessions, which will be held on the Hinds practice field or at Joe Renfroe Stadium in Raymond, home to all Hinds football games.