For the first time this spring, the Fort Dale Academy Eagles donned pads Monday after taking off Friday for the prom.

&#8220We're not going in full pads because I'm not taking any chances,” Fort Dale head coach James &#8220Speed” Sampley said.

One of those chances Sampley is not going to take is the chance to re-injure running back/linebacker Barry Boan.

Boan, who suffered an arm injury in the season-finale last year at Bessemer Academy, will not dress in pads until the first game of the 2007 season.

Now that the Eagles are in helmets and shoulder pads, Sampley is hoping the Eagles can get down their timing while going full speed.

&#8220We're working on our passing game and running the option,” Sampley said of the offense. &#8220And we're still trying to work on our no-huddle offense.”

On the defensive side of the ball, Sampley said the Eagles' mission is simple.

&#8220We've got to do what we're supposed to do,” Sampley said. &#8220We're working on covering gaps, getting schemes down.”

The Eagles will continue practice in pads this week before concluding practice next week.