Women learn about football by gearing up for clinic

Eighteen women attended the sixth annual Ladies Football Clinic Wednesday night at the Show Me Center.

Southeast Missouri State University coaches discussed basics of football offense, defense and the kicking game.

The clinic started, after mingling and enjoying chicken wings, cheese and vegetables, with two women dressing in practice equipment including thigh and knee pads.

They learned that the brand new helmets weigh about eight pounds.

Laura McClard, Southeast alumni, was invited by a friend and came because she wanted to know all about football.

"My husband and I have season tickets with the Rams, so we watch a lot of football," she said.

Lydia Dewees said she has come for at least the last three years, adding that she feels like she's gotten a lot out of the clinics.

"You know a little bit about what's coming up with the season and what to look for when you go to the games," she said. "It's very informative."

Last year she learned the Tampa Bay Two defense system and while she can't really explain it, she said it helped her sound smart.

"I plan on going to more football games this fall, and I would like to know what's going on," said Bobbe Kohlfeld.

Kohlfeld and her friend Laurie Pleimann are going to be honorary coaches for a day on Nov. 12 when Southeast goes up against Tennessee State.

They won the honor at the football kickoff party.

Pleimann said she was eager to know more about what they are going to be doing.

Southeast coach Tim Billings said they always have a good group and every year is a little different.

Kohlfeld Distributing and Eugene's sponsored the event.