Nebraska worked out in full pads for the first time this week during Saturday morning's 2½-hour practice at Memorial Stadium.

The second half of the practice included some light scrimmage work without tackling. Coach Bo Pelini was pleased with the effort and spirit the Huskers showed and said it has been a productive first week of spring ball.

“It went well. I thought the tempo was good. It was physical and we made a lot of strides. The first three days, especially defensively, they have a lot to learn, but the effort was good. I thought it was a good start to the spring. They have learned a lot. You are seeing steady improvement all across the board. It has been good to see.”

Pelini also commented on the importance of developing leadership during spring ball.

“We are watching for that. We are looking to see who is going to step out and be the leaders on this team. You are not going to have a great team unless you have some great leadership, especially from the older kids who have been around. You are starting to see it. I think Joe Ganz does a nice job of taking control on the offensive side of the ball, but it has to come from more than just the quarterback. It has got to come in every group. It is there. It is steadily showing itself.”

The Huskers welcomed approximately 500 youth who took part in the Husker Youth Experience following the workout, with kids ranging from 8 years old to 8th grade, running through football drills with Husker players and coaches.

The kids were taught basic football fundamentals, including blocking, tackling, ball skills and running skills. The Youth Experience began with the clinic participants taking part in their own version of the Memorial Stadium Tunnel Walk.

Pelini addressed the kids after the conclusion of the drills and stressed the importance of taking care of schoolwork before they focus on athletics.

Pelini told the assembled media the Husker Youth Experience was not only enjoyable for those in attendance, but also for those in the football program.

“It's a great event. The turnout's awesome, the kids were enthusiastic and having fun. Our players and coaches had a lot of fun working with the kids and it is important for us to take the time to build relationships through these types of events.”

Nebraska opens the second week of spring practice Monday afternoon. The Huskers will also practice Wednesday, Friday and next Saturday.