​The UW-Eau Claire Blugolds came out firing last season. And went undefeated with impressive performances in their three non-conference games.The Blugolds were rolling with a perfect 3-0 record heading into conference play.But the rugged WIAC football schedule was challenging and UW-Eau Claire struggled in league play while finishing 3-7 overall.With a strong group of experienced players back, the Blugolds bring an optimistic outlook into a new season where they hope to reverse their fortunes.UW-Eau Claire is scheduled to open its season against Alma College on Saturday afternoon at Carson Park.“We had a great preseason camp and our kids have been locked in to what they need to get done,” said Rob Erickson, who enters his fourth season as UWEC head coach. “We’ve made some progress and we are looking forward to the start of the season against Alma.“Our guys are bigger and stronger now. Being a year older, wiser, more experienced and more comfortable with everything makes a big difference.”UW-Eau Claire welcomes back starting quarterback Ayden Helder, who had a solid sophomore season while passing for more than 2,000 yards.“It’s good to have Ayden back with a year of starting experience now,” Erickson said. “Ayden is doing a great job and we are thrilled with what he can do. He brings leadership and the guys believe in him.”Helder, a junior, started all 10 games last season for a team that averaged 26 points and 338 yards per game.“We return a lot of players with experience,” he said. “We have some older guys who are ready to step up and contribute.”The Blugolds had their biggest issues defensively in 2025. They allowed 35 points and 428 yards per game.UW-Eau Claire is hoping for big improvements on that side of the ball.“We have some good experience returning on defense,” Erickson said. “That continuity, and what is expected of our players, our defense has played really well during this fall camp. I am really excited to see what they can do.”Senior defensive lineman Aidan Drost is a returning starter for the Blugolds.He recorded 20 total tackles, including three for losses, in 2025.“We are really focused on the details, and we are bringing back a lot of key returners that I feel like will help us,” Drost said. “We return all eight of the two-deep on the defensive line. We have a lot of good experience now.“We have to force teams into third and long so we can really get our pass rush going. We are going to give it our all and keep working hard.”Erickson has brought in a number of new coaches, including Phil Ockinga as the team’s new offensive coordinator.“Coach Ockinga comes with a ton of experience as a play caller,” Erickson said. “He was a college head coach for multiple years.”The Blugolds also have hired three new assistant coaches on the defensive side of the ball.“Our new coaches are doing a great job,” Erickson said. “And really building connections with our kids.”Erickson pre