UCA football coach Steve Campbell unveiled his first-ever recruiting class for the Bears today in front of an audience full of media members, coaches and fans packed inside the board room of Wingo Hall. 

National Signing Day saw 26 players sign their letters of intent to play at the next level for the Bears, including five from Arkansas.

Tight end Josiah Wymer from Springdale, defensive end Dalvin Simmons from Little Rock Central, offensive lineman Curtis Parker from North Little Rock, offensive lineman Will Jones from Parkers Chapel and athlete Toney Hawkins from Morrilton will all be continuing their careers in the Natural State.

By NCAA rule, coaches cannot talk about specific recruits until their letters are received by the university via fax.

After introducing the newcomers, Campbell also introduced his coaching staff to the fans for the first time since being hired in December of 2013.

Before closing, Campbell said that they will begin recruiting for the 2015 class tomorrow and that recruiting is an ongoing process. “We are always searching for new talent, whether it’s by email or YouTube video or in person, we’re always interested in finding guys who might fit our program,” he said. “It’s a 24/7 thing and you always have to be building relationships with people.”

The Bears will conclude spring practice with the annual spring football game on April 12. They open the 2014 season Aug. 30 against Texas Tech in Lubbock, TX.