TUSCALOOSA — For the first time this spring, the Alabama football team practiced in full pads during a two-hour session Wednesday on the Thomas-Drew Practice Fields.

Coach Nick Saban said he’s pleased with what he has seen so far of the two-time defending champion Tide.

“After watching everyone in shorts and helmets they look a little quicker, a little faster,” Saban said. “Getting the pads on is something that the players have to get used to. I thought the effort was good and their attention to detail has been good. We are really trying to emphasize how important it is for the individuals on the team to do the right things to make the team what it is.”

The Tide practiced after hearing the news of Mal Moore’s decision to step down as athletics director because of health issues. Moore will become a special assistant to UA President Judy Bonner.

Saban said he has tremendous respect for Moore.

“First, for giving us the opportunity to come to the University of Alabama and the great job he did on selling us on this University and what could be done here,” Saban said.

“Then, all of the support he has given to our program. He certainly deserves a tremendous amount of credit for the success we have had because of the way he sets the table and serves us so well.

“Most things that you would see, he has had some hand in making all of the athletic facilities what they are, first class in so many ways. More than that, he is a class gentleman, probably as fine as you are ever going to meet. He has been a great friend and his support has certainly been appreciated ... He has been a part of a lot of championships and a lot of championship teams in this department as a coach was well as an athletic director.”

Alabama will practice Friday before taking a week off for spring break. Alabama will then resume spring practice with the fifth of 15 spring practices on April 1.

Alabama’s 2013 A-Day Game is scheduled April 20 at 2 p.m. at Bryant-Denny Stadium. The A-Day Game is once again free to the public and will be televised live on ESPN2.