New University of Kentucky head football coach Mark Stoops is excited, and it appears Big Blue Nation is as well.

Stoops posted on his Twitter account Thursday afternoon that more than 23,000 tickets had been reserved for Kentucky's annual Blue-White spring football game on the first day the free tickets were made available.

"More than 23,000 tickets reserved so far for the spring game -- way to go #BBN! #WeAreUK #StoopsTroops," Stoops posted.

UK announced Tuesday that the spring game would be a reserved seating, ticketed event for the first time this year.

A special availability for season ticket holders started Thursday at 9 a.m., with each allowed to obtain up to eight reserved seats. UK students also could get their free tickets (two per student ID) starting Thursday.

The general public can get their tickets starting March 11 at 9 a.m. via TicketMaster by calling 1-800-745-3000 or by going on www.TicketMaster.com. Tickets are free, but there is a small service charge per ticket.

Tickets still available on game day may be picked up free of charge at Commonwealth Stadium.

The game is set for April 13 at 7 p.m.