Today, August 1st, I put on my rain jacket and went out to the Greenville Football practice at the stadium. The practice started at 8:30 with defense, and at 10:30, the switch was to offense. I was the only person out there that I could see, and what I saw today reminded me how important coaching and having athletes who want to learn is.
Although it was miserable out, the coaches didn’t seem to mind (even though I know they weren’t thrilled!), and the young men seemed to be having some fun. See, when you are a little kid, your mom won’t let you play in the rain: “you’ll get sick, you’ll get muddy, you’ll get your muddy clothes in the house and get the floor dirty and wet,” etc., etc. But, if you’re playing football, all of that be damned! Ya get to play in the rain, and mom can’t yell at you!
I digress, but anyway, I got the chance to observe a little closer how the coaching staff worked, and how the team responded.
Let’s start with the staff; this group is really interested in teaching, and that is most important. I heard no yelling from any position coach, but whenever things did not go as expected, they would take the time to teach the player what they expected and needed from them. I also noticed that the players seemed attentive to what they were doing.
There are two players on the offensive line that have never played football before. They are just learning the game; you can tell. However, I see potential, not just words, potential in these two. Both are stocky; one is shorter, and the other is fairly big. They are learning; they are making some mistakes, but what I saw showed me they can both contribute, and I think it is possible both could, and I say could, start. They are being TAUGHT, and that is the important thing! Don’t give up guys, I see what you can become, just keep working! I think the offensive line could be much improved in this second year in this system.
As I watched in the monsoon, I think the backs and quarterbacks worked pretty well, and they seem to understand the offense. Coach Channell worked with them, and, with some experience coming back and adding a few new players, it’s working out pretty well; they will continue to sharpen up.
The receiving group was working on routes and, as you can imagine, catching the ball, which was a challenge today. Not so much catching the ball, but having Coach Cundiff throw a good pass was a challenge! (Sorry, Coach… in your defense, it was wet!) I think there is some talent at quarterback and receiver, and as they work together, they could be pretty good!
I talked to the coaches, and they all said they were pleased with the first defensive practice too. I was not there for that, but defense should learn quicker now that this is the second year for the defense.
All in all, the first practice is what it is supposed to be when trying to build a program: nerves, mistakes, missed assignments, and caution. This is the second year in this system, so those from last year are picking up where they left off, and for the new guys, a learning experience. There is still time for those who want to play to get out there; I highly recommend it! The coaches are football teachers and disciplinarians too. Most young men respond to that if they see a purpose. This group has purpose.
Will Greenville win more than last year? Who knows? However, they will be improved, no doubt. They are ahead of last year already; they have more people, and that is a plus. They can still use more, so if you or your son wants to play, send them to Coach Channell. He will welcome you with open arms. So will the other coaches. Numbers mean things in football.
Football season is upon us, and every High School in Darke County is preparing for the season. We have some good football here, so get out and watch your favorite school team play. You won’t regret it, and if your school is rebuilding like Greenville, go watch the progress. It may come in baby steps, but it will come……you’ll see!
That’s the way I see it……from the sidelines!
