Sophomore kicker William Downs attempts a field goal on Sept. 17 during practice. The varsity football team is preparing for a three-game home stretch. “There is a lot that can happen out there in our region as last year proved, so the only thing we can do is focus on taking care of our business,” linebackers coach and Director of Football Operations Chris Hulse said.
By ANDREW CALDWELL – Staff Writer
The varsity football team is aiming to turn their season around during a three-game home stretch.
The Clarke Central High School varsity football team is approaching a three-game home stretch against Apalachee High School, Flowery Branch High School and Gainesville High School. Coaches say preparation is crucial to conquering those games.
“The week leading up to is practicing the game plan and preparing to execute our assignments,” linebackers coach and Director of Football Operations Chris Hulse said. “There is no team you can take for granted, unless you want to get handed an upset loss.”
Sophomore receiver Jacorie Jordan says he is looking forward to the difficulty of this stretch, especially against region foe GHS.
“I’m (excited) about Gainesville. They’re one of the best teams,” Jordan said. “I want to see how I do against a high level of competition.”
Despite defeating Cedar Shoals High School in a 29-0 shutout, according to junior linebacker Anthony Dunn, the team cannot rest. Through conditioning every day, watching game film and studying their opponents, players are confident in how they will perform.
“I believe (Gainesville) will be the toughest, only if (we) allow them to intimidate us,” Dunn said. “Once we start believing and they give up, it’s easy.”
In spite of three losses on the season, coaches say they are looking to encourage players to leave the past behind them.
“One game never determines a season,” Hulse said. “It can be dangerous to any team’s culture to assume otherwise. In any competitive arena, complacency is poison.”
According to CCHS athletic director Dr. Jon Ward, freshmen will play a huge role in the next three games, the rest of the season and future seasons.
“I think they’ve benefited the program,” Ward said. “All the freshmen (who) have been part of the practices, the camps (and) the summer workouts add more depth to the program.”
Jordan feels it is not a matter of physical ability that wins games, it is the mental aspect of football that beats the other teams.
“If something bad happens, don’t put your head down,” Jordan said. “We just have to keep fighting. And don’t give up, and just keep enthusiasm and stay turnt.”
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