For local football coaches David Wagner and Shane Davis, the spring practice window was not a time to waste.
Wagner had to get to work immediately at Winder-Barrow High School as he begins to install new offensive and defensive schemes and to try and build a winning tradition for a program which has struggled in the past couple of decades. Special teams work will be covered in the fall.
For Davis, it was all about grooming new players to get ready to step into the varsity spotlight this fall, many of whom have never played a down of varsity football.
With the countdown clock now ticking, Davis and Wagner both know there’s not a day — or second — to waste.
“One of the main things for us this year was to come out of spring practice with a depth chart,” Davis said. “It was a little different for us goal-wise from the last two or three years. We need to see some kids in live action and see some play and see what they can do.”
Not everything was completely accomplished in spring practice but Davis noted rebuilding a roster that was hit by graduation takes time.
“There’s only so much you can do during spring,” Davis said. “These new guys will have to play some games.”
The AHS coach noted some players who will be in the starting lineup this fall will have never played in a varsity contest before.
The Wildcats will now move to weight training in June and will also host a camp June 15-17 with other schools taking part.
At WBHS, Wagner said his Bulldoggs probably covered about 95 percent of what he wanted them to look at in terms of an offensive introduction. Defensively, the goal was to install the base look and focus and running and hitting.
The team had eight practice sessions and a controlled spring scrimmage.
“We felt like it went well,” Wagner said.
WBHS players will now begin summer weight training. The weight room will open at 8 a.m. Mondays as players will have two options each day to lift. Players are expected to work out three times per week.
“We want to have our best players on the field,” Wagner said “That means some could go both ways. You have to be in shape to do that.”
The Bulldoggs will also take part in Apalachee’s team camp in June. Wagner said the camp is local and will provide his players quality instruction and plenty of 7-on-7 work during the three-day session.
