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Coaches Preview: Getting Better Every Day!

“The 2009 Season will be a Success!” stated 4^th year Head Coach John Gamble. Unlike the tumultuous year of 08, that had many sources of “outside” interference, the ’09 Tribe is focused on a plan and is coming together to work it. “This group of players has exceptional dedication to the program and to winning” explained Gamble, “42 out of 55 players made 24 or more workouts during the summer and were rewarded by having their names put on the back of their jersey…that is extraordinary. When the guys show up during the summer like that it gives us the opportunity to have more time to have effective practice. A more effective practice means more repetitions, more plays for the guys which in turn makes for a well prepared offense and defense.”

Irwin is blessed to have 17 senior players on their roster. “Many of these guys will play a huge part in making this season a success” Gamble said “ Senior leadership is key, the older players are stepping up and taking responsibility… the younger players are following.”

Clint Paulk, a three-year starter, will lead the Indians on offense. “Clint is the Man” Gamble remarked “He’s really looking good. His passing accuracy has improved as well as his foot speed. He definitely has the potential to be one of the better quarterbacks in the Region 2.” Paulk will receive the ball each snap from Senior Center Ben Wright. “Ben is a great kid to have on your team said Gamble, he is always where he is supposed to be, on time with a great attitude. On the field he gives 100% and shows great leadership on the O’line… his grades are not too shabby either.” Several players this year have changes positions to better serve the Tribe. Kenny Richardson is one of those guys. “We moved Kenny to fullback over the summer and have been very pleased with his performance. Kenny is a very exciting player to watch no matter if he is on offense or defense. His speed toughness and passion promise a good season from him” Terrance Woodard 6’3 307 lb offensive and defensive lineman is a standout merely because of his size.” Terrance is a bull, Gamble added, He as an opportunity to be a star if he plays hard and smart. Defensively the Indians are led by Seniors Bradley Tucker, Jeremy Martin and Jake Atkinson . “These guys have been around and starting for several years now…. There is nothing like experience… I look for big things out of them”

Due to “cut backs” the Indians lost a coaching slot this year. Coach Gamble and the other coaches had to regroup and each take on new responsibilities. The changes brought Coach Greg Revis and Coach Chris Young to the offensive side of the ball and left Coach Braun to coordinate the defense. “I am very proud of our coaches and the way they have undertaken new responsibilities. Sometime change is difficult especially when your working with people as passionate as our guys are about winning. Each coach met his new responsibility head on and we seem to be running very smoothly” added Gamble.

“One of the most difficult jobs as coaches doing interviews such as this is that you always forget someone, joked Gamble, There are a lot of other players like Fred Marshall, Eric Lawton, Kevious Robinson, Tony Woodard, Barnard Baker, Justin Roberts, Clae Wynn and several more that are going make big plays for us this year”

When asked, “How does the team at this point in the season look compared to last year at this point?” Gamble answered “ we are way ahead of where we were last year and we’re getting better every day”.