MARYSVILLE New M-P coach Brandon Carson was all business as he put his players to work on their first day of football practice Aug. 15.
Carson, a familiar face to his players as the Tomahawks defensive coordinator last season, kept introductions of his new coaching staff brief. When you talk to us as coaches, its Mister or Coach, he added.
The coaches kept athletes on their toes during practice, changing up exercises and drills often. One of Carsons first moves in practice was to divide players up into punters, holders, kickers and returners, telling them, Special teams are going to be the key.
Team business was sprinkled throughout practice and, with the exception of calisthenics, players went through most of the drills in small groups.
While practice observers were already abuzz about the Tomahawks potential starters, Carson emphasized that all 80-some players are a part of the game, whether or not they are on the field. In one drill, the team divided into groups of about 11 or 12 and rotated through defensive line-ups while the sideline groups tried to call the offensive play, training to aid the defense.
Even as temperatures soared into the 80s, the team took frequent breaks during their three-hour practice to stay hydrated, and few players were forced to the sideline as a precaution.
Its the kind of focus and determination that could carry the Tomahawks to success this season.