(Atlantic) After delaying practice for three days, the 2020 Atlantic football team began practice on Thursday morning. Atlantic Head Football Coach Mike McDermott says safety is a crucial issue during preseason workouts, and that includes the player’s level of conditioning.
Coach McDermott welcomed around 70 player’s freshmen through seniors to practice this week. The team lifts and conditions in the morning and conducts football activities in the evening.
That Trojans play a seven-game schedule, with the opener on the road at Underwood. McDermott says Underwood looks impressive on film. “They were a playoff team last year, and they’ve had a lot of success in other sports,” said McDermott. “Underwood is going to be a real test for us, and we’re excited about going on the road on the 28th and seeing where we’re at. But, we know we have a lot to get done before that first game.”
The Trojans play five games on the road and two contests at home, but the lack of home games doesn’t bother Coach McDermott. “That’s alright with us, we’re just happy to play, and that’s our message to our players.”
One big positive for the Trojans is the nine returning starters on defense. “That’s a positive, those guys look good in the weight room, and they’re going to have to carry us while we settle things out offensively,” said McDermott.
The Trojans must fill three offensive line positions, one running back spot, and two receivers. “We want to become more balanced offensively and get a lot more players involved in running and catching the football,” stated Coach McDermott.
Coach McDermott’s staff includes longtime Defensive Coordinator Lee Saathoff, Offensive Line Coach, and Head J.V. Coach Joe Brummer. Oran Perkins will Coach the J.V. and Freshmen, and Head Girl’s Track Coach Matt Mullenix, new to the staff, will help with the freshman, and speed and conditioning.
