‘New Day’ Tomcats Gear Up
For Fast Coming District Games
Three games down, and three losses recorded in what was, at least on paper, a similar pre-district for Tom Bean Football. But for those who went to the games and saw their Cats play, opinions might be somewhat different. How do the fans react after they’ve seen the ‘New Day’ Tom Bean? Better yet, what do the players and coaches think about the tough district schedule to come? Hopefully, all of those questions, and more, will be answered in my pre-district report.
Similar Scores, Different Defense, and Loads of Injuries
The season started with a visit from an always tough Lindsay Knights squad. And although the defense was quite sturdy, not surrendering one single point, the offense just couldn’t find out how to score and the game finished 7-0 Lindsay. The only touch-down came from an interception in the early minutes of the game. So, it was a start none the less and shone some light as to how the Tomcat defense would fair as the season went on. And they would definitely have to be on their toes against high flying Lone Oak. Despite the end score line reading 41-0 in favor of the buffalos, Tom Bean’s defensive power was still able to show its muscle by not giving in to anything easy. It took some fantastic offensive efforts to break through the Cats’ defensive wall. However, still no offense to show of. Unfortunately, it didn’t help that starting quarterback Nathan Parish suffered a knee injury which caused him to miss the entire second half. This game also saw injuries dealt to Chris Nash, Matt Van Sickle, and James Sanchez who would all miss the next game against Clarksville. A long road trip to that town (located to the East, yes east, of Paris) saw a tattered and torn Tomcats give a valiant effort in a 17-0 loss. Once again the defense shone brightly and the offense just couldn’t find a way to score.
What’s the Buzz Inside the Locker Room?
The question now is are our football players ready to tackle a tough district schedule. How will our offense look? What are they working on and trying to make perfect? “Execution of plays on offense, more blocking schemes, and working on making our cuts on passing plays, in particular,” was the response from Defensive End/ Offensive Lineman Jeff Randolph. No one can argue with the fact that the Cats’ offense has not been stellar in these first three games. Of course, it tends to be a bit more difficult when your quarterback, basically your offensive leader, is struck with an injury not even a game and a half into the season. So, who better to tell you about the state of the offense than QB Nathan Parish.
“After the bye week and having the two weeks we get to practices, we will be ready,” said Parish. It does seem like a perfect time to have those two precious weeks. What with all the injuries to offensive players like Nathan, it’s like having the fog lift from in front of you 100 yards from shore for the Tom Cats. It’s just in time to prepare for potentially rough seas ahead.
Defenses Win Championships
So, we know that the Cats have struggled offensively. However, it’s a totally different story on the other side of the ball. The defense has been nothing short of magical so far this season. What should we name as the reason for the Cats’ defensive success?
“Well, the team really works together well on defense. The key players that we have always give their best. All together, it really works out to be a strong team effort,” said Junior Wide Receiver and Defensive Back Mitch Masias.
The defense is certainly playing play-off quality football, not even allowing a single point to be scored against them in the 7-0 loss to Lindsay, the only touchdown coming from an interception.
No Legs to Stand On
Another issue that has hindered the Cats during pre-district play has been the injury list. Players such as Nathan Parish, Chris Nash, Zach Behrend, James Sanchez, and others have been unfortunate enough to have their playing limited due to injuries. This has made the Tom Cats’ time even more difficult.
Light at the End of the Tunnel
But, that’s all behind them now after they’ve had a week to recuperate and re-energize.
“We just got back about 4 or 5 players from the injury list during our time to rest, so now we are more prepared for district. I personally can’t wait for it to start,” said Drew Hodge.
Coach Sanders shares this belief. In his statement for this report, Coach emphasized the fact that getting key players back from injury is a huge boost.
“I’m not as pleased as I’d like to be, because I really feel we should’ve had a win or two out of our pre-district games. But, I think we’re on the right track. The defense is looking good. As for the offense, once we get everyone healthy and well, it will be a lot better. We need to work on blocking schemes. We’re still a tad bit confused on who to block. If everybody will do the right thing and be on the same page every time, then I think we will move the ball a whole lot better. We’re just having problems with our blocking schemes right now. It will be good to have a few weeks to work on that,” said Coach Sanders.
“It has been nice, because of all of the injuries we’ve had to offensive lineman, to have these weeks off. Getting them all back, getting everyone healthy during these two weeks will be a key to us being successful again, I believe.” So, they know what needs to be worked on, and key players are on their way back. It seems like our boys are ready for Callisburg.
How do the Fans Feel?
What’s the word on the street? How are the Tomcats’ fans reacting to this new look, ‘New Day’ football team? I decided to ask someone who has a way with words (and would probably have a few things to say about my grammar in this article).
“Personally, I’m encouraged. The boys are enthusiastic. Although they are disappointed that the scores haven’t been better, they recognize the fact that their skills and their technique have improved. They trust the coaching staff, and that’s evident on the field. In spite of the score at the end of the game, the playing on the field has been better. There is more unification on the team, and they have held some really tough teams that could have just run away with the scores. I’m excited about the district games, and I think we’re going to do a good job,” said Tom Bean’s favorite English teacher, and “Ant Song” expert, Mrs.Youree.
‘We Ready’
It has certainly been an adventure. These first three games have provided us with a look at a new, unified Tom Bean. Everyone from fans, to coaches, to players and students is excited about the new district season. But, why take my word for it? You will just have to see for yourselves this Friday night when our brave Tomcats take on Callisburg at 7:30 in Tom Bean. It’s sure to be an enjoyable rest of the season.