By By Matthew Nascone
As the school year winds down, many athletes are looking forward to summer sports in the recreational leagues, but football players know what time it is. It is time for spring football practice and the Escambia County Blue Devils kicked off their spring practice Monday.
"I was pleased with how the kids responded," ECHS head coach Kyle Davis said. "I was afraid they would get out there and not hustle at all, but we only had to say something to them a couple times and I love that. They hustled everywhere they went. They seemed enthusiastic about starting."
Davis said the squad got a lot done in the first day and that is always a good sign for the upcoming season. He also said it has been a long time since that final game of the 2005 season and he is ready to lead the Blue Devils in his second campaign.
"Our guys have been in the weight room all winter and spring and they are ready to hit people and get the real practice started," Davis said.
The overall attitude on the field and off is great, Davis said.
"Last year was my first year and these guys did not know what to expect, but now that we have had a year to get to know each other they know what I expect from them," he said. "And they are tired of getting beat. They want to show people they are a competitive team and that kind of attitude is great."
The squad had 14 incoming seniors dressed out on the first day and Davis said a couple were injured or the number would be 17.
"I think the seniors will be key this year and they have to step up and be leaders," Davis said. "Most of our young guys are followers and they are good team guys. If the first practice was any indication, this team is going to have great chemistry. And liking each other can go a long way."