Photos Ivan Felipe
Pepperell finished last season 2-8, having both of their wins in the region. The majority of their games were close, but the Dragons were unable to close out games, missing the playoffs for the first time in almost 10 years.
“Last year was year zero. We had to rebuild a culture, and we are going to have a new philosophy. We had to build trust. We had four games where we lost by a total of 14 points, and that can swing your season. I let the players hear it as much as possible, so they can have some motivation. We truly were extremely close,” said Head Coach Brandon Haywood.
Spring practice went very well for the Dragons. “We had a good turnout for spring. There was a lot of conditioning, and summer was the first time we had everyone. We are doing things completely different scheme-wise, and our kids and coaches are picking up and running with it. We are doing amazing strength-wise, and are much stronger than we were a year ago. We are off to a good start.”
In order to turn things around for his squad, effort needs to be maximized in all phases. “We don’t need you to skip that rep in the weight room. Your effort is the difference between losing and winning a game; it is not a mantra to me, but “refuse to lose” is plastered everywhere. Whether it’s a football player, regular person, student athlete, or in the weight room, I am trying to shift the way that we think and make it a constant mindset of how we are in life.”
The summer has been busy, but there are a few takeaways from the course of time during the offseason.
“These kids picked up our scheme fast; they’re smart. It is a resilient bunch, and we run a lot. I am trying to practice with a sense of urgency and create the tempo of a game. The only thing that will get us ready for game one is game one. Our coaches and players are preparing well, and everything we are doing is good for all parties. We are trying to make our kids become students of the game and make them learn why and how things are supposed to work.”
Pepperell returns a lot of talent and leadership that should pay dividends come fall. Stephen Sapp will anchor the defensive line, as well as Hayden Wheat. Jace Poe, Chris Alphin, and Sam Ross highlight the linebacker core. Madoc Garcia and Tucker Glenn will disrupt offenses. Moss Tant will take over QB duties. Freshman Chance Hopper will contribute as safety and quarterback, and Trey Chatman will play running back and defensive back. Hayden Newberry could see minutes in the backfield and linebacker core. Tyler Barkley could see some good minutes at tight end.
“Lindale is a special place. We want to get back to the standard; we underachieved last year. I want to give results to our kids, and everything that I’m going to invest and commit to is to our overall team success.”
The Dragons have what it takes to have great success in 25-26. They will certainly have a say of the top spot in the region.
