Godsey likes Tigers' attitude, effort
By Staff
Charles Prince, Hartselle Enquirer
What a difference one-year can make. On May 1, 2003 Bob Godsey was hired as head football coach at Hartselle High School. Godsey had less than a week to organize spring practice sessions for the Tigers.
The second spring practice of Godsey's tenure is off to a better start.
"We're light years ahead of last year at this time," Godsey said. "We had so much to put in a short period of time it was difficult. We've got a year behind us and everyone knows each other. It's running smoother this year and we're getting more done."
The Tigers, who are coming off a playoff appearance in the 2003 season, may benefit from the Hartselle baseball team's run in the state playoffs. Football starters Seth Watson (quarterback), Michael Scott (linebacker), Chris Wiley (free safety), Justin Youngblood (cornerback/receiver) and Joe McClanahan (defensive lineman) are all with the Tiger baseball team.
"We are missing five starters that are with the baseball team and can't practice right now," Godsey said.. "That may actually help us this fall because we had got some kids who are getting a lot of work that they would be getting if those five were here."
Godsey thinks the simplicity of the Tigers schemes also benefits the new members of the squad.
"We're working our base stuff this spring," Godsey said. "We just run it over and over and try to do it the best we can. I think we're getting better. I see the kids making fewer mistakes each day."
Godsey says he is pleased with the team's attitude and effort so far in spring drills. The Tigers will end the spring session by hosting Huntsville on May 14 at 7:30 p.m.
Godsey says the spring game can be telling for the coaching staff.
"We want to see as many of our players as possible get some work in the game," Godsey said. "We want to see who is ready to work and play hard. We also have some of our kids who need to get into to the game to get a taste of what football at this level is about."
Some of the underclassmen on the squad have caught the coaches' attention.
"We've seen a couple of our younger players who look ready to play," Godsey said.
"We'll put our best players on the field regardless of their class."
Godsey also praised his team's practice efforts.
"I've seen some good quality work this spring," Godsey said. "We get after one another and that's a good thing. We're really pleased with this group. They're doing everything we ask of them."
