Sometimes Matt Turner sounds like more of a mathematician than football coach. He’s always crunching the numbers.
The newest Pioneer coach has been pleased with the turnout during his first spring practice, with 60 players dressing out to take the field. Warren County was back in action Monday, its third day wearing pads.
Turner is taking things slow with his group, which features lots of new faces. Starting with the basics was a must, though Turner hopes to crank things up as the team gets more comfortable with his demands.
“We are concentrating on basic fundamental skills,” said Turner. “We’re introducing a new, safer way of tackling. We have focused on it more than anything because player safety is our No. 1 priority. We want to eliminate concussions.
“Our numbers have been awesome. They fluctuate day-to-day this time of year, but the boys are communicating with us. We’re still recruiting (the school) in hopes of getting young men to give us a try, but we’re hoping to have a definite roster by the end of spring ball.”
While further help could be on the way – many potential players are currently tied up in spring sports – Turner is focused on the task at hand. Managing 60 players, along with a new coaching staff, has been a joy for the first-year coach.
“Obviously there’s a learning curve as far as expectations of players, and even coaches. However, we are communicating everyday our expectations and providing a practice plan they’re learning to follow.
“We have been very satisfied with the pace and tempo. We know mistakes are going to be made – that’s why it’s called practice.”
On Monday, Turner spent most of his day as an overseer. He bounced from position groups, working with both his staff and new players on fundamental work. He expects to continue that process through spring practice.
“I have enjoyed being able to roam and evaluate our players. We’re making sure they are in the correct position to better themselves and the team,” said Turner.
Turner knows three good weeks of practice won’t turn around a program still in search of its first winning season since 1990. But he believes these weeks can start laying the groundwork.
“We hope to instill a new dynamic and culture into the program,” said Turner. “We’re trying to inject confidence and excitement – that thrill of being part of something greater than themselves.”
