Football Is Back!!!

Football is back, well at least modified practices have begun. Today I visited Woodlawn High School in Baton Rouge, La.

“I was surprised at the turnout,” head coach Marcus Randall said, “we had about 55 or so guys show up yesterday and today at practices.” “We had to cancel Monday’s practice to be on the safe side with the Tropical Depression, and today I was concerned with turnout because of the rain. Overall though, I am surprised at how many came out and the attitude they came with. The guys did not come here to just practice however they came with a purpose. Typically we (coaches) have to motivate a lot of the guys, but the last two days, the players have been excited to start the workouts,” said coach Randall. I could tell by the way coach Randall and coach Douglas interacted with the players, that they too, were having fun again.

Woodlawn will be lead this season by Sophomore QB Rickie Collins and Senior S Lanard Harris. Both of whom had huge seasons last year and want to build on them. Collins told me he was excited to be back and looked forward to getting in a rhythm with his receivers. As I watched practice several players stood out to me: JR RB Amani Givens, SR MLB Aaron Gooden, JR OL Tylan Day, and JR DB/WR Kyle Jones. All of whom were energetic, and practiced with a purpose.

After talking to coach Randall and a few of the players, I am excited to see how this Woodlawn team responds this season. There is a lot of talented athletes here, esp. the underclassmen. I would not be surprised to see Woodlawn in the mix this next season for the 5A District 5 Championship.