FORT STOCKTON, Texas (KOSA) – The Fort Stockton Panthers made a big change in the offseason, one that includes a new head coach.
Fort Stockton Head Football Coach, DJ Howell, said “I’m just very impressed with them. We’re starting to develop those relationships that you need from a coach to a player. And so, excited about the season, excited about the kind of people that they are.”
Coach DJ Howell started in May with the ultimate goal of leading his team to a gold ball.
But in order to do that, Howell and his staff knew they had to gain the team’s trust.
“They’ve been doing good. They’ve been on our butts making sure that we’re going one hundred percent this offseason. The side camp it’s been tough, but they know what they’re doing, so it’s good,” said Allan Leyva, Fort Stockton Linebacker and Running Back.
The Panthers have 16 seniors on their roster. Many are looking to become better leaders ahead of their journey to a championship.
Fort Stockton Right Guard, Cy Rojas, added “The freshman, the sophomores, even the juniors, even other seniors, they all still need work no matter what. Everyone does and also holding them accountable, just making sure everyone’s doing the right job, everyone’s showing up on time taking accountability of themselves.”
The motto among the players this year is ‘go big or go home’, ready to take on every challenge ahead.
The feeling of getting back on the field after a long summer has them motivated to win every game.
“Now that we’re here I mean, I really look forward to it. It’s been a good three years for us at Fort Stockton and hopefully we can go out with a bang this year,” said Israel Tercero, Fort Stockton Defensive End and Offensive Lineman.
The expectations for this team were set in the off season among players and coaches with only one goal in mind bringing a gold ball home to Fort Stockton.
“Our last ride is going to be very great. Our goal for this year is to hold a gold ball. So, I’m really going to lead my team to a gold ball this year,” said Fort Stockton Quarterback Gerry Diaz.
The Panthers start their season on the road at Lake View on August 29th at 7 p.m.
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