Published: August 14, 2008 02:57 pm            

Eagles hoping to ‘make things better’

“We want to make things better.”

If any Waurika football prospects hadn’t already heard new coach Larry VanBeber’s goal for the program prior to Monday evening, they got the message during a team meeting at WHS.

VanBeber and his staff met with about 24 players, from returning senior veterans to freshman newcomers, along with their parents and a few Eagle fans. The former Empire skipper outlined the schedule the Eagles started following when official practice began Tuesday, and some equipment and practice gear were issued.

VanBeber also reiterated the theme he wants to promote, in taking the initial steps toward reestablishing a program that’s struggled through most of the 21st century, including an 0-10 season in 2007.

In a preview of his team meeting speech, while playing in the Booster Club Golf Tournament Saturday, VanBeber said, “We want to make things better. That’s the first thing I told the kids when we first got together back in the spring.”

Asked about the Eagles being picked to finish last in a poll of District A-4 coaches conducted by The Oklahoman, he stayed upbeat.

“When you’re 0-10 the year before, it’s not surprising you’re picked at the bottom at the start of a new season,” VanBeber noted. “But 0-10 isn’t even a discussion point between the coaches and the kids. It’s not even history, because we’re not looking back.

“The most important things are today, tomorrow and getting ready for this season. As we start practice, we hope the time we spend with them will result in more positives than negatives, and that we focus on improving.

“I can guarantee improvement, but I’m not sure how that’s going to equate in wins and losses. Right now, we want to make things better. That’s the message.”

Following Monday’s team meeting, VanBeber was pleased with the turnout.

“I counted 17 freshmen and up, but (assistant) coach (Doug) Gunter counted 24, so I’m pleased with the numbers,” he said. “We had a good turnout of parents, and we also had a pretty good number of junior high kids show up, who didn’t even need to be here.

“I’m pleased, and I’m excited about getting started.”

Because school began Thursday, the Eagles slated just two days of two-a-day workouts, before falling into the after-school practice regime that will continue through the season.

The Eagles will be able to don pads on Friday, and VanBeber said an offensive scrimmage is planned for a practice session Saturday morning.

        

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