BAKER — Baker School’s football team has wrapped up the first week of spring practice, and Gator Coach Matt Brunson couldn’t be much happier.
“The future is very bright,” he said. We’ve got a bunch of kids out. I think we are around 85. “
“We’ve got a bunch of kids that have got to learn what to do. But they are doing it with the right attitude and they are getting after each other.”
Baker spring football practice photos>>>
As is the case with most teams during the spring, the Gator varsity and junior varsity are sharing the practice field. The percentage of varsity and junior varsity players was right at half and half, with about 43 varsity players and 42 junior varsity kids.
Brunson said the varsity and junior varsity players alike approach the game with the same effort.
“They are just Baker kids,” he said. “Every year when we get going, they give energy, effort and have a positive attitude. The way these kids work is unbelievable.”
Brunson has added another member to his coaching staff. Edwin Lowery, Brunson’s former Baker teammate and the quarterback on two Gator state championship teams, returns home to help the team.
Not only did Lowery quarterback the Gators to a pair of state titles, he also was the starting quarterback on a championship NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics) team at Carson Newman College in Jefferson City, Tenn. Lowery will coach running backs and defensive backs.
“It’s great to have Coach Lowery back,” Brunson said. “He’s definitely a Baker guy. He’s got that heart because he played here, he takes a lot of pride in the community.
“He loves the kids. He’s a great addition to our staff.”
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This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Baker Gators bring 'energy, effort and a positive attitude' (PHOTOS, VIDEO)