News

COACH’S FORUM - BRADFORD

Halloween, Homecoming, Black jerseys and a win for the Tornadoes

This past Friday was our Homecoming game against Interlachen High School. Bradford High defeated the Interlachen Rams 28-6. We played solid against the Rams but got caught up with all of the distractions of Homecoming week. Three touchdowns were called back due to penalties. Our team has got to be more focused if we hope to win the last two games of the season.

Overall I was pleased with the win. The Tornado defense pitched a shut out. Interlachen's lone score came off of a interception. The defense forced six turn overs and blocked a P.A.T. and field goal attempt. We played well, but still to sloppy in the early part of the game.

We had several defensive standouts. Charles Jones a cb had two interceptions, which gives him eight for the year through the first eight games. The defensive line was tough all night. John Tyson and Terrence Slocum are seniors who have anchored us up front on defense all season. Linebacker CJ Covington also played solid. Many of our JV players got playing time on defense as well.

The offense is getting better every week. We still haven't played up to our full potential yet, but things are so much better than earlier in the year. Trey Winkler at quarterback has a nice grasp of what we are trying to accomplish and has great leadership skills. The team had several standouts on offense but Gerald Goodman a senior running back was a force as he scored four touchdowns. Gerald also starts at defensive end in our 4-4 defense. The offensive staff had a great game plan and made excellent adjustments at half time.

Both of our kickers had solid games as well. Eric Burnal a freshman place kicker and Tyler Cubbedge a junior punter continue to improve weekly. Over all our special teams have to get better for us to have a chance vs. Keystone next week. We must protect and cover better.

Last year a group of players approached me about wearing black jerseys on Halloween. Homecoming was also on this Trick or Treat Night. We warmed up in red but switched to black right before we went out. The players did not know that we were going to switch. The mood was fantastic to say the least. It was great to see our players respond in the manner in which they exhibited. It was a special memory that they will never forget.

Our next two games are on the road. Next Friday we play that hard nosed bunch of Indians at Keystone Heights. I feel that from top to bottom the Indians are the best coached team in our area. Coach Dickinson has his team well prepared every week. They have had several injuries this year which has affected their progress. Regardless of who suits up for the Indians, they will be a force for us to contend with. I know we will be in for a physical challenge.

Our players need the Tornado fans to travel across the county line to support them in what will be a tough game.

I would like to thank our local Hardee's for our weekly player of the week awards and helping our JV program with several meals.