[RunItUpTheGut]

Good research duck.
Not a lot of people are willing to say it, but the fact is theres just more talent in those counties on an annual basis. The black population is also higher. I dont care to say it, SPEED KILLS, and theres more of it there. Now, just because its there doesnt mean theres an "unfair advantage". It's still kids playing kids, and you'll see that in any state you go to.

As far as the programs priority list.....


1. Feeder Programs. It's HIGHLY important that kids start playing and learning some type of the high school offense so by the time they are there, it comes natural to them. Its extremely difficult in a schools system like Whitley, where there are 6 different elementary programs and the kids dont start really playing together until middle school. However, elementary and middle school wins should be sacrificed for the better good of the high school programs. Learn them early, learn them quick.

2. Support!
You have to make it mean something. Kids from an early age should see the prestige of playing for a program like yours. It should be like you see in the movies. It should be there all time goal, and thats to start and play for there local high school and succeed at it.

3. Coaches.
All the coaches from 3rd grade threw the high school coach need to be on the same page. Its to important that they not get sick of certain coaches and be encouraged to play. Never talked down to, just talked at. They will learn over time that authority is the figure and it will also help them in life, which is the number one purpose of athletics.

4. NUMBERS.
You could have 11 of the best players in the state, and when they face 111 of pretty good players, they'll get beat every time. If i were a new coach id start over from scratch. Id ask to speak to the entire student body of boys and ask them to atleast come out and try it and for them to know that at any time there will be noone making fun of them and or trying to kill them on the field. Being fresh in the 4th quarter is the key to winning in the playoffs.

5. Strength/Speed Conditioning.
Football is a year around sport. It takes a lot for kids to give up there entire high school life to commit to something they may not even want to do or may never see the field. Its important that theres is a coach, atleast 2 that excel in making players bigger, faster, and stronger. Its to important to not do and you can really see it on the field when teams are overmatched.

Start from the bottom up and you'll never go wrong.
Teach em early, keep em spirited, and let them know there doing something that means something.