A summer of transition for Republic Tigers football is well underway, and new head coach Wes Beachler likes what he sees so far.
“They’re in there working very hard and they’re very coachable,” Beachler says. “Obviously any time there’s a turnover, there’s going to be some changes in philosophies, and the kids have handled that pretty well.
“And I’ve been very impressed with the coaching staff and the work they’re doing. All the coaches are in there working hard at every level to implement what we’re doing.”
As weightlifting and conditioning continues at the high school level, Beachler and his staff have spent the past couple of weeks laying a foundation for the future. Last week, it was the Middle School camp. This week is the youth camp for players who will be moving up into the school program over the next several seasons.
“Unless they decide not to play, 95% of these young men are going to be playing for me someday. I think it’s very important that we establish our philosophy, how we do things at this level, and obviously we have a vested interest in watching these guys develop,” says Beachler.
“An exciting part of coaching is watching 7th graders develop into mature young men and become impact players for you as juniors and seniors, so it’s important to get down here and get those fundamentals established, and build rapport with those young men.”
At the high school level, Beachler says the specifics of the transition are falling into place.
“We’re making a few changes in the weight room and they’ve adapted to that pretty well. And obviously some changes in philosophy on the offensive and defensive side, and on schemes, and they seem to be picking that up pretty well, too,” he says. “Overall, very high character, very hard-working young men, and I’ve been very impressed so far.”