This interview was recorded at the Athens High School Fieldhouse with Coach Zac Harrell and Michael V. Hannigan.
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The Athens Hornets began practice this week for the 2022 football season. I will meet with Coach Harrell each week to talk about the team and the upcoming opponent.
This week we discuss the first couple of days of practice, Meet the Hornets night, and Saturday's Maroon and White Scrimmage.
I. Big Turnout (:56)
Summary: The Hornets have had a great turnout for football this year. There are 161 high school players and 163 middle school players. Coach Harrell said these numbers represent more than 40 percent of the male students at the high school and almost 70 percent at the middle school.
Quote: "That's a credit to our kids for buying in," Coach Harrell said, "and to our coaches."
Remember: The quality of the middle school program is important to what happens at the high school.
II. Start to Practice (2:42)
Summary: Because Athens started school on Aug. 1, the Hornets went straight to a regular practice schedule. That means they practice in the afternoons in the heat. Coach Harrell said there are water stations and trainers at practice pushing water.
Quote: "We don't have the luxury of practicing in the morning," Coach Harrell said. ... "Our kids have handled that challenge incredibly well."
III. This Is A Veteran Team (4:50)
Summary: The 2022 Hornets have a lot of experience in key positions. Athens has 22 seniors this year and 17 with varsity experience.
Quote: "Our kids, because they've played at a high level, have an understanding of what to do," Coach Harrell said, "and what we expect out of them." ... "We have so much experience with that senior class."
Remember: Quarterback Ty Arroyo will be a three-year starter for the Hornets in 2022.
IV. Meet the Hornets (10:22)
Summary: Athens ISD will be hosting its annual Meet the Hornets night at 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 4, at Bruce Field. The event is sponsored by the Athens Booster Club and Brookshire's. There will be free hot dogs, chips, cake, and drinks.
Quote: "We've got great kids here in Athens," said Coach Harrell. "Every sport that we play we have great student-athletes."
Remember: Meet the Hornets is open to the public.
V. Maroon and White Scrimmage (11:38)
Summary: The Hornets will hold their Maroon and White Scrimmage Saturday morning at Bruce Field. The scrimmage will start immediately after team photos, at about 10 a.m.
Quote: "It is an evaluation tool for us," said Coach Harrell. "It's our first time to see guys in live action."
Remember: Saturday will be the first time the Hornets can hit full speed.
These posts are free thanks to Hannigan Media sponsors Athens Screen Printing, Tinsley Law & Title, Gibson Pharmacy, R&R Lawn Specialist, Gilbert Electric, Hunan Buffet, and Holt Wrecker.
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