THS coach liked summer work, seeking good things in camp

Thaptown’s offensive linemen work on their footwork during Thursday’s practice. | Scot Beard/FCT

THARPTOWN — New Tharptown coach Bill Smith new he had little time to get his squad ready for the spring game, but the players picked up on the system and put in a solid effort against Phil Campbell.

The tough loss to the Bobcats apparently gave the Tharptown players a desire to prove themselves and responded with a dedication to Smith’s summer workout program.

“We had some kids that were dedicated,” Smith said. “We had the doors open three days per week and asked them to come twice. Some of the kids came all three days.”

Smith said he was pleased with what the team did during the spring and the Wildcats are building on that this fall.

During the first few days of practice the team has been focusing on special teams and offense. Offensively, the Wildcats will stick with what they did in the spring.

Now Smith must decide which positions best suit his players.

Brandon Cothrum spent quite a bit of time at quarterback during his sophomore and junior seasons and is getting some reps at that position during fall camp. He could also see time at tight end if Smith decides to use Jacob Parker at quarterback.

Whatever Smith decides to do, he feels the team will respond well.

“They are really buying in and they are giving a good effort,” Smith said.

That showed during the summer when Tharptown competed in 7-on-7 drills against region foes Hackleburg and Vina as well as Cherokee.

The first day of the drills the team struggled, but played well during the second day and earned a tie against Hackleburg, which played in the state championship game last season.

The Wildcats also performed well in the final day of 7-on-7 against Cherokee and Vina, although those drills were cut short due to rain.

It could be a good year for Tharptown. The Wildcats have put in the work, now they must prepare to apply that work to the playing field.