FELCH, Mich. (WZMQ) – In a difficult decision, the coaches at North Dickinson County School have decided to cut the football program back to only JV this year. With a number of younger players on the team, the decision was made in the interest of their safety. However, despite the setback, the coach and some players are already looking ahead to their first game of the season.
“Practices have been going really good,” said the head coach, Bryce Kelly. “We’ve got a lot accomplished. A lot of these kids have played from last year on the JV team, so they kind of know a lot of what’s going on, especially with the playbook and my style of practicing. And then the freshman, they’re really catching on quick. So it’s really easy to coach these kids because they have a really good understanding of the game already.”
With four practices already under their belt, the soon-to-be sophomores are feeling confident and ready for the upcoming game against Norway. Spencer Kramer, a running back and wide receiver, commented, “I’m ready for Norway.” Richard Haney, the center and defensive tackle, added, “I’m looking forward to Norway’s game.” Even Brady Jungwirth, the quarterback, who has been the manager since fourth grade, expressed his excitement, saying, “I’ve been around it for awhile.” All agreed, they like the hitting drills, which are scheduled to start on Monday.
“Come see what we’re all about, see what we can do,” Kramer added.
Despite the challenges faced by the football program this year, the coach and players are determined to make the best of the situation. They are focused on their upcoming game and are eager to showcase their skills on the field. With their dedication and understanding of the game, they are confident that they can overcome any obstacles that come their way.
The players at North Dickinson County School are not only focused on their physical training but also on their mental well-being. They have incorporated yoga into their pre-practice routine and spend time in the weight room before every practice. With practices scheduled at least five days a week, the players are giving their all to prepare for this year’s season.
According to the coach, this dedication to the sport will teach the players important life lessons. “Learning sportsmanship, hard work, being accountable. Sports are huge for that, for these kids,” he said. The players understand that football is not just a game but an opportunity to grow as individuals and develop important character traits.
The coach is focusing on getting a good youth program going for the younger players, to spark more interest in the sport, and to alleviate some of the travel constraints parents face who have to travel with their athletes to Iron Mountain to play cooperatively. The coach says having a good youth program back at the Nordic football field would be worthwhile, even if it’s just flag football. The coach says getting kids out to just watch the games can help reignite an interest and passion for the sport for the kids at North Dickinson County School.
As the team continues to work hard, the coaches and athletic directors in the Great Lakes 8 West Conference will meet on Tuesday to determine this year’s football schedule. The players eagerly await the announcement, knowing that each game will provide them with an opportunity to showcase their skills and the valuable lessons they have learned through their dedication to the sport.
With their focus on personal growth and their determination to succeed, the North Dickinson County School football team is ready to face any challenges that come their way this season.
