Bulldog football gets going

By DAVID ERICKSON

Whitefish Pilot

Under sunny August skies over the weekend, the Whitefish Bulldogs football team took to the practice fields for the first time this season.

The energy level of the young men was high, and green and gold jerseys were flying all over the fields next to Whitefish High School.

“I was really interested to see what kind of shape we’re in,” said Patrick Dryden, head football coach. “But things look pretty good.”

The team ran a variety of drills, from offensive formations to the Black Mamba, a sprinting game.

“We’re working on conditioning, putting in a lot of plays, and footwork,” Dryden said.

Dryden said he’s been impressed with the positive attitude and work ethic that he’s seen so far from the guys.

“It’s been fantastic, and we want to maintain that type of ethic,” he said.

Dryden said that despite the heat, he didn’t have any significant fatigue or injury problems with his players. He said that they haven’t done any hitting, but they will have a light scrimmage on Saturday, Aug. 25, at 10 a.m.

Dryden stressed that while the commitment of the players he has is superb, he is a little concerned about the low turnout of players this year.

“Our secondary positions are an area of concern,” he said. “Injuries are going to be the key to our season, because we don’t have any depth.”

Dryden said that five offensive starters from last year and six defensive starters will be returning this season. He said that his starting quarterback, Alex Elespuru, has shown great leadership. He also said several other key players, including center/linebacker Kevin McDowell and Byron Whitcomb are looking sharp so far.

“We need repetitions, things are not perfect yet,” said Dryden.

The Bulldogs open the season in Havre on Aug. 25, and their first home game is on Sept. 7 against Frenchtown.

“We’re having fun, that’s the bottom line,” said Dryden. “We’re out here learning the life lessons.”