Spring practice review: Teams get first look at strengths, weaknesses for 2016

It’s the time of year when football coaches and their teams have boundless hopes and expectations for the coming season. Spring practices are in the books, and most takeaways are positive as they transition into the summer months.

Teams also get a first look at their challenges, though. From losing key players to breaking in new systems or coaches, each team is trying to iron out the kinks early so that it will be nothing but refinement near the start of the season.

Here’s a look at a handful of teams around the area, areas of focus for spring practice and a number of players who stood out to each coach.

Shaw

No. of participants: 70

You need to know: Coming off of a fourth-place region finish and a trip to the Class 5A playoffs, Shaw had a good turnout at spring practice. Coach Chuck Stamey said the defense was the stronger of the units, which is typical, and that returnees like wide receiver Nick Beason, defensive back Tyrone Davis, defensive end Devan Porter-Wilson, linebacker Bubba Burtin, and offensive lineman Miquail Harvey all had strong showings.

Calvary Christian

No. of participants: 38

You need to know: Calvary Christian went into the offseason with the goal of replacing Anthony Santiago, the team’s top player the past three seasons. Coach Brian Osborne said Tredrick Wilburn looked strong in that role, and Chad McNeal, Brandon Wright and Mack English all had impressive springs filling holes on the line. Kasen Andrews and Trey Anthony showed progress at quarterback, as the team tries to ransition into a more balanced offense.

Northside

No. of participants: 80

You need to know: Northside finished second in region play last season, nearly capturing a region title. This spring was the first look at a team that lost a couple of key starters, but also returns some players who will become its new leaders. Coach Morgan Ingram highlighted wide receiver David Apiag, linebacker Caleb Johnson and defensive lineman Talon Gamble as standouts. He also noted a strong spring from running back Carson Parker, who will try and step into the role vacated by All-Bi-City first-teamer Kalan Watts, who graduated.

Brookstone

No. of participants: 54

You need to know: Coach Scott Pethtel said the objective of spring was to help the young players learn the offensive and defensive schemes, a mission he says they accomplished. Senior players like Drake Beck, Josh Long, Walker Cottrell and Levi Wolff all stood out, according to Pethtel, as did junior Russell Blanchard, Richard Hill and Banks Massey. Sophomore Jeremiah Burgess also caught his eye.

Harris County

No. of participants: 83

You need to know: Harris County had a down year in 2015 following the graduation of the majority of its starters. Under new coach Zac Howard, who takes over for Dwight Jones, the team will look to get back on track in a new region next season. Howard said the offense looked stronger in the spring with a year of experience under its belt. Tank Adams and Calvon Harris showed strong bursts and better vision, and Xavier Gonzalez made a number of impressive catches. T.J. Chiles transitioned from running back to linebacker well. He said the team’s defense will look smaller, but will play a lot faster than a year ago.

Pacelli

No. of participants: 27

You need to know: Pacelli was the victim of another team’s success for spring practice, as a number of players also played on the soccer team that advanced to the state semifinals. Still, coach Buster Connally said it was a strong showing, particularly for seniors Bryce Hagler and Michael Herrera. Connally said the Vikings will count on Hagler to help lead receivers and Herrera the defense. The latter was third on the team in tackles last year. Junior Justin Bates also showed the ability to lead on the offensive line.

Hardaway

No. of participants: N/A

You need to know: In the spring football game under new coach Michael Woolridge, the first-team defense came out on top with a 21-15 win. Senior safety Antonio Campbell was defensive MVP of the game, and JaKobe Ellerbee was offensive MVP. Campbell preserved his team’s win with a game-ending interception. Ellerbee had touchdown runs of 11 and 48 yards. Jatavius Vazquez also had two sacks on defense.

Coming Sunday, June 5: Part two of our look at high school football teams in the Bi-City.

This story was originally published May 28, 2016 at 2:56 PM with the headline "Spring practice review: Teams get first look at strengths, weaknesses for 2016."