This year the Oxford Wildcats faced an array of challenges: a new coach appointed two weeks before season opening, a new game plan and training routine and a couple players requesting admission part way through the season.
And through it all the team managed to show teamwork, determination and a will to try right up to the end.
“Considering I got the job two weeks before the season began, I think it was pretty successful over all,” said head coach Steve Laidlaw.
Laidlaw had little experience with the team before accepting the position. However, he commends everyone, especially the seniors, on their tremendous positive attitude and leadership.
“I really feel that with the help of assistant coach Kurtis Etherton and the positive leadership of the seniors everyone was able to have a positive season,” said Laidlaw. “The kids really responded well and that’s all I can ask for.”
The team is wishing seven seniors good luck as they head on their way into the world. Those graduating include Andy Bukoski, Jeff Preutz, Mark Minor, Chris Glass, Chris Keener, Kevin Boni and Anthony Bryant.
“We’re going to have a hard time replacing the positive attitudes of all the seniors,” Laidlaw concluded.
The Wildcat’s season ended this past Monday with a 53-33 loss to Brandon at districts.
However, Steve Laidlaw said that getting through the first year’s growing pains and improving as a team is what really matters.
“We were more competitive than I thought we would be,” he added. “Now the system is implemented.”
Laidlaw said he is looking forward to the next school year when he will know all the players better and the teamwork will be even stronger.