Union_Fan

I don't see GC matching up well with Graham anywhere unless something has changed since the Union. Misdirection and/or heavy sets might work for a while, but I don't see GC being able to keep it up consistently. Maybe along with some quick passes, they could some have success, but I still see this being all Graham.

Then what happens??? Don't leave us in suspense!😉

I will add one more thing. A coach has to love working with kids/young adults because they can really try your patience. Haha Coaches that I have observed belittling, yelling at, shaming or cussing out kids have absolutely no business working with kids because they're not doing it out of a love for anything. I can only speculate that they do it because they want to exert power over another human being, are trying to make up for insecurities from childhood, or just trying to get attention or become famous. Could be all or other reasons. If they act that way, the only thing for certain is they're not doing it for the right reasons.

Maybe they should tell Uncle Paulie's robot too because Rocky don't remember so good no more. haha

I have no sons, and my daughters are grown, so it definitely wouldn't be daddy ball. haha I remember my little league coaches very well to this day. Two of them did have kids on the team, but neither showed favoritism and both coached long before and well after their sons were in the league. I thought they were all great examples of coaches, especially at that level. Kind, mentoring, tough but not harsh. They taught great fundamentals and challenged us to do better. I've always felt the need to repay that. I think I'll be able to in a few more years as things slow down....I hope!

Disclaimer: I'm not a coach, but if life allows me more time in the future, I'd love to coach little league. Working on the fundamentals, knowing that it will pay off when they reach varsity. I think the #1 reason that coaches do what they do and put up with what they do, is the love of the sport and wanting to stay connected in some way. The #2 reason would have to be love of their community. Some do it for ego I'm sure. Those are the ones that apply for and take any job they can to get started. Try to prove themselves enough for the next "bigger" job until they're where they want to be. Then, they try to win as much as possible to get noticed so they can keep climbing the ladder. I think Thad Wells fits nicely into this category. I'm not saying anything is necessarily wrong with that, but it's probably more ambition than love of the community. In most people, there's an innate desire for a challenge. What, specifically, that challenge is varies from person to person. Maybe it's state titles, maybe it's building a program or mentoring young men to prepare them to be responsible adults. Whatever that challenge is keeps them going. Take Keith Warner at TS for example. What are the odds that he wins a state championship with such a low enrollment? He's done wonders there, and without a doubt knows the odds are stacked against him each and every year. I know he loves his community and those kids. He took on the task of head coach because he hated to see the program in the state it was in. Where does he go from here? He could go 6-4 or 7-3 every year, never win a playoff game, district/regional title and people would still say that he's doing a great job with the numbers he has. Will that be his career or will he go to a bigger school? Time will tell. One thing is for certain. No coach in this area does it for the money.

Nope! That's why I don't bother with the discussion. No matter the solution, an unforeseen problem will arise eventually. It is what it is.

That's been my experience over the years, especially with school systems. The quicker the closing date, the more likely it's already filled!

Deja vu! Haha

Funny you mention Alley. Apparently, the coach agrees with you. The quote I saw in the BHC said he thought Alley was underutilized. Maybe they'll follow your advice Saturday.

If you get there by 12:30, you won't have any trouble with parking. Arrive after 1, and you're on your own! That's why Union people get there so early. Too lazy to walk a mile! haha

I appreciate the Stand by Me reference, but this might have been worse than seeing Ray Brower. haha

I would agree that SH was the best team that Union has played. They're defensive speed was really impressive. Strictly going off the QB position, I can't say that we've faced a great passer except for O'Quin, but he didn't have the protection or receivers last year, so difficult to go by that. That's why we're looking forward to seeing Creasy. I can't wait to see if our D can get pressure on him, and how our DBs cover the receivers. This has the potential to be a much different game than we've seen so far this season.

I knew the semifinals were mandatory Saturdays and the region finals have been Saturday for several years, but assumed it was due to travel. If that's true, good move by Travis. Routine is a must for teenagers.

Probably not the worst decision. He showed promise the first few seasons, but never really progressed.

You win! Haha I love my Bears, but I just don't think I could handle that!

I remember that night well. If I'm not mistaken, it was 14 degrees. I had to walk around the track at halftime just so I could feel my feet again. Still the coldest I've ever been at a game.

I'm excited to see Creasy next week, a lot of Union folks are. I did see Lebanon's QB when he was a Freshman. Was very impressed with his stature, arm strength and accuracy that night.

I'm personally not a fan of day games, but this time of year weather plays a big role. Not many people able to sit out in the cold, night air. I'm sure the travel time for Tazewell was taken into consideration too.

Saturday at 2 pm as of now. Rain is expected Friday and Saturday, but only a 40% chance. That will change before the weekend. My only concern with this game is either team getting caught looking ahead to Gate City next week. 😉

Not a good look for Gretna to struggle that badly with a 3-7 Floyd. Any factors at play, turnovers, missing players?

Will you be coming up to watch any Union playoff games?

You big ol' meanie! Haha

Longer than that! They play tomorrow.😉

That's a bold prediction Cotton!