Published: August 05, 2008 08:29 pm            

Wildcats have first practice under Bowie

By SCOTT TYLER

H-P Sports Editor



Hard hits, helmets cracking, bodies flying all over the place. And it was only the first day of practice.

Palestine held its first practice under new head coach Booker Bowie Monday and even in without pads on, the Wildcats were going full speed.

“There was a lot of excitement and enthusiasm today,” Bowie said. “The time just flew by because it was a lot of fun being out there.”

Palestine had 85 varsity and junior varsity players in helmets Monday, a number Bowie was very pleased with.

“It was a great sign that everyone we expected to be there showed up on time and ready to go,” the Palestine head coach said.

Palestine has had 25 freshman on the first day and Bowie expects that number to increase as the week goes on.

The first day of practice included individual drills for each position and then team workouts for the offense and defense.

“I saw great effort in both the individual workout and in groups,” Bowie said. “They seemed to be very focused today.”

Bowie said he felt the offensive line was in sync and the defense was flying to the football. During Palestine’s final team workout, the varsity defense was going full speed and making tackles even without pads on.

“These kids love this defense and they are really excited,” Bowie said. “They motivate each other on defense.”

Palestine continues to practice without pads through Thursday.

“We are going to work on form and technique this week,” Bowie said. “It is good to work on the fundamentals before we get pads on.”

Palestine also did not have to deal with drastic Texas heat as temperatures stayed below 80 degrees while the Wildcats were on the field. However, temperatures are expected to climb throughout the week.

“It was not bad this morning but it is something to keep on your mind,” Bowie said. “You have to make sure kids get plenty of fluids and we have water all over the field.”

————

Scott Tyler may be contacted via e-mail at styler@palestineherald.com

        

• Click to discuss this story with other readers on our forums.