By Charles Prince

The North Jefferson News



New Gardendale High head football coach Chris Fancher has been impressed with his club so far this spring. The former college coach said he likes what he’s seen from his defensive players.

“Our defense has been impressive,” Fancher said. “They’re playing fast and hard and I’ve been impressed with their pursuit.”

Fancher has several returning starters on the defensive side of the ball, including Tyrone Bowie and Nick Pogue, who were both named to The North Jefferson News All-North Jefferson team after the 2007 season.

Pogue may contribute on special teams this fall, as he’s worked some as the long snapper for kicks this spring.

“Tyrone Bowie is an unbelievable leader,” Fancher said. “I’ve been impressed with him and several other players this spring.”

Fancher said he’s pleased with the progress his club has made since the beginning of spring practice, but he said his team still has a ways to go.

“We’re nowhere near where we need to be, but we’re making progress,” he said.

Fancher said he’s pleased that his offensive players are picking up his offense. He said his players are now at the point, where they can “think in the new offense.”

“Every offense, is just about the same,” he said. “There are only so many plays and so many routes you can run. The biggest differences between offenses, are what you call your plays. They’re communicating now and growing by leaps and bounds. They’re learning to think in our offense.”

Fancher has two two-time All-North Jefferson selections to build his offense around. Senior quarterback Conner McCain, who missed half of the 2007 season, after fracturing an ankle, has returned and appears to be completely healed.

Running back/flanker Trey Hilliard, who scored 22 touchdowns in 2007, is one of several players who Fancher said have impressed him with their play.

Seniors Conner McCain and Daniel Thomas among other players were cited by Fancher has having gotten off to good starts during spring drills.

“We had some guys do some good things so far,” Fancher added. “We’re improving, that’s what you look for. We’re improving some every day.”

Fancher said it’s unlikely the Rockets will play a spring game, but it something should change, Rockets fans would be informed.