You may be asking why a preview is being released when the season was just pushed back to a March start?
Beyond the fact that Football is now & forever will be a Fall sport, the potential of the same concerns still existing in February is not being ignored. So instead of letting coach Burgstahler's comments go to waste, the original plan is being executed.
Is there a memory or two that really stands out as the highlight(s)? Was there anything that happened that was especially surprising?
"Last Season was my most memorable as a coach so far. We had players set new school records in rushing, TD's, and Sacks. As a team, we matched the best-ever record that PCS has ever had and won an Away playoff game. In the end, the moment that will stick with me about that team is how we played against WAO where, in the 4th quarter, we held the ball for every play of the quarter except 1. It sealed a win vs a very solid team who ended up being a Section Champion and State Qualifier."
As for the current situation, how have social distancing and the other limitations affected your players?
"Our players have been put in pods and have been working outside with Strength and Conditioning instructors from EHP Crossfit. Moreover, all of our usual June events were canceled, but we are looking forward in hopes things will still be on."
Last season was years in the making but where does that leave you going into this Fall?
"You are correct about the years in the making. It was 4 years to be exact. We have lost 9 seniors going into this season and we had our most ever players (23) ever. Those seniors and that group had a lot of talent and speed in it. However, we have replenished our system with some experienced players and size with a large Junior group coming up."
What do you think your roster's strengths will be?
"Last season was my most memorable as a coach so far. We had players set new school records in rushing, TD's, and Sacks. As a team, we matched the best-ever record that PCS has ever had and won an Away playoff game. In the end, the moment that will stick with me about that team is how we played against WAO where, in the 4th quarter, we held the ball for every play of the quarter except 1. It sealed a win vs a very solid team who ended up being a Section Champion and State Qualifier."
Which players do you anticipate stepping into expanded roles?
🔵 Phil Lien - Junior - RB/MLB - He has put in a ton of work since the final play of last season. He was our starting MLB all last season. He will be carrying the load on both sides of the ball.
🔵 Sam Swedberg - Senior - TE/DE - This will be his 5th year as a starter. I brought him up as an 8th grader to fill holes. He is a Captain and is one of the strongest players I have ever had.
🔵 Riley Erkenbrack - Junior - FB/OLB - He has worked his tail off this off-season. He earned a starting spot by the end of last season and will be our spark plug of intensity.
🔵 Caleb Boyer - Junior - C/NG - Never missed a single play as a Center last fall. He is the strength of our Offensive line. He is a big body and extremely smart.
What do you have to say about the MSHSL's decision?
"Well, we get 12 days of practice this fall. So we will try to use them to the best of our abilities. We are shooting for and hoping for a season this spring. We will hold on to Hope. It's truly hard to watch the ND schools right across the river practicing and my team can't. I can't imagine what my players are feeling."
What else would you like people to know about your team going into the season?
"We are a team that has come a long way. For those that have supported us through the years, THANK YOU! We are still growing and hope to be in the top half in the section this season."
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