You can’t begin to talk about Jacksonville area football dynasties without mentioning Fletcher.
At least until the last two seasons.
With the hiring of new coach Kevin Brown, Fletcher is entering a new era of football, and hopefully, a successful one.
Fletcher missed the playoffs last season for the first time since 2006, and with that, first-year coach Ricky Medlock was let go. Now, Coach Brown hopes to bring his new philosophies to this historic program.
“Our goal is to get to the state playoffs,” he says. “We have to set some team goals and get back to a true Fletcher way of playing football. I believe some early season success will get that attitude back.”
That’s going to be a challenge, as their schedule is frontloaded with talented teams like Sandalwood, Providence and Atlantic Coast. That, combined with the fact that the team is losing five starters on each side of the ball.
However, the 6’6 280lb OL Cordavien Suggs is going to be difficult to get past. He’s received many college offers already.
Also on the prospect list are DL/OL Keshawn Bennett, LB Damien Anderson, DB Zier Webb and DB/WR Ronnie Stevens.
As for his goals for the season, Coach Brown wants to cut down on mental mistakes, win the turnover battle, and start fast and control the clock throughout the game. He hopes this will ultimately propel them to the state playoffs.
“I like a balanced offense that takes what the defense is giving them. We will use multiple formations to achieve a ball-control offense. As for defense, swarm to the ball, move as a team, fill your lanes, and create turnovers. Read your keys, and most importantly, do your job.”
He says the team’s greatest weakness is trying to shake off last year’s record.
“Coming off a 5-5 record and not making it to the playoffs is something the senior group has to get over. Can they lead and accomplish that goal?”
We, along with Coach Brown, will have to wait and see.
Duncan U. Fletcher Senators
Fletcher Seeking Return To Dominance With New Coach
Written by Kim Hoy
Photo by jacksonville.com
