As Lakeside High School prepares for its spring football game this Thursday, excitement and confidence continue to grow throughout the program. After weeks of intense practices, conditioning, and team-building activities, players say the Vikings are focused on improving together and setting the tone for the upcoming season.
Returning players have described the atmosphere around the team as energetic and determined. Junior player Roderick Butler, who has played football at Lakeside for two years, said the team is focused on staying disciplined and locked in as game day approaches.
“It’s been great getting back on the field,” Butler said. “ Right now we just trynna stay locked in.”
Throughout the spring, Lakeside players have worked on improving fundamentals, learning plays, and building stronger chemistry with teammates. According to Butler, the team has shown major growth over the past several weeks of practice.
“We all have got better at our position groups and grown as one,” Butler said
Junior Seth Williams also believes the team has taken major steps forward this spring. Williams explained that players have been working daily to improve their individual skills while helping each other become better athletes overall.
“We have been going by this one percent every day,” Williams said. “You pick something you want to get better at, and you work on it.”
The coaching staff has placed a stronger emphasis on discipline and preparation during spring workouts. Players say one major focus has been learning the playbook and adjusting quickly during practices.
“Learning the plays and being able to adjust if they don’t work,” Williams said. “It’s been a lot of different plays that the young guys have to learn and work on.”
Leadership has also become an important part of the program this offseason. Williams described how the team introduced a new tradition where freshmen are paired with upperclassmen mentors to help strengthen team chemistry and create stronger relationships in the locker room.
“We go to bond on another level, and the locker room is great,” Williams said.
Several players have also focused on improving specific parts of their game before the season begins. Butler said he has worked heavily on footwork while trying to become more confident on the field. Williams added that he has concentrated on becoming “faster, stronger and staying focused” heading into his senior year.
Despite the hard work and preparation, the team’s goals remain simple. Butler said his motivation for the season is clear: “ Win state.”
Williams hopes his own development can inspire teammates to continue pushing themselves throughout the offseason. “ If I can do it, why can’t they do it too?” he said.
Thursday’s spring game will give Lakeside fans an early look at the team’s progress and allow players to showcase the work they have put in during the offseason. With returning leadership, improved chemistry, and a strong competitive mindset, the Vikings are hoping this spring is only the beginning of a successful football season ahead.
