Stampede Look to Trample Negativity!

First Day Jitters?

Change is difficult when it comes to having a new head coach for your football team but to former University of Alabama, wide-receiver Christion Jones, gathering his team seems to come naturally.

Kicking off practice yesterday (August 5, 2024), the Paul W. Bryant Stampede (Cottondale, AL) isn't wasting time getting accustomed to their new coach.

I was allowed to speak with Coach Jones before practice started and was also able to watch some of what he is implementing into his program.

When asked how things are going since taking over as head coach, Jones states, "It's just been a lot of paperwork...making sure everything is right for the season". Jones added, "We need to be diligent in keeping these kids eligible and doing what they are supposed to be."

Getting To Work

Paul W. Bryant's football team started their first day of practice in the weight room with some strength and conditioning. Coach Jones brought the team together beforehand letting them know what he expected of them in the weight room; the team responded very positively to the expectations of Jones, making the effort to do things correctly and following the guidance from the incredible strength coaches that are passionate about getting these young men in shape.

"It's About How You Respond..."

Before making their way to the practice field Coach Jones brought the team together one more time in the locker room for a team meeting.

Coach Jones starts the meeting by reading over the practice set up for the day and giving his expectations for players and coaches as they are on the field.

Jones likes to keep it clean, as he has stressed to his players, "There will be no profanity on the field or in the facilities, I have already told my coaches they should not use profanity with you and you will not use it with them." Jones holds his players to a certain standard but his coaches as well. Jones always speaks on setting the standard and he is doing just that!

The Paul W. Bryant Stampede start their season at home hosting the Percy Julian Phoenix.

We look forward to keeping up with Coach Jones and the Stampede throughout the season. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter so you never miss an update!