The summer has nearly escaped us, as the 2012- 2013 sports season has arrived. It was a very eventful summer full of new challenges and adventures for me and one I will never forget.

“Two-a-days” or what I would rather call Fall Workouts began on Monday, August 6th for not only area schools, but the entire state. Monday morning, I was able to make my rounds to Pleasanton, Poteet, Jourdanton and Charlotte to catch volleyball and football squads in action. Tuesday morning, I had the honor of fighting 18-wheelers on Highway-16 for my space on the trail down to Cowgirl Country in Tilden.

A constant that I found at every workout, was dedicated coaches and athletes who were focused on success. It is always great to find a group of coaches who truly care and are there for more than a pay check or a stepping stone. Overall in the Brush Country, there are more tenured coaches than non and that is the reason why I have had the honor of covering so many playoff teams since my arrival over two years ago. Success is not built over night as consistency usually brings success.

One might ask what I saw when I went out to each of the four football workouts.

When I arrived in Pleasanton, I had the opportunity to hear Coach Tab Dumont’s 15+ minute opening speech to his squad. To sum it all up, it is time to get this ship turned around and back on the winning path. Look for things in Eagle Land to be all work and no play this season. Go Big Green!

Over in Poteet, I didn’t get to see much, except a short workout in the weight room along with a few lessons on the black board. I am looking forward to getting out early and seeing them on the football field.

When I arrived in Jourdanton, I was not shocked to see the Indians taking up where they left off. There was not a lot of conditioning or slow paced drills going on. Coach Wayne Johnson had his squads rocking and rolling running through their playbook on the first day of practice. One thing that will be interesting is to see how the Indians adjust to what should be a tougher football district this year.

Last but not least, Charlotte Trojan-ville. Coach Jerry Dominguez and staff had the Trojans going through intense weight lifting while I was on hand. The Trojans are always the smaller group of athletes, but in all fairness the only 1A football program in the Brush Country. Just as Dominguez stated, he wants quality before quantity.

As far as volleyball is concerned, scrimmage action begins this weekend. Be sure to check out the volleyball news on page 3C to see where your favorite team plays. Season openers begin on Tuesday and it should be fun.

I think for fun, I should keep a mileage log this year to see how many I travel covering area teams. I can not complain though, because I love to travel across South Texas.

Last but not least, I have to wish a very special Happy Birthday to my wife, Briana. The big day is Friday and I love her a lot.

See you out and about in the Brush Country!