Holly High emphasizes execution

Coach Sylvester Hemphill was right in the middle of his offensive linemen, teaching them technique and encouraging them.

It was the first week of high school football practice with the temperature in the mid-90s.

“The small things can’t be overlooked,” said Hemphill, starting his third season as head coach of the Holly Springs Hawks. “We want to get as detailed as possible.

“Linemen’s footwork is crucial — not crossing over when stepping.” The Hawks are preparing for their season-opener Friday, Aug. 27, at Northside High School in Shelby.

“As always, you want more kids,” Hemphill said.

About 30 were working hard after school on Thursday of last week.

“It may be wishful thinking,but we’d like to get the number up to maybe 45,” he said. “With school started, we’re walking the halls and seeing if kids are interested.

“We want to try to get the roster number up and have some quality depth. We want to have guys who can step in and fill some shoes if someone goes down.”

Assistant coach Clifford Brown was busy working with the quarterbacks, running backs and receivers last week.

“Again, it’s the little things there, too — route running and correct depth when the quarterback drops back,” Hemphill said.

It all adds up to what he hopes is better execution this season.

“We want to make sure everybody is going to the right spots,” Hemphill said. “They need a clear understanding of their jobs.

“With my kids, I want to make sure they can tell me specifically what their job is (on each play). I want them to have a clear understanding of what they’re supposed to be doing. Then it’s all about execution.”

The Hawks finished 1-8 last season. Hemphill lost eight seniors off that team, including quarterback Dylan King.

“We won’t really be changing a lot from a schematic standpoint, offensively or defensively,” he said. “We will pretty much look the same.

“It all comes down to executing at a high level. That’s what we need to see in order to be successful.” After the opener, Holly High travels to Ripley September 3, hosts Caledonia September 10 at Sam Coopwood Park, visits J.Z. George September 17 and hosts Hatley September 24.

Region 2-3A games begin October 1 when the Hawks host Independence. An open date follows.

Then comes three straight district contests — October 15 at Rosa Fort, October 22 at home versus Byhalia and October 29 at home against North Panola.

“I feel good about this group of guys and what they can potentially do,” Coach Hemphill said. “We will find out soon.”