WINONA – Winona High will look to two Tigers to lead the team on defense during the fall football season.
Kaleb Hicks, a senior middle linebacker, is a three-year starter the Tigers have grown to depend on, Tigers Head Coach Joey Tompkins said.
“He’s doing really good. We’re looking for some leadership out of him,” said Tompkins. “He’s a good kid; you expect him there, and he’s there.”
J.T. Townsend, a senior running back and strong safety, is a third-year starter the Tigers will depend on from both sides of the ball, Tompkins said.
“He’s one of the starters coming back from last year. He started both ways – offensively and defensively,” said Tompkins. “He is really important to us. He’s one of the few guys that are going to play both ways – on offense and defense.”
Tompkins said Hicks led the team on tackles last year, earning him All-Division on defense.
Both Tigers have been having a good summer training with their teammates in the weight room in preparation for the upcoming season, Tompkins said.
Hicks has attended several camps over the summer, and this might be Townsend’s best summer yet.
Tompkins said he expects a higher level of performance during the upcoming season from both players compared to the 2016 season.
“I think [Hicks is] going to play inside linebacker and middle linebacker again this year,” said Tompkins. “He got better as the season went on last year. This year, I expect him to lead our defense.”
Tompkins continued with expectations of Townsend.
“We expect a whole lot out of him than we did in the past – not necessarily vocally, but he’s going to have to lead on the field.”
Both Tigers always are open to learn more about the game and how they can improve their skills, according to Tompkins.
“[Townsend] just does what he’s supposed to. He’s always got a good attitude. He’s pretty athletic,” said Tompkins. “He’s really easy to coach. He knows his role on our football team, and he does it pretty well.”
Tompkins echoed similar sentiments about Hicks.
“He’s easy to coach – a great kid and always has been. He tries to do what you ask,” said Tompkins. “He wants to be good. That’s a good trait to have as a football player.”
Both seniors plan to attend college next fall, Tompkins said.
