By Thomas Sellers Jr.
Among all the changes entering the 2020 football season for the Munford Cougars, one has been a new head coach in Slade Calhoun.
But Calhoun has been around the program the past two seasons. With all the limitations and adjustments made around the state because of the global pandemic, the players are comfortable and familiar with Calhoun.
Calhoun is confident in his returning group on offense led by players like Jaxon O’Neal, Traveon Hawkins and junior Vic White. White said the 2020 Cougars will continue to rush the ball for success and take on all challenges including COVID-19.
“We’re still working on running, pounding the ball trying to get yards,” he said. “There hasn’t really been a big adjustment.
“We do have a young offensive line,” White added. “We (skills position players) have been doing a good job of leading and keeping them on the right track. I think it’s going to be good although they’re young.”
Although he is entering just his junior season, White said life has groomed him to be an on-the-field and emotion leader for his team.
“For me it’s been going well,” he said, the past few months. I’m pretty strong in keeping my faith in God. I just been maintaining my prayers and doing a good job of not worrying about it. I’ve been trusting Him throughout this process of COVID-19.”
With his spirit strong, White entered camp in good physical shape as well.
“I have been doing my best to stay in shape even though we couldn’t come up here and workout,” he noted. “I would workout at home.
“Mental toughness is my best toughness,” White continued. “Growing up I had a lot of people doubt me and talk down on me. That developed my mental toughness. That is where I am the strongest.
“My stepdad didn’t really like me and said a lot of harsh things. But it made me tougher and the person I am today. I don’t pander for admiration. I’m just me.”
Proving all doubters wrong, White said a loving, caring community was sent into his life to keep him on the right track.
“I’m big in my faith to God,” he said. “I just kept praying. I prayed for guidance. And that’s what happened. God put in my life my coaches, the teachers and the principal at my school. And most importantly Him.”
White is a part of the Resurrection Church in Munford team. He’s a part of the Munford High School community. And he’s bringing his not-so-secret weapon to the Cougar Football program.
“I’m going to continue to pray about us and pray for us,” he concluded. “I’m going to work hard because that has no choice but to pay off. So I’m going to continue to do that.”
