By JOSH FRYE
News Sportswriter
The Escambia County High football team keeps rolling along as the 2019 season approaches. The Blue Devils made another successful showing during the Future Ones 7-on-7 Tournament at Cottage Hill Christian School in Mobile.
“I was really happy with the way the guys played,” ECHS head coach Scott Mason said. “We have polishing up to do, and some things to work on in depth, but the guys made a solid showing and were competitive.”
According to Mason, heat and exhaustion combined to plague the Blue Devils at times as they played several back-to-back games.
ECHS defeated McIntosh, 24-12, and Citronelle, 18-16, during the first round of pool play during the tournament, which consisted of passing plays only.
Tough luck, however, began to set in for the Blue Devils as they fell to Millry High during the first round of tournament play, 24-20.
“Our quarterback, Jacob Hammac, threw very well,” said Mason. “We just had a run of bad luck during our tournament games against Citronelle and Millry.”
According to Mason, his team’s luck went from bad to worse as an Escambia pass was deflected right into the arms of an opposing player, resulting in a 30-24 setback.
Mason stressed that the guys played well and that all of the young players were able to see playing time.
“Our young guys impressed me,” said Mason. “It is important to play the young kids during these tournaments in order to get them much-needed experience for the regular season. They become more comfortable in game situations and will continue to improve from there.”
The plan for the Blue Devils at this point of summer training is simple, polish and improve before the regular season begins in a few short weeks.
The film room will be active with players observing good plays and mistakes alike. The team will then be able to take to the field and put into action what has been observed and taught.
Escambia County is set to host Northview High next Tuesday, July 23, for a 7-on-7 game, and the Devils’ preseason opener is slated for August 23 at T.R. Miller High in Brewton.