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Altamont Longhorns
Ben Felder didn't expect to coach Altamont this season. After obtaining his degree in biology, he accepted a position there to teach integrated science. Soon afterward, he began inquiring about potentially helping with the football program; he'd coached linebackers while living in South Carolina, and thought he could be of assistance.
Turns out, with former coach Anthony Wilcox wanting to relegate his responsibilities to defensive coordinator, Felder was needed in a much larger capacity.
"They offered me head coach, so I took it," Felder said laughing.
There is extensive work to be done for the first-year coach. The Longhorns were outmatched and outnumbered in every game last season en route to a winless 0-9 campaign in which they were outscored 339-52.
The first order of business, Felder said, is creating a buzz for participation across the community.
"I know at the end of the year last year, there were a lot of injuries," Felder said. "There was only about 17 boys on the varsity team. I want to make sure the numbers are there so we can compete in every game."
The Longhorns were placed in the northern region in the 1A classification, which features notorious powerhouse programs Duchesne and Rich. Felder understands the odds are stacked against Altamont, but he wants to introduce a competitive nature into program.
"To be competitive in every single game," Felder said when asked what the main objective for the season is. "At the beginning of every fourth quarter, I want to be able to look at the scoreboard and see we have a chance to win that game."
Assignment • 1A North
Last year • 0-9, 0-4 in league play; lost to Diamond Ranch, 45-0, in quarterfinals.
Key returners • Felder admittedly is unfamiliar with his troops while he transitions to Utah, which creates a massive question mark as to which players are expected to contribute. "I'm just now moving up here, I'm trying to get to know all the players and get some open workouts going," Felder said. "They're all farmers up here, ranchers. It's difficult to get them together."
Player to watch • Bodell Jessen is expected to call the shots at quarterback.
Biggest hole • Rylee Foy was a major influence, both defensively and offensively, for the past three seasons. Finding his replacement could create a headache.
Need to know • Altamont is currently riding a 15-game losing streak, certainly a statistic it would like to ditch to the side of the road. The situation appears to still be a work in process, but the only way left to climb is up. Expect the Longhorns to be run-oriented on offense and operate either in a 4-3 or 5-2 defensive front, depending on personnel.
Twitter: @trevorphibbs