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American Leadership Academy Eagles
With more athletes out for football and participation in a year-round weight program, summer drills and 7-on-7 competition, American Leadership Academy's second-year coach, Billy Nixon, is optimistic that the Eagles can improve. That won't be easy in difficult Class 2A North, but ALA could be a surprise.
"If our boys play to our potential, we could have a .500 season," said Nixon. "We are getting better and the commitment is there."
Indeed, the Eagles have 31 players listed on their varsity and junior varsity rosters and another 18 out for freshman ball. The team relied on mostly freshmen and sophomores a year ago, so with an extra year of experience, the Eagles could be improved. Still, ALA only has five seniors on its roster.
Last year's record • 1-8
Key returners • Junior quarterback Dallen Short; tight end and defensive end Taylor Negus; middle linebacker Daniel Henstra, and sophomore returning starting running back and middle linebacker Owen Huff.
Need to know • American Leadership Academy is searching for its first winning season.