Soddy Daisy Looking to Improve on Defense Heading Into New Season

August 10, 2015

Rick Nyman,

Soddy Daisy, TN-(WDEF) Soddy Daisy managed only one win in their district last season. In order for the Trojans to become a force in their new region this season, they’ll need to beef up the defense, and develop a new quarterback.

Soddy Daisy ended last season on a six game losing streak, and yet they averaged 30-points a game in those losses. So obvioulsy, the defense is getting a lot of attention.

Said head coach Justin Barnes,"We still have guys or a majority of our defense coming back. Eight returning starters on defense, so we are looking to be a lot better on that side."

Said safety Zachary Johnson,"Defense this year, the intensity is a lot better. Everybody is more focused. Everybody is realzing we’re going to have to really step up this year."

Former Marion County coach Troy Boeck will coach the Trojans defensive line and he’s leading the weight room workouts.

Said Barnes,"I’ve kind of let him take over our weight program. He did a fantastic job at Signal Mountain with that. I’m not going to mess with somebody who has done it for a long time, and has had that type of success."

Offensively, the Trojans will have to replace one of the area’s top quarterbacks in Hunter Maynor, who threw for around 3,000 yards last season. This year, Justin Cooke will go under center for Soddy Daisy.

Said Barnes,"He probably has a little bit better arm than Hunter. He’s a little more athletic. He can probably do a few more things."

Said Cooke,"I know I’ve got big shoes to fill. I’m just going to go out there and give it my best and do what I do."

Added Johnson,"I’ve grown up playing football with Justin. He has a heck of an arm. He has really surprised my this year. He knows what he needs to do, and he’s getting it done."