Winter weather greets athletes as practice gets underway (copy)
Even though the calendar says its still fall for another month or so, Monday was wet, cold and snowy with falling temperatures.
The weather was appropriate, however, as the high school winter sports season formally opened with practices in boys and girls basketball, boys and girls swimming, wrestling and rifle.
Don Williams has witnessed pretty much everything that can happen on the first legal day of practice as he enters his 40th season as Carmichaels varsity boys basketball coach.
Although he’s been at it for five decades, the first day never gets old for Williams.
“I still get excited,” said Williams.
He has maintained his opening day routine despite changing times.
“We still work on fundamentals and stress defense,” said Williams. “Society is different than it was 40, 30 years ago. But, I’ll keep doing it as long as I enjoy it and the kids are willing to play. I’m here to be a teacher.”
The Mikes have around 15 players ready to play with no seniors.
“We lost our first six players, but they are working very hard. I’m impressed,” said Williams.