Often coaching changes can set a program back as the players and coach get used to each other, but in the case of Minford boys soccer the familiarity with new sideline boss Dave Gampp is abundant.
"In most cases a change like this would probably require us getting used to how the new system works but I've coached all of these guys for at least two years during my eight years coaching youth soccer," Gampp said. "It makes it easier because they know my traits and what I like and dislike.
Gampp worked as an assistant under former coach Theresa Havens last season and plans on tweaking a scheme that has kept the Falcons competitive in the SOC.
"I'm going to run basically the same scheme that we had last season except I might run more of a flat 4-4-2 and my wings will press up more defensively but most everything else will continue to be the same," Gampp said. "Where coach Havens and I differ is that I am a bit more concerned with the tactical side of things where she was great at getting the guys conditioned."
The Falcons finished second in the SOC last season with a 12-4 record behind Waverly and ahead of Wheelersburg. It was a senior-laden team that struggled against Waverly but earned a season split with Wheelersburg.
"We lost a lot of seniors from last season's squad but things in the conference are shaping up a lot like they were last season," Gampp said. "I think we match up favorably with Wheelersburg but it's Waverly's conference until someone can beat them. We will have to play a nearly perfect game to beat them."
Gamp will be leaning on his emotional leader midfielder Jake Blackburn and striker Chaffin Munion to keep his guys focused on finding that perfect game.
"Jake is a great player and a great leader for us and is the most dedicated guy on the team," the coach said. "Chaffin will have opportunities to make plays for us from the forward position."
The Falcons have seven seniors but also have eight sophomores that will be vying for playing time including Eli Shoemaker who started as a freshman on defense. Gampp hopes the combination of experience and youth will congeal enough to make the season goals attainable.
"We want to make a push to improve on how we did last year and try to win the SOC and also try to go far in the tournament," Gampp said. "If we rely on team play and don't lean on just one player we can control the middle of the field and I think that will lead to wins."
BOB STRICKLEY may be reached at (740) 353-3101 ext. 203 or
[email protected]