A lot has happened since our disappointing defeat in the Northern Championship game last year. We have made some moves within the coaching staff and player positions. The biggest changes to our coaching staff involve the WR's and Oline. Coach Joe Williams has left the defensive side of the ball to help or WR's/TE's. I am extremely confident in his abilities to transition and make a big impact with that group. The players have already started to respond and can't wait for their opportunity to shine. Coach Timothy Smart of "Pensacola Power" legend has added his exceptional coaching talents in aide to our already proven offensive line. He has set their goals high and continues to push them toward perfection. All of the complaints about the extra sprints and sore muscles are things only a football coach can truly appreciate.

As usual we had a GREAT turnout during tryouts this year. I feel as though we picked up some excellent talent. The burning question is, "Who are the rookies to look out for?" I am sure there are several that will get significant playing time. Problem is a lot of athletes look like football players in the gym; we will have to wait and see what happens when we get outside and get physical. We had some veterans decide to hang up their cleats and I will miss them all dearly. Of course once you are a DC Diva you always bleed burgundy and gold. They are family and always welcome at any of our functions.

Our team is really growing. As of right now we are 72 players strong and getting great participation at our workouts. The facilities provided by the front office have been the difference. Working with Velocity Sports has been an absolute joy. Their equipment is top notch and we have all of the space we need to spread out and really work on our schemes. Although at first I was hesitant about working with a physical trainer, I have already started to see changes in attitude and overall fitness. We planned to be even faster on the field this year and the players are putting in the work to make that happen.

Right now the players are going twice a week including a class room session. They are focusing on learning the systems, and getting to know each other. We have taken our first written test with mixed results. Needless to say I am looking forward to the next one. The team is starting to take shape and leaders are emerging. Even though our staff is going into its 6th season, each year and each team is very different. This team is no exception. We seem to have a great mix of peer to peer teaching, team bonding, and tenacity. I am thrilled at how much we have learned so far and how we have grown together. The time to put in the hard work is now. Earn each yard, each inch, and all of the respect. The veterans know you can't wait until the season to turn it on. Turn it on now. Work hard and earn your right to win ball games. That's the essence of Diva Football.

This is my favorite time of the season. We are creating the bonds that make teammates sacrifice for each other. Friendships are forming. Egos are being checked. And slowly a coherent aggressive team is starting to show its face. We are setting the stage for players to count on one another and build a trust that will sustain them through the entire season. Personally my biggest thrill is helping to forge such a team. Just 3 months ago, for many rookies, their reality now was just a dream. I love tinkering with the offense, and timing up the defense. Finding out who really WANTS to win and who is just giving me lip service. It's easier to tell than you think. The great teams, of any sport, have leaders that turn those players into productive teammates – they are cultivated into believers or discarded. Are we one of those teams? I guess time will tell.

Ezra Cooper, Head Coach