Schmidt looks to carry on tradition at Brashear

By: HSSN Staff
Sunday, August 19, 2018 | 10:45 PM

For the first time in a decade, a new coach will man the sidelines for Brashear as Don Schmidt has taken over as head coach of the Bulls.

Schmidt might be new to the Brashear athletic program, however, he’s familiar with the players since he’s a teacher at Brashear.

On the field, Schmidt also is familiar to the City League since he was Allderdice’s head coach from 2004-08. Schmidt, who was away from football to spend time with family, replaces Rick Murphy, who went 61-43 in 10 seasons.

“I’m a City guy. I went to Carrick High School. I coached at Allderdice and I teach at Brashear,” Schmidt said.

“Brashear has always been one of those top-level programs. To me, to coach here is an honor. I’m excited to be a part of it and continue the tradition of being known as a City League powerhouse.”

Last season, the Bulls’ season came to a close after losing to Allderdice, 35-7, in the City League championship. The loss prevented Brashear from winning a fifth championship since 2007.

The Bulls (5-5, 3-2) lost six players to graduation and are primed for another run at a City League title.

Senior running backs Armar Bruce and Anthony Carrington return. They have similar size with Bruce at 5-10, 215 pounds and Carrington at 5-10, 225 pounds.

“(Carrington) doesn’t run like a bruiser. He’ll hit you, but he runs pretty quick and he can get lateral pretty easily,” Schmidt said.

“My goal is to hold onto the clock and run the ball. If you’re doing that, you’re winning football games.”

The Bulls return senior quarterback Keshawn Towsond and senior wide receivers Jayon Blair and Tra Palmer. Senior right tackle Eddie Banks-Hicks, who stands at 6-4, 275 pounds, will look to anchor the line.

On defense, Brashear will be led by Bruce at linebacker, as well as Blair and senior Matt Smith in the secondary.

As expected, the Bulls are utilizing the loss to Allderdice as motivation for this season. Brashear lost to University Prep in the City League championship in 2016.

“I got a chip on my shoulder. It hit me hard losing two years in a row. I’m just putting in work and trying to be a leader this year. I’m going to do things that I’m expected to do and win (title) No. 12 for us,” Blair said

“We need to stay focused and stay disciplined. We need to be disciplined in the things we do. We need to practice every day like we play. We got outplayed and outcoached.”

In the early going, Schmidt’s message to the Bulls about being disciplined seems to be registering. Schmidt believes discipline was one ingredient missing with last year’s team.

“When you come to a City League football game, you’re going to see kids get at it. You’re going to see athletes. You’re going to see hitting. But discipline can be the issue. These are tough kids,” Schmidt said.

“It takes discipline to make sure everyone is on the same page. I care about my players. I want them to not make stupid mistakes, and that goes for even in the classroom.”

Schedule

Coach: Don Schmidt

2017 record: 5-5, 3-2

All-time record: 253-168-8

Date, Opponent, Time

8.24, at Beaver, 7:30 p.m.

8.30, Perry*, 7 p.m.

9.6, at Carrick*, 7 p.m.

9.14, at Grove City, 7 p.m.

9.28, at Westinghouse*, 3:30 p.m.

10.4, University Prep*, 7 p.m.

10.11, Allderdice*, 7 p.m.

*City League Conference game

Andrew John is a freelance writer.

Tags: Brashear