Ruff Riders Weekly Update: Versatility To Play Major Role
By: Alyssa Orange
Updated: April 11, 2012
Even before their first game against the Corpus Christi Hammerheads, the Ruff Riders knew that versatility was going to be key in order for them to have a successful season. With an 18 player roster, it's now more important than ever for players to be flexible and play where they are needed.
"You have to be in shape, first of all, and then you jut have to learn everything that your coaches implement, and when they put it in you have to learn it, and be able to, at any second, any moment, change your position and play it." says player Alex Joyner. 18-23
"We had to get the best athletes we could find that excelled at one position but could play another one if we needed him to, and that's been prevalent after week one already. We have a defensive lineman playing fullback, a fullback playing center, we have a receiver that may be an emergency quarterback, things like that. The nice thing about these guys, they are able to do it, and willing to do it because they know we win and lose as a team." adds Head Coach Joe Brannen. 34-38
"It's a very unique situation, it really is," says Rookie Diamond Weaver, "I'm just glad to be a part if it. Ive always been a very versatile player, but Ive been versatile in the return game and on defense, and here, I have a good chance of playing some offense." 54-59
Now off of a bye week, the Ruff Riders continue to prepare for the Bounty Bowl. Their exhibition game this weekend against the Corpus Christi Hammerheads in Snyder.
"You have to be in shape, first of all, and then you jut have to learn everything that your coaches implement, and when they put it in you have to learn it, and be able to, at any second, any moment, change your position and play it." says player Alex Joyner. 18-23
"We had to get the best athletes we could find that excelled at one position but could play another one if we needed him to, and that's been prevalent after week one already. We have a defensive lineman playing fullback, a fullback playing center, we have a receiver that may be an emergency quarterback, things like that. The nice thing about these guys, they are able to do it, and willing to do it because they know we win and lose as a team." adds Head Coach Joe Brannen. 34-38
"It's a very unique situation, it really is," says Rookie Diamond Weaver, "I'm just glad to be a part if it. Ive always been a very versatile player, but Ive been versatile in the return game and on defense, and here, I have a good chance of playing some offense." 54-59
Now off of a bye week, the Ruff Riders continue to prepare for the Bounty Bowl. Their exhibition game this weekend against the Corpus Christi Hammerheads in Snyder.
