CJFL: Predators searching for consistency this season

On Aug. 7 the under-23 Twin Cities Predators held their practice at Centennial Stadium, in Kitchener, and the players were put through rigorous drills and plays.  Head coach Tom Arnott, who has a track record for success, is hoping he can turn this squad around.

Arnott said he believes the Predators are a much better team, despite what last year’s 2-6 record may indicate.

“Last year the team learned a lot about themselves and played hard for their coach,” said Arnott.

“The kids are willing to learn and they’re taking each drill, piece of advice and play very serious today.”

Players treated Tuesday’s practice like an actual game – they were focused during snaps, kick-after-kick the kickers tested their range, there were some minor injuries and many of them sported their game-faces as they battled for a spot on the team.

However, the squad is still trying to find its offensive-identity and the coach is well aware that his players need to become more efficient on that end in order to compete.  While the offense has yet to come around, the Predator’s hope to rely on what they say is a strong and consistent defensive line.

First year kicker, Mark Urban a graduate of Conestoga College, said he wants to learn and gain experience during his first season.

“Well I found out that I will be backing up a great and experienced kicker and I’m anxious to help the team in any way possible.”  “Even though my goal was to start – and I was kinda of bummed that I was told I will be the backup – I look at it as an opportunity to learn from an amazing kicker.”

Urban said the one things his team must do is build trust.  With many new faces in the lineup, he said the players must learn to trust one another and finish plays.

Trust, is something the Waterloo based team will have to develop rather quickly, especially if they wish to mimic the success of two other Predators clubs.

Two Twin Cities Predators clubs will be competing for their respective league championships on Aug. 11.  The senior varsity Predators look to defend their Ontario Football Conference title against the Huronia Stallions and the junior team take on the Burlington Stampeders.