Kackert praises defense
University of New Hampshire running back Chad Kackert (pictured) is the latest contributor to the Colonial Athletic Association's spring football blog. Kackert's entry appears below:
After four years of experiencing the brutal anticipation for the snow to stop falling, the sun to start shining, or anything that resembled warmth at all, I have recognized a positive. Besides the curtailed school days due to snow and ice, while most teams across the country are padding it up and knocking heads, we have the opportunity to train, prepare, and unite even further. As these days indoors extend all the way into early April, the Wildcats are improving with speed and agility skills, challenging each other in the weight room, and competing in all types of strength and speed contests. The true character of the Blue and White shows in the dead of winter. It's the New Hampshire way.
Now, looking back after the strain through winter and the first week of Spring Practice, we can see that the hard work is paying off. The competition continues into the Spring as Coach McDonnell implements scoring into each thud, pass game, or one-on-one drill. The boys really buy into the competition. It is a chance for young guys to show what they've got and for the older 'Cats to maintain their position.
Personally, I have been impressed with the way the defense has been flying around. They are making plays on the ball with more speed than I have seen in my four years. The defensive front is showing tenacity in each snap, giving our young offensive line a good chance to get some real experience.
Offensively, we are taking advantage of our time in the meeting rooms and putting it into action on the practice field. The experienced 'Cats are really giving the younger guys a foot forward with their guidance and leadership. The skill positions are running and catching well and the young line is making progress that is very evident.
Each day is a new day and we are doing our best to leave it all on the field, one stride ahead of where we left it the previous day. The sun is out, the snow is gone, and the 'Cats are flying around. Just as it was today, yesterday, and the day to come, IT'S A GREAT TO BE ALIVE AND BE A WILDCAT!
Chad Kackert
UNH Football #27
