Underdogs prevail with new team outlook

Underdogs prevail with new team outlook

Cooper Woest, Staff Writer

 

The 2019 Dulaney Lions are off to a roaring start. The team has jumped out to an early record of 3-2 with wins against Randallstown, Pikesville, and Perry Hall and losses from Loyola Blakefield and Parkville. With four games left in the season the team looks to keep their winning record and avoid any losses to give themselves the best chance for the playoffs.

Head Coach Daron Reid believes that the Lions have a chance to make a run in the playoffs.

Part of the Lion’s success has come from talent at every grade level. Seniors R.J. Harrison and Christian Jackson continue to be leaders for the team. While juniors dominate both sides of the ball through running back Isaiah McCamie and defensive back Jumar Hines.

“This year I believe that this team is more dedicated and more determined about the things that we want to do, we’ve got a goal to be a playoff caliber team this year,” Hines said.

In six years, the Lions have only had two seasons with less than five wins. Most people outside of the Dulaney community choose to see the team as mediocre even though they have a consistently solid record.

In the final weeks of the season the Lions must face four opponents, Catonsville, Western Tech, Loch Raven and Dulaney’s rival, Towson on the final game of the season.

“So far, we have not surpassed the bar we set for success…With it still being early, we shall see how things shape up,” Reid said. “But stay tuned we are expecting some big things over the next couple of seasons.”

“It’s part of our mission statement to change the mindset of the student athletes in the building and potential student athletes in the community. Showing up and doing what’s expected of you at home, in the class, on field and in the weight room,” said Reid.

Reid urges that people come to games and support the team by creating a high energy environment.

“Programs that are winning programs don’t have a lot of issues with player commitment and community support. Strong winning programs, even in down years, have people in the stands,” Reid said. “Is asking staff, students and community members to come to three or five home games a lot to ask for?”

The 2019 Lions seem to have the missing ingredient from years past. If the team can keep their winning record intact and maintain their current level of play, the Lions will be a dangerous team entering the playoffs With a hungry team that continues to stay motivated Reid uses the phrase “What seems like asking a lot, is normal in programs that win” to create a sense of drive for everyone in the Dulaney community.