The University of Charleston football team is in a fortunate position this season. For the most part, the Golden Eagles return a good deal of experience at several key positions.
But, as is always possible over the course of a season, only one play can lead to throwing someone new into a bigger role than he has ever had before. It was something the injury-plagued Golden Eagles experienced quite a lot last season. But coach Pat Kirkland said he's been happy with the way that the team's newcomers and younger players have approached camp this season.
"When you have those transfers or first-year guys, a lot of these first few days can tend to just be like playing follow the leader," Kirkland said. "Did they make some mistakes early on? Absolutely, but that's to be expected the first few days when you're new. But I've been really happy with the way they have come out and have played with a ton of effort and that's a great sign for them."
UC brought in a number of talented players this season, and Kirkland has been especially impressed by the way that a handful have emerged as potential role players heading into 2017.
On the offensive line, there are a handful of players that Kirkland believes are ready to come right in and provide some always-needed depth up front. He was high on freshman Miles Cobb and junior college transfer Deya Mhiesen during the spring. He pointed out speedy wide receiver Tyreik McAllister as a skill-position player who could grow into a role as a playmaker in the offense.
For now, it's about giving those players an opportunity to grow into the roles they'll be looking to play and seeing who will be ready when the season begins Sept. 2 at West Virginia State.
"We brought in those guys at positions where we know we are going to want and need a lot of depth," Kirkland said. "There are some guys that we expect to see on the football field a lot this year because we're always wanting to put the best 11 out on the field. Everyone always has to be ready for when their opportunity comes."
And it has certainly been beneficial for the younger players that the Golden Eagles have veterans who have been around for a few years ahead of them on the depth chart. Kirkland spoke highly of the way, through the first two weeks of training camp, the upperclassmen have been quick to take the inexperienced players under their wing and show them what is expected of them.
Having that type of leadership and those players setting the right example will only help as the Golden Eagles look to turn things around from last season's disappointing 3-8 finish.
"It's a good thing because they're looking at a group of juniors and seniors that have really just stepped up and have practiced with enthusiasm. Watching them, they realize that you can't just show up and expect to get what you want," Kirkland said. "This is how you develop a program. These young guys grow in the weight room and the offseason and they get the chance to learn from guys who have been around.
"It shows them how things are done, and it can lay the foundation for a bright future."
Contact Michael Carvelli at 304-348-4810 or michael.carvelli@wvgazettemail.com. Follow him on Twitter @carvelli3.