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New coach arrives, looks to revive Cedar Creek with preseason effort
CEDAR CREEK — A new era is on the horizon for Cedar Creek football, as former Copperas Cove offensive coordinator Jared Shaw takes over as head coach and athletic director.
Shaw arrives eager to reverse the Eagles’ fortunes after the team went three straight seasons without a win.
“Everywhere I’ve been in my career has been a challenge, and I take pride in that,” Shaw said. “I’m very appreciative of the leadership team, and from the kids to the coaches, everyone has been working really hard. We’re just excited to get to work. We have a great group of kids and coaches, so at the end of the day, we’re looking forward to it.”
Shaw’s offensive mindset will be a welcome addition for a program that was shut out in all but three contests last season. Yet despite
his background on offense, he considers himself a “defensive-minded coach at heart,” stressing the need for a physical style of play and a simplified scheme to help players run with confidence.
“I tell people all the time, I love offensive football, but there’s nothing like a fast defense flying around with bad intentions,” Shaw added. “The biggest thing for me is being physical at the point of attack, controlling the line of scrimmage and simplifying the game plan so the kids can play fast and with confidence.”
Much of the team’s rebuilding effort has already begun in the weight room, where Shaw implemented changes to training sessions. According to the district, he empowers his coaching staff to take ownership of different stations and encourages the players with high-energy workouts.
“Every single day I talk to the kids about attacking the racks and attacking the tracks,” Shaw said. “One thing we’ve done is empower coaches in the weight room by giving them the tools to facilitate different portions of the workout. Each coach is in charge of a station, and the energy has been incredible. The coaches are excited, the kids are excited — and they’re having fun.”
Although there are months to go before kickoff, Shaw’s emphasis on discipline, fundamentals and enthusiasm has already made an impact, according to staff.
The next step for the Eagles is carrying that momentum into the fall, when they hope to halt their losing streak and start a new chapter for Cedar Creek football.
