By Niqko Marshall

Correspondent

After not being able to compete during the fall or spring last school year, the Isle of Wight Academy Chargers are anxious to get back on the field again.

Things will be different for IWA as they head into the season. From an outside perspective, one might say they are a step behind after losing a season. But Coach Dale Chapman has been excited about the work that has been put in for the fall season regardless of IWA having last stepped on the field for a real game in 2019. Expectations don’t change, as the Chargers are still looking to be among the best this season.

“Our guys have been working hard, and they are excited,” Chapman said. “We always set high goals for ourselves, and our guys individually try to reach that for themselves as well. We have a pretty good tradition of winning here, and we are always looking to play in that last game of the season.”

The last time IWA played during the regular season, they finished with a record over .500. Chapman has stated that this group wants to improve on what that 2019 group did, and they have been attacking this season full throttle. The schedule this season will feature some tough opponents, and Chapman knows the team will have to be at its best every time they step on the field.

Trent Holland will be under center for the Chargers this season, as he takes the reins at quarterback. Seniors Kody Kosiorek, Jacob Chapman and J.T. Taylor will all be asked to contribute in significant ways for the Chargers this season on both sides of the ball.

“We are excited about the guys we have,” Chapman said. “We are expecting some good things from our seniors as well as some young guys we think can step in and step up. We have continued to work out, and we have had guys who have worked extremely hard. This camp has gone well.”

It goes without saying that the players and coaches were excited to get back at it for this year. However, Chapman believes the season will also be memorable for the families and fans who will be able to watch IWA compete this season.

“Those guys will be equally as excited as we are to see us compete again,” Chapman said. “Those atmospheres are special, seeing the moms, dads and fans there. They are all coming to watch us put a good product on the field, and we feel good about being able to do that.”