For Cumberland County Jets Boys Head Coach Christian Goodwin, this off-season was not just about running drills or watching film. It was about growth.
Now entering his second season at the helm, Goodwin finally had the benefit of a full off-season to mold his program, develop his young core, and build on the foundation set last winter. Goodwin said he hopes to take the next steps this season with a year of experience behind him and his players.
“I liked the pieces that we had last year,” Goodwin said. “I just thought our biggest need in our program was to have some birthdays. That’s important in high school athletics.”
Goodwin said that extra year of maturity both physically and mentally could make a major difference for the Jets. Cumberland County finished 8-22 last season but showed flashes of promise during the holidays. The Jets won five of six towards New Year’s, including starting 2-0 in the district.
“I’m really proud of them,” Goodwin said. “Really like where we’re at offensively, and they’ve done a good job of kind of settling in and knowing what to expect.”
Goodwin said the player leadership has also emerged as a defining trait. The Jets return most of their team from last season, with the returning players stepping up into bigger roles. Goodwin said that has led the Jets to finding their voice in the locker room.
“That’s the key to a successful program,” Goodwin said. “This is their team and their opportunity.”
Goodwin said he spent the off-season working on physical development, improving offensive execution, and accountability on both ends of the floor. Goodwin said the early returns have encouraged him about what the future holds.
The Jets open their season November 18th against Wartburg Central.
