Jacob Suever is an Arizona State University journalism student covering McClintock High School this semester.

After a 3-6 season in which McClintock placed fifth of seven in the 5A Northeast Valley section, the Chargers look to make big changes. One already has taken place. 

In February, McClintock announced the hiring of Mike Fell, a veteran coach who spent a large part of his career in Ohio, where he is a member of the Ohio High School Coaches Football Association (OHSFCA) Hall of Fame.

Fell has been with the team since spring and says the future is bright. 

“We’re used to each other, the kids know what they’re doing,'' he said. "We’ve gotten lots of reps.”

First-year assistant coach Steven Labissiere also has a great attitude as the team enters the heart of the season. 

“We have a new offense and a new defense, and we’ve been able to feel each other out,” Labissiere said. “Our first win was tough, but we made it tough. The kids are working hard and getting reps.”

With 17 seniors, many players work extra hard for a season filled with success, as many seniors do in their final year. 

When asked about strategies, Fell said the offense would revolve around senior quarterback and second-year starter Peter Clark. 

“He had a great first game, leading rusher, and he threw for 200 yards,” Fell said. “I thought he did an outstanding job leadership wise.”

Fell also mentioned senior running back Daniel Crawford as a team leader.

“We’re gonna flip the switch this year,'' Crawford said. "Our offense is versatile, we can do both (run and pass) very well.”

Receiver Avaunt Ortiz also is positioned to make an impact. Ortiz is highly regarded for his speed, having won four gold medals in track, Fell said.

“Ortiz is the fastest young man in the state, he’s a real threat out there,” Fell said.

McClintock’s roster also features a lot of young talent, including freshman receiver Khalil Bender, sophomore receiver Amarr Baker and sophomore running back Kahmar Hawkins. The defense features young talent as well, such as sophomore defensive end Julius Holquin and freshman cornerback Jeremiah Paet.

Perhaps one of the more interesting players to watch is receiver Dwight Waite. Waite was forced to take a reduced role in the Chargers’ second game against West Point for personal reasons, but all signs indicate he will be ready for the Chargers’ third game of the season against Gilbert.