BC’s Carlton adjusting to new teammates

[KFDM COOP]

BC’s Carlton adjusting to new teammates

Gabriel Pruett

The Orange Leader

BRIDGE CITY — When Patrick Carlton showed up during the first few days of Bridge City’s practices, he had a lot of learning to do.

There was the new playbook installed by new head coach Cris Stump.

Before Carlton could even worry about the football aspect of his senior season, he had to learn who many of his teammates were.

Carlton, who has been on the Cardinals’ varsity team since he was a sophomore, is the only returning starter for Bridge City this year.

Gone are the 32 seniors he battled with as a junior.

It is a new group and with the new additions brought an added responsibility to Carlton’s shoulders.

“From my sophomore year to my junior year I got used to seeing the same guys around,†Carlton said. “At first this year it was like ‘Whoa who is this on my team.’ So far I have handled it well.â€

So with the youth movement in full swing for the Cardinals, Carlton knew and Stump reminded him it was his job to be a leader.

“Coach told me leadership is not only vocal, you have to show your teammates how to do things,†Carlton added. “I think I have worked to do that. I have had some of the younger guys walk up and ask questions. I don’t mind that one bit because this is a team sport. I am here to help them.â€

Stump said he has been impressed with Carlton’s ability to adjust to his new role as a senior leader.

“It was certainly not a role he was used to over the last two years,†Stump added. “You can see day by day he steps into it more and more. There are different kinds of leaders and you don't make someone change their personality. He has become a little more vocal and he definitely works very hard every day.â€

Besides being a leader Carlton has a very important job with the Cardinals — working on both the offensive and defensive lines.

It is a job that seems to get less publicity than the skill positions which is just fine with Carlton.

“It’s a man’s position,†Carlton added. “I like the offensive side more and I like being one of the unknowns down there. I take pride in our whole offensive line and us doing things right.â€

Carlton and the Redbirds are preparing for this Friday’s road contest against the Lumberton Raiders, a team itching to make its first playoff appearance in school history.

“Lumberton has a lot coming back from last year and I think we can handle them,†Carlton said. “My expectations for our team are extremely high, maybe with the playoffs down the line. From what I have seen, I like our chances.â€

[cardinal81o7]

hes a beast

[Guest etbu]

hes a beast

Smart beast like his brohter at Etbu.  ;D