Coe Coach Tyler Staker sees positive during unusual spring football season

CEDAR RAPIDS – Coe football coach Tyler Staker remains focused on the positive this spring.

He spent about 30 full practices working with the Kohawks and led them in one game during a time normally reserved for no pads and run-through workouts. Staker and staff received a good gauge of players’ progress and evaluated what needs improved for the fall.

Unfortunately, the Kohawks didn’t face another opponent after their opener against Dubuque in an abbreviated American Rivers Conference spring slate.

“There are a lot of positives we can draw from,” Staker said. “It’s too bad we didn’t get a chance to play these last three weeks.”

Despite the successful efforts to control COVID-19 within its program, Coe’s opponents weren’t as fortunate, causing cancellations in the final three weeks including the expected home finale Friday against Loras. Simpson and Nebraska Wesleyan also had issues that prevented play.

“We did get a chance to play, although it wasn’t what we had hoped would be the case this spring,” Staker said. “We did get an opportunity to get on the field and compete. We did have the opportunity to practice and get better.”

Coe began testing in mid-February. Players and coaches were tested once a week and 30 players were selected to undergo rapid antigen tests closer to gameday. Staker estimated that more than 1,000 tests were conducted with all negative results.

“It’s truly remarkable what our guys have done this spring,” Staker said. “We haven’t had a positive test. I’m proud of our guys, because they’ve done everything we’ve asked them to do. Each week they’ve come back with negative results. They put themselves in a position to play.”

Of the 17 ARC football events – Buena Vista opted for controlled scrimmages instead of games – scheduled this spring, just seven of them were held. Wartburg failed to have a single contest. Loras and Central were the only teams to have multiple games.

Central was the only program to complete its schedule, beating Simpson and Nebraska Wesleyan and holding Senior Day on Saturday before hosting the Beavers.

Staker said the biggest result from this time together was the chance to develop to grow as a team and “football family” on the field. Younger players gained valuable experience. The extra time has allowed them to know their responsibilities, assignments, offensive and defensive schemes and build confidence.

“We saw some good things in our game and our practices,” Staker said. “We also saw some areas where we struggled, so those are just as important as the areas we are good at. We get to see our guys and see our personnel.”

The entire situation has become a learning experience for all. Staker emphasized the importance of appreciating opportunities and being grateful for what you have in the present, like the lasting memories and accomplishments the seniors have had as part of Coe football.

“The lesson that we learned this year is you never know if it’s your last game,” Staker said. “You can’t take anything for granted. Tomorrow’s not promised, so go make the most of today. It definitely rings true.”