Wrapping up a five-week spring football season, the Plano East Panthers are working to establish a new identity.

Under head coach Tony Benedetto, the team held its annual spring game last Friday, May 19, and was working toward a solid, disciplined team. It’s something he and the coaching staff have preached for the entire offseason.

“We want people to turn on the film and say these kids play hard and they played defense,” Benedetto said. “That’s why we have the film and document penalties is important. As a coach, you pride yourself on people saying your team is playing hard or disciplined. Whether you’re 10-0 or 5-5, that is what is most important.”

Throughout the spring, the team has worked with their new coaching staff to adjust to new expectations.

With a blend of several returning players and young players taking on more prominent roles, coach Benedetto was eager to see how they adapted to his scheme.

“I was pleased with how the spring went,” Benedetto said. “It was five weeks where we would end each practice with a scrimmage, running about 60-70 plays against each other. We would count penalties each day and wanted to see the number go down. We want to play fast and aggressive but also in control.”

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By Kyle Grondin • [email protected]