Warriors’ coach building on teamwork

Richard Brian

First-year Western coach John Isola, center with ball, has preached teamwork and accountability to his squad. He will rely on a slew of players, including from left, Devin Wiedemann, Oliver Recarte, Terryon Marion, DeAngelo Dotson, Giovan Grant, Dante Warren and Rovann York.

By Christopher Drexel

Thursday, Aug. 28, 2008 | 2 a.m.

New Western coach John Isola said his program gained success in the past based on its talent. Now, he wants the wins to come as a result of teamwork and accountability.

That's why, from the day Isola was hired on Jan. 31, he has requested players attend offseason workouts regularly in hopes of having a more structured team.

"Western didn't really have any kind of offseason conditioning program and that's what I've tried to bring first," Isola said. "A lot of times they were going off their athleticism. We still have good athletes, but being a young team this year, we want to have accountability with the players."

Isola served as offensive coordinator at Desert Pines from 1999 to 2002 followed by four years as Shadow Ridge's offensive coordinator. Last season, he returned to Desert Pines before landing his first head coaching job.

Isola said the players have responded to his new approach, adding Western's summer camp hosted 33 players. Also, he estimates 45 varsity athletes have attended offseason workouts on a regular basis.

DeAngelo Dotson, who will likely be the team's featured back, likes Isola's philosophy.

"He's taught us how to play football better and gotten us better conditioned for games," Dotson said. "Everything is more energized."

Western only returns five starters and lost tailback Reggie Bullock, who rushed for 1,267 yards last season, to Las Vegas High.

To compensate for the loss, Isola plans to incorporate more tight ends into the offense, often using two at the same time.

One player expected to contribute is tight end Oliver Recarte, who Isola called one of the program's most dedicated.

Another is Dante Warren, who initially expected to play running back but has been converted to tight end in the offseason and did a solid job at camp, Isola said.

The two will provide targets for new quarterback Devin Weidemann, who Isola said has shown plenty of upside.

Isola believes the team can overcome any losses with a family-first mentality.

"The kids have to learn to be accountable for everything they do," Isola said. "They have to have pride in the program and make sure it's not just, 'I run fast, catch balls and hit hard on the field.' It’s getting good grades and showing up to practice because if you don’t, you won’t be on the field."

Christopher Drexel is a reporter for the Home News. He can be reached at 990-8929 or christopher.drexel@hbcpub.com..