Each team in any sport can say it had a season to forget, whether it didn’t live up to expectations or everything seemed to go wrong. And teams like the West Junior High Warhawks and new head coach, Mike Gillman are all about recovery the following season.

Warhawk football suffered through a 1-8 record last season, but with a new coach and a promising freshman class, the Warhawks are ready to forget about last year’s struggles.

Gillman, who played for Haskell Indian Nations University, has big hopes and a new attitude that has those at West anticipating the Warhawks’ first game.

“This season I’m working on the kids’ character just as much as their skills on the field,” Gillman said. “This game is a teacher of character if anything, and I feel that respect for themselves and for others off the field should come before what goes on out here on it.”

As for the team’s expectations, they are simple. A turnaround, a complete status makeover and a shot at winning. And what better statement for the Warhawks to make than to win the city championship this season.

“You can tell it’s what the kids are after,” Gillman said. “To have bragging rights and the status of champions for a whole year over other kids they know from other schools throughout town.”

While plans to take the city championship are hopeful, the Warhawks are going to need skill as well as heart to make a serious run. And while some teams show off their running backs or quarterbacks, the Warhawks will call on the big boys on the front lines this season.

“I’m excited to see my offensive linemen in action this season,” Gillman said. “They work hard every day at practice, and they have skills to show for it.”

One of those linemen, freshman Zach Saunders, according to Gillman is one to watch for this season.

“Not only is he a good athlete, but he’s a great kid,” Gillman said. “He’s got the skills. I expect great things from him this season, and the best part is I know he’ll come through.”

Gillman also will look for one of his smallest linemen, Tucker Fritzel, to come through this season. While he seems small, Gillman said his agility and skill at center and linebacker are rare.

“He’s a small kid for the position he’s playing,” Gillman said. “But the fact that he loves doing it and that he does a great job at it is enough for any of us.”

West opens its season Aug. 30 at California Trail.