Veterans take freshmen under their wings
With all the talk this year revolving around the Buffs’ younger players, football fans often forget the importance of experience.
With just a few days left before the Rocky Mountain Showdown, seniors are both comfortable with their leadership roles and confident in their young teammates.
Senior captain and inside linebacker Jordon Dizon is one of the veteran Buffs this season with three years under his belt. He has no doubts in himself and his fellow captains.
“With experience comes leadership.” Dizon said. “We’re making sure everyone is in place and doing the right thing.”
Dizon is thrilled with how far his underclassmen counterparts have come.
“They’re mature as hell,” he said. “It’s their time to step up and they’ve taken the bull by its horns.”
Senior tailback Hugh Charles agreed. The 17 seniors on this year’s roster are doing their best to help coach the 47 freshmen on the squad.
“We as seniors have to build them up,” Charles said.
Most of the team has two years or less in the program and cannot compare second-year head coach Dan Hawkins with prior coach Gary Barnett. Those who have played under both see a noticeable difference in the attitude of the team.
“With Barnett, we were comfortable in our second year,” Charles said. “In Hawk’s second year, we’re more confident, more of a team.”
Even after a disastrous 2-10 record last season, Tyler Polumbus, senior offensive lineman, is optimistic with Hawkins’ style.
“It’s like night and day compared to last year,” Polumbus said. “Everyone is looking good in camp, and Hawk has been making sure the young guys have everything down.”
Much like Dizon, Polumbus is more than happy to hold the leadership role. Yet, he knows the freshmen and sophomores must grow up quickly come game-day.
“It’s not just me by any means,” he said. “Everyone has to step up.”
With the state of Colorado gearing up for the CU vs. CSU showdown, the seniors believe the team is prepared.
“These guys are ready,” Charles said. “They have to be.”
Contact Campus Press staff writer Derek Schimmel at derek.schimmel@thecampuspress.com
