The Bastrop Bears have a new set of challenges.
There is a new district, a new region and a new “swagga-tude.”
“I think our kids feel real confident after the offseason we had,” said head coach Gerald Perry. “We are starting to work on the different opponents we will play and we’ll start showing that a little throughout the spring.”
Perry said that this spring will feature a lot of competition because as he puts it, “no one has a starting job yet.”
However, for the first time under Perry, Bastrop enters spring practice as the reigning district champions.
They have gone from worst-to-first and are entering a district where they are expected to compete with Hendrickson for the district title.
It’s been a long time since Bastrop has been mentioned in a district title race before two-a-days have even started.
The Bears will have to address some key positions, such as defensive back and wide receiver.
Special teams will also be addressed. Bastrop will have to replace kicker Lee McMillan.
Bastrop will have their first spring practice in pads Thursday afternoon beginning at 4 p.m. All practices are open to the public.

District 16-4A notes

Hendrickson’s Williams named a U.S. Army All-American Team

In its two years in District 25-5A, the Bastrop Bears have never faced a running back like they will in the fall when the Bears take on Hendrickson and Kenny Williams in  District 16-4A.
It was announced on Monday, Williams will play in the U.S. Army All-American Bowl in 2011.
He has rushed for 3,395 yards and has scored 20 touchdowns in two years.
Williams has verbally committed to Texas Tech.
— Michael Adams

SCHEDULE

Here is the full schedule for Bastrop’s spring practice. All practices are from 4-6 p.m. unless otherwise noted and are free to the public:

At Erhard Field
Today; Friday, May 7; Monday, May 10; Tuesday, May 11; Wednesday, May 12; Thursday, May 14; Monday, May 17; Tuesday, May 18; Wednesday, May 19; Thursday, May 20; Friday, May 21
— Michael Adams

Staff photo by Michael Adams/ Quarterbacks Josiah Monroe, left, and Dillon Becker listens to instructions from coach Chris Olson Tuesday during the first day of spring practice at Bastrop High School.