The nice thing about this season is we don't have to remind them. They already had a pretty good idea. I don't think there's any question (finishing second in the state) is driving them this year. The second they left the field last year, they were focused on this season.

We've seen them play three times. We know each other pretty well. It all boils down to who can handle the emotions of the game and who is more fundamentally sound.

Being in a game like this, there is a lot of pressure on these kids. For the most part, it was a ballgame.

We never get into it with each other. We might take a little jab at each other, but it's always in fun. We respect each other. Plus, usually the family get-togethers are at mom and dad's house, so if we did say something, they'd be the first ones to get on us.

Teaching in the district and a two-minute commute to practice had a lot to do with (leaving UA). I was living in Worthington and my kids were going to school there. It was an opportunity to start your own thing. You get to start all the traditions, pick the uniforms. Who wouldn't want to do that?

The good thing is we'll be in the same boat next year. That's what we said when we had our last huddle. Our goal is to come back and turn the tables and be on the good side next year.