Spy Ponders Lead the Way

After a double-session in mid-90 degree heat, Arlington High School football players stayed on the field Tuesday to practice with the next generation of Spy Ponders.

"I didn't hear one complaint," Arlington High football coach Dan Hirsch said.

The high school's 59 players led more than 100 Arlington Pop Warner players, ages 7-12, through a series of drills and lessons. High school cheerleaders also coached their younger counterparts.

Arlington tri-captain Joe Keefe, a running back and linebacker, said the clinic, which ended with a barbecue, brought back memories.

"I remember being in Pop Warner and looking up to the high school players," said Keefe, who started playing football in second grade.

Arlington's Pop Warner program has about 125 players and another 50 cheerleaders, according to its president, Paul Cahill.

"I love the interaction between the different age groups," Cahill said of the clinic, now in its third year. "All the Pop Warner kids are preparing to play high school football; that's their goal, and I think days like this help them reach that goal."

Thomas Houston, a 12-year-old signal caller, said he hopes to start at quarterback for the Spy Ponders.

"It's fun to see how they practice," he said, "how I might practice when I go to the high school."

Arlington Pop Warner started a new team this year for 11-14 year olds. The team, which has already begun practicing, is still looking for players. For more information go to the team's website or e-mail Cahill at pondersapw@gmail.com.

Cahill said it's been rewarding to see players come up through the system.

"It's a good feeling," he said. "You know on Thanksgiving, you were there for their very first day in Pop Warner and their very last day at the high school. It's kind of bittersweet."