By John Goolsby, For the Tribune
IRONDALE-The Shades Valley Mounties faced off against Homewood, Helena, John Carroll, and Gardendale in the Hustle Up 7 on 7 tournament in Hoover this past Thursday.
The Mounties previously played in tournaments at Spain Park and at Bob Jones in Madison.
Returning senior quarterback Steve Brown, who accounted for 23 TDS and over 2,000 yards last year, believes 7 on 7 is an excellent opportunity to work on the passing game during the summer.
“Chemistry with the wide receivers is getting better and we have real depth at that position this year,” Brown said. “7 on 7 is about getting everyone reps so we can see who can do what.”
Senior All-State linebacker Ethan Johnson sees 7 on 7 as a benefit to the defensive unit also. “The defense is coming along well, but we still have a lot of room for improvement,” Johnson said. “This 7 on 7 tournament taught us a lot because we got to see the things we need to improve on.”
The Mounties, looking to improve on last year’s 5-4 record, open the season August 25 against Stanhope Elmore at Frank Nix Stadium.