CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — The St. John Paul II Centurions started off last season well in non-district play.
But they compete in a tough Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools, or TAPPS, district. It includes San Antonio Holy Cross, who went to the state finals last year.
The Centurions have five starters coming back--all playing on both sides of the ball.
John Paul II Head Football Coach Roland Ramirez said they are trying to fill spots, because of a lack of depth. He said scrimmages help them find the right players to fill those roles since you get to play against bigger and faster competition.
As they dealt with injuries last season, Ramirez said his players were up to the challenge.
"Kids handled it well. Some kids had to step up," Ramirez said. "So, a lot of those kids that stepped up are now starters this year and will get action on both ways."
Ramirez said what stood out about those players was how coachable they were. He explained that scrimmages are a good test for them--especially for their inexperienced players.
John Paul II will play their first game against St. Anthony on August 30.