Before a packed audience Thursday evening, McKenzie High School's

new Head Football Coach/Athletic Director was introduced, and all felt encouraged for the upcoming season.

Principal Randy Williams introduced Coach Shane Smothers, just in from Russellville

High School, in Franklin County.

&uot;I'm extremely excited to be here, Smothers said. &uot;Many people have asked me why I would want to leave Russellville, when they will probably go the distance this year as 5A State Champions, and I told them, I am going to bring McKenzie to the playoffs!&uot;

Smothers, who will turn 27 on June 12, graduated from Walker County High School in Jasper, where he played football before going

on to the University of North Alabama to play college ball.

Married with three sons, ages six, four and eight-months, Smothers has stayed this week in the field house at McKenzie.

&uot;I'm proud to say that I have rented a house now and am moved in - the people here are so friendly, and I am here to say, that is what will be the selling point with my wife,&uot; Smothers said.

The new coach said his program is simple.

&uot;We just have to overcome the intangibles - such as attitudes - the guys have got to want to win, and show it in their dedication,&uot; he said. &uot;Anything can come up, like, if it is raining buckets, we need to change gears, and play good rainy-weather football.&uot;

Smothers asked for the parents to support him in his efforts, saying it will take their help to instill solid work ethics in the team.

&uot;Good work ethics will start in the weight room, and there will be no excuses – the team has got to be willing to do what it takes,&uot; he said. &uot;Parents, let us do the coaching, and pick up your part by supporting the kids – and as far as the playoffs are concerned, buy your tickets now!&uot;