Ida Baker High senior Hans Felien fires through a footwork drill during a recent Bulldogs’ football practice. MICHAEL PISTELLA / mpistella@breezenewspapers.com

It’s that time of year once again where high school football programs get an early look at what they can expect to put out on the field in the upcoming season this fall.

Squads from around the county have hit the field for the short spring football season, with each team playing one game at the end of the month.

The Breeze is highlighting West Zone and other local teams throughout the spring to give fans an early look at their favorite teams. We asked each head coach a series of questions on what they expect from their program.

Ida Baker High School

Head Coach: Chuck Faucette

Ida Baker senior Decorey Cunningham works on a drill during a recent Bulldogs’ football practice. MICHAEL PISTELLA / mpistella@breezenewspapers.com

As a coach, what opportunities does Spring Football give you and your staff when it comes to assessment?

“Last year we didn’t have the spring to evaluate and develop our young players. This year we have the opportunity to do something to improve our team chemistry.”

How are you looking to improve the program from last season?

“We are looking to change the way we practice to get the best 11 on the field on both offense and defense. We might have a few going both ways this year.”

Biggest focus this upcoming season?

“Better production on offense.”

How will you take this time to work to build towards the fall?

“Mostly working on team chemistry. We had a problem with individualism last year so we will take the time in the spring to team build and bond together.”

Players to watch:

Zack Malpica – Linebacker, quarterback (Sr.)

Sabastian Grafmyre – Wide receiver, free safety (Sr.)

Caleb Staple – Running back, linebacker (Sr.)

Kenny Petit – Quarterback, safety, cornerback (Sr.)

Oasis High School

Head Coach: Jason Grain

2020 record: 2-9; won a playoff game via forfeit and then lost the next due to forfeit (COVID-19)

As a coach, what opportunities does Spring Football give you and your staff when it comes to assessment?

“This spring allows me as a new coach to learn who our student-athletes are. In addition, the coaching staff and myself are using this as a time to teach fundamentals and technique and build out our teaching progression.

How are you looking to improve the program from last season?

“I think I came into a program on good footing. Coach (Jeff) Love and Coach (Mack) Mitchell before him did an excellent job running the program and building a brand. I am looking to build on the foundation that was laid and make it a long term, sustainable and successful program.”

Biggest focus this upcoming season?

“Our focus is on getting better every day and to build a family atmosphere within the program.”

How will you take this time to work to build towards the fall?

“Every year begins a new program. We are using the work we are doing now as the foundation for the 2021 season.”

Players to watch:

Thomas Otto – Center, defensive tackle (Jr.)

Cameron Brown – Wide receiver, safety (So.)

Kaiden Stengel – Quarterback (Jr.)

Ryan Anderson – Guard, linebacker (Sr.)

— Connect with this reporter on Twitter: @haddad_cj

Spring Football Games

(All games 7 p.m.)

May 21

Cape Coral at Ida Baker

Port Charlotte at North Fort Myers

May 27

Oasis at Mariner

May 28

Sarasota at Bishop Verot

Island Coast at Dunbar