Brice is one of only two seniors on the team, which boasts a small, 20-man roster.
Brice is confident he can lead the Silent Warriors.
“Demetric Snider and Lorenzo Burrow were my two great leaders,” Brice said. “They did an excellent job leading our team. I looked up at them. Both of them are going to play college football at Gallaudet University in Washington DC. I am ready to take over and leading this younger football team. I feel confident and motivate my team.”
With just five juniors and seniors on the team, younger players will be expected to step up in key positions.
Brice has seen the younger player’s work ethic already and is optimistic.
“I am really impressed of our young boys who really worked hard since school started two weeks ago,” Brice said. “I can see that we developed good bond with our younger players.”
ASD plays a tough schedule with many long away trips to other deaf high schools in the country.
Trips to Indiana and the District of Columbia can make young players lose focus, but Brice has a plan.
“I will be focusing on my own game and chat with god to give me confidence in my heart,” Brice said. “I think all the games are tough. We’re focused on one game at a time.”
The pressure is on for every player on the team to stay healthy.
With so few players, almost all will be expected to play multiple positions and both sides of the ball.
Injuries are a concern on coaches’ and players’ minds alike.
“It’s already a challenge having only 18 players and if we can get through the season, barring any injuries, we’ll be fine,” Brice said. “I am up for the challenge. I will do anything coaches ask me to do.”
The 6-foot-2-inch, 310 pound lineman was humbled by the confidence his coaches placed on him to rally the Silent Warriors this season.
He said he hopes to make them proud.
“Coach Kulick had chosen me because I am a senior and the only returning player from last year’s squad,” Brice said. “I will do my best to be positive leader on and off the field.”
Expectations are high for ASD in 2012. Coming off an 8-2 season with a team record 440 points is tough with such limited, young personnel.
Brice remains hopeful and confident.
“I hope we will continue to have a good football season with younger players,” Brice said. “I believe we will be successful at the end of the football season.”
