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August 29, 2013
DRC Football
DENTON
Atkinson intrigued by Maxwell’s potential By Patrick Hayslip Staff Writer
Denton head coach Kevin Atkinson doesn’t need senior defensive lineman Aaron Maxwell to lead the Broncos in tackles this season. Denton has a host of linebackers Atkinson would like to see draw the attention and acclaim. For that to happen, Denton needs Maxwell to focus on using his physical tools to anchor the Broncos defensive front and occupy blockers, allowing Denton’s linebackers to make plays. Maxwell’s role will be integral to the Broncos’ prospects this season, as will his ability to accept it and set the tone for team. “Our big theme this year is, ‘Sacrifice Me for We,’� Atkinson said. “A lot of kids grow up where they freelance and they are good athletically, so they just go make plays. One of my biggest goals when they leave this program is that if I help this player get what he wants, then I’m going
to get what I want, plus more. But if I worry about myself first, then I’m going to come up short every time. If I’m playing nose tackle, my commitment is to help our linebackers become the leading tacklers in the district because I’m tying up double teams every single snap.� What Atkinson means by freelancing is a player abandoning his responsibility in pursuit of a game-changing play. For Maxwell, it’s not as complicated as living up to the team’s standards. To him, it boils down to the basics of human nature. “The big thing is learning how not to be selfish,� Maxwell said. “We are all born selfish, but with the linebackers I have to protect, it’s more than work ethic. It’s about bond. I’m not going to take on double and triple teams for somebody I don’t like. It’s about teamwork and about having a bond with each other.� See MAXWELL on 43
Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton
Denton head coach Kevin Atkinson believes defensive lineman Aaron Maxwell has the potential to be an impact player. He also wants Maxwell to help set the tone for a team-first approach he believes is vital to the Broncos’ hopes this fall.
Denton High School – Go Broncos!
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