Will Cook County News

By Claude Martinez. Updated 7/18/24 at 7:42 A.M.

Last year, the Harold L. Richards Bulldogs fell short In the second round of the IHSA 6A State Tournament; where they lost 52 to 51 vs Glenwood. This summer the Bulldogs have been pushing themselves to the limits to get over the hump. Head Coach Tony Sheehan explains what they need to do.

“That loss hurt them, hurt us. You Know, you lose by one, going for two in overtime, in a playoff game,… it’s kind of left a bad taste in our mouths.” “We’ve been working real hard all offseason, and in the summer, and we’ll see what happens come the season.”

All-state, and North Dakota State University commit, running back Myles Mitchell vividly remembers that season ending play.

“It was an amazingly tough loss.” “I still think about it to this day. You know, the same play and the same moment.” “I’m working as hard as I can to prevent that from happening again and I know the rest of these guys are on the same page as me” stated Mitchell.

Mitchell’s ability to play all three sides of the ball makes him a natural born leader and a competitor. “You are only as strong as your weakest link. I feel like… I got to get these guys riled up, got to get these guys fired up.”

Last season Richards was missing one of their top dogs due to an injury. Now a senior, Chase Dryier has fully recovered and is putting in double the work.

“Last year I tore my ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) in the second game of the season. So ever since then, I’ve had a vengeance. I just want to play football.” “Coaches are just trying to get us out of our comfortable shells.” “I always believe in ‘if you’re comfortable, you’re not doing something right’” said Dryier.

Sheehan added about Dryier. “He was a big part that we were missing kind of all year. He’s a real physical linebacker, very smart, tough kid…”

With the season less than a month and a half away, Sheehan voices Richards’ expectations. “A couple years ago, before Covid, we had two great teams and then Covid hit. We’re just trying to get back up on the top of the mountain.” “We’re working hard and the kids work hard, and we love our kids.”

Richards first game will be on the road vs Crete-Monee on August 30th at 6:30 P.M.

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Special thank you to Head Coach Tony Sheehan.