Of all the eclectic music played during a University of Tennessee at Chattanooga football practice – ranging from Creedence Clearwater Revival to Run-D.M.C. – the most appropriate tune isn’t on the playlist.
Then again, football players might not react too positively to Olivia Newton-John’s “Let’s Get Physical.” Still, it seems the perfect song title to associate with Rusty Wright’s first season as head coach.
Getting physical has been the message since the former Mocs player and assistant coach took the reins in January, and it has permeated throughout spring practice and preseason camp. And while all football coaches speak of wanting to be physical, for Wright and his Mocs it will be a way of life on the field, win or lose.
“For us to become what we want to be here, we have to become more physical in every aspect of the game,” Wright said. “And, really, that’s just effort and the want-to. If you don’t want it badly enough, we can find someone else who does.”
The message has hit home for most of the Mocs, including the nearly 40 transfers and freshmen on the roster. The 47 returning lettermen, who include 15 returning positional starters (17 counting kicker Victor Ulmo and punter Colin Brewer), have welcomed the newfound attention to toughness.