Dear Eagle Fans,

As we enter our second year here at East Prairie, I know there are great expectations for this program. We know they exist from the outside, but what is important to know is we have huge expectations, just like you. Let me assure you, this team believes! As a team, we truly feel we took some huge steps toward the end of the 2007-08 season, and made some huge strides in our off-season program. We had several of our seniors and underclassman getting bigger, faster, and stronger. With these players we have come up with our new saying for the 2008-09 season: "COUNT ON ME"! Think about it. If every player, coach, parent, and fan had this type of attitude, we could all count on each other.

I have to take a minute to talk about a few groups of people. First of all, our seniors. They were freshman when I first coached them. I left for a couple of years and came back. When I first coached them, they bought into our team philosophy immediately. They know that my philosophy has not changed and they have continued to make that clear. They have been the biggest reason that the players under them have been such an impact to our program. These seniors are the reason we have shown progress. It might not be seen in our record, but on the field we have seen huge improvements. No matter how much talent a team has, it is the group that acts as a team that will win. I believe we have a group of selfless leaders who will stop at nothing to act in the best interest of the team. What more can a coach ask for?

Secondly, I want to talk about our underclassman. In this business, what is the most rewarding is coming across a group of players that have as much passion for the game as you. During the off season, we have been fortunate enough to find young men who want to be a part of something special-turning a program around. They want to be a part of something bigger than themselves. They fear nothing! Hey, if you want a boost of energy, hang around these kids.

Thirdly, I have been a part of some of the greatest coaches that a person can be around. I want to say thanks to those that are no longer with our program. You have really been a huge help and if I can ever be of help, please feel free to contact me. I want to give a special thanks to Coach Chad Jamerson. He is one of the most entusiastic coaches that I have been with and is a student of the game. He is willing to do what ever it takes to make our program better, and most of all, his passion, love, and positive attitude has carried over to our players. Thanks to all of you. You make my job a lot easier. Also, to our Junior High Coach "James Hodges". He is what I call a perfect Jr. High Coach. He does it for the right reason,
and that is to get them ready for the next level. Yes, he wants to win, but he cares more about getting them to love the game.

Finally, I want to thank the EAGLE Nation. I have never seen a community get behind a team like you do. I don't care if things are going bad, you still show your love and support for your Eagles. The support from our loyal fans is inspiring and the amount of people joining the charge in increasing daily. With your help growing the Eagle Spirit and the dedication of this team and coaching staff, I have no doubt that 2008 is going to be a season to remember! Remember you can "COUNT ON ME!!!!!!!!!!!!

GO EAGLES!

Your Head Football Coach,

Jason Aycock