DENNIS SILVA II | STAFF WRITER
HIDALGO — Hidalgo’s offseason is defined in one word.
Closing out drives and games hindered the Pirates last season. Yes, they made the playoffs in coach Taihi Jones’ initial season at the helm, but what really could have been? They’ll never know, because mental errors or lazy gaffes took away opportunity after opportunity.
“We had situations last year where we had teams at 3rd-and-15, and we give up a first down,” Jones said. “We had the ball at first-and-goal on the 2-yard line and we fumble. We go on an 80-yard drive and then we turn it over on four downs.
“We didn’t know how to finish.”
The Pirates are hoping that’s no longer the case. In practices the last couple of weeks, Jones has noticed a distinct focus in his players. This is still a young group, having lost just 11 seniors from last season, but it’s one that now feels it has a purpose.
“The coaches are making us work really hard,” senior running back Adrian Ruiz said. “Practices are hard and long, but we got through it. The dedication is a big difference and there’s just more intensity.
“Everything we’re finishing harder, stronger.”
Jones and his staff walked into an arduous situation last season. They started on the job late because of the timing of Scott Ford’s departure to east Texas. Then they had to start from scratch at quarterback with Shea Patterson leaving to Louisiana.
The fact that Jones and the Pirates were able to squeak out a playoff berth was impressive. Now that they’ve had a full offseason under their belt, Jones is confident things will continue to get better.
“Now coming into camp, kids have an understanding of what we’re doing in the first place,” Jones said. “What’s surprised me is the effort. It’s been really good.
“I’ve seen a lot of physicality, and for the first time since I’ve been here we’ve had to blow the whistle to settle everything down. I’m excited about that.”
The Pirates are pleased with what they accomplished last season. But things are easier this time around, and there is no telling what lies ahead.
“I’m ready to go, man,” junior quarterback Peter Quiroz said. “Last year we made the playoffs, we were learning a lot of things under a new coaching staff and this year is easier. We know what we’re doing and we know who we are.”
A REASON FOR THE MADNESS
The Pirates’ skill position kids are young, and numbers are a concern. But those two factors are the only things that truly worry Jones.
Hidalgo is ahead of the curve everywhere else.
“We have a reason to do what we’re doing right now,” Jones said. “The mental game is better and now we can truly teach the whole X’s and O’s of what we’re doing.
“Everyone’s bought in, and it’s because we’re coaching the brand of the name of the ‘H’ that’s on our chest.”
Jones is also excited about a veteran offensive line in which three of the five are seniors.
QUIROZ TAKES CONTROL
For the second year, Hidalgo’s offense will be led by Quiroz. A louder Quiroz.
“Last year, he was a very quiet kid, and if you’re going to be a quarterback that won’t cut it,” Jones said. “He’s been more vocal and he’s been a leader. If you’re loud and vocal, guys are going to listen to what you have to say.”
Aside from being louder, Quiroz worked all summer with his receivers and defensive ends, the latter to get better at reading defenses.
“The biggest difference between this team and last year is dedication,” Quiroz said. “We have guys who work in the mornings or afternoons and they’re still here out on the field. That’s what I’m most proud of.”
PIRATES TO WATCH
Aside from Quiroz, other Pirates to keep an eye on are junior receiver Eliud Castillo and Ruiz, who got hurt before district play started last season.
The offensive line, as mentioned, will be the strength of the Pirates, starting with Johnathan Bolanos. He, Jesus Castillo and Rudy Zarate are three of nine starters returning on offense.
“Making the playoffs was huge for us, but we don’t want to be 4-6 again,” Bolanos said. “We don’t want to lose in the first round again. We want to be undefeated, we want to be district champs. We were young last year and we weren’t ready for the speed, but we’ve improved.”
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PROGNOSIS
Hidalgo got realigned into a tougher district. Instead of just beating out Progreso for a playoff spot, the Pirates have to hope La Feria has a down year.
2014 Record: 3-7
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TENURE
Coach: Taihi Jones
Years at school: 2
Record at school: 4-7-0