Windsor Locks's new football coach Tobias Ceaser optimistic about season

In his first year at head football coach at Windsor Locks, Tobias Ceasar said he likes what he’s seen so far.

Ceasar was assistant coach in 2021, so he came in familiar with some players, but really likes this year’s squad.

“I think we really have a good balance of sophomores, juniors, and seniors,” he said. “The seniors are doing a really good job of leading the younger guys. Probably the strength of our team will be the juniors, and we have a couple of sophomores stepping up.”

Ceasar said the team will try to give opposing teams a different look than they’ve seen in the past.

“We’re looking to throw the ball a little more,” he said. “We’re going to put guys out in space and make plays. Our O-line is young, but decently athletic. We’re going to put them out in space, blocking. Defensively, we’re going to put more athletes on the field.”

Throwing that ball will be senior returning quarterback John McGuire.

“He got a few snaps last season as a junior, and he’s looked really good early in this preseason,” Ceaser said.

McGuire will be surrounded with seniors in the backfield, with H-back Joel Roman, who also plays middle linebacker, and running back Kevin Mullaney (also a safety). Hiking the ball will be Quran Nixon.

Cy’heim Holness is another returning senior leader at the cornerback position.

The junior group includes Yaqeen Diene (DE and TE), left guard Zachary Holoway, and wideout/safety Christopher Clement.

Buying into the program and mentally preparing for the season has been first and foremost in training camp.

“So far, it’s been really good,” Ceasar said. “I think I had a leg up because I was here as a track coach, and was here as an assistant football coach. When I first met the guys, they wanted to hear what I was trying to tell them. We had 30 guys at the first strength and conditioning workout on June 26, and that’s the most we’ve had in seven years. I think the kids are a little excited.”

In practices, it’s about teaching some self-discipline.

“It’s the little things, like not being on your knees when you’re tired,” Ceasar said. “So far, so good.”

The Pequot league has four new head coaches, but always has tough teams, Ceasar said.

“I think we’ve got a chance to be good in the league, but it all comes down to blocking and tackling,” Ceasar said. “If we can block and tackle, we’ll be fine. Size-wise, I think were as big anybody. We’ve got athletes as big as anybody.”

Rockville, SMSA, Stafford, and Ellington, the coach said, will be the teams most likely to be challenges.

“We’re still coming in as Windsor Locks and trying to make a name for ourselves. I think we’ve got a chance.”

For a complete schedule, visit www.ciacsports.com.

Sign up for email newsletters