With the official start of practice rising on the horizon, Whitehall’s Brandon Bird already has high aspirations.

Summer workouts have heated up thoughts of possible three-peat for the two-time District 11 Class 5A champions.

“I think the summer is going well, and I like the team’s chances this year,” stressed the rising senior. “The chemistry is growing everyday, and the younger players are going to live up to our standards.

“Everybody is competing at a high level, and we are looking forward to the season.”

Bird primarily was a safety in the Zephyrs’ defense last season, recording 65 tackles, three forced fumbles, one fumble recovery and one interception.

Head coach Andy Marino sees an increased role for Bird this fall.

“Brandon practices and plays with incredible effort and has developed into an excellent safety for us,” said Marino. “He created timely turnovers in multiple games. We look forward to seeing him expand his game this fall.”

Along with Bird, Marino is looking for fellow seniors Carter Troxell and Alex Magarin to set the pace for his club.

Marino has watched his club potentially take the next step.

“Summer has been good,” said the second-year head coach. “We have made strides and look forward to the season.

“Our seniors have been good leaders for our younger players. We need to take another step once we start practice.”

Linebacker Carter Troxell led the team with 92 tackles last season, and he has a similar vision to Bird.

“I think summer is going very well so far,” said Troxell. “I see this team doing big things this year. The chemistry is definitely there with all of us getting along. The younger players are fitting well into their roles.”

“Carter’s preparation habits are excellent and plays with great effort,” noted Marino. “We look forward to seeing Carter take the next step as a player and leader.”

Tackle Alex Magarin knows he and his fellow seniors need to take the lead.

“Summer has been going well, and the team has been working very hard to get prepared for the upcoming season,” said Magarin. “We seniors are stepping up and setting and example for the younger guys to follow,

“As far as on the field goes. I’ve been happy with what I’ve seen, but there is always room for growth. I am looking forward to camp and continuing to work with them.”

“Alex was very consistent last year and improved every week,” added Marino. “He has had an excellent offseason and we expect him to help on both sides this year.”