The Dexter Bearcat football team completed their summer workout program this week. There is a great expectation coming off the 2010 season as the Bearcats return a lot of great talent to the gridiron.

Coach Aaron Pixley commented that the boys have worked really hard throughout last year on the weights and have continued to improve their size and strength. That was very evident in their final practice this past Friday.

Many of the Bearcats are searching for a life after high school on the football field. Returning linebacker and running back Nick Summers was not apart of the final practice as he and lineman Theo Gaul, were at camp at Lindenberg College in St. Louis.

Tyler Miller is another outstanding college candidate and attended several camps throughout the summer. Tyler's summer has been jam packed with camps, Boys State as well as a full-time job as a life guard at the local swimming pool.

One of the most evident changes you will find is with the Bearcats returning quarterback, Cody Stevens. Cody has put good weight throughout the Spring and Summer weighing in around the 180 pound mark. He's got one of the builds that looks "Photoshopped".

Most importantly, Cody's mobility has not been hampered by the additional weight. He was extremely strong during final practice running drills leading the entire team in all 10 of the 200 yard runs.

Cody also attended several camps and received high rankings from all the combine drills performed. Most recently, he attended a combine at Southwest Baptist University.

"Cody really impressed our coaching staff," commented SBU redshirt Junior and former Bearcat Glen Johnson. "His athleticism was what really got them talking."

The list of returning starters for the 2011 Bearcat team is long and brings a lot of hope and potential to the season. Some notable 'Cats that bring with them high expectations are:

JAKE LEE - DE/TE: Jake was a quick study in the program as he found himself in a starting role early in his sophomore season. He has a certain "nasty" about himself on the field that makes him very hard to handle by opponents. He will fill the shoes of All-State Tight End Morgan Hedrick. Jake has seen time at that position in double tight situations in past seasons and will offer a big target to Cody from that position.

ALEX CLIFF - LB/RB: Alex is the ultimate utility man on the team and fits in nicely wherever he is needed. He is a bruiser from the running back position and delivers a powerful running style. His blocking ability was a key in the 2011 season to open up holes for Josh Overall and Nick Summers. From his linebacker position, Alex can "slams the door" in the face of opponents. He's noted by the coaches to be a downhill linebacker that is quick to fill gaps at the line of scrimmage.

GARRETT WRAY - S/WR: Garrett was a great surprise last season. A product of Coach Pixley's weight room, he has developed into a strong physical player from the defensive side of the ball. Last season, Garrett was able to see a lot of action helping the Bearcats in post season action.

JOSH OVERALL - RB/LB: Josh Overall is an elusive runner and creates a lot of problems for opponents. Josh has incredible hip movement that is seen in very few running backs at the high school level. He is a team player and will be one of the strong leaders for the Bearcat this season.

Many other positions and players will be very strong in 2011. The ShowMe Times will continue to preview players as the season gets approaches.

Dead week runs all next week. Then on August 8th, the Bearcats will begin the season practices.