Pearl River coach Jerry Leonard looks right at home in the Rebels’ fieldhouse.

After a seven-year coaching hiatus, Leonard, who spent 16 years as the head coach at Salmen, looks to take the Rebels’ program to the next level.

“Whenever you get a new guy in with a new staff, there are going to be some changes,” Leonard said. “It’s a different way of doing things, and I think everyone has adapted well. From a player standpoint, it’s been a really productive summer. We still have a long way to go, but I’m pleased with where we are.”

Those are high words of praise from the fiery coach, and the players feel the same way.

“The transition has been good,” said senior defensive lineman and three-year starter Dakota Johnson. “I like this defense better because we’re a lot more physical, and he ex

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