FORK UNION Va. (CBS19 SPORTS)-- The sidelines are looking a little different this year at Fork Union Military Academy, with alumni Eddie Handsome now taking the field as head coach. 

“This is a special group of kids, first of all, this is my first-year home. I say home because I was a post grad here, and I am extremely excited, ever since I touched down, I’ve had goosebumps,” said Fork Union football Coach Eddie Handsome. 

Handsome is a familiar face to Virginia high school football as he played at Henrico High School before transferring to Fork Union. Since his playing days he served as an assistant coach to Attle, Varina, and Highland Springs and as head coach of the Norview High School program in Norfolk.

Now, he’s bringing his focused mentality to Fork Union. 

“These guys have been working hard, they’re excited, and we say we are locked in.  These gentlemen have been locked in all summer, and now it's time to roll,” Handsome said. 

With going 1-10 last season, FUMA is looking to improve this year’s record. 

“One day at a time, one game at a time.  That’s how we work. Whatever the name is of the team on the schedule, that's how we do our business. We aren’t looking too far ahead of ourselves, we want to get better each and every day, and lock in and the next opponent is up," said Handsome.

With a largely underclassman roster, four seniors lead the way. 

“I'm staying focused on the field, and in the weight room, and even in the classroom as well. We want to stay locked in this season and be successful as well,” said senior LB/QB Aaron McDaniel.

Even with the new coach, FUMA feels that the camaraderie and bond amongst the team is stronger than ever. 

“We’ve got Coach Handsome, new coach on the sideline, which I think is a big “W” for us and then the chemistry between the brotherhood here is big for us." said senior WR/DB Tyler Manglicmot.