LAKEVILLE - First-year LaVille head football coach Matt Thacker prepares his first Lancer team ahead of the 2026 season in the tough Indiana Northern State Conference. Part of the participation is leading his new team through the summer of 2026 and instilling a new offense and adjustments on defense. Coach Thacker recently spoke with Hoosier Prep Gridiron and referred to some direction for LHS. Below is the exchange between Hoosier Prep Gridiron (HPG) and Coach Thacker: HPG: What did you and staff really like about what you saw out of your group coming out of the May-June spring workout sessions? Thacker: "Overall, we were happy with our consistency and the willingness to get after in the weight room. Plus, taking everything in stride with our installs on offense and defense. However, we still have a long way to go." HPG: What are some areas that you felt needed improvement as you headed into the Moratorium break period? Thacker: "QB/C exchanges are a must and we have struggled there, but there has been a willingness to learn and get better, which is exciting to see. Timing is another, but again that is going to take a little more reps and hopefully we can get better in July." HPG: Who is an offensive skill position player that really stood out during spring workouts and earned himself a likely starting position this fall? Thacker: "There are still many questions as we head into July and August, but we have been happy to see our older players grasp our offensive concepts as we'll lean on them heavily once the season gets here." HPG: Who is an offensive linemen that showed marked improvement this spring and dominated in drills when given the opportunity? Thacker: "Offensive-wise we are pretty young, but we will get after it in individual and group work. Some guys are definitely standing out, but it is still a little early for us to be pigeonholing anyone into any certain positions." HGP: Who is a defensive player that emerged as a potential leader with his aggressive and commanding field presence over the past several weeks? Thacker: "Personally, our front has been pretty solid from the scrimmage and that is where it all begins. If we can find some more depth there that will be huge for us as we progress into the season." HPG: What are your remaining post moratorium priorities as you make final preparations for the opening of fall camp? Thacker: "Finishing up our special teams, defensive and offensive installs, plus, getting ready for team camp towards the end of July. Excited to get going!" LaVille is scheduled for a scrimmage against Prairie Heights on August 14 at Lancer Field. The event begins at 7:00 PM