More is More
Jacksonville Sharks 2023 Regular Season Review
The 2023 National Arena League (NAL) football regular season has now concluded, but before the Jacksonville Sharks storm their way into the playoffs, it’s worth noting how they got here. The popular arena football team has been very successful this season, ending with an impressive record of 10 wins and 2 losses. They are currently the No. 1 seed coming into the off-season, and Jacksonville is pumped for what is to come.
One thing that has been apparent all year has been the team’s involvement in the community this year. The Sharks Foundation has played a big role in supporting loyal fans and struggling fans in Jacksonville. Owner Nick Furris and Head Coach Jason Gibson proudly expressed how much the area and its residents mean to them.
“We certainly have played very well, and we’re on a roll. But I think more importantly, we build the culture of football, the Jacksonville Sharks, both on the turf and in the community that has been reborn… We want to give back, just like every other professional team gives back, and we want to serve the community that we play in. And, and for me, I think that’s one of the greatest things that we did this year,” said Furris.
Throughout the season, Gibson was known for his motto “More is More,” meaning there is always more to be done. Whether that’s watching more game films, spending more time practicigin or even off-the-court like engaging with the fans. He believes that there is always room for improvement, and everybody plays a part in making things happen.
The team is fully prepared to battle it out in the coming weeks for the championship spot, and it seems like there is nothing that could get in their way. “As we progress through the playoffs, I’d like to be able to peak at the championship game and play the perfect game,” said Gibson. Their current win streak helps the team keep their head high, but both Gibson and Furris explained how crucial it is for them to only look forward without feeling too comfortable. Having such a dominant run can actually sometimes diminish the players’ outlook of what the end goal is and can make them feel accomplished before they finish the job. Gibson said this is an important message to convey to players when trying to keep them in the right mindset.
“Jacksonville Sharks football is back. It’s back. We’ve had a few years where things just weren’t going our way. We weren’t in the community. We weren’t doing the things that we knew we could do… we have a great organization. We have a lot of dedicated people. We have a great head coach. We have great owners, uh, staff. So, we just want to continue to do what we do best, and that’s play great arena football.” said Furris.
The Jacksonville Sharks have plenty to brag about after the monumental regular season they’ve had. This season has proven that they are a force to be reckoned with not only for this season but for many more to come.
