M.L. King football players describe their thoughts about transitioning to a new head coach.

Written By: GPB Sports Intern Savannah Pratt

Summer practice is in full swing and so are Dekalb County's new head football coaches. Are they ready for the task? Dekalb's 2014 Media Day presented the county's most recently hired coaches who appear ready for new beginnings this season, in addition to those who return for another season, carrying forward what they've already started.

Kevin Saunders is embracing his first season as Cross Keys' new head coach. Since Cross Key High School has not had a winning season since 1994, his plan is to completely renovate its football program.

“We have to completely change the whole mindset of their thinking… it is going to be completely different from anything they have ever done,” Saunders said.

M.L. King's new head coach Nick Kashan’s told us, “We're basically coming back and finishing what we started.”

Coach Kashan was the defensive coordinator for the Lions the past three years and is now the head coach. His main focus is teaching his players to finish this season strong.

“We’re getting in that second gear…to go all the way,” Kashan said.

While some programs have spent the summer adjusting to new leadership, others have continued to build on what they've already started. Which dynamic will prove most successful?

The 2014 season will tell.

Watch below to hear from the players and coaches themselves.