The inaugural season of the West Alabama Makos will kick off in March, but the semi-pro football team is looking for more players to fill out their roster.

Founder and head coach Taylor Bates got the idea to start the team in August after coaching in the National Developmental Football League for a different team last season.

“I didn’t like how the young guys were treated,” he said, “so I decided to start a team and change that this season.”

Bates said his main goal is to provide positive feedback for young players who may not have gotten that before.

“I want to get these young guys to believe in themselves,” he said, “and provide them with positive feedback instead of all the negative they have heard from other places. A lot of them are good ball players, but maybe didn’t have the grades to go to the next level.”

The Makos are holding tryouts on Saturday, Nov. 3 at 3 p.m. at Gaineswood Park in Demopolis. Bates will be evaluating players in the 40-yard dash, 20-yard shuttle, 225-pound bench press and 1-on-1 drills.

There are about 30 players on the team currently, but he is looking to have a 45-man roster for the season. Players must be 18 or older to play, and there is a $10 fee to try out. Players should wear work out clothes and cleats if they have them.

Bates said he is also looking for dedicated volunteer coaches with football experience to come out as well as donations of equipment.

For questions, people may call Bates at 334-231-1443.