FLINT -- Flint Northwestern head football coach David Johnson believes with a positive and fast start, Flint Northwestern football can break through the shadows of a dismal past.

Johnson is headed into his first season as head coach for the Wildcats, a team that won two games in 2011 and none in 2010. He believes success will come as Northwestern begins 2012 as a new member of the Saginaw Valley League's South Division.

"Right now, these guys are ensuring that with a great attitude and hard work," Johnson said about his players.

Coach Johnson comes in for Andre Rison who stepped down after two years as football coach. Northwestern will also be without receiving standout Michael Henry, Jr., who now plays for Western Michigan.

Despite the losses, Johnson says his team will not only produce on offense but on defense and special teams.

"We're gonna put an exciting product on the field," Johnson said.

THe WIldcats open their season against Beecher at Atwood Stadium on August 23.