New Rosemead head coach Marc Paramo reports that his program has just 62 players across all grade levels out for spring football.

The Panthers had 72 when offseason preparations started, but like all programs that number has dipped.

Prior to starting spring ball in earnest on Monday, Rosemead was working every Wednesday for the past nine weeks, Paramo said. But the early start hasn’t produced a boost in numbers like coaches had hoped.

“I really am concerned,” Paramo said. “I really want the numbers to go up.

“That was one of our biggest goals. It was one of the reasons we started so early, to create some excitement. And it has with those kids are who just dialed in. We really need to tap into more of our Asian population here. We have two very good Asians on our team.

“A lot of times their parents won’t allow them to play.”

Aram’s take: Former coach Matt Koffler expressed concern to me about the program’s declining numbers last season. Considering this is a Rosemead program that has been among the area’s most consistent winners, the drop in player turnout has to be concerning for everyone. Like surrounding areas, Rosemead has experienced a significant demographic change. But it still has the Rosemead Rebels youth football program as a feeder. It will be very telling to see just how many players Rosmead’s frosh team fields in August. This is something to keep an eye on going forward.