Rocky Bayou wins inaugural contest

September 6, 2008 - 12:45AM
By ADAM PRUIETT

adamp@nwfdailynews.com

DESTIN - The Rocky Bayou Christian football team is officially undefeated.

In the first game in school history, the Knights made history with a landmark 25-12 victory Friday over Munroe Day.

"It definitely feels good winning, coming out and doing good, but we've got a long season and the games are going to get harder," said Billy Thomas, who scored twice for Rocky Bayou. "We've got to stay humble and play harder."

At a packed Destin Middle School, Rocky Bayou's defense was the story, intercepting four passes and recovering one fumble. But a close second was the team's special teams, which produced two touchdowns.

"We kind of try to hit hard," said a grinning Rocky Bayou coach John Reaves, "and it really paid off for us tonight."

Dion Wright scored the first touchdown in Rocky Bayou's history with a 75-yard kickoff return in the first quarter. Wright spun out of a tackle and zoomed past Munroe Day's approaching defense to the end zone.

Rocky Bayou (1-0) struggled to move the ball offensively, but luckily the Knights' defense put them in prime scoring position for two crucial touchdowns. On consecutive Munroe Day possessions in the second quarter, Rocky Bayou intercepted Cody Watson passes deep in Munroe territory.

Josiah Duffey's pick set up the Knights at the 15, and seven players later Thomas plowed in from the 3 to give Rocky Bayou a 13-12 lead.

Three plays later, James Waldron intercepted Watson to put Rocky Bayou at the 10. On the Knights' first play, a wide open Thomas snatched a go-ahead touchdown pass from Noah Mosley.

"I was nervous because I always drop them in practice, but it was a perfect throw," Thomas said.

Rocky Bayou's defense put the clamps on Munroe Day (0-1) in the second half, pitching a shutout as Wright and James Kaim both picked off Watson. Aaron Cain sealed the victory with a fumble recovery.

Rocky Bayou's defense picked up an offense that only registered 22 yards in the second half. The Knights did score one other touchdown on a 65-yard return by Kaim off a botched Munroe punt.

"I thought maybe I was going to get clobbered, but I caught the ball and looked up and I was pretty wide open," Kaim said.

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The Walton Sun - 790 CR 393N - Santa Rosa Beach FL 32459

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Rocky Bayou Christian - 2101 N Partin Dr. Niceville, FL 32578

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Football: No. 1 Stone Bridge 49, No. 5 Robinson 7

Bulldogs avenge their only loss of 2007 with a decisive, 49-7 victory over the visiting Rams on Friday
By Angela Watts
Managing Content Editor, DigitalSports.com

** Look below the story to find a video player link filled with more than 50 highlights from Friday's game!**

The message that Stone Bridge Coach Mickey Thompson delivered to his team following Friday's decisive, 49-7 victory over Robinson was as powerful as it was clear: "This puts us on the map. But don't take this for granted.

"We have a bigger goal."

But the truth is, the message that his players sent on the field carried even more weight.

The top-ranked Bulldogs did not simply defeat the Rams, the only team that marred an otherwise perfect record a year ago. The defending Virginia AAA Division 5 champions manhandled their opponent. Stone Bridge totaled 457 yards of offense, 49 points and 21 first downs in the victory, while Robinson managed only two first downs.

"I was reading some article and they said that we couldn't play in the Concorde District," senior quarterback Patrick Thompson said. "So we definitely made a statement, just pounding it at them out there."

The Bulldogs scored so fast -- and so frequently -- that even the Stone Bridge cheerleaders, who do push-ups after each score to match their teams' total number of points on the scoreboard, had to eventually switch to back flips to ease their load.

"We got it back for last year's guys, for our coaches and for ourselves," senior linebacker Mike Olson said. "It means the world to us. This is one of the biggest wins that we've ever had. And to do it two weeks in a a row with two Division 6 teams coming in here ... it's all smash-mouth football.

"Last year was tough; they just came at us so hard. This year we had such a good scheme and so much confidence coming into this game."

Stone Bridge mixed a healthy dose of its spread offense with the power of its single-wing rushing attack on Friday, and the results proved nearly a dead heat: 241 yards rushing, 216 passing.

Thompson did the brunt of the damage, completing 14-of-24 pass attempts for 201 yards and an interception while also rushing nine times for 53 yards and three touchdowns. It marks the second consecutive game that Thompson has thrown for more than 200 yards despite wearing a splint on his right, throwing hand that protects a ruptured tendon in his ring finger.

Senior running back Daniel Allen was explosive, totaling 108 yards rushing and three touchdowns on 19 carries -- an average of 5.7 yards per attempt.

Senior wide receiver Michael Prince added 64 yards receiving on three catches and also rushed one time for 35 yards and a touchdown. Senior tight end Nick Sheehan caught four passes for 30 yards and fellow senior tight end Zach Thompson hauled in three passes for 36 yards.

"What I worry about is that people go and they look at this and they say, 'Well, Robinson might not be that good,' " Mickey Thompson said. "But you watch: Robinson is a good football team. Tonight, we were just that good."

The Rams, meanwhile, struggled not only against the Bulldogs but against themselves with untimely penalties, turnovers and defensive breakdowns. Robinson scored its lone touchdown in the second quarter on a 37-yard touchdown pass from senior quarterback Timmy Meier to senior wide receiver Xavier Duncan.

"Getting off to a tough start at the beginning put us in a hole," Robinson Coach Mark Bendorf said. "And any team, particularly a veteran team, is going to take advantage of that and play hard when they're ahead.

"Hopefully, we'll respond the way they did last year."

While Robinson must next face West Springfield in another tough match-up, Stone Bridge readies for the start of its Liberty District schedule, where the Bulldogs have not lost a game since joining the league (21-0 since 2005). In fact, Stone Bridge has not lost a district game since a 34-21 loss to Park View while competing in the Division 4 Region II, Dulles District.

"We're decent, I guess," Mickey Thompson said when asked what his teams' two wins over West Springfield and Robinson by a combined total of 91-35 meant. "And we're playing very well right now."

His son, respectfully, disagreed.

"We're real explosive on offense," Patrick Thompson said. "We've proved we can score at any point, whether in 30 seconds or on a drive that takes five or 10 minutes. And our defense, I think, is one of the best in the state.

"So, ya know, I think we're a little bit better than decent."

Email: awatts@digitalsports.com

No. 5 Robinson 0 7 0 0 -- 7
No. 1 Stone Bridge 14 14 14 7 -- 49

First Quarter
SB - P. Thompson 6 run (Shaban kick)
SB - Allen 1 run (Shaban kick)
Second Quarter
RB - Duncan 37 pass from Meier (kick)
SB - P. Thompson 6 run (Shaban kick)
SB - Allen 27 run (Shaban kick)
Third Quarter
SB - P. Thompson 1 run (Shaban kick)
SB - Allen 1 run (Shaban kick)
Fourth Quarter
SB - Prince 35 run (McConnell kick)

Top Individual Performers
Rushing -- SB: Allen 19 carries, 108 yards, 3 TDs; P. Thompson 9 carries, 53 yards, 3 TDs; Prince 1 carry, 25 yards, TD.
Passing -- SB: P. Thompson 14-of-24 passing, 201 yards, 1 INT.
Receiving -- SB: Sheehan 4 receptions, 30 yards; Prince 3 receptions, 64 yards; Z. Thompson 3 receptions, 36 yards; Ansell 1 reception, 27 yards; Bladel 1 reception, 18 yards.

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VIDEO LINK

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DIGITALSPORTS.com

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Stone Bridge High School - 43100 Hay Road - Ashburn, Virginia 20147

Rocky Bayou ready for inaugural kickoff

September 5, 2008 - 12:42AM
By ADAM PRUIETT

adamp@nwfdailynews.com

NICEVILLE - Tonight will mark a historic moment in the Rocky Bayou Christian athletic program as the newly formed football team will play its inaugural game.

And it's a moment the Knights have been chomping at the bit to finally take in.

"They've been ready since Monday," Rocky Bayou coach John Reaves said. "We had the best week of practice that we've had so far. From Monday, it stepped up a notch on Tuesday and another notch yesterday. Today, we were spot-on. Their heads are in the game right now."

Indeed, the Knights say their intense preparation leading into the 6:30 kickoff tonight against Munroe Day at Destin Middle School has given them confidence.

"We've put in a lot hours," senior tailback/linebacker Noah Mosley said. "We've been practicing hard, a lot harder than a lot of other teams, I believe. We've got people coming over from other teams saying we do. We've been putting in the effort, and I think we're going to come out ready."

The Knights aren't denying that they'll have butterflies.

"I'm a little nervous, and I think everybody else is nervous, too, (but) I think we're ready," junior tailback/defensive back Justyn Lewis said.

The trick will be to temper those nerves. Reaves doesn't think his squad will be overwhelmed with what will be the first-ever football game of many of their lives.

"Deer in headlights? No," Reaves said. "I think after that first contact, it's just football."

Reaves has gathered some information on Munroe Day. He knows the team has switched to the spread offense from the Wing T, and the Knights will have to contend with their inferior size.

"I know we have good team speed, so hopefully speed can match up against size because we're not as big as them by a stretch," Reaves said. "They've got a 290-pound lineman. And if I put two of mine together, they'd almost be as big as him."

But Reaves and the Knights aren't as concerned about matchups as they are about seeing how the very first Rocky Bayou football team responds to its very first football game under the lights in front of a crowd.

"We're just ready to see what we have," Lewis said. "Some of us have never played football, so we're going to see what happens tomorrow."

Single-Wing Sentinel Update

Single-Wing Sentinel Update
55,200 Hits

Here's an update -- I put a hit counter on the site alittle over 11 months ago and in that time over 55,200+ hits.


There are over 430+ articles posted.

We now have 250+coaches/teams that have signed the Single-Wing Coaches Map (guestbook). We're still showing that there are Coaches/Teams in 48 states, plus the District of Columbia and 6 other nations.

The six countries other than the US are: Canada, New Zealand, France, England, Germany and Austria.

The States without a coach/team showing are:
1. Delaware
2. Vermont

Have you signed? Is your state represented? If not take a second to sign below!

If you know of a team any of the States not showing a team, let me know.

Thanks, to all for making the Sentinel a success!
========================

Single Wing Bronson Wins

BRONSON 21, QUINCY 13

Bronson's Mario Hernandez carried the ball 19 times for 124 yards in the Vikings' non-league season opener.

Also for Bronson, quarterback Tony Myers was 3-for-5 passing for 34 yards.

For Quincy, Mike Brewer led his team on the ground with 156 yards on 14 carries, with Shane Rider adding 78 rushing yards.

Brian Craig led the Oriole defense with 14 tackles.

Next Up for Bronson:
- Buchanan Bucks
- Buchanan edged the Vikings, 25-22, last year.
- Coach's Quote:
"(Bronson) runs a single-wing offense," Buchanan Coach Joe Austin said. "They use two backs and you don't know which one is going to take the snap. Defensively, they played really well against us last year. To move the ball against these guys our offensive line is going to have to play well."

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Bronson Junior/Senior High School - 450 E. Grant - Bronson, Michigan 49028

BHS football ready to repeat 2007 season

Following up a 10-3 season that ended in the Class 4A state semifinal round is a tough task for any high school football team.

Throw in to the mix that the 2007 squad was loaded with 15 seniors, six of whom signed to play on the collegiate level. It’s a chore that Baldwin High School coach Mike Berg is eager to take on with a bit of confidence.

“The kids are working hard and we’ve got 15 seniors leading this team,” Berg said. “Yes, we lost a quality senior class last year, but these guys know what it takes to be successful. They worked hard this summer, they’re leaders out here on the field and it’s going to be a fun year again.”

One benefit this year’s squad has over the 2007 team is the return of the same offensive philosophy. A year ago, the single wing offense ran over opponents, averaging 334 yards per game on the ground.

“We are way ahead of where we were last year offensively,” Berg said. “We’ve got our whole playbook in by now, so we are just fine-tuning things.”

The leading offensive star for the Bulldogs returns for his senior campaign. Sam Beecher led Baldwin’s three-headed monster backfield a year ago with 1,665 yards and he looks to do much of the same this fall.

“Our offensive line is looking really good, so individually I think I can have another good season like last year,” Beecher said. “Hopefully, that will carry over to the entire team so we can all be successful.”

Joining Beecher in the backfield will be several players. Those could include senior Carson Wood, sophomore Josh Hoffman and senior Andy Thurlow. Baldwin’s offensive line played a big part in last year’s success. Berg is hoping this year’s protection will be as solid with David Tuley, David Garrison, Ethan Hebenstriet and Brandon Mitchell blocking. The spot for center is still open, according to Berg.

“We have a little bit more size back there with our blocking back and not so much finesse with another thrower,” Berg said. “Our offensive line is just as big as last year, so it’s pretty much going to be the same team you saw last year with a little more experience at some positions and a little less at some.”

Baldwin will also have some threats at wide receiver. Those include seniors Brandon Tommer and Clad Kueffer, both standing taller than 6-foot-3.

Of course, it’s not all offense for the Bulldogs. They hope to have a strong defense again, especially upfront and in the secondary. Berg is confident both will help a young linebacking core.

“Andy Thurlow, Logan Schiller, Brandom Tommer and Josh Hoffman look great back there,” Berg said of the secondary. “We’ve got four quality kids there. I’ve got a good linebacking core also. They aren’t very experienced, but they know what to do.

“We’ve got both of our defensive ends back in Carson Wood and Ethan Hebenstreit. We’ve got Tuley, Garrison, Mitchell and others in the mix on the inside. We’re going to try and rotate a lot of guys in there.”

Baldwin will begin the season with a pair of road games before finally playing at Baker University’s Liston Field Sept. 19. The Bulldogs will travel to Paola Friday and Gardner-Edgerton the next week to begin the season.

This year will also be the first for the new eight-team Frontier League during the football season. Baldwin’s district opponents are different this year as it will be playing Perry-Lecompton, Santa Fe Trail and the usual, Eudora.

“It is nice, but the only bad thing is there are no easy games,” Berg said of the smaller league. “Every week we are against a 5A school or big 4A school. It’s going to be tough. “We’re also looking forward to playing a couple of teams out of our league. It should be interesting.”

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Baldwin City Signal - 703 High Street - Baldwin City, KS 66006
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Baldwin (Bulldogs) High School - 415 Eisenhower - Baldwin City, Kansas 66006

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Blazers find their rhythm

Recently-installed offense now second nature for Timberline
By Grant Clark For The Olympian • Published September 03, 2008

It's called the Pistol Offense.

Take your quarterback and line him up three yards behind the center, then place your running back four yards behind the quarterback. Part Spread and part Single Wing with a dash of Option thrown in — the set-up gives the quarterback the advantage of reading defenses and making decisions on what he sees all the time utilizing play-action and motion.

Created by current Nevada coach Chris Ault, the Pistol can have as many as 30 plays run out of a single formation, making it confusing for defenses.

It also can leave those who are trying to learn it for the first time scratching their heads.

Nick Mullen figured this would be the case in 2007 — his first year as Timberline’s head coach.

“We knew it was going to take a while,” Mullen said about the unconventional offense. “It’s not something you just immediately grasp.”

Senior captain Ronnie Hamlin can attest to that.

“I really didn’t know much about the offense the first time I heard about it,” Hamlin said. “I knew it was kind of like shotgun because the quarterback wasn’t under center and there are some elements of the spread in it. That’s pretty much all I knew when I heard we were going to run it. Before the first game (last year) we were still trying to figure things out.”

Featuring a young group of first-time varsity players last year the Blazers were shut out four times and scored six points in two other games.

This shouldn’t be the case this season.

“It’s day and night different,” Mullen said when asked how far his players have progressed in terms of understanding the new offense since last season. “You could tell last season there was a lot of tentativeness during practices because it was new to them. We still have a ways to go, but they’re learning and improving. You can see how far they have come since last year.”

Despite the offensive woes in 2007, the Blazers still managed to finish in a three-way tie for third place in the Western Cascade Conference with North Thurston and Capital — forcing a mini-playoff to determine the league’s last postseason slot, which the Cougars won.

It marked the first time in the past five seasons that Timberline failed to win a league championship and make the Class 3A state playoffs, where they had advanced to the quarterfinals three times during that span.

A talented group of seniors could return the Blazers back to that familiar spot this season.

Leading the way will be the 6-foot-3, 200-pound Hamlin — Timberline’s do-it-all player who should be one of the area’s top playmakers.

“We know what we are doing out there,” Hamlin said. “We’ve been in this offense for a year now and the players understand it. I love being in it. I used to be just a receiver. Now I get to play a lot of positions on offense. I line up at slot; I get to run the ball, play wide receiver and block. I like that I get to change things up.”

As gifted as he is on offense, Hamlin might be a better defensive player. A physical hitter, he became the first Timberline player in more than a decade to earn first-team all-league honors as a defensive back as a junior.

“You just can’t say enough good things about this kid, the list is so long,” Mullen said. “He’s just a great kid and not just on the football field. He’s the type of person you like having around.”

Hamlin, however, isn’t Timberline’s only weapon on offense.

Returning are senior wide receivers Josh Taylor, Trevor Crump and John Ferreira, while Immanuel Garraway, a second-team selection at running back, will be the Blazers’ primary ball carrier and moves from linebacker to defensive end on the other side of the ball.

Up front J.K. Kaminanga, a second-team choice offensive lineman as a junior, is Timberline’s only returning starter. Two of the team’s top juniors should be Jonathan Schuster, who will play running back and linebacker, and Dylan Swanstrom, who moves from the line to linebacker and will also be the team’s punter.

“The team has worked hard over the summer,” Mullen said. “It’s a great group of kids who are really fun to coach. We’re looking forward to getting back out there and playing games.”

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The Olympian - 111 Bethel Street NE - Olympia, Washington 98506

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Timberland (Blazers) High School - 6120 Mullen Drive SE - Lacey, WA 98513

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.

Single-Wing Surge

Second Half Surge Sends

Titans To 22-0 Win; Davy

Brostowitz Has 3 Teedees

A strong defensive effort along with three touchdowns from senior halfback Davy Brostowitz sparked the Lena-STAA Titans to a 22-0 win over Crandon Thursday.

The Titans spent most of the opening half deep in Crandon’s territory but couldn’t put up any points. Their first drive stalled at the one, second march at the 9, third on a fumble at the 37, fourth resulted in a punt and the fifth was stopped at the Cardinal 21 at halftime.

The second half was a different story as the Titans scored on the opening possession of the third quarter and twice within a span of 62 seconds in the final period to pocket the win.

“I was very happy with the play of our defense the whole game. Crandon is a very good team and we were able to shut down their wishbone offense. We struggled offensively in the first half before getting our blocking adjustments straightened out in the second half. We could have very easily went in the tank but our kids didn’t allow that to happen. That is a credit to them,” co-head coach Dale Lange said.

While the Titan defense kept Crandon off the scoreboard, senior running back Davy Brostowitz took over for an injured Bryan Klister and rambled for 90 yards and a trio of touchdowns to spark the single wing attack. Brostowitz hit paydirt on a 25 yard jaunt in the third frame then added runs of 3 and 5 yards in the fourth period.

Klister was forced to the sidelines after dislocating his elbow at the 8:55 mark of the opening quarter.

“On our first drive Klister, who is our fastest runner, was heading to the end zone when he slipped at the 3 yard line. To break his fall, he put his arm down, fell on it and dislocated his elbow. We are not certain how long he’ll be out...will have to wait and see,” Lange added.

The Titans should have taken control on their opening two drives as they wasted golden scoring opportunities.

Paul Belongia blocked Crandon’s first punt setting the Titans up at the 28. It looked like certain points. Klister carried 3 straight times and six of the first 8 running plays, including a clutch fourth down burst to the one. He lost 4 yards on first down then was lost for the game on the next play as he slipped and injured his elbow. Quarterback Ed Ellman reeled off 4 yards on third down before Brostowitz was stopped short of the end zone on fourth down.

The Titan defense kept Crandon pinned in the shadow of their own goal post and got great field possession after a short punt. Starting at the Cardinal 17, the Titans offense sputtered as three runs gained 8 yards before Zach Klister was stopped for no gain on fourth down.

A pass interception by Tyler Wagner in the end zone short-circuited the Cardinals final drive of the half and almost set up a late Titan score. Starting at their own 20, the Titans advanced to the Crandon 38 on a 34 yard pass from Zach Klister to Adam Tappa. Klister motored 12 yards to the 26 and Brostowitz 5 more before the half ended.

Following the halftime break, the Titans snapped the scoreless contest on their opening possession of the third frame with a 8 play, 62 yard drive. Brostowitz got the call 6 times before finding the comforts of the end zone on a 25 yard scamper at the 7:07 mark. Zach Klister booted the point after for a 7-0 lead.

The Titans needed just 62 seconds to pad the cushion to 22-0 in the fourth quarter.

After a flurry of fumbles, Tom Beschta set up his mates at the Crandon 8. Three plays later Brostowitz bounced in from 3 yards out then added the conversion run for a 15-0 spread at the 5:53 mark.

Three plays after the ensuing kickoff, Belongia recovered a bobble at the Crandon 17. Two Brostowitz runs produced points with the second coming from 5 yards out (4:51). Klister tacked on the PAT for that 22-0 final score.

“Our defense forced six fumbles in the game and we recovered all of them. It was a good win but we still have work to do,” Lange concluded.

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Peshtigo Times - 841 Maple St - Peshtigo, WI 54157
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Lena High School - 304 E Main St - Lena, WI 54139
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Warsaw Tigers

Warsaw Tigers

Coach: Rick Hoy, 6th season (11-31).

Last year: 3-6.

2008 classification: D.

Returning starters: 7 offense, 7 defense.

Players to watch: TE/DB Pat Wood (6-1, 160, sr.); OL/DL Jim Neeley (6-0, 250, sr.); OL/DL Brandon Mobley (5-10, 210, sr.); OL/DL Josh Soble (5-11, 230, sr.); RB/DB Jake Watkins (5-9, 180, sr.).

Outlook: Running back by-committee is the name of the game at Warsaw this year.

Watkins, Dave Royce, Tyler Parrott and Joe Sumerski will all get carries this season in Hoy's single-wing offense.

"We have a very unique offense," Hoy said. "All of our backs can run and throw, which is good for the option style we play. All the guys are unselfish and don't have a problem sharing the ball."

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Rochester Democrat & - 55 Exchange Boulevard - Rochester, New York 14614

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Warsaw High School -153 W Buffalo St - Warsaw, NY

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Webster City unveils new look but retains old vision of playing smash-mouth football

Knights edge Lynx, 22-21

Webster City, IA) The Webster City Lynx (0-1) lost their season opener to Union-LaPorte City (1-0), 22-21, in both a thrilling and heart-breaking contest; with the Lynx leading 19-7 most of the game, the Knights came back in the 3rd quarter and scored to narrow the gap 19-15. Then, with 7:25 left in the game, they scored again to take a 22-19 lead. After driving inside their opponent's 10-yard line, the Lynx turned the ball over with an interception but the defense held strong and sacked Union's running back in the endzone for the 2-point safety to make the score 22-21. Webster City returned the kickoff to 50-yard line and unfortunately turned the ball over on downs with 1:23 left in the game. Webster City squander two opportunities to score: just before halftime they were inside the 10-yard which would have put them up, 26-7, and then again towards the end of the game when they were down 22-19.

Offensively, the Lynx rushed for 223 yards and were led by senior Bret Hilpipre who carried the ball 8 times for 105 yards and 1 touchdown; Hilpipre's 65-yard scamper on the second play from scrimmage put the Lynx up 7-0 and the running back was followed by classmate John Hill who rushed 13 times for 72 total yards. As well, senior Ross Haren added another 40 yards on 11 carries along with 1 touchdown. Adding to the mix was Nate Treibel who returned a Lynx punt for a blazing 65-yard touchdown. Senior quarterback Brent Nelson was 3/6 for 50 yards along with one interception and Kevin Kannuan was the leading receiver with one reception for 23 yards.

Defensively, the Lynx held Union-LaPorte City to just 88-yards on the ground in 29 attempts and were led by LB Ryan Vande Zande and Haren who both collected 7 tackles; Haren also had 3 quarterback sacks for a total of minus 17 yards along with a safety. The two seniors were followed by junior MLB Tyler Moen and Treibel who both collected 6 tackles. As well, Hilpipre added 5 stops along with senior DB Alex Davis who had 4.

The Lynx next travel to Eagle Grove this Friday, September 5, to take on the Eagles (0-1) who were defeated 45-18 by Roland Story to open up their season.

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webstercityfootball.com
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Webster City High School - 1001 Lynx Avenue - Webster City, Iowa 50595

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Preview: 2nd Year SW Team -- Scottsdale Christian Eagles

...................................Jose Garcia/The Arizona Republic........................................
...................................Scottsdale Christian coach Jeff Fox......................................

---

by Sam Good - Aug. 11, 2008 12:36 AM
Special for The Republic
Experience, unity, unselfish.

Those were the three words head coach Jeff Fox used to describe his Phoenix Scottsdale Christian football team.

And following a first round departure from the 2007 Class 2A playoffs, the Eagles will try to use those attributes to repeat as 2A Central Region champions and to fuel a deeper run in the 2008 playoffs.
Scottsdale Christian will have eight returning starters on offense and seven on defense, and perhaps the player with the most impact will be Michael Munsil.

Munsil, a 6-foot-1, 240-pound senior lineman plays both ways and was an all-state selection last season. He led the state with 112 tackles and recorded three sacks.

"(Munsil) is our top kid coming back," Fox said. "We're going to have a really good line this year and Michael will be the leader of that. He is a big numbers producer and always seems to be in the right place at the right time."

And on the offensive side of the ball, Munsil's biggest task will be protecting senior quarterback Jacob Storrer.

Storrer started all 10 games for Scottsdale Christian last year and threw for 557 yards along with more than 1,000 rushing yards.

Fox said having a returning quarterback to command the offense will be one of the key factors if the Eagles want to improve on last season.

"It's a tremendous asset to have a senior quarterback with so much experience," Fox said. "It's pretty rare to find a high school team that can have great success without that.

"The type of kid (Storrer) is, he has a great work ethic, he's a two-sport athlete, loves to compete, and he's done a great job to prepare himself for his senior year. We're going to rely on him even more this year and I know he's ready for that."

In 2007, Scottsdale Christian relied heavily on its run game, and Fox said Eagles fans can look for the same thing in 2008.

Last year, senior running back Ryan Tully anchored the rushing attack with 1,353 yards, but he has graduated and the Eagles will have to find that production else where.

Storrer will still be a rushing threat, Fox said, and senior Jeff Matney, who was used as a situational quarterback in 2007, will move into the backfield and is expected to be the featured tailback this year.

Also, senior Taylor Barnes, who was an all-region kickoff and punt returner in 2006, is back on the team after taking 2007 off to focus on baseball, and will take some reps in the backfield too.

Barnes, who runs a 4.5-second 40-yard dash is the fastest player on the team.

"Taylor is a game breaker," Fox said. "He has that extra gear and is usually the fastest guy on the field. He'll give us one more option offensively and it's the little things like having that fast guy out there that can hopefully push us over the edge."

The bar is set high for the 2008 Eagles, Fox said, but he has no doubt that the team will have another stellar season.

"These guys all get along so well, and they're willing to do whatever it takes to win," Fox said. "Our goal is to win the region again and get farther in the playoffs than we did last year. And with this group of guys I think we have a real good shot of accomplishing those things."


Scottsdale Christian Eagles

Region: Class 2A Central

Coach: Jeff Fox

Last Season: 8-2, lost to Bisbee in first round of Class 2A playoffs.

Top returners: Michael Munsil, 6-1, 240, Sr., OL/DL; Jacob Storrer, 5-9, 175, Sr., QB; Jeff Matney, 5-8, 190, Sr., RB; Paul Jurewicz, 6-5, 245, Jr., TE.

2008 outlook: After a first round playoff loss a season ago, the Eagles hope to make a deep run into this year's playoffs. The Eagles are an experienced team but find themselves in a tough region and repeating as league champions could prove difficult.


Scottsdale Christian 2008 schedule

All games 7 p.m. unless noted

Sept. 5- at Tonopah Valley

Sept. 12- vs. Phoenix Arizona Lutheran

Sept. 19- vs. Joseph City

Sept. 26- vs. Tombstone

Oct. 3- at Queen Creek Canyon State Academy*

Oct. 10- vs. Phoenix Northwest Christian*

Oct. 17- at Camp Verde*

Oct. 24- vs. Phoenix North Pointe Prep*

Oct. 31- at Chandler Valley Christian*

*- Region game

Alchesay offense rolls over Fighting Scouts

By: Keith Morris, The Independent
09/02/2008


FORT DEFIANCE - Alchesay is a run-oriented football team.
Anyone wondering why the Falcons chose to go almost exclusively to the ground game got a perfect example in their season-opening game at Window Rock on Thursday night.
Frank Larzelere ran for 205 yards and three touchdowns to spearhead an attack that netted 504 rushing yards and powered the Falcons to a 44-24 victory over the Fighting Scouts.
Like any wise running back, the senior knows he wouldn't be the kind of explosive back he was on Thursday without of the help of an offensive line that just dominated the line of scrimmage. "They're a good line," said Larzelere, who ran 18 times. "They're confident and they like to motivate the team and they're pretty good at their blocking, too. I have to give all the credit to my linemen."
Stephone Hanna added 161 yards and a pair of touchdowns on 25 carries as the Falcons kept the Fighting Scouts guessing about who would get the next call.
While it's the running backs who get most of the glory in a game like this, you can be sure the guys in the trenches are sharing in the fun.
"We're real proud because we're the ones that make the holes for the backs," said senior right guard and defensive tackle Gideon Griggs. "Basically, the offense revolves around the linemen doing their jobs and executing and getting the blocks in."
Window Rock actually led 6-0 on Joshua Pablo's 31-yard catch of a Dwight Tabaha pass three minutes into the game but Larzelere followed with 5 and 12 yard runs to give the Falcons a 14-6 lead before the end of the opening quarter and they would not relinquish it. Hanna broke loose on a 31-yard scoring run before halftime after the Scouts cut the deficit to 14-12 but missed on a two-point pass.
At 22-12 it was still a game at intermission but the Falcons changed all that with a big third quarter.
Larzelere opened the second half with a 56-yard sprint on the first play of the third quarter to the Window Rock 7 and burst up the middle for the final yard to cap the four-play, 63-yard drive that took just 55 seconds and kicked off a three-touchdown quarter for Alchesay touchdowns that put the game out of reach.
Lydo Harvey's 35-yard TD run with 5:16 unplayed in the third was the Falcons' fourth consecutive touchdown before the Scouts cut into the 44-12 deficit with a pair of fourth-quarter scores against the Alchesay reserves.
Alchesay, which beat Window Rock 36-6 in last season's opener in Whiteriver, held Window Rock to 227 yards from scrimmage, including 86 yards on 23 rushing attempts. The Scouts had opportunities to score more first-half touchdowns but good passes went right through open hands on three separate occasions.
"Football is a game of low-man wins," said Window Rock coach Perry Coggins. "Just like they did last year, they ran straight over us north and south. Dropping three touchdowns in the first half didn't help us either. We should have been ahead at halftime.
"When you're behind at halftime and on the first play they break one loose for about 50 yards and we've dropped three touchdown passes, you kind of lose your get up and go. That's what football is: you kill the head and the body dies. We didn't respond immediately after halftime. They stuck another one in and instead of being down 10 we're down 18."
The Falcons improved to 5-0 in opening games in Newcomb's five seasons as head coach.
"It's the first game and we got that out of the way," Newcomb said. "We won the first game. I have a motto: 'You can't win them all unless you win the first one.'
Both teams turned the ball over twice on fumbles.
"Window Rock is a little bit better (than last season) and we're doing some different stuff," Newcomb said. "...We fumbled a punt and we fumbled a quarterback exchange and they scored two touchdowns off that. Then they scored late. I had a lot of guys out of position, trying to get a bunch of kids into the game, I have (37) kids on the roster trying to get them all in."
Alchesay will spend the next three weeks at home, hosting San Carlos at 7 p.m. on Friday in the home opener before entertaining Ganado and Holbrook.

==============================

The White Mountain Independent

3191 S.White Mountain Rd. #4

Show Low, AZ 85901

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Alchesay high school - P.O. 190 - Whiteriver, AZ 85941

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Editor's Note: Alchesay High School is a public high school located on the Apache Reservation in Whiteriver, Arizona, Navajo County. They run the Double & Single Wing.

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Single wing joins diverse TVC West

Wednesday, August 27, 2008 GEOFF MOTTTHE SAGINAW NEWS

A high school football coach's great challenge is preparing his players for success against new opponents every Friday night.

In the Tri-Valley Conference West Division, this detail can prove especially tough.

Whether it's Merrill's pass-happy spread offense, Ithaca's unbalanced spread or Michigan Lutheran Seminary's veer option attack, defensive coordinators find themselves scrambling week to week.

''Every week there is something new to prepare for in this league,'' Merrill coach John Streeter said. ''That makes coaching fun ... and challenging.''

All teams will have plenty of new challenges to consider in an eight-school league that sent three teams to the playoffs and a fourth -- Michigan Lutheran Seminary -- that missed by one win.

St. Charles returns as defending league champions after finishing the regular season undefeated. In the last year under head coach Bob Welzein, the Bulldogs knocked off Marlette in the first round before losing 24-18 in overtime in the second round to eventual state champion Nouvel Catholic Central.

With offensive coordinator Brady Lake taking over as head coach, the Bulldogs unveil one of the oldest offensive game plans around -- the Single wing. The set, which was created by legendary coach Glenn ''Pop'' Warner in the early 1900s, is used by a few teams, including a Menominee team that has won two straight state titles. The offensive set does not feature a quarterback and direct snaps can go to one of three running backs. Passing is minimal while fakes, dives and sweeps are plenty. The unbalanced look is used to trick defenses, not overpower them. It's also the precursor of the spread offense.

''We were pretty unique with the power T and now we're changing,'' said Lake, who spent the last seven years in St. Charles as an assistant coach. ''I took over the offense for (Welzein) two years ago and after that first year I saw Menominee run it, I wanted it. But I didn't want to make changes two years in a row. I wanted another year to investigate. When I got the job to take over, I figured we might as well do it now.''

Lake and his assistant coaches made a pilgrimage to Wilkes-Barre, Pa., where more than 150 coaches around the country gathered to share information. His staff rented a van with New Haven coach Todd Winters' staff and made the trek.

''It was a nine-hour trip and well worth it,'' Lake said. ''I made some friends and now we're e-mailing information with coaches from around the country. It's like a brotherhood of single wing coaches who appreciate the offense so much that they pass all of their information on.''

With returning running backs Marshall Davenport, Travis Crane and Dugan Roosa, Lake is eager to watch the offense in action.

''I like running the football,'' Lake said. ''I can tailor the system to these kids and we have to work hard in the weight room. I don't trust 16- and 17-year-old kids chucking the ball down field.''

Merrill has trusted 6-foot-6, 205-pound quarterback Jason Pratt to chuck the ball in its spread offense since he took over the starting job as a freshman. Entering his senior season with running back Ricky Chapin and receivers Travis Williams and Aaron Foor, the Vandals' offensive attack is finely tuned and are the early favorites to win.

''(Pratt) ran for 1,200 yards and our running back went over 1,000,'' Streeter said. ''We want to stay balanced, keep it at 50-50. The temptation is to throw a lot with Pratt, but we emphasize the run and defense.''

The Vandals will play with heavy hearts. Mike Prosser, one of their top receivers, died unexpectedly at his family's home on July 31. The 16-year-old led the team in receptions (64) and touchdowns (14).

''He was a special athlete and a special kid,'' said Streeter, whose team advanced to the state quarterfinals last season before losing 35-32 to Harbor Beach. ''That's a huge hole to fill. We'll need a couple guys to step up there.''

Ithaca, which lost in the first round of the playoffs last season, has run its unbalanced spread for 10 years. Like youth programs in St. Charles and Merrill, the consistency with the youth program and the high school's coaching staff makes the varsity transition on the offensive side of the ball smooth.

''We have great consistency in our coaching staff and youth program and our kids really understand what they're doing by the time they get up here,'' Ithaca coach Terry Hessbrook said. ''We run the spread here, but we have a lot of plays that come from the single wing. With Merrill and St. Charles this year, everything should be interesting in the league.''

Seminary has run the veer option offense since former coach Loren Dietrich installed it 30 years ago. Every coach has run the system since then, including former player and current coach Larry Seafert.

''Our program is very familiar with it,'' Seafert said. ''We're small and not that fast. We have to have something that levels the playing field. We're not going to push over anybody and this is a nice offense to keep teams unbalanced. You have to respect three different people.''

With high soccer participation among Lutheran middle schools, Valley Lutheran coach Eric Smith doesn't have the luxury of players understanding his double tight end, split back set when they arrive as freshmen. Smith, entering his fourth year, expects many offenses around the state to change after University of Michigan hired new coach Rich Rodriguez and his version of the spread offense.

''The conferences are only going to get more diverse with what's happening at Michigan,'' Smith said. ''With that running game out of the spread offense and the style he brings, you'll see quite a changeover.''

Change is back at Carrollton as Greg Wasmer takes over the program for the first time. A long-time assistant at Bay City John Glenn, Wasmer brings in the power and spread versions of the I-formation.

St. Louis runs the option out of the I-formation and with many returning lettermen, expectations are high for the Sharks and fifth-year coach Alan Esterline.

Breckenridge runs the Power-T offense and it helps slow down the high-paced offenses of its league foes.

''We like to eat up the clock and stretch the field,'' Breckenridge coach Mark Gregory said. ''We played Merrill tough and lost, but we gave up the fewest points against them. It's always a war when we face them.''


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Geoff Mott is a sports writer for The Saginaw News.
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Single Wing leads KC Colts to upset win

Coach's Report

J. Michael Ranson
Head Coach
Kanawha City Colts
Charleston, WV

Mike We started our season last Sunday. As luck would have it we drew the preseason favorite for our first game. The team that we had to play had destroyed both of their opponents in the our Kick off Classic. The coach of the team had informed me that they had so much talent that they did not know how they were going to keep all of their skill players happy. A lot of their kids complete on the local 10 year old track team in the summer and had very successful meets against out of state competition.

My team has some strength but we are very slow. The only thing that we have going for us is the Single Wing Offense. We got the kick off and drove 3 yards at a time (Powers, Wedges and Blasts mostly) for a touchdown and with the extra point went up 8-0. We took six minutes to score.

We kick off and the first play they score on a 70 yard run (8-8).

We get the ball back and after using up about 5 minutes of the clock we score again on a power play. Miss the extra point and its 14-8. The key play in the drive was our swinging gate play. As some know we huddle to the sideline. We snapped the ball sideways on a 3rd and 8 and ran for about 30 yards.

They get the ball back and immediately break lose on a long run but a block in the back brings it back and makes it 1st and 20. Somehow we hold them and they punt (never so glad to see a punt in my life).

We had to move a little quicker this time as it was getting near half time. We ran a T-spin out of our pistol formation. We faked the TB quick trap and gave the ball to the WB on Counter Sweep. He ran 25 yards. We advanced the ball to the 11 yard line with 4 seconds to play when we decided to cheat. (We threw a pass). We threw our WAL pass out of the WAL formation. This is where we send the SE who is on the left side across the middle and then run our QB on a wheel route from the left wing position. The TB hit him at the five and he scored on the last play of the half. (20-8).

We kick off to start the 2nd half. First play 65 yard TD run by a track star. (20-16).

On the 3rd play after receiving the kickoff my big (but slow) TB breaks lose on a power and goes 45 yards for a TD. I don't know how he ran as fast as he did but he looked like he was possessed on the run. (26-16).

Somehow we held them once again and got the ball back with 3:00 to go in the 3rd quarter on our 40 yard line. They never saw the ball again. The game ended with us in Victory formation on their 5 yard line. We ran a 14 play drive that ate up the rest of the 3rd quarter and the entire 4th quarter. They moved their DT outside of our Strong Tackle so we just kept running Blast after Blast 3 and 4 yards at a time.

As you can imagine we were pretty excited. After the game one of my parents who was working the chain on the other side told me that the coaches of the other team kept yelling we have to make an adjustment on defense to which the response was "what adjustments can we make".

All told we ran out of 8 formations. We had over 50 offensive plays to the other teams 10. I love this offense.

.

NEW HAVEN 28, CENTER LINE 19

NEW HAVEN0 2 11 15 -- 28


KEY PLAY: New Haven's Tyler Baade ran for a 32-yard TD midway through the fourth quarter to break a 19-19 tie.


STAR OF THE GAME: Baade, a junior, rushed for 103 yards on 16 carries and 2 TDs He added five solos tackles and a goal-line interception in the fourth quarter.


KEY STATISTIC: New Haven came back from a 192 halftime deficit and outscored Center Line 26-0 in the second half.


COACH'S VIEW: "We gave up an interception for a touchdown and we fumbled on our own five in the first half that cost us two touchdowns," New Haven assistant coach TeeJay Peterson said. "The defense really stepped up in the second half."


RECORDS: New Haven is 1-0; Center Line is 0-1.

First Quarter

CL - John Essemacher 15 pass from Eric Sharrard (run failed)

Second Quarter

NH - Quentin Cowart safey

CL - John Gaynon 68 int ret (pass failed)

CL - Sharrard 5 run (kick good)

Third Quarter

NH - Tyler Baade 3 run (Tim Davenport run)

NH - Damian Nicholson 23 FG

Fourth Quarter

NH - Chris Ashley 1 run (run failed)

NH - Baade 32 run (Nicholson kick)

NH - Cowart safety

CL NH

First downs NA NA

Rushes-yds NA 57-279

Passing NA 11

Comp-Att-Int NA 1-4-1

Punts NA 1-21

Fumbles-Lost NA 4-2

Penalties-yds NA 3-20

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS


RUSHING: NH: Baade 16-103, Chris Hessell 14-76


PASSING: NH: Hessell 1-4-1


RECEIVING: NH: Davenport 1-11

=====================================
Times Herald
911 Military Street
Port Huron, MI 48061-5009
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New Haven HS
57700 Gratiot Avenue
New Haven, MI 48048
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Single-Wing St Charles Win Big!

Hornets Fall

ST. CHARLES - For the second straight year, St. Charles handed New Lothrop a season-opening football defeat 42-13.

With long-time Bulldogs coach Bob Welzein stepping down as head coach after last season, newcomer Brady Lake collected his first coaching victory at the Hornets' expense.

St. Charles' single-wing offense racked up 367 total yards, including 324 on the ground.

The first quarter was a 7-7 standoff. St. Charles drew first blood on Dugan Roosa's 13-yard scoring scamper.

New Lothrop countered with Jeremy Emmendorfer's 5-yard run. It was set up by Trevor Vincke's 50-yard pass to Cody Peterman to the Bulldog 5.

The Bulldogs then scored 21 unanswered points in the second period and added 14 more unanswered points in the third quarter.

The Hornets' final points came with 8:32 left in the game. Vincke passed 10 yards to De'Andre Johnson.

Vincke completed five of 15 passes for 93 yards, one score and one interception.

Zach Maike was the top New Lothrop rusher with 57 yards on 11 carries.

Ryan Parks had 11 tackles for the Hornets.


==============================================
The Argus-Press Owosso, MI
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St Charles High School - 881 W Walnut St - St Charles, MI
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Gators set for home opener with Lakewood

Demetrius McKelvie

By DAN BISER
Sports Editor

For the first time in nine years, the East Columbus High School football team will open a season on its homefield this Friday night.

Coach Travis Conner’s Gators will play host to the Lakewood Leopards Friday at 7:30 with hopes of breaking a three-year losing streak against the Sampson County team.

East Columbus last played the season opener on its homefield on Aug. 20, 1999 as it defeated Pender 20-7 with junior back Kaliym Hazel rushing for 184 yards and two touchdowns on 14. In 2000, the Gators opened the season with a loss to Bladenboro, and from 2001 through 2006, the Gators held a season-opening endowment game series with Southwest Onslow ... all on the SWO field. Last season, ECHS opened the season with 20-12 loss at Lakewood.

The 1999 home game with Pender also marks the last time East Columbus won its season opener, so Conner and his staff are hoping that will be a good sign this week.

“We had our chances against Lakewood last year, but there were just too many mistakes,” Conner said. “Mistakes and injuries were our big drawback last season.”

East Columbus went 5-7 last year only to realize after the season that it had used an ineligible player and had to forfeit the wins.

The Gators have shown some good things in pre-season scrimmages with Fairmont and Fayetteville’s E.E. Smith, but Conner is still cautious about the season, especially about opening against a Lakewood team that advanced to the Western 1A finals last season, losing out to North Duplin.

Lakewood, a member of the “rough-and-tumble” Big Six Conference, also took wins of 21-0 in 2006 and 29-16 in 2005 over the Gators.

“I’ve been impressed by Lakewood each time we have played them in the past,” Conner said. “They are aggressive and well-coached.”

Lakewood, coached by James Lewis, made a good showing against West Bladen in last week’s Sampson County Jamboree, but reports are that turnout for football has been lighter than usual at Lakewood this year and the varsity numbers are down a little.

East Columbus has a strong Division I college prospect in free safety Demetrius McKelvie. The 6-foot-3, 205-pound McKelvie has earned All-Conference and All-County honors. McKelvie was unable to compete in pre-season scrimmages as he had to miss some practice days while off in Long Beach, Calif., competing for the Southeast All-Stars in the Area Code Baseball Classic.

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The News Reporter

Aggies smash Ashville

By Shannon J. Allen
The Reporter
Published August 30, 2008

ASHVILLE — Senior quarterback Jared Fontaine made sure Albertville’s first-ever meeting with Ashville entered the win column.

Fontaine rushed eight times for 123 yards and two touchdowns and completed three of four passes for 75 yards and two TDs to Madison Tharp, propelling the Aggies to a 38-14 triumph Friday night.

It was Albertville’s third consecutive victory in a season opener.

Ashville grabbed an early 7-0 lead when quarterback Barry Woods scrambled 6 yards for a touchdown.

Albertville answered with a nine-play, 69-yard drive Fontaine capped with a 13-yard scoring toss to Tharp with 1:57 left in the first.

The Aggies took the lead for keeps on Fontaine’s 76-yard dash to the end zone at the 9:38 mark of the second.

Albertville drove 54 yards on nine plays on its first series of the third period. Kane Hubbard scored on a 4-yard run with 6:15 remaining.

Fontaine connected with Tharp on a 52-yard scoring pass with 3:46 to play in the third.

The Bulldogs responded with a 65-yard drive that featured a 2-yard TD run by Courtney Williams.

Albertville then drove 74 yards in 11 plays. Fontaine scored from 2 yards out with 5:24 to play, giving the Aggies a 35-14 cushion.

Aggie linebacker Addison Powell recovered a Bulldog lateral at the Ashville 1-yard line.

Four plays later, Troy Simmons nailed a 21-yard field goal, making it 38-14.


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Quick-strike capability boosts Indians

Krysa's special teams play, defense help Fort Osage rally past Park Hill South

By Jason Tarwater
The Examiner
Posted Aug 30, 2008 @ 02:47 AM

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Independence, MO — With his team trailing in the final three minutes against Park Hill South, Dalton Krysa came through.

The Fort Osage running back – who rushed for 162 yards – made his impact on special teams, busting a 96-yard kickoff return for the game-winning score, as the Indians opened the season with a wild 28-20 win.

“I don’t know why they kicked it to him,” Fort Osage coach Ryan Schartz said. “I’m glad they did, though.”
Park Hill South seemed to take control of the game with 3:12 left, as Daniel Siehndel hit Frank Panilla for a 36-yard score. E.J. Gaines blocked the extra point, but Fort trailed late 20-14.
Enter Krysa.
A penalty against the Indians allowed Park Hill South to kick off from the 50. The ball went right to Krysa who hit a seam and ran up the middle of the field for the score.

“I didn’t know where they were going to kick it,” Krysa said, referring to himself and Gaines who also returns kicks. “They’d been going with both of us.”
Krysa said he had two thoughts in his head when he saw the field open up in front of him.

“Run as fast as you can, and don’t get tackled,” he said, laughing. “It just opened up. It felt good.”

While Dalton’s score won the game, Ian Mathis’ redemption clinched it.
Mathis, the Indian defensive back who was beaten on the 36-yard touchdown pass, more than made up for his mistake.

On the first play from scrimmage after Krysa’s touchdown, Mathis jumped a route, picked off Daniel Siehndel’s pass and raced 34 yards for the score to put the game away.

“They had been running the slant all night, but never threw to my side,” Mathis said. They showed a slant (on the touchdown pass) and I bit and couldn’t get back. I wanted to redeem myself.

“That (interception) saved my night. I’d have gone home and pouted all night.”
The final three minutes helped salvage what Schartz called an ugly overall season opener.

In the first quarter, the Indians lost three fumbles. One set up the Panthers’ first touchdown drive – which was capped by a 2-yard run by Siehndel. The third turned into a 36-yard scoop and score by Carlas Mosby to put the Panthers up 14-0 after one quarter.

Then Edward Pearl led the Indians back.
The junior quarterback, making his first start of the season, tossed a 28-yard score to a wide open Bret Sutton, before throwing a 32-yard score to Parker Jones. Jones appeared stopped near the 15-yard line, but broke through a number of tackles before fighting his way into the end zone.

“Park Hill South put a lot of guys in the box,” said Pearl, who threw for 204 yards in the first half and finished the night 18-of-24 for 243 yards with the two touchdowns and two interceptions. “They were crowding the line and our receivers got open.

“This felt pretty good, especially beating Park Hill South because they beat us last year.”

With three lost fumbles and the two interceptions – in addition to some crippling penalties that allowed Park Hill South to keep scoring drives alive – Schartz said he was happy with the win, but not with the game. For the game, Fort had nine penalties for 76 yards – including three 15-yard penalties.

“This is a tough football team,” Schartz said. “To overcome those penalties and turnovers showed toughness. But I’m not happy. We have a lot of things to work on and get under control. We’re going to go to work (Saturday).”

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The Examiner 410 S. Liberty, Independence, MO 64050

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Gallon guzzles 'Crabs

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Editor Note -- See Apopka Highlights this WFTV Video. Apopka is discussed at the 4:04 mark.
==============================================



By MICHAEL LEWIS
Staff Writer
DAYTONA BEACH -- Preseason games mean next to nothing.

And the team Seabreeze was playing Friday night, Apopka, might be the best squad in the state.

So therefore there wasn't too much concern from Sandcrabs head coach Marc Beach after the Blue Darters and their sensational quarterback, Jeremy Gallon, ran all over his team at Municipal Stadium.

Behind Gallon's 304 rushing yards and three touchdowns, Apopka rolled to a 39-0 victory in three quarters of varsity action.

"I think to stop him you'd have to shoot him," Seabreeze coach Marc Beach said of Gallon. "We knew they were going to be very good, but I don't think I expected this."

Seabreeze is breaking in new starters at all the skill positions in 2008, so understandably things were a little rocky Friday night at Municipal Stadium.

One of the Sandcrabs' best defensive players, safety Jonathan Scott, was among five players who didn't play Friday due to what Beach called "team issues," and linebacker Olajuwon Postell suffered a shoulder injury in the first quarter.

Even if they had an all-star team, though, Seabreeze would've had trouble handling Gallon. The Blue Darters' University of Michigan-bound quarterback was unstoppable in the first half. Gallon slithered through the tiniest holes in the Seabreeze defense, and once he was in open space he outraced everyone to the end zone.

Gallon scored on scampers of 14, 49, and 59 in the second quarter to put the game out of reach.

Great things are expected from Apopka this season; the Blue Darters advanced to the Class 6A semifinals in 2007, and they defeated Spruce Creek in the third round along the way. They're ranked No. 2 in the state preseason Class 6A poll.

Offensively, Seabreeze had trouble moving the ball. New starting quarterback, junior Matt Thompson, threw some nice passes for the 'Crabs, but Seabreeze never threatened to score. Thompson finished 3-of-9 for 27 yards.

"I think the big thing was we didn't hit any plays to give our offense some confidence, and then we left our defense on the field too long," Beach said. "We didn't get first downs and in this humidity, your defense is going to get tired."

Seabreeze will open its season Friday night against Spruce Creek at New Smyrna Beach Stadium at 7 p.m.

=====================================

The News-Journal - 901 Sixth Street - Daytona Beach, FL 32117

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Apopka High School - 555 W Martin St - Apopka, FL 32712

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SE offense sputters in loss / Bliss' Tigers Wing-it to a win

SE offense sputters in loss
Edwardsville starts season off wrong for Spartans again

By ROBERT BURNS
STATE JOURNAL-REGISTER
Posted Aug 30, 2008 @ 01:11 AM
Last update Aug 30, 2008 @ 10:14 AM

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Before the season began, Southeast High School coach Jeff Thomas talked about adversity and how his team hadn’t encountered any in the preseason.

In the season opener on Friday at Spartan Field, Thomas and his squad got more than their fair share in losing to Edwardsville 29-7 in the non-conference contest.

The Spartans’ defense played relatively well, including holding the Southwestern Conference representative to one third-quarter score in the second half.

But the offense sputtered, missing two scoring opportunities in the second quarter, albeit one that most thought the Spartans had taken away from them.

“It was a momentum breaker right there, we had the momentum going down in the end zone, but it’s OK, those things happen,” Thomas said.

Down 21-0 at the 6-minute mark of the second quarter, Southeast (0-1) took possession of a lost fumble on its own 34-yard line, moving 65 yards in a little more than 4 minutes to set up a second-and-goal on the Edwardsville 1.

Most Southeast fans thought their team went 66 yards, as Anthony Harrison spun on a third-and-goal and appeared to break the plane of the goal line. A scrum ensued, with the ball recovered by the Edwardsville defense in the end zone and ruled a touchback by officials.

“I’m not going to dwell on it, but I seriously know that changes the game,” Thomas said. “(A touchdown) keeps us in our game plan the whole night.”

Edwardsville (1-0) which had outscored the Spartans 133-2 in winning the previous three games, displaying a modified single wing offense under new coach Mark Bliss.

The end results were the same, as the Tigers posted 384 total yards, highlighted by 287 yards rushing. That was topped by quarterback Ishmiah Roundtree’s game-high 140 rushing yards and TD run of 39 yards that put his team up 29-0 early in the third quarter.

Running back Max Andresen opened the scoring in the first quarter, capping a four-play, 59-yard drive with a run from the 17 with 2:09 remaining. Andresen finished with 103 yards on 10 carries.

Roundtree showed off his passing ability in the second quarter, hitting Joe Randazzo and Kraig Rehkemper with TD passes of 40 and 16 yards. Sam Fink’s extra point and Gabe Carpenter’s 2-point conversion put the Tigers up 21-0 at the half.

“In terms of getting a win, we got a win,” Bliss said. “But in terms of finishing on drives, there were three drives that we did not finish on. We’ve got some work to do.”

Thomas, while basically admitting the same thing, emphasized the positive, in particular the play of junior running back Jonathan Rouse. Rouse posted a team-high 118 yards on 11 carries, scoring the home team’s lone TD on a 61-yard scamper with 1:36 left in the fourth quarter.

Rouse gave the fans a boost in the second quarter with a 64-yard kickoff return after doing just enough to keep the ball from going into the end zone.

That was a prelude to one of the should-have-been scores, as the Spartans went six yards on the following four plays, losing the ball on a recovered fumble on fourth-and-4.

“The defense did a great job,” Bliss said. “We’ve got 11 guys who fly to the ball. We teach our kids we want to run to the brown ball.”


==========================================
The State Journal-Register
One Copley Plaza
Springfield, IL 62701
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Team preview: Rocky Bayou Christian

August 29, 2008 - 1:36AM


By ADAM PRUIETT
adamp@nwfdailynews.com

NICEVILLE - Athleticism is unquestionably a necessity to build a quality football team.

But Rocky Bayou football coach John Reaves believes not having an endless supply of it doesn't mean a team can't be competitive. Other factors are nearly as important, and that's why Reaves has quickly grown fond of the Knights' inaugural football team.

"In order to be successful in football, you have to be very disciplined if you don't have incredible athletes. We don't have incredible athletes," Reaves said. "We have good, solid athletes with great discipline."

Discipline and smarts.

"The asset of intelligence can't be overlooked," Reaves said. "You've got to have great athletes to win. But if you have great athletes who are intelligent, it gives you an edge. And, if you have adequate athletes who are intelligent, it makes up for some of the shortfalls of just being adequate."

Rocky Bayou won't be a unique team in the area solely because it's a new program. Reaves has instituted the Single Wing, an old-fashioned offense that is distinctive because there's no true quarterback. Instead, there's a bevy of ballcarriers who could potentially throw.

"We don't have a quarterback. A quarterback is just a name," Reaves said. "We have guys who throw the football, we have guys who run the football."

Seniors Noah Mosley and junior Justin Lewis are the team's tailbacks, junior Billy Thomas is the fullback, sophomore James Waldron is the blocking back, and senior James Kaim, junior Scott Listak and sophomore Dion Wright are the wingbacks.

"We've got sufficient speed, we've got sufficient size," Reaves said. "If we need a yard, I believe we can get it."

Rocky Bayou's offense will contain two tight ends, and they are seniors Taylor Peacock and James Speegle.

Seniors Ben Donahue and Brian Redmon, junior Aaron Cain, sophomore Matthew Ruff, freshman Eddie Owens and Shawn Josey are slated for the offensive line.

"They're not just moving somebody out of the way so a back can run," Reaves said. "They're putting somebody in the dirt so a back can run."

On the defensive line, Thomas and Josey are set to take care of the interior while Peacock and Redmon are the defensive ends.

Lewis, Speegle, Mosley, Shannon Mosley and Waldron comprise the team's linebacking unit.

Lewis also could be in the defensive backfield, along with Kaim, Listak and freshman Chris Behnken.

"Our system is very, very much an attacking system," Reaves said. "We're not going to sit back and take what the offense gives us. We're going to try to make something happen.

"We're not blessed with enormous size, so we need to meet them in the backfield or catch them in the backfield and try to get the ball on the ground."

West Shamokin looks to turn things around

By Gavin Jenkins
LEADER TIMES SPORTS WRITER
Friday, August 29, 2008

West Shamokin opens the season tonight when it plays host to Allegheny Conference rival Burrell. Whether or not the Wolves improve upon their 2-8 record from a year ago will depend heavily on the effectiveness of their offense.

West Shamokin used four quarterbacks last season, and at times, the Wolves didn't use any, instead opting for the single-wing formation.

The single wing may return this season, according to West Shamokin coach Shawn Liotta, who also said he may rotate between two quarterbacks.


Juniors Brad Lutz (5--foot-10, 150) and Corey Brice (6-3, 210) might take turns under center for the Wolves, and each one brings something different to the table.

"Lutz has a nice arm, and he can run the ball," senior lineman Mike Priestas said. "Brice can certainly throw the ball down field. He's our home run threat."

During camp, Liotta said that Lutz had the upper-hand between the two quarterbacks. Lutz completed 15-of-29 passes last season for 119 yards with no touchdowns and three interceptions.

"Lutz started three games last year and has the experience," Liotta said. "They both can run and throw, and they're both hard-nosed football players."

The two-quarterback system is a direct result of the numerous injuries West Shamokin had last season, especially at the quarterback position with Dylan Henderson.

"I always like to have a back-up who gets a lot of reps, especially with our style of spreading people out," Liotta said. "Our kids are unselfish. With Lutz and Brice, if one is playing quarterback, the other will play receiver. They might have to play multiple positions."

West Shamokin's go-to running back this year will be senior Dave Ferringer (5-9, 165), who was the team's second leading rusher last season with 406 yards on 118 carries and two touchdowns.

"We have four seniors and a junior on the offensive line this year," Ferringer said. "They're a great group of guys, and I think they're going to get it done this year."

Priestas (6-0, 235) will start at center, Tyler Hunter (6-0, 225) and Cameron Cogley (5-10, 210) are the guards and Cody Weiland (6-4, 285) and Justin Cook (5-9, 195) line up at the tackles.

Ryan Lasher, who led the team in tackles last season with 75, will be the tight end.

"We need to push people off the football," Liotta said. "We need to be able to run the ball, control the clock. And, we need to stay healthy. We only had 18 healthy kids by the end of last season."

The Wolves have eight returning starters on offense and defense.

"I think if we come out and work hard, there's no reason why we shouldn't be in the playoffs," Liotta said.

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LEADER TIMES
11931 State Route 85, Suite E
P.O. Box 978
Kittanning, PA 16201

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West Shamokin High School - 178 Wolf Drive - Rural Valley, PA 16249

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Single-Wing Tidbits

Auburn Pick
by Roy Exumposted
August 29, 200

AUBURN – Tommy Tuberville has hired some tremendous under-talent in his coaching ranks and the Auburn team that will "spread" against La.-Monroe tomorrow could be frightening to other SEC teams when they review the tapes on Sunday. The "spread" offense, to the purist, is somewhat a variation of the old Tennessee single wing but, as was proven deadly under the General in Knoxville and in high school circles like South Pittsburg, the ability to "spread" a bewildered defense is a joy when you own it. Auburn has enough talent to make it lethal and La.-Monroe, a 20-point dog, will schedule somebody else for the opener in years to come. My Pick? Auburn, 51-7.

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Chattanoogan.com

PO Box 2331

Chattanooga, Tn., 37409

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Bird remains in constant motion

BY JOANNA CHADWICK
The Wichita Eagle

CONWAY SPRINGS - Senior Jaydan Bird had to be exhausted. He and his teammates had just finished one of 50 sprints during an early morning conditioning workout this summer.

Instead of standing still and catching his breath, though, Bird patted one teammate's shoulders, then lifted up another up by his head before slapping the hands of yet another teammate.

That's Bird.

Sitting still is not how he chooses to spend his time.

"He's always been like this," said his mother, Kristy Bird. "He's the active one. I've always kept him in tons of sports because it's the only thing to knock the energy out of him."

Bird, a 6-foot-2, 210-pound linebacker who has committed to Oklahoma, didn't take many breaks from sports this summer.

He spent the time lifting weights, running and learning Conway Springs' single-wing offense. Bird transferred from Andover Central during the winter to live with an aunt and uncle because his mom was taking his sick grandmother. His grandmother's health has improved, but Bird has decided Conway Springs is a good fit for him.

He did masonry work, lugging 70-pound bags of concrete, shoveling mud, carrying bricks. And he worked out three days a week with trainer Brian Butler.

Such a busy schedule has prepared Bird for the football season.

"That goes along with training," Bird said. "I believe some high school coaches, they run kids a lot... because most sit at home.

"I don't want to just sit."

•

Bird's definitely used to being on the go, which made his missing the last half of the 2007 Andover Central season with a spiral fracture in his left fibula especially frustrating.

In Week 4, he ran a sweep and after he cut back inside, he was hit low on one side and then hit on the other.

Bird still wanted to be on the field, he wanted to be going, going, going. Yet he was stranded on the sideline, forced to watch his teammates while wearing a boot.

"It was a good seven weeks before I was 100 percent.... I learned patience," Bird said. "Lots of it. People tell me patience is a virtue."

His mother laughed when she considered her son's patience.

"He wasn't quite as patient as he thought," she said. "He did learn because it slowed him down, too. He's very active all the time, wanting to move, do something, work, get better. And it really, when he was in the boot and the crutches, it slowed him down."

Bird insists the injury was a positive.

"That (time) probably molded me more than anything," he said. "Being patient, going along with it, learning. It gave me the mindset that you give it all, you can't leave anything, that I need to raise the bar even more. You do not know when your last down or last play is going to be. It could be now or in the NFL."

The injury also has intensified his desire to succeed in his senior season.

"No. 1, I want to make up for last season," he said. "That was a disappointment for me. I want to prove once again that I am a Division I football player and that I am going to be successful on the field."

Bird's also looking for a Class 3A title. Conway Springs is a favorite after finishing 10-3 and advancing to the semifinals in 2007.

The Cardinals return 16 starters, so adding Bird is a bonus.

On offense he's got speed and the ability to run over and through defenses. He's an even more potent force at linebacker, where he tracks the ball quickly and he's physical when he gets there.

•

Bird's always-on-the-move personality is part of why he chose to commit to Oklahoma. He will graduate in December and then move to Norman.

While he spoke of OU's tradition, its success and academics, a huge factor was that he sees himself playing for Sooners linebackers coach Brent Venables.

"My options were wide open before I committed. My mind was wide open... my linebackers coach, I see myself in him," Bird said. "He's a really fiery guy and he's go-go-go. He's nonstop. He's really outgoing and talkative."

Bird's personality is one reason he's fit in so well with his Conway Springs teammates.

"He works hard; he'll get in there and get after it and do what he needs to do," Conway Springs coach Lelin George said. "That fits in well with our kids."

It doesn't hurt that Bird has ties to Conway Springs beyond his aunt and uncle. He lived in Conway Springs until fifth grade.

"I grew up with them," he said. "I went to school with them, so it's not anything new."

•

The town of Conway Springs doesn't necessarily bring good memories for Jaydan.

In 1992, his dad, Jeff, died in a car crash just south of town. Jeff Bird, 21, was driving his two sons, Jaydan and Jordan, to buy Kristy a Valentine's Day present.

Jaydan, then 1, broke his collarbone in the crash, while Jordan, 2 ½, was paralyzed from the waist down.

Then, when Jaydan Bird was in fifth grade, there was a fire at his family's home, so the family moved out of town.

Bird has no memories of his dad, other than what his mom tells him --"She tells me stories, how I'm just like him," Bird said. He has some pictures, although most were lost in the fire.

As devastating as the loss of Jeff Bird was, Jaydan, Jordan and Kristy became closer because of it. That exists to this day, even though Jordan now is a successful wheelchair track athlete and attends Arizona on an athletic scholarship, while Jaydan is in Conway Springs heading soon to Oklahoma.

"The accident happened when (Jaydan) was 1, but I think these boys would have been good athletes anyway," said Kristy, who also has a 6-year-old son, Sami. "But they wouldn't have had the drive and determination to succeed if it hadn't been for the wreck.... It's a driving force."

So is Kristy.

Jaydan Bird has put in time and effort to become one of the state's best players.

But he's always had his mom right behind him.

"My mom pushes me," he said. "She pushes me and my brother to the limit. She wants us to be successful in everything we do. I think after the loss of my dad, I think it gave my mom motivation to make us even more successful. She's given us the edge, she's pushed us, she's done everything for us."

Powerful Maroons slip past Wrightstown

MENOMINEE, Mich. — Two-time defending Michigan Division 5 champion Menominee edged Wrightstown 30-28 in the season-opening game Friday.

The Maroons, using their trademark single-wing offense, surprised Wrightstown by airing out the ball. They attempted 46 passes, including 31 in the first half.

Most were thrown by 6-foot-4 fullback Jordan Maccoux. His favorite targets were 6-5 end Jacob Pederson and 6-4 end Justin Salzman.

"If you're going to win football games, you have to be able to stop (the passing game) and that's one thing we definitely have to work on," Tigers co-coach Steve Klister said.

"We played well, but we don't play to play well, we play to win," co-coach Bill Ehnerd said. "We had too many breakdowns in pass coverage and that's what killed us."

Wrightstown was able to hold down Menominee's passing game until it lost junior defensive back Steve Feldkamp to a knee injury in the first half. He never returned.

Two other Tigers defensive backs were sidelined for one or more series with cramps.

"We just couldn't match up with those two big receivers," Ehnerd said

Wrightstown's final score came when Brett Toseland intercepted a Maccoux pass and ran it 40 yards back for a touchdown, putting the Tigers up 28-24.

With 2:29 left, fullback Joe Schernick scored on a 5-yard run, capping a drive powered by passes of 14, 15 and 11 yards.

Wrightstown began its final drive with 2:24 left. Pennenberg completed a 23-yard pass to Toseland with 22 seconds left and Gerrits attempted a 29-yard field goal with 8 seconds left, but Menominee linebacker James Graham blocked the attempt.

Wrightstown 7 0 7 14 — 28

Menominee 6 6 6 12 — 30

W — Gerrits 22 pass from Pennenberg (Gerrits kick).

M — Pederson 38 pass from Maccoux (pass failed).

M — Schernick 1 run (pass failed).

W — Gerrits 44 run (Gerrits kick).

M — Martin 3 pass from Maccoux (pass failed)

WR — Wiese 18 run (Gerrits kick).

M — Pederson 65 pass from Maccoux (pass failed).

W — Toseland 43 int. return (Gerrits kick)

M — Schernick 3 run (pass failed).

Rushing — W: Matt Gerrits 8-73. M: Jeff Martin 7-54.

Receiving — W: Matt Gerrits 4-118. M: Jacob Pederson 8-169.

Passing: W: Andy Pennenberg 5-10-1-149. M:: Jordan Maccoux 17-41-3-332.

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Green Bay Press-Gazette - 435 E. Walnut St. - Green Bay, WI 54305

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Menominee High School - 2101 18th St - Menominee, MI 49858

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Patriots pumped to be winging it

Patrick Henry opens the season tonight with its version of the deceptive single-wing offense.
By Robert Anderson

Laughter. It's not exactly been a sound heard around Patrick Henry's football program in recent years.

Fourth-year head coach Bob Gray has been doing some chuckling this year, though.

Patrick Henry has installed the single-wing offense, the antiquated formation made famous in Virginia prep football by Giles High School, and so far Gray is enjoying the reaction from his peers.

"I've got coaching friends or people that were here before that are starting to hear that we're doing this, and it's hilarious," Gray said.

The Patriots will unveil the set at 7 tonight in their season opener against Bassett (1-0). Gray was somewhat secretive about his intentions before practice began, although PH has lined up in the single wing in its two preseason scrimmages.

"Bassett found out about this Friday night when we traded film," Gray said. "They called me Sunday and said: 'Coach, are you really doing that?' That's the reason I was not giving anybody any secrets ahead of time."

For 25 of his 28 years in the business -- which has included head-coaching stops at Fieldale-Collinsville and Staunton River -- Gray has used the multiple-I formation as his base offense.

Enter the single wing, in which there is no quarterback directly behind center and no wide receivers. PH will line up with two tight ends, a tailback, a fullback, a wingback and a blocking back.

Who says an old coaching dog can't learn new tricks?

"What got me excited about it was, when we first put tape on it, was how excited the coaches got," Gray said. "They were ready to do something different. I've actually tried to run it before, but I never committed to it. We're committed to it now."

Gray erased the old PH offense from the drawing board when Jeremy Haymore joined the Patriots' staff this summer after a two-year stint as the head coach at Appomattox County. Haymore, a former head coach at Eastern Montgomery and an ex-player under Gray at Staunton River, has been studying the single wing for much of the last decade.

"If he's not here, we are not in the single wing," Gray said. "He was the selling point. I'm not too big to admit that.

"It's a change for me every day in practice. Sometimes we have to stop and redraw. We have some discussions in here that some people would call heated."

Haymore, who coached against Giles when he was at EastMont from 2004-05, said retired Spartans coach Steve Ragsdale was a valuable source of help with the nuances of the offense.

"I got a chance to talk with Coach Ragsdale for several hours," Ragsdale said. "He was able to tell me things you couldn't get out of a book."

The single wing features shotgun snaps to multiple backs and is built on deception. Just ask PH players who saw it last year when the Patriots scrimmaged Appomattox.

"The first play went 15 yards down the field and we didn't know what was going on," PH lineman Kyle Smith said.

That sort of confusion is what the Patriots are banking on, particularly since opponents will have all of four practice days to get ready.

"I don't even know where the ball's going and I know the plays," lineman Larry Gunter said. "I can't wait to see how people are going to hold up against it."

While Gray tried to keep a lid on the news that PH might run the single wing, the version the Patriots are using is not a secret.

"We're going to take the ball and try to keep it from you," Gray said. "You've seen Giles run the buck lateral series. You've seen Giles run the power series. We're a power team. I don't know if we'll be successful at it, but we're going to take the ball and say, 'Here we come.'

"It's old-school football. We're not a spread team. We're not going to hide it."

Haymore agreed.

"A lot of people get caught up in the fancy part of it, but it's still 4 yards and get up and do it again," he said.

Senior Darren Thomas was PH's quarterback for the last three years. When he started practice in July, Thomas had been moved to wingback. Junior Terrell Wilson will handle many of the snaps this year as the tailback.

"It gives our kids more chances to be playmakers," Gray said. "Right now, Darren's making plays."

Perhaps PH has needed a fresh approach. The Patriots haven't finished over .500 since 2000 and have changed coaches three times since then. Gray might have to live with some ballhandling miscues to get a payoff at the back end.

"We've seen some good things out of it," Gray said. "We've seen some bad snaps out of it. We're going to find out Friday night."

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Roanoke Times • 201 W. Campbell Ave. • P.O. Box 2491 • Roanoke, Va. 24010-2491

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Patrick Henry High School - 31437 Hillman Highway - Glade Spring, VA 24340

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