Kansas Pregame 2013

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Volume 8 • 2013

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

Is this Kansas football’s coaching Golden Age?

Kansas

PREGAME

■ By Mark Schremmer For Kansas Pregame

There is no question that stability plays a big role in the success of a high school football program.

So it’s no coincidence that three of the most successful high school programs in Kansas have boasted stability at the top for more than 30 years.

Silver Lake’s C.J. Hamilton, Smith Center’s Roger Barta and St. Marys-Colgan’s Chuck Smith combine for 105 seasons, 988 wins, 39 state title game appearances, and 20 state championship victories at their respective schools.

You might say that it’s been a golden age of coaching in Kansas. Only six coaches have earned 300 wins in Kansas high school football history, and four of those coaches – Hamilton, Barta, Smith and McPherson’s Tom Young -- remained active until the end of last season.

Part of that golden era ended when Barta announced this past November that he was retiring from coaching at the age of 67. With Barta’s retirement and the lengthy careers of Hamilton, Young, Smith, Northern Valley’s Chuck Fessenden and Pike Valley’s Don Melby likely nearing an end, one has to wonder if we’ll ever again see so many longtime coaches around at the same time. What makes the tenures even more astounding is that all except for Young have achieved the success at primarily one school district.

“I knew I was getting to the point where I wasn’t getting around as well as I used to,” Barta said. “It was getting harder and harder. I didn’t want to cheat the kids if I couldn’t give it my all.”

Barta finished his 35-year career at Smith Center with a 323-68 record and eight state championships. His 323 wins place him fourth all-time in Kansas behind Hamilton (357), Clifton-Clyde’s Ed Buller (335), and Young (330).

Hamilton enters his 38th year at Silver Lake with a 357-84 record and seven state championships. He owns the state record for all-time wins and figures to keep adding to the total. The Eagles won a Class 3A state title as recently as 2010 and finished as runner-up in each of the past two seasons.

Smith enters his 34th season at Colgan and his 35th overall after coaching one season at Topeka Hayden before taking the job with the Panthers in 1980. He is 311-67 overall and 308-61 with five state championships at Colgan. Smith’s win total is sixth all-time and could pass Sedan’s Les Davis (316) this season.

The three coaches have provided their programs an uncommon level of consistency and familiarity. Fathers and sons have played under the same coach, often using many of the same plays and schemes that have worked for decades.

The stability at Smith Center was aided by assistant coach Dennis Hutchinson, who actually served as an assistant with the Redmen for a few years prior to Barta’s arrival, and the majority of the other Redmen assistants through the years played for Barta and Hutchinson.

“Our consistency was pretty good over the years,” Barta said. “Some years you lose a lot of talent, but I was proud that we were able to be consistent. We were able to do that, because my coaches always stayed with me.”

Hamilton graduated from Silver Lake in 1969 and is about to begin his fifth decade as the Eagles’ head coach. He took the post in 1973 and has led the Silver Lake program ever since, except for a two-year hiatus from 1977-78 when he was an assistant at Washburn University.

Smith took over the Colgan program from KSHSAA Hall of Fame coach Frank Crespino, who led the Panthers from 1961-79 and won state titles in 1974 and 1975.

Talk about stability, Colgan has had only two head coaches for more than 50 years. To put it in perspective, every other Crawford-Neosho-Cherokee League school has had more than two head football coaches in the past 15 years.

The consistency at Colgan has extended to assistant Wayne Cichon, who has been the Panthers’ defensive coordinator for more than 30 years.

But is it more difficult for a coach to stick around at one school than what it used to be?

“Things have changed,” Barta said. “Everybody wants to win all the time now, and that’s not going to happen all the time. It’s not about winning or losing. It’s about the kids learning something.”

Smith agreed that things have changed a great deal in his more than 30 years as a coach.

“Times are different,” Smith said. “Society is a little softer than it was 30 years ago. There were coaches who used to coach by intimidation. I don’t know if you could do that today. You got to be a little more politically correct than you used to have to be.”

However, there is another wave of longtime Kansas coaches who have found sustained success. Some have done so at one school, and others have moved around.

Hutchinson’s Randy Dreiling, Gardner-Edgerton’s Marvin Diener, Centralia’s Larry Glatczak, Oakley’s Randall Rath, Holton’s Brooks Barta, Wallace County’s Kevin Ayers, Riley County’s Steve Wagner, Hayden’s Bill Arnold, Osborne’s Steve Tiernan, Hope’s Jeff Hostetter, and Paola’s Mike Dumpert are just a few of the next generation of coaches who are looking to unseat Barta, Hamilton, Smith and Young at the top of the all-time wins chart.

But this group will have to deal with what many consider a more competitive climate.

“A lot of good coaches leave for various reasons,” Glatczak said. “Twenty years ago, people may have been more patient. It may be tougher to stay at one place than it used to be.”

However, Glatczak has been an exception. He enters his ninth season as head coach at Centralia. He boasts two state championships and a 76-19 record.

Glatczak is a 1986 Centralia graduate and has worked for the Centralia school district since 1992. His wife, Janelle, also a Centralia grad, coaches track and field. Their sons, Tyler and Michael, were quarterbacks on state championship teams.

So for Glatczak, Centralia is a perfect fit and he doesn’t plan on leaving anytime soon.

“I looked at different job opportunities several years back,” Glatczak said. “But God does things for certain reasons. I’m glad they didn’t work out. It was pretty special coaching my sons. And I treat them all like my kids. It’s been special. I don’t know what it’s like to be in any other school district.”

Welcome to Kansas Pregame 2013! For the past eight years Kansas Pregame has provided the most complete preview of high school and college football in the Sunflower State. We are proud to provide this coverage of all levels of Kansas football and are excited about a new, more concise format for our publication. We continue to partner with Kpreps.com to provide comprehensive coverage of Kansas high school football on the web and you can find digital editions of all our publications online at http://issuu.com/1660publishing.

John Baetz & Bree McReynolds-Baetz Publishers Co-owners of Sixteen 60 Publishing Co., publishers of the Lincoln Sentinel and Chapman News-Times weekly newspapers, and sports preview magazines Kansas Pregame, Kansas Mat Preview and Kansas Hardwood.

Layout and Design: Kayla Kvacik Sponsorship Sales: John Baetz, Tyler Gier, James Westling Contributing writers: Melanie McGee, Conor Nicholl, Mark Schremmer, Tom Witherspoon Contributing photographers: Matt Gilmore, Marion McReynolds, Everett Royer, Carla Wehmeyer, Jim Williams Acknowledgments: With a project of this size and scope we can’t possibly thank all the people that have contributed, but a special thanks goes out to the school secretaries, athletic directors, coaches and parents who helped us secure team information. Thank you to the advertisers who made this possible - without your support this publication would not be a reality. To all those involved with the completion of this publication in any way, thank you.

Mail inquiries to johnbaetz@gmail.com or Kansas Pregame, PO Box 186, Lincoln, KS 67455 Publication date: Volume 8, August 9, 2013 For a complete list of free distribution locations visit kpreps.com/magazine.php.

Kansas Pregame Football Magazine was founded by John and Bree Baetz and Tim McGonagle in 2005.

Thank you to Crawford County Convention and Visitors Bureau and Pittsburg State University for hosting the 2013 cover shoot.

For more information about Crawford County visit the CVB website at visitcrawfordcounty.com.

RUDER OIL CO.

Mark Schremmer is a sports reporter for the Joplin (Mo.) Globe. He has covered sports in Kansas since 2000.

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

HIGH SCHOOL

Page 3

table of contents Iron Will PAGE 4

Class 6A PAGE 13

Class 5A PAGE 19

Class 4A PAGE 27

Class 3A PAGE 40

Class 2-1A PAGE 52

8-Man D-I

PAGE 63

8-Man D-II PAGE 73

Schedules

PAGE 83

Supporting Kansas youth in all their endeavors

Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

Page 4

Work in the weight room fuels success on the gridiron With the birth of modern college football weight training at the University of Nebraska under strength coaching legend Boyd Epley in the early ‘70s the modern football offseason training regiment changed, not only for every college program in the country, but eventually at the high school level.

Now, weight training and football (and for that matter most other sports) are synonymous. While in the early days of strength training coaches carried concerns that musclebound athletes would be slower and more susceptible to injury, years of improved performance as a result of work in the weight room has demonstrated that strength training programs are the key to speed and power development and injury prevention and may be the single most important factor in the success of a football program.

In the following features Kansas Pregame will take a look at some of the state’s strongest and most athletic players who developed those traits

thanks in large part to their “Iron Will” in the weight room.

The features are a look at not just the biggest and strongest players in the state, but players, that while they may be shorter or smaller, have achieved maximum results and are pound-for-pound among the strongest in Kansas.

The features also examine the development of the players’ respective football programs and the impact the weight room has had on the overall success of not just the individual players, but the football program as a whole.

Certainly these are just a few of the literally hundreds of athletes in the state who have posted impressive numbers in the squat, clean, bench, 40 yard dash, or vertical jump, and Kansas Pregame would like to hear of other athletes with impressive weight room statistics.

Please e-mail suggestions for next year’s coverage to johnbaetz@gmail. com.

In mid-June, 13 athletes made the trip to the new F.A.S.T. (Fitness and Strength Together) facility at Hays High School for the Iron Will photo shoot. The new strength training facility was built through a cooperative effort of the community and the school district and is one of the top weight training facilities in all of western Kansas. Advanced Exercise Equipment was the equipment supplier for the facility and the sponsor of the Iron Will features. For more information about Advance Exercise Equipment, the top weight training facility designer in the Midwest, visit advancedexercise.com.

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Photo by Everett Royer, ksportsimages.com

IRON WILL: Derby Panthers ■ By Conor Nicholl For Kansas Pregame

Derby senior safety Travis Young wore a constant smile during the photo shoot for Kansas Pregame magazine in mid-June at Hays High School. Young easily talked with his two teammates, running back Tyler West and linebacker Jose Delgado, and exuded a comfortable, confident presence, a demeanor that comes from working hard to become one of Kansas’ best defensive backs – and one of the leaders for possibly the state’s most talented team.

Derby is loaded with talent, including Young, West and Delgado, all Division I prospects. Coach Brandon Clark returns six offensive and four defensive starters from a 10-2 season - many entering their third year starting, a rarity in class 6A - and also inherits Garden Plain transfer Caleb Arnold, a big, fast quarterback and safety.

“Our biggest thing is family,” West said. “If we have a big family, then we can pretty much do anything.”

Young was a relative unknown nationally until he attended the Rivals Camp Series in Arizona and has received interest from Kansas State, Kansas and Oklahoma, among others.

He already has a scholarship offer from Southern Illinois.

West attended the UnderArmour camp in Tampa and received national attention. Delgado was one of two juniors named to the Wichita Eagle All-Metro Team. Young said it’s possible all three, and other teammates, could sign with D-I teams.

This fall, though, Derby has focused on winning a state championship for the second time in school history, the first since 1994. The Panthers have lost in the Class 6A sub-state championship the last two seasons.

The weight room is a critical part of Derby’s return to dominance under Clark. The team lifts at 6:30 a.m. and then some teammates will get together for 7-on-7 throughout the day.

“Brings us together even more,” Young said.

TRAVIS YOUNG, JOSE DELGADO, TYLER WEST

DERBY PANTHERS / Continued on page 62

IRON WILL: Hays Indians; TMPIRON Monarchs WILL ■ By Conor Nicholl For Kansas Pregame

Photo by Everett Royer, ksportsimages.com

PRESTON WEIGEL & AARON MOORE

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In the spring, Hays High School’s Preston Weigel was playing catch in the school gymnasium when he broke his tibia. Weigel missed the rest of track season and was still limping in mid-June. Weigel, though, is expected to be healthy and cleared by August, a critical part of the Indians’ quest for a fourth Western Athletic Conference title and third straight playoff berth under fifth-year coach Ryan Cornelsen.

“I should be good and going,” the soft-spoken Weigel said.

Weigel is already the best wrestler in Indian history with a state runner-up showing as a freshman and back-to-back dominant state crowns the last two years. He has lost just three matches in three years and is likely one of the nation’s best come winter.

Helped by the Indians’ weight room, Weigel wrestled at 145 pounds as a freshman, but competed at 195 pounds last winter.

“Genetics and eating good,” Weigel said with a smile.

This fall, Weigel, a fullback/linebacker, and heralded junior quarterback Alex Delton are easily the two most experienced and talented Indian players.

Delton, ranked as the No. 2 quarterback at the Rivals Underclassmen Challenge held in early July in Dallas, collected 1,198 passing yards and 640 rushing yards with a 15/5 TD/INT ratio and 10 rushing scores on the Indians’ 7-3 team last year that outscored opponents 367-279.

Weigel collected 553 rushing yards during the regular season. Up front, the Indians return all-conference selections Kenny Rounkles and Brandon Hardwick, but lose allstate center/nose guard Cade Sharp.

“We are both going to have to play hard, be part of the team,” Weigel said. “Like the line, we are going to have to keep everyone healthy, not get hurt.”

Defensively, at times, it was 10 seniors and Weigel in 2012. This year, Weigel is the senior member of the defense that allowed 27.9 points per game, but was better than the numbers. Many times, especially in a 51-34 Week 3 win against Liberal, the Indians allowed points when the game was out of reach. Delton is expected to start in the defensive backfield after he rarely played defense last year.

Weigel, Delton and the supporting cast will be well-prepared for the season because of Cornelsen’s well-known weightlifting program and Hays High’s brand-new weight room. While the weight room was a hot-button topic in Hays for months, one fact was never denied: The Indians’ previous weight room didn’t match up to other Class 5A schools.

Cornelsen, who is 29-9 at Hays High and has four straight boys’ state track titles, had to make do with a small weight room next to the gym for his first several years.

Now HHS has a facility on par with other big high schools and many small colleges.

The facility also has a sprint area that can be used for agilities, plyometrics and even track practice if the weather is poor.

In-kind donations and the players selling gift cards has helped the financial process, too.

“It’s important,” Weigel said.

Since the injury, Weigel has still lifted daily, but has just worked on his upper body.

Before the injury, Weigel had maxed out in clean between 320 and 340 pounds and his bench was between 345 and 350 pounds. Weigel has especially strong forearms – great for wrestling – because of daily exercises.

The Indians have plenty of solid athletes back, too. At the High Plains Sports Combine in the spring, Kevin Rounkles took ninth in overall athletic rating – and first among linemen – with 3,360 points. Kenny Rounkles was 12th with 3,341 points, Hardwick was 13th with 3,283 points. Delton has ran a 4.52 40-yard dash and has already received a scholarship offer from Kansas State. The 6-foot, 185-pound Delton has a 245-pound max in bench press, a 415-pound squat max and a 31-inch vertical, according to Rivals.com.

Thomas More Prep’s Aaron Moore Aaron Moore didn’t see time on varsity and saw little action on junior varsity as a Thomas More Prep-Marian freshman. Then, Moore decided to get in the weight room and work as hard as possible.

Two-plus years later, the 6-foot-1, 250-pound Moore holds the Monarch squat record at 475 pounds and was close to the hang clean and bench marks in mid-June. Moore, an offensive and defensive lineman, is expected to be one of the top players for a Monarch team that looks to improve from a 2-7 season last year.

“My goals are just to be as best as I can, just work as hard as I can, and help my teammates along with that,” Moore said. “Make sure they are at their best, so we can play good this fall.”

Moore has helped the Monarchs’ weight program under John Montgomery, a former Fort Hays State University player in his fourth year at TMP, and second as head coach.

“It’s exciting to see, and we will see how it plays out onto the field this year,” Montgomery said.

The Monarchs, traditionally known for basketball and baseball, haven’t made the playoffs in football since 2002, but did go 5-4 two falls ago and missed the postseason by one game.

This year, the Monarchs return eight offensive and 10 defensive starters. Moore is the biggest returning starter, but the team has three returning starters over 200 pounds, a rarity for a school not known for great size. As well, for the second year, TMP’s staff includes Colby McKinney and Ricky Jacques, both former Ft. Hays football players.

“When Aaron came in as a freshman, he definitely had a lot of development to do,” Montgomery said. “As we have worked on our weight program over the last four years, he has bought in 100 percent and his success last year and then coming into this year, I think can be directly tied to the commitment that he has made on a daily basis in season and then out of season to get bigger, to get faster and to get stronger.”

MOORE / Continued on page 49

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IRON WILL: Holton Wildcats ■ By Tom Witherspoon

Photo by Everett Royer, ksportsimages.com

For Kansas Pregame

JAKE RIEDERER

After going undefeated, 14-0, and shutting out Eudora, 21-0, in the title game in 2012, Holton could power its way to another championship behind the size and experience of the offensive line.

Five returning starters on the O-line weigh over 235 pounds: Dalton Beightel (5-10, 235), Alex Coder (6-0, 245), Bradley Hooper (5-11 260), Cooper Zeller (6-2, 295), Cooper Allen (5-10, 265) and Jake Riederer (6-3, 275). In addition to Kyle Mick, another returning starter, and newcomers Clayton Folk (6-0, 180), Ryan Lierz (6-0, 190), Mason Baum (6-0, 180) and Ryan Clark (6-0, 175), the bench will fill in with even more guys weighing over 220: Daniel Gordan (6-5, 245), Matt Falconer (6-2, 220), Jordan Mick (5-10, 265), Shawn Quetone (6-0, 225), Mason Alford (6-1 275), Matt Doud (6-1 270) and Josh Myrick (6-2 270).

None of them excel in the weight room as well as Riederer though, a senior looking to repeat as a state champion before moving on to play college football. Riederer, who can bench-press 225 pounds 24 times and runs a 5.37-second 40-yard dash, is looking at a number of FCS and Division II schools in the area.

“I’m going to the place that is the right fit for me,” says Jake, who enjoys being a blocker at Holton because it is in a “very physical offense.”

Jake’s father, Russ, a strength coach for 25 years, including 14 years for the Chicago Bears, said “...the best place might be in the MIAA. I think that’s a great brand of football.”

The Mid-American Intercollegiate Athletics Association, a top conference in Division II, is already home to four other Holton players: Adam Luthi, a sophomore tight end at Washburn; Jaxon Wright, a freshman defensive back at Pittsburg State; Cameron Karn, a freshman defensive back at Emporia State; and Tyler Burdiek, a freshman tight end at Washburn.

Russ is on the Advisory Board for the Raycom College Football All-Star Classic based in Montgomery, Ala. “Last year, the most valuable player was from Division II,” Russ said, alluding to Missouri Western running back Michael Hill, the most valuable offensive player.

“It doesn’t matter if you played at Tennessee or Missouri Western or Washburn, the NFL’s just looking for players.”

So far, two very different places have been right for Jake, Russ’s youngest son.

Russ moved his family from Chicago after the 2004 season back to his hometown of Holton. Rob, Russ’s oldest son, is a red-shirt freshman linebacker at Tulsa who tore his ACL before the start of his gray-shirt year in 2012.

“Both places were great places to live,” said Jake. “The neighborhoods were both great places to grow up and there’s not much difference between the two.”

Since moving back, Russ has rekindled old friendships with people “whose roots run deep,” and met many new people who moved into Holton since he left in the 1970s to play football at K-State, where he also started his coaching career from 1980-’86. After working under his fourth head coach with the Bears, Lovie Smith, following Mike Ditka, Dave Wannstedt, and Dick Jauron, he “retied and came home.

The program here has been a great experience for my boys.”

Jake and Rob have totally different bodies. Jake, a 6-foot-3, 275-pound lineman, has 55 pounds on Rob, a 6-foot, 220-pound linebacker. Both have the “measureables” to play college football.

“That gets you to a certain point,” said Russ. “It gets you a chance, but it does not guarantee you anything.”

And Russ always emphasized the whole athlete in their training rather than “weightlifing.”

“I never wanted my sons to be weightlifters,” said Russ. “That does not guarantee anything in terms of performance. I always asked my sons to train. There’s a difference between lifting and training. It’s not how much you can lift at a particular moment; it’s athleticism, balance, strength and power.”

Holton will again run the pistol wishbone behind Riederer and company this season, putting the quarterback in a short shotgun snap with three backs behind him in the backfield. Whichever way the play goes, Riederer, the center, will be directing traffic and moving the defense to pave the way.

Tom Witherspoon is the former editor of Vype Magazine in Wichita and has covered high school sports in Kansas since 2007.

IRON WILL: Beloit Trojans ■ By Conor Nicholl

Photo by Everett Royer, ksportsimages.com

For Kansas Pregame

BRYCE BLACK, PAYTON VETTER, BOWE BEHYMER

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Beloit has consistently been a state power in the Class 3A ranks under eighth-year coach Greg Koenig. The Trojans have won at least seven games every year since 2006 and posted 10-2, 8-3, 10-3, 9-3 and 12-1 marks the last five seasons.

However, Koenig believes his program has reached a higher level in the last three falls with a trip to the state semifinals in 2010, quarters in 2011 and then semis again in 2012.

In those three years, the Trojans have continued to run their double-wing offense, a rare but extremely successful look, and incorporated a rarely-run 10-1 defense.

“The combination of our unique offensive and defensive styles have helped us, and we have just been blessed with a lot of great kids and a lot of outstanding assistant coaches as well,” Koenig said.

The team has looked to play with a fast and aggressive mindset, a process that’s started through weight room work. The team lifts not only during the summer, but also during school hours. Koenig also teaches a zero hour class before school and allows eighth-graders to start lifting in the spring semester if they want to play high school football.

“When you look at our kids, you can see the results,” Koenig said. “I can’t imagine we would be nearly as successful without the weightlifting program that we have developed.”

This fall, Beloit returns a core quartet of senior quarterback Payton Vetter, senior running backs Bowe Behymer and Tanner Niemczyk and senior lineman Bryce Black for a team that is on a short list to win a Class 3A championship.

Vetter and Black enter their fourth years as starters. Niemczyk began to start as a defensive back midway through his sophomore year, and Behymer became a starter as a defensive lineman/linebacker as a sophomore. Beloit had its camp in mid-July, and Koenig said those four players are the ones the rest of the team follows and looks up to.

Black is a state powerlifting champion and has several school marks benching 350 pounds and squatting an incredible 540. Behymer is pound-for-pound one of the strongest players in the state benching 275, cleaning 295 pounds, and squatting 365 while weighing only 167 pounds and standing only 5-foot-8. Vetter is the rare fouryear starter at quarterback and while he doesn’t boast the incredible strength numbers of Black and Behymer his work in the weight room has led to an impressive 285 pound power clean, considered by most football’s most important lift. Vetter benches 250, can squat 365, and runs a 4.7 second 40 yard dash with a 29 inch vertical leap.

“We couldn’t ask for a better core of leaders,” Koenig said.

Vetter has never missed a game and has always started the last two seasons on defense at free safety. He could move up closer to the line of scrimmage this year because of personnel changes. Vetter played quarterback in the younger ranks, and when he reached high school, Beloit didn’t have a lot of options under center. Vetter, now 6-foot-2, 190 pounds, had the size where he could already compete at the varsity level.

Last year, Koenig said the team entered training camp in better shape “by far” than any team he had ever had.” The Trojans led Kansas 11-man teams in scoring offense, and collectively beat teams 744-174. Beloit led eventual champion Scott City at halftime, but lost 42-26 in sub-state. Koenig believed it was a team that believed it could play with anyone.

The Trojans finished plus-19 in turnover margin and scored 13 non-offensive touchdowns, including six fumble returns and three interception returns for scores.

“It (the 10-1 defense) really has added the identity that we have attempted to create with the double wing of being a very physical and aggressive team that’s going to be in your face all night,” Koenig said.

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IRON WILL: Lyndon Tigers ■ By Conor Nicholl

Photo by Everett Royer, ksportsimages.com

For Kansas Pregame

By the measure of postseason advancement, there is no question Lyndon is currently enjoying the best stretch of football under seventh-year coach Rod Stallbaumer. Until 2006, Lyndon was 1-8 all-time in the playoffs with the lone victory a 28-27 victory against Troy in 1997.

Since then, the Tigers are 6-6 in the postseason. That includes trips to the Class 2-1A quarterfinals in 2006 and ‘07 and a sub-state championship game appearance last year.

However, Lyndon has always been the second or third best team in the east, most recently behind Centralia, which has two state championships and a runner-up showing last year.

The Tigers are 1-5 all-time in the playoffs against Centralia, including 0-3 in the last five years. The lone victory was a 24-22 second-round showing in 2006.

Lyndon lost 34-14 to Centralia last year, 70-17 in 2009 and 62-0 in 2008. The Tigers also fell 49-6 in 2001 and 51-24 in 1997.

“We had never been that far, so experience was kind of a lack there,” running back Josh Owens said of last fall. “We didn’t play our best game like we should have, and I think that overall led to us losing.”

The brief history brings Lyndon to a crossroads in 2013.

Centralia is the heavily favored No. 1 team in Class 2-1A, and on paper, Lyndon is the second-best team in the east.

“We still have pretty high expectations,” Owens said.

If Lyndon is to reach the state championship game in Hays, it’ll likely come because of the play of quarterback Joe Walsh, Owens and plenty of preparation in the Tiger weight room.

“Coach Stallbaumer, just pushing us in the weight room and on the field,” Walsh said of Lyndon’s success. “He has got us in a lot of different programs.

We have got minicamps and film all the time. He always pushes us to be the best that we can be. He is looking to build one of the best 2A programs in the state of Kansas.”

In addition to six playoff berths in the last seven years, Lyndon also outscored opponents 582-72 and finished No. 1 in Class 2-1A in scoring defense and second in scoring offense.

The Tigers graduated Skyler Farwell, who rushed for 1,196 yards for 25

JOSH OWENS, JOE WALSH

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IRON WILL: Osborne Bulldogs; Wallace Co. Wildats ■ By Conor Nicholl

Photo by Everett Royer, ksportsimages.com

For Kansas Pregame

In the last three years, Osborne is well-known for two areas: offense and speed. After years of struggling in the 11-man ranks, Osborne moved down to eight-man three years ago and posted marks of 10-2, 10-2 and 6-3. In each of the first two seasons, the Bulldogs reached the Eight-Man, Division I sub-state championship game.

In 2010, Osborne ranked third with 580 points in the classification.

In 2011, the Bulldogs stood second with 658 points and running back Damon Schurr set the eight-man record for total touchdowns in a single year with 51, according to the Kansas Sports Hall of Fame.

Last year, the Bulldogs tallied 424 points and ranked tenth. Only Madison has scored more points in the classification in the last three seasons. This season, Osborne will again have a strong offense and be among the top Eight-Man, Division I teams because of several speedy playmakers.

That speed forms from third-year coach Steve Tiernan’s coaching career and his own mantras. Tiernan was on legendary Liberal coach Gary Cornelsen’s staff from 1994-97 and saw firsthand how Cornelsen combined football, the weight room and track.

Cornelsen went 105-15 with the Redskins and won 14 straight track championships, easily the best in Kansas history. Tiernan has followed the slogans of “get better everyday” and “do your job” in building powers at Baileyville B&B and having a 16-5 record in his first two years with Osborne.

“He is a person who knows the game, he knows how to motivate people on and off the field,” current B&B coach Justin Coup said. “You can tell that by the way the kids work in the weight room. They are motivated to make sure they are getting better. He is also a person who makes sure you support each other. He doesn’t coach just the all-stars.

He coaches everybody.”

Senior Kenton Ubelaker, entering his fourth year as a defensive starter, returns after he tallied 2,140 all-purpose yards, including 1,136 rushing.

He also collected 67 tackles and seven interceptions. As a sophomore, he picked up 116 tackles, three tackles for loss and two sacks.

Senior Maverick Lerock rushed for 789 yards and collected 933

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UBELAKER & WALKER / Continued on page 62

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

Page 13

Class 6A

By Kansas Pregame staff It’s been a while since the Derby Panthers won a state football championship. It’s happened once in school history - in 1994 - when the Panthers of head coach Tom Young capped an unbeaten season with a 21-0 win over Lawrence.

Eighteen years later, the Panthers looked to be on their way to possibly winning a second title before suffering a crushing 29-28 loss to Hutchinson in last year’s Class 6A semifinal playoff game.

Hutchinson went on to lose a fivepoint decision to Shawnee Mission West in the state finals, while Derby stayed home, licking its wounds from the week before.

Well, the Panthers of head coach Brandon Clark are back once again and are one of the favorites to lift the championship trophy on November 30 in Topeka.

Clark, who is entering his 10th season at Derby, welcomes back 10 starters from last year’s 10-2 team that lost twice to Hutchinson by a grand total of four points.

Tight end DeAndre Goolsby (6-5, 225), safety Travis Young (6-1, 205), running back Tyler West (6-0, 210) and linebacker Jose Delgado (5-10, 190) could be as good as any other players in the state at those respective positions. The Panthers should be strong up front as well with center Kyle Haugh (5-9, 220), guard Kohl Yoder (6-0, 210) and tackles Cole Hansen (6-3, 270) and Tanner Anderson (6-4, 235) returning.

That total for returning starters is misleading because Derby also will have several talented newcomers in the fold, including Garden Plain transfer Caleb Arnold, who will start at safety, and quarterback Jeremy Dunham, who started at wide receiver last year before an injury ended his season.

“We have some experience coming back, but we also have a

lot of holes to fill with seniors who graduated,” Clark said. “We have a lot of work to do to get to where we ended up last year. We need to find some vocal leaders and create team chemistry.”

Hutchinson will be right there once again as one of the premier football programs in the state. The Salthawks reached the state championship game for the ninth time in 10 years in 2012, but lost a tough 19-14 decision to Shawnee Mission West after leading by eight points (14-6) at halftime.

After a few bumps in the road – including a 25-point loss at home to Salina South - the Salthawks of head coach Randy Dreiling were right back where they always are in November: in the hunt for a state championship.

Hutchinson returns nine starters from a 10-3 team, including six on the defensive end. Turner Wintz will move from defense to offense and replace Trevor Turner at quarterback. Turner’s younger brother junior linebacker Colby Turner – will help lead the defense.

The schedule, once again, will be a tough one for the Salthawks, who will face Rockhurst, Salina South and Derby in a four-week period.

Topeka High has made great strides under head coach Walt Alexander and 2013 could be another banner season for the Trojans.

Seven starters and 19 lettermen return from a 9-2 team that lost to Hutchinson in the quarterfinals of the playoffs.

The Trojans have good ones in senior Austin Tillman (6-1, 195) a running back and linebacker, and junior Alec Beatty (6-0, 170), who moves to quarterback this season and also was an all-league safety.

The offensive line will be big (290 average) and athletic, but inexperienced.

Wichita Heights has a new coach in Terry Harrison, who spent one

PLAYERS TO WATCH

GREYSON TEMPEL

Photo by Jim Williams

Courtesy photo

TRAEVOHN WRENCH

year as the Falcons’ KPREPS.COM PRESEASON RANKINGS defensive coordinator before replac1. Derby ing Rick Wheeler.

2. Shawnee Mission West Heights was 7-3 last 3. Hutchinson year, finished second 4. Lawrence Free State in the City League to 5. Gardner-Edgerton 5A champion Bishop Carroll and returns Others: Blue Valley Northwest, Manhattan, Olathe East, Olathe North, Topeka, Wichita Heights, Wichita Northwest 16 starters in hopes of moving back to the top of the league and only six interceptions last year standings. and will lead an offense with four Of those nine starters on defense, returning starters. three are back on the line, includOn the eastern half of the bracket ing 6-1, 260-pound senior Aderio in Class 6A, all eyes will be on Ammons, who is one of the state’s Shawnee Mission West after the best at his position. Also back after Vikings came from behind in the earning first-team All-City honors is second half for a stunning 19-14 senior defensive back Kyle Martin. victory over Hutchinson in the 6A Wichita Northwest features 10 state championship game. starters from a 6-4 team, including The Vikings of head coach Tim one of the state’s top running backs Callaghan were 12-1 last year and in senior Deron Thompson, who Sunflower League champions. rushed for 1,476 yards as a junior.

They return 13 starters, including The 5-9, 175-pounder is one of the two of the state’s top players in state’s top sprinters as well. Jordan 6-5, 265-pound offensive lineman Bell (6-0, 220) was also first-team Austin Chambers, who has comAll-City as a linebacker and Joe mitted to Brigham Young, and 6-1, Stevens was the league’s top punt175-pound defensive back Andre er and also played linebacker.

Maloney, who has a commitment to “The back seven on both sides Kansas. of the ball are very talented,” head “This is a hard-working group of coach Steve Martin said. “They will seasoned players who want to conhave to anchor the team until the tinue the Viking football tradition,” offensive and defensive lines gel.”

Callaghan said. “They have high All five starters on the offensive expectations and are ready for the line are gone from last year and the challenge. They will be eager to same goes for the defensive line. prove themselves.”

Dodge City will look to be a Olathe East returns 13 starters factor in the west after needing a from a 6-5 team that reached the Sportscenter highlight interceptsecond round of the state playoffs. ed errant snap turned 78 yard If the Hawks can get consistent Immanuel Galloway touchdown play from a new quarterback, they against rival Garden City to snap a could be one of the best teams in four game losing streak and deliver the east. a district runner-up finish and fifth Dustin Delaney left Emporia in consecutive playoff trip last season.

May to take the Shawnee Mission The Red Demons return one of East job vacated by Chip Sherman, the state’s best signal callers in who took over at Olathe Northwest.

6-5, 195 senior quarterback Kelan Gene Wier enters his second seaNewton. Newton passed for nearly son at Olathe North and with 2,500 yards with 20 touchdowns 6A OVERVIEW / Continued on page 31

In addition to the players featured on the cover and inside back cover, these players are just a few of the best to keep an eye on in Class 6A this fall.

DEANDRE GOOLSBY 6-5, 225, TE, DERBY

overview

5-11, 180, QB, GARDEN CITY

RA’KEIM ABDUL

6-1, 206, RB, GARDNER-EDGERTON

6-0, 185, SR., WR/DB, SM SOUTH

File photo

Courtesy photo

Aderio Ammons.............6-0, 250, Sr, DL, Wichita Heights

Daniel Mathiasen..........6-8, 310, Sr, OL, Wichita North

Dominique Atkinson ....5-10, 300, DT, SM East

Dimonic McKinzy...........6-0, 200, Sr, QB/ATH, KC Wyandotte

Jordan Bell......................6-0, 215, Sr, LB, Wichita Northwest

Kelan Newton................6-5, 195, Sr, QB, Dodge City

Demetrius Berry............6-3, 265, Sr, OL/DL, SM South

Logan Powell..................6-3, 235, Sr, DE, Gardner-Edgerton

Dominique Berry...........6-3, 275, Sr, OL/DL, SM South

Jason Randall.................5-10, 175, Sr, RB, Leavenworth

Austin Chambers...........6-5, 290, Sr, OL/DL, SM West

Lee Spight.......................6-1, 220, Sr, DL, SM West

Cole Cruz.........................6-0, 278, Sr, OL, Hutchinson

Jimmy Swain..................6-3, 225, Sr, LB, Olathe North

Winston Dimel...............6-1, 215, Sr, TE/FB/DE, Manhattan

Deron Thompson...........5-9, 175, Sr, RB, Wichita Northwest

Joe Dineen......................6-2, 210, Sr, DB, Lawrence Free State

Austin Tillman................6-1, 195, Sr, RB/LB, Topeka

Chase Gitlin....................6-6, 215, Sr, TE, Olathe Northwest

Kyle Wittman.................6-2, 260, Sr, DL, Lawrence

Cole Hansen....................6-3, 270, Sr, OL, Derby

Fred Wyatt......................6-4, 255, Sr, DL, Lawrence Free State

Andre Maloney...............6-2, 180, Sr, WR/DB, SM West

Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

Page 14

Brought to you by this Crawford County attraction:

■ By Mark Schremmer For Kansas Pregame

Those who believe weightlifting stunts a child’s growth probably have never met Braden Smith.

Smith, a 6-foot-7, 290-pound offensive lineman for Olathe South, started lifting weights when he was in the fourth grade.

Now one of the top recruits in the country, Smith can bench press 545 pounds. He squats 595 and power cleans 320.

“I’ve been lifting weights for a long time,” Smith said. “It kind of really took off my freshman year when I started doing summer weights.”

His work in the weight room has had an obvious impact on his game.

“He’s just freaking incredible is what he is,” Olathe South head coach Jeff Gourley said. “I’ve never seen anyone as strong as him. He was bench pressing 465 pounds as a 15-year-old sophomore. We use him as a poster boy.”

Much of Smith’s strength is attributed to the time he puts in on his own.

“What we do at school is minimal in the confines of the time we have,” Gourley said. “After weights at school, he’ll go home and lift for three hours. He has a great work ethic. He continues to work hard and get better.”

Smith’s size and strength combination has helped him draw a lot of interest from the nation’s top college football programs.

According to Rivals.com, Smith is the No. 1 recruit in Kansas, the No. 4 offensive tackle prospect in the nation and the No. 22 recruit overall.

Smith reportedly has offers from Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Kansas State, Michigan, Missouri, Nebraska, Notre Dame, Ohio State, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Stanford, TCU, Texas, Texas A&M and Virginia.

The interest began to build during Smith’s sophomore year when he helped the Falcons win the Class 6A state championship. Since then, the attention has grown.

“It gets pretty crazy,” Smith said. “They expect me to call them all the time.

I’ll call every now and then, but I’m pretty much going to focus on myself so I can have the best season I possibly can.”

Smith attended the Alabama versus Texas A&M and Oklahoma versus Notre Dame games on recruiting visits last year.

He said meeting Alabama head coach Nick Saban was a memorable moment.

“The only time I was really in awe was meeting Nick Saban,” Smith said. “When you meet someone who’s won three out of the last four national championships, that’s a cool experience.”

Smith said he plans to make a decision on which school to attend toward the end of the season.

“I’ll probably make my decision close to the end of the year, just so that I make the right decision and I’m positive that’s Hel p turn your bi g dream i ntoreal i ty! where I want to go,” he said.

Smith is doing his best to block out all of the recruiting attention and focus on having a great senior season at Olathe South.

SMITH / Continued on page 16

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Page 15

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DERBY PANTHERS

DODGE CITY RED DEMONS

GARDEN CITY BUFFALOES

GARDNER-EDGERTON TRAILBLAZERS

Derby is arguably Kansas’ most talented team.

Senior safety Travis Young has already received a scholarship offer from Southern Illinois and running back Tyler West has picked one up from Army. Offensive lineman Cole Hansen has picked up a scholarship offer from Air Force.

Tight end DeAndre Goolsby is ranked No. 5 nationally by Rivals.com and collected all-state honors. Linebacker Jose Delgado is a returning all-state selection and a Division I prospect.

Garden Plain transfer Caleb Arnold is a highly touted prospect that will play safety.

Derby has lost back-to-back sub-state championship games. In 2011 to Wichita Heights, and last year when Hutchinson won 29-28 on a last-second score and two-point conversion.

Coach Brandon Clark, entering his eighth year as head coach and 10th in the program, has set goals to “get better each and every day” and said the keys are finding vocal leaders and creating team chemistry. All of the returning starters (six offensive, four defense) are seniors and seven have already started at least two years. Derby defeated Class 5A power Salina South, 27-14, in Week 1 – the two teams will match up again this season in the premier largeschool season-opening contest. The Panthers’ other loss also came to Hutchinson, 31-28, in Week 6.

“We have some experience coming back but we also have a lot of holes to fill with seniors that have graduated,” Clark said. “ We have a lot of work to do to get to where we ended up last year.”

Dodge City has qualified for the playoffs five straight years, but has had vastly different records in that span: 4-6, 8-3, 11-1, 5-5 and 5-6.

Last year, the Red Demons collected a 38-6 victory against Manhattan in the first round and became the lone Class 6A team to win a playoff game and finish with a losing record. Dodge City narrowly qualified for the playoffs with a 1-2 district record, but earned a spot because a 54-51 loss to Maize in Week 8 and a 24-20 win against archrival Garden City in Week 9.

The Red Demons finished No. 7 in Class 6A in scoring offense at 344 points, but finished No. 30 out of 32 teams in the classification in scoring defense at 354 points allowed.

This season, Dodge City brings back just four offensive and five defensive starters, but coach Dave Foster said the team has a strong sophomore class. Foster said the sophomore’s ability to “mature and adjust” to the speed of a varsity game will be a key factor.

Quarterback Kelan Newton returns after he completed 191 of 325 passes for 2,474 yards and a 20/6 TD/INT ratio. Dodge City averaged 237 passing yards a game, but only 117 rushing yards and 4.4 yards per carry.

“Our primary goal is to make a run deep in the playoffs,” Foster said. “Qualifying has become the norm and this must continue. Once in the playoffs, simply taking each game one at a time will be our key. This team will only get better as the season goes on with our youth.”

Garden City will return one of Kansas’ top quarterbacks in senior Greyson Tempel, who rushed for 946 yards and 10 scores and completed 126 of 230 passes for 1,531 yards and 13 TDs. Tempel rushed for 276 yards in a Week 3 win against Great Bend, second-best in Buffs’ history.

Garden City looks to return to the playoffs after it missed the postseason for the first time in Brian Hill’s three years last fall. Last year, the Buffs finished minus-9 in turnover margin.

Even with the big numbers, Tempel had 18 turnovers, Garden City missed the postseason when it lost 24-20 to archrival Dodge City in Week 9 in the annual Hatchet Game. Garden City is 5-4 in the last nine games versus the Red Demons; all nine are within 14 points. The game featured a weird play that made ESPN. Center Mitch Moore’s snap hit his rear end and went to the right where Immanuel Galloway caught the ball and ran 78 yards for a score, the eventual deciding points in GC’s loss.

“To prepare hard enough to give us a chance week in and week out to compete and win football games,” Hill said of the team’s goals.

“Filling in the holes on the O-line left because of graduation will be first priority. We must also take better care of the ball on offense. Last year in the games we lost, we lost the turnover battle.

Staying healthy and getting better throughout the year is always important.”

Gardner-Edgerton finished 6-4 last season and lost in the first round of the playoffs 34-32 to Lawrence, a disapointment compared to recent seasons under veteran coach Marvin Diener.

The Trailblazers had reached the sub-state championship game in ’08, 2010 and ’11 and were state runner-up in 2009. This year, Diener, who has six state titles and four runner-up showings in his career, returns one of Kansas’ top players in senior running back Traevohn Wrench, who broke Bubba Starling’s school record with 2,434 yards rushing and 34 scores as a sophomore and has already committed to KU. Last year, he rushed 256 times for 2,268 yards and 25 TDs and scored 154 points.

Wrench collected Top 11 honors for all classes and earned EKL Offensive Player of the Year.

Quarterback Jared Hobby returns for a third year under center. He completed 91 of 179 passes for 1,175 yards and 10 scores as a sophomore and 90 of 172 passes for 1,326 yards and 13 TDs last year. Hobby, tight end Josh Lang (16 catches, 304 yards, five TDs), and wideout Jaylon Radel (24-404-4) were honorable mention all-league picks.

G-E returns both guards and the starting center for a unit that Diener said has the possibility to be great. “On offense, a lot of pressure will be put on them early to put up big numbers to make up for the inexperience on ‘D,’” Diener said.

5-6 in 2012 / 2-1 in district / 6A Western Athletic Conference Coach: Dave Foster (4th year, 21-12; 17th overall, 88-69) Assistants: Shawn Steiner, David Snodgrass, Fred Sims, Nathan Gaswick, Steve Rankin, Chris Whitson, Dustin Fergerson, Kyle Culwell, Ben Hamilton, Mark Sandbo Offense: Spread Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: 32 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 5 Defense Kelan Newton, QB, 6-5, 195, Sr.; Immanuel Galloway, WR/DB, 6-0, 190, Sr.; Austin Savage, WR/DB, 5-11, 180, Sr.; Jacob Hershberger, OL/DL, 6-3, 225, Sr.; Ryan Lomas, FB/DE, 6-0, 185, Sr.; Layton Ediger, LB, 6-1, 195, Jr.; Dawson Davis, LB, 6-0, 190, Jr. Conor Nicholl

5-4 in 2012 / 1-2 in district / 6A Coach: Brian Hill (3rd year, 17-12) Western Athletic Conference Assistants: Dominick Dingle, Drew Thon, Derek Goble, Erik Base, Alex Riemann, Matt Bayer Offense: Multiple Spread Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: 20 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 7 Defense Greyson Tempel, QB, 5-11, 180, Sr.; Dustin Tempel, WR, 5-11, 165, Sr.; Alex Ortiz, OL, 6-3, 285, Jr.; Humberto Perez, OL, 6-0, 225, Jr.; Hunter Delgado, DB, 6-2, 175, Sr.; Emilio Parr, DB, 6-2, 180, Sr.; Dozie Ekweariri, DB, 5-9, 135, Sr.; James Nguyen, DL, 6-1, 205, Sr.; Quinton Mead, DL, 6-0, 215, Sr.; Kelton Uthe, LB, 5-9, 215, Sr.; Angel Gonzales, DL, 5-10, 190, Sr. Conor Nicholl

10-2 in 2012 / 3-0 in district / 6A Ark Valley Chisholm Trail League Division I Coach: Brandon Clark (8th year, 52-34) Assistants: Cade Armstrong, Shelby Wherman, Mitch Pontious, Kevin Davis, Eric Hendrick, Chris Pinaire, Todd Olmstead, Chris Devore, Jarrod Foster, Devin Tarrant Offense: Spread Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 6 Offense, 4 Defense Kyle Haugh C, 5-9, 220, Sr.; Kohl Yoder, G, 6-0, 210, Sr.; Cole Hansen, T, 6-3, 270, Sr.; Tanner Anderson, T, 6-4, 235, Sr.; DeAndre Goolsby, TE, 6-5, 225, Sr.; Tyler West, RB, 6-0, 210, Sr.; Travis Young, S, 6-1, 205, Sr.; Alec Martin, CB, 5-8, 160, Sr.; Jose Delgado, LB, 5-10, 190, Sr.; Kavan Mark, DE, 6-1, 205, Sr. Conor Nicholl

HUTCHINSON SALTHAWKS After reaching its ninth state championship game in 10 seasons, Hutchinson looks to reclaim the title in 2013.

The Salthawks led Shawnee Mission West at halftime in the Class 6A championship game last season, 14-6, but lost, 19-14.

Coach Randy Dreiling, entering his 17th season at Hutch, believes that any season that ends in the state championship game is a success, but he continues to push his team to once again be the best in the state of Kansas.

“Remember 2009?” he asked his players huddled around him at the end of summer camp in mid-July, recalling the dominant nature of that team that won the program’s Kansas-record sixth straight state title. “We’ve got to get back to that mindset.”

This year, Turner Wintz, who moves from defensive back to quarterback, should be as proficient running Hutchinson’s signature flexbone option offense as any in recent program history.

In the offseason, it remained unclear who will take the bulk of the carries at fullback--but

6-4 in 2012 / 3-0 in district / 6A Eastern Kansas League Coach: Marvin Diener (8th year, 59-20; 239-78) Assistants: Marvin Diener, Kris Henry, David Diener, Joel Bergmann, Kyle Woodall, Stan Watchous, Aaron Stubblefield, Ryan Plankenhorn, Ty Pfannenstiel, Adam Breault, Brian Bechard, John Yockey, John Bass Offense: I-formation Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: 23 Returning starters: 9 Offense, 4 Defense Logan Powell, DE, 6-3, 230, Sr.; Emilio Fowler, DL, 5-11, 196, Jr.; Dustin Williams, LB, 5-8, 175, Sr.; Tommy McLennan, DB, 5-11, 162, Sr.; Donovan Fahy, C, 6-0, 235, Sr.; Jared Hobby, QB, 6-0, 202, Sr.; Deontre Kendrick, WR, 6-1, 190, Sr.; Josh Lang, TE, 6-0, 202, Jr.; Chris Oathout, G, 6-2, 251, Sr.; Justin Periman, G, 6-4, 225, Sr.; Jaylon Radel, WR, 6-1, 192, Sr.; Traevohn Wrench, RB, 6-1, 206, Sr.; Marshall Wade, RB, 5-9, 175, Sr. Conor Nicholl

JUNCTION CITY BLUE JAYS

Hutch always finds one. Cole Cruz is the lone returning starter on the offensive line.

Six returning defensive starters will make up the backbone of the team--as usual. Colby Turner, a junior who enters his third season as a starter, leads a linebacking corp that includes Ryan Stoecklein and Colin O’Neal.

The Bluejays are coming off a 6-3 season, but they were left out of the state playoffs by virtue of the district points tiebreaker. Junction City, Manhattan and Topeka all went 2-1 in one of the state’s toughest districts, but the Bluejays finished third on points and narrowly missed the postseason for a second straight season.

This year, Junction City returns 32 lettermen 10-3 in 2012 / 3-0 in district / 6A including five starters on offense and five on Ark Valley Chisholm Trail League Division I defense.

Coach: Randy Dreiling (17th year, 155-34, 24th overall) Seniors Jeffrey Clark and Chris Franklin are Assistants: Scott Yantes, Bo Frondorf, Dave Armbrust, Chad McKinnis, Dan Naccarato, Bret Eckert, Rich Ander- back to anchor the offensive line, while senior receiver Nate Funk, senior tight end Semaj son, Travis Thurston, Adam Krol, David Lee Johnson and senior running back Dequan Davis Offense: Flexbone Option Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: 53 also returning to the starting lineup.

Returning starters: 3 Offense, 6 Defense On defense, veteran coach Randall ZimmerCole Cruz, OL, 6-0, 278, Sr.; Kassidy Lemons, K, 5-11, man can lean on senior linebackers Immanuel 157, Sr.; Turner Wintz, QB/DB, 5-9, 155, Jr.; Nathan Carson, Micah Felton and Justice Rexrode as Fairbanks, DL, 6-3, 243, Jr.; Dalton Luce, DL, 5-8, 220; well as senior defensive end Andrew Milsap Colin O’Neal, LB, 5-9, 160; Ryan Stoecklein, LB, 5-11, and junior defensive end Shelby Mofith.

178; Colby Turner, LB, 5-10, 190, Jr.; Braydon Wells, Zimmeran said his team’s goals are to come 5-6, 140, Sr. Tom Witherspoon together as a team and get a little better each day.

Junction City, which must replace running back Jovan Toles and quarterback Cody Devin, opens the season Sept. 6 at Hays.

6-3 in 2012 / 2-1 in district / 6A Centennial League Coach: Randall Zimmerman (20th year, 27th year overall) Assistants: John Davis, Jimmy Goheen, Dan Sell, Edmund Cronn, Carl Laughlin, Mitch Whaley, Josh Hubard, Willie Snipes Offense: Multiple Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: 32 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 5 Defense Jeffrey Clark, OT, 6-4, 300, Sr.; Chris Franklin, OG, 5-11, 230, Sr.; Nate Funk, WR, 5-8, 150, Sr.; Semaj Johnson, TE, 6-3, 200, Sr.; Dequan Davis, RB, 5-9, 170, Sr.; Immanuel Carson, OLB, 6-0, 190, Sr.; Justice Rexrode, OLB, 5-9, 165, Sr.; Andrew Milsap, DB, 5-8, 140, Sr.; Micah Felton, LB, 5-10, 180, Sr.; Shelby Moffith, DE, 6-0, 190, Jr. Melanie McGee

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LAWRENCE LIONS

LAWRENCE FREE STATE FIREBIRDS

MANHATTAN INDIANS

OLATHE EAST HAWKS

The Lawrence Lions are one of the 40 all-time winningest high school football programs in the country with a record of 707-269-38, according to maxpreps.com. But the Lions fell on hard times recently, posting seasons of 1-8 (with zero wins in league play) in 2009, and 3-6 in 2010.

The Lions emerged from those difficult seasons hungry and finished 6-4 in 2011 and 8-3 last year, their best season since a 10-2 record in 2005. All three of the Lions losses were by 14 points or less including 20-14 and 21-14 to eventual 6A champion SM West to open and close the season.

If the Lions are to repeat the success of last season they will have the monumental task of replacing one of the most versatile football players in 6A, Brad Strauss, a 2012 Kansas Pregame coverboy, and the 2012 Kpreps.com Dylan Meier Player of the Year.

Strauss passed for 2,278 yards and 24 touchdowns in his senior season and 5,123 yards and 47 touchdowns for his career. The first sophomore to start at quarterback for Lawrence High, Strauss also rushed for 1,972 yards and 30 touchdowns in his career. He also was a defensive back, punter and return man for the Lions.

Replacements for receivers Erick Mayo and Drake Hofer and offensive lineman Kharon Brown are a must as well.

Lawrence Free State could be the 6A representative in the title game from the east this fall.

In 2012 they posted their second double digit win total since 2000 going 10-2 and losing to eventual champion Shawnee Mission West in the semi-finals after beating the Vikings 28-14 in week two of the season - the 6A champs only loss on the year.

While the Firebirds will miss the loss of quarterback Kyle Mcfarland and lineman Cody Stanclift to graduation they welcome back allleague safety Joe Dineen, D-lineman Fred Wyatt, and a trio of talented linebackers in Keith Loneker, Stan Skwarlo, and Blake Winslow.

Dineen - expected to take over the reins at quarterback this year - has committed to play safety at the University of Kansas, while Wyatt plans to play collegiately at Northwestern.

Eli Underwood, who writes the Sunflower League Football Blog (sunflowerfootball.com) said Dineen’s addition of a full time role on offense makes him a favorite to win the Simone Award, which is handed out annually to the top football player in the Kansas City Metro area.

“With his recruitment complete (Dineen committed to Kansas in late May), the league’s most complete all-around player will be able to focus his full attention on trying to bring Free State its first state title in school history,” Underwood wrote in a blog post featuring Dineen in late June.

Manhattan had won 27 straight regular games and posted a 32-3 record from 2009-11. Last year, the Indians lost four games, including a 21-0 defeat to Emporia in Week 2 and a 21-20 loss to Topeka Seaman in Week 3, the first regular season defeats since a 30-6 loss to rival Junction City in Week 9 of 2008.

As well, the Indians lost 34-33 to Junction City in Week 9, but still qualified for the playoffs. That ended a three-game winning streak against their archrivals; the last four games between the two teams have been decided by a combined 16 points. The Indians have qualified for the playoffs five straight years.

“Last year we were inconsistent as a team,” coach Joe Schartz said. “We had a couple of close losses and some games where we just didn’t perform well. Other weeks we played like a Manhattan High team should play. The key this year will be consistently performing week in and week out like we should.”

Schartz, in his 10th year on staff and fifth as head coach, has set a goal to improve each week, be at the best entering postseason and look to contend for a state championship.

Olathe East has posted a winning season every fall since 1999 under 22nd year coach Jeff Meyers, the lone coach in program history. In that time, the Hawks have won at least eight games nine times and posted double-digit wins three times. The Hawks have five Sunflower League titles, the most recent in 2010, but have never won a state championship. Last year, the Hawks went 6-5, a three-win decrease from 2011, but still earned a 17-7 first-round playoff victory against Shawnee Mission East. The season ended with a 28-17 loss to Lawrence Free State.

This year, the Hawks graduated offensive lineman Zach Williams, the squad’s lone first team all-league player. Of the five second-team selections, only punt returner Brandon Trinkle returns after he returned a punt for a score last year. Slot back/inside linebacker Nathan Guthrie returns as an honorable mention selection.

Meyers said quarterback “is the big question” and getting consistent play from the quarterback spot is key. Outside of QB, Meyers said the team has “a lot of experience back.”

Running back Hayden Frazier graduated after he rushed for 1,555 yards.

8-3 in 2012 / 2-1 in district / 6A Sunflower League Coach: Dirk Wedd (14th year, 75-65) Assistants: N/A Offense: Spread Defense: 5-2 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: N/A

6-4 in 2012 / 2-1 in district / 6A Centennial League Coach: Joe Schartz (5th year, 36-7) Assistants: Greg Marn, Pat McKiney, Jason Kazar, Jesse Woodard, Chris McNabb Offense: Flexbone Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: 23 10-2 in 2012 / 3-0 in district / 6A Returning starters: 7 Offense, 8 Defense Sunflower League Henry Bieber, RB/DB, 5-11, 170, Sr.; Tanavious RichCoach: Bob Lisher ardson, RB/DB, 5-5, 130, Jr.; Chris Martin, RB/DB, 6-0, (17th year, 94-70; 20th overall, 108-74) 165, Jr.; Troy Ward, LB, 5-10, 190, Sr.; Winston Dimel, Assistants: N/A RB/TE, 6-1, 215, Sr.; Jonah Webber, LB, 5-10, 180, Sr.; Offense: Spread - Zone Read Defense: 3-5-3 Kellen Myers, QB/WR, 5-11, 165, Sr.; Darian Taylor, QB/ Returning lettermen: N/A DB, 6-3, 185, Sr.; Bret Fehr, WR, 6-2, 175, Sr.; Brandon John Baetz John Baetz Nowlin, OL, 6-0, 250, Sr.; Wade Stroda, OL/LB, 5-10, 205, Jr.; Paul Bergeron, DL, 6-0, 230, Sr.; Seth Eckels, OL, 6-1, 240, Sr. Conor Nicholl

OLATHE NORTH EAGLES

OLATHE SOUTH FALCONS

The Eagles finished 2012 on a bit of a roll, winning three of their final five games after an 0-4 start. They finished as district runner-up after beating Olathe South 21-14 in the regular season finale, but were bounced from the playoffs in round one.

Legendary coach Gene Wier is now in his second season back at North after spending several years in Texas, and he’ll have six starters back to lead the defense in 2013.

Noseguard Josh Moore, defensive end Marcel Williams, linebacker Marcel Spears, cornerback Kai Rowden, and safeties Maurico Chico and Jamil Brown will be joined by transfer Jimmy Swain, a linebacker who has already received several Division I offers.

The Eagle offense should be paced by running back Venus Triplett, a second-team All-Leaguer last year, Chico at halfback, Moore at tight end, and quarterback Cole Murphy, who was injured during the third game last season. Senior center Sean Ceballaos will anchor the offensive line.

“We have a chance to be competitive if we stay healthy,” Wier said. “Several of these players had injuries last year. Jimmy Swain is one of the top players in the country and his return helps.”

After winning the Class 6A state championship in 2011, there is no doubt the Olathe South Falcons were disappointed with their 5-4 finish in 2012.

Three starters on offense and four on defense will try to lead a relatively young Olathe South team back to the playoffs.

“We will be playing a lot of juniors,” South coach Jeff Gourley said. “How fast they can learn and adapt to the varsity level will be the biggest key to success. This is especially true of the offensive line. If the big, talented younger group can fall in line with Braden Smith, then it will go a long way to keying offensive success.”

Smith is certainly a good start. The 6-foot-7, 290-pound offensive lineman is considered the No. 1 overall college recruit in Kansas and the No. 4 offensive tackle prospect in the country.

He will be joined on the offensive line by 6-2, 270-pound junior Chase Latschka. Senior wide receiver James Hart is the only returning starter at the skill positions.

Smith and junior Coleman Clanton will lead the defensive line. Junior Nate Howard returns at linebacker, and senior Thomas McCue will lead the secondary.

3-7 in 2012 / 2-1 in district / 6A Sunflower League Coach: Gene Wier Assistants: Chris McCartney, Jesse Owen, Matt Sullivan, Travis Greer, Phil Simon, Dough Catloth, Josh Carrol Offense: Pistol Defense: 3-3 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 4 Offense, 6 Defense Venus Triplett, RB, 5-9, 186, Jr.; Josh Moore, TE/NG, 6-5, 255, Jr.; Maurico Chico, HB/SS, 6-0, 201, Sr.; Sean Ceballos, C, 5-11, 227, Sr.; Marcel Williams, DE, 5-11, 231, Jr.; Marcel Spears, LB, 6-1, 201, Jr.; Kai Rowden, CB, Sr.; Jamil Brown, FS, 5-9, 170, Sr. Melanie McGee

5-4 in 2012 / 1-2 in district / 6A Sunflower League Coach: Jeff Gourley (5th year, 31-20) Assistants: Josh Perkins, Chad McFarland, Reed Howard, Greg Wheeler, Alex Warn, Conor Fitzgerald, Dennis Grayless, Graham Rees, Nate Harrison, Kenyon Thornburg, Mike Jasiczek, Dylan Brown Offense: Wing-T Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 3 Offense, 4 Defense Braden Smith, OL/DL, 6-7, 290, Sr.; Chase Latschka, OL, 6-2, 270, Jr.; James Hart, WR, 5-10, 170, Sr.; Coleman Clanton, DE, 6-5, 280, Jr.; Nate Howard, OLB, 6-2, 180, Jr.; Thomas McCue, CB, 5-9, 165, Sr. Mark Schremmer

SMITH / Continued from page 14

6-5 in 2012 / 3-0 in district / 6A Sunflower League Coach: Jeff Meyers (22nd year, 153-64) Assistants: Mike Wallace, Lee Meyers, Steve Tidd, Mike Stephens, Josh Umphrey, Ken Stohs, Len Hoke, Matt Wood, Randy Laungamath, Lance Larson, Wes Allred Offense: Multiple I Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: 57 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 8 Defense Braxton Love, WR/FS, 6-0, 170, Sr.; Nathan Guthrie, SB/ ILB, 6-1, 195, Sr.; Branden Trinkle, SB/OLB, 5-10, 165, Jr.; Brendon Bentz, WR/OLB, 6-1, 165, Jr.; Brandon Lengquist, OL/ILB, 5-9, 185, Jr.; Jordan Brown, RB/OLB, 5-9, 165, Sr.; Brayden Bromley, RB/CB, 5-9, 150, Sr.; Connor Alexander, TE/DE; Jeremy Johnson, OT, 6-0, 205, Jr.; Dylan Durant, OLB, 5-10, 155, Jr.; Parker Evans, QB/FS, 6-0, 165, Sr.; Austin Michaud, OL/DL, 6-0, 230, Sr. Conor Nicholl

“From all outside observation, he’s been outstanding in how he’s handling this,” Gourley said. “We try to create a buffer for him. I know he’s sick of it at times. I’ve tried to keep as many wolves off him as possible.”

Smith also has been good about not allowing the attention to create extra pressure for him.

“I don’t really feel pressure,” he said. “I have expectations for myself. I don’t really care about what anyone else thinks. I just want to improve my game and do what my coaches think I need to improve on.”

Smith has developed his game immensely since his freshman year. However, even when Smith was a freshman, Gourley said it didn’t take long to realize his potential.

Gourley remembers seeing Smith for the first time at a football camp.

“The camp director split them up into classes,” Gourley said. “I looked over and said, ‘Who is the parent down there with the freshmen? Tell him to get out of there.’ Everyone else was standing up to his armpit. We knew right out of the gates that he wasn’t going to be playing with the freshman group.

We knew he was special.”

Smith gradually improved his quickness and agility and developed into a quality lineman during Olathe South’s state championship run his sophomore season.

“The thing about Braden is that he understands where his weaknesses are and works to make them better,” Gourley said. “We don’t pass much at all, but during the winter he knew he was going to be at a lot of the national combines. He worked a lot on pass protection. He works real hard to make his weaknesses go away. He doesn’t have too many weaknesses, and the ones he has are relative to his abilities.”

Smith projects as an offensive tackle in college but has played guard for Olathe South as it is more valuable in the Falcons’ Wing-T offense.

“He’s got all the tools,” Gourley said. “I’ve coached a lot of good players, but they’re not all 6-7 and 300 pounds.”

In addition to developing on the field, Smith has emerged as a team leader.

“He’s really taken the leadership role,” Gourley said. “I’ve been really impressed with his leadership.

If we need to fix the intensity level, he’ll take care of it. He doesn’t say too much, so when he does everyone listens.”

Smith is focused on getting Olathe South back to the playoffs.

After winning the state title in 2011, the Falcons opened the 2012 season with a 3-0 record. But Olathe South lost four of its next six games and failed to reach the 6A playoffs.

The Falcons lost several key skill position players from last season, but expectations remain high.

“Braden’s taken these guys in the offseason and showed them how to work,” Gourley said.

“Voluntarily, he came into my office and said that last season wasn’t acceptable. I agreed. He took it upon himself to get the work ethic in check.”

Smith said he feels good about the talent the Falcons possess.

“We’re going to have a lot of young players this year,” he said. “We’ll see how they respond and go from there. I think we’ll be a pretty good team. We have a lot of good, young talent.”

Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

Page 17

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OP-BLUE VALLEY NORTH MUSTANGS

OP-BLUE VALLEY NW HUSKIES

SHAWNEE MISSION EAST LANCERS

SHAWNEE MISSION NORTH INDIANS

Coach John McCall has set a goal to continue to improve Blue Valley North’s “competitive position” in the Eastern Kansas League. The Mustangs finished just 1-8 last year, but were competitive in virtually every contest. The lone win was a 31-28 victory against Blue Valley Southwest in Week 4. That ended a 13-game losing streak that dated back to Week 8 of the 2010 season and stands as the lone win under McCall.

As well, the Mustangs lost 21-19 to Shawnee Mission South in Week 8, 42-30 to Blue Valley West in Week 3, and had four other losses within 22 points. Defense was a concern for the Mustangs, who allowed at least 28 points in all but one game against the No. 2-hardest Class 6A schedule, according to preppowerindex.com.

“We feel that we are ready to win, and are preparing for a District Title,” McCall said.

“BVN has won two playoff games in its history, and we are working to add to that.”

McCall said the first key will be to “mold” an offensive line made up of fullbacks, linebackers, tight ends and defensive ends. He wants to run the ball more this season and keep the defense energized in the fourth quarter.

The team returns just three offensive and three defensive starters.

“We are excited to rely on our senior class, some strong junior contributors and a talented sophomore class,” McCall said. “ How quickly we polish our run game and get sophomore players prepared for our schedule will be key elements of our success this season.”

Blue Valley NW had a unique run of scores en route to the playoffs last fall. The Huskies lost to St. Thomas Aquinas 10-6 in the season opener and then fell 31-10 to Blue Valley West in Week 2. Then, the Huskies played five straight games that were decided by exactly seven points. They beat Bishop Miege 21-14, Gardner-Edgerton 28-21 and Blue Valley 21-14, lost to Blue Valley Southwest 35-28 and defeated Shawnee Mission South 28-21.

After that, the Huskies lost to Olathe East, 33-3, but beat Blue Valley North, 42-20 to reach the playoffs. In the first round, Northwest lost to eventual state champion Shawnee Mission West 34-14.

This year, coach Mike Zegunis is pleased to return his entire offensive line. Zegunis’ goals are to be able to stop the run on defense, be physical on offense, win league and make the playoffs. Last year, opponents outscored Blue Valley 233-201.

“We should be pretty strong up front,” he said.

“Our defense is faster and more athletic.”

Zegunis has had a few down years, mixing a 2-7 and 3-8 record with a 9-2 season in 2009.

Zegunis, though, has never posted back-to-back losing seasons in his tenure. He has led the Huskies to four playoff appearances. A former Fort Hays player, Zegunis assisted at Olathe East for 12 years before he took over Blue Valley Northwest. Offensive lineman Carter Tierney, defensive lineman Nate Johnson and defensive back Kyle Harrison each collected second team all-league honors last yaer.

Chip Sherman has continued his brilliant coaching career with the best four-year run in Shawnee Mission East history. Now, Sherman has moved to Olathe Northwest and Dustin Delaney, the former Hutchinson assistant and Emporia head coach, has taken over the Lancer program.

Sherman is a Missouri Hall of Famer who led Platte County to multiple state championships before he coached at Salina South for one season. Then, he took over an East program that had very rarely made the state playoffs.

The Lancers reached the postseason all four years under Sherman, earned its first Sunflower League title in more than 40 years in 2010 and won a playoff game in 2011. Delaney went 23-10 with Emporia, including a 9-2 record and No. 3 final ranking in Class 5A last year.

Delaney has set a goal to win the state championship and said the team’s keys will be how well the Lancers adapt to the offensive style and developing depth.

Sherman ran a multiple offense, while Delaney will use the flexbone that he brought with him from Hutch to Emporia and now to East. Last year, the Lancers started 5-0 overall and went 5-2 in the Sunflower League. It finished with a 17-7 loss to Olathe East in the playoffs.

Defensive lineman Dominique Atkinson returns after he was first team all-league. As well, Christian Blessen, Sage Thomson, Mitchell Tyler and Ryan Carter are all back after they collected honorable mention.

There’s no doubt coach Don Simmons has some rebuilding ahead of him.

After coaching the Chanute Blue Comets the past eight seasons, Simmons takes over a Shawnee Mission North Indians team that finished 0-9 in 2012.

He will transform the Indians from the Wing-T into a spread offense with four wide receivers and one running back. And while Shawnee Mission North technically returns seven starters on offense and five on defense, Simmons said everything will be starting fresh.

“A key will be how fast we adapt to new offensive and defensive schemes. We must stay healthy. And we must learn how to compete for 48 minutes every game and not hang our heads when we get behind. We will be very balanced on offense and get the ball to a lot of different players. Our offensive line will be big and must come through for us. We must have a QB step up as we have had a three-man competition all summer in 7-on-7, where we have been fairly successful. On defense, we must learn how to tackle better and play assignment football.”

1-8 in 2012 / 0-3 in district / 6A Eastern Kansas League Coach: John McCall (3rd year, 1-17; 6th overall, 25-28) Assistants: Courtney Porter, Aaron Hicks, Zach Langston, Greg Berg, CJ Hill, Jermaine Goodwin, John Thomas, Tommy Beeler Offense: Spread Defense: 3-5-3 Stack Returning lettermen: 20 Returning starters: 3 Offense, 3 Defense Aaron Bigus, RB, 5-7, 160, Sr.; John Puetz, OL, 6-4, 280, Sr.; Ben Brock, WR, 5-10, 175, Sr.; Blake Bohannon, DB, 5-10, 170; Marland McGee, LB, 6-0, 200; Connor Kagy, DE, 6-3, 220; Mike Valentine, K, 6-3, 170 Conor Nicholl

5-5 in 2012 / 2-1 in district / 6A East Kansas League Coach: Mike Zegunis (8th year, 39-39) Assistants: John Reichart, Tenny Dewey, Tim Serbousek, Darren Masten, Tobin Sample, Zack Orrick, Steven Fee, Rich Troxel, Adam Bien, Damon Brooks, Chad Roberts Offense: Multiple Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 20 Returning starters: 7 Offense, 5 Defense Jaquwan Stone, WR, 5-8, 160, Sr.; Antonio Bennett, OT, 6-2, 280, Sr.; Christian Atteberry, OT, 6-5, 250, Sr.; Carter Tierney, OG/DT, 6-1, 240, Sr.; Nate Johnson, OG/ DE, 6-4, 230, Sr.; Kyle Styve, C, 6-0, 225, Sr.; Jacob Rominger, OLB, 6-1, 195, Sr.; Kyle Harrison, S, 6-1, 175, Sr.; Kyle Pottinger, FB/LB, 5-11, 180, Sr. Conor Nicholl

7-3 in 2012 / 2-1 in district / 6A Sunflower League Coach: Dustin Delaney (1st year, 4th overall, 23-10) Assistants: Jason Filbeck, Chip Ufford, Miles Martin, Andy Walters, Grant Dreiling, John Haley, Andy Gagnon, Trey Hobson Offense: Flexbone Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: N/A Conor Nicholl

SHAWNEE MISSION NW COUGARS Shawnee Mission Northwest has won three Class 5A state championships in 1970, ’71 and ’74. The Cougars have been very up and down under several coaches in the last eight years: 0-9, 2-7, 4-5, 9-2, 6-3, 5-4, 6-5, 4-6 and 2-7 last year under veteran coach Linn Hibbs.

Hibbs coached at Wellington from 1996 to 2011, won Class 4A titles in 2001 and ’02 and made the playoffs every year in his tenure, the longest such streak in Kansas history. He took over for Aaron Barnett, who went into an administrative role.

Last season, the Cougars went 1-6 in league play. Hibbs has set a goal to win the Sunflower League championship, win the district championship and win the state championship. Hibbs said the team’s keys to success will be takeaway margin and playing physical. The Cougars’ lone victories came in Week 1, 25-14, against Olathe North and in Week 8, 42-14, against Shawnee Mission North. The Cougars had four games where they scored in single figures and just one game over 25 points.

0-9 in 2012 / 0-3 in district / 6A Sunflower League Coach: Don Simmons (1st year; 30th overall, 194-95 Assistants: Danny Long, Tim Crough, Jim Coate, Brandon Simmons, Aaron Sawyer, E.J. Walter, Ben Bartlett, Landon Murrell, John Bartlett Offense: Spread Defense: 42 Returning lettermen: 19 Returning starters: 7 Offense, 5 Defense Jesse Patterson, WR/RB/FS, 6-1, 170, Sr.; Jacob Langley, RB, 5-7, 160, Jr.; Nick Perez, WR/S, 6-1, 165, Jr.; Maceo Mitchell, OL, 6-0, 270, Sr.; Alec Turnbull, OL, 5-10, 210, Jr.; Darrell Jackson, OL, 6-0, 280, Dr.; Jeb Gillman, RB, 6-0, 165, Sr.; Dakota Boyd, LB, 5-10, 215, Sr.; Presler Jonathan, LB, 6-1, 195, Jr.; Blaze Nelson, DL, 6-5, 315, Sr. Mark Schremmer

SHAWNEE MISSION SOUTH RAIDERS

Senior wideout Nathan Power is back after he was second team all-league last season. Senior wideout/defensive back Jake Horner, defensive back Jake Hoskins, and defensive lineman Ariska Savior return after they collected honorable mention honors.

Shawnee Mission South graduated one of the state’s top players in running back Gabe Guild, a Holy Cross signee. Guild was a two-time first team all-state and all-league selection. He rushed 199 times for 1,641 yads and 12 scores as a junior and set the single game rushing record with 342 yards against Shawnee Mission 2-7 in 2012 / 1-2 in district / 6A Northwest in 2011. Last year, he helped the Sunflower League Raiders to a two-win improvement when he colCoach: Linn Hibbs (2nd year, 2-7; 16th overall, 118-85) lected 211 rushes for 1,470 yards and 12 scores.

Assistants: Dave Coopman, Tanner Ybarra, Billy Dent, Third-year coach Ryan Lonergan has the same Bob Jensen, Jeff Roudebush, Howard Newcomb goals and keys to success: improve everyday, Offense: I-formation Defense: 4-4 eliminate mistakes, expect to win and play with Returning lettermen: 41 Returning starters: 3 Offense, 7 Defense enthusiasm.

Derrick Bennett, OL, 5-9, 290, Sr.; Logan Miller, OL, 6-1, Senior defensive back Ra’Keim Abdul is a 296, Sr.; Ariska Savior, DL, 5-9, 289, Sr.; Neil Stimach, Division I prospect who has ran 4.48 seconds in ILB, 6-2, 198, Jr.; Devin Shockley, ILB, 6-1, 203, Sr.; the 40-yard dash, and shown a 35-inch vertical Spencer Cook, OLB, 6-4, 181, Sr.; Jake Hoskins, DB, leap, according to Rivals.com.

5-9, 187, Sr.; Jake Horner, WR/DB, 6-0, 170, Sr.; Khalil The Raiders, which went 3-1 at home and Hattley, DB, 5-11, 183, Sr. Conor Nicholl 1-4 on the road last year, have not made the playoffs since 2007 and have lost 12 straight playoff contests dating back to the second round in 1990. The last playoff victory was a 7-0 win

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against Blue Valley North in the Class 6A first round. South has won state championships in 1973 and ’75 and has eight league titles, but none since 1989. The Raiders have posted a losing record every year since a 5-5 season in 2000.

4-5 in 2012 / 1-2 in district / 6A Sunflower League Coach: Ryan Lonergan (3rd year, 6-12) Assistants: Mark Frase, Pat St. Louis, Brandon May, Bryce McElroy, Mitch Wiles, Brad Qualls, JJ DeMaria, Devin McAnderson, Pat Lonergan, Brandon McAnderson Offense: 2 back I formation Defense: 4-2 Returning lettermen: 25 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 9 Defense Dametrius Berry, OL/DL, 6-3, 265, Sr.; Dominique Berry, OL/DL, 6-3, 275, Sr.; Stephen Erickson, OL/LB, 6-1, 225, Sr.; Marcus Neal, OL, 5-8, 225, Sr.; Nick Oliver, TE/ DL, 6-5, 225, Sr.; Rasheed Brady, DL, 6-3, 210, Sr.; K.J. Edwards, WR, 6-0, 160, Sr.; Zach Gerber, OLB, 6-1, 210, Jr.; DeAngelo Bruster, DB, 5-11, 170, Jr.; Dainan Swoope, DB/K/P, 6-0, 180, Jr.; Ra’Keim Abdul, DB, 6-0, 190, Sr. Conor Nicholl

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SHAWNEE MISSION WEST VIKINGS

TOPEKA HIGH TROJANS

TOPEKA-WASHBURN RURAL JR. BLUES

WICHITA HEIGHTS FALCONS

Shawnee Mission West went from unranked in the Class 6A preseason KPreps poll to capturing the Sunflower League title and Class 6A championship with a 19-14 victory against Hutchinson, the No. 1 team most of the year.

It marked the program’s third state title; the first two came in 1972 and ’85. As well, the Vikings have 14 league titles, including the last four even-numbered years. The Vikings have reached the playoffs every year since 2007 and posted a winning record every season since 2003. This year’s team is expected to be a Class 6A contender again for 11th year coach Tim Callaghan.

One of the team’s top players is cornerback/ wideout Andre Maloney. Last fall, he earned first team all-league defensive honors after he collected 42 tackles and four interceptions.

He also collected more than 1,000 all-purpose yards and 13 scores. He helped the team reel off 11 straight victories and made big plays from the Wildcat formation in the playoffs, including the state game. He already has at least six scholarship offers, and has made a verbal commitment to play football at the University of Kansas next year.

“This is a hardworking group of seasoned players who want to continue the Viking Football Tradition,” Callaghan said. “There is a talented group of seniors that will be helped out by a few juniors and sophomores. The line will bring back some experience and will be the key on both sides of the ball.”

Topeka High enjoyed a five-win improvement from 2011, won the first playoff game and Centennial League title in school history and defeated Wichita Northwest, 42-13, in the first round. The Trojans lost 42-33 to Hutchinson in the second round. Four teams, Topeka High, Emporia, Junction City and Manhattan, tied at the top of the league with 5-1 marks.

Topeka High graduated quarterback Raymond Solis (1,359 rushing yards, 1,359 passing yards, 28 scores) and linebacker Will Geary, who earned league offensive and defensive player of the year honors, respectively. Coach Walt Alexander was named Centennial League Coach of the Year. Geary was also Class 6A defensive player of the year and a Top 11 selection after he had 104 tackles and started all four years.

This fall, senior Austin Tillman is back after he was a second team selection offensively and a first team pick defensively. Alec Beatty was first team all-defense and second team offense.

Alexander said the duo are both all-state caliber and labeled Tillman an “outstanding football player.”

Beatty will take over for Solis at quarterback.

The offensive line averages 290 pounds and has three players that weigh 300 or more pounds.

The Trojans will also have two returning starting wideouts that are at least 6-2.

Alexander has set goals to return to the playoffs and win another league championship.

Washburn Rural has had a long history of success, but 2011 marked the program’s first playoff berth since 1992. The Jr. Blues have won state championships in 1985, ’86 and ’89 and conference championships 11 times, most recently in 1996.

This year, Steve Buhler, the longtime successful coach at Rossville, takes over Washburn Rural. His staff includes 11 assistants, including Duane Zlatnik, an all-state football player and state champion wrestler at Rossville who started for the last several years on University of Kansas’ offensive line.

Last year, Washburn Rural had a two-win decrease from 6-4 to 4-5 under coach Derick Hammes, who, ironically, replaced Buhler at Rossville. Washburn Rural went 3-3 in Centennial League play and 0-3 in district with all three defeats by at least 20 points.

Buhler welcomes back eight offensive and seven defensive starters. Buhler is excited about the depth and athleticism on the team.

“This year’s team returns a lot of experience on the line as well as the skilled position,” Buhler said. “Another strength will be the depth that the offense will have with strong junior and sophomore classes to support the many senior starters returning.”

Rick Wheeler delivered one of the best turnarounds in Kansas football history during a 14 year coaching career at Heights. When he took over in 1999, the Falcons had just two winning records, 5-4 in 1969 and ’98 and had a 39-game losing streak against rival Wichita Southeast.

Wheeler, formerly a Heights assistant, led the team to winning records in his first three years.

Then, the team made its first postseason berth in school history in 2002 and defeated Wichita West, 32-8, in the first round.

It also reached the second round in ’04, ’06 and ’08, finished runner-up in ’09 and ’11 and put togethera a 13-0 season and Class 6A state title in 2010.

Wheeler, 110-37 as head coach, took his first first-round playoff loss at Heights last year with a 42-7 loss to Hutchinson, only the second time the Falcons allowed more than 21 points in a game in 2012.

Wheeler takes over as full-time athletic director this fall and his assistant and former defensive coordinator, Terry Harrison, takes over as head coach after a 7-3 season. Harrison looks for the Falcons, which return nine offensive and seven defensive starters, to return to the state championship game.

“Everyone in the Heights program is looking forward to the 2013 campaign,” Harrison said.

12-1 in 2012 / 3-0 in district / 6A Sunflower League Coach: Tim Callaghan (11th year, 80-28) Assistants: Tommie Davis, Scott Diebold, Steve Stanhope, John Stonner, Steve Szczygiel, Don Perkins, Todd Reed, Ken Benson, Kurt Webster, Willie Young Offense: Pro I Defense: 3-3 Stack Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 7 Offense, 6 Defense A.J. Verdini, QB, 6-5, 185, Sr.; Rashawn Owens, FB/LB, 5-11, 195, Sr.; Marquan Osbey, OL/LB, 5-11, 190, Sr.; Lee Spight, OL, 6-0, 210, Sr.; Andre Maloney, WR/DB, 6-1, 175, Sr.; Mitch Wade, WR/OLB, 6-0, 175, Sr.; Austin Chambers, OL/DL, 6-5, 275, Sr.; Andre Maloney, DB, 6-1, 175, Sr.; Cooper Arner, OLB, 6-1, 185, Sr.; Lee Spight, DL, 6-0, 210, Sr. Conor Nicholl

4-5 in 2012 / 0-3 in district / 6A Centennial League Coach: Steve Buhler (1st year, 23rd overall, 120-54) Assistants: Lucas Yarnell, Brett Cowdin, Carlos 9-2 in 2012 / 2-1 in district / 6A Kelly, John Meyers, Todd Reeves, Jerry Cavitte, Ryan Centennial League Smith, Duane Zlatnik, Tod Peters, Allen Neal, Shawn Coach: Walt Alexander (8th year, 34-32; 22nd overall) Assistants: Rod Hasenbank, Luke Coffman, Jason Nich- Seammater Offense: Multiple Sets Defense: 4-2-5 ol, Daniel Voth, Tony Canacari, Tevyn Harmon Returning lettermen: N/A Offense: Spread Defense: 4-3 Returning starters: 8 Offense, 7 Defense Returning lettermen: 19 Earl Mariner, OT/DT, 6-4, 295, Sr.; Quinn Mittermeier, Returning starters: 3 Offense, 4 Defense OG, 6-6, 260, Sr.; Domingo Lopez, OG, 5-10, 220, Sr.; Austin Tillman, RB/LB, 6-1, 195, Sr.; Derek Gomez, OL, Brandon Ouy, FB, 6-0, 235, Sr.; Michael Singer, QB, 6-2, 235, Sr.; Alec Beatty, QB/FS, 6-0, 170, Jr.; Jesse Ailsworth, LB, 5-11, 195, Sr.; Bill Keys, DE, 5-10, 190, Sr. 6-0, 180, Sr.; Blake Peterson, QB, 6-3, 180, Jr.; Dale Conor Nicholl Henderson, RB/S, 5-8, 160, Sr.; Tanner Swope, WR, 6-1, 160, Sr.; Connor Swope, WR, 5-11, 160, Sr.; Dre Siler, DT, 5-10, 185, Sr.; Austin Wooderson, DE, 6-2, 210, Sr.; Chandler Kayser, LB, 6-1, 215, Sr.; Tyler Palmer, CB, 5-9, 150, Sr.; Brodie Cronister, LB, 6-1, 200, Sr. Conor Nicholl

WICHITA NORTHWEST GRIZZLIES Wichita Northwest returns one of the state’s top players in running back Deron Thompson, a first team all-city, all-metro and Class 6A selection. He earned Division I offers after he rushed for 1,476 yards. This year, coach Steve Martin said Thompson has “fine tuned” his skills and has added some muscle. Christian Sanders will help carry the load; he missed all of last season after he broke his femur in the preseason scrimmage. Karol Williams is back after he was honorable mention wide receiver for a position that had multiple injuries.

“Throw in Karol Williams and Brendan Johnson and there are four backs who could be starting at any high school in the state of Kansas,” Martin said.

Northwest lost in the first round of the Class 6A playoffs, 42-13, to Topeka High after it finished 5-2 in league and 3-0 in district. Erin Gaither takes over at quarterback after he played wideout last year. Northwest has to replace its entire offensive line. Martin said seven players will rotate snaps.

Martin said the other question is on the defensive line. The linebackers are the “heart of the

defense” after returning Jordan Bell (first team all-city, honorable mention all state) and Joe Stevens (first team punter, honorable mention linebacker).

“The team’s back seven on both sides of the ball are very talented,” Martin said. “They will have to anchor the team until the offensive and defensive lines gel. There is great potential and size on the lines but they will have to come together quickly. Grizzlies will have to spread the ball out this year to keep defenses honest.”

7-3 in 2012 / 2-1 in district / 6A Greater Wichita Athletic League Coach: Terry Harrison (1st year) Assistants: Rajiv Foster, Matt Kelly, Ryan Alliman, Jeff Topping, Heath Henderson, Todd Sacquitne, Scott Kinderknecht, Mike Church Offense: Flexbone Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 9 Offense, 7 Defense Aderio Ammons, DL, 6-1, 260, Sr.; Demareio Dixon, LB, 5-11, 205, Sr.; Raashiid Arnold, DB, 6-0, 160, Sr.; Kyle Martin, DB, 5-9, 155, Sr.; Curtis Whitten, RB, 5-11, 200, Jr.; Tre King, RB, 5-11, 180, Jr. Conor Nicholl

WICHITA SOUTH TITANS

Wichita South has struggled for decades in football and has never won a playoff game. The team lost 50 straight games from 1996 to 2001, but has started to make strides in the last four years. The Titans made the playoffs in 1971 and then not again until 2009 with a 5-5 record.

The 5-5 mark was the best since a 5-4 season in 1996. Then-coach Cory Brack was named City League Coach of the Year. After a 1-8 record in 2010, Brack went 4-6 in 2011. Kevin Steiner, formerly an assistant, took over last year when Brack went to Cheney, and South had a three6-4 in 2012 / 3-0 in district / 6A win decrease to another 1-8 record.

Greater Wichita Athletic League “Last year, we had a lot of injuries and didn’t Coach: Steve Martin (2nd year, 6-4; 6th overall, 37-15) have the depth to overcome that,” Steiner Assistants: N/A said. “Although we aren’t where we want to Offense: N/A Defense: N/A be, our depth has improved at all positions and Returning lettermen: N/A right now, we are healthy. We will have some Returning starters: 6 Offense, 4 Defense Deron Thompson, RB, 5-9, 175, Sr.; Christian Sanders, athletes, but they will be raw with their football RB, 5-10, 185, Sr.; Erin Gaither, QB, 6-0, 195, Sr.; Karol skill. I am excited about the coaching staff.”

Williams, WR, 5-9, 170, Jr.; Jordan Bell, LB, 6-0, 220, Senior Grayson Work-Fields (6-3, 275) will Sr.; Joe Stevens, LB, 5-10, 190, Sr.; Dylan Brazell, FS, anchor the line and senior running back Darius 5-11, 160, Jr.; Brendan Johnson, SS, 5-11, 185, Jr.; Taylor is back after he led the team in rushing Romello Cotman, CB, 6-2, 160, So.; Nico Ornelas, CB, and started at tailback, defensive back and 6-0, 170, Sr. Conor Nicholl returner. Senior Kyle Wilson returns at running

back and linebacker.

Junior Dominic Webb will start at quarterback; Steiner called him “tall, athletic, smart.” As well, seniors Ramiro Palacio (5-7, 235) and Keaton Kessler (6-4, 280) will have good size on the line. Steiner labeled Palacio “strong (with) good feet.”

“Kyle Wilson is our most explosive player,” Steiner said. “He will play on both sides of the ball, although linebacker seems to be his more natural fit.”

1-8 in 2012 / 0-3 in district / 6A Greater Wichita Athletic League Coach: Kevin Steiner (2nd year, 1-8) Assistants: Bob Ray, Travis Graber, John Randle, Eric Smith, Sean McDonald, Kyle Haught, Chris Weikal Offense: N/A Defense: N/A Returning lettermen: 11 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 6 Defense Darius Taylor, TB/DB, 5-9, 155, Sr.; Kyle Wilson, RB/LB, 5-10, 190, Sr.; Grayson Work-Fields, OL, 6-3, 275, Sr.; Ben Padilla, WR, 5-9, 180, Sr.; Devonte’ Blake, DB, 5-9, 165, Sr.; Allen Bishop, DB, 5-10, 140, So.; William Terrell, DB, 5-5, 170, Jr.; Walter Goudeau, DB, 5-4, 130, So. Conor Nicholl

Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

Page 19

Class 5A

By Kansas Pregame staff Salina South hasn’t played for a state championship since 2004 when the Cougars won it all in Class 5A. The Cougars came within a game of reaching the title game last year, but fell short in the second half of a semifinal showdown against eventual state champion Bishop Carroll.

This could be the year the Cougars take that next step. One opposing coach, who will remain nameless, believes they will, saying, “Salina South will probably be the top team in 5A this year. They are loaded. Best team I’ve seen in a long time.”

Yes, expectations are high at South High as head coach Sam Sellers and his staff welcome back 15 starters from last year’s 10-2 team that reached the Final Four in 5A. It was also a team that handed Hutchinson a stunning 35-10 loss in the Salt City.

Not only do the Cougars return eight starters on offense and seven on defense, but seven of those positions are manned by three-year starters and eight others by twoyear starters.

The backfield may be one of the best in any class with quarterback Justin Stonebraker returning, along with senior tailback Mike Jones - one of the quickest backs straight ahead and laterally in all classifications - and senior fullback Ryan Fox. Stonebraker has a knack for making the big play and totaled 1,679 yards of total offense.

Jones shared time with school record-holder, and four-year starter, Cody Busby last year, but still rushed for 1,781 yards, including a school-record 411 against Great Bend. Fox averaged 6.4 yards per carry as primarily a blocking back.

Zach Nachbar is a big-play receiver for the Cougars and also had five interceptions on defense.

Senior safety Cade Calvert (103

PLAYERS TO WATCH

MICHAEL FAIRCHILD

tackles) and senior linebacker Dalton Herman (98 tackles) also return on defense.

But, as good as the Cougars are expected to be, they are also members of the loaded AVCTL Division I, which features Derby, Hutchinson and Salina Central, among others.

“We are going to need our young kids to really step up and provide further depth and play-making ability,” Sellers said. “With a very tough schedule, it will be critical that we continue to improve from top to bottom to set ourselves up for a playoff run.”

The expectations are very high at Bishop Carroll once again as well.

The Golden Eagles of head coach Alan Schuckman are coming off a record-setting 13-0 season that saw them score less than 40 points only once all year.

Bishop Carroll lost 35 players from a remarkable senior class, including all-state quarterback Zeke Palmer who threw for 2,333 yards and 22 touchdowns with only two interceptions while completing nearly 72 percent of his pass attempts last season. Only seven starters return, but no one will be counting out the Eagles. Defensive ends’ Patrick Dugan and Nate Stallbaumer and defensive backs’ Mark Quaney and Josh Horback will lead an underrated defense.

On offense, running back Tory Smith returns after rushing for 1,079 yards and 20 TDs last year.

Junior running back and receiver Denzel Goolsby is expected to have a breakout year.

“The greatest strength of our team will be the competition at most positions because of a large number of players who got significant minutes because of our success last year,” said Schuckman, who is 152-40 in 18 seasons at the school.

This will be an interesting season at Emporia. The Spartans return 17 starters from last year’s 9-2

team, but lost their KPREPS.COM PRESEASON RANKINGS head coach in May when Dustin Delaney 1. Salina South took the Shawnee 2. Bishop Carroll Mission East job.

3. Emporia The interim coach 4. Bishop Miege is P.J. Marstall, who 5. Blue Valley has been on the staff for over 25 years.

Others: Blue Valley West, St. Thomas Aquinas, Topeka Seaman Marstall’s son, Braxton, is a two-year starter at quarterback “We’ll need to stay healthy, we’re for the Spartans, who lost to Salina not very deep,” Thomas said. “How South in the second round of the we play early will determine a lot. A playoffs last year. little success will help the confiHow good was the Eastern dence of our new players.”

Kansas League last year? Well, If Miege is to get back to the consider Bishop Miege. The Stags title game they’ll have to find a finished seventh in the eight-team replacement for KU signee Montell league with two victories in seven Cozart at quarterback, and it looks games. They also finished second like transfer Ryan Willis could fit the in their district, but reached the bill. The 6-4, 195 pound junior has Class 5A state championship game reportedly picked up a scholarship before losing to the juggernaut from offer from Kansas State, but has Bishop Carroll. yet to make a varsity start.

The EKL is expected to be loaded Willis will have talented senior once again this season, with the wide receiver and D-back McKinlikes of Blue Valley, Blue Valley ley Johnson to throw to and two West, St. Thomas Aquinas, and, returning starters on the offensive yes, Miege, jockeying for playoff line blocking for him. berths. Gardner-Edgerton, another The Seaman Vikings feature one EKL power, will be doing its damof the state’s most exciting juniors age in 6A. in Joe Reagan, who has been one Blue Valley returns 11 starters and of the top sprinters on the track 39 lettermen for head coach Eric during the spring. Reagan rushed Driskell, who has won 29 games in for 1,050 yards a year ago for the three seasons at the school. The 5-5 Vikings and was also an electriTigers were 6-5 a year ago, but fying kick returner for the team. lost games by one and two points, “We’ll need to replace some key and another by a touchdown. Blue players from last year’s team, but Valley features a pair of big-time I’m confident we have the replacelinemen in senior guard Blake Free- ments ready for that challenge,” man (6-4, 262) and junior tackle said head coach Blake Pierce. “We A.J. Harris (6-5, 297). could be explosive offensively with St. Thomas Aquinas looked like the speed and athleticism returning, the odds-on favorite to reach the but we’ll be relying on our defense 5A title game before being upset by once again.”

Miege, 9-7, in the semifinals. The Saints finished 10-2 for head coach Michael Thomas, but return 10 starters from that team, including senior quarterback Danten Cosentino.

In addition to the players featured on the cover and inside back cover, these players are just a few of the best to keep an eye on in Class 5A this fall.

PARKER BASS

6-6, 270, SR, OL, BLUE VALLEY WEST

6-3, 220, SR, DE, EMPORIA

Photo by Matt Gilmore

Photo by Marion McReynolds

Collin Carter....................5-11, 185, Sr, K, Bishop Miege

Henry McGrew................6-3, 225, Sr, LB, Blue Valley

Alex Delton.....................6-1, 186, Jr, QB, Hays

Trevon Mitchell..............6-0, 185, Sr, LB, Wichita West

Doug DeWindt................6-1, 260, Sr, OL , Salina South

Zach Nachbar..................6-2, 200, Sr , WR, Salina South

Patrick Dugan................6-2, 230, Sr , DL, Bishop Carroll

Joseph Reagan...............5-8, 150, Jr, KR, Topeka Seaman

Trenton Hammond........6-1, 175, Sr, WR , Liberal

Kole Smith......................6-3, 275, Sr, DL, Salina South

Mikey Henson.................6-3, 185, Sr, WR, Blue Valley

Ryan Smith.....................6-2, 265, Sr, DL, Mill Valley

McKinley Johnson..........5-9, 160, Sr, WR/DB, Bishop Miege

MALIK VEAL

overview

MIKE JONES

5-9, 180, SR, RB, SALINA CENTRAL

5-10, 170, SR, RB, SALINA SOUTH

File photo

Photo by Marion McReynolds

Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

Page 20

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

Page 21

Brought to you by this Crawford County attraction:

■ By Mark Schremmer For Kansas Pregame

Miners Memorial

Miners Memorial in Immigrant Park located in downtown Pittsburg on Second Street, between Pine and Walnut streets, is a tremendous asset for the community. This coal miner’s memorial celebrates and preserves the rich mining and immigrant history of the deep shaft and strip miners, including auxiliary workers, in the WeirPittsburg Coal Field located in Cherokee and Crawford counties. www. minersmemorial.org

When Brad Ivey attended his first practice for Bishop Miege as a freshman, he had his heart set on playing quarterback.

Ivey played the position in sixth grade and figured he’d have no problems taking the snaps in high school.

The Bishop Miege coaching staff had other thoughts in mind for Ivey. And it’s safe to say that it’s worked out for all parties concerned.

Ivey will play his senior season as a four-year starter at middle linebacker.

“It all starts with him,” Bishop Miege head coach Jon Holmes said.

“He’s the heart and soul of our team. When Brad’s flying high, our team’s flying high.”

But Ivey still remembers the initial disappointment of being told he wouldn’t be under center.

“To be honest, I thought I was going to be a quarterback,” Ivey said. “My coach told me that I was too big.”

Instead, the Stags coaching staff thought Ivey could have an immediate impact on defense.

“We knew a little bit about him coming in as a freshman,” Holmes said. “He was throwing the ball left-handed, and he didn’t look great at it. We were a little thin at linebacker, and we knew he could help us as a freshman.”

It didn’t take long for Ivey to buy in to the position change.

After gaining a sizeable lead in the 2010 opener against Blue Valley Southwest, Ivey went into the game at linebacker.

“The coach put me in at middle linebacker,” Ivey said. “The very first play was a stretch with the quarterback. This huge hole opened up. I wasn’t sure what to do, so I just ran through the hole. The quarterback ran right into me, and I tackled him. It felt great. It was kind of like, ‘I can do this.’”

Five games into the season, Ivey was a starter. He has been a mainstay for the Stags ever since.

“I think it’s huge that he was able to start as a freshman,” Holmes said. “You

IVEY / Continued on page 25

Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

Page 22

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ANDOVER TROJANS

EMPORIA SPARTANS

GODDARD LIONS

GODDARD-EISENHOWER TIGERS

Andover posted back-to-back 9-2 seasons in Class 4A, then moved up to Class 5A and went 2-7 and 1-8 in 2011 and 2012. Then, the Trojans enjoyed a seven-win improvement last year and reached the second round of the Class 5A playoffs. Andover defeated Arkansas City, 3114, in the first round and then lost to eventual state champion Bishop Carroll, 49-14, in the second round.

In 2011, Andover scored just 139 points and allowed 314 against the No. 20-hardest strength of schedule in Class 5A, according to preppowerindex.com. Last fall, the Trojans outscored opponents 297-186 against the No. 25 strength of schedule.

Andover didn’t have to play Derby and Maize, teams with double the enrollment, after struggling against them in 2011.

Andover had an offense hampered by injuries last year as eight players rushed between 125 and 481 yards. Chase Ogden, who led the team in rushing and averaged 120 yards per game, played in just four contests. He suffered a partially torn ACL on a touchdown run in a Sept. 21 game against Independence. He didn’t play after that game. Mason Biberstein, who also graduated after he rushed for 398 yards, finished time with a concussion. Senior Cole Gumeringer returns at quarterback after he completed 34 of 71 passes for 580 yards with seven scores and five interceptions and rushed 102 times for 468 yards.

Coach Dustin Delaney, a former Emporia State player and protégé of Hutchinson coach Randy Dreiling, built Emporia into one of the top 5A contenders. The Spartans advanced to the second round of the postseason in each of the last three years, losing to Hutchinson, Bishop Carroll and Salina South. Emporia also reached the second round in 2009 under then coach Bill Lowe. Before then, the Spartans hadn’t won a playoff game since 1990.

But Delaney left Emporia in May to take the Shawnee Mission East job vacated after four successful seasons by Missouri high school coaching legend Chip Sherman.

Assistant P.J. Marstall steps in as the head coach for the Spartans and will lead a team that features his son, Braxton, as the returning starter at quarterback and standout defensive end Parker Bass as senior leaders of a squad that features eight starters back on offense and nine on defense.

Marstall returns after he threw for 1,600plus yards last year, an even more impressive number considering Delaney’s run first flexbone offense.

Emporia did graduate Jerel Morrow, a University of Oklahoma State signee, that was one of the top defensive backs and receivers in Kansas, and a record breaking long jumper during track season.

Marstall is without his top two receiving threats from a year ago in J.L. Savage and Morrow, who combined for more than 1,500 receiving yards.

Goddard had been 3-16 the previous two seasons, but improved to 4-6 last year before it lost to Salina South in the first round of the playoffs.

This year, coach Scott Vang said the team’s strength is a defensive unit that has eight returning starters. The team is expected to have low numbers because of the recent split to form Goddard-Eisenhower.

Tight end Austin Chippeaux returns after he collected first team all-league honors. Tucker Vang is expected to step up at quarterback and Dakota Driskill and Beau Fisher are a solid 1-2 punch in the backfield. Senior center Drew Burns is the lone returner on the offensive line.

The top players on defense come in the back seven with cornerbacks and linebackers in Leslie Mauro, Fisher, Driskill and Vang.

“Along with them we have some very good d linemen in Gavin Craig and Josh Gilchrist,” coach Scott Vang said. “We also have a solid corner returning in Jesse Squires. All these young men played extensively last year and will be looked on to lead as we go into our second year.”

Goddard played the No. 14 hardest schedule in Class 5A and opponents outscored the Lions 354-209. The Lions haven’t won a playoff game since advancing to the Class 6A sub-state championship game in 2007. Those are the last playoff wins since a Class 6A runner-up finish in 1988.

Former Andale assistant and Hesston head coach Marc Marinelli takes over at Goddard-Eisenhower, now in its second year of existence.

Marinelli replaces Charlie Nally.

Last year, Eisenhower finished 1-8 with a 2220 Week 1 victory against Clearwater. Then, the Tigers lost eight games in a row. From Weeks 2 to 7, the Tigers scored 28 points.

Eisenhower lost 56-35 to Liberal in Week 8 and 27-17 to Goddard in Week 9.

The team tallied just 14 offensive TDs for the year, eight passing and six rushing. It had an 8/8 TD/INT ratio, averaged 2.5 yards per carry and had no player with more than 236 yards last year.

Senior David Cash is back after he led the team with 98 tackles, including six for loss. Eisenhower committed 19 turnovers and finished minus-6 in turnover margin.

Marinelli, who went 21-10 with three playoff berths in three seasons with Hesston, wants to improve and compete with league opponents and qualify for the playoffs.

“Commitment to the new system will be key for Tiger football,” he said. “ Everything is new to the players so it will take more effort and commitment than ever before. We must develop players in order to become a two-platoon team, and we must develop more depth on the offensive line by the end of summer. Defensively we feel that speed will be our strength as we run well at all positions, we will need to lean on that early while the offense improves.”

8-3 in 2012 / 2-1 in district / 5A Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division II Coach: Mike Lee (6th year, 34-26; 68-50 overall) Assistant coaches: Ken Dusenbury, Ernie Hager, Ben McKaig, Chris Weidert, Steve Siebuhr, Dustin Murray Offense: Wing T Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 6 Offense, 5 Defense Miles Starks, WB/DB, 6-0, 160, Sr.; Alex Jackson, LB, 6-1, 185, Sr.; A.J. Scholfield, OL, 6-2, 240, Sr.; Gage Moss, WB/DB, 5-9, 150, Sr.; Cole Gumeringer, QB/DB, 5-10, 160, Sr.; Cooper Nichols, TE/DE, 6-1, 200, Sr.; Steven Young, RB, 5-10, 180, Sr. Conor Nicholl

9-2 in 2012 / 3-0 in district / 5A Centennial League Coach: P.J. Marstall (1st year) Assistant coaches: Jay Adkins, Randy Wells, Mike Sauer, Travis Lee, Phil Thornton, Mitchell Garett, Terry Taylor Offense: N/A Defense: N/A Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 8 Offense, 9 Defense Braxton Marstall, QB, Sr.; Obed Barkus, RB, Sr.; Nollan Kirmer, RB, Sr.; Cody Campbell, RB, Sr.; Tanner Taylor, WR/DB, So.; Christian Grayson, OL, Sr.; Taylor Tatman, OL, Sr.; Josh Pearson, OL, Jr.; Parker Bass, DL, Sr.; Cody Swanson, DL, Jr.; Austin Gordon, DL, Sr.; Logan Highley, LB, Sr.; Nick Nelson, LB, Sr.; Dylan Schlote, LB, Jr.; Malik Livingston, DB, Sr.; Cody Campbell, DB, Sr. Conor Nicholl

GREAT BEND PANTHERS Great Bend started 5-1 last season, but then went 0-3 in district play against a field that included rival Hays High (31-13 loss), Salina Central (20-13) and Salina South (56-21).

The Panthers have just one playoff appearance in the last four seasons, mainly because of the rise of rival Hays. Great Bend had won eight straight versus the Indians, but HHS is 3-1 versus the Panthers since coach Ryan Cornelsen took over as coach. This year, the HHS/Great Bend game will likely again have major ramifications for coach Bo Black’s two goals – win conference and make the playoffs. Black said the team’s major key will be “to grow up fast” after Great Bend graduated 27 seniors. The Panthers went 7-1 on JV last year, but varsity will be a new experience for many.

In the WAC, Great Bend finished last in scoring offense at 219 points, but was first in scoring defense at 205 points.

Senior quarterback Bryce Beck returns after he passed for 223 yards and rushed for 353 yards.

“With talent in the backfield we will be as

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4-6 in 2012 / 2-1 in district / 5A Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division II Coach: Scott Vang (2nd year, 4-6) Assistants: Bobby Rehse, John Burkhart, Tom Beason, Todd Miller, Matt Gilmour, Chris Westfal Offense: Pistol Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 6 Offense, 8 Defense Drew Burns, C, 6-0, 220, Sr.; Austin Chippeaux, TE, 6-6, 200, Sr.; Beau Fisher, RB/LB, 5-10, 195, Sr.; Connor Kirby, WR, 5-11, 165, Sr.; Tucker Vang, QB, 6-1, 165, Sr.; Dakota Driskill, RB, 6-0, 170, Jr.; Josh Gilchrist, DE, 5-11, 200, Sr.; Jesse Squires, DB, 6-0, 145, Jr.; Lesile Mauro, LB, 6-1, 200, Sr.; Dakota Driskill, SS, 6-0, 170, Jr.; Jaron Palmer, LB/DE, 5-11, 180, Jr.; Gage Giddens, NG, 6-0, 290, Sr.; Gavin Craig, DT, 5-10, 280, Sr. Conor Nicholl

1-8 in 2012 / 0-3 in district / 5A Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division II Coach: Marc Marinelli (1st year, 0-0; 4th overall, 21-10) Assistants: Shane Harden, Enrique Espinoza, John Buckendorff, Cary Dinkle, Eli Schmidt, Shane Paulus Offense: Multiple Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 16 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 5 Defense Dylan Thompson, RB/LB, 6-2, 225, Sr.; Matt Pyle, OL/ DL, 6-1, 285, Sr.; Ryan Shay, OL, 5-11, 210, Sr.; David Cash, LB, 6-0, 215, Sr.; Brennan Stemple, WR/DB, 5-11, 185, Sr.; Josh Bosley, TE/DE, 6-2, 185, Sr.; Blake Lynch, K, 5-5, 140, Sr. Conor Nicholl

HAYS INDIANS

good as our young offensive line will be,” Black said. “We feel we will have a very good defensive line but will have to develop players behind them.”

Hays High features one of Kansas’ top players in junior quarterback Alex Delton, who is already receiving NCAA Division I interest.

Delton has posted a 4.52 40-yard dash, a bench max of 245 and a squat of 415 after a huge 5-4 in 2012 / 0-3 in district / 5A sophomore season where he collected first team Western Athletic Conference all-WAC honors. Delton passed for 1,310 yards Coach: Bo Black (12th year, 79-42) and 17 scores and rushed for 698 yards and Assistants: Randy Beck, Jay Black, Bill Maddy, Tony 11 TDs. Crough, Tyler Manwarren, Jeff Lutt, Kelly Brack, Dan HHS graduated running back David Cardinal, Eyestone, Brandon Wells, Bryce Wells, Ted Schmid a two-time WAC Player of the Year, and allOffense: Multiple Spread Defense: 50 Returning lettermen: 10 state lineman Cade Sharp.

Returning starters: 4 Offense, 2 Defense Senior Preston Weigel, a three-time state wresBryce Beck, QB, 5-9, 165, Sr.; Johnny Allende, RB, 5-10, tling finalist and two-time champion, was strong 180, Sr.; Nick Warren, RT, 6-4, 255, Sr.; Zach Reynolds, on both sides of the ball last year. However, past WR, 5-11, 180, Sr.; Jayce Brack, DT, 6-3, 265, Jr.; Greg that, the Indians will be very inexperienced, Burley, S, 5-9, 155, Sr. Conor Nicholl especially defensively after a school-record second straight playoff berth. In both years, HHS lost to the eventual state champion, Hutchinson and then Bishop Carroll, in the first round.

Weigel, Kenny Rounkles and Brandon Hardwick collected honorable mention all-league in 2012.

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HHS has won or shared three league crowns in Cornelsen’s four years. According to exhaustive research by Eagle broadcaster Dustin Armbruster, Cornelsen is already the first coach in Indian football history to win three titles. His 76.3 winning percentage is best in school annals and 16.3 percent above all but one coach.

“Our goal hasn’t changed, improve daily, win one game at a time,” Cornelsen said. “We have a lot of holes to fill, we must improve quickly to establish the strengths of our team. We will need to stay balanced in our offense and find 11 young men that will play great defense.”

7-3 in 2012 / 2-1 in district / 5A Western Athletic Conference Coach: Ryan Cornelsen (5th year, 29-9; 11th year, 82-22) Assistants: Steve Sedbrook, Gary Cornelsen, Chris Walters, Mitch Harris, Cole Cherryholmes, Travis Pfannenstiel, Art Schoenthaler, John Hafliger Offense: Off-set I Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 15 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 2 Defense Craig Dreiling, OL/NG, Jr.; Preston Weigel, FB/SS, Sr.; Alex Delton, QB, 6-0, 175, Jr.; Kenny Rounkles, TE/ DE, Sr.; Ty Whittington, OL/DE, Sr.; Brandon Hardwick, OL/LB, Jr. Conor Nicholl

Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

Page 23

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KC-FL SCHLAGLE STALLIONS

KC-JC HARMON HAWKS

KC-TURNER GOLDEN BEARS

KC-WASHINGTON WILDCATS

K.C. Schlagle has never won a playoff game in school history, but second-year coach Martez Wesley, in his ninth year at the school and second as head coach, has set a goal to advance to the playoffs and compete in the state title game. Wesley said the team’s keys will be summer workouts and staying healthy through the season. By mid-summer, Wesley hadn’t fully filled out his staff yet and was looking to hire three more coaches.

Last year, Schlagle tied K.C. Wyandotte for the Kansas City-Atchison League title, but the Stallions lost out on a tiebreaker. As well, the Stallions narrowly missed the playoffs. In Week 5, Schlagle lost 19-13 to Wyandotte. In Week 8, the Stallions lost 27-26 to Lansing in district play, a game that cost the program a playoff berth. Schlagle hurt themselves several times in the Lansing loss. The Stallions were up 20-13, but Lansing tied the game on a drive that had three Schlagle penalties, with two pass interferences and a personal foul.

Then, Schlagle fumbled the kickoff, Lansing took over from the 34-yard line and eventually took a 27-20 lead. Schlagle tied the game, but elected to go for two and missed on a running play. The Stallions had one final chance, but Lansing intercepted a pass in the final 2:13 to seal the victory. Senior Josh Bruce, a first team all-league defensive lineman, is the Stallions’ only returning all-league player.

Schlagle’s lone playoff appearance in this century came in 2009, when it lost, 49-0, to Gardner-Edgerton. The Stallions went 0-3 in the ‘90s and lost to KC Wyandotte, 14-8, in 1987 for the lone playoff appearance in ‘80s.

Seven senior starters are back for the Hawks, who are looking to bounce back after a winless 2012 season.

In all, Steven Jackson’s squad returns nine players with starting experience, including senior quarterback Dedric Bradley, three running backs and three offensive linemen. Senior Gage Peters, junior Donte Stuart and sophomore Austin Tudor give Harmon a quality backfield, while seniors D’Angelo Hicks, Kevin Fajardo and Jose Lazano will anchor the offensive line.

Senior Adrian Gaines returns at receiver, and senior Ramon Johnson also has starting experience.

Defensively, Harmon brings back Bradley, Gaines and Johnson in the secondary plus Fajardo, Hicks and Lazano in the trenches. Peterson, Stuart and Tudor all return with experience at linebacker.

Jackson said his team’s goals including getting better every day, continuing to build the program and competing for the league title.

“Our upperclassmen need to become a strong unit and help our younger players get better and prepared for Friday nights,” he said.

The Hawks open their season at Hogan Prep before hosting Wyandotte and Schlagle in consecutive weeks.

Turner brings back 23 lettermen, including five players with starting experience, from a group that went 5-4 a year ago in Jeremy Milne’s first season as head coach.

Just two of those players started on offense in 2012, so there will be plenty of new faces in the Golden Bears’ lineup this fall. Senior Paul Berry is back under center, and senior Sirr Green returns at wide receiver.

Defensively, Milne and his staff must break in an almost entirely new secondary and defensive line. Green is the lone starter coming back from the 2012 secondary, while senior Marquez Williams is the most experienced defensive lineman.

The Golden Bears do have a pair of linebackers returning to the starting lineup in senior Dakota Simkins and junior Kason Clark.

“Our goal is always to simply get a little bit better every day,” Milne said, adding that continued improvement throughout the season will be key to his team’s success in 2013.

Turner opens the season Sept. 6 at Bonner Springs, then hosts Mill Valley in week two.

Washington has never made a playoff appearance in school history, but looks to qualify this fall under second-year coach Bryan Salsgiver.

As well, Salsgiver has set a goal to win a league title. Salsgiver said the keys to success are staying healthy and competing every play.

Last year, Washington went 3-6 against the second-easiest schedule in Class 5A. Opponents outscored the Wildcats 278-177.

Washington lost its first two games, including 35-20 to Topeka West in Week 2. The game ended West’s 25-game losing streak. Then, the Wildcats defeated Atchison 20-19, KC Harmon 32-0 and KC Sumner Academy 26-21. The victory against Atchison was the second in as many years by one point (15-14 in 2011). The Harmon victory ended a three-game losing streak. Washington had lost four in a row to Sumner before 2012.

Then, the team finished with four straight losses with each defeat coming by more points: six, 15, 23 and 45. The three-game winning streak marked the longest since a five-game run in 2007.

Prior to 2012, Washington had won three, two, zero and four games in the previous four years.

The last winning season was a 5-4 record in 2007. Washington also went 7-2 in 2004.

5-4 in 2012 / 2-1 in district / 5A Kansas City-Atchison League Coach: Martez Wesley (2nd year, 5-4) Assistants: Lamar Chapman, Dariss Lomax, Kenny Lowery Offense: Pro Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 14 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 6 Defense Terry Hunter, SS, 5-8, 190, Sr.; Erick Jackson, DB, 5-7, 165, Sr.; Derrick Gibbs, DE/G; Phillip Thomas, OT/ DT, 6-2, 295, Sr.; Joshua Bruce, TE/DE, 6-3, 210, Sr.; Rodney McNeal, TE/DE, 6-2, 195, Jr. Conor Nicholl

0-9 in 2012 / 0-3 in district / Class 5A Kansas City-Atchison League Coach: Steven Jackson (3rd year, 3-15) Assistants: Jermaine Slay, Rick Malone, Taylor Wallace, America Patton Offense: Spread Wing Defense: 3-3 Stack Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 9 Dedric Bradley, QB/S, 6-0, 180, Sr.; Ramon Johnson, Ath/S, 6-0, 170, Sr.; D’Angelo Hicks, OL/TE/DL, 5-9, 230, Sr.; Gage Peters, RB/MLB, 5-8, 170, Sr.; Kevin Fajardo, OL/DL, 5-9, 220, Sr.; Jose Lazano, OL/DL/P, 5-9, 225, Sr.; Adrian Gaines, WR/CB, 6-0, 170, Sr.; Donte Stuart, RB/LB, 5-8, 215, Jr.; Austin Tudor, RB/LB, 5-8, 160, So. Melanie McGee

LIBERAL REDSKINS Liberal, which hasn’t made the playoffs since 2009, extended its conference losing streak to 19 games after it posted its second straight 2-7 season under coach Cliff Abbott.

In Abbott’s first year, opponents outscored the Redskins 370-199. Last year, opponents outscored Liberal 366-312.

This year, Liberal brings back virtually its entire starting lineup, including senior quarterback Britton Abbott and senior wideout/ defensive back Trenton Hammond, who ran a 37.22 in the 300-meter hurdles this past spring, the sixth-fastest time in Kansas state history, according to historian Carol Swenson.

Abbott completed 176 of 326 passes for 2,333 yards with a 19/10 TD/INT ratio and led the team with 178 carries for 909 yards and 15 scores. Hammond paced the squad with 1,749 all-purpose yards, 64 catches for 1,102 yards, seven TDs, eight passes defended and two interceptions. However, Liberal finished minus-5 in turnover margin.

Coach Abbott said the team’s goals are to win

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5-4 in 2012 / 1-2 in district / 5A Kaw Valley League Coach: Jeremy Milne (2nd year, 5-4) Assistants: Julian Parks, Andy Pinnell, Justin Lake, Derek Vann, Ryan Stephans, Mason Anthony, Troy Claycamp, Wade Church, Pete Neri, Alex Grogan Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: 23 Returning starters: 2 Offense, 4 Defense Paul Berry, QB, Sr.; Sirr Green WR/DB, Sr.; Dakota Simkins, LB, Sr.; Marquez Williams, DL, Sr.; Kason Clark, LB, Jr. Melanie McGee

3-6 in 2012 / 0-3 in district / 5A Kansas City-Atchison League Coach: Bryan Salsgiver (2nd year, 3-6) Assistants: Aaron McGhee, Darwyn Thomlinson, Josh Weakly Offense: Ground and Pound Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Shakair Love, WR/S, 6-2, 185, Sr.; Marvin Bowens, FB/ LB, 5-10, 225, Sr.; Derek Jones, TE/LB, 5-10, 205, Sr.; Kalem Harrison, QB/DB, 6-2, 170, Jr.; Javeon Williams, RB/LB, 5-11, 235, Jr.; Steven Peoples, OL/DL, 6-0, 245, Jr. Conor Nicholl

OP-BLUE VALLEY SOUTHWEST TIMBERWOLVES

the next game, be a playoff team, and keep the offense on the field with few mistakes.

Blue Valley Southwest is in its fourth year of existence, but has already enjoyed some history.

In 2010, it made the playoffs with a 3-7 record, 2-7 in 2012 / 1-2 in district / 5A but lost to Baldwin in the first round.

Western Athletic Conference In 2011, the Timberwolves opened the season Coach: Cliff Abbott (3rd year, 4-14) with five straight losses, but then won six games Assistants: Caleb Cline, Rob Green, Chase Olsen, in a row. That included a district crown with a Rob Wilson, Mike Cline, Duke Attereberry, Jason 15-0 victory against DeSoto when it forced six Dulap, Trace Haskell, Bo Abbott Offense: Spread Defense: 4-2 turnovers and held its opponent twice on fourth Returning lettermen: 25 down, including one time at the one-yard line.

Returning starters: 13 Offense, 12 Defense It eventually finished 6-6 with a 27-6 first round Jared Hasik, QB/DB, 5-7, 160, So.; Britton Abbott, QB/ win against Baldwin and a 41-14 win versus LB, 6-4, 230, Sr.; Mershek Wiltshire, WR/DB, 6-0, 170, K.C. Piper in the second round that gave the Jr.; Rayce Waeden, TE/LB, 6-2, 190, Sr.; Trenton Hamprogram its first-ever playoff wins and regional mond, WR/DB, 6-2, Sr.; Lorenzo Pando, WR/DB, 6-0, titles. The T-Wolves then lost to Paola 35-21 in 185, Sr.; Rex Heronemus, RB/LB, 6-0, 195, Jr.; Nolan Larkin, TE/LB, 6-2, 210, Sr.; Octavio Arredando, RB/LB, the quarterfinals.

5-11, 190, Sr.; Victor Carrera, K/DB, 6-1, 180, Sr.; Edwin Last year’s team finished 5-4 against the No. Sobalvarro, TE/DB, 6-1, 175, Jr.; Arturo Ortega, OL/DL, 7-hardest schedule in Class 5A and outscored 6-0, 220, Jr.; Shawn Lay, OL/DL, 6-0, 215, Sr.; Clayto opponents 278-214. It fell short of the playoffs Benson, OL/DL, 6-1, 215, Jr.; Dustin Friederich, OL/DL, because of a 28-21 loss to Blue Valley and a 6-3, 225, Sr.; Heath Parmenter, OL/DL, 6-1, 230, Sr. Conor Nicholl 29-28 defeat to Blue Valley West. Every game between Weeks 2 and 8 was decided by seven points or fewer – the T-Wolves went 3-4 in such For Delivery and Carryout

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This year, coach Bill Lowe looks to win conference and district titles.

“We will have to stay away from injury and our young offensive line will have to grow up fast,” Lowe said. “ We lost all five starters off our O-line. Must get better defensively and will be counting on a lot of young newcomers.”

5-4 in 2012 / 1-2 in district / 5A Eastern Kansas League Coach: Bill Lowe (4th year, 14-17; 33rd overall, 184-124) Assistants: Bill Lowe, Randy Lowe, Chris Thompson, Kareem High, Derek Pitts, Chris Stoneberger, Ryan Frievogel Offense: Flexbone Defense: Even front Returning lettermen: 11 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 3 Defense Johnny Dunlap, RB, Jr.; Luke Wilmes, RB, Jr.; Sam Randall, WR, Jr.; Sal Vanasee, FB, Sr.; Aleksei Cohee, S, Sr. Conor Nicholl

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OP-BLUE VALLEY WEST JAGUARS

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PITTSBURG PURPLE DRAGONS

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For the Blue Valley West Jaguars, the 2012 season marked the return to Class 5A after spending the previous four years in Class 6A. It also marked the Jaguars’ first trip to the playoffs since being crowned 5A champions in 2007.

But Scott Wright’s team was left with a bitter taste in their mouths after a heartbreaking 38-37 double-overtime loss at Bishop Miege in the state quarterfinals.

This fall, the Jaguars will look to ride the legs and right arm of senior quarterback Ryan Ralston (6-4, 220) back into the postseason.

Ralston threw for 1,730 yards and 12 touchdowns last fall and returns his top two receivers in Luke Curtis (827 yards, 3 TDs) and Spencer Johannesman (531 yards, 5TDs). Ralston also rushed for 963 yards and 25 touchdowns out of a backfield that featured a Kpreps 5A All-State selection in Conley Wilkins.

Replacing Wilkins may be West’s biggest challenge this fall. As a senior, the Drake University commit led the Eastern Kansas League (EKL) in rushing with 1,747 yards and 17 touchdowns. He finished his career with nearly 2,800 yards rushing.

Whoever steps in for Wilkins will run behind an offensive line that returns Michael Fairchild (6-6, 265) who has verbally committed to the University of Missouri. The Jags will have to replace Ryan Cipriani (6-4, 255), a Pitt. State signee.

On the defensive side of the ball, the Jags will have to replace leading tackler Alex Norris (88 tackles), and D-end Davis Clark (9 sacks).

The Jaguars do return senior linebacker Cale McMakin (77 tackles in 2012) to anchor a defense that will be tested in the ultra-competitive EKL.

Mike Thomas enjoyed a six-win improvement for St. Thomas Aquinas last year and led the Saints back to the postseason for the first time in three years. The Saints won the EKL title and reached the Class 5A sub-state championship game where it lost 9-7 to Bishop Miege.

Aquinas had defeated Miege 27-24 in Week 9 to win the district title. Aquinas went 5-2 in games decided by five points or fewer. In the 4-5 season of 2011, Aquinas was 3-0 in games decided by seven points or fewer, but lost five games in a row, including three by 20-plus points.

Carroll (13-0), Salina South (10-2) and Aquinas were the lone Class 5A teams to win double-digit games, while Emporia was the lone team to win nine games at 9-2. Aquinas outscored opponents 358-205 against the classification’s No. 13 schedule, according to preppowerindex.com. The previous season, opponents outscored the Saints 215-180. Aquinas graduated all-state lineman Dan Morin and all-state cornerback Nick Williams.

“Coming together as a team - new players coming together with the returners,” Thomas said of team’s goals. “Stay healthy (because we’re) not very deep. How we play early, a little success will help the confidence of our new players.”

The Pittsburg Purple Dragons will be focused on winning the Southeast Kansas League championship and faring better in district competition.

Last season, the Dragons lost 41-20 to rival Fort Scott and finished second behind the Tigers in the SEK League race. After starting the season 5-1, Pittsburg finished 0-3 in a competitive Class 5A district that includes Blue Valley West, Blue Valley and Blue Valley Southwest.

Pittsburg graduated several key players from 2012, including quarterback Spencer Bernhardt, lineman Dakota Taylor and linebackers Zack Woods, Nick Vacca and Anthony McNeeley.

The Dragons return only three starters on each side of the ball. However, those returners are high-caliber players.

Junior Alex Barnes returns at running back and linebacker after earning first-team allleague honors as a sophomore. Same for Drake Markley, who earned first team honors on the offensive and defensive lines as a sophomore.

The Dragons also return wide receiver and defensive back Ethan Paul-Davis, and offensive lineman Zach Stewart.

Pittsburg coach Tom Nickelson said developing trust on defense and avoiding injuries will be key for the Dragons in 2013. He also said the offense will need to avoid penalties.

“We want to improve daily, outwork our competition and play with a hunger and sense of urgency,” Nickelson said.

MaxPreps recently ranked Salina Central as the No. 13 football dynasty in all of Kansas.

However, Central fell back to a 3-6 mark last year, has missed the playoffs the last two seasons and is 0-1 in the postseason in the last four falls.

This year, Central looks to bounce back in its fourth year of a difficult district with Salina Central, Hays and Great Bend. Last year, the Mustangs played the hardest strength of schedule in Class 5A, according to preppowerindex.com.

Senior Barret Koch is the lone offensive line returning starter. Senior Malik Veal returns after he collected 114 carries for 575 yards and six scores in seven games.

“With new faces at key positions, the Mustangs will have to be fundamentally sound in order to make the strides necessary to compete for the league title,” coach Mike Hall said.

The Mustangs graduated Kade True (309 career tackles), Nathan Garlow (305 stops) and Mark Vaughan (seven sacks) from a team that allowed just 222 points (Central scored 164). In 2011, Central outscored opponents 297-275.

“There will be several new faces on the Mustang defense,” Hall said. “The Mustang defense was much improved last season, and they look to continue to build on their reputation this season.”

8-3 in 2012 / 3-0 in District / 5A Eastern Kansas League Coach: Scott Wright Offense: N/A Defense: N/A Returning letterwinners: N/A Returning starters: N/A Ryan Ralston (QB, 6-4, 220, Sr); Michael Fairchild (OL, 6-6, 265, Sr); Luke Curtis (WR/DB, 5-11, 160, Jr); Spencer Johannesman (WR/DB, 5-9, 180, Sr); Cale McMakin (LB, 6-1, 210, Sr); Sam Daily (DB, 5-10, 160, Jr); Sam Davis (DB, 5-9, 160, Jr); Troy Burgett (K, 6-2, 205, Sr) Matt Gilmore

10-2 in 2012 / 3-0 in district / 5A Eastern Kansas League Coach: Michael Thomas (4th, 30-12; 8th overall, 41-37) Assistants: Tim Lillis, Dylan Slaven, Pete Flood, Justin Gore, Sean Thompson, Dillon Jackel, Chris Johnson, Mike McGraw, Tom Cretors Offense: Spread Defense: 4-2 Returning lettermen: 17 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 4 Defense Danten Cosentino, QB, 5-11, 175, Sr.; Jack Pauley, DE/ DT, 6-3, 200, Sr.; Ben Ewing, DT/LB, 6-0, 200, Jr.; Joe Maxwell, LB, 5-11, 195, Jr.; Joe Henn, LS, 6-1, 260, Sr.; Jeremy Collier, K, 5-11, 190, Sr. Conor Nicholl

3-6 in 2012 / 1-2 in district / 5A Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division I Coach: Mike Hall (8th year, 39-31) 5-4 in 2012 / 0-3 in district / 5A Assistants: Travis Benoist, Tony Slothower, Alan Southeast Kansas League English, Rick O’Neil, Ernest Ballenger, Charles Black, Coach: Tom Nickelson (3rd year, 11-7) Assistants: Merle Clark, Ben Bernhardt, John Kotzman, Alan Schuler, Derryl Hill Offense: I-formation Defense: 4-4 Jeremy Moss, Leroy O’Bray, Trevor Elliott, Matt Butler, Returning lettermen: 17 Kris Mengarelli Returning starters: 5 Offense, 3 Defense Offense: Multiple I Defense: 4-3 Quintavian Hill, DL, 5-11, 235. Sr.; Malik Veal, RB, 5-9, Returning lettermen: 18 180, Sr.; Clint Ryan, RB, 5-10, 230, Jr.; J.W. Maldaner, Returning starters: 3 Offense, 3 Defense QB, 6-2, 195, Jr.; Barret Koch, OL, 5-11, 220, Sr.; Tanner Alex Barnes, RB/DB, 6-1, 205, Jr.; Ethan Paul-Davis, WR/DB, 5-9, 150, Sr.; Zach Stewart, OL, 6-0, 260; Drake Robl, LB, 6-2, 195, Sr.; Kamen Kossow, WR, 5-11, 155, Sr.; Cody Ade, DL, 5-10, 195, Jr. Markley, OL/DE, 6-3, 230, Jr. Conor Nicholl Mark Schremmer

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Last year, Mill Valley finished second in Class 5A in scoring offense at 494 points, trailing only state champion Bishop Carroll’s 628. The Jaguars went 5-0 at home and lost at Manhattan in Week 1 and then didn’t lose again until a 4123 loss to Bishop Miege in the playoffs.

This year, Russell native and former Derby 10-2 in 2012 / 3-0 in district / 5A assistant Joel Applebee looks to lead Mill Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division I Valley to its eighth straight winning season.

Coach: Sam Sellers (4th year, 22-17) Mill Valley has continually improved under ApAssistants: Chris Barkley, Jason Hooper, Dan Smith, Gary Seibel, Jim Wittman, Justin Ebert, Kanean Wendell, plebee. After a 9-2 record in 2008, the Jaguars have gone 6-4, 6-4, 7-3 and 8-2.

Steve Rivers Offense: Pro/Spread Defense: 4-4 “Our 2013 goal is to build off of the success Returning lettermen: 26 of the previous three seasons,” Applebee said. “ Returning starters: 8 Offense, 7 Defense We want to continue to improve on a daily basis Mike Jones, 5-9, 161, TB, Sr.; Justin Stonebraker, 5-11, on the field and in the weight room.”

161, QB, Sr.; Aaron Mar, 5-9, 163, WR/CB, Sr.; Zach Junior Evan Applegate (6-7, 270) is considNachbar, 6-2, 170, WR/CB, Sr.; Ryan Fox, 5-11, 220, ered a top junior prospect and will anchor a line FB, Sr.; Doug Dewindt, 6-1, 261, LT, Sr.; Kevirck Cox, that scored 70 touchdowns and averaged 429 6-1, 242, RT, Sr.; Walker Vinson, 6-3, 221, TE, Sr.; Kole Smith, 6-2, 273, DT, Sr.; Cade Calvert, FS, 6-0, 159, Sr.; yards per game. However, Mill Valley will have Ethan Mitchell, 6-3, 218, DE, Sr.; Dalton Harman, 6-2, to replace quarterback Skyler Windmiller, who 216, LB, Sr.; Garrett Mortimer, OLB, Sr. completed 137 of 235 passes for 2,231 yards Conor Nicholl with a 28/8 TD/INT ratio. He also led the team

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with 92 carries for 586 yards and 10 scores. The No. 2 rusher and top two recievers graduated, as well.

“Our QB position is going to be key,” Applebee said. “We have three viable candidates.

After that our offensive and defensive line play will be key to how well we play as a team.”

8-2 in 2012 / 3-0 in district / 5A Kaw Valley Le ague Coach: Joel Applebee (4th year, 21-9) Assistants: TJ O’Neill, Jamie Resseguie, Andrew Hudgins, Alex Houlton, Eric Thomas, Mike Strack, Justin Pickens, Rick Pollard Offense: Multiple Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 30 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 7 Defense Evan Applegate, OL, 6-7, 270, Jr.; Coltyn Gatton, OL, 6-1, 230, Sr.; Adam Swearengin, OL, 6-1, 240, Sr.; Zach Hanna, TE, 6-3, 200, Jr.; Nick Wilson, RB/WR, 5-10, 160, Sr.; Christian Jergen, WR, 6-2, 175, So.; Ryan Smith, DL, 6-2, 265, Sr.; Alex Rounds, DL, 6-1, 195, Sr.; Micah Clarke, LB, 5-11, 185, Sr.; T.J. Phillips, LB, 5-10, 190, Sr.; Tyler Garrison, LB, 6-0, 190, Jr.; Tyler Willard, DB, 5-11, 175, Sr.; T.J. Midiros, DB, 5-9, 165, Sr. Conor Nicholl

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for 425 yards, nine for scores and picked off five passes. Senior defensive tackle Kole Smith is formidable up front.

“He is a black hole in the middle capable of completely shutting down a team’s interior run game by himself,” Sellers said.

M

Salina South lost 27-14 to Derby in Week 1, and then reeled off 10 wins in a row before it fell to eventual champion Bishop Carroll in the sub-state championship game. The Cougars enjoyed a six-win improvement from 2011, won their first AVCTL Division I title, finished No. 2 in the final KPreps poll, the best season since a state title in 2004. This year, South returns 73 percent of its total offense, 56 percent of scoring and 58 percent of tackles.

“We are going to need our young kids to really step up and provide further depth and playmaking ability,” coach Sam Sellers said.

“With a very tough schedule, it will be critical that we continue to improve from top to bottom to set ourselves up for a playoff run. We have very high expectations.”

Running back Mike Jones collected 181 carries for 1,781 rushing yards and 17 scores last year, including a single game record 411 against Great Bend. As well, senior quarterback Justin Stonebraker threw for 873 yards and rushed for 806, while senior Zach Nachbar had 21 catches

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SHAWNEE MISSION-BISHOP MIEGE STAGS Jon Holmes’ first season as Bishop Miege’s head coach got off to a bumpy start.

The Stags lost four consecutive games to open the season with a 2-4 record. However, Bishop Miege rebounded to make the playoffs and finish as the Class 5A runner-up.

Holmes now hopes his Stags can build off the momentum from the 2012 playoff run.

“We want to compete for a state championship,” Holmes said. “We feel if we can compete in the EKL, we should have success at the state level. We want to build on our runner-up finish last season and continue to compete at a high level.”

The Stags return six starters on offense and five on defense from a team that surged to finish last season with a 7-6 record.

Bishop Miege linebacker Brad Ivey and defensive back McKinley Johnson return after being named to the Kpreps.com All-5A team as juniors.

Ivey, who is featured on the Kansas Pregame cover, is listed as the No. 10 recruit in the state

by Rivals.com.

The Stags must replace some good offensive linemen and all-state quarterback Montell Cozart, who signed with Kansas.

“The play of our offensive and defensive lines will dictate how we play this season,” Holmes said. “We return some experience up front, but also have to replace our best OL and DL from last season.”

don’t ever see freshmen play in our league, let alone at Mike linebacker. I’m sure opposing coaches are glad to have only one more year of him.”

Ivey (6-2, 220) earned Kpreps.com All-5A linebacker status during his sophomore and junior years. Last year alone, Ivey tallied more than 150 tackles.

Holmes said that Ivey has progressed each season.

“As a freshman, we didn’t ask him to do too much,” Holmes said. “We would call a blitz here or there. As he got older, he learned more and he could read the offense more. Now, he’s the guy who gets the signals. We’re asking him to get our whole defense set and to check out if the offense is in a certain formation. He’s been doing that since his sophomore year.”

Ivey played a big role in helping the Stags regroup after starting last season with a 2-4 record.

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STILLWELL-BLUE VALLEY TIGERS

Coach Eric Driskell led Blue Valley to a state championship in 2010, his first season as head coach, and then paced the Tigers to a state runner-up finish in 2011. Last year, the Tigers opened No. 2 in the Class 5A preseason KPreps poll, but finished 6-5 with a 23-22 second round loss to St. Thomas Aquinas. That was one of several close games for the Tigers.

Blue Valley also lost to Gardner-Edgerton (8-6), Blue Valley Northwest (21-14) and 7-6 in 2012 / 2-1 district / 5A Bishop Miege (28-12), but defeated St. Thomas Eastern Kansas League Aquinas (29-28) in the regular season, Blue Coach: Jon Holmes (2nd year, 7-6) Valley Southwest (28-21) and Shawnee Heights Assistants: Justin Hoover, Jim Giokaris, Travis Grosdidier, David Eller, Steve Koesterer, Zach Mann, Bob (17-10). Blue Valley was the only team to defeat Aquinas in the regular season. Blue Valley Tavernaro, Mike Galvin, Kevin Mulvany, Joe Kobilarcsik went 91 yards in 75 seconds and scored with 56 Offense: Pro/ Multiple Set Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 26 seconds left and Aquinas missed a 45-yard field Returning starters: 6 offense, 5 defense goal as time expired.

Ryan Burns, OL, Sr, 6-1, 250; Brandon Gonzalez, OL, Jr, In the playoff game, Aquinas took a 23-22 lead 6-0, 270; McKinley Johnson, WR/DB, Sr, 5-9, 165; Jeffrey just eight seconds into the fourth quarter and Martin, WR, Sr, 6-1 210; Michael Murphy, WR, Sr, 6-0, 165; Brad Ivey, LB, Sr, 6-2, 220; Kaelin Key, DL, So, 6-0, held off the Tigers the rest of the way.

This year, Driskell believes the team has 240; Zach Mahoney, DL, Jr, 5-10, 205; Keegan Wilson, RB, Jr, 5-11, 195; Jack Wirtz, DB, 6-0, 175 Schremmer more experience coming back and said the

IVEY / Continued from page 21

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development of new starters and the “continued role of leadership” among the returners will be keys to success.

“To give each of our opponents our best effort and let the score take care of itself,” Driskell said of the team goals.

6-5 in 2012 / 2-1 in district / 5A Eastern Kansas League Coach: Eric Driskell (4th year, 28-8) Assistants: Rick McNerlin, Paul Brown, Lew Rowe, Adam Kinzer, Allen Terrell, Don Hanna, Dan Cromer, Brandon Olney, Mel Foxx, Jonathan Jost, Larry Lindsay, Pat McRoberts, Geno Waters, Tony Scardino, Matt Shipley, Denny Brand Offense: Spread Pistol Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: 38 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 5 Defense Blake Freeman, OG, 6-4, 262, Sr.; A.J. Harris, OT, 6-5, 297, Jr.; Logan Brettell, QB, 5-11, 187, Sr.; Chance Nelson, RB, 5-10, 182, Sr.; Tristan Perkins, WR, 6-3, 177, Sr.; Mikey Henson, WR, 6-3, 184, Sr.; Henry McGrew, LB, 6-3, 241, Sr.; Jalen Cooks, DE, 5-11, 238, Sr.; Caleb Kjergaard, NG, 5-10, 227, Sr.; Joe Forlenza, LB, 5-10, 201, Sr.; Brandon Lee, S, 6-2, 189, Sr. Conor Nicholl

Bishop Miege went on to finish as the Class 5A state runner-up.

“We started out 2-0, so we had some good feelings coming in,” Ivey said. “Then we lost to four Blue Valley schools, and we were 2-4 out of nowhere. We were in our team meetings and were wondering what was going on. It was kind of like we knew that we could beat these teams, so let’s try and figure out what we could do to fix it.

“After you lose four, it’s like ‘Who’s still in? Who’s still in the game?’ … We all had to buy in. Once we got everyone to buy in, that’s when things changed.”

The four losses were to quality opponents and three of them were by five points or less. Knowing that and having All-State quarterback Montel Cozart on offense and Ivey on defense, the Stags had confidence going into the playoffs despite having a losing record.

IVEY / Continued on page 26

Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

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Shawnee Heights delivered a district title for the third straight year after it navigated a 3-3 record in the difficult Centennial League. The T-Birds lost 27-21 to Emporia in Week 1, then defeated K.C. Schlagle, 21-0, and Junction City, 17-7. After three straight losses to Topeka High, Washburn Rural and Manhattan by a combined 23 points, the T-Birds rolled through district play with a 38-7 victory against Highland Park, a 34-0 win versus Topeka West and a 23-16 victory against Topeka Seaman. In the playoffs, Shawnee Heights lost to Blue Valley, 17-10.

Blue Valley scored with 53 seconds left to take the lead.

In 2010 and ‘11, the T-Birds won a first round playoff game and then took big losses to Gardner-Edgerton. The T-Birds also won a first round game in 2009 and then lost to Aquinas in the second round. That was the school’s second all-time playoff victory and first since 1973.

Coach Jason Swift has recorded five district crowns, including four in the last five years and has nine playoff appearances in the last 10 seasons.

This season, the team returns three offensive starters, three defensive starters and punter Kameron Dawson, a second team all-league pick. Colton Kennedy was honorable mention all-league at wideout with 26 catches and a team-high 283 yards, and Dayton Pomeroy was honorable mention all-league at tight end.

“This year’s team has a chance to be special,” Swift said. “They are talented, skillful, strong and competitive. What will be neat is watching to see the correlation between having a great work ethic and reaching team success. One will drive the other, just like in life, and with our player’s tools if we work hard and don’t take anything for granted, we will find that success”

On Sept. 18, 2009, Topeka West defeated Highland Park 21-0. Then, the Chargers lost six in a row and had winless seasons in 2010 and ’11. Topeka West carried a 25-game losing streak that ended with a 35-20 Week 2 victory against Kansas City Washington. However, Topeka West lost the final seven games of the season and opponents outscored the Chargers, 402-74, for the season.

Second-year coach John Tetuan has set a goal to make the playoffs this year. Topeka West hasn’t won more than one game in a season since a 5-4 record under former coach Warren Seitz in 2005, according to the Topeka Capital-Journal prep database. West’s last playoff appearance was a 10-3 season in 2002. That year, Topeka West eventually lost to Salina Central, 14-6, in the Class 5A championship game.

“Hard work and play together as a unit on both sides of the ball,” Tetuan said of the team goals.

Tetuan was an outstanding prep athlete who graduated from Topeka Hayden in 1999.

He helped the Wildcats earn Class 4A state titles in football and baseball and picked up all-league honors in basketball. He was a first team all-American pitcher at Wichita State and played two years of minor league baseball for the Colorado Rockies. He also managed the Topeka Golden Giants, a summer college baseball team. Mark Luedtke is also on staff after he was the head coach at Wellsville for the last five years.

The Vikings return a solid group of starters from last year’s playoff team, and coach Blake Pierce has a good feeling about the 2013 squad.

“We will need to replace some key players from last year’s team, but I’m confident we have the replacements ready for that challenge,” he said. “I am looking forward to this season. I always enjoy the challenge of a new season and the opportunity to compete in the Centennial League.”

The Centennial League is always tough, but last year Seaman had the second-ranked offense and second-ranked defense in the league.

Running backs Jordan Jenkins, Sam Mizul and Joe Reagan – one of the state’s fastest sprinters (10.7 in 100m) – are all back from that offense, along with fullback Nick Devader and offensive lineman Malcoln Mikkelsen. Reagan ran for 1,050 yards and eight touchdowns last season, plus handled the punt and kick return chores for Seaman.

“We could be explosive offensively with the speed and athleticism returning this season,” Pierce said.

Defensively, the Vikings will lean on lineman Wyatt Hendrick, linebacker Reid Fehr and defensive back Brady Barnes. All three finished with more than 40 tackles in 2012.

5-5 in 2012 / 3-0 in district / 5A Centennial League Coach: Jason Swift (11th year, 52-53) Assistants: Brad Nicks, Doug Holmes, Michael Werner, Ryan Smith, John Oshel, Bob Phillips, Richard Lady Offense: N/A Defense: N/A Returning lettermen: 15 Returning starters: 3 Offense, 4 Defense Dayton Pomeroy, TE, Sr.; Colton Kennedy, WR, Sr.; Austen Hubert, WR Jr.; Zach Holmes, OL/DL, Jr.; Corey Ballentine, DB, Sr.; Travis Eklund, RB/LB, Sr.; DeJuan Gardenhire, FS, Jr.; Kameron Dawson, P, Sr. Conor Nicholl

1-8 in 2012 / 0-3 in district / 5A Centennial Coach: John Tetuan (2nd year, 1-8) Assistants: Jarod Tetuan, Jordan Brill, Kenny Swart, Mark Luedtke, Marco Hunter, Tyrone Barret Offense: Spread Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: 24 Returning starters: 9 Offense, 6 Defense Michael Mariani, RB/LB, Sr.; Klaloc Arzate, OL/DL, Sr.; Ryan Watson OL, Sr; Nick Cole, OL Jr.; Montoy Perry, WR/FS, Sr.; Christian Brooks, QB, Sr. Conor Nicholl

2-7 in 2012 / 0-3 in district / 5A Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division II Coach: Caleb Smith (1st year) Assistants: Dustin Little, Nick Barnes, Ben Niggemann, Jeff Sells, Jimmy McDowell, John Wetig, Dallas Boone, Tyler Dunham, Jordan Echer Offense: Pro-I Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 3 Offense, 3 Defense Alec Wetig, WR, Jr.; Zach White, RB, Jr.; Braden Janzen, OL, Sr.; Miles Balthazor, LB, Sr.; Evan Balthazor, DL, Jr.; Dylan Scheer, LB, Jr. Conor Nicholl

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WICHITA-BISHOP CARROLL EAGLES The Eagles were ranked No. 1 in Class 5A all season, steamrolled through the schedule and achieved the first football title since 1978. This season, Carroll returns its trademark veteran staff and plenty of players who saw significant playing time last year.

Carroll graduated 35 seniors, including 10 who went on to play college ball; a key position battle is at quarterback where senior Tyler Skilling or junior Colton Howell will take over for Zeke Palmer, a Shrine Bowler and Top 11 selection. The running game features senior Tory Smith, last year’s leading rusher with 1,079 yards, and Denzel Goolsby, one of Kansas’ top junior prospects with 331 rushing yards and 10 scores last year. The defense, which coach Alan Schuckman called “outstanding” last season, returns four starters. Schuckman, the longest tenured City League coach, said 20 players will fight for starting jobs on defense.

Seniors Patrick Dugan and Nate Stallbaumer combined for 109 tackles and 51 tackles for loss last year. Senior Ricky Sanchez is the lone O-line returner.

This year’s team will feature more than 100 players, including 26 seniors and will look to extend Carroll’s streak of 11 straight playoff appearances and 17 straight winning seasons.

5-5 in 2012 / 2-1 in district / Class 5A Centennial League Coach: Blake Pierce (10th year, 45-48) Assistants: Mike Lincoln, Jay Monhollon, Travis Brown, Tim Hebert, Jerrick Jorgensen, Mike Ragsdale, Steve Lincoln Offense: N/A Defense: N/A Returning lettermen: 15 Returning starters: 7 offense, 4 defense Sam Mizul, RB, Sr.; Jordan Jenkins, RB, Sr.; Joe Reagan, RB, Jr.; Malcolm Mikkelsen, OL, Sr.; Nick Devader, FB, Sr.; Brady Barnes, DB, Sr.; Wyatt Hendrick, DL, Jr.; Reid Fehr, LB, Jr.; Brad Piel, K, Jr. Melanie McGee

VALLEY CENTER HORNETS

Valley Center has struggled for many years, including a 2-7 mark last year where opponents outscored the Hornets 173-112. Valley Center finished No. 29 out of 32 Class 5A teams in scoring offense, according to preppowerindex. com. This year, Caleb Smith takes over for Pat Haxton, who has moved on to WaKeeney-Trego Community after three wins in three years with the Hornets.

Since 2004, Valley Center has finished 3-6, 0-9, 1-8, 3-6, 2-7, 0-9, 0-9, 1-8 and 2-7. This year, Valley Center has set goals to improve every day and “peak for districts.” Smith said the keys will be developing depth, buying into the new system and being a family.

Valley Center has a tough early season slate.

After Week 2, the Hornets played three road games in a row and five of its next six away from home. Last year’s team defeated Wichita Sunrise Christian Academy, 52-0, in Week 4 and then beat Goddard Eisenhower, 14-6, in Week 6. Valley Center hasn’t made the playoffs since three trips in four years from 1995-98 when Smith’s father, Mike, was the head coach.

Schuckman said the No. 1 reason for success has been the consistency in coaching staff.

Among other veterans, Jim Nance has served as offensive coordinator and Dusty Trail as defensive coordinator for all of Schuckman’s seasons.

“A staff that is faith-filled, knowledgeable, and loyal to Bishop Carroll football,” Schuckman said. “...Bishop Carroll’s staff has built tradition that can’t be beat by many other schools in the state.”

13-0 in 2012 / 3-0 in district / 5A City League Coach: Alan Schuckman (19th year, 152-40; 21st overall, 177-47) Assistants: Jim Nance, Dusty Trail, Jimmy Allen, Matt Bye, Mike Laubhan, Chris Jaax, Dave Armagost, Brad Carey, George Palmer, Kyle Molina, Mike Hecht, Offense: Multiple Spread Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 35 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 5 Defense Patrick Dugan, DE, 6-2, 230, Sr.; Nate Stallbaumer, DE/ LB, 6-0, 185, Sr.; Tory Smith, RB, 6-2, 190, Sr.; Scott Linnebur, WR, 6-2, 175, Jr.; Denzel Goolsby, RB/WR, 5-11, 180, Jr.; Mark Quaney, DB, 6-0, 180, Jr.; Josh Hornback, DB, 6-1, 175, Jr.; Jacob Fayette, DB, 5-9, 180, Sr.; Ricky Sanchez, OL, 5-9, 220, Sr.; Daniel Ohm, K, 6-1, 190, Sr. Conor Nicholl

Contact Jeff Paxton: 913-980-1233 or jpaxton@advancedexercise.com

IVEY / Continued from page 25

“When people saw us coming in at 4-5, they figured we might win the first round,” Ivey said. “We knew we weren’t going to pay attention to what everyone else was thinking. After we lost those four games, we started to find our game. We started to figure out what we needed to do. Once we got to the playoffs, we knew that we just needed to keep eliminating those mistakes and things would just roll our way.”

Bishop Miege opened the playoffs with a 41-23 win over Mill Valley then avenged previous losses to Blue Valley West and St. Thomas Aquinas before falling 60-21 to Bishop Carroll in the state championship.

The Stags lost Cozart, a University of Kansas signee, to graduation, but high expectations remain in 2013 for this traditional power.

“We play in a very tough EKL (Eastern Kansas League),” Ivey said. “Every year, we find a way to win in the EKL. If you can find a way to win in the EKL, you can find a way to win in the playoffs.”

Bishop Miege’s defense will rely heavily on Ivey.

“We got a lot of athletes,” Holmes said. “Up front, we have question marks on both sides of the ball. We will rely on our skill players on offense and Brad on defense to step up and make big plays when we need them.”

Ivey is listed as the No. 10 recruit in the state of Kansas by Rivals.com. He has offers from Toledo and South Dakota. According to Rivals, he also has interest from Kansas, Kansas State, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Oklahoma and Tulsa.

Holmes said he has complete confidence that Ivey can play at the NCAA Division I level.

“No. 1, he has great instincts,” Holmes said. “He’s a very smart football player. He watches a lot of film. He picks up on a lot of tendencies throughout the week. Second, is his speed. Some think he’s not fast enough to play at the next level, but he has the speed to make every play we need.”

Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

Page 27

Class 4A

By Kansas Pregame staff One more football season remains for Class 4A to showcase that’s it’s the toughest class in Kansas to win a high school state championship.

A year from now, 4A will be divided into two divisions with 32 schools in each, and with it, the deepest and strongest class of football in the state will go by the wayside.

But until that time, there’s still one more Class 4A state champion to be crowned this fall and from all accounts, this year’s winner could look remarkably similar to last year’s champion.

The Holton Wildcats, who won a third state title in 10 seasons under head coach Brooks Barta, is the favorite to win another one when the state title game is held November 30 in Salina. The Wildcats return a large number of big and experienced offensive and defensive linemen from last year’s 14-0 team that whipped Eudora, 21-0, in the state title game.

No less than seven starting linemen return for the Wildcats and another 11 are back after gaining experience a year ago. Very few teams in the state, regardless of class, can boast that kind of experience, talent and depth across the front lines.

“There’s a lot of experience and size on the offensive and defensive line,” said Barta, who is 173-30 in 17 years at Holton High. “Expect to see a lot of linemen rotating for us.”

Barta expects his lineman to carry the load early as the Wildcats break in a new quarterback to run the wishbone offense. Two-year starter Jaxon Wright is now at Pittsburg State. Two seniors – Jason Yingst and Ethan Holaday – plus junior Trey Tanking are expected to battle for that starting position. Drake Ewing (5-11, 190), last year’s leading rusher, returns for the Wildcats at running back.

The defensive ends and linebackers need to be replaced and Barta believes that is an area that needs to improve quickly. Holaday is a returning starter in the secondary.

Holton will knock heads with the rival Hayden Wildcats once again in district play. No team in 4A plays a tougher schedule than the Wildcats, who are members of the 5A and 6A-dominated Centennial League. Hayden finished a frustrating 4-6 last year, losing back-toback one-point games to Junction City and Emporia and 14-7 in the first round of the playoffs to Maize South, which is a 5A school in all other sports. The Wildcats return 28 lettermen, but just five starters for head coach Bill Arnold.

In order to get back to the title game, Holton will have to navigate the minefield of a deep and talented western half of the bracket, which features the likes of Buhler, Maize South, Andale, Collegiate and McPherson.

Maize South was 9-2 last year under head coach Brent Pfeifer and more good things are expected from the Mavericks, who are in their final year of 4A football. Eleven starters return, including eight from a defense that allowed just 9.3 points per game. Mitch Butterfield (6-0, 260) anchors the OL from his center position while fellow all-league players Ty Zorn (5-10, 215, DT) and DeSean Washington (5-10, 170, CB) lead the defense.

The Buhler Crusaders have been knocking on the door for years under head coach Steve Warner. Last season ended in the third round of the playoffs with a rash of injuries and a 15-0 loss to Mulvane. The Crusaders return 11 starters from an 8-4 team as well as two more impact players who had started before going down with season-ending injuries. Buhler returns one of the state’s top players in senior

overview

tailback Riley Allen, KPREPS.COM PRESEASON RANKINGS who rushed for 2,264 yards and averaged 1. Holton a staggering 12.9 2. Andale yards per carry.

3. Eudora “We have very good 4. Maize South senior and sopho5. McPherson more classes and we Others: Baldwin, Buhler, Bonner Springs, Coffeyville, Fort Scott, have juniors who can KC Piper, Paola, Tonganoxie, Wichita Collegiate make a big impact,” Warner said. “I feel when we combine all Eudora has a new coach in of these kids, we will have an excel- Kevin Kopecky, who replaces the lent team. The injury bug really hit highly-successful Gregg Webb. us hard last year.”

Kopecky comes to Eudora after Andale will once again be a team three years at Leavenworth and to be reckoned with under head 11 at St. Thomas Aquinas. The coach Gary O’Hair, who is 109Cardinals return 13 starters from a 24 in 11 years at the school. The 12-2 team that lost to Holton in the Indians return 11 starters, includstate championship game. Several ing 6-2, 185-pound senior Jared of those seniors have played in two Smarsh, who is the team’s quarconsecutive title games. terback, safety and punter. Four of Leading the Cardinals on offense the starters on offense are linemen will be senior quarterback Andrew and O’Hair expects them to lead Ballock, who rushed for 1,272 yards the way early in the season. The and 16 touchdowns and passed for Indians will be looking to improve 802 yards and eight more scores defensively in 2013. They averin last year’s run-oriented offense. aged nearly 40 points per game on Ballock will be working behind an offense, but allowed 21 per game offensive line that returns intact, on defense. They lost a 42-36 led by three-year starter Blake heartbreaker to McPherson in the Beerbower (6-2, 190) and Divisecond round of the playoffs. sion I prospect Justus Mertz (6-3, McPherson, know for years for 245). Ballock was also all-league their hoops prowess, has develas a free safety and is one of six oped into a football power under returning starters on a defense that 40 year head coaching veteran allowed seven or fewer points in Tom Young, who enters his eighth nine of 14 games last year. season as the head coach of the Kansas City Piper, the team EudoBullpups. McPherson was arguably ra beat in the semifinals a year ago, the second best team in class 4A could be right back there again. last season after giving the Holton The Pirates of head coach Chris Wildcats their biggest challenge in Brindle were 10-3 a year ago and the playoffs in a game that saw a two of their losses were to Eudora. run heavy Holton team complete The Pirates boast two of the top a 65 yard touchdown pass with a players in 4A – quarterback Tanner minute left to advance.

Eikenbary (6-2, 188), who has Young welcomes back exciting thrown for over 2,700 yards and 31 young quarterback Kyler Kinnatouchdowns as a sophomore and mon, who accounted for 3,000 total junior, and junior Colton Beebe (6yards of offense last year as just a 3, 245), who is a three-year starter. sophomore.

Beebe was the team’s leading tackler last year as a sophomore and is also a reliable fullback and receiver.

Coffeyville is another team that In addition to the players featured on the cover and inside back cover, these players are just a few of the best to keep an eye on in Class 4A this fall. could make a lot of noise in the Brendan Blackburn.......6-2, 275, Sr, OL, Fort Scott eastern half of the 4A bracket.

The Golden Tornados were 8-3 Tyler Burns......................5-11, 180, Jr, RB, Wichita Trinity last year. Two of those losses were close ones to Fort Scott and Courtlan Hayes...............5-10, 160, Sr, RB/DB, Independence Pittsburg before coach Murray Jordan Jackson...............6-1, 170, Sr, QB, Bonner Springs Zogg’s team lost to Louisburg in the second round of the playoffs.

Elijah Jones.....................6-0, 170, Sr, LB, Coffeyville ANDREW BALLOCK DRAKE EWING Eighteen starters return – eight on 6-3, 170, SR, QB/DB, EUDORA 6-0, 200, SR, RB, HOLTON Garrett Larson................6-3, 265, Sr, OL/DL, McPherson offense and 10 on defense.

“Our defense has a goal to be the James Newton................5-10, 150, Sr, WR/Ret, Coffeyville strongest defense we have ever Landon Root...................6-3, 200, Sr , QB, Wichita Collegiate had here,” Zogg said. “The key to our success is improved team Ian Rudzik.......................6-1, 205, So, RB, Ulysses chemistry and belief in each other Cody Snyder....................6-6, 270, Sr, OL/DL, Tonganoxie in tough games.”

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Photo by Marion McReynolds

Photo by Marion McReynolds

COLTON BEEBE

DESEAN WASHINGTON

Photo by Matt Gilmore

Photo by Matt Gilmore

Ben Walther...................6-6, 270, Sr, OL, Andale 6-3, 240, JR, LB, KC PIPER

5-9, 160, SR, DB, MAIZE SOUTH

Cooper Zeller..................6-2, 295, Sr, OL, Holton

Brought to you by this Crawford County attraction:

■ By Mark Schremmer For Kansas Pregame

Just a few days after Riley Allen was in Pittsburg for the Kansas Pregame cover shoot, the Buhler running back endured quite a scare.

Allen was preparing for the state track and field championships that weekend after qualifying in the 100- and 200-meter dashes, the long jump and the 4x100 relay.

Suddenly, Allen felt a pop in his foot.

For a moment, the all-state speedster was concerned his senior football season would be lost.

“There was that thought,” Allen said. “But I try not to think that way.”

Allen tore a tendon on the top of his foot, forcing him to wear a boot for three weeks and a brace for three weeks.

The good news is that Allen is expected to be 100 percent for the Crusaders’ 2013 season. The bad news was that he was forced to sit out the state track meet.

Allen was the anchor on Buhler’s 4x100 relay team that entered the 4A state meet with the best time.

Without Allen, the Crusaders finished sixth in the event. Success was expected in Allen’s individual events as well. His time of 10.85 seconds at the 4A regional track meet at Andale matched the winning state time set by Coffeyville’s James Newton. Allen’s regional time of 21.89 seconds in the 200 meters bettered the winning state time by more than half a second. A top 10 finish in the long jump would have been within reach.

“It was definitely disappointing to miss the state track meet,” Allen said. “Missing the 4x100 means more, because I was on a team with three other guys.

It was pretty disappointing, but we still have next year. I have to keep in mind that I have another year to do it.”

And Allen still has his senior football season ahead of him.

“I will be 100 percent when August gets here,” he said.

Allen’s junior season definitely gave Crusaders fans reasons to look forward to 2013.

ALLEN / Continued on page 31

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ABILENE COWBOYS

ANDALE INDIANS

ATCHISON REDMEN

BALDWIN BULLDOGS

Abilene had been 29-4 under coach Jeff Geist from 2009-11, but dropped to 2-8 last fall and still qualified for the playoffs. The Cowboys’ overall schedule ranked No. 34 in Class 4A, but Abilene played some very difficult opponents. That included a 51-20 loss to Class 3A champion Scott City, a 14-7 loss to Class 3A power Rossville, a 14-13 defeat to Clay Center, a 44-21 loss to Class 4A playoff participant Concordia, a 47-14 loss to Class 4A power McPherson and then district victories against Marysville (42-28) and Smoky Valley (27-15) to qualify for the postseason. The Cowboys also had seven players suffer injuries and three players quit. Abilene has now made the playoffs every year since 2007.

“There is no doubt I am excited about the 2013 season,” coach Jeff Geist said. “… The injuries and departures did allow us to play a lot of young kids, we are hoping that the experience coming back will give us a jump start early.”

Geist has a set a goal to go “1-0” every week.

Abilene graduated a solid quarterback in Andy Wilson. Chase Stalder will start under center and linebacker Colton Mills will be the defensive leader.

“Chase is a strong leader who works extremely hard,” Geist said. “With his confidence growing, I believe our offense becomes more successful. (Mills) will be our best player and tackler on D. I look for the others to feed off his enthusiasm. Staying injury free and playing together will be key.”

After a 5-6 season in 2011, Andale entered last year with uncertainty. Instead, the Indians delivered a four-win improvement last year and returned to its familiar place among Class 4A’s elite. The Indians opened the year with a 41-27 loss to Wichita Collegiate, then won nine straight, including a 36-31 Week 7 district victory versus Buhler, before the Indians fell 42-36 in the second round of the postseason.

Andale, the Class 4A champion in 2006 and ’07, return six offensive and five defensive starters, including senior Ben Walther (6-6, 265).

“We return several kids on the LOS on both sides of the ball, but we will be inexperienced in the offensive and defensive backfields,” O’Hair said.

Quarterback Jared Smarsh put together a solid year, including 224 passing yards in the second half of the playoff loss to McPherson. Hunter Knoblauch, also one of Kansas’ top basketball players, rushed 23 times for 194 yards against McPherson. The Indians outscored opponents 527-237 for the classification’s second-best scoring offense. In 2011, the Indians outscored teams 321-287.

The Indians did graduate all-state linebacker Jake Brand, but five returning starters should make for a stiff Indian defense.

Andale has won at least one playoff game every year since 2002.

Atchison defeated Tonganoxie 25-0 in Week 2 as part of a 4-1 start where the Redmen allowed just 42 points. However, the Redmen went 2-3 down the stretch, still qualified for its first playoff berth since 2008 and then lost 35-28 to Tonganoxie in the first round of the playoffs.

Atchison went 3-2 for third place in the Kansas City-Atchison league. But the season could’ve been much better. The Redmen’s four losses, three came by one, seven and seven in overtime.

Atchison did enjoy a three-win improvement from the 2011 and posted its most victories since a 10-1 season in 2006.

In the playoff loss, Atchison allowed 282 combined yards to a pair of Chieftain backs and trailed most of the game. Atchison quarterback Tanner Huntington returns after he passed for 291 yards and Wade Gassmann hauled in four passes for 112 yards and a score in the playoff loss. Huntington completed 80 of 157 passes for 1,441 yards with a 19/6 TD/INT ratio and Gassmann caught 15 passes for 310 yards and five scores on the season. Austin Housh led the team with 27 catches for 426 yards and six TDs. This year, veteran coach Jim Smith would like his team to “be prepared and focused” to win each game. Smith said the key will be the development of the offensive and defensive line after the squad graduated four seniors from the offensive line and two from the defensive line.

9-2 in 2012 / 3-0 in district / 4A Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division IV Coach: Gary O’Hair (12th year, 109-24; 23rd overall, 2-8 in 2012 / 1-2 in district / 4A 179-57) North Central Kansas League Assistants: Tim Fairchild, Clay Urbanek, Ted Easter, Coach: Jeff Geist (9th year, 51-31) Derek Deegan, Greg Smarsh, Dylan Schmidt, Jordan Assistants: Casey Callis, Nathan Howard, Brad HartUngles man, Cory Casteel, CJ Korf Offense: Offset I Defense: 4-3 Offense: Spread Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning lettermen: 28 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 5 Defense Returning starters: 7 Offense, 6 Defense Jared Smarsh, QB/DB/P, 6-2, 185, Sr.; Trevor Buckner, Keil Kelly, SE/CB, 6-3, 190; Jesse Reynolds, G/DE, 6-3, 190; Noah Callis, C/DT, 5-11, 185; Wyatt Youtsey, G, 5-9, OL, 6-3, 250, Sr.; Ben Walther, OL, 6-6, 265, Sr.; Mike 215; Colton Mills, LB, 6-0, 185; Tanner Hoekman, TB/LB, Maus, OL/DT, 5-7, 200, Sr.; Nathan Bergkamp, OL/DE, 6-3, 200, Sr.; Hunter Knoblauch, RB/DB/RS, 6-0, 175, Jr.; 6-1, 190; Dalton Goodwin, FS, 5-11, 165; Killian Millner, Logan Horsch, DB, 6-0, 185, Sr. TE/FS, 6-0, 215 Conor Nicholl Conor Nicholl

6-4 in 2012 / 2-1 in district / 4A Kansas City-Atchison League Coach: Jim Smith (15th year, 77-70) Assistants: Charley Harris, Bill Norris, Sam Funk Offense: Pistol Spread Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: 14 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 5 Defense Tanner Huntington, QB, 6-2, 165, Sr.; Austin Housh, RB/ WR/LB, 5-9, 165, Sr.; Wade Gassman, WR/DB, 5-8, 155, Sr.; Bennie Smith, WR/DB, 5-10, 175, Sr.; Tyler Harris, LB, 5-10, 185, Jr.; Dane Anderson, TE, 6-2, 225, Sr.; Richard Groshong, OL, 6-1, 235, Sr.; Preston Everett, OL, 5-11, 205, Sr.; Taylor Funk, DL, 6-2, 265, Sr. Conor Nicholl

Mike Berg has built Baldwin into one of the better Class 4A programs. Since 2003, Baldwin has gone 9-2, 9-2, 4-5, 10-3, 8-3, 2-8, 10-2, 6-4 and 7-4. Last year in the playoffs Baldwin defeated Spring Hill, 31-14, and then lost to Kansas City Piper, 27-21 in the second round.

In Week 4, Baldwin had lost to Spring Hill, 14-12. The Bulldogs, despite having to replace its entire backfield, outscored opponents 282157. Baldwin finished second in the Frontier League to Eudora, the eventual Class 4A runner-up.

This year, Berg has set goals to win league and districts and play deep into the playoffs.

Berg said the keys to success are the play of the offensive and defensive line. Baldwin did graduate Dayton Valentine, a 6-foot-4, 240-pound tight end/defensive end who signed with Kansas State.

Senior Chad Berg returns at quarterback to run the single wing that Baldwin has used since 2007. Berg was unable to play in the Spring Hill loss because of an injury suffered in the season opener.

In the playoff victory, Berg tallied the opening score on a 62-yard run and Austin Kraus, now graduated, also hit a school record 47-yard field goal.

Cornell Brown is one of the more talented athletes in class 4A and is expected to return to the Baldwin backfield for his senior season.

With 11 players with starting experience returning the Bulldogs could be prepping for a special season.

BASEHOR-LINWOOD BOBCATS From 2009-11, Basehor-Linwood went 8-2, 9-1 and 10-1, but slipped back to 4-5 last season and missed out on a Kaw Valley League title for the first time in four years. The Bobcats graduated tight end Ben Johnson, a Kansas Pregame cover boy from last year, who earned all-state honors and led the team with 42 catches for 598 yards and five scores and finished with 57 tackles and a team-high 14 tackles for loss. He is now playing for the University of Kansas.

They also graduated running back Drew Potter, who collected 166 carries for 1,123 yards and 15 scores and signed with the University of South Dakota.

The Bobcats lost quarterback Tim Sanders for nearly all of 2012 because an injury, but he is expected to return this year. Jake Phillips is expected to play more downs at defensive end after mainly playing linebacker last year. Phillips finished second with 95 tackles last year,

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while Cory McCleary is back after he paced the team with 122 stops.

“We believe in using the first 6 weeks to prepare to play well by district games in week 7-9,” coach Steve Hopkins said. “Our goal is to compete and improve week to week. We hope to be competitive in the KVL.”

7-4 in 2012 / 2-1 in district / 4A Frontier League Coach: Mike Berg (16th year, 90-61) Assistants: Scott Hall, Brian Turk, Jay King, Marc Bergan, Paul Musselman, Austin Inzer Offense: Single Wing/Multiple Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: 28 Returning starters: 9 Offense, 9 Defense Chad Berg, QB/CB, 5-9, 175, Sr.; Luke Fursman, TE/ OLB, 6-4, 210, Sr.; Quinn Twombly, OL/DE, 6-3, 230, Sr.; Colton Stark, OL/LB, 6-1, 210, Sr.; Reese Randall, C, 6-0, 220, Sr.; Christian Gaylord, OL/DL, 6-7, 275, Jr.; Jake Katzer, RB/LB, 5-10, 200, So.; Joel Katzer, RB/ LB, 5-10, 185, So.; Tim Craig, WR/S, 5-10, 170, Sr.; Tiler Garcia, RB/DL, 6-1, 225, Jr. Conor Nicholl

BONNER SPRINGS BRAVES

After exploding onto the scene as a sophomore, quarterback Jordan Jackson had a so-so junior year as the Braves had a three-win decrease. Jackson, now a senior, threw for 1,393 yards in just seven games and went 5-2 as a sophomore. Last year, he completed 100 of 204 passes for 1,274 yards with a 10/9 TD/INT ratio and also rushed 135 times for 720 yards and 4-5 in 2012 / 1-2 in district / 4A eight scores. As a team, the Braves had just 11 Kaw Valley League rushing TDs and just 21 offensive scores overCoach: Steve Hopkins (10th year, 50-39; 15th year, all. Bonner Springs finished with 21 turnovers 92-52) last year; in 2011, it had only 10.

Assistants: Brian Lohafer, Travis Inlow, Ron Barnes, This year, coach Lucas Aslin, the one-time John McPherson, DeAngelow Brooks coach at Derby and at Garden City Community Offense: Multiple Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 24 College, has set goals to come together “more Returning starters: 5 Offense, 5 Defense as a team,” compete everyday and win districts Nick Chaney, OL/Dl, 6-1, 291, Sr.; Jay O’Bryan, OL/DL, and have the opportunity to play well in the 5-11, 233, Sr.; Jared Hiss, OL, 6-0, 236, Jr.; Brock Lindplayoffs. say, WR, 6-2, 183, Sr.; Jake Phillips, RB/LB, 5-11, 203, The Braves outscored opponents 356-330 en Sr.; Cory McCleary, LB, 5-10, 174, Sr.; Layne Roberts, S, 5-9, 162, Jr. Conor Nicholl route to a 6-4 season in 2011 and opponents outscored Bonner Springs 202-159 last year.

The Braves played in Class 5A before moving down to 4A in 2012. It started 3-0 before six straight losses. In districts, the Braves lost

games by 10 and one in overtime and also fell 29-23 to K.C. Piper in regular season action on the game’s final play.

“The key to our success in 2013 is how we play up front on both sides of the football,” he said. “ If we can find away to run the football consistently and stop the run we have the ability to be a very solid football team in 2013.”

3-6 in 2012 / 0-3 in district / 4A Kaw Valley League Coach: Lucas Aslin (3rd year, 9-10; 8th overall, 37-33) Assistants: John Hilton, Ryne Huff, LaDrew Murrell, Anthony Brown, Steve Cline, Monty Bechard, Eric Kinney Offense: Pistol Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: 22 Returning starters: 7 Offense, 7 Defense Jordan Jackson, QB, 6-1, 170, Sr.; Jared Knernschield, RB, 5-11, 200, Sr.; Travis Dooley, WR, 6-1, 160, Sr.; Weston Vitt, WR, 5-9, 165, Sr.; Les Wessel, OL, 6-3, 275, Sr.; Jake Wylie, OL, 6-2, 265, Jr.; Darian Neal, TE, 6-1, 200, Sr.; Anthony Kubas, DB, 6-1, 165, Sr.; Roman Glenn, DB, 5-10, 165, Jr.; Thaddeus Glenn, DB, 5-10, 165, Jr.; Kyle Dumler, DT, 6-4, 315, Sr.; Jack Klingele, DE, 6-6, 210, Sr.; Darryl Terrell, LB, 5-10, 190, Jr.; Devin Burke, LB, 5-11, 200, Sr. Conor Nicholl

Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

Page 31

ALLEN / Continued from page 29

After serving as a backup to all-state running back Tanner Fisher his freshman and sophomore seasons, Allen made a name for himself in the first game of his junior season. Allen rushed for 278 yards and four touchdowns in the 26-21 season-opening win over then defending state champion Rose Hill. He had rushed for just 370 yards and six touchdowns when he was a reserve for Fisher as a sophomore.

His underclassman numbers could have been larger, but Buhler coach Steve Warner didn’t want to use Allen to run up the score late in games.

“As a reserve, we didn’t want to put him in too much when we got the lead, because we were afraid he would score,” Warner said.

Allen has followed in the line of great Buhler running backs Jordan Oden and Fisher. However, Allen’s running style may be the easiest to describe.

“I’m a speed guy,” Allen said matter of factly.

Warner has been pleased to see Allen follow in the footsteps of Oden and Fisher, who both set school rushing records while they were at Buhler.

“We’ve had some great tailbacks,” Warner said. “He just took off right after the other ones. He had a great opening game against Rose Hill and continued to have a great season.”

Allen was named an all-Class 4A running back by Kpreps.com.

Warner said he is expecting even more from Allen (5-11, 185) as a senior. The tailback has added about 15 pounds of muscle without losing any speed, Warner said.

6A OVERVIEW / Continued from page 13

the addition of Sherman at Northwest, the four coaches in District 4 – Wier, Sherman, Jeff Gourley (Olathe South) and Marvin Diener (Gardner-Edgerton) – have won a combined 19 state championships.

Gardner-Edgerton features one of the state’s top players in running back Traevohn Wrench, who has committed to Kansas. Wrench (6-1, 206) ran for 2,269 yards and 25 touchdowns last year. He will be complemented in the backfield by senior quarterback Jared Hobby, who threw for 1,326 yards and 12 scores.

The Trail Blazers were 6-4 last year and lost a tough 34-32 decision to Lawrence in the first round of the playoffs. A total of 13 starters, including nine on offense, return from that team.

Lawrence Free State could be the 6A representative in the title game from the east. In 2012 they posted their second double digit win total since 2000 going 10-2 and losing to eventual champion SM West in the semi-finals after beating the Vikings 28-14 in week two of the season - the 6A champs only loss on the year.

While the Firebirds will miss the loss of quarterback Kyle Mcfarland and lineman Cody Stanclift to graduation they welcome back all-league safety Joe Dineen, d-lineman Fred Wyatt, and a trio of talented linebackers in Keith Loneker, Stan Skwarlo, and Blake Winslow. Dineen - expected to take over the reins at QB this year - has committed to play safety at the University of Kansas, while Wyatt plans to play collegiately at Northwestern.

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“Overall, his speed is faster,” Warner said. “He can use all of his quickness. He’s so much bigger now that he will be more powerful. He’s worked in the weight room.”

Allen is a good start to a team that is expected to contend in 4A after finishing 8-4 and advancing to the third round of the playoffs last year. The Crusaders return five starters on offense and four on defense.

“We have high expectations,” Warner said. “We have a strong senior class. We have an awfully strong group of sophomores. We want to make the state championship and win one. Those are our goals. We’re going to keep working and keep doing the right things.”

Allen has set his goals high as well.

“Individually, there are records I want to break,” he said. “But as a team, we want the state championship. That’s what everyone wants.”

Collegiately, Allen has received some interest from schools for football and track and field. Allen said he has been hearing more from schools about track than football.

Warner said he expects the football interest to increase once Allen achieves more success as a senior.

“I think he’s going to be a great college football player,” Warner said. “I’m surprised more colleges aren’t recruiting him. I think after he has a great senior season, they’re going to realize how good he is and start coming after him.”

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

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Riley Allen opened the season with a 278yard, four-TD performance against defending Class 4A champion Rose Hill. Allen finished with 2,264 yards and joined Jordan Oden and Tanner Fisher as Crusader running backs to surpass 2,000 yards in the last four years. Buhler finished 8-4 with playoff wins against Ulysses and Concordia and a 15-0 loss to Mulvane, a team the Crusaders lost to 38-34 in the regular season.

Buhler, which finished as district runner-up to Andale last year, went 0-4 against teams ranked in KPreps.com’s final five in 4A with the losses to Mulvane and also defeats to McPherson and Andale. Buhler was 3-2 in games decided by seven points or fewer and 3-2 in league play.

The Crusaders return senior defensive end Brendan Martens and senior defensive back Denton Branscom. Both players suffered injuries last year. Coach Steve Warner calls them “impact players.” Allen is one of Kansas’ top players.

“We have a very good senior class and soph. class,” Warner said. “We have juniors that can make a big impact. I feel when we combine all of those kids together we will we have an excellent team. Last year, the injury bug really hit us hard. Riley Allen is a tremendous athlete.

He had a great junior year, and we are expecting him to have a great senior year.”

Santa Fe Trail defeated Ottawa 26-20 in the final game of the 2010 season, but has lost 18 in a row since. Fourth-year coach Jayson Duncan has set a goal to win several games this year.

Duncan said one of the keys is improving on the offensive line. Last year, the Chargers started three sophomores and a freshman.

Defensively, Duncan said the main key is not giving up the big play.

“Too many big plays,” he said.

In 2011, opponents outscored Santa Fe Trail 396-168. Last year, it was 318-75. The Chargers had a couple of competitive losses early, especially Hoyt-Royal Valley in Week 1 (40-20), Perry-Lecompton in Week 3 (20-15) and Sabetha (21-6) in Week 5. Santa Fe Trail fell 20-8 to Ottawa in Week 9. It never scored more than 20 points in a game and finished second-to-last in 64-team Class 4A in scoring offense. Only 0-9 Baxter Springs scored fewer points with 60.

This year’s team returns seven offense and eight defensive starters, including junior quarterback Weston Gloss.

Santa Fe Trail hasn’t made the playoffs since 2001. It made the Class 4A sub-state championship game in 1994 and ’96 and lost to Wellington in the state title game in 1982 and also made the semifinals in 1984.

New head coach Jason Feeback will be looking to replace a lot of talent from last year’s Chanute Blue Comets team that finished 7-5 and advanced to the Class 4A state quarterfinals.

Feeback takes over for Don Simmons, who left to coach at Shawnee Mission North.

Chanute will be without nine players who earned all-Southeast Kansas League honors last season, including quarterback Brock Gilmore, lineman Cody Howell, wide receiver Seb Fairchild, lineman Jack Martin, defensive back Evan Hale, lineman Josh Smeed, defensive back Abron Weaver, running back Blake Kisner and return man Jared Fiscus.

The Blue Comets will need its young players to step up in a competitive league and district.

“We will have a number of unproven players looking to make their mark in 2013 in positions,” Feeback said. “The key to our success is to have players ready to compete at a high level week in and week out. We have a tough schedule featuring Mulvane and the always competitive SEK. Every week, we must come to compete with our absolute best effort.”

Chanute should be strong on special teams with all-league kicker A.J. LaRocca, all-league punter Caleb Dietsch and all-league return man Ethin VanAnne all back.

The Blue Comets should be strong up front with Lake Lund, Gus Walker and Loren Dilman on the offensive line. VanAnne and Alex Son lead the linebacker corps.

Chapman delivered a 14-2 Week 2 victory against Gypsum-Southeast of Saline, a win that ended a 25-game losing streak that stretched back to Week 3 of the 2009 season. The skid was Kansas’ second-longest at that time.

Chapman nearly qualified for the postseason for the first time since 2007; the last playoff win was a quarterfinal trip in 2005. Chapman finished 4-5 under coach Trevor Williams, now entering his third season with the Irish and 15th overall.

Chapman defeated Abilene 29-28, but lost to district champion McPherson 42-24 and 21-14 to Smoky Valley. Abilene, Smoky Valley and Chapman all tied with 1-2 district records, but Abilene earned the second playoff spot on points. The Cowboys were minus-2 in points, while Chapman was minus-18 and Smoky Valley was minus-19.

Chapman had a big improvement in scoring offense and scoring defense from 2011 to ’12.

In 2011, opponents outscored the Irish 31391. Last year, opponents outscored the Irish, 212-200.

This year’s team brings back six offensive and five defensive starters. Williams expects to compete for league and district titles and believes the team “will be very competitive” this year.

“Developing depth this summer and having great attitude and effort,” Williams said of the team’s keys.

7-5 in 2012 / 2-1 in district / 4A Southeast Kansas League Coach: Jason Feeback (1st year, 0-0; 3rd overall, 11-7) Assistants: Travis Burk, Clete Frazell, Kent Frazell, Doug Jackett, Mike Martin, Zack Murry Offense: Spread Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 4 Offense, 3 Defense Trey Ellis, DE, Sr.; A.J. LaRocca, K, Sr.; Lake Lund, OL, Sr.; Alex Son, LB, Jr.; Ethin VanAnne, LB, Jr.; Caleb Dietsch, P, Sr.; Derek Sharp, WR, Jr.; Gus Walker, OL, Jr.; Loren Dilman, OL, Jr. Mark Schremmer

4-5 in 2012 / 1-2 in district / 4A North Central Kansas League Coach: Trevor Williams (3rd year, 4-14; 15th overall) Assistants: Tom Smith, Brian Sweet, Mark Mayberry, Mark Snider, James Bell Offense: Split Back Defense: 3-5-3 Returning lettermen: 13 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 5 Defense Logan Lexow, RB/LB, 6-2, 195, Sr.; Gavin Canaday, WR, 6-2, 210, Sr.; Thomas Meuli, WR/FS, 5-11, 165, Jr.; Stone Hayden, C, 5-9, 180, Sr.; Jason Zook, OL, 6-3, 255, So.; Blake Atkinson, OL, 5-10, 250, Jr.; Riley O’Neil, LB, 5-11, 190, Sr.; Zach Watt, LB, 5-9, 185, Sr.; Robert Walch, DL, 5-10, 195, Sr. Conor Nicholl

8-4 in 2012 / 2-1 in district / 4A Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division III Coach: Steve Warner (7th year, 65-19, 26th overall, 187-79) Assistants: Jason Kohls, John Neill, Jason Williams, Kevin Ruda, Brian Moler, Willie Adkins, Mike Zeyen, Garrett Hotmar Offense: I-formation Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 7 Offense, 3 Defense Riley Allen, TB, 6-0, 175, Sr.; Luke Berblinger, QB, 6-0, 198, Sr.; Nick Meitler, G, 5-9, 210, Sr.; Jon Yates, T, 6-2, 225, Sr.; Zac Stiles, WR, 5-10, 180, Jr.; Henry Hickert, G/T, 5-11, 190, Sr.; Chase Shantz, WR, 6-2, 180, Jr.; Ryan Norquist, DB, 6-0, 165, Sr.; Dalton Stoss, DB, 5-8, 160, Sr.; Jake Mullins, LB, 5-11, 170, Sr. Conor Nicholl

0-9 in 2012 / 0-3 in district / 4A Big Seven League Coach: Jayson Duncan (4th year, 1-26) Assistants: Denver Ramsey, Bob Hug, Don Herren, Regan Erickson Offense: Wing T Defense: 5-2 Returning lettermen: 17 Returning starters: 7 Offense, 8 Defense Darric Cashier, RB/LB, 5-10, 195, Jr.; Tyler Mundy, WR/ CB, 6-1, 150, Sr.; Chase Logan, RB/LB, 6-1, 175, Sr.; Dalton Baumann, OL, 6-3, 306, Jr.; Weston Gloss, QB, 6-2, 185, Jr.; Chaz Wright, RB/S, 5-8, 165, Jr.; Jared Uhl, DL, 5-10, 190, Sr.; Skylar Swaney, OL, 6-1, 215, Jr.; Gabe Forrestt, DL, 5-9, 215, So. Conor Nicholl

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CHENEY CARDINALS Cheney went 4-5 for the fourth straight season and has continued to struggle against the top teams on its schedule. Since 2003, the Cardinals are 0-9 against Garden Plain, 0-3 against Andale and 2-7 versus Conway Springs. Cheney lost to all three of those teams last year by at least 13 points in each contest. In district play, Cheney lost to Nickerson 26-20, Buhler 21-0, and Andale 42-6.

“To keep improving every day, learning how to compete for a full game and learn how to finish a game,” coach Cory Brack said of the team’s goals. “We have to build off last year’s success, but we have to finish the year strong no matter what district we are in. Hopefully we can stay healthy.”

Last season, Cheney played the No. 21-hardest schedule in Class 4A and opponents outscored the Cardinals 186-172. In Brack’s first year, opponents outscored Cheney 227-163 as the Cardinals played the No. 38 SOS, according to preppowerindex.com.

“Again our leadership from our senior class,”

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Brack said of the team keys. “I put a lot of responsibility on them to become positive leaders. If we don’t put the time in the weight room, we will not be very successful, great for injury prevention and team building. We have to continue to become a family/team.”

Clay Center started 4-0 last year with a quality 33-26 Week 1 victory against Riley County, a 28-7 Week 2 win against Thomas More Prep-Marian - when it tallied more than 500 yards of offense and held the Monarchs to one first down - a 14-13 Week 3 win against Abilene and a 28-0 Week 4 win versus Marysville.

4-5 in 2012 / 0-3 in district / 4A Clay Center then fell 19-8 to Chapman in Central Plains League Week 5 and lost to Wamego, 35-12, in Week 6.

Coach: Cory Brack (2nd year, 4-5; 7th overall, 24-41) The Tigers went 2-1 in district play with Assistants: Justin Bearley, Lee Baldwin, Darrin San victories by a combined 15 points before losing Romani, Layton Nance 34-17 to McPherson in the first round of the Offense: Multiple Defense: 4-3 playoffs.

Returning lettermen: 14 Returning starters: 3 Offense, 5 Defense Clay Center graduated its top playmaker in Tyler Amsink, QB, 6-3, 175, Sr.; Cooper Price, RB/DE, Caleb Carson. He completed 52 of 103 passes 6-0, 200, Sr.; Wade Dome, TE/DE, 6-1, 180, Sr.; Connor for 606 yards with a 4/6 TD/INT ratio. He also Hicks, OL/DE, 5-10, 170, Sr.; Tyler Trego, RB/LB, 5-10, 170, Jr.; Dylan Heck, WR/DB, 5-8, 135, Jr.; Isaiah Grover, rushed 180 times for 1,003 yards and 12 TDs. Carson also caught eight passes for 108 yards RB/LB, 5-8, 175, Jr. Conor Nicholl and a TD and added 177 special team/interception return yards.

Senior Danny Ellis returns after he tallied 556 all-purpose yards, second-most to Carson. The top five tacklers all graduated.

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Clay Center has lost nine straight playoff games dating back to a 28-14 first-round victory against Topeka Hayden in 1993. The Tigers made it to the Class 4A sub-state game in 1983, the only time in school history the Tigers have made it past the second round.

6-4 in 2012 / 2-1 in district / 4A North Central Kansas League Coach: Todd Rice (5th year, 21-19; 20th overall, 105-85) Assistants: J.D. Lane, Zac Malcolm, Ben Last, Tom DeBauche, Marc Lane Offense: Spread Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: 22 Returning starters: 3 Offense, 5 Defense Austin Fleming, OL/LB, 5-10, 210, Sr.; Tyler Bisnette, OL/DL, 5-9, 230, Sr.; Lody Black, OL/DL, 5-9, 200, Sr.; Danny Ellis, LB, 5-10, 185, Sr.; Ricky Huse, DB, 5-10, 170, Jr. Conor Nicholl

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COLUMBUS TITANS

The Indians saw a four-win dropoff last year and had the unique result line of L-W-L-WL-W-L-W-L. Clearwater did lose 22-20 to Goddard-Eisenhower and 38-35 to Wichita Collegiate, but beat Augusta in a close game, 28-20.

Coach Dirk Ankerholz said the team’s strength is four returning starters on the offensive line.

The Indians’ weaknesses are having to replace most of the defensive line and having four of the last five games on the road. Ankerholz would like his squad to be a more consistent team, compete for a league title and win district.

Clearwater’s last playoff victory came in 2008, the last postseason win since 1982-83. Tyler Hampton, formerly the coach for one year at Ellsworth, returns to the Clearwater staff as an assistant again.

“The younger players have to season quickly,” Ankerholz said. “The offense has to gel quickly.

Commit fewer penalties.”

The Coffeyville Golden Tornado took another step forward in 2012, finishing with an 8-3 record and with a trip to the second round of the Class 4 playoffs.

With eight starters returning on offense and 10 on defense, Coffeyville looks to take another big step in 2013.

“Our goal is to win the SEK, to win our district for the fourth year in a row and to win a state championship,” Coffeyville coach Murray Zogg said. “We also want to be one of the highest scoring offenses in the state and in the SEK history. Our defense has a goal to be the strongest defense we have ever had.”

Coffeyville has set big goals indeed, but the expectations do have merit.

The speedy James Newton returns after earning first-team All-SEK honors as a receiver and kick returner. Tight end/linebacker Elijah Jones, lineman Hunter Wright, wide receiver/defensive back Darron Deffebaugh, defensive lineman Demarco Shoat, quarterback Nathan Finley¸ offensive lineman Brad Stansbury, defensive lineman Jamal Logan, linebacker Nick Wintjen and punter Hubert Thompson also return after receiving all-league recognition last year.

Chris Gardner led Colby to the playoffs in 2008 and ’09, but the Eagles have fallen on hard times the last three years with records of 4-5, 2-7 and 2-7. Those two playoff appearances were the first postseason berths since 1997.

Colby is 0-5 in its playoff history with its other two berths coming in 1990 and 1980, according to preppowerindex.com.

Gardner said the keys to the season are a strong summer and working in the weight room.

Unlike the 2-7 season in 2011, Colby had few blowout losses. The Eagles opened the season with a 20-15 victory against Oakley, a team that eventually finished fifth in the final Class 2-1A poll. The Eagles rushed for 363 yards in the contest, but never reached that total again.

Colby also lost 26-23 to Norton, 25-19 to Clay Center and 20-8 to Goodland with the last two games coming in district action. Against Norton, Colby outgained the Bluejays 336-236 and had just 44 penalty yards, 28 fewer than the Bluejays. Colby could have won, but had a kick blocked in the fourth quarter and then lost in overtime.

“We need to improve on finishing games, compete for a league championship, and return to the playoffs,” Gardner said.

Senior Andrew Taylor finished second with 56 tackles, most amoung returners.

A strong start will be a priority for the Columbus Titans this fall.

Columbus opened last season with an 0-3 record after losses to the Southeast Lancers, Fort Scott Tigers and Girard Trojans. Still, the Titans were able to muster a 4-6 record and advance to the first round of the Class 4A playoffs.

The Titans return six starters on each side of the ball.

Junior quarterback Nate Bole (5-11, 160) is expected to lead the offense after earning honorable mention all-Crawford-Neosho-Cherokee League honors last year. Sophomore Jace McDown (5-10, 155) and junior Zane Roark (5-8, 170) return at the running back positions.

Senior A.J. Randle (6-2, 200) and junior Taylor Watkins (5-7, 160) will provide Bole some receiving options. While the skill positions should be strong, junior Kendal Hale (5-11, 175) is the only returning starter on the offensive line.

The defense will be led by McDown, who earned all-CNC honorable mention at linebacker. Senior Travis Hodgson (5-9, 175) and Randle will be on the defensive line. Justin Graham (6-0, 150), Garrett Brittan (5-11, 170) and Watkins join McDown at linebacker.

Sophomore Zack Roark (6-0, 155) returns at free safety.

“Every year, you lose athletes and must figure out how to be a unit,” Grundy said. “This group must learn to be disciplined and play together.

Finding the right leadership will be very important.”

4-5 in 2012 / 1-2 in district / 4A Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division IV Coach: Dirk Ankerholz (5th year, 20-18) Assistants: Tyler Hampton, Jim Frickey, Jeff Cornwell, Chuck Schrader, Eric Shipman Offense: Double Wing Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 13 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 5 Defense Johnny Becker, WR/CB, 6-0, 185; Joe Cordell, OL, 5-10, 235; Alex Smith, OL; Cameron Hilley, OL, 6-3, 240; Darrick Jones, OL, Jake Wright, WR/CB; Drew Terwort, LB; Devin Roth, LB, 6-1, 190; Cody Layton, LB Conor Nicholl

8-3 in 2012 / 3-0 in district / 4A Southeast Kansas League Coach: Murray Zogg (4th year, 18-13; 8th overall, 32-35) Assistants: Mark Andrews, Ford Hall, Jaryd McCullough, Mike O’Connor, Eric Flaton, Nate Teichgraber, Chris Jones Offense: Multiple I Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: 17 Returning starters: 8 offense, 10 defense James Newton, WR/FS, 5-10, 150, Sr.; Darron Deffebaugh, WR/CB, 6-3, 190, Sr.; Elijah Jones, TE/LB, 6-1, 175, Sr.; Hunter Wright, OL/DL, 6-1, 265, Sr.; Garrett Waun, OL, 6-3, 245, Sr.; Brad Stansbury, OL , 6-3, 245, Sr.; Tyler Cox, OL, 6-1, 285, Sr.; Nathan Finley, QB, 5-11, 175, Sr.; Jamal Logan, DL, 6-0, 205, Jr.; Nick Wintjen, LB, 5-11, 205, Jr.; Demarco Shoat, DL, 5-11, 220, Jr.; Hubert Thompson, LB, 6-0, 175, Sr.; Jon Brown, LB, 5-8, 155, Sr.; Justus Towery , CB, 5-8, 155, Sr. Mark Schremmer

CONCORDIA PANTHERS Concordia enjoyed its third straight eight-win season under Tim Lambert, but won its first playoff game under the fifth-year coach last fall, the program’s first playoff victory since 2005.

In 2009, Lambert led Concordia to the playoffs despite a two-win season. The Panthers lost 54-0 to Andale. In 2010, the Panthers lost 21-14 to Hesston. In 2011, Concordia again lost to Hesston, 19-16. Last year, Concordia defeated Abilene, 50-8, in the first round and lost to Buhler, 45-14. Lambert said the team’s goals are to win league and district; Concordia accomplished both last year.

The Panthers return just eight lettermen, three offensive starters and four on defense. Lambert said “fast development from new starters” is the key to success.

Junior Drake Hake is back after he paced the team with 133 carries for 1,100 yards and 11 scores. As well, junior fullback Nick Thomas is back after he rushed 150 times for 834 yards and 14 scores.

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2-7 in 2012 / 0-3 in district / 4A Greater West Activities Conference Coach: Chris Gardner (7th year, 24-30; 11th overall) Assistants: Matt Sims, Brad Wildeman, Ed Schmitt, Tom Wieland Offense: Spread Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: 19 Returning starters: 3 Offense, 4 Defense Andrew Taylor, RB/LB, Sr.; Adam Giersch, DB, Sr.; Austin Boehme, OL/DL, Sr.; Josh Matchell, WR/DB, Sr. Conor Nicholl

4-6 in 2012 / 2-1 in district / 4A Crawford-Neosho-Cherokee League Coach: Dan Grundy (5th year, 30-23) Assistants: Scott Quinly, Troy Haraughty, Heath Perry, Chris Endres Offense: Spread Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: 15 Returning starters: 6 offense, 6 defense Nate Bole, QB¸5-11, 160, Jr.; A.J. Randle, WR/DE, 6-2, 200, Sr.; Justin Graham, OLB, 6-0, 150, Sr.; Zack Roark, FS, 6-0, 155, So.; Taylor Watkins, HB/ILB, 5-7, 160, Jr.; Zane Roark, RB, 5-8, 170, Jr.; Jace McDown, RB/ILB, 5-10, 155, So.; Garrett Brittan, OLB, 5-11, 170, Jr.; Travis Hodgson, DL, 5-8, 175, Sr.; Kendal Hale, OL, 5-11, 175, Jr. Mark Schremmer

EUDORA CARDINALS

Bergmann and Brentin Hake, who combined for Veteran coach Kevin Kopecky takes over a 178 tackles and 29 tackles for loss.

Eudora program that has enjoyed back-to-back Class 4A runner-up showings to Rose Hill and 8-3 in 2012 / 3-0 in district / 4A Holton. He replaces Gregg Webb, who took the North Central Kansas League head job at Truman High School in IndepenCoach: Tim Lambert (5th year, 26-15; 20th overall, dence, Mo. Kopecky is 157-120 in 27 years as 155-51) a head coach and was the Leavenworth head Assistants: Michael Roe, Ken Meyer, Scott Coppoc, coach for the last three seasons. In 2011, he led Ryan Mortimer Leavenworth to the playoffs for the first time in Offense: Wishbone Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 8 32 years. He also coached 12 years at St. ThomReturning starters: 3 Offense, 4 Defense as Aquinas and earned Metro Sports Coach of Skyler Hittle, DE/OT, 6-2, 215, Sr; Drake Hake, RB/DB, the Year in 2008.

5-7, 165, Jr.; Shea Crum, RB/LB, 6-0, 185, Jr.; Zach Kyle, Eudora brings back the entire offensive line 5-7, 165, Jr. Conor Nicholl and all but one starting defensive lineman.

“We have some good football players on this team,” Kopecky said. “Due to the success in recent years, the players have a winning attitude.”

Senior quarterback Andrew Ballock returns after he collected first team all-league and all-state honors when he rushed 197 times for 407 W 6th • Concordia, KS • 785-234-4068 1,272 yards and 16 scores and completed 47 of 90 passes for 802 yards with eight TDs against www.cunninghamtelephoneandcable.com zero interceptions. He also collected 64 tackles

with eight interceptions for 198 return yards.

Right guard Blake Beerbower was honorable mention all-league and entering third year as a starter. Kopecky said junior lineman Justus Merz has Division I potential and a 36-inch vertical. Linemen Eric Rogers (first team allleague) and Justin Underwood (team captain), Skyler Manley (74 tackles) and cornerback J.T. Howell (HM all-league) all return.

12-2 in 2012 / 3-0 in district / 4A Frontier League Coach: Kevin Kopecky (1st year, 27th overall, 157-120) Assistants: Chris Durkin, Ty Pattison, Jace Stewart, Jason Tharp, Mark Elston Offense: No Huddle/Spread Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 12 Returning starters: 7 Offense, 6 Defense Mason Tomlinson, WR/CB, 5-11, 175, Sr.; Andrew Ballock, QB/FS, 6-3, 170, Sr.; Skyler Manley, C/DT, 5-9, 180, Jr.; Blake Beerbower, RG, 6-2, 190, Sr.; Justus Merz, RT/DE, 6-3, 245, Jr.; Eric Rogers, LG/DT, 5-9, 240, Sr.; Justin Underwood, LT, 6-0, 285, Sr.; J.T. Howell, CB, 5-6, 150, Sr. Conor Nicholl

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FORT SCOTT TIGERS

FRONTENAC RAIDERS

GARNETT-ANDERSON CO. BULLDOGS

GIRARD TROJANS

The Fort Scott Tigers rolled through the 2012 regular season with a 9-0 record and a Southeast Kansas League championship. Then the Tigers suffered injuries to key players and were eliminated in the first round of the Class 4A playoffs.

Fort Scott returns a good nucleus of talent to try to make another run. The Tigers return five starters on offense and eight on defense.

“We won’t change much as we continue to build on our success the last few seasons,” Fort Scott coach Bob Campbell said. “We want to contend for an SEK title, district title and advance in the playoffs.”

The offensive line will be anchored by senior Brendan Blackburn (6-2, 275), who has started 20 games. He earned all-state and all-SEK honors last year. Tight end Chris Allen and wide receiver Jash Pytlowany also earned all-league honors last year. Senior Zach Denton and junior Mason Knopp are possibilities at quarterback.

Fort Scott’s defense will be led by all-state and all-SEK linebacker Jacob Durossette, who posted 139 tackles last year. Blackburn and senior defensive end Garin Sinn will lead the defensive line.

Second-year head coach Mark Smith hopes to get the Frontenac Raiders program back to the days when it was a traditional power in the Crawford-Neosho-Cherokee League.

After a tough 0-3 start to the 2012 season, the Raiders won five straight under Smith and pushed CNC champion Girard in a 7-6 loss to end the regular season. Frontenac also advanced to the playoffs in the program’s first season at the Class 4A level. The five-win stretch started as the Raiders defeated rival St. Mary’s-Colgan for the first time since 1997.

So the Raiders have a lot of momentum heading into this season. However, they will try to keep that momentum going minus many of the key players from last season. All-league performers Kylor McCartney, Blake Barto, Bryan Wade, Devon Keith and Cody Lindbloom all graduated.

Frontneac returns four starters on offense with wide receiver Brett Macary, linemen Garret Tackkett and Zak Sampo, and running back Ethan Powell. Macary, who earned second-team all-CNC honors at linebacker last year, is the team’s lone returning starter on defense.

“We are going to have to improve our team strength and conditioning so that we can play a complete game on both sides of the football for four quarters,” Smith said. “The Frontenac Raiders will have a lot of new faces on the field in 2013, and we will be a different type of team than last year. We will have a lot of competition for starting positions this summer and throughout camp, and I believe this will make our team better overall.”

Don Hilliard has consistently kept Anderson County around the .500 mark in his tenure, but the Bulldogs have never won a playoff game in school history. From 2004-12, Anderson County has won five games once, six games four times and a 7-2 record in 2009. As well, Anderson County went 2-7 in 2005 and has two three-win years, including last season.

Opponents outscored Anderson County 276-203 and the Bulldogs went 1-4 at home last year. Anderson County was 3-3 entering districts, but lost 48-6 to Fort Scott, 70-12 to Chanute and 39-21 to Iola. This year, coach Hilliard would like to improve tackling on defense and be more consistent on offense. Cutting down on turnovers and finding replacements on the offensive line is key.

Anderson County lost in the first round in 2010, 42-20 to Louisburg, and 47-6 to Paola in 2011. Before then, the Bulldogs also lost in the first round in 2004, 34-30, to Eudora, and 40-0 to Louisburg in 2009.

Anderson County also lost to Louisburg, 42-8, in 1996, the only playoff appearance in the ‘90s. Those are the lone playoff appearances in school history.

“We have good skill positions returning and we will be able to make some things happen on offense,” Hilliard said. “We will be relying on sophomores to step up and fill some holes on the offensive/defensive line. More than anything else, we need to finish games and make plays when the situation dictates. In four of our six losses we were either ahead, tied, or within one score at halftime. In all of those losses, we had opportunities to make plays that are the difference between a win and a loss.”

After capturing the Crawford-Neosho-Cherokee League championship and advancing to the second round of the Class 4A playoffs in 2012, the Girard Trojans want to keep the success going.

“We want to build on the success we had in 2012,” Girard coach Leon Miller said. “We need to continue to work hard and play hard and build on the expectations we have for this program.

“Our underclassmen who have been waiting in the wings have to step up for us. Our seniors and juniors must lead by example. We must push each other to get better every day.”

The Trojans graduated some key players from last year’s CNC championship team, including three unanimous all-league players in running back Anthony Scholes, defensive lineman Jalen Merrell and linebacker Nate George.

However, Girard does return a nice nucleus with linemen Kevin Rowe and Devin Vail, quarterback and defensive back Brayden Johnson and running back Taylor Lewis back after earning all-league honors a year ago.

The Trojans do face a difficult schedule with their first three games against Caney Valley, Riverton and Columbus all on the road. On the flip side, Girard will get to play three of its final four games at Frank Jameson Field, including district games against Parsons and Frontenac.

Girard will look to rely on a strong running game and defense again in 2013. Last year, the Trojans pitched two shutouts and held opponents to two touchdowns or less in nine of 11 games.

9-1 in 2012 / 3-0 in district / 4A Southeast Kansas League Coach: Bob Campbell (18th year, 147-41) Assistants: Bo Graham, Larry Lawrence, Alvin Metcalf, Josh Regan, David Brown, Dustin Wiley Offense: Split-Back Veer Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 5 Offense, 8 Defense Brendan Blackburn, OL/DL, 6-2, 265, Sr.; Jacob Durossette, RB/LB, 5-7, 170, Sr.; Jash Pytlowany, WR/ DB, 5-9, 165, Sr.; Chris Allen, TE, 6-0, 185, Sr.; Grant Hill, OL, 5-9, 210, Sr.; Garin Sinn, DE, 6-3, 220, Sr.; Race Kastl, LB, 5-10, 160, Sr.; John Hughes, DB, 6-2, 175, Sr.; Zach Denton, DB, 5-9, 170, Sr.; Johnathan Allen, K/P, 5-8, 145, Sr. Mark Schremmer

5-5 in 2012 / 2-1 in district / 4A Crawford-Neosho-Cherokee League Coach: Mark Smith (2nd year, 5-5) Assistants: James Hartzfeld, Jason Lee, John Palumbo, Bill Sullivan Offense: Multiple Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 4 Offense, 1 Defense Brett Macary, WR/LB, 6-0, 190, Sr.; Garret Tackkett, OT, 6-0, 210, Sr.; Ethan Powell, RB, 6-0, 190, Sr.; Zak Sampo, OL, 5-10, 250, Jr. Mark Schremmer

3-6 in 2012 / 0-3 in district / 4A Pioneer League Coach: Don Hilliard (14th year) Assistants: Marty Alley, Eric Sayler, Tim Bremerman, Brad Huber Offense: Option Defense: Multiple Front Returning lettermen: 13 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 7 Defense Zach Hilliard, RB/DB, 5-10, 170, Sr.; Ryan Alley, WR/DB, 6-0, 155, Sr.; Eric Small, WR/DB, 5-10, 160, Sr.; Wyatt Hulett, OL/LB, 6-0, 200, Sr.; Dallas Cox, OL/LB, 6-0, 170, Sr.; Lee Koch, RB/LB, 5-10, 190, Sr. Conor Nicholl

GOODLAND COWBOYS After back-to-back playoff appearances, Goodland moved back to Class 4A, had a twowin decrease and dropped back to 3-6 last fall.

The Cowboys missed the playoffs with a 21-12 district loss to Clay Center and a 34-24 district defeat to Concordia. Defeating either one of those two teams would have likely brought a postseason berth. This year, the Cowboys bring back nine starters on both sides of the ball, including the coach’s son, sophomore quarterback Trey Teeter. He completed 69 of 154 passes for 957 yards with nine TDs against 12 interceptions. Senior Dax Ruhs is back after he paced the squad with 159 carries for 1,044 yards and seven scores. The top three receivers also return with senior Taylen Smith (19 catches, 275 yards, two TDs), Ruhs (13-217-6) and Gage Ihrig (14-154-0).

Tyler Gastineau and John Peden are back after they finished with 75 and 70 tackles, respectively, and led the Cowboys. Goodland forced 23 turnovers, a solid number, but committed 17.

Opponents outscored the Cowboys 225-163

HESSTON SWATHERS

and Goodland went 1-4 at home and 2-3 on the road.

The Cowboys last won in the playoffs when it reached the Class 4A quarterfinals in 2004.

Former Cherokee-Southeast coach Clint Rider has taken over a Hesston program that has ranked among the top Class 4A programs for the last several seasons. Rider replaced Marc Marinelli, who moved on to Goddard-Eisen3-6 in 2012 / 1-2 in district / 3A hower. Rider went 1-8 and 6-3 in two seasons Greater West Activities Conference with Coach: Kent Teeter (5th year, 21-24; 13th overall, 62-55) Cherokee-Southeast, a program that has strugAssistants: Donald Raymer, Dev Mull, Joe Sramek, gled for many years.

Mike Ruhs Hesston lost 57-26 to eventual state champion Offense: Spread Defense: 10-1 Holton in the first round of the playoffs last Returning lettermen: 24 Returning starters: 9 Offense, 9 Defense year. The Swathers played in 14 playoff games Colton Cooper, OL, Sr; Connor Simpson, OL, Sr.; Zach in the 2000s, including a sub-state berth in 2003 Miller, OL, Sr.; Tyler Gastineau, WR, Sr.; Gage Ihrig, WR, and a quarterfinal run in 2005.

Sr.; Taylen Smith, WR, Sr.; Garrett Taylor, WR, Sr.; Dax Rider has set goals to compete for a league Ruhs, RB, Sr.; Trey Teeter, QB, So.; Colton Cooper, DL, championship and win a playoff game. More Sr.; Connor Simpson, DL, Sr.; Taylen Smith, DL, Sr.; than anything, Rider said the team’s biggest Garrett Taylor, LB, Sr.; Zach Miller, LB, Sr.; Dax Ruhs, responsibility is to represent the Hesston DB, Sr.; Gage Ihrig, DB, Sr.; Kolt Trachsel, DB, So. Conor Nicholl community and Swather football program with “class and integrity.” Rider said the team’s keys will be adjusting to new schemes, playing disciplined, as a team, be in great physical condition and have “the

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9-2 in 2012 / 3-0 in district / 4A Crawford-Neosho-Cherokee League Coach: Leon Miller (6th year, 25-22; 25th overall) Assistants: Craig Siebert, Mark McFarland, Jeremiah Hudson, Brian Walod Offense: Wishbone Defense: 50 Returning lettermen: 18 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 5 Defense Caleb Egbert, DB, Sr.; Brayden Johnson, QB/DB, Sr.; Taylor Lewis, TB/DB, Sr.; Kevin Rowe, C/DT, Sr.; Devin Vail, OG/DE, Sr. Mark Schremmer

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internal will to compete at a high level.”

“Our goal is to compete to the best of our ability each and every week and have a chance to win each game in the fourth quarter,” Rider said.

“It will be important for us to value every possession, limit penalties, and win the turnover battle each week.”

5-5 in 2012/2-1 in district/4A Central Kansas League Coach: Clint Rider (1st year, 3rd overall, 7-11) Assistant: Doug Broadfoot, Philip Unruh Offense: Pistol Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 20 Returning starters: 8 Offense, 7 Defense Wyatt McKinney, QB, 6-6, 210, Sr.; Grant Raleigh, WR/ DB, 6-0, 160, Jr.; Tyler McCartney, WR/DB, 6-1, 180, Jr.; Justin Smith, WR/DB, 6-0, 150, Jr.; Ryan Schadler, RB/DB, 5-11, 180, Sr.; Chase Brown, OL, 6-0, 180, Jr.; Christian Graber, OL/LB, 5-9, 170, Jr.; Devon Wagner, OL, 6-1, 250, Jr.; Merek Barber, LB, 5-11, 180, Sr.; Keith Crittenden, DB, 5-10, 155, Sr. Conor Nicholl

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Holton delivered a 14-0 record and outscored opponents 624-138 in what coach Brooks Barta called the “best modern statistical defense” in 2012. Holton has now won state titles in 2003, ’05 and ’12 and earned runner-up in ’98, ’99 and ’10. Barta currently has 12 graduates playing college football, including last year’s quarterback/defensive back, Jaxon Wright, now at Pittsburg State, and Trent Tanking, the KPreps.com Class 4A Defensive Player of the Year, who walked-on at Kansas State. Tanking led the Wildcats with 155 tackles and nine tackles for loss.

Barta said three people are in contention to replace Wright, a two-year starter. Drake Ewing returns at one running back spot after he led Holton with 159 carries for 1,317 yards and 17 scores. Holton did graduate its second through fifth-leading rushers, including Cameron Karn, who had 181 carries for 1,269 yards and 16 scores.

Barta said the team will “expect to see a lot of rotating offensive and defensive linemen.”

Barta said juniors Indie Allen (5-11, 180) and Louis Butto (5-10, 160) “are also promising backs with speed.” Senior Andrew Rieschick, the leading returning tackler with 93 stops, is likely to play fullback this year.

“Holton will have to improve quickly in the offensive and defensive back ends as well on special teams,” Barta said. “Hopefully the offensive and defensive front can carry some of the weight early in the season.”

Royal Valley has had a win decrease in the last three years, going from 7-2, 5-4 and 3-6. The Panthers haven’t had a playoff appearance since a 6-4 record in ‘06 and haven’t won a postseason contest since a 5-6 mark in 2005. This year, senior quarterback Austin Hodison returns after he led the team with 254 passing yards and 508 rushing yards. At running back, Matthew Bailey started the last two games at tailback. Zach Rottinghaus and Chris Chapman will move from the backfield and will likely start at tight end.

Senior Josh Tessendorf enters his third year as a starter and will anchor the line after he earned honorable mention all-league and all-county on defense. At the defensive line, senior Gary Smith is back after he was honorable mention all-league and all county. He paced the team with 11 tackles for loss and five sacks.

The defensive backs return three of the four starters. Rottinghaus returns to man his starting middle linebacker position after he led the team with 101 tackles and eight tackles for loss in just seven games.

Coach Jason Grider called last year “disappointing,” but likes the returning experience from last year with eight offensive starters and seven on defense from a team that was 2-5 in league play and played in a difficult district that included state powers Hayden (47-14 loss) and Holton (55-6 defeat).

“With that said, experience should be a strength for the veteran Panthers,” Grider said.

After missing the playoffs in 2011, Hugoton made the playoffs last year despite a losing record and lost 52-13 to Andale in the first round.

Hugoton earned the playoff spot because of a 21-20 Week 7 victory against Pratt. The Eagles, coached by eight year veteran Clint Merritt, bring back 16 seniors. His goal is to “improve every day.”

Senior quarterback Yates Sutton returns after he completed 39 of 83 passes for 614 yards with a 3/6 TD/INT ratio and paced the team with 166 carries for 815 yards and 10 scores.

Junior running back Michael Baeza is back after he caught 12 passes for 259 yards and three scores. Senior Bradley Campbell is back after he paced the team with 155 tackles, 48 more than any other player. Sutton also led the team with three interceptions, and Baeza contributed seven pass breakups. Hugoton was minus-6 in turnover margin and Sutton fumbled 13 times (seven lost).

“Their leadership in the weight room must pay dividends for us this fall,” Merritt said. “We need to be more consistent in all phases of the game this year. Offensively, that means taking care of the football and finishing drives.”

In 2010, the Independence Bulldogs were 9-2 and advanced to the second round of the Class 4A playoffs. Just two seasons ago, they finished 5-4. Now coming off a 1-8 finish in 2012, the Bulldogs look to end the slide.

“We need to improve daily,” Independence coach Carl Boldra said. “We need to give it all up for each other. We need to buy in to what we are doing as a team.”

The Bulldogs enter this season with a little momentum. Independence ended last season with a 57-28 victory over Parsons after losing the first eight games. Independence averaged 31 points over the final three games after scoring only 28 points combined in the first six.

Plus, the Bulldogs return many of the pieces that showed improvement over last season. Independence returns nine starters on each side of the ball. Courtlan Hayes is back at running back and defensive back after earning All-Southeast Kansas League second-team honors at both positions last year. Lineman Clay Sears also earned second-team honors on both sides of the ball. Offensive lineman Evan Speicher, defensive lineman Cody Sears and linebacker Alex Wright return after earning all-league honorable mention.

Special teams also should be a strength with Hayes returning kicks, and Sears back as the punter.

14-0 in 2012 / 3-0 in district / 4A Coach: Brooks Barta (18th year, 173-30) Assistants: Joe Purcell, Mark Middlemist, Alex Bartel, Brian Meerpohl, Matt Hundley Offense: Wishbone Defense: Odd Front Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: Dalton Beightel, OL, 5-10, 235, Sr.; Bradley Hooper, OL, 5-11, 260, Sr.; Jake Reiderer, OL, 6-3, 275, Sr.; Cooper Zeller, OL, 6-2, 295, Sr.; Kyle Mick, OL, 5-10, 175, Sr.; Andrew Aeschliman, 6-2, 210, Sr.; Dylan Wheeler, DE, 6-2, 190, Sr.; Ethan Holaday, DB, 5-9, 160, Sr.; Andrew Rieschick, RB/LB, 5-10, 175, Jr. Conor Nicholl

3-6 in 2012 / 1-2 in district / 4A Big 7 League Coach: Jason Grider (8th year, 32-31; 13th year overall) Assistants: Dave Barta. Russell Hodison, Nate McAlister, Jesse Kutina Offense: N/A Defense: N/A Returning lettermen: 10 Returning starters: 8 Offense, 7 Defense Gary Smith, DT, 6-2, 230, Sr.; Josh Tessendorf, OL/ DE, 6-2, 250, Sr.; Zach Rottinghaus, TE/LB, 6-3, 210, Sr.; Chase Eck, LB, 6-0, 210, Sr.; Rory Lange, DB, 5-9, 175, Sr.; Austin Hodison, QB/DB, 6-1, 180, Sr.; Chris Chapman, TE/DB, 5-9, 180, Sr.; Miles Winter, OL, 6-3, 210, Sr.; Tristan Tessendorf, OL, 6-3, 190, Jr.; Nehemiah Schuetz, FB, 6-0, 210, Jr.; Matthew Bailey, TB, 6-0, 175, Jr. Conor Nicholl

IOLA MUSTANGS Iola enjoyed a four-win improvement under new coach Doug Kerr and collected a Pioneer League title in its first year in the league last season. Kerr ran the single wing in 2012 and looks to incorporate more option this fall with senior quarterback Tyler Macintosh, an impressive runner who saw limited QB action last year. Kerr wants to defend the league title and make a run in the state playoffs.

“On defense we must continue to get stronger to stop all the power running games we go against on our schedule,” Kerr said.

Iola returned two starters on both sides of the ball last season, outscored opponents 230-223 and missed the playoffs because of blowout district losses to Chanute (42-0) and Fort Scott (34-7). The Mustangs had five wins within 22 points and three by 12 or fewer. Since 2003, only a 7-3 record in 2008 ranked better than last year. Iola has now improved from 0-9 to 2-7 to 6-3 in the last three seasons.

Running back Jacob Rhoads returns after he led the team with 102 carries for 487 yards and tied for second with two rushing TDs. Slotback Adam Kauth is back after he caught 21 passes for 360 yards and two scores, while Rhoads was second with 15 catches for 153 yards. Rhoads also led the team with 72 tackles, while junior linebacker Kaden Macha recorded a team-high five rushing TDs and collected 68 tackles, five for loss.

Senior defensive lineman Bryce Misenhelter

4-6 in 2012 / 1-2 in district / 4A Greater West Activities Conference Coach: Clint Merritt (8th year, 31-36; 11th overall, 43-52) Assistants: Brian Campbell, Todd Fulton, Lance Cornelsen, Mike Miller, Craig Szymczak Offense: Flexbone Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 20 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 8 Defense Yates Sutton, QB/DB, 6-1, 180, Sr.; Ross Davis, RB/DB, 6-2, 180, Sr.; Reid Davis, FB/DE, 6-2, 190, Sr.; Michael Baeza, RB/DB, 5-8, 150, Jr.; Logan Frederick, WR/LB, 5-10, 170, Sr.; Mitchell Persinger, WR/DE, 6-1, 175, Sr.; Cordell Barnes, FB/LB, 5-11, 200, Sr.; Bradley Campbell, OL/LB, 5-10, 200, Sr.; Luis Sanchez, OL, 6-2, 250; Andrew Mendoza, 5-9, 220, DL Conor Nicholl

1-8 in 2012 / 1-2 in district / 4A Southeast Kansas League Coach: Carl Boldra (9th year, 30-47) Assistants: Al Speicher, Dave Harlin, Luke Claar, John Mangan, Bo Watters Offense: Pro I Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: 38 Returning starters: 9 offense, 9 defense Clay Sears, OL/DL, Sr.; Cody Sears, TE/DL; Courtlan Hayes, RB/DB, Sr.; Evan Speicher, OL/DL; Chris Jones, RB/LB; Jon Melton WR/DB; Chase Berry, QB; Tommie Johnson, C; Chase Null, OL; Jordan Mead, OLB; Alex Wright, OLB; Marquise Johnson, DB Mark Schremmer

KC-BISHOP WARD CYCLONES

paced Iola with nine tackles for loss. Kauth and Rhoads led the team with two interceptions apiece.

This fall, Iola will return to a helmet look the Mustangs had in the ‘80s with a yellow football and a blue I on the inside of the ball. Iola made the Class 4A semifinals in 1982 and won a playoff game in ’83, the only playoff wins in school annals.

Tim Dorian took the job at his alma mater after coaching for many years in Kansas City.

Before he coached at Ward, Dorian led K.C. Schlagle into a solid program in three years, including a 7-2 record in his last year. Last year, Ward finished with a winless season and will enter 2013 with a 27-game losing streak. The Cyclones have been 0-9 each of the last three years after a 6-3 season in 2009. From 2004-09, Ward went 4-5, 5-5, 5-6, 5-5, 6-4 and 6-3.

6-3 in 2012/1-2 in district/4A Ward improved offensively as the season proPioneer League gressed in 2012. It scored zero points in its first Coach: Doug Kerr (2nd year, 7th overall, 24-44) two games, seven points in next two games, Assistants: Brad Carson, Dana Daugherty, Cody Hager, then 16-21-12-14-6 to end the season. Two of Kim Robertson the contests were within 14 points.

Offense: Single Wing Defense: 3-6 Dorian said the 2013 squad “should be solid” Returning lettermen: 18 Returning starters: 7 Offense, 6 Defense with plenty of experience. Seventeen players Jessie Zimmerman, TE, Sr.; Derrick Weir, G, Sr.; Quinton return with starting experience.

Morrison, G, Sr.; Alex Bauer, T, Jr.; John Whitworth, RB/ Staying healthy is key. Ward lost five running DB, Sr.; Jacob Rhoads, RB/DB, Sr.; Adam Kauth, SB/ LB, Sr.; Eric Maxwell, DL, Sr.; Bryce Misenhelter, DL, Sr.; backs to injury last season.

“Our number one goal is to compete and finish Kaden Macha, LB, Jr. Conor Nicholl games,” Dorian said.

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0-9 in 2012 / 0-3 in district / 4A Kaw Valley League Coach: Tim Dorian (2nd year, 0-9; 5th overall, 15-22) Assistants: TJ Dorian, Kam Ridley, Richard Williams, Mike Aleksaites Offense: I-formation Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 22 Returning starters: 8 Offense, 8 Defense Bryan Barnhart, QB/S, 5-10, 167, Jr.; Andrew Ramirez, OL/DL, 6-4, 265, Jr.; Nick Golubski, OL/DL, 6-1, 184, Sr.; Jeremy Butner, OL/DL, 6-0, 340, Sr.; Jared Paulakavich, WR/DB, 5-11, 168, Jr.; Trevor McClanahan, WR/TB/ CB, 5-11, 171, Sr.; Brent Ludtke, OL/DL, 5-10, 230, Sr.; Charles Kump, TE/DE, 6-2, 187, So.; Tyler Burns, TE/DE, 6-0, 206, Sr.; Connor Burns, TB/LB, 6-2, 182, Sr.; Josh Slupski, FB/LB, 6-0, 191, Sr.; Xavier Tucker, WR/S, 6-4, 167, Sr.; Marquis Wheeler, WR/DB, 5-7, 151, Jr.; Tony Clark, OL/DL, 6-4, 290, Sr.; Dillon Degroot, WR/TB, 5-11, 174, Sr.; Nick Wilson, LB, 6-0, 187, Sr.; Gabe Wilson, OL/ DL, 6-2, 237, Sr. Conor Nicholl

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Piper enjoyed a three-win improvement last year and advanced to the Class 4A semifinals.

This year, Piper again returns quarterback Tanner Eikenbary and tight end/linebacker Colton Beebe, who has been a Division I prospect for over a year. Eikenbary has thrown for more than 2,700 yards with 33 total TDs (31 pass) with a 17-7 record. Coach Chris Brindle calls him “a great QB prospect.”

The Pirates had six receivers with more than 170 receiving yards in 2011 and five receivers with more than 100 in 2012.

Piper lost 21-7 to Eudora in the sub-state championship, the first time in school history the Pirates advanced to sub-state.

Beebe has led the team in tackles in each of his first two high school seasons. Offensively, Brindle plans to continue to get Beebe the ball often in sets similar to the way the New England Patriots use their tight ends. Beebe has run in the 4.6-4.8 range in the 40-yard dash, according to several recruiting servives.

In 2011, he rushed 60 times for 264 yards and two scores, caught 11 passes for 173 yards and three TDs and collected 99 tackles with an interception, two forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries.

Last year, he rushed 95 times for 554 yards with three TDs, caught nine passes for 119 yards and a score, picked up 104 tackles with 3.5 sacks, one interception, two forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries. He was KCK Prep’s Defensive Player of the Year and went to the Midwest Top Prospect Camp and won linebacker MVP. Piper returns its second, fourth and fifth leading rushers. ““Our young men have created a culture of winning. We have a very tough schedule again, but we feel like we have a chance to advance in the playoffs again in 2013,” Brindle said.

Todd Wassman had built the top program in the Kansas City-Atchison League for several years. From 2007-10, the team made four straight playoff appearances and went 7-3, 6-4 and 10-2 from ’08-’10.

However, the Sabres have dropped back to 2-7 in each of the last two years.

Last season, Sumner started out 0-5, including two losses by a combined seven points. A 14-12 Week 1 loss to Immaculata was in a driving rainstorm. Sumner controlled the fourth quarter, but couldn’t push across the go-ahead points.

The Sabres had a 4th-and-10 from the Imac 27-yard line late in the game, but Sumner QB Brandon Williams was sacked.

The Sabres tallied 80 combined points in the first five games. Sumner defeated Harmon 49-14 in Week 6 and Bishop Ward, 26-12, in Week 7.

However, Sumner fell 48-13 to K.C. Piper in Week 8 and missed a playoff berth with a 42-18 loss to Atchison in Week 9. Opponents outscored Sumner 294-186. In 2011, opponents outscored Sumner 278-142. Wassman’s goals are to restore the tradition and improve.

“We would like to get back to winning league titles like we once did and improve on the 2 and 7 season from last year,” he said. “We’re going to have to run the ball with success and play good defense. We aren’t as high powered in the passing game as we once were.”

Prairie View has four 5-4 seasons in the last six years with a 1-8 record in 2009 and a 4-5 mark in 2011. The Buffs, which did win the Class 3A state championship in 1970, haven’t made the playoffs since a 3-7 record in 2005 where it lost 49-28 to Baldwin.

It made the three playoffs three times in the ‘90s and lost in the first round in ’93, ’97 and ’98. Before then, the Buffs’ only playoff appearance in the ‘80s was a first round playoff loss in 1980.

It made three playoff appearances in the ’70s, but the lone playoff victories in school history came in 1970 with a 36-12 victory versus Atchison County and a 26-12 win against Stockton.

Last year, the Buffs played the No. 59 strength of schedule out of 64 Class 4A teams and opponents outscored them 254-231. The Buffs went 1-2 in district play and lost 56-0 to Louisburg and 49-8 to Paola before it ended the season with a 40-35 victory against Osawatomie.

Before districts, the Buffs started with a 40-20 loss to Ottawa, a 40-18 win against Anderson County, a 50-16 win against Wellsville, a 27-16 loss to Iola, a 20-13 win versus Labette County and a 37-0 victory against Central Heights.

This year, Prairie View returns three offensive and four defensive starters. All but one of the returning starters are juniors.

One of the best, under-the-radar coaching jobs of last season came from first-year Larned coach A.B. Stokes. Larned was winless in 2010 and 2011, but stopped the losing skid with a 3-0 start to the season that featured a 27-25 victory against Ellsworth, a 29-14 win versus Ellinwood and a 31-21 victory against Thomas More Prep-Marian. After a 36-0 loss to Ellis, Larned lost just 20-19 to Cimarron. Then, it lost four straight by at least 36 points to close the year. Larned hasn’t made a state playoff appearance since its lost in the second round to Norton in 1985. The Indians also lost in the first round in 1982, before it made state appearances in 1971, ’72 and ’77.

Senior quarterback Easton Palmer returns for a team that played the easiest schedule in the 64-team Class 4A last season, according to preppowerindex.com. Larned scored 140 points and allowed 352 – the previous year it scored 165 and allowed 484. Coach Stokes said the team goals are to “to compete and get better every week,” and said the team’s keys to success are “playing hard, fast and together.”

10-3 in 2012 / 3-0 in district / 4A Kaw Valley League Coach: Chris Brindle (3rd year, 17-7, 159-111 overall) Assistants: Larry Beashore, Brian Gray, Curtis Hamilton, Tm Cottrell, Steve Wallace Offense: Pistol Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: Tanner Eikenbary, QB, 6-2, 188, Sr.; Colton Beebe, WB/ ILB, 6-3, 245, Jr. Conor Nicholl

2-7 in 2012 / 1-2 in district / 4A Kansas City-Atchison League Coach: Todd Wassman (9th year, 41-40) Assistants: Andrew Wright, Justin Richmond, Richard Gliechman Offense: Spread Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 4 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 4 Defense John Perez, LB, Sr.; Greg Page, LB, Sr.; Andre Faison, RB/FS, Sr.; Brian Cob Bins, RB, Jr.; Sean Rainy, RB/ OLB, Sr. Conor Nicholl

5-4 in 2012 / 1-2 in district / 4A Pioneer League Coach: Doug Whitcraft (3rd year, 14-13) Assistants: Jeff Byerly, Todd Wollard Offense: Option Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: 12 Returning starters: 3 Offense, 4 Defense Blake Barnes, RB/OLB, 6-1, 205, Jr.; Levi Clark, WR/ DB, 6-1, 185, Sr.; Cordell Dunlop, RB/OLB, 6-0, 185, Jr.; Sam Engert, RB/LB, 5-8, 175, Jr.; Will Holland, OL/LB, 5-8, 165, Jr. Conor Nicholl

MAIZE SOUTH MAVERICKS

Maize South has continued to make progress in its four years of existence. The Mavericks have gone 2-6, 4-6, 5-5 and 9-2 in its history and won the first playoff game last year when it upset Topeka Hayden, 14-7, in the first round.

On the game’s final play, Hayden quarterback Jacob Tetuan threw to the end zone, and two Maize South defenders broke up the pass.

Earlier in the game, Hayden had first down at Smoky Valley senior quarterback Ethan Loder ed by 20 points or fewer, including a 2-1 record the Mavericks’ six-yard line, but Maize South had a goal line stand at the 1-yard line. Maize is one of Kansas’ top returning quarterbacks af- in games decided by eight points or fewer.

South also fumbled to start the second half, ter he completed 72 of 158 passes for 965 yards but then recovered Hayden’s fumble on the 5-4 in 2012 / 1-2 in district / 4A and 13 scores and also rushed for 820 yards. very next play. Hayden held a 132-78 edge in Central Kansas League Smoky Valley should have plenty of speed in Coach: Chris Hattabaugh (5th year, 14-22) rushing yards, and a 156-116 advantage in passthe backfield with Loder and senior running Assistants: James Henderson, Bill Nelson, John Bellah, ing yards, but Maize South made enough big back Mason Weiss, an all-league selection.

Fred VanRanken, Michael Ferguson plays to win. South which outscored opponents Senior Spencer Bird is a two-time all league Offense: Spread Option Defense: 4-3 311-103, finished No. 1 in Class 4A in scoring selection at linebacker.

Returning lettermen: 19 defense and went 5-0 to win the ACVTL Returning starters: 7 Offense, 6 Defense Coach Chris Hattabaugh, in his 11th year at Division II title.

Spencer Bird, OL/DL, 5-10, 180, Sr.; Ethan Loder, QB, the school and entering fifth as head coach, “We will continue to build leadership and a 6-3, 190, Sr.; Cody Hopkins, OL, 6-0, 210, Sr.; Mason hasn’t enjoyed a playoff appearance since a Weiss, RB/DB, 5-8, 155, Sr.; Blake Mitchell, OL, 6-0, family atmosphere within the program,” coach second round showing in 2007.

200, Sr.; Jarod DeMott, WR/DE/K, 6-1, 225, Jr.; Christian Brent Pfeifer said. “We have a solid core of reSmoky Valley also lost in the first round in Hansen, WR/CB, 5-8, 150, Sr.; Alec Schneider, WR, 6-2, turning defensive players, including many that 2001,’02, ’04 and ’06. Smoky Valley had the 180, Sr.; Stephen Klaasen, DL, 6-3, 260, Jr.; Greg Elvin, were fortunate to play significant minutes last second-best record at 5-4 in Class 4A, District LB, 6-0, 190, Jr.; Cole Norberg, FS, 6-2, 170, Jr. Conor Nicholl year in several games. Having some experience 15, but took fourth in districts. McPherson won on the field should help us pick up our practice the district at 3-0 and Abilene, Chapman and the tempo and hopefully improve our overall game Vikings tied at 1-2. speed. We will need some young players to deAbilene, though, earned the spot with minus-2 velop quickly on our offensive side of the ball. points, while Chapman defeated Smoky Valley We were fortunate to have some very tough for third place. and fast players last season and we will need to All but a 42-13 loss to McPherson were decid-

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3-6 in 2012 / 0-3 in district / 4A Mid Central Activities Association Coach: A.B. Stokes (2nd year, 3-6) Assistants: Austin Kingsbury, Quinton Burgess, Tad Remy, Matt Barton, CT Taylor Offense: Multiple I Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: 20 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Easton Palmer, QB, 6-0, 180, Sr.; Jamil Shoemaker, RB/WR, 5-9, 185, Sr.; Brayden Smith, WR, 5-11, 165, Sr.; Grant Unruh, WR, 5-10, 160, Sr.; Damian Garcia, OL, 5-11, 277, Sr.; Jeraime Kramer, OL, 5-10, 200, Jr.; Jeromy Bartz, LB, 5-8, 190, Jr.; Ty O’Neil, LB, 5-10, 205, Jr.; Kaiden Reed, DL, 6-1, 255, Sr.; Seth Hutchins, DL, 6-3, 210, Sr.; Gage Stude, CB, 5-8, 160, Jr.; Tyler Stetler, FS, 5-10, 170 Conor Nicholl

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work together to build and find replacements for them.”

Center Mitch Butterfield returns after he was first team all-league and collected Class 4A allstate honors. Senior DeSean Washington was first team all-league and an honorable mention all-state defensive back. Senior Josh Lewis was an honorable mention all-state selection and senior defensive tackle Ty Zorn was first team all-league.

Junior kicker Andy Galliher was second team all-league.

9-2 in 2012 / 3-0 in district / 4A Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division II Coach: Brent Pfeifer (5th year, 20-19) Assistants: Steve Rasmussen, Tom O’Connor, Kip Schultz, Brent Randolph, Rick Craig, Layne Carter Offense: Flex Bone Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 4 Offense, 7 Defense Chase Bell, QB, 6-4, 175, Sr.; Anthony Vitale, OT, 6-4, 250, Sr.; Mitch Butterfield, C, 6-0, 260, Sr.; Keeman Garcia, OT, 6-1, 230, Sr.; DeMarcus “Trey” Garrett, DT, 6-0, 230, Sr.; Ty Zorn, DT, 5-10, 215, Sr.; Josh Lewis, OLB, 6-0, 220, Sr.; DeSean Washington, CB, 5-10, 170, Sr.; Mac Evans, CB, 5-8, 155, Sr.; Jeremiah Fettke, S, 6-4, 180, Jr.; Kale Bullock, S, 5-10, 160, Jr.; Andy Galliher, K, 5-10, 155, Jr. Conor Nicholl

Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

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MULVANE WILDCATS

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McPherson has enjoyed several elite quarterbacks under coach Tom Young, one of the top coaches in Kansas history. The list includes Tyler Matthews, now at TCU, and now Kyler Kinnamon, who was second team all-league and honorable mention all-state by several media outlets as a sophomore. As well, senior lineman Garrett Larson was a second team all-league pick, and senior Collin Harvey was a first team all-league defensive back selection.

Kinnamon accounted for 3,016 total yards, including 2,191 passing (20 passing TDs) and 565 rushing (6.3 yards per carry) and also caught 10 passes for 260 yards. Larson led the team with five tackles for loss, and Harvey ranked fourth on the squad in tackles and also had nine pass breakups and two interceptions. Ty Hart, as a part time starter at linebacker, had 46 tackles.

Young said the team’s strength is speed at the skill positions. Defensively, Young said the team is smaller, but “much faster” at most positions.

Young, who has won at least seven games in the past six seasons and at least nine in four of those years, said inexperience is the biggest weakness.

McPherson opens the season with four of the first five games on the road, including traveling to Hays High and Buhler.

Mulvane enjoyed a trip to the Class 4A semifinals last year after it defeated Rose Hill, 37-14, beat Maize South, 7-0, and defeated Buhler for the second time in the year, 15-0. It eventually fell 28-6 to state champion Holton and finished No. 4 in Class 4A. This year, Mulvane will have to find replacements for 10 graduating seniors from a defense that outscored opponents 392-189 and played the No. 3-hardest schedule in Class 4A. Quarterback Ty Redington also graduated after he completed 193 of 326 passes for 2,727 yards and a 26/14 TD/INT. He also finished second with 135 carries for 617 yards and nine scores.

Mulvane does return Michael Mason, who rushed 146 times for 884 yards and 11 scores.

In the last nine years, Mulvane has won at least seven games four times and finished with double-digit victories twice, including an 11-1 season in 2007. Last year tied the school record for the deepest advancement in the playoffs since a Class 4A sub-state trip in 1985.

“Finding replacements for 10 graduating seniors from a very good defense will be major focal point in camp and through early season,” coach Dave Fennewald said. “ Offensively finding a replacement for Ty Redington at QB, offensively we will go as far as our offensive line takes us.”

The Paola Panthers entered the 2012 season with an inexperienced team that returned only one starter on offense and three on defense from the year before. Paola’s inexperience led to a 1-3 start.

However, Paola showed rapid improvement as the season progressed, finishing 4-2 down the stretch and advancing to the Class 4A playoffs.

Now, the Panthers enter 2013 with an experienced squad that is looking to build off last year’s late-season success.

All-State offensive lineman Joe Pomatto is lost to graduation, but Paola returns eight starters on each side of the ball.

Ten players headline the Panthers’ list of 26 returning lettermen. Among those players are quarterback and defensive back Drew Henn, running back and defensive back Mitch Sloan, fullback and linebacker Corey Stallbaumer, running back and defensive back Jeremy Criddle and running back and linebacker Jake Robison.

The Panthers should boast good blocking up front with linemen Elijah Short, Trey Taylor, Kevin Benton, Avery Boehm and Derek Weaver, as well as tight end Brennan Haley.

Defensively, Paola kept opponents to two touchdowns or fewer in five of its final six games of 2012.

10-2 in 2012 / 3-0 in district / 4A Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division III Coach: Tom Young (8th year, 59-17, 43rd overall, 330-103) Assistants: N/A Offense: I/Spread Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: 24 Returning starters: 3 Offense, 4 Defense Collin Harvey, CB, 5-11, 170, Sr.; Garret Larson, OT/ DT, 6-3, 265, Sr.; Devon Ronsee, LB, 6-2, 205, Sr.; Andy Zeitlow, G, 6-0, 210, Sr.; Kyler Kinnamon, QB, 5-11, 180, Jr.; Ty Hart, LB, 6-3, 215, Jr. Conor Nicholl

11-2 in 2012 / 3-0 in district / 4A Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division III Coach: Dave Fennewald (22nd year, 114-90; 26th overall, 141-104) Assistants: Scott Swaney, Daniel Myears, Steve Nelson, Randy Fox, Dustin Rhodes, Scott Young Offense: Gun Read Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: 15 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 1 Defense Shane Sullivan, S, 5-8, 165, Sr.; Isaiah Evans, OT, 6-3, 260, Sr.; Logan Adams, OG, 5-11, 200, Sr.; Michael Mason, RB, 6-1, 200, Sr.; Austin Bell, WR, 5-9, 160, Sr.; Collin Dempsey, WR, 6-1, 165, Sr.; Brent Martin, OG, 5-7, 235, Jr. Conor Nicholl

Coach Rob Hedrick, in his seventh year at the school, takes over as head coach this fall. He wants to contend for the Frontier League title, win district and “see what happens in the playoffs.” Last year, Ottawa went 1-3 at home, 2-3 on the road and finished 3-6, tied for the most wins since a 4-5 season in 2004. Opponents outscored the Cyclones 232-138. Ottawa hasn’t made the playoffs since 2003 and the lone postseason victory since 1971 was a 30-6 first round win against Clay Center in 2000. Since ’71, Ottawa is 1-5 in the playoffs.

Hedrick said the keys will be developing depth, staying healthy and having limited turnovers. Ottawa went 0-9 from 2006-08 and then has gone 1-8, 3-6, 2-7 and 3-6 since.

Last year the Cyclones were competitive in many games. After a 40-20 victory against Prairie View in Week 1, the Cyclones lost to DeSoto (14-0), Louisburg (21-14), St. James Academy (35-18) and Paola (24-0). Then, Ottawa defeated Spring Hill, 30-25, before it suffered big losses to 4A powers Baldwin and Eudora and ended the season with a 20-8 victory against Santa Fe Trail.

Ottawa does bring back Kord Ferguson, the Gatorade Track Athlete of the Year, who threw 199-1 in the discus and 63-6 in the shot put and ranked ninth among all prep competitors. He won the Class 4A state titles in both events. The 6-foot-6, 225-pound Ferguson is a returning starter on the offensive and defensive line.

PARSONS VIKINGS Just two years ago, the Parsons Vikings finished 7-3 and advanced to the Class 4A playoffs.

However, graduation hit the Vikings hard, and the young Parsons squad experienced its growing pains in 2012.

Parsons finished the season winless and lost every game by more than four touchdowns.

“Any time you go winless, it makes it hard to find very many high points,” Parsons coach David Pitts said. “But with that said, as a staff we were very pleased to see our young kids improve week to week. I thought they gained confidence and became more competitive as the season went on. I challenged the kids to compete at a higher and more physical level. They showed improvement as the season went on.”

The Vikings return some experience with seven starters on each side of the ball. Fullback Chris Ponce and wingbacks Steve McDonald, Logan Dickinson, Sam Vratil and Noah Taylor will try to provide some offensive punch to a team that was held to a touchdown or less in its

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Dickinson earned all-league honors as a kicker in 2012.

3-6 in 2012 / 1-2 in district / 4A Frontier League Coach: Rob Hedrick (1st year) Assistants: Pat Boeh, Evan Shaffer, Blake Lasley, Shawn Walters, Don Brown Offense: Power Iso Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 15 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 6 Defense Kord Ferguson, OL/DL, 6-6, 225, Sr.; Cory Peoples, OL/ LB, 6-3, 240, Sr.; Andre Lewis, WR/DB, 6-2, 170, Jr.; Zachary Dillard, WR/DB, 5-11, 165, Sr.; Cole Reed, OL/ LB, 5-10, 180, Jr.; Jace Roth, OL/DL, 5-10, 240, Jr.; Derec Crosley, OL/DL, 5-9, 170, Jr. Conor Nicholl

5-5 in 2012/ 3-0 in district/ 4A Frontier League Coach: Mike Dumpert (15th year, 122-51) Assistants: Todd Weaver, Mike Smith, David Kane, Ryan Oshel, Seve Gorsuch Offense: Flexbone Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: 26 Returning starters: 8 offense, 8 defense Drew Henn, QB/CB, 6-1, 170; Mitch Sloan, RB/S, 6-1, 175; Corey Stallbaumer, FB/LB, 5-10, 180; Jeremy Criddle, RB/CB, 5-9, 170; Brennan Haley, TE/LB, 6-1, 205; Elijah Short, OL/DL, 6-2, 270; Trey Taylor, OL/LB, 6-0, 180; Kevin Benton, OL/DL, 6-0, 230; Avery Boehm OL/DL, 6-1, 200; Jake Robison, RB/LB, 6-2, 170; Derek Weaver, OL/DL, 6-2, 170 Mark Schremmer

PERRY-LECOMPTON KAWS

From 2005-07, coach Mike Paramore built Perry-Lecompton into a consistent winner with 8-2, 6-3 and 8-2 records. In 2008, the Kaws broke through and finished as Class 4A state 0-9 in 2012 / 0-3 in district / 4A runner-up with a 10-4 mark. Since then, P-L Southeast Kansas League has mixed winning and losing seasons with Coach: David Pitts (3rd year, 7-12; 5th year overall, 2-7, 6-4, 7-3 and 3-6 records. Of the Kaws’ 13-26) Assistants: Dennis Dodd, Mark Pound, LaShawn Taylor, six losses, five came by 15 points or fewer and three were within a score. P-L scored more than Eddie Benavides 20 points just twice all fall.

Offense: Double Wing Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: 14 This year, the Kaws return fullback R.J. Returning starters: 7 Offense, 7 Defense Whitaker, who started since he was a sophChris Ponce, FB, 5-7, 175, Sr.; Steve McDonald, WB, omore and finished with 541 yards and five 6-2, 180, Sr.; Ross Benavides, OL, 6-2, 200, Sr.; Logan scores. Brandon Eddy took over the tailback Dickinson, WB, 5-11, 165, Sr.; Sam Vratil, WB, 5-7, 150, duties full-time in Week 6 and had 613 yards Jr.; Anthony Morton, OL, 5-11, 160, Jr.; Noah Taylor, and seven scores. Seth Surface played well as a WB, 5-11, 180, Jr.; Carlos Bernal, CB, 5-8, 145, Jr.; Matt sophomore quarterback when he completed 92 Thande, 5-7, 150, Jr.; Isaiah Taylor, OLB, 6-3, 170, Jr.; Keenan Dodd, 6-0, 205, So.; Sydney Shaw, DL, 5-11, of 175 passes for 1,133 yards and nine scores.

180, So.; Donte Gress, OLB, 6-0, 175, So.; Connor Kelly, However, Surface will have a brand new wideLB, 5-10, 180, Jr. out set to throw to after the Kaws graduated all Mark Schremmer of their top receivers. On the offensive line, P-L returns two starters and two more players who saw significant playing time.

“Looking to step in will be Tyler Ball, Reed Mitchell who both saw varsity action,” Paramore said. “Caleb Daniels, Cody Williams and Mitchell Bond will push for playing time.

Quinten Sledd and Nick Passmore will compete for the TE spot.”

Defensively, Whitaker was honorable mention all-league after he led the team with 57 tackles and tied for first with five tackles for loss.

3-6 in 2012 / 1-2 in district / 4A Big Seven League Coach: Mike Paramore (13th year, 114-108) Assistants: Mark Armstrong, Thomas Cooprider, Justin Smith and Jared Swafford Offense: Multiple I Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: 14 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 5 Defense Brendon Neal, OL/DL, 6-2, 285, Sr.; R.J. Whitaker, FB/ LB, 5-9, 190, Sr.; Brandon Eddy, TB/OLB/SS, 6-2, 190, Sr.; Jason Wulfkuhle, OL/DL, 6-2, 290, Sr.; Seth Surface, QB, 6-1, 170, Jr.; Tyler Ball, DB, 5-9, 165, Sr. Conor Nicholl

Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

Page 38

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PRATT GREENBACKS

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TOWANDA-CIRCLE THUNDERBIRDS

Jamie Cruce, the former head coach at Bethany College, takes over a Pratt program that has consistently been middle of the pack in Class 4A for awhile. Since 2005, here are the Greenbacks’ records: 5-5, 4-5, 6-4, 5-4, 5-5, 4-6 and 4-5. Pratt lost in the first round of the playoffs in 2011, 2010, 2008 and 2006 after it made the second round round from ’03-’05. Then, Pratt lost in the first round in 2000. Pratt won the Class 4A title in 1995 and reached the sub-state title game in 1998. Cruce’s goal is to “improve each day and reach our full potential as players, students and people.”

“Our keys to success will be how hard we work in the summer to prepare for the upcoming season,” Cruce said. “We need to physically improve and mentally grasp the schemes we are installing.”

Pratt will stay in the spread offense under Cruce, who led Bethany to an 8-3 record in 2011. The Swedes, expected to compete for a conference championship last season, slipped back to 4-7 in 2012. Cruce, a 1998 Bethany graduate, returned to the school in 2001 as defensive coordinator. Then, he became head coach in 2007.

Pratt did graduate Skylar Dean, who passed for 1,138 yards and rushed for 640 yards, both team-highs. Senior Shawn Ramos is back after he caught 48 passes for 477 yards, both teamhighs, and two TDs.

Coach Al Troyer had struggled for four years at Larned, a program that has long had difficulty winning. Troyer, though, has found some success with Tonganoxie, another team that has struggled. Last year, the Chieftains went 5-6, won the district, and defeated Atchison in the first round of the playoffs, 35-28, for the first postseason win since 2005.

The year started strongly with a 22-20 Week 1 against Lansing. Previously, Tonganoxie had won just two conference games in the last two seasons, both against Bishop Ward. It marked the first time the Chieftains had defeated Lansing since 2006. That started a 4-0 record in games decided by seven points or fewer. The season ended with a 31-10 loss to Eudora and opponents outscored the Chieftains 320-150 for the year. This fall, Troyer would like the team to play “at a higher level” than last year, have a balanced run/pass offense and be more aggressive on defense. Last year’s team averaged 103 passing and 165 rushing yards a game and returns its top two playmakers in senior quarterback Tyler Ford (88 of 174 for 1,071 yards with a 5/11 TD/INT) and senior running back Cole Holloway (254 carries, 1,271 yards and 10 scores).

Hayden was ranked No. 1 in Class 4A in the preseason KPreps.com poll, but had a very rare down season and finished 4-6 with a 14-7 first round playoff loss to Maize South, the program’s first playoff win. Hayden had multiple chances to tie or take the lead in the fourth quarter, but couldn’t convert. Hayden outgained Maize South 311-225.

It marked Hayden’s first losing season since a 4-5 record in 1996. The Wildcats have made the postseason every fall since a 7-2 record in 2001, according to the Topeka Capital-Journal’s prep database. Under coach Bill Arnold, Hayden won 10, 13, 9, 10 and 11 games before the slip back last year. The Wildcats finished 3-2 at home and 1-4 on the road and started 1-4 with four close losses in Week 1 to Seaman (16-0), Week 2 against Topeka (30-15), Week 4 to Junction City (14-13) and Week 5 to Emporia (36-35) all 5A/6A squads. Hayden eventually finished as district runner-up to Holton, the Class 4A undefeated state champion.

Arnold said the keys will be to “stay away from the injury bug and the blending in our upperclassmen with our seniors.”

“Looking forward to an exciting league as well as getting into the playoffs,” Arnold said.

The Thunderbirds had a one-win decrease from 2011 and lost its final eight games after a 31-14 win against Augusta in Week 1. Towanda-Circle also lost 35-34 to El Dorado in Week 8. This year, coach Bob Pool would like his team to be competitive and improve each day.

“Willingness to take personal responsibility in their daily effort,” Pool said of the team’s keys.

Opponents outscored the Thunderbirds 388147 last year. This year, the Thunderbirds return five offensive and five defensive starters. Three of the players are seniors and three are juniors.

Last year, Circle had two players share time at quarterback with freshman Kaden Fowler and sophomore Garrett Hutson that averaged 130 passing yards a game and had a 11/11 TD/INT ratio. The Thunderbirds averaged 114 rushing yards a contest.

The Thunderbirds made the playoffs in 2010 and ’11, but lost to Topeka Hayden in both years by a combined score of 106-10. Circle also made the playoffs in 2001, ’03 and ’06, but lost in the first round each time. The Thunderbirds also lost in the first round in 1993. Before then, the last appearance came in 1980, when it made the Class 4A semifinals. That is the only time Circle has won a playoff game.

5-6 in 2012 / 2-1 in district / 4A Kaw Valley League Coach: Al Troyer (2nd year, 5-6; 5th overall) Assistants: Matt Bond, Preston Troyer, David Hillmon, Jesse Leigh, Scott Peavey 4-5 in 2012 / 1-2 in district / 4A Offense: Spread Defense: 4-3 Central Kansas League Returning lettermen: 26 Coach: Jamie Cruce (1st year, 7th overall, 28-34) Returning starters: 8 Offense, 9 Defense Assistants: Tyler Strong, Steve Landry, Jason Gallagher, Cole Holloway, RB/DB, 5-7, 145, Sr.; Shane Levy, RB/ Bob Smith, Todd Cossman LB, 5-10, 210, Sr.; Zeke Kissinger, C/DL, 6-0, 260, Sr.; Offense: Multiple Spread Defense: 3-4 Cody Snyder, OL/DL, 6-6, 270, Sr.; James Grizzle, OL/ Returning lettermen: 21 DE, 6-1, 250, Sr.; Clayton Neas, DE, 6-1, 240, Sr.; Tyler Returning starters: 6 Offense, 4 Defense Ford, QB, 6-0, 170, Sr.; Ben Johnson, WR/DB, 6-3, 185, Shawn Ramos, WR, 5-10, 160, Sr.; Ryan Landry, WR, Sr.; Wyatt Weeks, TE/LB, 5-10, 180, Sr.; Eric Tate, WR/ 5-10, 150, Sr.; Bryson Cruz, OL, 5-11, 230, Sr.; Brett For- DB/K, 6-0, 165, Sr.; Chase Sample, OL, 6-2, 255, Sr.; shee, OL, 5-10, 250, Sr.; Taylor White, OL, 5-9, 175, Sr.; Shawn Ridihalgh, OL, 5-10, 250, Sr.; Jared Sommers, Matt Loomis, OL, 5-11, 170, Jr.; Drew Dobbs, DB, 5-10, RE/DB, 6-0, 175, Jr. 160, Sr.; Shawn Ramos, DB, 5-10, 160, Sr.; Cesar RegalConor Nicholl ado, LB, 5-3, 135, Sr.; Bryson Cruz, LB, 5-11, 230, Sr. Conor Nicholl

4-6 in 2012 / 2-1 in district / 4A Centennial League Coach: Bill Arnold (7th year, 57-18; 113-35) Assistants: Greg Nilgas, Toby Cowdin Offense: Wing T Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: 28 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 4 Defense Zach Smith, RB, 5-9, 175, Sr.; Ben Leone, OL, 6-2, 240, Sr.; J.C. Menke, RB, 5-11, 185, Sr.; Jake Kresin, WR, 6-0, 175, Sr.; Xavi Ramos, DL, 6-1, 260, Sr.; Derrick McGreevey, LB, 6-1, 185, Jr.; Blaine Wells, LB, 6-2, 190, Sr.; Quinton Smith, DB, 6-1, 175, Sr. Conor Nicholl

1-8 in 2012 / 0-3 in district / 4A Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division IV Coach: Bob Pool (3rd year, 3-16; 6th overall, 22-31) Assistants: Craig Brown, Todd Chrisman, John Richmond, Cameron Sell, Jeff Slane Offense: Spread Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: 18 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 5 Defense Paul Richard, WR/S, 6-3, 180, Sr.; Jake Smith, WR/S, 5-9, 160, Sr.; Ridge Walker, OL/LB, 5-11, 190, Sr.; Garrett Hutson, QB, 5-11, 180, Jr.; Justin Wright, RB/LB, 6-1, 190, Jr.; Logan Scott, DL, 5-10, 230, Jr. Conor Nicholl

WAMEGO RED RAIDERS

Wamego went 5-0 in North Central Kansas League play and won its first outright football conference championship since 1981 with a 3512 victory against Clay Center. Wamego shared the title in ’96, ’97, ’01 and ’07. Wamego has now been in the league 42 years and won/shared Ulysses had a four-win decrease in 2012, but and play aggressive defense,” Kenny said. seven conference titles. No other current NCKL still made the playoffs under coach Jason Ken“We would like to win our league and district team has fewer than 10 league titles, according ny, who has averaged 8.2 wins per season in his and make a deep run in the playoffs. We must to ncklpreps.com. Wamego ended a three-year 13 years with the Tigers. Sophomore running survive our tough schedule and improve each run by Abilene. Wamego had been undefeated back Ian Rudzik had one of the top seasons by a week. We must improve our pass defense and in league play with a 5-0 mark in 1975 and ’77. freshman in the nation last year when he rushed control the line of scrimmage.”

The Red Raiders lost 14 seniors, and had five 165 times for 1,187 yards and 15 scores. He had players recruited to play college football.

6-4 in 2012 / 3-0 in district / 4A nearly three times as many yards as any other Wamego, though, finished 0-3 in district play Greater West Activities Conference Tiger. He finished ninth nationally and tops with a 51-12 loss to Holton, a 26-18 loss to Coach: Jason Kenny (14th year, 107-40) in Kansas for rushing yards among freshman.

Assistants: Rocky Meyer, Jack Wolf, Kyle Shryock, Royal Valley and a 48-28 defeat to Hayden.

According to Rivals.com, Rudzik has already Robert Bledsoe This season, third-year coach Dale Burkholder ran a 4.6 40-yard dash and has received some Offense: Wing T Defense: 5-3 returns 11 seniors and a “strong junior class.”

NCAA Division I interest.

Returning lettermen: 16 Burkholder said the biggest key is finding a Returning starters: 4 Offense, 6 Defense Ulysses, which ended the season with a 28-7 replacement for 6-foot-4 quarterback Marshall A.J. Erives, OT, 6-1, 245, Sr.; Chase Rudzik, G/MLB, loss to Buhler in the first round of the Class Wethington. Three players are in competition 5-11, 220, Sr.; Nathan Medina, TE, 6-3, 200, Sr.; Ian 4A playoffs, outscored opponents 305-194 and Rudzik, RB, 6-2, 215, So.; Avery Nichols, DB, 5-10, 170, for the spot with senior Jared Ayres, junior finished 19th in the 64-team class in scoring Sr.; Riley Seger, OLB, 5-10, 190, Sr.; Hecto Torres, DT, Kyler Alderson, and sophomore Landis Rowdefense, according to preppowerindex.com.

5-9, 205, Jr.; Otto Orosco, DT, 5-11, 210, Sr. den. Burkholder calls senior linebacker Logan “We want to control the line of scrimmage Conor Nicholl Stoddard the “heart” of the defense, a first team all-league player who had 96 tackles last year and 70 as a sophomore.

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5-4 in 2012 / 0-3 in district / 4A North Central Kansas League Coach: Dale Burkholder (3rd year, 6-12) Assistants: John Scoggins, Curtis Eckart, Nick Johnson, Shane Neel, Travis Graber Offense: Spread Defense: 4-4-3 Returning lettermen: 18 Returning starters: 7 Offense, 10 Defense Logan Stoddard, RB/LB, 6-0, 225, Sr.; John TenEych, WR/DB, 6-0, 155, Sr.; Trenton York, WR/DB, 5-8, 155, Sr.; Kameron Quinn, RB, 5-8, 150, Sr.; Austin Winter, OL, 6-0, 245, Sr.; Levi Nelson, OL, 5-9, 185, Sr.; Dylan Besthorn, OL, 5-9, 190, Jr.; Kyler Anderson, DB, 6-0, 180, Jr.; Brian McCarty, LB, 5-10, 180, Sr.; Jeff Brazzle, LB, 5-8, 180, Sr.; Trey Cohorst, LB, 6-0, 180, Jr.; Colton Hitch, LB, 6-1, 210, Jr.; Eli Miller, DL, 6-4, 230, Jr.; Matt Roudybush, DL, 6-0, 210, Sr. Conor Nicholl

WICHITA-TRINITY ACAD. KNIGHTS Since 2004, Wichita Trinity has won at least three games in every year, won at least four in all but one and collected three winning records.

However, the Knights have never made the playoffs in school history.

This fall, second-year coach Jared McDaniel said the team goals are development of offensive and defensive lines and being able to physically finish games. Last year, the Knights started 2-0, but then took a 28-14 loss to Cheney followed by big defeats to Garden Plain and Conway Springs. After a 42-14 win against Douglass, the Knights lost to Wichita Collegiate, 28-17, in the first district game, defeated Augusta 42-21 and then lost to Rose Hill, 42-0. In the Collegiate contest, Trinity had more first downs (17 to 15), fewer penalty yards (35 to 76) and a big edge in time of possession (30:06 to 17:54). However, Collegiate scored on a kickoff return and a halfback pass and Trinity lost a TD when a penalty nullified a score.

Junior Matt Jones returns at quarterback after he completed 100 of 172 passes for 1,339 yards with a 5/9 TD/INT ratio. Running back Tyler Burns is one of the state’s top juniors after he rushed 145 times for 1,459 yards (10.1 yards per carry) and 23 scores. As well, he caught 22 passes for 229 yards and two TDs and led the team with 1,981 all-purpose yards.

4-5 in 2012 / 1-2 in district / 3A Central Plains League Coach: Jared McDaniel (2nd year, 4-5; 4th overall, 8-19) Assistants: James Jost, Brad Burns, James Smith, Todd Peterson Offense: Spread Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 10 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 7 Defense Alex Ast, LB, 5-11, 205, Sr.; Erik Hansen, DL, 6-2, 215, Sr.; Matt Jones, QB, 5-11, 210, Jr.; Matt Harkness, WR, 5-10, 170, Jr.; Tyler Burns, RB, 5-11, 205, Jr.; Josh Osborne, S, 6-0, 200, So.; Caleb Hoyt, CB, 5-10, 185, So.; Jack Troutman, LB, 5-11, 200, So. Conor Nicholl

Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

Page 39

Congratulations to the Scott City Beavers 2012 Class 3A

STATE CHAMPIONS!

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Lincoln County, Kansas

Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

Page 40

Class 3A ■ By John Baetz

overview

for nearly 3,000 total yards (1,872 pass, 1,082 rush) and 46 total touchdowns in 2012.

After several seasons of near misses, the Scott City Beavers were able to bust through with a thrilling 28-21 comeback victory over perennial east representative Silver Lake in one of the most exciting 3A state championship games in recent memory. Coach Glenn O’Neil cemented his legendary status posting the teams first football title in more than 20 years and leading the basketball team to their third consecutive 3A title as well.

If the Beavers are able to repeat their success on the gridiron this fall they’ll have to do it with mostly a new cast of characters. Top offensive weapons Brett O’Neil (QB), Dalton Buehler (RB), and Drew Kite (TE) are lost to graduation. Brett’s brother Trey will move from wideout to quarterback and the Beavers will need to replace most of the offensive and defensive lines and linebackers.

Jeff Werner’s Sedgwick team appears to be on the verge of

something special KPREPS.COM PRESEASON RANKINGS and his Spread No There are three certainties in life: Huddle offense has 1. Silver Lake death, taxes, and the Silver Lake produced prolific 2. Beloit Eagles representing the east side quarterbacks in 3. Scott City of the state in the 3A title game. each of the past 4. Garden Plain The Eagles have made the trip to three seasons. Last 5. Sedgwick the 3A title game in 10 of the last 11 season actually saw seasons. Coach CJ Hamilton is the the development of Others: Caney Valley, Conway Springs, Hiawatha, Holcomb, Pittsburg-St. Marys Colgan, Sacred Heart state’s all-time winningest coach two outstanding QBs with 357 victories in 37 seasons as sophomore Brylie and has won seven state titles with Ware started the first also tallied 21 touchdowns out of 17 championship game appearancfive games of the season and threw the offensive backfield. es in his career. for over 1,000 yards before a knee Werner calls the development of Last year the Eagles appeared to injury, and senior Logan Thompson the interior lines the key to continhave Scott City on the ropes after stepped in and earned a Shrine ued success for the Cardinals. jumping out to a 21-0 lead, but Bowl trip with nearly 1,000 yards “The development of the offensive Scott City pulled the improbable passing of his own. Thompson also line and defensive line will be key,” comeback and handed the Eagles added nearly 1,300 yards rushing Werner wrote on his preseason their eighth defeat in their last 10 and 461 yards receiving while questionnaire. title game appearances. playing wideout prior to the switch Greg Koenig has built a perenThis year the Eagles are again the to dual-threat QB. nial power behind two unusual favorite on the east side, and all of Thompson is gone on to college, schemes - the Double Wing class 3A, with 10 total starters and but Ware is back to pick up where offense, and the 10-1 defense.

22 lettermen returning. Like many he left off prior to the injury, and He says the kids in Beloit buy into of the greatest teams in Silver Lake while he’ll be working behind a the “aggressive” schemes and it history, this year’s Eagle squad nearly new group of offensive linehas given them an identity on both will again be led by a Kruger at men he will have 1,700 yard rusher sides of the ball. Koenig and his quarterback. Versatile senior Dailin Dalton Brandt back in the backfield. staff even wear coaching attire with Kruger returns after accounting Brandt, an all-league linebacker, the Double Wing formation embroidered into the back.

“The combination of our unique offensive and defensive styles have In addition to the players featured on the cover and inside back cover, these players are just a few of the best to keep an eye on in Class 3A this fall. helped us, and we have just been blessed with a lot of great kids Ethan Balestracci...........6-0, 215, Sr, FB/LB, Garden Plain and a lot of outstanding assistant Connor Bigham..............6-3, 180, Sr, WR/DB, Hiawatha coaches as well,” Koenig said.

If the Trojans are to make another Tymony Bonilla..............5-11, 165, Sr, K, Sacred Heart deep run into the playoffs they Josh Brazzle....................5-8, 190, Jr, FB/LB, Riley County will need to find a number of new offensive and defensive linemen, Ty Clark............................6-0, 182, Sr, RB, Cimarron but veteran starters Payton Vetter BRIAN SCOTT NICK WUTHNOW 6-2, 150, SR, WR, MAUR HILL 5-10, 175, SR, QB/LB, SACRED HEART Austin Commons............6-1, 190, Jr, LB, St. Mary’s Colgan (4-year starter at QB), Bowe Behymer (RB/LB), Tanner Niemczyk Dawson DeShazo...........6-2, 195, Sr, WR, Silver Lake (RB/DB), and Bryce Black (OL/DL) will lead the way for a host of young Tanner Niemczyk...........5-10, 160, Sr, RB/DB, Beloit talent.

Trey O’Neil.......................6-2, 175, Jr, QB/DB, Scott City Garden Plain, Conway Springs, and Pitt.-Colgan should turn in their Jacob Pengra..................6-2, 285, Sr, OL/DL, Southeast of Saline usual playoff qualifying season and Marshall Swearinger.....6-5, 240, Sr, OL/DL, Hiawatha if a few key youngsters emerge could challenge for the title, while DALTON BRANDT DAILIN KRUGER Heath Tucker..................6-3, 185, Sr, WR/DB, Holcomb 5-9, 180, SR, RB, SEDGWICK 5-9, 165, SR, QB, SILVER LAKE Caney Valley, Hiawatha, and SaBrylie Ware.....................5-11, 195, Jr, QB, Sedgwick cred Heart could have the talent to make a deep run of their own.

Levi Wyrick......................6-4, 225, Jr, DE, Caney Valley

Kansas Pregame

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Courtesy photo

Photo by Marion McReynolds

File photo

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COACH SMITH / Continued from page 41

afterwards. Not for me, but for my players.”

Mark Smith went on to direct Frontenac to a 5-5 record and a trip to the Class 4A playoffs in his first season.

“I think he’s real proud to be the coach there,” Chuck Smith said. “He’s a true leader, and he’ll do a great job for them. I’m just glad that we have good people like him in the profession.”

However, it will take Mark quite a while to get near his dad’s win total. Chuck Smith is one of only six coaches in Kansas to earn 300 victories and one of only five to do so with one school.

And it doesn’t appear that he plans on quitting anytime soon.

“You never know, but I still enjoy coaching,” Smith said. “I’m pleased with the attitude of all the kids. Just watching the kids, gets me excited for football. I’m excited about the upcoming season.”

Colgan athletics director and assistant football coach Kyle Wolf said Smith still has the fire

needed to be successful.

“As long as he has the passion to coach kids and football, he will,” Wolf said. “Right now, that passion remains very strong. He still has great energy to go out with the kids. He feeds off the kids’ energy.”

Smith directed Colgan to an 8-4 record and to the third round of the playoffs in the Panthers’ first season at the Class 3A level.

Wolf said that Smith has a tremendous ability of relating to his players.

“I think the No. 1 think I’ve watched and learned from Coach Smith is how he develops relationships with his players and the people around him,” Wolf said. “He has the ability to make people feel special. It’s not fake. It’s absolutely genuine. Coach Smith makes sure you know that you’re important. You feel good and confident when you’re around him. That’s why his players will run through a brick wall for him.”

NEWELL / Continued from page 42

Newell said he doesn’t believe he’d be as successful if he hadn’t dedicated himself to getting stronger.

“It’s probably one of the most important parts about the game of football,” he said. “I started lifting weights in the sixth grade. In seventh grade, I was going to varsity weights at 6 a.m.

It was hard on me. My dad pushed me a lot, but it definitely helped. Weightlifting is probably why I’m at where I’m at.”

His dedication has rubbed off on his teammates.

“There are a lot of guys who have finally found the weightroom, because he’s dragging them there,” Diller said. “It’s really paying off.”

The 280-pounder, who runs a 4.8 40-yard dash, also doubles as a tight end and is even used as a wide receiver in some spread situations. He has started on both sides of the ball since he was a sophomore.

“He’s kind of a hybrid,” Diller said. “We use him as a wide receiver in some sets, and it’s pretty comical to see a guy his size out on the edge. But he has the ability for us to change sets and stay with the same personnel.”

Earning Kpreps.com All-Class 3A defensive line honors as a junior, Newell helped the Redhawks to an 8-3 record and the second round of the playoffs. Hiawatha was eliminated by eventual 3A runner-up Silver Lake.

Newell has helped the Redhawks reach the playoffs in each of the past two seasons.

However, he’s hoping Hiawatha can have even more success for his senior year.

“We have very high expectations,” he said. “I don’t want to have any regrets going into college.

I want to go to college with a lot of steam behind my back. I want to be the best I can be. I’m excited for this season. You can expect a lot of great things coming out of this season.”

Brought to you by this Crawford County attraction:

■ By Mark Schremmer For Kansas Pregame

When Chuck Smith left his head coaching position at Topeka-Hayden High School to come to St. Mary’s-Colgan in 1980, he hoped to be in Pittsburg for about 10 years.

Instead, Chuck Smith and his family found a permanent home in the southeast Kansas town. Smith is set to coach his 34th season at Colgan this fall.

In his time with the Panthers, Smith has compiled one of the best coaching resumes in the state. He enters this season with 308 wins at Colgan and 311 wins overall.

He has directed Colgan to five Class 2-1A state championships (1984, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003) and 11 state championship appearances. Those accolades include four consecutive state championships and 66 consecutive wins, which was a state record at the time. The run also included seven consecutive appearances in the state title game.

Smith passes the credit on to the players and the program that already was established by previous head coach Frank Crespino, who won two state championships in his tenure from 1961-79.

“When I came to Colgan, the kids didn’t talk about winning the district or the league,” Smith said. “They talked about winning state. Part of the success has always been the great attitude from the players. I guarantee it wasn’t me getting them going.

They were the ones getting me going.”

Smith has coached numerous standouts over the years. Running back Putzer Dayton, who went to play football at Arkansas State, helped lead the Panthers to the championship in 1984. P.J. Forbes, the quarterback on that 1984 team, went on to play in Major League Baseball for the Baltimore Orioles and the Philadelphia Phillies.

Jamie Goodson, Pat McNally, Joe Taylor, Eric Clawson, Caleb Farabi and Zac Dickey are among a long line of Panthers who went on to excel at NCAA Division II’s Pittsburg State University, where Smith played college football.

His oldest son, Nick Smith, led Colgan at quarterback to the first of four consecutive state titles in 2000. Mark Smith was the starting quarterback of the next three state championship teams. Soon after, younger brothers, Jeff Smith and Chas Smith, took snaps under center for the Panthers.

All four brothers earned All-State honors, played in the Kansas Shrine Bowl and went on to play football for the Pittsburg State Gorillas.

“Really, it was a good thing,” Smith said of coaching his four sons. “When each one stepped up into the program, they had a little bit more pressure. They all handled it real well. It’s just been a tremendous family thing.”

Mark Smith went on to become an All-American quarterback at Pittsburg State and took his first head coaching job at Colgan’s longtime rival, Frontenac, last season.

Father and son butted heads last season on statewide television. Mark’s Raiders defeated his father’s Panthers 26-25 in overtime to earn his first victory as a head coach.

“It was a great high school setting,” Chuck Smith said. “It was great for both schools. It kind of brought back those old Colgan-Frontenac games.

It was a really well played game. I felt crushed

COACH SMITH / Continued on page 40

All cover feature photos by Carla Wehmeyer, for Kansas Pregame

Downtown Pittsburg

The recently completed Downtown Streetscape Project welcomes visitors with new streets, new sidewalks, new street lights, new trash receptacles and new benches along Broadway in Downtown Pittsburg.

With over 80 stores and storefronts to enjoy, there is something for every member of the family.

Downtown Pittsburg also has a vibrant nightlife offering a variety of social opportunities.

Brought to you by this Crawford County attraction:

■ By Mark Schremmer For Kansas Pregame

One play is all it took for Hiawatha coach Chris Diller to realize Peyton Newell was a special player.

Diller said he doesn’t even remember exactly who the Redhawks were playing that night, but he can still recall the play from Newell’s sophomore season vividly.

“He was playing defensive end,” Diller recalled. “He tackled the dive back on the fake, then turned ran parallel and brought down the quarterback. I thought, ‘how’d he do that?’

“During his sophomore season, you could see that he could make plays typical guys can’t make. I could definitely see why people were recruiting him. He cut the field in half on defense.”

It didn’t take long for the word to get out about the 6-foot-3, 280-pounder from Hiawatha.

College programs view Newell as a prized defensive tackle prospect.

Newell has received all-state honors and, according to Rivals.com, has received NCAA Division I scholarship offers from Georgia, Kansas, Kansas State, Nebraska, South Carolina, USC, Arizona, Arizona State, Arkansas, Baylor, BYU, California, Clemson, Colorado, Duke, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Iowa State, Michigan State, Missouri, North Carolina State, Northwestern, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Penn State, Purdue, Syracuse, TCU, Tulsa, UCLA, Vanderbilt, West Virginia and Wisconsin.

In June, he narrowed his choices to Kansas, Kansas State, Nebraska, Georgia, South Carolina and USC. He later trimmed the list down to four, eliminating Georgia and USC. Newell is expected to make a decision among those six schools on August 30.

The recruiting attention surrounding Newell may be unprecedented for a Kansas Class 3A football player. Newell said that on one day Michigan State, South Carolina, Kansas, Nebraska and Michigan all sent representatives to see him at Hiawatha High School. Rivals lists Newell as the No. 4 recruit in Kansas behind 6A stars Braden Smith, Deandre Goolsby and Traevohn Wrench.

“It’s definitely been very hectic,” Newell said.

“It’s also very humbling to be in the situation that I’m in.

“I’m ready to get the process done. It’s been a long four years of calls and letters and stuff like that. I’m ready to get it done. I want to focus on bettering myself and my teammates and not be focusing on that. So I want to have the process over with before the season starts.”

Diller said that Newell has handled the situation well.

“He hasn’t let all the attention go to his head,” Diller said. “He hasn’t changed who he is through the whole thing. He’s really been grounded through the whole process. We had two or three coaches trying to come in every day. It got pretty hectic at times, but he never got overwhelmed by it.”

Diller said he’s viewed the attention as positive for Newell and Hiawatha High School.

“For the program, this is our first big-time recruit,” he said. “So I’ve been learning to deal with it, too. It’s been a fun process. It’s helped our program for exposure. Coaches always have their eyes open for other players. It will help recruiting for other guys from Hiawatha, because we’re on the map now.”

Newell hasn’t put Hiawatha on the map through natural ability alone.

He is known for working hard in the weightroom, maxing out at 400 pounds in the bench press and 700 pounds in the squat.

“He came in relatively strong for a freshman, but he wasn’t the strongest on the team,” Diller said. “His numbers now are pretty ridiculous. That all has come from the time he’s put in. When he’s in the weightroom, he’s all business. He’s naturally big, but that will get you only so far. He’s worked very hard.”

NEWELL / Continued on page 40

Chicken Restaurants

Crawford County has been known for its friend chicken restaurants since the early 1930’s. The county is home to six locally owned and operated restaurants all with a rich and unique history. This group of restaurants has been featured on the Travel Channel’s Food Wars, as well as being named one of the 8 wonders of Kansas Cuisine. You can’t come to Crawford County without stopping to eat some fried chicken! www. visitcrawfordcounty.com/ chicken

All cover feature photos by Carla Wehmeyer, for Kansas Pregame

Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

Page 43

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Last year, Chaparral lost 84-56 to Class 3A power Conway Springs in a game where Tanner Wood set the Kansas record with 659 rushing yards, the third-highest single game total in prep history. Ironically, Chaparral QB Zack Duwe also set the state single game passing record in the contest with 521 yards. The Roadrunners also lost 60-36 to Wichita Trinity, 61-58 to Wichita Independent, 43-15 to Cheney and 4917 to Garden Plain.

Still, the Roadrunners qualified for the state playoffs for the second time in three years and the fourth time since 1989. The season ended with a 70-31 loss to Sedgwick in the first round of the playoffs.

This year, coach Justin Burke said the team’s strengths are a good mix of returning players with competition of quality young athletes and the return of some solid linemen. Conner Dickey enters his fourth year as a defensive starter and is expected to have a big year after he led the team in tackles. Transfer Chip Wannamaker is expected to contribute in the backfield, even after he suffered a bad ankle injury in the spring. Shawn Nulik is back at cornerback after he led the team in interceptions.

Concerns include a small senior class, replacing Duwe and a fast receiving corps, replacing three starting defensive linemen and improving a defense that allowed 423 points, last in the 64-team Class 3A last year.

Jimmy McDowell is the new defensive coordinator.

“If the Roadrunners make big improvements here, than look for them to make some noise this year,” coach Justin Burke said.

From 2007-09, Maur Hill didn’t win a game, but ended a 30-game losing streak with a 23-10 Week 2 victory against Holton-Jackson Heights in the 2010 season. That year ended with a 2-7 season and the Ravens have posted back-toback 4-5 seasons since. In 2011, opponents outscored Maur Hill 249-160. Last year, it was 238-188. The Ravens started 2-0 and 4-2 with two victories by eight and one-point margins.

However, Maur Hill finished the season with an 0-3 district record and just one of those contests was within 16 points. This year, Maur Hill looks to return to the playoffs for the first time since 2002. The Ravens did win the 1992 Class 4A championship and finished state runner-up in ’84.

Jermaine Monroe, in his fifth year with the program and second as head coach, said the key will be “our young guys.” Maur Hill will have to find a replacement for quarterback Brock Hanf, who completed 61.1 percent of his passes for 1,640 yards with an 11/8 TD/INT ratio. The Ravens also graduated their top two rushers, but returns wideout Brian Scott, who caught three scores and led the team with 50 catches for 707 yards. Jake Schmidt is back after he was third last year with 72 tackles and tallied five TFLs. “We have a few guys that have been passionately waiting for their opportunity to step up and play a major role,” he said. “Our goal in 2013 is to be better than 2012! We just want to get a little better every day. On the football field we want to do better the current down than we did the last down. Getting better step by step until we reach the ultimate goal.”

Beloit collected its sixth straight seven-win season and third double-digit winning season in that span. The Trojans have now advanced to sub-state championship games in 2010 and ’12. Last year, Beloit defeated its first three playoff opponents by at least 28 points. Then, the Trojans lost 42-26 to eventual champion Scott City in the semifinal. Beloit’s offense led Kansas with 744 points against the No. 4-hardest schedule in Class 3A. Beloit has ranked in the top-seven in Class 3A scoring offense for six straight years.

The Trojans didn’t have to punt until a 52-24 playoff win against Sedgwick in the third round of the playoffs. Beloit actually outgained Scott City 436-384 in the playoff loss and averaged 371 rushing yards per game for the season.

Beloit will return its top two leading rushers in Bowe Behymer and Tanner Niemczyk.

Behymer rushed 190 times for 1,742 yards and 22 scores, while Niemczyk collected 140 carries for 1,128 yards and 12 TDs. Payton Vetter is in his fourth year as the starting quarterback after he rushed 76 times for 489 yards and nine scores and completed 39 of 72 passes for 840 yards with a 10/3 TD/INT ratio.

Beloit also returns senior Bryce Black, a first team all-league lineman, but graduated two first team all-league linemen in Jake Barrett and Cadyn Carter.

Coach Greg Koenig said the Trojans want to “improve each week and play our best football in November.”

“We have to replace several key positions, stay healthy, and develop some depth,” Koenig said.

The Wildcats have plenty of holes to fill after graduating a large senior class that included a pair of two-way All-League players in Korbin Ratzlaff (1,244 rushing yards) and Alec Smith as well as first-team All-League center Tyler Meats.

Veteran coach Rusty Emling does have a solid group of underclassmen returning, but his Wildcats will still need to grow up quickly to compete in the Tri-Valley League.

Burlington is coming off a 4-6 season in which they reached the playoffs as district runner-up.

Senior Joe Metzger returns with some experience at quarterback and junior Kendall Jeffers might be the Wildcats’ most experienced running back.

Junior Cooper Whitworth returns as the team’s kicker and will also see action at other positions.

The Wildcats open their season Septemer 6 against Anderson County.

4-5 in 2012 / 0-3 in district / 3A Delaware Valley League Coach: Jermaine Monroe (2nd year, 4-5) Assistants: Josh Rebant, Dave Bratton, Todd Caudle, Craig Handke Offense: Spread Defense: 5-3 Returning lettermen: 9 Returning starters: 9 Offense, 8 Defense Brian Scott, WR/DB, 6-2, 163, Sr.; Austin Geenens, RB/ LB, 5-8, 150, Sr.; Beau Veweis, TE/DE, 6-3, 160, Sr.; Ian Davis, OL/DL, 6-0, 200, Sr.; Mark McDermed, WR/DB, 6-1, 150, Sr.; Dillon Kramer, OL/DL, 6-1, 215, Sr.; Cole Siebenmorgen, OL/DL, 5-11, Jr.; Jake Schmidt, TE/LB, 6-0, 185, Jr.; Harry Trotter, RB/LB, 5-7, 160, So. Conor Nicholl

12-1 in 2012 / 3-0 in district / 3A North Central Activities Association Coach: Greg Koenig (8th year, 61-9; 15th overall, 87-68) Assistants: Ryan Isbell, Andy Niemczyk, Brandon Cox, Kevin Harris, Matt Thierholf Offense: Double Wing Defense: 10-1 Returning lettermen: 23 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 4 Defense Payton Vetter, QB/DB, 6-2, 190, Sr.; Bowe Behymer, RB/ LB, 5-8, 175, Sr.; Tanner Niemczyk, RB/DB, 5-10, 160, Sr.; Bryce Black, OL/DL, 5-11, 270, Sr.; R.J. Jackson, TE, 6-4, 210, Jr.; Elliot Kimminau, OL, 6-1, 255, Jr. Conor Nicholl

4-6 in 2012 / 0-3 in district / 3A Central Plains League Coach: Justin Burke (4th year, 12-17; 17th overall, 73-51) Assistants: Brock Bender, Jimmy McDowell, Britt Whealy, Charlie Coggins, Sheldon Patton, Josh Inslee Returning lettermen: 14 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 5 Defense Conner Dickey, RB/LB, 6-1, 220, Sr.; Chip Wannamaker, RB/LB, 5-11, 205, Sr.; Shawn Nulik, WR/DB, 5-9, 150, Sr.; Jaden Helms, OL, 6-3, 270, Jr.; Eric Hurt, OL, 6-1, 270, Jr.; Roger Clark, WR, 6-1, 155, Jr.; Austin Thomas, DL, 5-11, 185, Jr.; Adam Clark, LB, 5-9, 160, So. Conor Nicholl

CANEY VALLEY BULLPUPS Just four seniors are gone from Caney Valley’s 2012 squad that went 10-2, and veteran coach Criss Davis expects another deep playoff run from his Bullpups – provided they can stay healthy and learn some new positions.

“We only graduated four kids from last year’s team,” he said. “I think returning a lot of kids on both sides of the ball will be our biggest attribute. We’ve got a lot of kids coming back, but some are going to be playing new positions and now its going to be making sure we can put the puzzle together.”

Among those changing positions is lineman Levi Wyrick, who will move to quarterback for his junior season. Fellow junior Ethan Augustus, a tackle in 2012, slides into the backfield.

All-stater Timmy Brown returns at center along with six other seniors, including Travis Young who has experience at multiple positions.

“He played a lot of different positions last year,” Davis said of Young. “He’s my long snapper, he backed up some quarterback and

CHEROKEE-SOUTHEAST LANCERS

played some safety.”

On defense, the Bullpups return Ethan Augustus, Brown and Jacob Matthews up front plus Nick Camper and Wyrick at end, Dillon Shamblin at linebacker and both Jonathan Estes and Brady Hawkins in the secondary.

Caney Valley opens with Girard and then faces traditional 3A power Conway Springs.

“We want to get to the next level, so we went out and scheduled some of those teams,” Davis said.

After finishing 1-8 in 2011, the Southeast Lancers were a surprise team this past fall and opened the season with a 6-1 record.

The Lancers will try to continue to make improvements in 2013, but they will have to do so without coach Clint Rider and several key players, including quarterback Josh Thompson and wide receiver Daniel Peak.

Rider left to take the head coaching job at Hesston. He will be replaced by former Neodesha assistant Jake Lott.

Southeast will be switching from the spread 10-2 in 2012 / 3-0 in district / 3A offense to the flexbone under Lott. The Lancers Tri-Valley League bring back six starters on each side of the ball, Coach: Criss Davis including all-league wide receiver Ryan RakAssistants: Jeff Wyrick, Robert Osborn estraw, all-league fullback Colton Charlton and Offense: Wishbone Defense: 5-2 Monster all-league defensive end Riley Ulery.

Returning lettermen: N/A The Lancers also will be big up front with Returning starters: 8 offense, 8 defense Timmy Brown, C/DT, Sr.; Ethan Augustus, OT/DT; Jr.; three returning starters on the offensive line Chase Owen, G, Sr.; Nick Camper, TE/DE, Sr.; Jonathan in senior Cameron Clark (6-2, 250), junior Estes, TE/DB, Sr.; Levi Wyrick, DE, Jr.; Brady Hawkins, Bryce Blockburger (5-9, 250) and junior Aaron FB/CB, Sr.; Dillon Shamblin, FB/LB, Sr.; Jacob Matthews, Westervelt (6-2, 215).

DT, Jr.; Travis Young, LS/QB/S, Sr. Melanie McGee “The line will be key to the team’s success,”

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Lott said. “We have a good group of linemen returning, and as they go the team goes. If they can have a good year, then the team will also.

We will be fairly young in the skill position areas and will need returning and new faces to step up into key positions.”

6-3 in 2012 / 1-2 in district / 3A Crawford-Neosho-Cherokee League Coach: Jake Lott (1st year, 0-0) Assistants: Frank Pittman, Nick Cheney, David Dainty Offense: Flexbone Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 18 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Cameron Clark, OL/DL, 6-2, 250, Sr.; Caleb Biancarelli, S, 5-10, 165, Jr.; Ryan Rakestraw, WR/LB, 6-2, 170, Jr.; Colton Charlton, FB/LB, 5-10, 190, Jr.; Riley Ulery, TE/ DE, 6-4, 195, Jr.; Bryce Blockburger, OL/DL, 5-9, 250, Jr.; Jared Watson, DB/RB, 5-7, 130, Jr.; Aaron Westervelt, OL/DL, 6-2, 215, Jr. Mark Schremmer

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4-6 in 2012 / 2-1 in district / 3A Tri-Valley League Coach: Rusty Emling Assistants: N/A Offense: N/A Defense: N/A Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: N/A Cooper Whitworth, K, 5-6, 125, Jr.; Joe Metzger, QB/LB, 5-10, 180, Sr.; Kendall Jeffers, RB/LB, 5-7, 150, Jr. Melanie McGee

511 S. Main • Galena, KS 66739 620-783-5034 • www.sentineltimes.com

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

Page 44

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Two years ago, Cherryvale had massive injuries, including four season-enders, three to twoway starters. Last season, turnovers were the big problem for the 3-6 Chargers. Opponents outscored Cherryvale 218-115. The Chargers started 1-4 last year and were outscored 71-0 in its first two games. Offense was an issue as Cherryvale went 2-0 when it scored more than 16 points.

Coach Harry Hester said the theme of last season was “close.” Cherryvale played Humboldt within five points and held the Cubs to a season-low 21 points. It lost to Burlington 21-13.

“Both of those games could have gone our way as fumbled snaps into the end zone were recovered for TDs in both games,” Hester said.

In a 22-0 loss to Iola, Cherryvale fumbled 12 times. In a 39-8 loss to Neodesha, Cherryvale allowed two pick-sixes.

“We were really close to having a good year and with only five seniors we were hoping to carry it over to 2013,” Hester said. “Defense played well for most of the season against a tough schedule. Offensively, we struggled to move the ball due to fumbles, botched snaps and interceptions. We also had the injury bug hit us as we lost four two-way starters for different games due to various injuries; we also had other issues.”

This year, quarterback Zach Trim is back after he started four games at quarterback. The Chargers will likely need to improve passing.

Last year, the team had a 2/13 TD/INT ratio, fumbled 25 times and finished minus-4 in turnover margin.

Four offensive linemen with starting experience return. Senior Cody Hockett was honorable mention all-area at linebacker with 59 tackles, two sacks, a tackle for loss, two forced fumbles and a blocked kick.

“We will go as far as our senior leadership takes us,” Hester said.

Cimarron won just 10 games in coach Doug Minneman’s first four years, including a 2-7 record in 2011 before it enjoyed a five-win improvement to 7-3 last fall. The Bluejays reached the playoffs with a 2-1 record in Class 3A, District 16 because a 20-17 Week 7 victory against Lakin. That ended a stretch of three victories by a combined 10 points (20-19 against Larned and 32-26 versus Elkhart). The victory marked just the second time in the last nine meetings Cimarron defeated Lakin. Lakin outgained Cimarron 395-291 and ran 10 more plays, but Cimarron benefited from two turnovers and a 68-yard pass play. The victory against Elkhart halted a threegame losing streak versus the Wildcats.

Cimarron brings back eight offensive and five defensive starters, including junior quarterback A.J. Cooper who completed 50 of 100 passes for 784 yards with a 7/7 TD/INT ratio. Senior Ty Clark is back after he collected 169 carries for 1,312 yards and 17 scores.

On defense, Cimarron has to replace linebacker Alex Neuschafer, a four-year starter, who led the team with 129 tackles, seven for loss, both team-highs.

The Bluejays committed 22 turnovers and finished minus-6 in turnover margin. Cimarron has made 13 playoff appearances in school history and has made it to the second round six times, but has never made it past the second round.

The 2010 and ’12 postseason appearances were the first since ’98.

“Should have good leadership with a solid senior class,” Minneman said. “Freshman class will have several talented players compete for playing time. Jr./So. classes will be small in number. Having success will be key. Middle and late part of the schedule gets very tough with Meade, Elkhart, Larned, Holcomb.”

Conway Springs reached the state playoffs in 1969 and then again in ’86 and ’87. Then, the Cardinals didn’t make the playoffs since 1997, a year that signaled one of the great runs in state history. Since then, Conway Springs has made the playoffs every year except for 1999 and ’06.

Conway Springs won championships in ’98, ’01-’04, ’08 and ’11. The Cardinals have continuity with their single wing and coaching staff.

Head coach Matt Biehler is in 16th year with Conway Springs, his fifth as head coach. Gregg Hullinger is in his 18th year, Fred Cottrell in his 17th year on the staff. Brent Martens is in his tenth year, Ryan King his sixth and Darrin Seiwert his third.

This year, Conway Springs graduates Tanner Wood, a Top 11 All Classes player now at Kansas State University, who completed 23 of 53 passes for 526 yards with a 6/4 TD/INT ratio and who rushed 256 times for 2,709 yards and 39 TDs. In an 84-56 victory against Chapparal on Oct. 19, Wood set a state record with 659 rushing yards. This fall, Conway Springs returns plenty up front.

“Conway Springs returns several key players, especially in the line, for the 2013 season,” Biehler said. “We will need to develop in the skill positions. Early season varsity experience will be important.”

Lee Weber, a Fort Hays alum and former Plainville and Mission Valley coach, takes over a Council Grove team that has struggled for many years. The Braves’ last playoff berth was a 76-0 loss to Pleasant Ridge in 2009. Before then, Council Grove hadn’t made the postseason since 1992. The only other playoff showings came in 1987 and 1974. The Braves are 0-4 all-time in the postseason.

Weber has multiple goals. The first one is in all capital letters: compete every snap, every series, every quarter, every game. The next goals are: 1-0 each week, develop the work ethic, toughness, will to win and intensity that we need to develop a championship program.

As well, Weber would like to win the Flint Hills League, win a playoff game and build quality young men.

“I consider them all to be of equal importance in our aim to develop a championship football program here at Council Grove,” Weber said.

Weber said the most important key is “WORK.” He has set a goal to hold teams under 20 points a game. Last year, opponents outscored the Braves 303-185 against the fifth-easiest Class 3A schedule, according to preppowerindex.com.

“Our offense will have to prove an ability to play explosively and score from anywhere on the field for us to be successful,” Weber said.

“On special teams, we must play flawlessly this season and play field position football.”

3-6 in 2012 / 1-2 in district / 3A Tri-Valley League Coach: Harry Hester (6th year, 29-19; 11th year, 47-48) Assistants: Casey Lickteig, David Smedley, Jared Han, Chad Knight, Josh Addis, Aaron Rehmert Offense: Spread Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: 18 Returning starters: 7 Offense, 10 Defense Zach Trim, QB/WR/CB, Sr.; Tristan Thornton, RB/DE, Sr.; Cole Wenino, OL/LB, Sr.; Ty Wood, OL, Sr.; Grant Robinson, OL, Sr.; Chase Davidson, WR, Sr.; Kaden Housel, TE, Jr.; Jordan Ellis, OL, Jr.; Tristan Thornton, DE, Sr.; Cody Hockett, LB, Sr.; J.D. Gastineau, LB, Jr.; Kaden Housel, DE, Jr.; Jessie John, CB, Jr.; Zach Torkelson, CB, Jr. Conor Nicholl

7-3 in 2012 / 2-1 in district / 3A Hi-Plains League Coach: Doug Minneman (5th year, 17-30) Assistants: Van Keaton, Ashley Seabolt Offense; Pistol Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: 10 Returning starters: 8 Offense, 5 Defense Caleb Fischer, QB/DB, 5-10, 150, Sr.; A.J. Cooper, WR/ DB, 6-2, 170, Jr..; Seth Pachner, DB, 5-10, 150, Sr.; Ty Clark, RB/LB, 6-0, 185, Sr.; Christian Fischer, WR/ DB, 6-0, 175, Sr.; Isaac Stanley, WR/DB, 5-8, 140, Sr.; Kaleb Nueschafer, OL, 5-8, 165, Jr.; Charlie Pfeifer, OL, 5-8, 155, Sr.; Cody Toothaker, DL, 5-8, 160, Sr.; Nick Franzitta, OL, 5-11, 165, So. Conor Nicholl

ELLSWORTH BEARCATS Ellsworth will have its third coach in as many years after Brent Schneider takes over for Tyler Hampton, who replaced Ken Windholz.

Schneider was an El Dorado assistant coach and a Sterling native. Last year, Ellsworth made the playoffs despite going 1-2 in district play.

The Bearcats were the only 3A team that didn’t go 3-0 or 2-1 in district play and still made the playoffs. Ellsworth, Gypsum-Southeast of Saline and Lyons all finished -13 in points in district play behind Sacred Heart, but the Bearcats earned the tiebreaker.

Ellsworth lost 66-0 to Beloit in the playoffs, the third straight first round exit in as many years for the Bearcats. Ellsworth lost 34-14 to Beloit in 2010 and 52-13 to Smith Center in

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2011. Ellsworth has won playoff games just once in school history, when it reached Class 3A sub-state in 1987.

Coach Schneider said the team’s goals are to “improve throughout the season” and “we want to limit turnovers and develop fundamentals.”

5-5 in 2012 / 1-2 in district / 3A North Central Activities Association Coach: Brent Schneider (1st year) Assistants: Steve Bolton, Grant Weigers Offense: N/A Defense: N/A Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 7 Offense, 7 Defense Jesse Kidd Sr.; Grant Glaser Sr.; Mo Rojas Sr.; Takota Anderson Jr.; Tim Zamrzla Jr.; Lucas Barta Jr.; Zach Gustus; Ty Neinke Sr. Conor Nicholl

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9-2 in 2012 / 3-0 in district / 3A Central Plains League Coach: Matt Biehler (5th year, 45-5) Assistants: Fred Cottrell, Brent Martens, Gregg Hullinger, Ryan King, Darrin Seiwart Offense: Single Wing Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: 21 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Alec Stanley, RB/LB, 6-0, 165, Sr.; Dakota Finstad, RB/ DB, 6-0, 175, Sr.; Travis Wood, TE/LB, 6-3, 175, Jr.; Logan Creek, OL/DL, 6-3, 265, Jr.; Thomas Berntsen, OL/DL, 6-2, 260, Jr.; Ethan Roth, OL/DL, 6-1, 250, Sr.; Alec Brozovich, RB/DB, 5-6, 150, Sr. Conor Nicholl

3-6 in 2012 / 0-3 in district / 3A Flint Hills League Coach: Lee Weber (1st year, 13th overall, 52-59) Assistants: Joe Buchanan, Jay Doornbos, Eric Regier, Casey Maransani, Keith Grafel, Offense: Wishbone/Flexbone/Spread Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: N/A Conor Nicholl

ERIE RED DEVILS The Erie Red Devils didn’t have a lot of things go right in 2012, finishing with a 1-8 record.

However, Erie does have some building blocks for improvement in 2013.

Erie returns seven starters on offense and six on defense, and the team now has a year of experience under second-year head coach Rick Horton.

“Our team goals are to compete in every game on every play,” Horton said. “We want to get better every week.

Among the key players back on offense are quarterback Brett Thompson and all-league honorable mention wide receiver Gavon Page.

The Red Devils also return receiver Brandt Beachner and four starters to the offensive line in Rowdy Lahey, Kyle Dean, Sheldon Diediker

and Jordan Turner.

Many of the same names will lead the defense, including Diediker, an all-CNC honorable mention pick on the defensive line. Dean and Thompson will lead the linebacker corps.

1-8 in 2012 / 0-3 in district / 3A Crawford-Neosho-Cherokee League Coach: Rick Horton (2nd year, 1-8; 6th overall, 22-32) Assistants: Tim Endicott Offense: Spread Defense: 3-5 Returning lettermen: 15 Returning starters: 7 Offense, 6 Defense Rowdy Lahey, OL, Jr.; Kyle Dean, OL/LB, Sr.; Sheldon Diediker, OL/DL, Sr.; Jordan Turner, OL/DL, Sr.; Brett Thompson, QB/LB, Sr.; Gavon Page, WR/DB, Sr.; Brandt Beachner, WR/DB, So. Mark Schremmer

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Cody Witte’s tenure at Mission Valley will begin with 13 lettermen returning off the 2012 squad. That team went 5-4 overall and 1-2 in district games.

The Vikings bring back senior quarterback Colton Marcotte, senior running back Cody Smallwood, senior linemen Kameron Kraus and Zane Green, junior tackle Colton Conway and junior tight end Tanner Allen to pace the offense.

Defensively, Mission Valley returns Conway on the front line, Allen and Smallwood at linebacker and three members of the secondary – Marcotte at free safety and juniors Willis Butler and Cody Walker.

The Vikings will open the 2013 season Sept. 6 at Lyndon before hosting Herington in week 2.

Mission Valley’s district schedule begins with a trip to Rossville and concludes with home games against St. Marys and Council Grove.

Nearly every starter is back for Fredonia, which is looking to get back in the win column after an 0-9 2012 season.

“This team hasn’t won a game and hasn’t lost a game,” coach Mike Casteel said. “These seniors want to make a mark on Fredonia football for themselves. We will show up to play and play a more physical game. We will be experienced and have some depth. We have a group of hard-working kids that will compete, that will play hard.”

The Yellowjackets return 10 starters on both sides of the ball, including sophomore quarterback Isaac Ostrosky, who completed 37 of 81 passes last season for 374 yards and five touchdowns. Senior Luke Plummer also has experience under center after throwing for 255 yards and three touchdowns a year ago.

Plummer, Brogan Humphrey and Tyler Stephens all scored rushing touchdowns in 2012, while Stephens and Humphrey return as the 5-4 in 2012 / 1-2 in district / Class 3A leading receivers also.

Flint Hills League Humphrey and junior Caleb Crouch both Coach: Cody Witte (1st year) averaged more than 15 yards per kickoff return, Assistants: Justin Duncan, Drew Steffen, Mike Otto, while Crouch also returned seven punts for 67 Jordan Hysten, Logan “Bim” Brammell yards.

Offense: N/A Defense: N/A “I think we will be a better prepared team this Returning lettermen: 13 Returning starters: 6 offense, 6 defense year in part because we will have excellent Colton Marcotte, QB/FS, Sr.; Kameron Kraus, C, Sr.; senior leadership, especially in the weight Cody Smallwood, RB/MLB, Sr.; Zane Green, G, Sr.; Cody room,” Casteel said. “That will be an advantage Walker, DB, Jr.; Willis Butler, DB, Jr.; Colton Conway,T/ everywhere from the locker room to the game DT, Jr.; Tanner Allen, TE/MLB, Jr. Melanie McGee field. While we may be coming off a tough year we will not make excuses and we won’t take shortcuts. We are going to do things right.”

0-9 in 2012 / 0-3 in district / Class 3A Tri Valley League Coach: Mike Casteel (2nd year) Assistants: Rex Pope, Carl Dinkel, Mark Millar, Kraig Westhoff Offense: Gun Spread Defense: 3-4/4-3 Returning lettermen: 22 Returning starters: 10 Offense, 10 Defense Zach Moya, 6-3, 260, OT/DT, Sr.; Luke Plummer, 5-9, 200, QB/RB/LB, Sr.; Brogan Humphrey, 5-7, 155, RB/DB, Sr.; Devin Howard, 5-9, 255, OT/NG, Sr.; Codi Martin, 5-10, 215, OG/LB, Sr.; Tommy Finley, 5-10, 180, OG/DE, Sr.; Tyler Morris, 6-1, 195, TE/OLB, Sr.; Caleb Crouch, 5-10, 160, CB, Jr.; Tre Present, 5-11, 215, OG, Jr.; Tyler Stephens, 5-9, 160, RB/CB, Jr.; Isaac Ostrosky, 160, QB, So. Melanie McGee

GYPSUM-SOUTHEAST OF SALINE TROJANS Southeast of Saline went W-L-W-L-W-L in its first six games. Then, the Trojans lost its first two district games before it ended the year with a 28-7 victory against Ellsworth.

Keith Short returns after he was honorable mention all-league running back with 78 carries for 381 yards and five TDs. Short led the Trojans with 12 catches for 173 yards and a TD and 10 punt returns for 82 yards. He also collected 12 kickoff returns for 236 yards and a TD. Short led the team with 872 all-purpose yards.

Caden Springer is back after he paced the team with 64 tackles and earned all-league honorable mention honors. Jacob Pengra was an honorable mention all-league defensive lineman and Cole Sauber was an honorable mention all-league defensive back.

“We have a lot of experience coming back,” Gebhardt said. “If we have a good summer, we should be competitive.”

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Coach: Mitch Gebhardt (4th year, 15-13; 11th overall, 42-59) Assistants: Chance Ptacek, Trenton Douglas, Kent Jacobson, Brad Edwards Offense: Spread Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: 23 Returning starters: 9 Offense, 8 Defense Keith Short, RB/S, 6-0, 175, Sr.; Jacob Pengra, G/DT, 6-2, 285, Sr.; Bailey Ramsey, E, 6-1, 160, Sr.; Dane Long, RB, 6-0, 170, Sr.; Kayden Besher, B/OLB, 5-10, 175, Sr.; Andrew Peuchen, G, 5-10, 170, Sr.; Cole Sauber, CB, 6-0, 160, Sr.; Caden Springer, ILB, 5-11, 200, Sr.; Logan Ade, LB, 6-0, 200, Sr.; Walker Srna, OLB, 6-0, 165, Sr. Conor Nicholl

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GALENA BULLDOGS

GARDEN PLAIN OWLS

The Galena Bulldogs return seven starters on each side of the ball from a team that finished 6-4 and advanced to the first round of the Class 3A playoffs.

“We will have to get better each week and stay healthy,” Galena coach Beau Sarwinski said.

“We need to take one play at a time. Keys to our season will be offensively we must execute.

Defensively, we will have to be aggressive and tackle. We must control the line of scrimmage and be physical on both sides of the football.”

The Bulldogs have a good start up front with three returning starters to the offensive and defensive line, including all-Crawford-Neosho-Cherokee League honorable mention Kyle Wilkins (6-2, 250). Galena also has many of its skill position players back in quarterback Kyler Cook (5-11, 170), running back Logan Johnson (6-0, 170) and wide receivers Nick Sivert (6-0, 150) and J.C. Pugsley (6-3, 180).

Sivert, Cook, Johnson and Gabe Helton (5-10, 175) form a veteran defensive backfield. Sivert earned second-team all-league honors last year.

Galena returns a good dose of returning starters but lacks experience after that. The Bulldogs return only eight lettermen from last year’s team, which fell to Caney Valley in the first round of the playoffs.

Brad McCormick, on the Garden Plain staff for seven years, helped the Owls continue their winning tradition when he took over as head coach last year. Garden Plain finished 11-1 and finished as sectional runner-up. Garden Plain as gone 11-1, 9-2, 8-3, 12-1, 14-0 and 12-2 the last six years. McCormick said the team’s strength is all the returning experience of juniors and seniors that played last year. Weaknesses are a lack of depth at each position.

“We have a lot of kids and want to make sure that we have more depth and better experience at those positions,” McCormick said.

McCormick said the keys are to stay healthy and development of our younger kids. Garden Plain defeated Marion 49-14 in the first round of the playoffs last year and then beat rival Conway Springs 33-28 in the second round before it lost 49-0 to eventual state champion Scott City in the third round.

Garden Plain averaged 350 rushing yards and 43.3 points per contest last year.

Seniors Wyatt Lehner and Ethan Balesstracci return after they earned all-league honors last season; Lehner on both sides of the line and Balesstracci at linebacker.

The Owls will miss the loss of starting quarterback Caleb Arnold who transferred to Derby for his senior season. at 6-foot, 200 pounds, and running a 4.5 40, Arnold was one of the best players in class 3A. “We need to focus on the execution of our offense and defense and making sure we do that as a unit,” McCormick said. “We have a great schedule that will test us and better prepare us for the playoffs.”

6-4 in 2012 / 2-1 in district / 3A Crawford-Neosho-Cherokee League Coach: Beau Sarwinski (7th year, 49-17) Assistants: Brad Price, Derik Hunt, Martin Burke, Dennis Outt Offense: Wing-T Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: 8 Returning starters: 7 offense, 7 defense Nick Sivert, WR/DB, 6-0, 150, Sr.; Kyler Cook, QB/DB, 5-11, 170, Jr.; J.C. Pugsley, WR/LB, 6-3, 180, Jr.; Logan Johnson, RB/DB, 6-0, 170, Jr.; Kyle Wilkins, OL/DL, 6-2, 250, Jr.; Gunnar Youngblood, OL/DE, 6-0, 180, Sr.; Mason Qualls, OL/DL, 5-10, 190, So.; Gabe Helton, DB, 5-10, 175, Jr. Mark Schremmer

11-1 in 2012 / 3-0 in district / 3A Central Plains League Coach: Brad McCormick (2nd year, 11-1) Assistants: Greg Gegen, Bob Smith, Eric Rockers, Kody Kasselman, William Bergkamp Offense: Bone/Flexbone Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 24 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 5 Defense Wyatt Lehner, OL/DL, 225, Sr.; Ethan Balesstracci, RB/ LB, 215, Sr.; Ross Hartshorn, OL/DL, 240, Sr.; Tommy Rowold, OL/DL, 220, Sr.; Gunner Cornett, OL/DL, 215, Jr.; Jonah Nowak, OL/DL, 240, So. Conor Nicholl

HALSTEAD DRAGONS Since 2000, Halstead had made three playoff appearances in 2005, ’06 and ’08 with two firstround losses in ’05 and ’06 and a first round victory against Gypsum-Southeast of Saline in ’08. Halstead has posted three straight winning seasons and is 8-1 at home the last two years.

The Dragons started the season 4-1, but then lost three of its final four contests, including a 40-22 loss to Marion in Week 7 and a 35-8 defeat to Hillsboro in Week 9. Halstead played five games within 13 points last year and went 2-3 in such contests. As well, the Dragons had similar scores in many of its games. It scored between 18 and 32 points six times and allowed between 13 and 29 points seven times “We enter this next year with a little different feeling than we have the last couple of seasons,” coach Marc Svaty said. “We have a lot returning, yet lose almost all of our skill kids with the graduation of this last class. We will fill the shoes of those that departed with young players.

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ry the football for us this fall,” he added. “Our offensive line returns intact, and we do have talent and depth. This will be an interesting season for the Halstead Dragons. We set goals each year for each senior class to improve on the successes for the previous class. This year’s senior class and team must gel, bond and be leaders both by actions and words for that to happen.”

5-4 in 2012 / 2-2 in district / 3A Central Kansas League Coach: Marc Svaty (6th year, 29-26) Assistants: J.R. Kaiser Offense: Flexbone Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: 23 Returning starters: 10 Offense, 10 Defense Jerry Black, OL/DL, 5-9, 215, Sr.; Kody Keiser, OL/DL, 6-0, 200, Sr.; Steve Black, OL/DL, 6-2, 210, Sr.; David Loucks, OL/DL, 6-2, 260, Jr.; Dakota Eash, OL/DL, 6-2, 240, Jr.; Keifer Oneal, RB/DB, 5-10, 170, Jr.; Joseph Myers, RB/LB, 5-9, 185, Jr.; Dalton Haight, WR/LB, 5-9, 155, Sr.; Blake Beckett, RB/LB, 6-1, 170, So.; Elijah McKee, WR/DB, 5-9, 150, So. Conor Nicholl

Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

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HAVEN WILDCATS

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HIAWATHA REDHAWKS

HILLSBORO TROJANS

Scott L’Ecuyer never actually applied for the Haven job, but multiple people kept naming L’Ecuyer as a strong coach. L’Ecuyer, 31, was the defensive coordinator at Leon-Bluestem.

Haven sent out some feelers and L’Ecuyer had a lengthy face-to-face interview which led to a job offer and L’Ecuyer accepted the position.

He took over for Mike Self, who became Haven’s athletic director. Haven won four games in 2011 and then fell to 1-8 in 2011 before it went 5-5 in 2012. Haven has a winning percentage of .290 since 1977.

Last year, Haven lost 34-13 to Hillsboro in the first round of the playoffs. Before then, Haven had previously made the playoffs in 2003. The Wildcats also lost in the first round in 1993, ’89 and ’85.

Senior quarterback Tim Hendrixson, running back/linebacker Austin Fritzemeier and Isaac Enz are among the key returners. Haven won games by seven, eight and seven points, but took some big losses. Opponents outscored Haven 281-221. Haven defeated Hutchinson Trinity, 35-10, and Kingman, 34-27, in district play. Haven had lost to Kingman, 31-12 and 32-0, the two previous years.

“Last year’s playoff appearance has generated excitement in and around the football program,” L’Ecuyer said. “We return size on the offensive and defensive line, and speed in our skill positions. Our deep junior class should be a nice complement to our talented senior class. The departing class of 2012 was deep and talented.

Thus, our success in 2013 is dependent on our young players’ commitment to the offseason program as several will be depended upon in key roles this fall.”

Second-year coach Jon Montgomery, a former Fort Hays player and Monarch defensive coordinator, had some struggles in his first year as head coach. After a 5-4 record in 2011 that marked the first winning season since 2002, TMP dropped back to 2-7 with wins against Ellinwood and Russell.

Montgomery remained optimistic throughout a year that yielded a 28-7 loss to Clay Center in Week 2 that produced just one Monarch first down and four losses by at least 45 points.

The Monarchs scored 15 points per game, a drop back from averaging 24.7 points per game in 2012. Defensively, it allowed 40.8 points per contest after it combined to allow 31.7 points per game in Montgomery’s two years as a defensive coordinator. Montgomery’s main goal is to “continually work to get better each day.”

Lineman Cameron Fouts and running back Nick Schmidt are the only returning starters who started more than one year. The Monarchs will have to find a new quarterback after it graduated Shane Zimmerman.

The Monarchs’ last playoff berth was a Class 3A sub-state championship game appearance in 2002. Before that, a second round exit in 1999 is the only playoff appearance since 1977.

Hiawatha lost three games last season, but if you look a little closer you’ll see how close the Redhawks were to being one of the top teams in Class 3A. The Redhawks’ three losses were to Class 4A state champion Holton, Class 3A runner-up Silver Lake and the Nemaha Valley Raiders, who Hiawatha beat in a rematch during the first round of the playoffs. Hiawatha’s season ended with a 63-23 loss to Silver Lake in the second round.

However, the Redhawks return nine starters on each side of the ball as they look to improve in 2013.

“We believe that we can make a run in the playoffs if we stay healthy,” Hiawatha coach Chris Diller said.

Leading the way is all-state senior tight end and defensive end Peyton Newell. The 6-3, 280-pounder is considered the No. 4 college recruit in the state behind Class 6A stars Braden Smith, Deandre Goolsby and Traevohn Wrench.

Newell received offers from Division I schools all over the country and is expected to choose between Kansas, Kansas State, Nebraska and South Carolina.

Hiawatha also returns several key starters in running backs Parker Hasenkamp and Quentin Overdick, linemen Marshall Swearinger, Shawn Green and Bryce Oldridge, wide receiver Conner Bigham and tight end Nick Reese.

Lance Sawyer had success at White City with a spread offense and then helped Hillsboro enjoy a big year last season in his first fall as coach. The Trojans, long known for a ground and pound attack, quickly implemented Sawyer’s spread offense and outscored opponents 390-129. The previous year, Hillsboro outscored opponents 231-205.

Shaq Thiessen collected Class 3A all-state honors at wide receiver. He finished with 38 catches for 869 yards and 11 scores, but graduated. Tyler Proffitt also graduated after he completed 61 percent of his passes for 2,332 yards with a 25/18 TD/INT ratio. He also rushed for 575 yards and led the team with 162 carries and 12 scores.

Senior Evan Ollenburger is the only Trojan back who had more than three catches and 30 yards (36 catches, 392 yards, 5 TDs). He collected 58 tackles, sixth-best last year, but most among returning players, and is the only returning starter – and the only returning player who started on both sides of the ball in 2012.

This year, Sawyer has to replace all five starters on the offensive line, but has some underclassmen to step in.

“We are going to continue to look to compete at a high level,” Sawyer said. “We will strive to continue getting better and have a developed team ready to enter district play.”

5-5 in 2012 / 2-1 in district / 3A Central Kansas League Coach: Scott L’Ecuyer (1st year) Assistants: N/A Offense: N/A Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: 10 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 9 Defense Austin Fritzemeier, RB/LB, 6-0, 180, Sr.; Isaac Enz, 6-1, 190, OL/DL, Sr. Caleb Hopkins, OL/DL, 5-10, 220, Sr.; Tim Hendrixson, QB/DB, 5-10, 160, Jr.; Zach Froese, OL/ LB, 5-11, 200, Sr.; Reed Oxley, WR/DB, 5-10. 165, Sr.; Riley Waggoner, OL/DL, 6-0, 200, Jr. Conor Nicholl

2-7 in 2012 / 1-2 in district / 3A Mid Central Activities Association Coach: John Montgomery (2nd year, 2-7) Assistants: James Harris, Travis Reece, Colby McKinney, Ricky Jacques Offense: Pro I Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 16 Returning starters: 8 Offense, 10 Defense Cameron Fouts, TE/LB, 6-0, 190, Jr.; Ryan Mayorga, WR/DB, 6-2, 175, Sr.; Nick Schmidt, RB/DB, 5-7, 170, Jr.; Michael Schulte, RB/LB, 5-10, 185, Sr.; Jared Gabel, RB/LB, 5-9, 180, Sr.; Adam Schibi, OL/DL, 6-3, 225, Sr.; Dan O’Connor, OL/DL, 5-11, 175, Jr.; Aaron Moore, OL/ DL, 6-1, 250, Sr.; Nick Schumacher, OL/DL, 6-0, 245, Sr.; Grant Romme, WR/DB, 5-7, 155, Sr.; Justin Pfeifer, TE/ DL, 6-0, 160, So.; Skyler Urban, WR/DB, 5-11, 165, Sr. Conor Nicholl

HOISINGTON CARDINALS After a two-year absence from the postseason, Hoisington returned to the playoffs and lost 28-7 to Holcomb in the first round. This fall, third-year coach Jason Ingram said the team is in a “rebuilding” season with just four starters back on each side of the ball.

Avery Urban returns after he was the third-leading rusher with 61 carries for 445 yards and five scores. No other returner had more than 45 rushing yards in 2012. Urban led the team with 79 tackles.

“In this rebuilding year our team still has great ambitions of building a true winning tradition and family atmosphere,” Ingram said. “Our senior leadership will be very important in reaching this goal.”

Cameron Richter was a solid returner as a freshman with 287 kickoff return yards, while Jacob Warnken passed for 150 yards as a freshman.

The Cardinals played the No. 21-hardest strength of schedule out of 64 Class 3A teams last year, according to preppowerindex.com.

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8-3 in 2012 / 4-0 in district / 3A Big 7 Coach: Chris Diller (5th year, 22-27) Assistants: Gordan Gundersen, Andrew Eckert, Matt Lock, Gus Lindstrom Offense: Multiple Sets Defense: 5-2 Returning lettermen: 16 Returning starters: 9 Offense, 9 Defense Peyton Newell, TE/DE, 6-3, 280, Sr.; Parker Hasenkamp, RB/LB, 6-0, 190, Sr.; Quentin Overdick, RB/LB, 6-2, 190, Sr.; Marshall Swearinger, OL/DL, 6-5, 240, Sr.; Shawn Green, OL/DL, 6-1, 230, Sr.; Bryce Oldridge, OL/ DL, 5-10, 245, Sr.; Conner Bigham, WR/DB, 6-3, 180, Sr.; Nick Reese, TE/DE, 6-2, 180, Jr.; Brenden Steele, 5-9, 170, Jr. Mark Schremmer

10-1 in 2012 / 3-0 in district / 3A Central Kansas League Coach: Lance Sawyer (2nd year, 10-1; 7th overall, 25-31) Assistants: Scott O’Hare, Darrel Knoll, Robert Haude Offense: Spread Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 5 Returning starters: 1 Offense, 4 Defense Evan Ollenburger, WR/DB, 6-0, 145, Sr.;Jesse Brown, DB, 6-0, 155, Sr.; Cody Delk, DE, 6-1, 150, Sr.; Justus Hilliard, DB, 5-6, 165, Jr. Conor Nicholl

HOLCOMB LONGHORNS

Hoisington will again play Class 5A Great Bend, Class 2A power La Crosse, Class 3A Phillipsburg and defending Class 3A champion Scott City. Last year, Hoisington went 0-4 against those squads.

“The key to our team’s success will definitely be the commitment and growth by our sophomores and freshmen,” Ingram said. “They are going to be put into very tough situations and will need to rise to the occasion early and often.

With that they do have a winning attitude and are ready for this challenge.”

Last year, Holcomb won a playoff game for the first time since 2003; Holcomb was 1-7 in the playoffs in the 2000s and then also lost a playoff game last year before it defeated Hoisington 28-7 in the first round last year.

Then, the Longhorns lost, 60-8, to Beloit in the second round. Holcomb’s only other loss came to Scott City, 21-7, in Week 3. The Beavers eventually went 14-0, won the GWAC title and the Class 3A state championship. Holcomb is 1-9 in its past 10 meetings against Scott City with six straight losses.

Holcomb also was the only team to defeat 5-5 in 2012 / 2-1 in district / 3A Class 2-1A champion Meade with a 28-27 Mid Central Activities Association season-opening victory. Holcomb sealed the Coach: Jason Ingram (3rd year, 10-9) game with an interception with 61 seconds left.

Assistants: Zach Baird, Matt Koelsch, Bob Brungardt A 35-25 victory against Ulysses ended a threeOffense: Pro I/Spread Defense: 3-4 game losing streak versus the Tigers.

Returning lettermen: 10 “We are hoping to compete for a league title Returning starters: 4 Offense, 4 Defense Avery Urban, RB/LB, Sr.; Seth Owen, OL/DL, Jr.; Darin in the GWAC,” coach Jerry Johnson said. “We Poland, OL/DL, Sr.; Nolan McCurry, DB, Jr.; Brandon would like to return to the playoffs and see if Ball, WR, Sr. we can make a run. The biggest key for us is to Conor Nicholl stay healthy. Another key will be the offensive LE ON, B E CK Y A ND THE S TA FF W ISH THE CA R DINA LS LS GOO D LUCK !

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line. We don’t have any returning starters from last year. How quickly they develope at the beginning of the season will determine a lot.”

Holcomb graduated quarterback Tyler LaSalle (team-high 1,564 passing, 1,119 rushing), but return senior Heath Tucker, one of the state’s fastest players, who had 735 all-purpose yards in just six games, second-most to LaSalle.

Blake Richmeier returns after he led the team with 92 tackles.

9-2 in 2012 / 3-0 in district / 3A Greater West Activities Conference Coach: Jerry Johnson (7th year, 48-22) Assistants: Brandon Hill, Wes Wickwar, Luke Harrington, Lucas Sullivan Offense: Pistol Option Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: 12 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 4 Defense Heath Tucker, QB/FS, 6-3, 180, Sr.; Corey Roth, WR/ CB, 5-9, 165, Sr.; Jesse Jarnagin, DT, 6-1, 260, Sr.; Calen Rupp, WR, 5-9, 165, Jr.; Blake Richmeier, FB/ILB, 6-2, 215, Jr. Conor Nicholl

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Hutchinson Trinity has consistently been one of the stronger Class 3A teams. Coach Sean Racette went 35-9 in five seasons before he took a job at Hutchinson Community College last year. Brad Hollinger led the Celtics to a 5-4 season. This year, the Celtics – with an 11-7 record and no postseason appearances in the last two years – look to return to the playoffs.

Racette rejoins the staff as an assistant coach.

Hollinger lists the top goals as competing for a league and district championships.

“Better execution on offense and being gap sound on defense,” Hollinger said of the team’s keys. “Taking advantage of special teams as well.”

Trinity lost to Haven, 35-10, in Week 9, a game that cost the Celtics a playoff berth. The passing game, which had Shrine Bowler Derek Racette for a couple of years before he graduated after the 2011 season, will likely need to be improved. Last year, the Celtics combined for 31 of 81 for 461 yards with a 4/8 TD/INT ratio.

Junior Elias Jasso returns after he led the team as a sophomore with 99 carries for 621 yards and five rushing TDs. Eight players had at least one rushing score in 2012; six of them are back this year. Junior Christian Christenson paced Trinity with 11 catches for 247 yards and two TDs. The top two tacklers return, including junior Joey Hale (103 stops).

Trinity committed 21 turnovers and was plus-3 in turnover margin.

Kingman returns plenty of experience for third-year coach Curtis Albin. Quarterback Mitchell Packard, offensive linemen Austin Taylor and Ryan Boroughs and running backs Braxton Bangert and Zach Andersen have all started for two years. The quintet are all seniors.

Taylor was honorable mention all-conference.

Boroughs is a two-year first team all-league linebacker with 117 tackles last year.

Bangert rushed for 900 yards and was honorable mention all-league, while Andersen collected 970 rushing yards. Among juniors, defensive end Brandon Bradshaw enters his third year as a starter. Last fall, the Eagles played the No. 24 strength of schedule in Class 3A and opponents outscored Kingman 297-186. The year before, Kingman played the No. 12 SOS and opponents outscored the Eagles 307-102, according to preppowerindex.com.

The Eagles haven’t made the playoffs since 2005 and haven’t won a postseason game since 2002. Kingman defeated Wichita Sunrise Christian Academy, 52-34, in Week 1 and 29-28 against Halstead in Week 6. Five of the losses came by 16 points or fewer.

Lakin nearly had its eighth playoff berth in the last decade, but lost twice in district, 20-17 to Cimarron, and 34-17 to Holcomb. Against Cimarron in Week 7, Lakin led 17-14 in the fourth quarter, but the Blue Jays scored on a 68-yard pass. The Broncs outgained Cimarron 395-291 in the loss. Lakin had been 7-1 in its previous eight contests against Cimarron with the lone loss coming a 14-8 game in 2010.

Junior Caleb Seeger will return at quarterback after he completed 54 of 116 passes for 864 yards with four touchdowns against seven interceptions. Senior Gage McAtee also returns after he rushed 121 times for 925 yards and 13 scores. Lakin does graduate Ty Adams who rushed 118 times for 921 yards and 14 scores and had 118 tackles and 13 for loss – more than twice any other player.

5-4 in 2012/1-2 in district/3A Heart of America Coach: Brad Hollinger (2nd year, 5-4; 8th overall, 46-27) Assistants: Sean Racette, Mike Miller, Jonathan Burkhart, Jordan Bell, Nick Baldetti Offense: Wing T Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: 23 Returning starters: 8 Offense, 7 Defense Eric Banning, RB, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Chance Clark, LB, 6-2, 190, Sr.; Bishop McKenna, OG, 5-10, 225, Sr.; Jerome Miller, OT/DL, 6-6, 265, Sr.; Spencer Truman, TB/S, 5-10, 165, Sr.; C.J. Watson, DB, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Pierce Billington, DL, 6-0, 245, Jr.; Cole Bredemier, DL, 6-1, 215, Jr.; Christian Christenson, SE/DB, 5-9, 155, Jr.; Michael Doeden, QB, 5-10, 190, Jr.; Joey Hale, C/LB, 6-0, 220, Jr.; Elias Jasso, FB, 5-9, 180, Jr.; Chris Maldonado, DB, 5-7, 160, Jr. Conor Nicholl

2-7 in 2012 / 0-3 in district / 3A Central Kansas League Coach: Curtis Albin (3rd year, 4-14; 10th overall, 40-43) Assistants: Bill Woodward, Mike Wilmott, Justin Reid, George Ontiveros, Robbie Ast Offense: Wishbone Belly Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: 18 Returning starters: 11 Offense, 11 Defense Brant Boswell, LB, 5-10, 154, Sr.; Mitchell Packard, QB/ DB, 6-1, 145, Jr.; Braxton Bangert, RB/LB, 5-8, 148, Jr.; Brandon Bradshaw, TE/DB, 6-4, 175, So.; Nick Meng, TE/DB, 6-0, 175, Sr.; Zach Andersen, FB/S, 6-1, 203, Jr.; Austin Massey, RB/NG, 5-11, 176, Sr.; Kevin Meng, DE, 6-1, 175, Jr. Drew Trollope, T/DE, 6-0, 183, Sr.; Ryan Boroughs, G/LB, 6-0, 195, Jr.; Nathan Wilson, OT/DT, 6-0, 205, Jr.; Ryan Ybarra, C, 5-11, 265, Jr.; Tyler Beat, OT, 6-2, 187, Jr. Conor Nicholl

LYONS LIONS Lyons never scored more than 20 points in coach James Johnston’s first season with the Lions after a long and successful career with South Barber. The Lions still managed to beat Sterling, 13-12, a team that reached the second round of the playoffs. As well, Lyons defeated Southeast of Saline 13-0 in Week 8. The Lions last made the playoffs in 2009 and their last playoff victory was a 32-27 first round victory against Phillipsburg in 2008.

Lyons has won four postseason games in school history (08, 96, 95 and 85) but have never made it past the second round.

Senior quarterback/defensive back Ryan McClure is among the five offensive starters and four defensive starters back for Lyons.

“We want to win more games and make the

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LEON-BLUESTEM LIONS

Leon-Bluestem has struggled for many years and ended a 29-game losing streak with a 29-0 shutout victory of Wichita Independent in 2011.

That started a three-game winning streak and the first playoff berth in school history. Prior to the win against Wichita Independent, the Lions had lost 69 straight contests. The Lions followed up the Independent victory with a 25-6 win against Eureka and a 20-12 victory versus Fredonia. After a 42-13 loss to Neodesha, the Lions ended the season with a 64-0 playoff loss to Caney Valley.

Last year, the Lions defeated Medicine Lodge, 12-0, in Week 2 for the season’s lone victory.

That marked Bluestem’s only game within 22 points.

Third-year coach Kyle Wallis, a graduate assistant strength coach at TCU from 2003-05, then the assistant strength coach at TCU from 5-4 in 2012 / 1-2 in district / 3A 2005-08, before he was head coach at Wichita Hi-Plains League Independent in 2009-10.

Coach: Jeff Fuss (7th year, 39-26; 23rd year, 125-98) “We return a lot of experience off of a very Assistants: Paul Grilliot, Blain White, Matt Shultz, young 2012 team,” he said. “Continuing to Garrett Panzer, TJ Meyer mature and growing as a team will be a key Offense: Wing-T Defense: 4-2-5 components to us succeeding in 2013.”

Returning lettermen: 18 Returning starters: 7 Offense, 7 Defense Among returners, junior linebacker Cooper Gage McAtee, RB/LB, 5-8, 170, Sr.; Brennan Fuss, TE/ Minnick was an honorable mention all-league LB, 6-0, 175, Sr.; Robert Aparicio, DB, 5-9, 155, Sr.; linebacker, senior Aaron Wolfe was an honorCaleb Seeger, QB, 6-0, 180, Jr.; Brent Rooney, OT, 6-1, able mention all-league wideout, senior Brett 205, Sr.; Hunter Kennedy, OG/LB, 5-10, 180, Jr.; Jared Elsen was an honorable mention all-league Burrows, OG/DL, 5-9, 195, Sr.; Javier Esquivel, DE, 6-3, linebacker and junior John Stiger was honorable 220, Sr.; Clayton Eggelston, DE, 6-1, 205, Sr. Conor Nicholl mention at defensive back.

1-8 in 2012 / 0-3 in district / 3A Central Plains League Coach: Kyle Wallis (3rd year, 4-15) Assistants: Phil Keys, Matt Bruner, Robbie Chandler, Kelley Sayahnejad, Brandon Chinn Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: 23 Returning starters: 9 Offense, 9 Defense Cooper Minnick, RB/LB, 5-9, 175, Jr.; Adam Wolfe, WR/ DB, 5-10, 160, Sr.; Brett Elsen, WR/LB, 6-1, 185, Sr.; John Stiger, QB/DB, 5-10, 165, Jr.; Dylan Emmons, WR/ DB, 6-1, 165, Sr.; Logan Haworth, OL/DL, 6-0, 240, Sr. Conor Nicholl

MARION WARRIORS

playoffs,” Johnston said. “We have a small senior class, the junior class really needs to step up.”

Marion returns plenty of offensive talent, but will likely need to improve its defense to post a winning record and again make the postseason.

The Warriors allowed 39 or more points six 2-7 in 2012 / 1-2 in district / 3A times and went 0-6 in those contests, including Central Kansas League a 49-14 first round playoff loss to Garden Plain.

Coach: James Johnston (2nd year, 2-7; 25th overall, Marion brings back four all-league players 157-94) with quarterback Taylor Heidebrecht, linemen Assistants: Brian Friess. David Wray. B.J. Smith Morgan Wheeler and James Nordquist and Offense: Multiple Defense: Multiple defensive back James Jones. Thierolf said Returning lettermen: 18 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 4 Defense Heidebrecht is an experienced quarterback who Ryan McClure, QB/DB, 6-0, 180, Sr.; Angel Holguin, Marion expects “to have another great year.”

WR/DB, 5-9, 165, Sr.; Alan Pina, OL/DL, 6-1, 190, Sr.; Zach Robson will play wideout and also has Jonathan Ortiz, OL, 5-8, 250, Jr.; Mitchell Vincent, OL, experience at quarterback.

5-9, 165, Jr.; Grady Kirkhart, TE/DE, 6-3, 190, Jr. “James Jones will be a big body for us at WR Conor Nicholl who can run very well and catch the ball in traffic,” Thierolf said. “Zach Robson, Jacob Baldwin, and Grif Case will line up opposite of James and provide experience and size at the other wide receiver position. Our offensive line should be as athletic a group as any we have had. Morgan Wheeler, John Nordquist, and Nick Meyer all started last year and all three

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were very good for us. We look for them to improve this year.”

Defensively, Wheeler, Nordquist and Meyer will anchor the line for a unit that Theirolf wants to be more aggressive and fly to the ball faster. Thierolf expects Jones to be able to match up against “just about any” wideout.

“We are very optimistic going into the season and look forward to the first day of practice.”

4-6 in 2012 / 2-1 in district / 3A Heart of America Coach: Grant Thierolf (26th year, 148-90) Assistants: Jerry Smith, Shaun Craft, Mark Meyer Offense: Option Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 7 Offense, 7 Defense Taylor Heidebrecht, QB, 5-10, 155, Sr.; Caleb Williams, SB/LB, 5-8, 189, Sr.; Grif Case, WR, 6-1, 187, Sr.; James Jones, WR, 6-3, 192, Sr.; Nick Meyer, OG/DT, 6-3, 248, Sr.; Morgan Wheeler, OG/DE, 6-2, 238, Sr.; John Nordquist, C/DE, 5-11, 199, Sr.; Kyle Palic, LB, 6-1, 187, So.; Trevor Kruse, LB, 5-8, 175, Jr.; James Jones, CB, 6-3, 182, Jr. Conor Nicholl

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Marysville continued a big fall from the Class 3A elite and will have its third coach in as many years this season. Dustin Heuer, formerly the freshman football coach and head track coach in Crete, Neb., takes over a program that went 10-2 in 2008, 11-2 in 2009, 5-5 in 2010, 3-6 in 2011 and bottomed out with an 0-9 record last fall. Opponents outscored the Bulldogs 370-95 and had just two games within 16 points, and none within 14.

Heuer, a Hanover graduate, has set a goal to create a competitive culture. He has been impressed with the work ethic and desire of the team in the summer. His primary goal is to improve fundamentally from last season.

“We have to take care of the football and make the most of the opportunities that opposition provides for us,” he said. “It will be a bit of a ‘learn on the go’ experience for everyone involved but ultimately our goal is to win our district and participate in the postseason.”

Heuer is well aware of Marysville’s football tradition and wants a commitment “from everyone to return to that level.”

“To be successful, we have to be unselfish,” he said. “Each individual, coaches included, will need to put the team first and believe in the system. We will emphasize ball security and clock management, as well as sound tackling and more of an attacking mindset on defense.

Increasing our level of competitiveness is the first step towards improvement, eventually the scoreboard will take care of itself.”

Minneapolis has had several major up and down swings in the last six years. The Lions went 3-8 in 2006, then finished 8-3 in 2007, and 3-7 in 2008. Then, the Lions went 7-4 in 2009, 2-7 in 2011 and 3-6 last year. This fall, coach Jeff Giles will again face a difficult schedule, including a Class 3A district that includes Beloit, Norton and Phillipsburg. Last year, Minneapolis played the No. 8-hardest strength of schedule in the classification, according to preppowerindex.com. Minneapolis started 3-1, but finished 0-5. Opponents outscored the Lions 259-159. Minneapolis graduated its top seven tacklers, but returns senior wideout Jeremiah Friend, who caught 32 passes for 403 yards and four TDs and collected first team all-league honors. Junior quarterback Josh Macy started at wideout last year and had 141 receiving yards, with 22 tackles, two pass breakups and an interception.

“We will have a young team, but it is a team with some talent,” Giles said. “We should have some very good skill players and should have some linemen who are improving.”

Moundridge had its streak of nine straight playoff appearances snapped last year with a 1-8 record and 0-3 in district play. The Wildcats have played 15 playoff games since 2000, but haven’t made it past the second round since it reached the sub-state championship game in 1990 and ’91 where it lost to Atwood both times.

Head coach Courtney Moddlemog has not posted a winning record in his first four years with Moundridge. After having a young, small team last year, Moddelmog has 10 returning seniors with starting experience. Three of the returning starters are above 200 pounds. Last year, Moundridge returned just one player over 200 pounds. Moddelmog said the team must get stronger in the weight room, play with a better pad level and “we must get better at tackling.”

“Our seniors need to lead,” Moddelmog said.

“The number one goal is to improve and like always we want to make the playoffs.”

Moundridge’s only victory came in a 45-26 Week 5 victory against Remington. Then, it lost the final four games by at least 27 points a contest. In district, Moundridge was outscored 55-0, 48-21 and 41-6 by Hillsboro, Halstead and Marion, respectively.

Two years ago, Norton had a young and inexperienced team and slipped to 3-6, the first losing season in 17 years and the first time missing the playoffs since 1999. Last year, the Bluejays had a senior-laden group, enjoyed a four-win improvement, won the Mid-Continent League championship with a Week 9 victory against Phillipsburg and then lost to Sacred Heart in the first round of the playoffs. Norton outscored opponents 260-179; the previous year, opponents outscored the Bluejays 262-221.

This year, veteran coach Lucas Melvin again has a young group with two offensive and three defensive returning starters. Melvin again has the same goals, winning league and making the playoffs.

“Working hard this summer and having young men step up and be leaders,” Melvin said of the team’s keys.

Norton will need to find replacements for Shrine Bowler Jacob Brooks (1,115 rushing, 11 rushing TDs, 305 receiving yards, four receiving TDs), and quarterback Dalton Miller (1,039 passing yards, 13/5 TD/INT). The Bluejays graduated its top seven tacklers, senior Cole Renner has the most among returners with 40. Senior Tanner Furbush had some solid games last year and finished with 42 carries for 160 yards and three scores – two against Smith Center in Week 1 and one versus Phillipsburg.

Senior Austin Hager is one of Kansas’ top kickers with 21 extra points and six field goals.

0-9 in 2012 / 0-3 in district / 3A North Central Kansas League Coach: Dustin Heuer (1st year) Assistants: Ross Wright, Tom Knott, Landon Wright, Rob Peschel, James Campbell, Trent Griffin Offense: Multiple Defense: Multiple Returning lettermen: 21 Returning starters: 2 Offense, 5 Defense David Heck, LB, 6-0, 155, Jr.; Josh Nelsen, LB, 6-2, 175, Jr.; Tommy McNish, DL, 6-3, 230, Jr.; Scott Kleinert, OL, 6-2, 250, Jr.; Cody Svoboda, OL, 6-4, 230, Jr.; Jakub Curtis, DL, 6-3, 250, Jr.; Jacob Nelsen, DB, 6-2, 170, Jr. Conor Nicholl

3-6 in 2012 / 0-3 in district / 3A North Central Activities Association Coach: Jeff Giles (3rd year, 27th overall) Assistants: Bret Lange, Brian Holloway Offense: Wing T Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: 13 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 3 Defense Josh Macy, QB/WR/CB, Jr.; Jeremiah Friend, WR, Sr.; Jacob Griffith, C, Sr.; Quentin Clark, G/DT, Gage Mortimer, LB Conor Nicholl

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PHILLIPSBURG PANTHERS Phillipsburg had two Division I signees in quarterback/safety Sean Newlan (Kansas State) and kicker Justin Juenemann (Minnesota).

However, the Panthers fell late to Beloit, 3227, in Week 7 and then lost in heartbreaking fashion, 20-7, at home to rival Norton in Week 9, and missed the playoffs at 7-2. This season, the Panthers still return several talented players, especially in the backfield. Riley Juenemann went 4-0 as the starting quarterback when Newlan was hurt last fall and will take over full time under center. Running backs Michael Dusin and Hunter Kohler were second team all-league.

Lineman Seth Boswell was second team allleague and Luke Jacobs was honorable mention all-league. The team did graduate 14 players, including ends/defensive backs Seth Derr and Tad Thompson, both expected to play at Bethany College. Phillipsburg is expected to have smaller numbers than in the past because of two small classes currently in the high school.

“Athletically, we feel like we will match up

PITTSBURG-ST. MARYS COLGAN PANTHERS

The St. Mary’s-Colgan Panthers fared well in the program’s first season at the Class 3A level, finishing 8-4 and advancing to the state quarterfinals. Colgan hopes to take another step forward in 2013.

However, the Panthers must do so without a lot of their offensive weapons from 2012.

Colgan graduated its leading passer in quarterback Dyson Dechant (1,585 yards, 12 TDs), its leading rusher in tailback Conner Dayton (1,482 yards, 15 TDs) and its leading receiver in Nate 7-2 in 2012 / 2-1 in district / 3A Grimaldi (22 receptions, 370 yards, 4 TDs).

Mid-Continent League “We have a good group of starters coming Coach: J.B. Covington (11th year, 67-31; 107-54, 17th back,” Colgan coach Chuck Smith said. “Like overall) most teams, we will be thin on the line. The Assistants: Joe Buresh, Cory Jacobs, Andy Kenney quarterback spot is wide open with good comOffense: Pistol Flex Bone Defense: 4-3 petition. We will play a good schedule.”

Returning lettermen: 13 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 5 Defense On offense, Colgan returns tight ends Drew Michael Dusin, RB/LB, 5-9, 160, Sr.; Hunter Kohler, RB/ Casey and Aaron Twarog. Offensive tackle DB, 5-10, 180, Sr.; Grant Wickham, RB/DB, 6-3, 205, Riley Wood is the lone returning starter to the Sr.; Seth Boswell, OL/LB, 6-2, 210, Sr.; Luke Jacobs, OL, 6-6, 205, Jr.; Riley Juenemann, QB, 5-8, 140, Sr.; Andrew offensive line. Colton Gilbert returns at slotMakings, DL, 5-11, 185, Sr. Conor Nicholl back, and Christian Cedeno returns after seeing

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7-3 in 2012 / 2-1 in district / 3A Mid-Continent League Coach: Lucas Melvin (8th year, 51-23) Assistants: Tony Fiscus, Jeremy Hawks, Ben Gordon Offense: I Defense: Multiple Returning lettermen: 16 Returning starters: 2 Offense, 3 Defense Cole Renner, OL/DE, 6-0, 19, Sr.; Wyatt Harting, OL/ DL, 6-2, 200, Jr.; Stewart Whitney, RB/DL, 5-8, 180, Jr.; Austin Hager, RB/DB/K, 5-9, 160, Sr. Conor Nicholl

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well to the teams on our schedule,” coach J.B. Covington said. “Our overall team speed is very good. Leadership should be a team strength with this group. Our lineman are big but young so their development will be a big key for us. This group seems to be very motivated to perform up to the standards that our past teams have set. We have a lot of players moving up from our JV that we expect to make significant contributions.”

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1-8 in 2012 / 0-3 in district / 3A Heart of America Coach: Courtney Moddelmog (5th year, 13-27) Assistants: Bret Lange, Scott Jones Offense: Wing-T Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: 14 Returning starters: 10 Offense, 9 Defense Garrett Higgins, QB/DE, 6-2, 190, Sr.; Matt Castor, RB/ LB, 5-8, 175, Sr.; Colby Badman, RB/FS, 5-9, 155, Sr.; Kyle Huxman, TE/DE, 6-0, 185, Sr.; Seth Diederich, OT, 6-2, 210, Sr.; Corey Barton, OT, 6-0, 240, Sr.; Javin Foth, RB/OLB, 5-8, 150, Sr.; Garrett Smith, C, 5-10, 185, Sr.; Bryer Thiesen, OG/DT, 5-11, 180, Sr.; Trenton Olson, DT, 5-10, 230, So.; Hunter Enyart, SE/DB, 6-3, 180, Sr.; Deshawn Pfieff, LB, 5-10, 175, Jr. Conor Nicholl

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The Panthers return seven starters on defense, including second-team all-league defensive back Luke Marquardt. Free safety Drew Dawson, Tucker Hoffman and Gilbert also return to the secondary. Cedeno and Austin Commons form a strong corps of linebackers. Nolan Higginbotham is back at defensive tackle after registering 49 tackles in 2012.

8-4 in 2012/ 2-1 in district/ 3A Crawford-Neosho-Cherokee League Coach: Chuck Smith (34th year, 308-61; 35th overall, 311-67) Assistants: Wayne Cichon, Kyle Wolf, Brad Snow, Nick Humble, Virgil Winn Offense: I-formation Defense: 5-2 Returning lettermen: 14 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 7 Defense Drew Casey, TE, Sr.; Christian Cedeno, FB/LB, Sr.; Aaron Twarog, TE, Sr.; Riley Wood, OT, Sr.; Colton Gilbert, SB/CB, Sr.; Drew Dawson, FS, Sr.; Nolan Higginbotham, DT, Sr.; Tucker Hoffman, CB, Sr.; Luke Marquardt, SS, Sr.; Austin Commons, LB, Jr. Mark Schremmer

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While the Monarchs struggled last year, some of the off-the-field aspects have improved. TMP added junior high football for the first time last fall. Montgomery has seen a numbers increase in the weight room. The 2013 pre-summer maxes, including incoming freshmen, were already ahead of the maxes from the previous season in squat, bench, clean, 40-yard dash and vertical jump.

“One of the things that we are starting to see as a school is that we are starting to get more guys that are falling into that mold, that are realizing the importance of the weight room and how that transfers not only onto the football field, but all the other sports as well that they participate in,” Montgomery said.

Montgomery said Moore “is closing in on being the guy to beat” in the weight room.¬†Moore is five pounds away from the clean mark and around 25 pounds away from the bench record.

“If you are not strong and explosive in football, those are key parts of your game, especially if you are a lineman,” Moore said. “Like me, I play nose and tackle, you need that strength to succeed when it counts in the game.”

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Riley County has perennially reached the playoffs under longtime coach Steve Wagner, who has averaged seven victories a year in his first 29 seasons leading the Falcons. Riley County has made the state championship game twice, falling to Victoria in 1988 and to Stockton in 1993. However, the Falcons haven’t made it past the second round since 1996. Its last playoff victory came in 2009. Last year, the Falcons went 5-5 and lost 28-0 to Sabetha in the first round.

Riley County has struggled against the elite Class 3A teams in its area. The Falcons are 0-12 since 2004 against Silver Lake; just three games are within 14 points. Riley County is 2-4 in its last six meetings against Rossville.

The Falcons will graduate Bryce Chavis, a four-year starter at quarterback and Shrine Bowl selection, who contributed 2,476 yards of total offense and 21 scores (1,317 rushing, 15 scores). Chavis was first team Class 3A and signed with Butler County Community College.

Jon Maddox, an honorable mention all-state defensive lineman, also graduated.

Junior Josh Brazzle was all-league at fullback and linebacker. Senior Jacoby Roeser was all-league at defensive end. Senior Ian Eastes returns after he earned honorable mention all-league running back. Landin Griffith was honorable mention all-league at wideout.

“Gain experience at QB, O-line, D-line,” Wagner listed as keys for the season.

Riverton coach Derrick Rider says hard work will be the key to his Rams returning to the Class 3A playoffs.

The Rams finished 5-4 overall and 1-2 in the district, falling to rival Galena in the season’s final game.

“Our goal is to make every effort to be the best that we can be,” Rider said. “The way we prepare will have the biggest impact on how our season goes. We simply want to enjoy each day and the opportunities that we have to compete and make ourselves better.

“We need to improve throughout the summer.

We will be young in a few positions, but I have a lot of confidence that all our players will work hard to get themselves ready for the season.

We have a great group of players returning that will provide excellent leadership for our team.

Their leadership will be essential to our success this season.”

Riverton’s leadership begins with six starters returning on each side of the ball.

The Rams bring back a pair of all-league performers to the passing game in quarterback Chandler Underhill and receiver Landon North.

They should have good blocking up front with three starting offensive linemen and a tight end back in Malachi Bain, T.J. McDonald, Austin Brown and Jacob Qualls.

Riverton’s returns three linebackers in Qualls, Underhill and Gavin Forbes¸as well as defensive linemen Bain and McDonald and North to the secondary.

Chuck Bisbee, formerly the head coach at Fairfield and Solomon, takes over one of the state’s more struggling 11-man programs.

Russell went 1-8 last year and finished the season with under 20 players. The Broncos went through coaching changes in virtually every sport in the offseason, including athletic director, football and boys’ basketball. Dave King stepped aside in late spring to become an assistant.

Bisbee said the team goals are to reach the playoffs and then “find a way to win a couple games.” Last year, opponents outscored Russell 421-128. The Broncos finished last in Class 3A in scoring defense, according to preppowerindex.com. The team allowed a school record for points in an 84-0 loss to Beloit in Week 3. The lone victory came against Republic County, 42-14, in Week 4. King went 22-42 with the Broncos, but did lead Russell to a playoff appearance in 2006, the program’s second playoff berth since the ‘70s.

Senior fullback Keltonn Morris finished with 83 carries and 312 yards, each second-best on the squad. Chase Prester led the team with three INTs and was second with 55 tackles.

“We’ve got to find a way to get the numbers up,” Bisbee said. “Going to have to be very focused on the offense and defensive schemes changing. Simplicity will be key. If we can get numbers up we have a chance to get it rolling pretty quick.”

Sabetha delivered a 28-8 first round playoff victory against Riley County to end a threegame losing streak in the first round. However, the win was overshadowed because of news that Tim Edelman, the father of Bluejay sophomore Alex Edelman, passed away after he collapsed on the track at Riley County’s field before the playoff game. Tim Edelman had been a longtime filmer for the Sabetha football team. In the second round, Sabetha had to drive 72 yards for a score and tied the game on the subsequent 2-point conversion. In overtime, the Bluejays went for two and the win, but couldn’t convert and lost 28-27, to Rossville.

“This group wasn’t satisfied with just making the playoffs but ran into a ‘life situation’ that is much more important than a football game and came out on top,” coach Garrett Michael said.

“That is why faith and family are much more important than what we are doing here.”

This year, the Bluejays bring back seven offensive and eight defensive starters for a veteran coaching staff where every coach has served at least 12 years, including 17 for Michael.

Michael said the main key will be the offensive line. Defensively, the squad allowed 21 or fewer points in nine of 11 games, including a month stretch where it permitted just 19 combined points.

“We return a good nucleus of players who developed experience throughout the year last year. Our offense has to take the experience and use that to play more consistently,” Michael said. “A focus will be put on continuing our ball control and lack of penalties but executing more efficiently in the red zone. A tone needs to be set by the offensive line and they need to go to the next level of development.”

5-5 in 2012 / 3-0 in district / 3A Mid-East League Coach: Steve Wagner (30th year, 206-92) Assistants: Harold Oliver, Travis Havenstein, Derek Winter, Erik Willimon Offense: Spread Defense: Multiple Returning lettermen: 12 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 7 Defense Ian Eastes, RB, 175, Sr.; Trace Nelson, FL/CB, 165, Jr.; Landin Griffith, WR,/OLB 175, Sr.; Jacoby Roeser, OL/ DE, 185, Sr.; Josh Brazzle, FB/LB, 200, Jr.; Gavin Grater, LB, 185, Sr.; Hunter Loewen, OLB, 180, So. Conor Nicholl

5-4 in 2012 / 1-2 in district / 3A Crawford-Neosho-Cherokee League Coach: Derrick Rider (4th year, 17-11) Assistants: Brian Mitchell, Chris Swartz, Danny Weaver Offense: Spread Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: 20 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Malachi Bain, OL/DL, 5-10, 235, Sr.; T.J. McDonald, OL/ DL, 5-11, 192, Sr.; Jacob Qualls, TE/LB, 6-2, 179, Sr.; Chandler Underhill, QB/LB, 5-11, 180, Sr.; Landon North, WR/DB, 5-9, 152, Jr.; Austin Brown, OL, 6-2, 239, So.; Gavin Forbes, LB, 5-10, 170, Jr. Mark Schremmer

1-8 in 2012 / 0-3 in district / 3A North Central Activities Association Coach: Chuck Bisbee (1st year, 6th overall, 28-30) Assistants: Dave King, Jeff Brull Offense: N/A Defense: Odd Front Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Alex Baldwin, QB/DB, 5-7, 135, Sr.; Reshean Holloway, RB/LB, 6-0, 165, So.; Keltonn Morris, FB/LB, 5-10, 180, Sr.; Chase Prester, RB/DB, 5-8, 155, So.; Joey Oste, OL/ LB, 5-9, 180, Sr.; Eric Rourke, TE/DL, 6-2, 190, Sr. Conor Nicholl

SALINA-SACRED HEART KNIGHTS Sacred Heart has posted four straight undefeated district seasons under coach Bruce Graber.

However, the Knights haven’t advanced deep into the playoffs. Sacred Heart lost in the first round in Graber’s first two years. Last year, the Knights beat Norton 21-19 in the first round and then lost 55-7 to eventual champion Scott City in the second round.

The Knights have now played 16 playoff games since 2002, but have advanced past the second round just one time, in 2006.

Graber listed staying healthy and improving each week as the team’s keys and listed several goals.

“Become a more physical team,” Graber said.

“Compete for a league title. Make the playoffs.

Get past second round of playoffs.”

Senior quarterback Nick Wuthnow is one of Kansas’ top football players. Last year, he completed 78 of 154 passes for 1,526 yards with an 18/4 TD/INT ratio. He also rushed 88 times for 593 yards. As a sophomore, Wuthnow

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Kicker Tymony Bonilla is also one of the state’s best. He averaged 49 yards per kickoff, went 52 of 58 on extra points and made a 20-yard field goal in his only attempt.

9-2 in 2012 / 3-0 in district / 3A North Central Activities Association Coach: Bruce Graber (4th year, 20-11; 23rd overall) Assistants: Bob Butts, John Webb, Steven Baker Offense: Multiple Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 25 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 8 Defense Nick Wuthnow, QB/LB, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Tate Richards, TE, 5-11, 180, Sr.; Austin Kack, C, 6-0, 165, Jr.; Elijah Walters, OT, 5-10, 220, Sr.; Drew Gormley, OT, 6-1, 230, Jr.; Trevor Webb, LB, 6-0, 175, Sr.; Kane Comfort, CB, 5-11, 155, Sr.; Kyler Stover, SS, 5-6, 140, Sr.; Josh Dolan, LB, 5-7, 170, Jr.; Justin McCartney, SS/FS, 5-7, 145, Jr.; Clayton Wetter, LB, 6-1, 185, Sr.; Austin Palen, DE, 6-3, 175, Sr.; Tymony Bonilla, 5-11, 165, Sr. Conor Nicholl

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5-6 in 2012 / 2-1 in district / 3A Big 7 League Coach: Garrett Michael (5th year, 16-25) Assistants: Nathan Bauman, Matt Garber, Doug Leiker, Alex McAfee, Dave Remmers Offense: N/A Defense: N/A Returning lettermen: 26 Returning starters: 7 Offense, 8 Defense Brandon Harrell, TE/LB, 5-11, 190, Sr.; Gaven Schumann, QB/DB, 6-3, 175, Sr.; Michael Baumgartner, RB/DB, 6-0, 185, Sr.; Mateo Kirwan, OL/DE, 6-2, 200, Sr.; Sam Hughes, OL/DL, 6-0, 220, Sr.; Jacob Frey, WR/ DB, 6-1, 165, Sr.; Jacob Leuthold, OL/DL, 6-3, 260, Jr.; Kegan Schumann, RB/LB, 5-11, 180, Jr.; Alex Edelman, WR/DB, 5-11, 160, Jr.; Brett Plattner, RB/DB, 5-11, 170, Jr.; Treavor Schmelzle, TE/LB, 5-11, 170, Jr.; Alec Kirwan, OL/DL/K, 6-2, 220, So. Conor Nicholl

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

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Scott City had enjoyed tremendous success under coach Glenn O’Neil, entering his 18th season with the program and seventh as head coach. However, the Beavers consistently suffered close losses deep in the postseason the past few falls. Last year, though, the Beavers broke through with a 14-0 record and won the school’s first football championship since 1991 and fourth in school history. As well, many of the players help Scott City become the first program to win three straight Class 3A boys’ basketball titles.

This year, the Beavers bring back three offensive and four defensive starters from a team that outscored opponents 638-122 and led 3A in scoring defense.

Trey O’Neil, the coach’s son, is the lone player back who started both ways, and will take over for his brother, Brett, at quarterback.

Senior Warren Kropp returns after he had 88 tackles (15 TFLs), while senior Tius Price had 63 tackles (14 for loss) and O’Neil picked off four passes. Many of the first-year starters played in 10 games last year as backups.

Coach O’Neil has several goals for the team: “represent community with class and the reputation of a team that we will play hard, good role models for the younger students in our district with the way that we carry ourselves on the football field and in the classroom. The third goal is to improve each and everyday so that we can make a run in the playoffs.”

Sedgwick has posted a winning season every year since 2006 and went 10-1 and 10-2 the last two seasons. The Cardinals have ran a very effective spread offense that has churned out several elite quarterbacks, including Trent Stucky, Brylie Ware and Logan Thompson.

Last year, the Cardinals ranked sixth in Class 3A in scoring offense with 490 points. In 2010, Sedgwick scored 382 points and ranked 11th in the classification. Last year, Ware started five games as a sophomore before he hurt his knee and completed 70 of 131 passes for 1,104 yards with a 9/5 TD/INT ratio. Then, Thompson stepped in as a senior and completed 71 of 128 passes for 936 yards with a 13/6 TD/INT ratio. Thompson, an all-state and Shrine Bowl selection, rushed 144 times for 1,295 yards and 22 scores. He also led the squad with 22 catches for 461 yards and seven TDS. Dalton Brandt is back after he rushed 207 times for 1,724 yards and 21 scores. Greer Chandler (19 catches, 133 yards, 1 TD) will share time in the backfield and at wide receiver.

He is one of seven players who caught at least one pass for a team that won the first regional football title in school history.

Defensively, Sedgwick brings back six starters, mostly at linebacker. All-league defensive lineman Christian Teufel paces a strong group of defensive linemen. The team is expecting more than 50 players. Coach Jeff Werner is concerned about a tough early schedule, replacing production from the wideout and defensive back group and the special teams.

“Difficult games early in the season is a concern,” Werner said. “The development of the offensive line and defensive line will be key. “

Coach C.J. Hamilton’s preseason information sheet lists Silver Lake’s many accomplishments in a 38-year tenure that has produced a Kansas record 357 victories. Silver Lake is 83-23 in the playoffs and has won seven state championships: 1981, ’84, ’89, ’91, ’97, ’06 and ’10.

They’ve also finished runner-up 10 times: ’80, ’95, ’02-’05, ’07-08, ’11-12. Silver Lake has won 33 conference championships and every year since 2004. The Eagles have made 10 of the last 11 state championship games and have sent 27 players to college programs.

Last year, the Eagles had the lead, but lost 28-21 to Scott City in the state championship.

It outscored opponents by an average margin of 46-9 and averaged 222 rushing yards and 176 passing yards, while allowing 115 passing and 74 rushing yards a game.

Senior Johnathan Dallman returns after he was an all-state selection and finished first team allleague on offense. Quarterback Dailin Kruger is back after he completed 94 of 180 passes for 1,872 yards with a 28/6 TD/INT ratio and rushed 113 times for 1,082 yards and 18 scores.

Silver Lake graduated its top five receivers. Seniors Dallman, Thomas Knudsen and Braeden Lockhart will anchor the offensive line.

On defense, Colbe Austin is back after he finished with 11 sacks and was first team all-league. Defensive tackle Jacob Ridder and ends Dallman and Dawson DeShazo return, too. Hamilton expects to have “great depth” in the secondary with Ryan Matzke (team-high 13 pass breakups), Chayse Saia (team-high five INTs, seven pass breakups) and Cody Renfro (four INTs).

Rock Creek has enjoyed a strong tradition under coach Mike Beam. The Mustangs reached the Class 3A sub-state championship game in 2000, and made the second round from 200207. In 2008, Rock Creek lost in the quarterfinals. In 2009, Rock Creek lost in the first round.

After a rare miss in 2010, the Mustangs made it back to the semifinals in 2011 where it lost to Silver Lake, 14-13. The semifinal runs in 2000 and ’11 are the deepest playoff trips in school history.

Last year, Rock Creek had a four-win dropoff from 9-4 to 5-4. Still, the season brought many exciting moments, including a 28-27 Week 1 victory against Wamego when Brandon Lutgen caught a 47-yard last-second pass. In Week 3, Rock Creek defeated St. Marys 43-36 when Jimmie Goodmiller caught a five-yard TD pass with 28 seconds to go.

Rock Creek, though, has had problems against longtime state powers Silver Lake and Rossville, also members of the Mid-East league.

The Mustangs are 1-11 in their last 12 games against Silver Lake with the lone victory a 20-7 win in 2004. As well, Rock Creek is 3-9 against Rossville in the last 12 meetings and has lost three out of the last four.

Coach Beam would like to “compete hard every game and improve each game.” Senior Brett Hammett, a Marysville transfer before last season, competed 28 of 46 passes for 410 yards with a 4/4 TD/INT ratio. Rock Creek graduated its top four rushers and seven receivers.

“We will be young in a lot of different spots on offense, defense and special teams,” Beam said of the team’s keys. “Our guys will have to play hard and try to keep mistakes to a minimum.”

14-0 in 2012 / 3-0 in district / 3A Greater West Activities Conference Coach: Glenn O’Neil (7th year, 63-10) Assistants: Jim Turner, Landon Frank, Brian Gentry, Josh Burnett Offense: Wing T Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: 25 Returning starters: 3 Offense, 4 Defense Keigun Wells, C/ILB, 6-0, 210, Sr.; Wyatt Eitel, G/ILB, 5-10, 205, Jr.; Trey O’Neil, WR(QB)/CB, 6-2, 175, Jr.; Warren Kropp, TE/DE, 6-0, 190, Sr.; Chris Pounds, WR/ OLB, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Paco Banda, FB/DE, 5-7, 195, Sr. Conor Nicholl

10-2 in 2012 / 3-0 in district / 3A Heart of America Coach: Jeff Werner (8th year, 48-22) Assistants: Tobe Wallace, Doug Mabry, Jeremy Liby Offense: Spread No Huddle Defense: 3-5-3 Returning lettermen: 19 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 6 Defense Dalton Brandt, RB/LB, 5-9, 180, Sr.; Trey Tucker, OL/DE, 6-0, 225, Sr.; Greer Chandler, RB/OLB, 5-10, 180, Sr.; Brylie Ware, QB/DB, 5-11, 195, Jr.; Luke Brennis, WR/ OLB, 5-10, 170, Sr.; Christian Teufel, DE, 5-10, 225, Sr.; Phil Williams, OL/DE, 5-10, 210, Sr.; Colby Weber, WR/ CB, 5-9, 155, Sr.; Tanner Liby, WR/DB, 6-2, 165, Sr.; Cameron Fields, WR/LB, 6-2, 175, Sr. Conor Nicholl

WATHENA-RIVERSIDE CYCLONES Riverside, a consolidation of Wathena and Elwood, has played very well in its first two years of existence. In its first season, the Cyclones went 9-2 and lost to eventual Class 2-1A state champion Centralia.

Last year, the program moved up to Class 3A and went 7-2, but missed the playoffs because of two district losses, a 7-0 defeat at Sabetha in Week 7 and a 40-20 loss to Hiawatha in Week 8.

Third-year coach Scot Koranda has set goals to win districts and make the playoffs. Riverside played the No. 55 schedule out of the 64 Class 3A teams and outscored opponents 202-138, according to preppowerindex.com, In 2011, the Cyclones outscored opponents 385-203. Junior quarterback Andrae McGaughy completed 59 of 112 passes for 915 yards with a 9/2 TD/INT ratio, including a 95-yard score. The Wildcats return their top three rushers, including McGaughy who led the team with 135 rushes for 840 yards and was second with six rushing

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TDs. Zach Halter also returns after he collected a team-high 101 tackles.

“Good blocking, great tackling, ball security,” Koranda said of the team goals. “Should be fairly decent offensively, have a few holes to fill on defense. Have kicker and punter and great returner back for special teams.”

7-2 in 2012 / 1-2 in district / 3A Delaware Valley League Coach: Scot Koranda (3rd year, 16-4; 21st overall) Assistants: Jonathan Winder, Colin McQuillan, Garrett McDowell Offense: Spread-Shotgun Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: 12 Returning starters: 7 Offense, 7 Defense Zach Halter, RG/ILB, 5-10, 220, Sr.; Dakota Pummell, Slot/FS, 5-8, 145, Sr.; Drew Hoffman, RB/OLB, 5-11, 175, Sr.; Alex Davidson, TE/DE, 6-3, 200, Sr.; Andrae McGaughy, QB/CB, 5-10, 145, Jr.; Cody Walker, LT, 5-11, 240, Sr.; Phoenix Keller, RT, 6-2, 255, Jr.; Britain Wendt, NG, 5-7, 170, Sr.; Mason McCall, CB, 5-8, 140, Jr. Conor Nicholl

13-1 in 2012 / 3-0 in district / 3A Mid-East League Coach: C.J. Hamilton (38th year, 357-84) Assistants: Warren Bledsoe, Mark Workman, Loren Ziegler, Mike VandeVelde Offense: Offset I/One-back Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 22 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 8 Defense Dailin Kruger, QB, 5-9, 160, Sr.; Thomas Knudsen, OT, 6-0, 230, Sr.; Johnathan Dallman, OT/DE, 6-0, 215, Sr.; Dawson Deshazo, WR, 6-2, 195, Sr.; Brendan Vega, WR, 6-2, 175, Sr.; Isaac Pridey, SB, 5-10, 170, Sr.; Colbie Austin, DE, 6-0, 240, Sr.; Chayse Saia, CB, 6-0, 160, Sr.; Zach Boyd, LB, 5-8, 170, Jr.; Caleb Kern, LB, 5-8, 160, Jr.; Jace Freeman, S, 5-11, 165, Jr.; Ryan Matzke, S, 5-11, 170, Jr.; Cody Renfro, CB, 5-8, 155, Jr. Conor Nicholl

5-4 in 2012 / 1-2 in district / 3A Mid-East League Coach: Mike Beam (21st year, 128-85; 26th overall, 151-96) Assistants: Joe Wilson, Mike Zabel, Mark Oberkrom, Garin Beam, Brad Hammett, Skyler Beam Offense: Double Wing Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 20 Returning starters: 1 Offense, 5 Defense Spenser Bowers, OL, 5-11, 205, Sr.; Justin Ward, DL, 6-0, 185, Sr.; Jesse Correll, 5-11, 215, Sr.; Marc Reiss, OLB, 5-7, 155, Sr.; Brett Hammett, FS, 6-0, 170, Sr.; Jackson Goodmiller, C, 6-0, 165, Jr. Conor Nicholl

WICHITA-INDEPENDENT PANTHERS

Jarrod Hibler is known for enthusiasm and constant energy on the sideline. His leadership helped the Panthers from a winless season in 2011 to a six-win improvement and the Class 3A playoffs last year, the first postseason trip in school history.

“Our goal is to continue the hard work from last season and see a continued improvement in our program,” Hibler said. “We lost some talented seniors, but have great players underneath them. If the team puts in the appropriate work, they will be successful.”

Independent qualified for the postseason with back-to-back victories in Weeks 8 and 9, 47-12 at Whitewater-Remington, and 55-7 versus Leon-Bluestem. Trey Williams delivered a key 55-yard punt return in the Week 9 victory, the first time in four weeks a team had kicked to him. He finished with 173 all-purpose yards on six touches. Williams, though, has graduated

and the Panthers bring back four offensive and five defensive starters.

“Our key is going to be gelling as a team,” Hibler said. “ We have some talented players, but their playing time is limited due to being young. If they work hard over the summer and become an efficient team they can have a lot of success.”

6-4 in 2012 / 2-1 in district / 3A Central Plains League Coach: Jarrod Hibler (3rd year, 6-13; 4th year overall, 9-19) Assistants: Eric Swenson. Richard Drakeford, Bryan Rhodes, Alex Hutchins, John Teimeyer, Gabe Morales Offense: Flex Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 15 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 5 Defense Carter McCausland, RB/LB, 5-10, 175; Karson Rowe, RB/LB, 5-10, 185; Drew Bonfiglio, OL, 5-11, 170; Chandler Miranda, DB, 5-9, 140; Chad Eikleberry, DB, 5-6, 145 Conor Nicholl

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

Page 52

Class 2-1A ■ By Conor Nicholl

overview

program is expected KPREPS.COM PRESEASON RANKINGS to maintain consistenCentralia had the lead late in the cy under new coach 1. Centralia fourth quarter against Meade in Darren Sasse, the 2. Meade the Class 2-1A state championship longtime junior high 3. Oakley game last fall at Fort Hays State Unicoach and Redmen 4. La Crosse versity’s Lewis Field Stadium. Then, graduate. Veteran Buffs quarterback Chris Hardaway assistants Brock 5. Lyndon threw a pair of touchdowns in the Hutchinson and Mike Others: Elkhart, Olpe, Smith Center, Sterling final 2 minutes and 58 seconds, Rogers will also stay including the winning score with 36 on staff. seconds remaining. Meade defeated Meade graduated and junior lineman Sheldon Schmidt the Panthers, 28-25, for its second 14 seniors including Hardaway, the (72 tackles, 9 tackles for loss, seven state title in three years. On the Class 2-1A Offensive Player of the sacks) lead the way. field, veteran Centralia coach Larry Year, and speedy running back TrevOakley coach Randall Rath has in Wiens. The Buffs return Jett Little, Glatczak was disappointed his team collected 117 wins in 16 years, but who caught the state title winning couldn’t pull off its third 2-1A title in has never played in a state champiscore, and senior running back/linefour seasons after it won in overtime onship football game. The Plainsmen backer Morgan Olvera, in his fourth in 2009 and ‘11. have had great teams, including five year as a starter.

But Glatczak quickly shifted his double-digit winning seasons from “We will have to find out early who focus to 2013. He and his team knew 2004-09 and at least seven victories is ready to step up and fill the gap,” what the Panthers were going to in all but one of the last nine years. coach Scott Moshier said. return. A year later, Centralia brings But Oakley consistently ran into La Crosse has six double-digit winback nine offensive and 11 defensive superb squads and lost in two subning seasons in the last seven years. starters from a 12-1 squad. The Panstate championship games. thers are the heavy favorites in Class The Leopards graduate Shrine Bowl The Plainsmen went 0-3 against 2-1A and have arguably the classifiselection Kip Keeley and all-state Smith Center, 0-2 versus Meade cation’s two best players in quarterrunning back Levi Morss, but have and 2-2 versus La Crosse, all in the back J.T. Rosine and running back/ plenty of speed and strength returnplayoffs. Last season, Oakley was ing from back-to-back Class 1A track linebacker Sam Steinlage. Rosine receiving votes in the KPreps precrowns. collected 1,880 rushing yards and season poll and eventually finished Junior quarterback Jack Garcia Steinlage rushed for 1,407 yards. fifth after it upset Stanton County in (1,397 passing yards, 16/6 TD/INT) “He is a player,” Glatczak said the first round, 14-12, and played La Crosse competitively on the road in a second-round 20-8 loss. This season, Rath believes he has a conIn addition to the players featured on the cover and inside back cover, these players are just a few of the best to keep an eye on in Class 2-1A this fall. tending squad that matches up well with the other top west teams.

Austin Baalman.............6-3, 210, Sr, TE/DE, Oakley “We feel like we have a really challenging schedule and one of the Morgan Davis.................6-4, 220, Sr, TE/DE, Meade biggest keys is going to be staying Jed Dierksen...................6-2, 250, Sr, OL/DL, Sterling healthy for us, because we don’t have a lot of depth, Rath said.

Joey Ferron.....................6-4, 275, Jr, DL, Centralia Oakley, long known for its defense, finished sixth in scoring defense at Jack Garcia......................5-10, 180, Jr, QB/DB, La Crosse J.T. RICHARDSON ALEX GOMEZ 13 points allowed per contest. The 6-0, 170, QB/DB, ARMA-NORTHEAST 5-11, 195, SR, QB/LB, ELKHART Ryan Kuhn......................6-2, 250, Jr, NG, Oakley Plainsmen return eight offensive and seven defensive starters, including Grant Lambert...............5-11, 170, Sr, RB/LB, Smith Center senior quarterback Darius Herl, fullNick McAferty.................6-2, 180, Sr, WR/DB, McLouth back Oscar Macias and nose guard Ryan Kuhn. Macias was District 7’s Ethan Miller....................5-9, 160, Jr, RB/DB, Alma-Wabaunsee Offensive MVP and Kuhn collected Defensive honors.

Lucas Moeder.................6-2, 194, Sr, DB, La Crosse Senior Austin Baalman returns Morgan Olvera...............5-9, 180, Sr, RB/LB, Meade after he collected all-state tight end honors.

MARSHALL JAY JETT LITTLE Joe Redeker....................6-2, 185, Jr, OL, Olpe of Rosine. “He is a football player.

There will be a lot of colleges smiling when they see this kid play.”

Other key players, especially senior defensive back Devin Rempe, have played a key part for many years.

Glatczak is very simple on his goals.

“Get better everyday and win a state championship,” he said.

Centralia and Meade are the current powerhouses in a classification that rarely sees change among its top powers. Just five teams – Meade, Centralia, Smith Center, Pittsburg/St. Marys-Colgan and Claflin – have won a state title since 1996. Just 10 have won a title since 1986.

In the east, Centralia will likely see competition from Lyndon, which went 11-1 last season, but lost to the Panthers in the playoffs. Lyndon brings back quarterback Joe Walsh and running back Josh Owens for a program that has won at least two playoff games three times from 2006-12. Out west, Meade, Oakley and La Crosse lead the pack.

Smith Center won its district last year with a 6-4 record and had a change when legendary coach Roger Barta and his longtime assistant Dennis Hutchinson retired. The

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PLAYERS TO WATCH

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6-3, 176, SR, TE/LB, LA CROSSE

5-8, 160, SR, RB/DB, MEADE

Photo by Marion McReynolds

Photo courtesy Everett Royer, ksportsimages.com

CENTRALIA / Continued from page 53

Dylan Weisner................6-0, 190, Sr, LB, Plainville

Rosine said. “We do our best to compete every year, and so far the outcome has been good. Being a part of those state championship games and being on those teams has been a great feeling. I can’t wait to have another chance at it this year.”

Steinlage and Rosine both played key roles in the 2011 state championship and last year’s runner-up finish.

“Both of those guys have been playing since they were sophomores,” Glatczak said. “They were on the state championship team in 2011. They were a vital part of the team even as sophomores. Now as seniors, I expect big things from those two guys this year. It’s a great senior class.”

The Panthers finished 12-1 last season, falling to Meade 28-25 in the Class 2-1A state championship.

Rosine rushed for about 1,900 yards, while passing for about 600 last season. He also will be a three-year starter at free safety.

“He’s a great free safety,” Glatczak said. “He’s a big-time hitter. He sets the tone whether it’s on special teams or on defense. Hitting is kind of contagious. Offensively, he’s a great runner. He also can pass. He didn’t have to a lot last year, but J.T. can throw the ball.”

Steinlage will enter his fourth season as a starting linebacker. He also has been a big part of the offense, moving from tight end to running back. Steinlage rushed for about 1,500 yards in 2012.

“Sam has been a great leader for us,” Glatczak said. “He keeps getting better every year. He’s started at linebacker since his freshman year. He’s a key on defense. He makes the calls. On offense, he’s a good receiver and he’s got enough speed at running back.”

Steinlage and Rosine lead a defense that returns 11 players who received significant time in the second half of last season. The Panther defense pitched five shutouts and kept opponents to no more than one touchdown in all but three games.

Centralia returns nine players from an offense that scored no less than 25 points in a game last season.

Obviously, the Panthers enter 2013 with high expectations of returning to the state championship game for the third consecutive season. And the motivation may be even higher after falling just short of a title last year. Centralia led Meade 25-14 with 4:44 remaining but yielded two touchdowns in the final three minutes.

“We want to win state,” Rosine said. “Those are the expectations. We want to go out and compete and do our best.”

Steinlage said the high expectations are welcomed.

“It’s a good feeling,” Steinlage said. “We put a lot of hard work in the summers. The community just backs us up. It feels great to have expectations, you know. Some teams don’t have the chances we do to play at state. Hopefully, we’ll get the chance to do it again.”

The community is a big part of the reason players like Steinlage are more than content with playing for a smaller school.

“It’s unreal how the community backs us up and supports our team,” he said. “You look out in the stands on Friday night and you see so many alumni back and supporting the team. It’s an unreal atmosphere I wouldn’t change a thing about going to a small school.”

All cover feature photos by Carla Wehmeyer, for Kansas Pregame

■ By Mark Schremmer For Kansas Pregame

Sam Steinlage remembers attending Centralia High School games as a kid and yearning for his chance to put on the Panther uniform.

“As a kid, you can’t wait to get underneath those Friday night lights,” said Steinlage, who starts at running back and linebacker for Centralia. “I can remember back in the day when we used to play on a sideline and we couldn’t wait to put those pads on. It’s a great feeling to be out there.”

For years, students in the Centralia area have been waiting for their turn to play for the Panthers.

Recent success includes state championships in 2009 and 2011 and a runner-up finish last season.

But the tradition involves more than that. Centralia has produced winning football programs for years. Heck, Pro Football Hall of Famer John Riggins suited up for Centralia High School.

“We’re a K-12 building, so game days are pretty special,” said Centralia head coach Larry Glatczak, who graduated from Centralia in 1986. “The younger kids get to see the players walking the halls in their jerseys. The third and fourth graders help us as ball boys. The towns shut down for the game that night.”

And like many other traditional small town schools, some of the last names on the roster span generations.

“You see a lot of the same names every year,” Glatczak said. “There are a lot of Steinlages, Burdieks, Talleys and others.

There are a ton of them in this county.

Some are related and some aren’t.”

Whether they are blood relation or not, they are all a part of the Centralia football family.

Players like Sam Steinlage and quarterback/defensive back J.T. Rosine hope to keep the tradition alive this season.

“This town really likes its football,”

CENTRALIA / Continued on page 52

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Northern Heights went 7-3 in 2010, then 0-9 in 2011 before a big improvement to 4-5 last year, including a 4-3 finish in the Flint Hills League under veteran coach Greg French.

Northern Heights has routinely been around the .500 mark under French. From 2004-09, the Wildcats went 5-4, 7-3, 3-6, 6-4, 5-4 and 4-5. The Wildcats haven’t won a playoff game since a 7-6 double overtime victory against Oskaloosa in 1983, but have made six playoff appearances since 1999.

This year, French’s goals are to: keep improving, play aggressive, be competitive in all games and make the playoffs. He listed the team’s keys as: attitude, acceptance of role and minimal injuries.

Mitchell Wecker returns after he led the team with 143 carries for 844 yards and tied for the team lead with six rushing TDs as a sophomore.

The top four receivers, who all caught between 123 and 285 yards worth of passes and combined for all 10 of the team’s receiving scores, return.

Chris McWilliams led the team with 285 yards and five TDs, while Wecker collected a team-high 23 catches. Including special teams and interception return yards, Wecker lead the squad with 1,601 yards, more than three times as much as any other player. He also collected 65 tackles and two tackles for loss, which is the best among returning players.

Northern Heights went 1-2 in games decided by six points or fewer, including a costly 22-20 Week 9 loss to Mission Valley when the Wildcats finished minus-2 in turnover margin

Alma-Wabaunsee has annually played one of Class 2-1A’s hardest schedules because of playing in the difficult Mid-East League. Last year, the Chargers played the No. 2-hardest schedule in the classification. It also played the No. 2-hardest SOS in 2011, No. 3 in 2010 and No. 1 in 2009. The team has no winning seasons and just 12 wins since 2004.

The program went 2-26 over three years and then went 4-6 and 2-8 the last two years. This year, coach Brian Henry has set goals to win a league game and win districts. Last year, the Chargers returned just four offensive and three defensive starters. This year, the Chargers return 11 starters on both sides of the ball. Among Mid-East teams, the Chargers are 0-9 against Silver Lake, Rock Creek, Rossville and Riley County and 0-10 against St. Marys. Senior Ethan Miller is back after he rushed 283 times for 1,517 yards and nine scores. Senior quarterback Shane Flach completed 22 of 61 passes for 215 yards and a 3/6 TD/INT ratio. The Chargers finished plus-1 in turnover margin.

“If young guys need to push the upperclassmen, we can only improve because of it,” Henry said.

To put the Northeast Vikings’ 2012 season into perspective, you have to know where they came from.

In Phil Hobbs’ previous four seasons as head coach, the Vikings finished with a dismal 1-35 record. That includes winless seasons in 2010 and 2011.

So you can understand why last year’s 4-5 season has created so much optimism for the future.

“We want to build upon the turn-around we accomplished in 2012,” Hobbs said. “Our players have to stay hungry and desire success, not be satisfied with last season. We implemented new schemes last season and should have a better understanding from our experience last year. We will build on the offense and overhaul the defense. We need to continue to work hard and improve in the weight room to accomplish any of the goals we establish. Our off-season was a major factor in the 2012 season with the elimination of injuries and being able to compete at a higher level. I feel with dedication to our summer programs we can win our league and win our district.”

The Vikings return eight starters on each side of the ball, including senior quarterback and defensive back J.T. Richardson. He will have several offensive weapons, including running backs Antonio Slingluff and Kegan Willard, tight end Noah Popejoy and wide receiver Nick Younge. Dakota Gesslein, Joey McDowell and Madison Saxinger lead a veteran offensive line.

Coach Travis Johnson continues his coaching journey by taking over one of Kansas’ longtime struggling programs at a school long known more for basketball than football. Belleville is 2-52 in the last six years and carries a 23-game losing streak into this season.

Johnson is originally from Edmond, Okla., and graduated from Branson High School in 1995. He has coached for 15 years, including stints at Carl Junction (Mo.) Middle School and Eisenhower Middle School in Topeka. Then, he coached at Highland Park for five years and pee-wee football for one year. He coached at Moscow for three years, one as an assistant and then the last two years as head coach. In his first year, Moscow went 8-2, led Eight-Man, Division II in scoring offense and lost to Otis-Bison in the first round of the playoffs. Last year, Moscow went 5-4 and missed the playoffs by one game.

This year, Johnson has set goals to make the playoffs and said the keys to success will be controlling the ball on the offensive side, limiting turnovers and staying disciplined.

Scheme-wise, Johnson said he is “going back to my roots from Oklahoma.” He grew up watching option football. At Mosow, the Wildcats ran a variation of the pistol and the Buffs will do that this year. The official name is the pistol flex that is similar to the double wing flexbone.

4-5 in 2012 / 2-3 in district / 2A Flint Hills League Coach: Greg French (15th year, 20th overall) Assistant: Brian Hadley Offense: Spread Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 12 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Mitchell Wecker, RB/LB, 5-10, 160, Jr.; Chris McWilliams, WR/DB, 6-0, 160, Sr.; Alex Hill, OL/DL, 6-2, 245, Sr.; Will Mills, OL/DL, 5-10, 285, Sr.; Colton Schumann, WR/LB, 5-9, 180, Sr.; Micheal Karr, WR/DB, 5-7, 150, Jr.: Justin Fredericksen, OL/LB. 6-2, 180, Sr. Conor Nicholl

2-8 in 2012 / 2-2 in district / 2-1A Mid-East League Coach: Brian Henry (5th year, 8-31; 7th overall, 10-47) Assistants: Dustin Wilson, Kyle Conroy Offense: Power Option Defense: 4-2 Returning lettermen: 15 Returning starters: 11 Offense, 11 Defense Shane Flach, QB/DB, 5-9, 170, Jr.; Ethan Miller, TB/ DB, 5-9, 160, Jr.; Aaron Mayer, TE/DB, 5-7, 150, Jr.; Ian Carroll, OL/DE, 6-2, 185, Jr.; Zach Haya, FB/LB, 5-7, 170, Jr.; Andrew Bird, LB, 5-9, 190, Jr.; Storm Johnson, WR/LB, 5-9, 155, So.; Matt Frank, TE/LB, 5-8, 165, Jr.; Justice Stuewe, OL/DL, 6-4, 230, So.; Alex Schmitz, OL/ DE, 6-0, 210, Jr.; Kolton Johnson, OL, 6-0, 210, Jr.; Zach Heine, OL/DL, 6-2, 285, So. Conor Nicholl

BENNINGTON BULLDOGS Tim Dolloff, is in his 12th year with the program and second as head coach after he led the Bulldogs from a winless season to a four-win improvement last year. Bennington opened with a 46-0 win against Remington, already a big change from the previous year when the Bulldogs never scored more than 16 points in a single game. Then, Bennington lost 34-26 to Inman and took a 20-0 loss to Marion.

Then, Bennington defeated Moundridge 42-41 and beat Republic County, 42-6. After a big loss to Plainville, Bennington defeated Washington County 30-29 before it lost 22-16 to Smith Center, the eventual district champion, and 47-0 to Brookville/Ell-Saline.

The Bulldogs haven’t had a winning season since a 6-4 record in 2005. Bennington has made the playoffs three times since 2000, with first round losses in 2005, ’06 and ’09. The Bulldogs haven’t won a playoff game since it lost to Coldwater in the Eight-Man, Division I championship game in 1994. This year, Dollof wants to “try to improve on what we

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4-5 in 2012 / 1-3 in district / 2-1A Three Rivers League Coach: Phil Hobbs (6th year, 5-40) Assistants: Jason Clemensen, Jim Leonard, Scott Post Offense: Pistol Spread Option Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: 23 Returning starters: 8 Offense, 8 Defense J.T. Richardson, QB/DB, 6-0, 170, Sr.; Antonio Slingluff, RB/LB, 5-10, 170, Jr.; Noah Popejoy, TE, 6-4, 200, Sr.; Troy Howard, LB, 6-0, 180, So.; Nick Younge, WR/DB, 6-1, 180, Sr.; Kegan Willard, RB, 5-8, 150, Jr.; Dakota Gesslein, OL/DL, 5-10, 260, Sr.; Joey McDowell, OL/DL, 5-10, 250, Sr.; Madison Saxinger, OL/DL, 6-1, 180 Mark Schremmer

0-9 in 2012 / 0-5 in district / 2-1A North Central Activities Association Coach: Travis Johnson (1st year, 0-0; 3rd overall, 13-6) Assistants: Kevin Couture, Nate Larkins Offense: Pistol Flex Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: N/A Conor Nicholl

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started this past year” and “take the next step in rebuilding.”

“Staying as free from injury as possible,” Dollof said of the team’s keys. “Going all out.”

Senior B.J. Glanton is back after he rushed 117 times for 585 yards and four scores, and senior Heath Thornhill is back after he collected 23 catches for 302 yards and one TD.

From 2006-09, Valley Heights went 7-3, 7-3, 7-3 and 8-2. The last three years, the Mustangs posted marks of 4-5, 3-6 and 3-6. Two years ago, Valley Heights defeated Onaga, Republic County and Troy, victories that came by a combined 16 points. Last fall, Valley Heights started 0-5 and then defeated Troy 39-6, Doniphan West 28-21, and then lost 26-21 to Jackson Heights before 4-5 in 2012 / 2-3 in district / 2-1A ending the Heart of America season with a 46-8 victory against Oskaloosa.

Coach: Tim Dolloff (2nd year, 4-5) This year, Valley Heights graduated seven seAssistants: Jerry Mick, Gregg Tanzer, Garrett niors, including wideout Tanner Trimble, who is Scritchfiels now at Coffeyville Community College. Valley Offense: Wing Defense: 5-3 Heights will play in a tough district with CenReturning lettermen: 8 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 4 Defense tralia, the defending state runner-up, Jackson B.J. Glanton, FB/MLB, 6-1, 255, Sr.; Logan Stegmann, Heights, Doniphan West, Valley Heights and OT/DT, 5-10, 305, Sr.; Heath Thornhill, WR/CB, 6-4, 175, Troy, all teams that have made the playoffs in Sr.; Kyle Kieborz, RB/CB, 6-0, 175, Jr.; Brian Weary, G/ the last four years.

DE, 5-8, 175, So. Centralia was 8-1 in non-district play, while Conor Nicholl Jackson Heights was 4-2.

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for two years already. That includes senior quarterback Derek Trimble, but the Mustangs graduate all five starters on the offensive line.

“We should have a greater knowledge of the assignments, and we should be able to do some new things with (the skill players),” coach Trimble said. “Defensively, we return most of our secondary and linebackers. … Our major concern this season is going to be finding linemen and depth.”

3-6 in 2012 / 2-3 in district / 2-1A Twin Valley League Coach: Tony Trimble (9th year, 42-35, 19th year, 110-66) Assistants: Lew Whitson, Ron Lee, Eric Stoddard Offense: Hybrid Wing/Option Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 9 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 5 Defense Derek Trimble, QB/DB, 6-2, 190, Sr.; Cole Maddox, FB/ LB, 5-11, 210, Sr.; Elijah Smith, WR/DB, 6-3, 160, Jr.; Gage Woodyard, WR/DB, 6-3, 175, Jr.; Lane Jorgensen, OL/LB, 5-1, 225, Jr. Conor Nicholl

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Ell-Saline recorded a five-win improvement under veteran coach Terry King last spring. The Cardinals eventually lost to La Crosse in the first round of the playoffs after it finished as district runner-up behind Smith Center. This year, Ell-Saline graduated many of its top players, including Garrett Walker, a two-year starter at quarterback who threw for 961 and 1,393 yards with 25 touchdowns and 23 interceptions in the last two seasons. The Cardinals also graduate senior Tobi Omli, who rushed 101 times for 782 yards and nine scores and Kaleb Whitehair, who caught 33 passes for 531 yards and six TDs. Coach King has still set high goals for his team, including winning league, districts and making a run in the state playoffs. Even with the loss of the skill players, Ell-Saline is expected to be strong up front. After losing in the first round in 2012, the Cardinals had advanced to the second round in 2008-10.

“Some younger athletes will have to grow up,” King said. “Ability of these athletes to accept coaching. Injuries. How well our offensive line can mesh together,” were other keys mentioned

by King. “Our QB will have to gain experience early in season.

“We could have the best offensive line we have had since I have been here,” he added.

“Our defense should be as good as it’s ever been. Will need to get some experience at defensive back positions. We have more football players returning that are working hard for the season than we have ever had since I have been here.”

Centralia and Meade have been Class 2-1A’s top programs in the last four years. The Panthers won the 2-1A state championship in 2009 with a 20-12 overtime victory against Smith Center. After Meade won the 2010 crown, Centralia beat La Crosse 20-14 in overtime in 2011. Last year, Centralia controlled the state game, but Meade scored two touchdowns in the final 2:55 to win 28-25.

This year, the Panthers graduated just five players for coach Larry Glatczak, a Centralia graduate who is in his 22nd year with the program and eighth as head coach. Senior tailback Sam Steinlage and quarterback J.T. Rosine are two of Kansas’ top players, while others, including senior defensive back Devin Rempe, have also seen time for multiple years.

Rosine rushed for 1,880 yards as a junior, while Steinlage collected 1,407 rushing yards.

The two combined for 60 touchdowns and helped the Panthers outscore opponents 540-92.

In Class 2-1A District 1, Rosine earned KPreps. com Offensive MVP honors, Steinlage was Defensive MVP and Glatczak and Jackson Heights’ Caleb Wick shared Coach of the Year honors.

Centralia had a 21-game winning streak snapped with the loss to Meade. Coach Glatczak said the team’s goals are to “get better everyday and win a state championship.”

Glatczak said the keys will be to become a closer unit and “strive to be the best we can be.”

Elkhart has been a strong team in two of coach Khris Buckner’s three seasons, but they’ve had the unfortunate task of playing in the same district as Meade and Johnson-Stanton County – something they’ll have to face again this year.

In Buckner’s first season, Elkhart went 7-2, with both losses to Meade and Stanton County.

In 2011, the Wildcats fell to 3-6. Last year, Elkhart improved to 5-4.

Since 2003, Elkhart is 0-5 against Meade and 1-8 versus Stanton County.

Elkhart had a two-win improvement last year mainly because a much stronger year from quarterback Alex Gomez and a better turnover margin. In 2011, the Wildcats were minus-4 in turnover margin. Last year, Elkhart was plus-8.

Gomez finished 114 of 221 passing for 2,048 yards with a 24/9 TD/INT ratio. As a sophomore, Gomez was 131 of 240 passing for 2,116 yards with 18 TD/18 INTs. Elkhart returns juniors A.J. McKinley (84 tackles, seven TFLs) and Wes Higgins (59 tackles, 10 TFLs, five sacks).

Buckner said the team goals are to win district, go undefeated at home and have success in the playoffs. Elkhart is 10-4 at home, 5-8 on the road under Buckner.

“Stay Healthy, continue to grow in the weight room over the summer, develop at the WR position, develop some depth in the interior lines,” Buckner said of the team’s keys.

Ellinwood, Republic County, Syracuse and Herington were the four Class 2-1A teams that finished without a victory last season. The Eagles last made the playoffs in 2002 and haven’t won a playoff game since 1979.

This year, Ellinwood looks to rebound behind nine returning offensive and eight defensive starters.

“We want to do whatever it takes to rebound from last year’s performance,” coach Dusty Beam said. “We want all of our kids to make 90 percent in the weight room this summer and we want to play a much more physical type of ball this coming season.”

Senior quarterback Jared Oelke split time last year under center and completed 13 of 34 passes for 230 yards with one touchdown against zero interceptions. Senior wideout Tanner Swank hauled in 13 passes for 330 yards and two scores – all team-highs. Senior Colton Churchill is back after he collected a team-high 88 tackles, six for loss.

“Our seniors will play a very big role in our success this season,” Beam said. “Last year left a nasty taste in their mouths and they have worked their tails off in the weight room all winter and spring with the upcoming season in mind.”

12-1 in 2012 / 4-0 in district / 2-1A Twin Valley League Coach: Larry Glatzcak (8th year, 76-19) 7-3 in 2012 / 5-1 in district / 2-1A Assistants: Roger Holthaus, Jason Wheeler, Jim Kramer Heart of America Offense: Single Wing Defense: 4-4 Coach: Terry King (15th year, 25th overall) Returning lettermen: 17 Assistant coaches: Joe Roche, Kevin Patrick, John Returning starters: 9 Offense, 11 Defense Ludes Sam Steinlage, TB/LB, 6-1, 195, Sr.; J.T. Rosine, QB/FS, Offense: I-back Option Defense: 5-2 6-1, 211, Sr.; Brett Burdiek, TE/LB, 6-1, 190, Sr.; Hunter Returning lettermen: 10 Haufler, OL/DE, 6-2, 190, Sr.; Joey Ferron, OL/DE, 6-4, Returning starters: 4 Offense, 4 Defense Evan Morrical, OL/DL, 5-10, 240, Jr.; Mason DeArvil, OL, 275, Jr.; Devin Rempe, SB/CB, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Andrew Beck, C/NG, 5-8, 150, Sr.; Cody Huerter, TE/OLB, 6-0, 5-11, 190, Sr.; Justin Schmutz, FB/LB, 5-11, 190, Sr.; 165, Sr.; Trevor Mars, FB/OLB, 6-0, 205, Jr.; Darrian Dylan Williams, OL, 5-11, 185, Sr.; Tanner Parker, DE, Conor Nicholl 6-0, 180, Sr.; Louie Arceo, DB, 5-10, 170, Jr. Nicholl Turner, CB, 5-10, 170, Jr.

ELLIS RAILROADERS Ellis had several streaks end by the slimmest of margins last year. The Railroaders lost 18-12 in overtime to Oakley in the final regular season contest. If Ellis had won, it would have went to the playoffs for the 10th straight year and collected its sixth straight district title. Instead, Ellis had its first losing season since 2003 and its first time without a playoff berth since 2002.

This year, Ellis returns five starters on both sides of the ball, including two linemen in seniors Nick Gehring and Skyler Tebo who are entering their third year as starters. The Railers will likely have junior Eli Lohrmeyer at quarterback, who saw some time late last year. Lohrmeyer was 19 of 38 for 179 yards and three TDs against seven interceptions. Landon Younger is the leading returning rusher with just 29 yards. Scott Pfeifer is the leading returning receiver with two catches for 20 yards.

Coach Butch Hayes’ three goals are to win district, advance in playoffs and win state.

“We will be a young team with a number of question marks heading into the season,” Hayes said. “However, our goals and expectations remain the same. It will take discipline, effort and teamwork to accomplish the goals we have set. We will need outstanding senior leadership

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5-4 in 2012 / 3-2 in district / 2-1A Hi-Plains League Coach: Khris Buckner (4th year, 15-12) Assistants: Toby Henry, Travis Johnson Offense: Spread Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: 23 Returning starters: 9 Offense, 9 Defense Alex Gomez, QB/OLB, 5-11, 195, Sr.; Austin Bond, RB/ OLB, 5-10, 185, Sr.; A.J. McKinley, RB/MLB, 6-2, 180, Sr.; Tanner Burnett, TE/MLB, 6-1, 225, So.; Juston Hurn, WR/S, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Wes Higgins, OL/DE, 6-3, 240, Jr.; Marshal Witcher, OL/DE, 6-3, 200, Jr.; Bryton Coen, C, 5-9, 165, Jr.; Wyatt Howe, OL/DT, 5-10, 260, Sr.; Colton Boaldin, CB, 5-8, 165, Jr. Conor Nicholl

0-9 in 2012 / 0-3 in district / 2-1A Central Prairie League Coach: Dusty Beam (3rd year, 2-16) Assistants: Andy Wesner, Kyle Kroeker Offense: Multiple Defense: Multiple Returning lettermen: 16 Returning starters: 9 Offense, 8 Defense Jared Oelke, QB/DB, 6-0, 150, Sr.; Kyle Jenks, WR/ LB, 5-10, 148, Sr.; Tanner Swank, WR/DB, 6-2, 170, Sr.; Gavin Vink, RB/LB, 5-10, 152, Jr.; Kaleb Schartz, RB/ LB, 6-0, 170, So.; Colton Churchill, RB/LB, 6-0, 190, Sr.; Adam Birzer, OL/DL, 6-3, 210, Sr.; Josiah Caspers, OL/ DL, 6-3, 280, So.; Trey Mosier, OL/LB, 6-0, 160, Sr.; Devon Jones, 6-3, 255, Sr.; Keaton Goering, OL/DL, 6-2, 245, Jr. Conor Nicholl

HERINGTON RAILERS

and a team commitment towards excellence.”

Ellis will again be in the same district as Oakley, which is quickly emerging as one of the classification’s best rivalries. The teams have split the last six meetings, all since 2007, with an average margin of victory of 7.7 points.

Coach Tom Flax will look to turn around Herington, a program that didn’t win a game last season and will enter the fall on a 13-game losing streak after it finished a 5-4 season in 2011 with four straight losses. In 2012, Herington just had one contest – a 64-58 loss to Chase County in Week 5 – within 28 points.

4-5 in 2012 / 2-2 in district / 2-1A Offense wasn’t the problem for the Railers, Mid-Continent League who hit double digits in every contest, cleared Coach: Butch Hayes (7th year, 41-23, 10th overall) 30 points three times, and 20 points six times.

Assistants: Craig Amrein, Jake Dreiling However, defense was the concern as Herington Offense: Spread Defense: 4-4 allowed 517 points for the season, third-most Returning lettermen: 5 Offense, 5 Defense in 11-man football. Turnovers were a big issue Scott Pfeifer, WR/DB, 6-1, 170, Sr.; Landon Younger, WR/DB, 5-9, 165, Sr.; Brandon Groff, OL/LB, 5-11, 185, as Herington committed 20 turnovers and Jr.; Nick Gehring, OL/DL, 6-0, 210, Sr.; Brody Douglas, finished minus-12 in turnover margin. Last year, OL/DL, 6-0, 250, Sr.; Skyler Tebo, OL/DL, 6-2, 220, Sr. Herington’s district had no team that had more Conor Nicholl than six wins.

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2002. Before then, the last playoff appearance came when it reached the second round in 1982.

Herington also reached the playoffs in 1981.

Herington made three playoff appearances in the 1970s and reached sub-state in 1976.

“We are going to focus on doing the little things correct and developing some consistency in all aspects of the game,” Flax said. “We will also work to be more balanced offensively and becoming a better tackling team defensively.”

0-9 in 2012 / 0-4 in district / 2-1A Flint Hills League Coach: Tom Flax (1st year; 6th overall, 13-41) Assistants: N/A Offense: Multiple Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: N/A Conor Nicholl

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

Page 58

HOLTON-JACKSON HTS. COBRAS

INMAN TEUTONS

JOHNSON-STANTON CO. TROJANS

LA CROSSE LEOPARDS

Jackson Heights ended the 2011 season with a 42-41 victory against Mission Valley on the game’s final play. The victory ended a 19-game losing streak. Then, Ed Ramsey resigned and 27-year-old Caleb Wick took over as head coach. Wick, a Smith Center graduate, had never been a head coach before, but instilled Redmen principles of growing everyday as people and the Wishbone/Bartabone offense.

The result was a 6-4 record and the school’s first winning season since 2006 in one of the state’s best coaching jobs last year. Wick shared KPreps.com District Coach of the Year honors with Centralia’s Larry Glatczak, who eventually led the Panthers to a state runner-up finish.

Jackson Heights tied Valley Heights at 2-2 for the second district spot, but Jackson Heights also defeated Valley Heights 26-21 in Week 8.

Jackson Heights lost 42-8 to McLouth for the school’s first playoff berth since 2006; the Cobras haven’t won a playoff game since reaching sub-state in 2002. This year, Jackson Heights looks to take the next step. Wick wants to execute on both sides of the ball and cut down on mental mistakes and have strong fundamentals.

“The hardest thing to accomplish as a team is keeping the winning mentality, and not being satisfied,” Wick said. “We accomplished a ton last year, and we hope to build on that success this year. We bring back some kids that contributed a great deal last year, but kids really need to step up during the summer with leadership as well as hard work and dedication.

“The league is going to be very deep this year and we are going to have to bring our A game each and every week,” he added. “Each coach around the league does a very nice job coaching and teaching their kids. It is going to be a dog fight throughout the year, and I cannot wait to get started.”

Coach Mike Vernon engineered a four-win improvement for Inman last season, but the Teutons fell short of the playoffs because of big district losses to La Crosse and Sterling, teams that each won a playoff game. This year, Vernon has set goals to win a Heart of America league championship and make the playoffs. The Teutons’ last playoff berth came in 2003 and its last playoff victory came in 2002.

Inman played in eight playoff games in the ‘90s, and made the semifinals in Eight-Man, Division I in 1991.

Inman had won just 15 games from 2004-11 before the turnaround last year. The Teutons started 4-1 with an average margin of victory of 12.5 points. Inman graduated running back Josh Miller, who rushed 191 times for 1,553 yards and 17 scores. Quarterback Justin Friesen returns after he completed 30 of 65 passes for 644 yards with a 9/5 TD/INT ratio. Tyler Cottam is back after he led the team with 10 catches for 188 yards and three TDs. He and Treyton DeVore each picked off three passes.

“In order to be successful this season our returners are going to have to play to their potential,” Vernon said. “We will also need a few younger players to step up and fill some needs.

Overall though, if we work hard and get better every day I believe the team will be just fine.”

Coach Bret Kendrick retired last season after he coached the Trojans for the last 20 years and finished with a 125-62 record. In his career, Kendrick was a head coach for 28 seasons and finished 168-89. Last season’s squad started preseason No. 4 in the KPreps’ Class 2-1A preseason poll and had multiple talented players, including senior quarterback Quinn Kendrick, the coach’s son, and running back Marques Logan. Stanton County’s lone regular season loss came against rival Meade, the eventual state champion. However, in the first round of the playoffs, the Trojans lost to Oakley, 14-12.

This season, Scott Martin has taken over and will run an I-formation offense and 4-4-3 defense. Martin was formerly the coach at Wyandotte, Okla., and went 5-6 last year despite just a 21-player roster. He also went 9-3 in 2011 after the Bears had back-to-back 0-10 seasons and a 23-game losing streak. In 2012, Wyandotte was named the BFS High School of the Year after the Bigger, Faster, Stronger weightlifting program. Martin was the main coach responsible for the turnaround.

His lone goal is simply “to win.” Stanton County is 27-6 in the last three seasons, with four of those losses coming against Meade.

The other two defeats came in the playoff game against Oakley and a 6-0 postseason loss to Plainville in 2010. In both games, turnovers and missed opportunities on fourth down greatly hurt Stanton County. Meade is again in the Trojans’ district.

“Kids are working very hard and preparing for a great season,” he said.

Stanton County did outscore opponents 35688 and finished No. 2 in the classification in scoring defense, according to preppowerindex. com.

La Crosse has now won double-digit contests in six of the last seven years. The Leopards are 40-6 under coach Jon Webster, a Leopard alum.

However, La Crosse is 1-3 against Meade and 39-3 against everyone else. The Leopards lost 34-12 to Meade on the road in the sub-state championship game.

La Crosse graduated arguably 2-1A’s best running back tandem in Shrine Bowler Kip Keeley (1,047 rushing yards, 516 receiving) and Levi Morss (1,641 rushing). However, the Leopards return plenty, including junior quarterback Jack Garcia and junior lineman Sheldon Schmidt.

“We want to continue to build the Leopard Program,” Webster said. “We will look to improve each week of the season and be playing our best football in districts and the playoffs.”

Garcia helped La Crosse outscore opponents 456-150. He completed 80 of 135 passes for 1,397 yards with a 16/6 TD/INT ratio. Schmidt led the squad with seven sacks and recorded 72 tackles and nine TFLs, best among returning players. As well, Marshall Jay (57 tackles) enters his third year as a starter and Lucas Moeder (59 tackles, four interceptions) also returns.

“The success of our season will be greatly determined by how well seniors emerge as leaders of the program,” Webster said. “We will be very green at several positions and our seniors will have to be ready to carry the load as our underclassmen figure things out. We have a tough schedule and will see some super talented teams in playoffs. Having great leadership will be huge for us.”

6-3 in 2012 / 2-2 in district / 2-1A Heart of America League Coach: Mike Vernon (2nd year, 6-3) Assistants: Bill Foust, Jeff Friesen Offense: Flexbone Defense: 4-2 Returning lettermen: 16 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 7 Defense Treyton DeVore, WR, 6-1, 177, Sr.; Taylor Almquist, G, 6-0, 263, Sr.; Hank Thiessen, TE, 6-0, 201, Jr.; Justin Friesen, QB, 6-1, 172, Sr.; Tyler Cottam, HB, 5-11, 168, Sr.; Dylan Bernhardt, DT, 5-10, 236, Sr.; Hank Thiessen, DE, 6-0, 201, Jr.; Tyler Cottam, SS, 5-11, 168, Sr.; Bryce 8-2 in 2012 / 4-1 in district / 2-1A Wenthe, FS, 6-0, 171, Sr.; Caden Severs, CB, 6-1, 177, Hi-Plains League 6-4 in 2012 / 2-2 in district / 2-1A Sr.; Ethan Councel, OLB, 6-1, 193, Jr. Delaware Valley League Conor Nicholl Coach: Scott Martin (1st year; 10th overall) Assistants: Aaron Sperber Coach: Caleb Wick (2nd year, 6-4) Offense: I Defense: 4-4-3 Assistants: Greg Nilgas, Toby Cowdin Returning lettermen: N/A Offense: Wishbone Defense: 5-2 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 5 Defense Returning lettermen: 17 Jacob Cron, Sr.; Angel Molina, RB/SE, Sr.; Gage Martin, Returning starters: 6 Offense, 5 Defense OL/DL, Sr.; Jeremy Amerin, TE/DE, Jr.; Eddie Camacho, Conor Nicholl OL/DL, Jr.; Adrian Gum, RB/LB, Sr. Conor Nicholl

LEOTI-WICHITA COUNTY INDIANS

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Faron Kraft, formerly the head coach for Ness City-Dighton and then for Medicine Lodge the past two years, takes over the Indian program that has struggled for many seasons. Former Leoti coach Drew Thon is now an assistant with Garden City. Kraft went 2-7 with Medicine Lodge last year after he went 4-6 in his first season with the program. Opponents outscored Leoti 449-144 last fall. Only three Class 2-1A teams, Republic County, Syracuse and Herington, allowed more points, according to preppowerindex.com. Kraft said the main goal was to the put the team in position to make the playoffs. Kraft listed two keys to success: have to get kids in the weight room in the summer and have an increase in numbers.

“Numbers have been low for a few years and we need to work hard to have more bodies,” Kraft said.

LYNDON TIGERS

Leoti has combined for seven wins in the last four years and again will be in a tough district with Oakley, Oberlin-Decatur Community and Ellis. Leoti hasn’t made the playoffs since 2002.

It also made the playoffs in 1977, ’99 and ’01 and has never won a playoff game in school history. Leoti’s only victory the last two years came against Syracause, a 60-8 margin in 2011 and a 34-28 victory last year. The Indians have lost 21 straight to teams that are not Syracuse dating back to a 14-12 victory against Elkhart in 2011.

Lyndon enjoyed another strong season in 2012. The Tigers won the third regional title under Stallbaumer with the first two coming in 2006 and ’07. Lyndon reached the playoffs for the sixth time in seven seasons also collected a sectional title and went 5-0 in league action before it lost to Centralia in the sub-state championship game. Lyndon outscored opponents 582-72 and led the classification in scoring defense, but nearly half of those points came in the 34-14 loss to the Panthers.

The Tigers graduated Skylar Farwell, who rushed for 1,196 yards and 25 scores, but return 1-8 in 2012 / 0-4 in district / 2-1A quarterback Joe Walsh (99 of 167 for 1,395 Northwest Kansas League yards with a 13/6 TD/INT ratio) and Cameron Coach: Faron Kraft (1st year, 7th overall, 22-32) Woodruff (40 catches for 650 yards and seven Assistants: Jason Archuletta, Hayden Parks scores).

Offense: Hybrid Wing-T Defense: 4-2 The team loses its entire offensive line that Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: N/A Conor Nicholl opened holes for 3,968 rushing yards. After an injury-plagued 2012, where he rushed for 736 yards in just over seven games and averaged W a rren Sto rie #7 yards per carry, Josh Owens returns. StallLaCrosse 11.5 baumer said the team’s strengths are experience Ta ylo r Y o h e #9

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11-1 in 2012 / 4-0 in district / 2-1A Central Prairie League Coach: Jon Webster (5th year, 40-6) Assistants: Chris Delimont, Andrew Schroter Offense: Multiple Veer Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 23 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 5 Defense Marshall Jay, TE/LB, 6-3, 176, Sr.; Lucas Moeder, DB, 6-2, 194, Sr.; Taylor Yohe, WR/DB, 6-3, 175, Sr.; Jacob Reifschneider, OL, 5-11, 196, Sr.; Sheldon Schmidt, OL/ DL, 6-3, 210, Jr.; Jack Garcia, QB/DB, 5-10, 180, Jr.; Andrew Jay, DB, 5-9, 168, Jr. Conor Nicholl

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at the skill positions, while concerns are at the offensive line and a lack of depth.

“All roads look to run through Centralia again in 2013, but Lyndon will face a stiff challenge in districts from traditional power Olpe and up and comers Oswego and Northeast-Arma,” Stallbaumer said.

11-1 in 2012 / 4-0 in district / 2-1A Flint Hills League Coach: Rod Stallbaumer (7th year, 41-22, 55-27 overall) Assistants: Toby Baker, Rick Kober, Mike Allard Offense: Gun Flexbone Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 8 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 5 Defense Josh Owens, RB/LB, 6-0, 200, Sr.; Joe Walsh, QB/DE, 6-2, 205, Sr.; Cameron Woodruff, WR/FS, 6-1, 165, Sr.; Garrett Fitch, OL/DT, 5-8, 275, Sr.; Gaige Brecheisen, WR/CB, 5-10, 145, Sr.; Dawson Swinehart, WR/DB, 5-10, 145, Jr. Conor Nicholl

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McLouth is looking for a third straight winning season, and while just seven lettermen return, six of them have starting experience.

McLouth’s offense returns senior running back Drew Cerny and senior receivers Nick McAferty and Colton Koch.

“Nick was one of the key pass threats from the 2012 season, and Colton provided downfield blocking that allowed many deep runs,” Stewart said.

Seniors John Courtney (first-team All-League in 2012) and Brady Sullivan will anchor the offensive line, while junior Jack Courtney is expected to step into the varsity quarterback spot after playing two years on the JV. Junior Dylan Stauch is the only returning starter on the defensive line, while Sullivan returns at linebacker after earning first-team All-League honors a year ago.

In the secondary, McLouth returns three starters in McAferty, Cerny and Sergio Hernandez.

“Nick and Drew were selected to the DVL first team selection in 2012 and will be key to leading the defense for the Bulldogs,” Stewart said.

Meade won its second Class 2-1A state championship in three years after with a thrilling comeback against Centralia. The Buffs have won double-digit games five years in a row and have won four state titles in school history.

Meade graduates Chris Hardaway, the Class 2A Offensive Player of the Year with 1,178 passing yards and 1,157 rushing yards, and running back Trevin Wiens (1,654 yards), but returns junior Jett Little, who rushed 100 times for 843 yards and 10 scores.

Little also caught 26 passes for 379 yards and seven scores, all team-highs, including the game-winning 24-yard pass on 3rd-and-15 in the state championship game. It marked the second straight year Little rushed for at least 800 yards. Morgan Olvera has 162 career tackles and will enter his fourth year as a starter.

“We have to replace 14 seniors off of last year’s team and we will have to find out early who is ready to step up and fill the gap,” Moshier said.

9-2 in 2012 / 4-0 in district / Class 2A Delaware Valley League Coach: Chris Stewart (6th year) Assistants: Gary Freeman, Kevin Stewart, David Boucher Offense: Spread Defense: N/A Returning lettermen: 7 Returning starters: 6 offense, 5 defense Drew Cerny, RB/DB, Sr.; Nick McAferty, WR/DB, Sr.; Brady Sullivan, OL/LB, Sr.; John Courtney, OL, Sr.; Colton Koch, WR, Sr.; Dylan Stauch, DL, Jr. Melanie McGee

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MEDICINE LODGE INDIANS Medicine Lodge had a tough season with just two wins. Coach Faron Kraft left the program after a 6-13 record in two seasons and is now with Leoti. Medicine Lodge started 0-6 and had just seven points in the first four games, including three straight shutouts in Weeks 2-4.

The Indians defeated Ellinwood 30-20 in Week 7 and then beat Sublette 20-8 in Week 8 before it ended the season with a 56-8 home loss to La Crosse.

For the season, Medicine Lodge tallied just 111 points. The Indians averaged 235 yards per game, but had a 4/13 TD/INT ratio, fumbled 21 times (13 lost) and finished minus-7 in turnover margin.

In 2011, Medicine Lodge scored 216 points, averaged 289 yards of offense per game, had a 6/8 TD/INT ratio, had 12 lost fumbles and was minus-3 in turnover margin.

This fall, first-year coach Josh Ybarra expects to have a young, inexperienced team. He would like to “improve our offensive totals and become much better defensively.”

“The key to our team’s success is going to be improving everyday this summer and every practice once the season starts,” Ybarra said.

“We are going to have to figure things out at a quick pace and be a very disciplined football team.”

2-7 in 2012 / 1-3 in district / 2-1A Central Plains League Coach: Josh Ybarra (1st year) Assistants: Mike Stull, Judd Dohrmann, Shane Hahn Offense: Wing T Defense: 5-2 Returning lettermen: 7 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 4 Defense Scott Angell, OL/DL, 6-9, 220, Sr.; Scott Beecher, QB/DB, 5-9, 155, Sr.; Erich Fischer, OL/DL, 6-4, 190, Jr.; Anthony Schmidt, OL/DL, 5-10, 190, Jr.; Aaron Woodward, TE/LB, 5-10, 185, Jr.; Gage Axline, RB/LB, 5-10, 175, So.; Nick Noland, RB/DB, 5-8, 145, So. Conor Nicholl

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The Jayhawk-Linn Jayhawks opened the 2012 season with an 8-6 victory over Central Heights. Things went downhill after that with eight consecutive losses.

First-year coach Spencer Brown will try to get things back on track as the Jayhawks have won only two games over the past two seasons.

“Our players need to understand the game of football beyond the athleticism of individuals,” Brown said. “Adaptability and discipline will be key to our program.”

Brown does have some building blocks for success with four starters returning on offense and six on defense. Plus, Jayhawk-Linn may be closer than its record indicates as the Jayhawks lost three games by nine points or less last season.

As of press-time, the Jayhawks were still unsure what type of offense they were going to run. However, Jayhawk-Linn does have a good foundation with quarterback Tommy Avery returning after starting as a sophomore. The Jayhawks also boast some experienced blockers with offensive linemen Levi Jackson and Ethan Jackson and tight end Brayden Miller returning.

Defensively, the Jayhawks return three starters at linebacker with Avery, senior Levi Jackson and sophomore Brett Nation. Free safety Wes Leach, defensive tackle Ethan Jackson and defensive end Miller also return.

Jayhawk-Linn will try to get off to a good start despite having three of its first four games on the road.

Oakley finished No. 5 in the final Class 2-1A rankings after it opened the season with a loss to Class 4A Colby, a team that finished with just two wins. But the Plainsmen continued to improve throughout the season, finished 7-3 and outscored opponents 294-130. In 2011, Oakley went 7-3, but outscored opponents 427-218.

The Plainsmen won their district with an 18-12 overtime victory against Ellis in Week 9, and then pulled off an upset with a 14-12 home victory against Johnson-Stanton County in the first round of the playoffs. Oakley played a competitive game against La Crosse in a 20-8 second round loss. The Plainsmen finished No. 6 in scoring defense in Class 2-1A last year.

This year, coach Randall Rath is first concerned with a difficult district that includes Ellis and an improved Oberlin team. The Plainsmen are 9-0 against Oberlin since 2004, but won 16-6 last year. Ellis and Oakley have split the last six meetings with all the games decided by 14 points or fewer.

Oberlin is “going to be a really good football team,” Rath said. “Ellis will have some good kids back. To get out of our district is going to be tough.”

Oakley brings back several decorated players, including all-state tight end Austin Baalman and junior nose tackle Ryan Kuhn, the KPreps District 7 Defensive MVP. On paper, Meade and Oakley are arguably the two best teams in the west.

Before last fall, Oberlin hasn’t made the playoffs since 2009 or posted a winning season since 1996. Since 1989, Oberlin has never won more than five games. However, Joe Dreher, the longtime wrestling coach, athletic director and coach at several levels of football for the last 18 years, sparked the Red Devils to a 4-6 season and a playoff appearance last year. Oberlin actually tied its win total from a 4-5 season in 2011, but made the playoffs on a tiebreaker and a strong running game and defense. Opponents outscored the Red Devils 182-158. The previous year, opponents outscored Oberlin 226-197.

Oakley won Class 2-1A, District 7 with a 4-0 record and Oberlin, Ellis and St. Francis all tied at 2-2. However, Oberlin was plus-9, Ellis was plus-6 and St. Francis was zero.

“Our team goals this season are to improve from last season and like every team win districts,” Dreher said. “To be successful we have to establish a running game and be consistent and fundamentally sound on both sides of the ball.”

Senior Chris Anderson is back after he led the team with 125 carries for 529 yards and seven TDs. Junior Rex Diederich returns after he collected 75 stops. The Red Devils committed 16 turnovers, including nine interceptions from returning quarterback Dayton Dreher, and finished plus-2 in turnover margin. Oberlin plays in the Northwest Kansas League, but often faces teams from the Mid-Continent League, including Ellis in district play. The Red Devils have lost nine straight to MCL teams.

Among current Class 2-1A teams, Centralia and Olpe are arguably the most consistent on the eastern half of the state. Olpe has posted a winning record every year since 2004 and has four double-digit winning seasons in that span, including 13-1, 10-1 and 10-3 marks from 2008-10. The 2008 season ended in a state runner-up finish to Smith Center.

In 2011, Olpe took a step back and finished 5-4, but rebounded to an 8-3 mark last fall. Last year, Olpe lost 28-0 to Centralia in the second round of the playoffs. Olpe will also have to contend with rising power Lyndon. The Tigers have beaten Olpe three of the past four years.

The three losses have come by a combined score of 91-15.

Last season, Olpe returned five offensive and six defensive starters and brings back eight offensive and six defensive starters this year. Senior lineman Chance Stout and senior running back/linebacker Isaac Hall are the lone starters who have started more than a year. Joe Redeker was a first team all-state selection on the offensive line and honorable mention on defense. Stout was honorable mention all-state on both sides of the ball.

“We should be solid,” coach Chris Schmidt said. “We need to find some guys for the secondary. If we do the fundamentals well, we will be okay. We would like to improve each night out. Win District. Win state. Do the fundamentals. Block, tackle, execute.”

1-8 in 2012 / 0-3 in district / 2-1A Three Rivers League Coach: Spencer Brown Assistants: Ripp Harrison, Clint Johnson Offense: N/A Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 8 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 6 Defense Tommy Avery, QB/LB, Jr.; Levi Jackson, C/LB, Sr.; Wes Leach, FS, Jr.; Ethan Jackson, OT/DT, Jr.; Brayden Miller, TE/DE, Jr.; Brett Nation, LB, So. Mark Schremmer

7-3 in 2012 / 4-0 in district / 2-1A Northwest Kansas League Coach: Randall Rath (16th year, 117-51) Assistants: Mark Dennis, Rob Sattler, Andy Starbuck, Craig Womsley Offense: Multiple Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 12 Returning starters: 8 Offense, 7 Defense Darius Herl, QB/S, 6-3, 190, Sr.; Oscar Macias, FB/OLB, 5-9, 170, Sr.; Key Keller, TB/OLB, 6-1, 170, Sr.; Austin Baalman, TE/DE, 6-3, 210, Sr.; Dylan Gassman, C/LB, 6-0, 220, Jr.; Eric Rucker, LG/LB, 5-10, 215, Sr.; Mason Rains, RG/DL, 6-2, 255, Sr.; Ryan Kuhn, NG, 6-2, 250, Jr.; Brayden Hubert, 6-3, 165, CB, Sr. Conor Nicholl

PLAINVILLE CARDINALS Five teams were ranked in the Class 2-1A preseason KPreps poll last season. Four others received votes. Plainville was ranked No. 2 in the preseason and was coming off a 10-2 season and sub-state championship game appearance in 2011. Instead, the Cardinals played the seventh-hardest schedule in the classification, according to preppowerindex.com, and finished 5-4. The Cardinals missed the playoffs, the only one of those nine teams that missed the postseason, seven of those nine won at least one playoff game.

Plainville had some injuries, especially to Shrine Bowl lineman Bradey Chard, and had trouble replacing four senior leaders from the year before. However, before 2011, the Cardinals hadn’t had a winning record in 17 years. This year, Simon’s goal is to “improve each and every week and to finish the season above .500.”

The Cardinals will have another tough opening stretch with Phillipsburg, Ellis, Norton, La Crosse and Ell-Saline in the first five games.

H erita ge In su ra n ce G ro u p

8-3 in 2012 / 3-1 in district / 2-1A Lyon County League Coach: Chris Schmidt (7th year, 54-15) 4-6 in 2012 / 2-2 in district / 2-1A Assistants: Terry Smith, Stephen Towers Northwest Kansas League Offense: I-formation Defense: 5-2 Coach: Joe Dreher (2nd year, 4-6) Returning lettermen: 10 Assistants: Caleb Howland, Shane Bird Returning starters: 8 Offense, 6 Defense Offense: Pro I Defense: 4-3 Chance Stout, OT/DE, 6-4, 220, Sr.; Isaac Hall, RB/LB, Returning lettermen: 12 6-0, 190, Sr.; A.J. Bloufuss, TE/DE, 6-0, 200, Sr.; Toby Returning starters: 5 Offense, 7 Defense Rex Diederich, OL/LB, 6-0, 180, Jr.; Kennedy Fortin, OL/ Smith, RB/DB, 5-7, 150, Sr.; Bo Krueger, QB/FS, 6-2, LB, 5-10, 190, Sr.; Chris Anderson, RB/LB, 5-8, 160, Sr.; 175, Jr.; Joe Redeker, OG/LG, 6-2, 185, Jr.; Coltin Arndt, Konner Fortin, OL/DE, 5-10, 195, Sr.; Dayton Dreher, QB/ OG/NG, 5-10, 190, Jr.; Drew Benton, OT/DT, 6-0, 250, DB, 5-9, 160, Sr.; Kyle Breth, SE/DB, 5-8, 150, Sr.; Grant Jr.; Caleb Cable, C/DT, 5-9, 225, Jr. Conor Nicholl Gilliam, TE/DB, 6-0, 170, Sr. Conor Nicholl

SMITH CENTER REDMEN

Last year, Plainville started 2-3 - four of those squads went onto the playoffs.

Hadley Gillum, one of the state’s top basketball players, looks to improve after completing 32 of 64 passes for 558 yards with a 6/7 TD/ INT ratio. Senior Dylan Weisner is back after leading the team with 76 tackles.

“Our key to success is to continue to be dedicated and work hard in the off-season and for players to step up into leadership roles,” Simon said.

Smith Center underwent a coaching change in the offseason when legendary coach Roger Barta, and his longtime assistant, Dennis Hutchinson, retired. Barta finished with a 32365 record and eight state championships in 35 years. Darren Sasse, also a Redmen graduate and longtime junior high coach, takes over the program.

Veteran defensive coordinator Brock Hutchinson and longtime running backs coach Mike Rogers will remain on staff. Smith Center will run the same system it has used for decades and 5-4 in 2012 / 3-2 in district / 2-1A will keep the 4-3 defense. Sasse said dedication Mid-Continent League over the summer and improving each week Coach: Joe Simon (4th year, 19-21) during the season are the team goals.

Assistants: Ryan Becker, Justin Casey Our goals are the same each year,” Sasse said.

Offense: Wing-T Defense: 5-2 “Improve every week and see how far through Returning lettermen: 10 the playoffs that will take us.”

Returning starters: 4 Offense, 5 Defense Alex Wahrman, OT/DT, 6-0, 240, Jr.; Hadley Gillum, Last season Smith Center opened 0-2 and then QB/S, 6-4, 210, Sr.; Austin Wahrman, G, 5-10, 200, Sr.; 1-3 with three defeats by at least 21 points.

Dylan Weisner, LB, 6-0, 190, Sr.; John Arnold, NG, 6-0, However, the Redmen went 5-0 in district play 245, Sr.; Trevor Desaire, CB, 5-10, 170, Sr. Conor Nicholl with wins by two, one and six points in a three week stretch. The season ended with a 26-16

first round home playoff loss to Sterling. Smith Center brings back eight starters on both sides of the ball, including second team all-Mid-Continent League selections Kody Molzahn (RB) and linemen Jordan Shockley and Nick Johnson. Defensively, Cole Lorenzen and Shockley collected second team honors on the line. Grant Lambert and Wyatt Oliver were second team picks at linebacker and Taylor Zabel was second team at defensive back.

6-4 in 2012 / 3-0 in district / 2-1A Mid-Continent League Coach: Darren Sasse (1st year) Assistants: Brock Hutchinson, Mike Rogers, Jed Kingsbury Offense: Wishbone Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 12 Returning starters: 8 Offense, 8 Defense Clint Rogers, RB/DB, Sr; Grant Lambert, RB/LB, Sr.; Kody Molzahn, QB/DB, Sr.; Taylor Zabel, TE/DB, Sr.; Zac Carder, OL/DL, Sr.; Jordan Shockley, OL/DL, Sr.; Nick Johnson, OL/DL, Sr.; Cole Lorenzen, TE/DL, Sr.; Wyatt Oliver, OL/LB, Sr. Conor Nicholl

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

Page 61

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St. Francis had a declining win total for five straight years and a declining scoring offense for six consecutive years. However, the Indians reversed those trends last year, had a two-win improvement and stayed in the playoff chase until the end of the year under first-year coach Kyle Buffington, an Indian alum.

The Indians played in a close district that featured St. Francis, Ellis, Oberlin and Oakley battling for two playoff spots into Week 9. The Indians tallied 198 points and had enough team speed to win the Class 1A 400-meter relay title in the spring. St. Francis scored 36 more points than it did in 2011. Its three in-state losses came against teams that made the playoffs and the Indians also lost 26-18 to Wray, Colo. in Week 4.

This year, the Indians don’t have Wray – a team it has lost to three years in a row by an average margin of 23.3 points – and will have two open dates. Buffington wants the team to return to the playoffs for the first time since 2009.

St. Francis graduated 10 seniors, but has a solid group back, including senior Scott Warren (6-0, 250) and junior Shakotah Blanka (6-0, 290).

“Our keys to success will be in the hands of a young bunch of men,” Buffington said. “We have a talented group of underclassmen, but only a handful of them have to carry the weight of our program’s ability to be successful on their shoulders. They do, however, know what it is going to take.”

Sterling started 0-4 last season, but played much better in the second half of the year, including a 26-16 first round playoff win against Smith Center. The Black Bears had lost eight straight playoff game before the victory.

Then, Sterling lost 32-14 to eventual champion Meade in the second round. The Black Bears do graduate quarterback Riley Galyon, who completed 52 of 122 passes for 668 yards with five touchdowns against eight interceptions.

As well, Galyon had 295 carries for 1,739 yards and 20 scores. Against Smith Center, he rushed 50 times for 230 yards and two TDs. The top four rushers graduated as well as the top two receivers.

Galyon also led the team by a big margin with 102 tackles, but senior Jed Dierksen is back after he ranked second with 74 tackles. Five of the returning starters are linemen/tight ends.

“Our goal every year is to continue to move our program in a positive direction and improve on the team we were the year before,” Hendricks said. “Our two biggest keys this season is for our line to play dominating football they are capable of playing and for some younger players to step up and fill in some holes we have due to graduation.”

For the second straight year, Sterling will face La Crosse and Stanton County, two teams that regularly make the playoffs.

Syracuse has struggled for many decades and has not made a playoff appearance since a first round defeat to Oakley in 2004. The program’s last playoff victory was 30-7 to Bucklin in 1999. Coach Chris Pollart won 19 games in eight years before he stepped aside for two seasons. Pollart coached last year, and John Guerrero has taken over as coach for this year.

“To be competitive in all games,” Guerrero said of the team’s goals. “To build a foundation for the future.”

Syracuse hasn’t had a coach serve more than one season since 2009. Last year, Syracuse was winless and enters the season with a 13-game losing streak that dates back to a 34-14 victory versus Satanta in Week 5 of the 2011 season.

“How well some of the key players pick up the new system and the players who haven’t played in a few years pick it up,” Guerrero said of the Bulldogs’ keys.

On the positive side, Troy did defeat Jackson Heights, 8-6, an eventual playoff team. However, the Trojans scored just 91 points and finished second to last in Class 2-1A in scoring offense.

Only 0-9 Belleville-Republic County scored fewer points (73). Troy scored more than 12 points in just one game. The Trojans also lost, 7-6, to Atchison County and 6-0 to Riverside.

The other victory was a 44-20 win against Immaculata. This year, Derek Jasper takes over and looks to improve on fundamentals and not turning the ball over. Jasper will run a Spread offense and 5-3 defense and has set a goal for the players to have a grasp of the schemes come district time.

“Turnovers must be cut down,” Jasper said.

“We want to be competitive in every game and play hard every snap. We would love to have a winning season but things will have to go well to achieve that in year one of a new coaching staff.”

4-4 in 2012 / 2-2 in district / 2-1A Northwest Kansas League Coach: Kyle Buffington (2nd year, 4-4) Assistants: Devin Dinkel, Seth Swihart, Nick O’Loughlin Offense: Wishbone Defense: 3-5 Returning lettermen: 15 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 3 Defense Wyatt Landenberger, DB, 5-8, 150, Sr.; Clay Cassaw, QB, 5-9, 140, So.; Cade Bracelin, LB, 6-0, 190, Jr.; Kyler Zweygardt, OL/DL, 6-2, 230, Jr.; Shakotah Blanka, OL, 6-0, 290, Jr.; Scott Warren, OL, 6-0, 250, Sr. Conor Nicholl

4-7 in 2012 / 3-1 in district / 2-1A Central Kansas League Coach: Matt Hendricks (5th year, 20-21) Assistants: Derek Schneider, Wes Laudermilk, Tyson Bauerle Offense: Spread Defense: 5-2 Returning lettermen: 14 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Austin Meyers, RB/S, 5-10, 180, Sr.; Michael Hendricks, WR/DB, 5-6, 160, Sr.; Luke Schwietzer, OL, 6-3, 220, Sr.; Hunter Hewitt, OL, 6-1, 280, Sr.; Tannar Stallings, OL/DL, 6-2, 250, Sr.; Jed Dierksen, OL/DL, 6-2, 250, Sr.; Jordan Proffitt, TE/LB, 6-5, 220, Jr. Conor Nicholl

WASHINGTON COUNTY TIGERS Phil Wilson stepped aside after 23 years as a head coach, including the last six with Washington County. Wilson’s lone winning season with the Tigers was a 7-3 record in 2010, but he never won fewer than three games in any season.

Last year, Washington County was 1-4 at home, but 2-2 on the road. Opponents outscored Washington County 242-143. Washington County opened the season with a 31-21 victory against Onaga, but then lost 7-0 to Minneapolis and 42-0 to Centralia/Wetmore. Then, the Tigers beat Valley Heights, 34-20. It lost 30-0 to Smith Center before it earned its last victory with a 43-0 win against Republic County. Washington County finished the season with a 30-29 loss to Bennington, a 40-0 loss to Ell-Saline and a 52-6 defeat to Smith Center. Against eventual playoff teams, Washington County went 0-3 and was outscored 112-0. The Tigers finished 1-4 in

Class 2-1A, District 6.

The Tigers played in 11 playoff games in the 2000s, but none since a 54-20 first round loss to Ellis in 2009. Washington County went 1-10 in those playoff contests with the only victory a 20-13 first round victory against Troy in 2006.

First year coach New coach Daniel Vaughn said “effort” is the team’s key to success and would like “for every player to reach their full potential.”

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2-7 in 2012 / 1-3 in district / 2-1A Delaware Valley League Coach: Derek Jasper (1st year) Assistants: Don Cash, Todd Shifflett Offense: Spread Defense: 5-3 Returning lettermen: 10 Conor Nicholl Returning starters: 7 Offense, 8 Defense Collin Jasper, QB, 5-10, 150, Jr.; Alex Schmille, LB, 6-0, 165, Jr.; Cody Israel, LB, 6-0, 185, Sr.; Caleb Winkel, DB, 5-10, 155, Sr.; Nathan Gaarder, DE, 6-2, 180, Jr.; Colton Masters, RB/DE, 6-1, 187, Sr.; Derek Franken, RB, 5-7, 148, Jr.; Jay Whetstine, G/LB, 5-9, 200; Dalton Masters, OL/DL, 6-1, 249; Ryan Franken, OL, 5-8, 183 Nicholl

WINCHESTER-JEFFERSON CO. NORTH CHARGERS Jefferson County had a two-win improvement from last season, but again lost in the first round of the playoffs, this time to eventual state-runner-up Centralia. This year, the Chargers graduated many of their top players, including Dustin Fowler, first team all-league on both sides of the ball. As well, Sam Gerety graduated after he was first team both ways as offensive lineman and defensive specialist. Cory Noll (first team safety), Shane Noll (first team defensive line), and Cody Rhyne (first team line) were all lost to graduation. Gerety and Shane Noll were named to the all-area team.

Veteran coach Mark McMillan said the strength of the team relies in the returning skill players. Defensively, the Chargers return plenty at the linebackers and corners, but the main concern in the defensive line and filling a couple of linebacker spots. Last year, the Chargers lost 46-7 to Centralia in the playoffs. In 2011, it was a 49-0 first round loss to Colgan. In the

WASHINGTON COUNTY NEWS

3-6 in 2012 / 1-5 in district / 2A Twin Valley League Coach: Daniel Vaughn (1st year) Assistants: Scott Romeiser, Blake Erkenbrack Recording the culture of Washington County since 1869 Offense: Power I Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: N/A 323 C St. • Washington, KS 66968 Returning starters: N/A 785-325-2219 • editor@bluevalley.net Conor Nicholl Follow us on Facebook and Twitter

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0-9 in 2012 / 0-4 in district / 2-1A Hi-Plains League Coach: John Guerrero (1st year) Assistants: Tanner Smith, Brent Parks Offense: Spread Defense: 5-3 Returning lettermen: 6 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 5 Defense

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“We will need to focus on our summer weightlifting program and do our best to stay injury-free during the season to maintain and/or develop experience at key positions,” McMillan said.

6-4 in 2012 / 3-1 in district / 2-1A Delaware Valley League Coach: Mark McMillan (19th year, 115-78; 21st year, 134-82) Assistants: N/A Offense: Spread/Multiple Defense: N/A Returning lettermen: 9 Returning starters: 8 Offense, 9 Defense Aaron Meckfessel, RB/CB, Sr.; James Pisachubbee, RB/LB, Sr.; Kyle Noll, RB/LB, So.; Jeremy Larson, RB/ DL, So.; Elijah Meyer, OL/DL, So.; Joe Kern, OL/DL, Jr.; Justin Larson, OL/DL, Sr.; Austin Wolfe, CB, Jr.; Luke Pyle, TE/DE, Sr. Conor Nicholl

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IRON WILL FEATURES cont’d UBELAKER & WALKER / Continued from page 11

all-purpose yards. Sophomore quarterback Jake Tiernan returns after he completed 75 of 111 passes for 1,190 yards with a 17/6 TD/INT ratio.

Kenton is a terrific all-around athlete who plays basketball, track and summer baseball. Ubelaker has qualified for state track in the 100, 800, and several relays – a rare combination. He is also the younger brother of Brooke and Karie Ubelaker, who helped the Bulldogs win multiple basketball and track titles in the early 2000s. “(Our dad) always said that no matter what you accomplish in life, you have to work hard,” Brooke Ubelaker said.

Brooke went on win a national championship and earn All-American basketball honors at Washburn University. Karie played basketball at Sterling College and won four straight league titles. The two sisters come back to many of Kenton’s games.

“I never remember being so nervous as an athlete,” Brooke Ubelaker said. “It’s more nerve-wracking being in the stands just watching.”

Ubelaker is just 5-foot-8, 175 pounds, but is the team’s most experienced player. He has bench pressed 285 pounds, squatted 420, ran a 40-yard dash in 4.53 seconds and vertical jumped 27 inches. Lerock suffered a knee injury two years ago, but has since rebounded and at 6-2, 205 is able to bench 330, squat 400, clean 250, while running a 4.8 second 40 and jumping 28 inches in the vertical leap.

The weight room work helped turn Schurr into an all-state player – honors that Ubelaker and Lerock have since inherited.

“A great athlete in Damon Schurr, such a fast kid who has improved a lot from last year to this year,” Hoxie coach Lance Baar said at the time. “..He got a lot stronger over the summer.”

In 2012, Ubelaker ran on the Class 1A 400-meter winning relay that also featured Schurr and Alan Mick, currently a senior. The squad ran 43.85 seconds, just .06 seconds off the state record. Ubelaker also finished ninth in the 800 run in 2:08.99.

This fall, Ubelaker and Osborne again put up big numbers, but the team played in a strong district with state runner-up Mankato-Rock Hills, Clifton Clyde and Pike Valley. Osborne lost to Rock Hills and Pike Valley and missed the playoffs.

This spring, Osborne took eighth in the 400 relay with Ubelaker, Mick, current senior Boone Cady and current junior Isaac Sustar. The same quartet took second in the 1,600 relay – Ubelaker ran a 51.52 second leg – and the Bulldogs finished fifteenth in Class 1A. This fall, that speed could again lead to a big year for Osborne.

Wallace County’s Dalton Walker In junior high, Dalton Walker started to realize the importance of the weight room.

Partially on his own, but partially at the urging of Wallace County coach Kevin Ayers, one of Kansas’ top coaches.

“He inspired me a lot to keep working hard in the weight room,” Walker said.

“It’s really a great experience (playing for him), and you don’t just learn things for football. It also helps kind of teach you life lessons, too.”

The early weight room work formed a foundation for Walker, now one of EightMan, Division II’s top linemen entering his senior year.

Last fall, Walker, the Wildcats’ biggest returning player at 5-foot-9, 215 pounds, collected 40 tackles as the starting center/nose guard and led the classification’s No. 1 scoring defense with eight tackles for loss and four fumble recoveries.

He collected first team all-league honors on defense and second team on offense for a squad that finished 10-1, allowed just over nine points a game and lost to Kensington-Thunder Ridge in the sub-state championship game.

DERBY PANTHERS / Continued from page 5

The 6-foot-2, 205-pound Young runs 4.47 seconds in the 40-yard dash, has a 220-pound bench press and can squat 390. He also carries a 3.5 GPA, according to Rivals.com. The 6-1, 200-pound West can run a 4.6 40 with a 240 bench, 400 squat, 34 inch vertical and 3.5 GPA. West received his first offer from Army, but is uncertain whether he will attend West Point.

“It’s a lot of leadership,” he said.

Delgado, who recorded 107 tackles and 21 tackles for loss as a sophomore and 119 tackles and 16 for loss last year, has run 4.46 seconds in the 40-yard dash. He has yet to receive a D-I offer, but has considerable measurables: 310 bench, 480 squat, 31 vertical, 3.5 GPA. “My speed and my ability,” Delgado said of his greatest strengths. “My D-line helped me out a lot. They don’t get enough credit for what they do to open up tackles for me. That’s honestly what helped me out the most.”

Tight end Deandre Goolsby is rated No. 5 among tight ends by Rivals and offensive lineman Cole Hansen has also received a scholarship offer from Air Force. Goolsby, Hansen, punter Kavan Mack, Delgado and Young earned first team all-league honors last year, while West was second team. Goolsby was KPreps.com all-state for a team that finished third in the final state rankings. The talented group carries the motto “Unfinished Business” into the year.

Young had played wideout and linebacker earlier in his career, but moved to safety as a sophomore. In his first game, he collected an interception for a score and “just kept rolling” from there. He finished with 60 tackles, 12 for loss, five sacks, three interceptions and two fumble recoveries. West rushed for 1,244 yards as a sophomore. He has averaged 6.6 yards per carry in his career.

Last year, Derby lost 29-28 to Hutchinson in the sub-state game when the Salthawks scored a touchdown and converted the two-point conversion in the final minute.

“It was unexplainable,” Delgado said. “We didn’t really know what happened.

Coaches, we were just let down. We thought we could get them.”

“It kind of makes you want more, so it has made us work that much harder this year to get to where we want to be,” Young said.

Conor Nicholl is a sports reporter for the Hays Daily News in Hays, Kan.

“He has steadily improved,” Ayers, 140-26 in his coaching career with three state titles, said. “Some kids peak, some kids hit that plateau. He is a kid who has just steadily improved, both on the field and in the weight room. He is a kid, who technique-wise, is extremely solid at both places, on the football field, and the weight room. It means a lot to him to do things right, and he knows that’s going to get better results in both. He really locks down the techniques and the mental aspects in both.”

Walker won the KEMFA state powerlifting championship at 220 pounds in Claflin this spring. He totaled 1,015 pounds in the three lifts. Walker took second in bench with 300 pounds, first with a 305-pound clean and second with a 410-pound squat and helped the Wildcats win their third straight boys’ team championship.

All three of those marks are also school records. His teammate, Logan Hinkle, took second at 870 pounds.

In 2012, Wallace County also won the state title and Walker was fourth in the 198-pound class with 895 combined pounds. The girls finished sixth. In 2011, the Wildcats took both the boys and girls’ titles. The Wildcats also won the 2008 boys’ title.

The weight room is a key reason why Wallace County won a state title in girls’ basketball two years ago, took fourth in the boys’ basketball state tournament last winter and have made the postseason all seven years under Ayers, including the 2007 state title. In the western half, only Victoria has a longer postseason streak among eight-man teams with 11 straight appearances.

The team lifts at 6 a.m. during the summer, and Ayers uses the West Side Barbell as his template. Ayers runs the summer weight program, but decided to take on farming full-time in addition to coaching. Ayers has done some CrossFit for several years, too.

“Moving heavy weight, and a lot of dynamic moving weight with speed, being explosive is what it comes down to, and it’s something the kids have bought into,” Ayers said. “The CrossFit is still a component there. That is such a broad term anymore. People say, ‚ÄòIs that CrossFit?’ Well, CrossFit is a broad term, and works on max strength and of course your explosiveness, your speed and your conditioning.

That’s what everybody tries to do with their football programs. But our base lifts are based off of the West Side barbell.”

Jeff Hennick, the all-state quarterback on the ‘07 team, played some college football and graduated in May. He will help assist Ayers in football and summer weights and will take over Ayers’ weights and P.E. classes during school.

“It’s great,” Walker said. “He is a really strong influence, really great at motivating.”

Ayers and Hennick and assistant Dennis Gfeller pilot a program that returns six offensive and five defensive starters, including the entire defensive line in Walker and senior ends Clay Schemm (team-high 7.5 sacks) and Callahan Grund (5.5 sacks).

Schemm was also first team all-league and Grund was honorable mention.

“Very intelligent and very hungry and have some athletic ability to go along with it,” Ayers said. “When you find that, and they are seniors, we expect and are hoping for big things from them.”

As well, junior linebacker Nate Klinge was second team all-league and senior defensive back Kyle Gfeller was a first team selection. In the last two years, Wallace County is 18-4 and has finished sixth and first in the classification in scoring defense, collectively allowing 12 points a game. Outside of Walker, no returning starter weighs more than 180 pounds.

“We kind of lack in size normally, but we really just try to get all eight players to the ball every play,” Walker said. “That’s also part of the reason why we as a team try to be in the weight room everyday, because we know we are smaller than a lot of other teams, so we’ve just got to work harder and be stronger.”

LYNDON TIGERS / Continued from page 10

scores and their entire offensive line, including all-stater Dakota Jiskra, but bring back Walsh, Owens and wideout Cameron Woodruff.

Walsh completed 99 of 167 passes for 1,395 yards with a 13/6 TD/INT ratio and Woodruff caught 40 passes for 650 yards and seven scores. Walsh also rushed for 778 yards and 13 scores. Owens had an injury-plagued season, but collected 736 rushing yards in just over seven games.

Woodruff will handle the punting, while Walsh, like his older brother Nick, returns as the kicker. Nick Walsh was all-everything for Lyndon and played in the 2012 Shrine Bowl. Joe was always impressed with his brother’s work ethic and talent, and wanted to work just as hard.

“Wanted to be just as good as him or better,” Joe said. “I don’t want to live in his shadow.”

The foundation started when the players start lifting in sixth grade. Owens, though, admitted the players didn’t see “the big picture” until the eighth grade.

At the Class 2A state powerlifting championships this spring, Lyndon had five boys finish in the top five and two girls in the top two. Owens and Walsh didn’t compete in all the events. Owens took fourth in the 198-pound class in bench press with a lift of 240 pounds. Walsh was sixth in the 220-pound class in bench press at 220 pounds and sixth in clean at 250 pounds.

Stallbaumer said late in the summer those numbers had improved to 255 in the bench, 335 in squat, an incredible 305 in the clean with a 4.92 40 yard dash and 33 inch vertical for Walsh and a 250 bench, 380 squat, 285 clean, and 4.6 electronically timed 40 for Owens.

The weight room work has formed the team’s strengths for 2013. In his preseason information guide, Stallbaumer wrote “return a lot of experience in the skill positions,” and “strong players” as the team’s positives. The negatives included replacing the offensive line with starters and quality depth, areas the weight room can provide huge dividends.

“Everything we do, we take pride in, especially all the hard work in the weight room and just all the time we put in for 7-on-7, even basketball,” Owens said.

Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

Page 63

Class 8-Man I ■ By Conor Nicholl For Kansas Pregame

In most seasons, the teams that played for the state championship the year before are ranked near the top in the preseason polls. However, that’s not the case in Eight-Man, Division I, a classification traditionally known for big change on a year-to-year basis.

Ness City went 13-0 and completed one of the most dominating seasons in Kansas eight-man football history in 2012. The Eagles blew out every opponent and finished in the top-three nationally in margin of victory. The program had eight-man’s best scoring defense (71 points allowed) since preppowerindex.com started to track the statistic in 2006.

Ness City graduated all but one starter, Trevor Hawkins, who led the team with 27 catches and seven receiving TDs. Teams generally take a big tumble with one or fewer starters returning, especially at the eight-man level. Ashland went 9-1 in 2011, brought back zero starters, and fell to 1-8 last fall. Downs-Lakeside went 11-1 in 2011, returned two offensive starters and one on defense, and fell to 2-7.

But Bamberger, who developed his coaching style by watching Wallace County’s Kevin Ayers and K-State’s Bill Snyder, both of whom he played for, (Ayers while at Jetmore), expects the Eagles to continue the tradition of success developed over the last three seasons.

“Our senior leadership will be our biggest key to our success,” coach Bamberger said.

Four years ago Bamberger took over a team that just ended its cooperative 11-man agreement with Dighton. No one had played eightman football. The Eagles opened 1-3 in Bamberger’s first season – and is 25-4 since.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Rock Hills reached its first final in school history last fall, but lost veteran coach Sam Meyers when he became school principal. Assistant coach Curt Christians remained on staff and first-year coach Brock McMillan took over. The Grizzlies graduated all-state running back Clay Cosand and lineman Wyatt Flinn and its top-six tacklers, but junior Joel Broeckelman rushed 133 times for 1,343 yards and scored 32 touchdowns. He is one of three Rock Hills players with returning experience.

Madison is likely the favorite to win its third title in four years. The Bulldogs captured Eight-Man, Division I crowns in 2010 and ‘11 and lost to Rock Hills in the sub-state championship game last season.

Running back Dallas Thompson returns after he collected all-state honors. Thompson had several big games, including a seven-TD, 330-yard rushing performance in a 59-42 victory against rival Lebo, but broke his leg in the first round of the playoffs against Pike Valley.

The 6-foot-1, 210-pounder has ran a 4.85 40-yard dash, according to Hudl.

Out west, no one returns more than Atwood-Rawlins County, which finished 7-2 and had no seniors on the roster. Many believe the Buffs are the west’s most talented team.

The Buffs winning record, however, was not dominate.

Rawlins County scored just 254 points – only 14 teams scored fewer. No Eight-Man, Division I team that finished with a winning record scored under 306. But the Buffs’ 222 points allowed ranked tenthbest. Senior quarterback Dylan Tiemeyer (1,179 total yards), senior running back Michael Capo (852 rushing yards) and junior Rhett Mizer (102 tackles) pace Rawlins County, a program in just its second year of eight-man. Rawlins County

DALLAS THOMPSON

Photo by Marion McReynolds

Photo courtesy Gordon Smith

6-1, 215, SR, RB/LB, MADISON

TREVOR HAWKINS

MASON DEMARS

Photo courtesy Everett Royer, ksportsimages.com

Photo by Marion McReynolds

6-0, 175, SR, TE/DB, NESS CITY

will have strong tests KPREPS.COM PRESEASON RANKINGS in its district from Ness City, rival Hoxie 1. Madison (7-3, with a blowout 2. Solomon win against the Buffs 3. Kiowa County to clinch a playoff 4. Marais des Cygnes Valley berth last year), and 5. Osborne Quinter, which returns every defensive Others: Rawlins County, Clifton-Clyde, Hoxie, Rock Hills, Lebo, Macksville, Osborne, Quinter, Udall starter.

“Along with staying healthy, our biga 6-4 season in senior end Matt gest key to a successful season Jones, junior lineman Mitch Saffle is doing the little things right in all and senior running back Kaden aspects of the game,” coach Deone Vanderpool.

Horinek said. “We must be better at For the fourth straight year, Osindividual assignments, especially borne has the offensive firepower blocking on the line of scrimmage.” to make a deep run, but its defense Last season Solomon had a has hurt them in big games. six-win improvement from 2011 The Bulldogs made back-to-back finishing 10-2 and losing to Ness sub-state championship game trips City in the sub-state game. The in 2010 and ‘11, but went 6-3 last Gorillas return quarterback Colton fall and missed the playoffs in a Shirack, who threw for 859 yards competitive district that included with a 13/8 TD/INT ratio and rushed Pike Valley, Clifton-Clyde (6-2) and for 1,208 yards and eight scores.

Rock Hills. Osborne scored at least But the Gorillas graduated all-state 36 points in all but one game, but receiver/returner Josh Burdine. went 1-3 when it allowed at least 50 Kiowa County has great talent, points. The Bulldogs return running including senior Trever Powell, an backs Kenton Ubelaker (2,140 all-state defensive back, and two all-purpose yards), Maverick Lerock big sophomore linemen in Aaron (933 total yards) and quarterback Heft (5-10, 260) and Erik Torres Jake Tiernan (1,190 yards).

(5-10, 270).

Macksville finished 4-5 against the Powell rushed for 1,408 yards and second-hardest strength of sched30 scores and picked up 113 tackule, according to preppowerindex. les and eight interceptions in his com, and brings back Tanner Tranjunior season, most among Kansas barger, who rushed for 1,325 yards eight-man players. He was also an and passed for 1,021 yards. explosive kick returner accounting Clifton-Clyde, Hoxie, Lebo, for 318 kickoff return yards with an Quinter, and Udall all return key average of 22.71 yards per return personnel that could allow them to and 74 and 75 yard returns for make a run to the playoffs as well. touchdowns.

The Mavericks lost 54-42 to Solomon in the first round of the playoffs to finish 6-4 last season and are 13-15 under coach Clint Young who enters his fourth season at the helm.

Marais des Cygnes Valley brings back three all-state players from

In addition to the players featured on the cover and inside back cover, these players are just a few of the best to keep an eye on in 8-Man DI this fall.

TREVER POWELL

5-9, 160, SR, RB/LB, KIOWA COUNTY

overview

6-0, 172, SR, RB/S, SOLOMON

Mark Aylward.......... 6-0, 200, Sr, LB, Solomon

William Ohlde......... 6-0, 160, Sr, WR/DB/KR, Clifton-Clyde

Joel Brockelman..... 5-8, 150, Jr, RB, Rock Hills

Cody Savage............ 6-3, 185, Sr, QB, Canton-Galva

Michael Capo........... 5-10, 173, Sr, RB/S, Rawlins County

Max Schwab............. 5-9, 200, Sr, LB, Clifton-Clyde

Chanse Copple......... 5-10, 160, Sr, QB, Rock Hills

Colton Shirack......... 6-2, 200, Sr, QB/DB, Solomon

Colton Corwin.......... 6-0, 160, Sr, RB/DB, Quinter

Tanner Tranbarger. 5-11, 155, Sr, QB, Macksville

Caleb DeNoon.......... 5-8, 160, Sr, RB, Yates Center

Kaden Vanderpool.. 5-11, 160, Sr, RB, MdCV

Devin Ghumm......... 6-2, 200, Sr, RB/LB, Trego Community

Dean Wade.............. 6-7, 175, Jr, WR, St. John

Cameron Ginther.... 6-2, 226, Sr, TE/DE, Rawlins County

Keenan Westerman.......5-11, 170, Jr, QB, Wakefield

Maverick LeRock..... 6-2, 205, Sr, RB/DB, Osborne

J.T. Yunker................ 5-10, 160, Sr, RB/KR, South Haven

Brought to you by this Crawford County attraction: ■ By Mark Schremmer For Kansas Pregame

Butch Jones cherishes his opportunity to coach his son Matt in football and track and field, but he also acknowledges that it can be difficult at times.

“I think anybody will tell you that when you’re coaching your boys there’s always that much more pressure,” Coach Jones said. “There’s always more attention put on that relationship.

All the other kids hear it at practice, but he hears it at home and on the way home. It never goes away.”

The father and son combo hopes to direct the Trojans to another winning season after finishing 6-4 and advancing to the first round of the 8-Man Division I playoffs in 2012.

Matt Jones, a 6-foot-6 linebacker and receiver, earned all-state honorable mentions in football and basketball last year. He finished 12th in the discus and the javelin at Class 2A state track this past spring.

Butch Jones enters his second season as the Marais des Cygnes Valley head coach. He previously led Lebo for 25 years and has coached for 34 seasons overall.

He is used to coaching his sons as he coached Matt’s older brothers, Scott and Blake, while at Lebo. Scott and Blake both went on to play college football. Matt’s older sister, Deidra Jones, is a catcher on Washburn University’s softball team.

“This is my third son I’ve coached,” Coach Jones said. “You expect more out of them. Consequently on the field, they know more because they are around it all the time.

“When you have older brothers, they grow up on the field and they grow up in the gym. They’re around it more. They just become more of an athlete because of that.”

For the most part, Matt said he enjoys the experience and the ability to spend more time talking football.

“It’s fun,” he said. “You get to talk to him at home, whether it be about football or what we’re trying to accomplish this season.

However, Coach Jones admits it can be a lot to put on a 17-year-old kid at times.

“They learn what’s going on and what to expect,” he said.

“When you’re watching film, they’re watching film. It’s kind of a unique situation. It’s fun most of the time, but it’s not always fun. Because you got to remember, you still got to go home and sleep with his mother. Sometimes you got to back off a little, because it’s still Mom’s boy.”

Coach Jones has been able to spend more time with his sons than the average father, but the situation also prevents him from enjoying the games like an average parent would.

“It’s amazing,” he said. “You miss a lot of things. I do track and football with him. I’ve probably only seen him throw the discus twice this year, because I got races going on, high jumpers going on. The same thing happens in football.

Other parents are watching their kids play and you’re watching the game.

You’re coaching the game. You may see your son make a play now and then, but you don’t really notice things until you watch the film. Man, I miss a lot of things he does.”

He has seen enough to realize Matt Jones has developed into a solid all-around athlete. Matt’s height and lanky build has served him well in basketball and track and field. And it also causes major matchup problems for opposing 8-Man defenses.

“In 8-Man, it’s hard to find kids this tall,” Matt said. “It’s been a big advantage.

When you go for two, you just throw it up and it’s an easy two points.”

Matt Jones had 32 catches for 403 yards and seven touchdowns last season. Defensively, he registered 53 solo tackles, 67 assisted tackles and two interceptions.

Coach Jones said the Trojans will use Matt in a variety of ways this season.

“He has a lot of things that are pretty cool for him,” Coach Jones said. “He’s a well-rounded player. He’s on the field all night long. He’s going to play linebacker … He’s going to be a tight end. He’s going to be a wide receiver.

He’s going to kick the ball off. He’s going to go down on punt coverage.”

Matt Jones said he plans on continuing to participate in athletics at the college level.

“Football is my first priority,” he said. “If that doesn’t work out, I will fall back on basketball or track.”

Coach Jones said Matt has had some talks with Butler Community College, Northwest Missouri State, Emporia State, Kansas State and Ottawa.

For now though, Matt said he is focused on having a good season and helping the Trojans return to the playoffs.

“The biggest expectation is to get a home playoff date,” Matt said. “It’s been 20 years since they’ve had one, and it would be the biggest thing to try and do this year.”

In addition to Matt, the Trojans should return all-state lineman Mitch Saffle and all-state running back Kaden Vanderpool.

“We’re pretty solid,” Coach Jones said. “Our top 10 will be pretty good, but the problem is that we don’t have much depth. Injuries could really hurt us this year. So we got to stay healthy. As long as we’re healthy, we’re going to be pretty solid.”

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

Page 65

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One of the more intriguing eight-man teams this year, Rawlins County enjoyed a three-win improvement in its first season of playing eight-man football last fall. The Buffs, with no seniors, won their first seven games, but had victories by eight, two, two and 18 points. Then, Atwood finished the year with a 48-0 loss to eventual state champion Ness City, and a 54-8 defeat against rival Hoxie to miss the playoffs.

“They have spent a lot more time in the weight room than in the past few years, so we hope to be a lot more physical this fall,” coach Deone Horinek said. “Coaches and players have very high expectations for the season, and we will work very hard to make them happen. We really hope that we win league and districts and make a deep run in the playoffs.”

Senior running back Michael Capo returns after he rushed 154 times for 852 yards and 13 scores. Senior quarterback Dylan Tiemeyer completed 34 of 78 passes for 600 yards with a 3/4 TD/INT ratio and added 105 carries for 579 yards and seven scores. Junior running back Neil Portschy had 90 carries for 498 yards and seven TDs. Senior wideout James Peterson used 6-foot-3 frame to haul in 21 catches for 461 yards and three TDs. Junior Rhett Mizer paced the defense last season with 102 tackles, including two for loss.

In recent memory, perhaps no Kansas coach is better at turnarounds than Jeff Savage. He took over a Bushton-Quivira Heights squad after a 1-8 season in 2006 and then led the Thunderbirds to a 9-3 record in 2007 and a 9-2 mark in 2008. Then, he went to Burden-Central, which had four wins in the previous five years combined. In 2009, he led a five-win improvement to 7-3. In 2010, he paced the program to a 7-4 record.

In 2011, Central Burden went 9-2. Savage’s son, Bo, set national records for single season and career passing TDs in the eight-man ranks.

Central Burden won three straight district titles after it had one winning season in 23 years.

Last year, Savage took his wide-open offense to Canton-Galva, a squad that had one senior and played in a difficult district. The Eagles finished 3-6.

“We were very young and inexperienced playing in a senior-laden district that was loaded.

We were in survival mode,” Savage said. “To make the matter even worse, several key players were injured, and we were forced to juggle our lineup and scheme virtually every week.”

Savage expects to have 36 players out and will have a faster and more physical squad this year. His son, Cody, will return at quarterback after he was injured for part of last season. His dad believes Cody could be “as talented” as any Kansas player.

Senior lineman Trevor Unruh is also a key player for a team that is looking for its first playoff berth since 2007.

The Oilers had a five-win decrease after a 9-2 season and sub-state appearance in 2011. Part of the reason was Central Plains finished minus-4 in turnover margin. The previous year, the Oilers were plus-4 in turnover margin. Central Plains started 2-4 and then pulled off three close wins, a 22-14 victory against Lincoln, a 56-52 upset of Solomon and then a 38-34 loss to Little River.

Senior Chris Woolf is back after he led the team with 132 carries for 630 yards and seven scores. Senior Colton Zink (22 catches, 359 yards, two scores) and junior Layne Bieberle (19 catches, 337 yards, six TDs) return.

Central Plains did graduate quarterback Bryce Steiner, who completed 62 of 136 passes for 922 yards with 11 touchdowns against 10 interceptions.

Coach Chris Steiner would like to “be competitive” in the tough Central Prairie League and make it out of a tough district in the playoffs and “be consistent every week.”

“We have to enter the season healthy and strong,” Steiner said. “ We had so many players out last year with injuries that we have to make sure every player on our team is as strong and quick as they can be and be ready to play anywhere at anytime.”

After five straight seasons of eight or more wins – including the last four of at least 10 victories – Clifton-Clyde has posted marks of 7-3, 7-2 and 6-2 the last three years. The Eagles have missed the playoffs the last two falls. Last year, Clifton-Clyde missed several key players and lost 34-14 to Pike Valley on Sept. 14. The following week, the Eagles showed their talent with a 42-24 victory against Mankato-Rock Hills, eventually the Eight-Man, Division I state runner-up. However, a 66-56 loss to Osborne on Oct. 12 kept Clifton-Clyde from the postseason.

As well, Clifton-Clyde had trouble filling its schedule last year with just eight games, including one forfeit. That’s changed some this year with a Week 1 contest against Kenesaw, Neb. and a Week 9 game versus Wichita Word of Life.

Clifton-Clyde graduated all-state selections Blake Quillen and Alex Deaver, who set the team’s eight-man record with 4,423 career rushing yards and 76 rushing scores. Coach Russ Steinbrock has set goals to make the playoffs, have a 10-win season and play for a state title.

Caleb Gelino returns after he has already thrown for 954 passing yards, third-most in Eagle eight-man history. Senior linebacker Max Schwab broke the school eight-man mark for tackles with 169 last year, 64 more than any other player. He also holds the record for career tackles with 263 “Our numbers in our Jr. and So. class will be small so keeping our seniors healthy will be vital,” Steinbrock said of the team’s keys. “We also need to find a way to get our underclassmen varsity experience to help give us needed depth.”

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7-2 in 2012 / 3-2 in district / 8-Man I Northwest Kansas League Coach: Deone Horinek (4th year, 16-12) Assistants: Mike Lankas, Andrew Melia, Aaron Sramek Offense: I Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 13 Returning starters: 8 Offense, 8 Defense Macrae Migchelbrink, QB/DB, 5-9, 128, Jr..; Rhett Mizer, OL/LB, 5-8, 140, Jr.; Dylan Tiemeyer, QB/DB, 6-1, 165, Sr.; Jonathan Markland, OL/DB, 5-10, 162, Sr.; Dakota Steinke, OL/DB, 5-10, 181, Sr.; Michael Capo, RB/DB, 5-10, 173, Sr.; Neil Portschy, RB/DB, 5-10, 172, Jr.; Shelton McCain, OL/DL, 5-9, 149, So.; Cameron Ginther, OL/DL, 6-2, 226, Sr.; James Peterson, TE/DE, 6-3, 182, Sr. Conor Nicholl

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4-5 in 2012 / 3-2 in district / 8-Man I Central Prairie League Coach: Chris Steiner (3rd year, 13-7; 4th overall, 14-15) Assistants: Brandon Wise, Seth Rolfs Offense: Multiple Defense: 3-2 Returnin Multiple lettermen: 3-2 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 5 Defense 3-6 in 2012 / 0-5 in district / 8-Man I Colton Zink, FB/LB, 5-9, 183, Sr.; Layne Bieberle, WR/S, Heart of America 6-0, 150, Jr; Evan Liebl, OL/DE, 6-0, 185, Sr.; Meritt Coach: Jeff Savage (2nd year, 3-6; 31st overall) Hammeke, RB/CB, 5-6, 152, Sr.; Cody Price, OL/LB, Offense: Air Raid Defense: 3-2 5-11, 165, So. 6-2 in 2012 / 4-2 in district / 8-Man I Returning lettermen: 20 Conor Nicholl Twin Valley League Returning starters: 8 Offense, 10 Defense Coach: Russ Steinbrock (13th year, 77-44) Cody Savage, QB/FS, 6-3, 185, Sr.; Jake Struber, C/ Assistants: Gary Carlson, Larry Bloomfield NG, 5-9, 215, Sr.; Austin Bullinger, WR/CB, 6-1, 170, Sr.; Dave Hickel Joe Dreiling Offense: Single Wing Defense: 3-2 Trevor Unruh, OG/DE, 6-2, 220, Sr.; Kaden Littrell, OG, Returning lettermen: 7 6-1, 225, Sr.; Tanner Klingensmith, LB, 5-9, 175, Jr.; Trey Returning starters: 5 Offense, 6 Defense Moddelmog, RB, 5-11, 165, Jr.; Ryan Grant, LB, 5-9, Max Schwab, OL/LB, 5-9, 165, Sr.; Caleb Gelino, RB/ 160, Jr.; Travis Unruh, RB/DB, 5-10, 170, So.; Kendrick QB/LB/DB, 5-11, 175, Sr.; William Ohlde, WR/DB, 6-0, Bandy, OL/DL, 6-1, 250, Jr.; Brody Scott, LB, 5-9, 190, 160, Sr.; Austin Biggerstaff, WR/DB, 5-8, 150, Sr.; Cortne So.; Ethan Loyd, DB, 5-11, 150, So.; Chris Miller, DB, Vancampen, NG, 5-8, 145, Sr.; Logan Newell, C/DL, 5-11, 150, So. Conor Nicholl 5-10, 185, Sr.; Jonathan Sparks, OL/DL, 6-0, 270, Sr. 115 2nd St • PO Box 347 • Claflin, KS 67525 • Ph: 620-587-3422 Conor Nicholl

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COLDWATER-SOUTH CENTRAL TIMBERWOLVES South Central played the easiest 8-Man I schedule out of the 52 teams in the classification, according to preppowerindex.com. The Timberwolves started 3-0 with victories by a combined score of 144-14. Then, South Central finished the season 1-5 with multiple close losses. It marked the fourth straight year South Central and had a sub-.500 record and missed the playoffs.

The Timberwolves posted three narrow losses including a Week 4 loss against Fairfield (42-38), Week 5 versus Kiowa County (38-30) and Week 8 against Kinsley (34-22). This year, coach Matt Smith returns four offensive and five defensive starters, including quarterback Stetsen Underwood and running back Coby Lindsay.

Underwood completed 37 of 66 passes for 621 yards with a 9/7 TD/INT ratio and rushed 145 times for 873 yards and 11 scores in his second year as a starter. For his career, Underwood has accounted for 1,155 passing yards, 1,527 rushing yards and 36 TDs (16 pass, 20 rush).

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Lindsay rushed 126 times for 1,052 times and 13 scores for a team that outscored opponents 348-262.

Coach Smith listed seven non-seniors as players to watch, including four sophomores and one freshman in running back/linebacker Gerald Moorehead.

Smith said his goals are to “continue to get better everyday and stay injury-free.”

“Will have good leaders coming back to help with our development of our underclassmen,” Smith said.

Downs-Lakeside had a talented, veteran group that went 19-3 combined in 2010 and ’11 before the Knights graduated virtually everyone and had a new coach in Kody Tegtmeier last year.

The Knights had just two offensive and one defensive starters back and went 2-7. This year, Downs-Lakeside has just one starter back, senior offensive lineman Sage Schlaefli.

Coach Tegtmeier has set goals to be above .500, make gains and improvements from week to week and make the postseason playoffs.

Last year, opponents outscored Lakeside 371172. Lakeside did defeat Chase, an eventual 4-5 in 2012 / 1-4 in district / 8-Man I postseason team, 44-34, in Week 2 and started Southern Plain Iroquois the year 2-2, but then finished the year with five Coach: Matt Smith (8th year) straight losses. Three of the defeats came by 32 Assistants: N/A or more points, one defeat came by 20 points Offense: I Defense: 3-3 and another loss came 17-14 to Scandia-Pike Returning lettermen: 11 Valley in Week 6.

Returning starters: 4 Offense, 5 Defense Stetsen Underwood, QB/DB, Sr.; Coby Lindsay, RB/LB, “We will be very young and inexperienced Sr.; Nate Brooks, TE/DE, Sr.; Koy Alexander, TE/DB, Jr.; again this season,” he said. “Execution will be Cole Lohrding, DE, So. the biggest key for us this fall. We will not be Conor Nicholl the biggest, fastest, or strongest team on the

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2-7 in 2012 / 1-5 in district / 8-Man I Northern Plains League Coach: Kody Tegtmeier (2nd year, 2-7) Assistants: Drew Duskie, Travis Eberle Offense: Option Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 7 Returning starters: 1 Offense, 0 Defense Sage Schlaefli, OL, 6-0, 260, Sr.

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Kiowa County enjoyed a three-win improvement and reached the playoffs for the first time in the program’s third year. This year, the Mavericks are among Eight-Man, Division I’s top teams. Kiowa County lost 54-42 to Solomon in the first round of the postseason, but outscored opponents 406-268. The previous year, opponents outscored the Mavericks 413-342.

Senior Trever Powell had 203 carries for 1,408 yards and 30 scores last year and finished with 113 tackles, second-highest on the team and most among returning starters. He also picked off eight passes, most among Kansas eight-man players, according to maxpreps.com.

Rustin Ardery graduated after led the team with 114 tackles, 14.5 tackles for loss.

Coach C.T. Young wants to see improvement in several areas: play better at home, play great special teams, get better every day, let the wins and losses take care of themselves, and play well enough to finish at the top of the district.

Last year, Kiowa County was 2-3 at home, 4-1 on the road. Kiowa County struggled on defending kickoff returns against Solomon, allowing 179 yards on seven returns.

Young said the team’s keys to success are avoiding injuries, replacing some key senior exits, keep getting better on defense, not counting on offense to win games, and taking care of the football and limiting our mental mistakes.

Just two years removed from the Eight-Man, Division I championship game, the Ringnecks tumbled to a winless season under first-year coach Scott Schulz, a Hill City graduate. However, Hill City lost three games by eight points or fewer. Three of the final five opponents made the playoffs and the last three squads all finished with winning records. Hill City played the No. 15 strength of schedule out of 52 EightMan, Division I teams.

“We were learning as we were going,” Schulz said. “We played a lot of freshmen and sophomores last year, and they kind of grew up throughout the season. Our problem, was our season got tougher and tougher.”

Hill City had to move to a 5-1 defense because of some personnel problems and switched quarterbacks midway through the year. Ethan Gansel took over under the center in Week 7 after he was the junior varsity signal caller. Hill City moved Deric McKeever, an athletic player, from QB out to the edge. McKeever is expected to play wideout and some in the backfield this season, and Gansel returns at quarterback.

The Ringnecks bring back six offensive and five defensive starters, but just two are seniors – both on the line.

Almena-Northern Valley called when Palco and Logan decided to co-op this season and Hill City will play host to Northern Valley in Week 3.

Hoxie delivered back-to-back 6-3 seasons without playoff appearances before it broke through with a 7-3 season and qualified for the playoffs with a 54-8 Week 9 winner-take-all victory against rival Atwood. Then, the Indians lost 50-12 to Jetmore-Hodgeman County in the first round of the playoffs. Hoxie played the No. 5-hardest strength of schedule in Eight-Man, Division I, according to preppowerindex.com.

Hoxie had several quality wins, including Atwood, Otis-Bison (56-22), and at WaKeeney-Trego in triple overtime (34-28). Hoxie also had relatively close losses against two teams that went a combined 23-1 in Wallace County (20-6) and Ness City (38-6).

Hoxie returns five offensive and four defensive starters, including senior quarterback Chase Kennedy, who completed 63 of 120 passes for 752 yards with an 8/7 TD/INT ratio and 126 carries for 587 yards and 13 TDs, all teamhighs. Junior Connor Katt rushed 68 times for 543 yards and seven TDs. Hoxie did graduate all-state lineman Brandon Salmans, who led the team with 106 tackles, 38 more than any other player.

Coach Lance Baar said much of the success will be determined by the returning starters.

Staying healthy will also be key for Hoxie.

“Also keeping the feeling of a first round playoff loss in the back of their mind should fuel the fire,” Baar said. “It will also be key for our upperclassmen, especially the sophomore class to step up and accept much bigger roles on the team this year.”

Hodgeman County has posted three winning seasons and two playoff berths under coach Matt Housman. Last year, Hodgeman County defeated Hoxie 50-12 in the first round of the playoffs and then lost 22-18 to Solomon in the second round. This year, the Longhorns graduated 12 seniors, all but two of them were full-time starters. The class had always provided the quarterback, fullback, secondary and kickers under Housman.

Lineman Zach Shiew was a first team allleague player last year and is expected to anchor the lines again. Brennan Harms played on the other side of the line. Housman listed several goals for the season: make it out of district, fewer turnovers, have to convert on short yardage and be great blockers and tacklers.

“It is always important to stay healthy, and this year will be no different with a lot of new faces on the field for us,” Housman said.

6-4 in 2012 / 4-2 in district / 8-Man I Southern Plains Iroquois Coach: Clint Young (4th year, 13-15; 8th overall, 38-33) Assistants: Steve Heft, Peter Kern Offense: Multiple Defense: 3-5 Returning lettermen: 9 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 5 Defense Trever Powell, RB/S, 5-9, 180, Sr.; Evan Jacks, OL/LB, 5-9, 180, Sr.; John Terhune, OL/DL, 6-1, 215, Sr.; Aaron Heft, E/DL, 5-10, 260, So.; Erik Torres, E/DL, 5-10, 270, So. Conor Nicholl

0-8 in 2012 / 0-3 in district / 8-Man I Mid-Continent League Coach: Scott Schulz (2nd year, 0-8) Assistants: Kyle Jilka, Vince Walker Offense: I-formation Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 10 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 5 Defense Ethan Gansel, QB, Jr.; Clay Money, FB/LB, So.; Deric McKeever, WR/DE, Jr.; Mekhai Bates, WR/TE, So.; Greg Billips, G/LB, Sr.; Kade Tremblay, G/NG, So.; Jacob Edgell, DE, Sr. Conor Nicholl

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7-3 in 2012 / 4-1 in district / 8-Man I Northwest Kansas League Coach: Lance Baar (5th year, 21-16) Assistants: J.R. Kaiser Offense: N/A Defense: N/A Returning lettermen: 8 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 4 Defense Chase Kennedy, QB/DB, 5-8, 150, Sr.; Mitchel Johnson, C/DL, 6-4, 200, Sr.; Tyler Kaus, TE, 5-11, 160, Sr.; Tanner Smith, G/DE, 6-5, 190, Jr.; Tyler Ewers, TE, 6-2, 185, Jr.; Connor Katt, DB, 5-9, 150, Jr. Conor Nicholl

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KINSLEY COYOTES Kinsley posted back-to-back 5-4 seasons, the school’s first winning seasons in 17 years. This year, coach Jeff Chambers wants the Coyotes to “be in position to make playoffs” by year’s end.

Kinsley hasn’t made the playoffs since it reached the second round in 1993 to complete four straight years of the postseason.

“Got to have a number of kids step up and mature and play key roles in our system,” coach Jeff Chambers said. “We have some freshman that will have to play key roles and we have to work hard this summer to prepare.”

Kinsley graduated quarterback Nathan Frame (1,478 passing yards) and running back Tyson Espinosa (1,356 rushing yards) and leading receiver Gustavo Chavez (871 receiving). Defensively, Anthony Avery also graduated after he collected a team-high six sacks. Espinosa, Frame and Chavez were the top three tacklers.

8-3 in 2012 / 5-0 in district / 8-Man I Southern Plains Iroquois Coach: Matt Housman (3rd year, 22-8; 4th year, 28-11) Assistant: Britt Ewy Offense: T Defense: 5-1 Returning lettermen: 6 Returning starters: 3 Offense, 2 Defense Zech Shiew, OL/DL, 6-2, 200, Sr.; Alex Kreger, RB, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Brennan Harms, OL/DL, 6-1, 235, Jr. Conor Nicholl

LEBO WOLVES

Among returners, senior Conner Frame leads the team with 43 tackles.

Kinsley played just eight games, but did have a forfeit victory against Word of Life in Week 7. Including the forfeit, the Coyotes won their last four games. Kinsley was outscored by an average margin of 42.3-38.3.

Lebo returns six starters on both sides of the ball from a squad that went 5-3 in 2012, and that experience has third-year coach Troy McArthur feeling good about his team.

“Offseason weights and conditioning is going well,” he said. “The 2013 season should be a good one for the Wolves.”

Lebo returns senior quarterback Jake Gould, 5-4 in 2012 / 3-3 in district / 8-Man I senior tight end Gunnar Milota, senior fullback Central Prairie League Brent Walford, senior tailback Garrett Holmes, Coach: Jeff Chambers (5th year, 20-23; 14th overall, and junior tight end Thane Barker, plus senior 104-67) Matt Miller and junior Bryan Gilmore on the Assistants: Jamie Castaneda offensive line.

Offense: Spread Defense: 4-2 Gould has seen varsity action since his Returning lettermen: 12 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 6 Defense freshman year, and several other Wolves had a Alonso Esparza, OL/DL, 6-0, 190, Sr.; Connor Frame, role in Lebo’s run to the state semifinals back RB/DB, 6-0, 150, Sr.; Cole McClaren, OL/DL, 6-0, 225, in 2010. Those returners will look to lead a new Sr.; Victor Ordaz, OL/DL, 6-0, 190, Sr.; Tyler Espinosa, Lebo squad back into the postseason.

QB/DB, 5-7, 140, Jr.; Michael Frazier, WR/DB, 5-9, 150, “Our goal is to go 1-0 every week and be Jr.; Brad Newsom, OL/DL, 6-0, 220, Jr. Conor Nicholl

playing into the playoffs,” McArthur said.

Defensively, the Wolves bring back Gilmore and Miller on the line, Barker at defensive end, and Holmes, Milota and Walford at linebacker.

“The seniors and returning starters need to step up and take leadership roles,” McArthur said.

“We will also need to be the most physical team on the field week in and week out.”

5-3 in 2012 / 4-2 in district / 8-Man I Lyon County League Coach: Troy McArthur (3rd year, 13-5) Assistants: Daniel Conrad, Dennis Becker Offense: I-formation Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: 13 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Jake Gould, QB, 5-11, 165, Sr.; Gunnar Milota, TE/OLB, 5-10, 170, Sr.; Thane Barker, TE/DE, 6-2, 175, Jr.; Brent Walford, FB/MLB, 6-3, 200, Sr.; Garrett Holmes, TB/OLB, 5-8, 165, Sr.; Matt Miller, G/DE, 5-11, 210, Sr.; Bryan Gilmore, C/NG, 5-9, 230, Jr. Melanie McGee

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

Page 68

14 YEARS OF FOOTBALL EXCELLENCE 8-Man Record 2000-2013 1 6 2 8 5 5 2

3-Rivers League Championship Lyon County League Championships Lyon County League Co-Championships District Championships Regional Championships Semi-final Appearances State Championships

Overall Record: 124-25

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LINCOLN LEOPARDS

LITTLE RIVER REDSKINS

MACKSVILLE MUSTANGS

MADISON/HAMILTON BULLDOGS

After three seasons of 5-4, 8-2 and 5-4 records, Lincoln posted its first losing season since 2008 and finished 4-5. The Leopards played the No. 14-hardest schedule out of 52 teams in Eight-Man, Division I, according to preppowerindex.com. Lincoln went 4-1 at home and 0-4 on the road and opponents outscored the Leopards 352-304. Lincoln started 3-1, including a victory against Pike Valley, an eventual playoff team, but struggled in district play with four straight losses before an 80-30 victory against Canton-Galva to end the season.

This fall, second-year coach Garry Lowry lists three keys to success: becoming better people, approaching every situation with the mindset of “Winning the Down,” and becoming smarter football players.

Lincoln will need to find a replacement for quarterback Dayton Walter, a three-year starter, running back Alex Jackson, and receiver Zach Streit. Last fall, Dayton’s younger brother Zach played well in a backup role as a freshman when he completed 12 of 24 passes for 117 yards with a 2/0 TD/INT ratio.

Turnovers will likely need to improve for the Leopards. Lincoln committed 21 turnovers last fall (nine INTs, 12 lost fumbles) and finished minus-9 in turnover margin.

Central-Burden, Atwood-Rawlins County and Little River were the lone Eight-Man, Division I teams to win seven games last season and not make the playoffs. However, Little River was the only one who didn’t even finish third in its district. Little River took fourth in District 5 behind Pretty Prairie, Solomon and Central Plains. Little River was plus-seven in district play, while Central Plains was plus-eight. Pretty Prairie won the district, while Solomon was runner-up and eventually made the sub-state championship game. A 26-8 loss to Pretty Prairie and a 52-6 defeat to Solomon were the lone blemishes, though the Redskins did have two wins by a combined six points.

This year, Little River is again in the same district with a young team. The Redskins haven’t won a playoff game since 2002. Little River will enter the season on a seven-game home winning streak. The Redskins have no returning player who rushed for more than 210 yards, had more than 150 receiving yards or collected more than 46 tackles.

“We hope to play Redskin physical/disciplined football and sneak into the playoffs out of our district which includes some very good teams,” coach Paul Dold said. “Injuries plagued us in 2012, so we will need to stay healthy and take advantage of any and all opportunities to get better and win games.”

Macksville fell back by six wins last season and missed the playoffs for the first time since 2004. The difference came in defense. In 2011, the Mustangs finished 10-1 with an average score of 48-26.1. Last year, Macksville averaged 35.8 points, but allowed 42.2 points and 364.4 yards per game.

This year, Tanner Tranbarger, one of Kansas’ top players, returns at quarterback. He rushed 237 times for 1,325 yards and 27 scores, and completed 59 of 141 passes for 1,021 yards and 12 TDs. He collected multiple honors, including unanimous first team all-league both ways and honorable mention all-state.

Last year, coach Jeff Kuckelman believed Macksville “relied heavily on QB run” and wants to develop some other threats this year.

The Mustangs had 119 passing yards and 170 rushing yards a game. Tranbarger also had 111 tackles, five for loss, four pass breakups, three interceptions and three forced fumbles.

Senior Jordan Welch missed part of last year because of injury and senior Simon Miller missed all of last year because of a preseason injury; both should be key contributors this year. Sophomore Austin McCauley had a strong freshman season and could move to tight end or line this fall.

Fourteen lettermen return for Madison, which is coming off a 10-2 season and a district championship.

The Bulldogs have six starters back from their defense, including junior linebacker Gavin Beyer, who picked off nine passes, and senior safety Sage Blubaugh (seven interceptions). Coach Fred McClain’s defense also returns defensive ends Owen Reed and Dallas Thompson, nose guard Hayden Serrer and cornerback Corey McClelland. Reed forced five fumbles and had five sacks as a sophomore, while Thompson tallied three sacks and two interceptions last season.

McClelland finished with 82 tackles and three interceptions in 2012 while Serrer recovered two fumbles plus had 49 tackles.

Offensively, Blubaugh and junior Dustin Stutesman both saw time at quarterback.

“Both were 5-1 last year as starters,” McClain said. “Throughout the summer and early fall, we will decide who will emerge as the starter.”

The Madison offense also returns Reed and Thompson in the backfield, Beyer at tight end and Serrer at center.

“We had an outstanding offseason and we’ve accomplished a lot as far as strength in the weight room, but the key is going to be the leadership we get from our upperclassmen,” McClain said.

4-5 in 2012 / 1-4 in district / 8-Man I Northern Plains League Coach: Garry Lowry (2nd year, 4-5) Assistants: John Baetz, Erik Dobbins Offense: Option Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 8 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 5 Defense Jerod Obermueller, TE/DB, 6-2, 180, Sr.; Joe Myers, RB/ DL, 5-10, 185, Sr.; Colton Panzer, OL/DL, 5-10, 210, Sr.; Zach Walter, QB/LB, 5-11, 185, So.; Matt Davied, OL/ DL, 6-2, 295, So. Conor Nicholl

7-2 in 2012 / 3-2 in district / 8-Man I Wheat State League Coach: Paul Dold (4th year, 20-8; 9th, 48-34) Assistants: Chad Lafferty, Gunner Whorton Offense: Balanced Line, I-formation Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 5 Returning starters: 3 Offense, 5 Defense Tevin Renken, QB/CB, Sr.; Trevor Smyres, OE/DE, Sr.; Chord Zeller, G/DE, Jr.; Laramie Peters, LB, Jr.; Grand Harvey, CB, Jr. Conor Nicholl

MANKATO-ROCK HILLS GRIZZLIES Rock Hills was receiving votes in the Eight-Man, Division I preseason poll and then reached the first state championship game in school history with a 72-26 first round victory against Peabody-Burns and then defeated Marmaton Valley 76-48, beat Madison in an upset, 36-20, and then lost to Ness City, 40-8.

The Madison game ended the Bulldogs – the two-time defending Eight-Man, Division I state champions – 10-game winning streak.

Then, Sam Meyers resigned to take over as principal. Curt Christians, an assistant last year and former head coach at Beloit/St. John’s-Tipton and Downs-Lakeside, will stay on as assistant coach after he assisted in 2012, as will veteran assistant Matt Hesting. Brock McMillan takes over as head coach for a team that will return just two starters on both sides of the ball.

The team’s top returning offensive weapon, junior Joel Broeckelman rushed 133 times for 1,343 yards and 32 TDs and had 2,099 all-purpose yards last year. On defense, Rock Hills graduated its top six tacklers.

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4-5 in 2012 / 3-3 in district / 8-Man I Coach: Jeff Kuckelman (4th year, 21-9) Assistant: Todd Grizzell Offense: Multiple Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 11 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 6 Defense Tanner Tranbarger, QB, 5-11, 155, Sr.; Jordan Welch, RB/LB, 6-0, 165, Sr.; Andy Wendland, TE/DB, 6-1, 155, Sr.; Alan Ibarra, WR/DB, 5-6, 120, So.; Austin McCauley, FB/LB, 6-0, 165, So.; Kolton Pavlu, DE, 5-11, 190, So. Conor Nicholl

MELVERN-MARAIS DES CYGNES VALLEY TROJANS

“A major key for us is going to be how we come together as a group and learn to trust each other and communicate during games,” McMillan said. “A big graduated class of seniors opens up competition for positions on the offensive line and defensive side of the ball, which should be good for us.”

“Our key to having a successful season will rely on our ability to perform at a consistent level of high intensity and our stressed attention to detail in all phases of preparation and performance.”

Marais des Cygnes Valley advanced to the 8-Man Division I playoffs in Butch Jones’ first year as the Trojans’ head coach.

Jones said the Trojans have a team that is capable of returning to the playoffs in 2013.

“If we can stay away from the major injuries we like our chances at the district title,” Jones said. “We want back in the playoffs but this time we would like to be the first-round host.

As always, the Lyon County league schedule will be tough.

“We must continue to show improvement on defense awareness and aggressiveness.

11-2 in 2012 / 5-1 in district / 8-Man I Offensively, we must continue to Improve our Northern Plains League knowledge and efficiency. I felt we showed Coach: Brock McMillan (1st year) great improvement in the 2012 season, if we Assistants: Matt Hesting, Curt Christians can continue this, our 2013 season will be fun.”

Offense: Multiple Set Defense: 3-2 The Trojans return six starters on each side of Returning lettermen: 8 the ball. Coach Jones’ son, Matt Jones, creates Returning starters: 2 Offense, 2 Defense Joel Broeckelman, QB/DB, Jr.; Chanse Copple, QB/DB, mismatches for opposing defenses as a 6-foot-6, Sr.; Devon Freeman, RB/DB, Sr. 225-pound tight end. Matt Jones had 32 catches Conor Nicholl for 403 yards and seven touchdowns last season. Kaden Vanderpool, Trey Irey and Christian

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10-2 in 2012 / 5-0 in district / 8-Man I Lyon County League Coach: Fred McClain (15th year, 144-34) Assistants: Tracy Griffin, Brett Dannels Offense: 4 Back Unbalanced Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 14 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 6 Defense Corey McClelland, CB, 5-9, 160, Sr.; Sage Blubaugh, QB/S, 6-1, 180, Sr.; Dallas Thompson, RB/DE, 6-1, 223, Sr.; Hayden Serrer, C/NG, 5-10, 215, Sr.; Gavin Beyer, TE/LB, 6-3, 215, Jr.; Owen Reed, RB/DE, 6-1, 219, Jr.; Dustin Stutesman, QB, 5-11, 170, Jr. Melanie McGee

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Cannon are all possibilities at quarterback.

Seniors Jones, Vanderpool, Wyatt Jordan, Irey, Caleb Dickey and Lukas Ferris headline a defensive unit that held opponents to six points or fewer in three of its final four regular season games.

6-4 in 2012 / 4-1 in district / 8-Man I Lyon County League Coach: Butch Jones (2nd year, 6-4; 27th year overall, 189-76) Assistants: Danny Rice Offense: Offset I; Defense: 3-3-2 Returning lettermen: 14 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Matt Jones, TE/LB, 6-6, 225, Sr.; Kaden Vanderpool, QB/RB/DB, 5-11, 185, Sr.; Wyatt Jordan, TE/DE, 6-3, 200, Sr.; Trey Irey, QB/RB/DB/DE, 5-11, 185, Sr.; Caleb Dickey, WR/RB/DB, 5-10, 175, Sr.; Lukas Ferris, OL/DB, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Mitch Saffle, OL/DL/LB, 6-0, 220, Jr.; Josh Sowers, RB/DB, 5-10, 165, Jr.; Cody Patterson, OL/DL/ LB, 6-0, 175, So.; Marquis Mitchell, OL/DL, 5-10, 235, So.; Christian Cannon, QB/DB, 6-0, 165, So.; Kenny Freeman, OL/DL, 5-10, 165, So. Mark Schremmer

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

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MONTEZUMA-SOUTH GRAY REBELS

MORAN-MARMATON VALLEY WILDCATS

NESS CITY EAGLES

OSBORNE BULLDOGS

Aaron Law takes over for veteran Jeff Blattner, who took the Rebels to the state championship game in 2011. Blattner had coached for 31 years and went 28-11 in four years with the Rebels.

“Game in and game out we have got to be able to battle the opposition,” Law said. “I’m looking for the most competitive eight young men on the field at all times. We may not end up being the most talented team on the field at any given time, but we will be the hardest working.”

The Rebels returns six offensive and six defensive starters after the Rebels outscored opponents 308-276 last year. South Gray lost 28-26 to Rolla, an eventual playoff team, in Week 4. Then, South Gray finished 1-3 with a 48-0 Week 6 loss to Minneola, a 28-20 Week 8 loss to Spearville and a 48-0 Week 9 defeat to Hodgeman County.

This season, Law will change the offense from an I formation to a Pro Set. ”Our success this year is entirely dependent on the amount of time we spend in the weight room this summer and how much time we spend getting down the particulars of our offensive system,” Law said.

The Marmaton Valley Wildcats entered the 2012 season with loads of experience, and it resulted in a 10-1 season that ended in the second round of the 8-Man Division I playoffs.

Many of the key players from last year’s team have graduated, but the Wildcats still have high expectations.

“We want to win our league and district and advance into the playoffs,” Marmaton Valley coach Kent Houk said.

Marmaton Valley will need to replace all-league running back and linebacker Cole Becker and all-league tight end, defensive end and kicker Lucas Hamlin.

Becker was named the 2012 8-Man Division I player of the year by Kpreps.com after rushing for 2,236 yards and 36 touchdowns, while registering 90 tackles from his linebacker spot.

The Wildcats do return three starters on each side of the ball, however. Leading the way will be senior running back and linebacker Sage Hall, senior lineman Lane Hamm, and senior tight end and defensive end Joey Jefferies.

Marmaton Valley’s high-octane offense scored no fewer than 46 points in a game last season.

The Wildcat defense kept opponents to one touchdown or less six times.

“We need to stay healthy throughout the year and our young guys need to step up and contribute on both sides of the ball,” Houk said.

When was the last time Kansas had an eight-man team as dominant as Ness City?

Statistically, not in recent memory. The Eagles outscored opponents by an average margin of 49-6, won every game by at least 32 points and came close to the eight-man state record for average margin of victory set by the 1982 Midway-Denton team at 49 points a game. The Eagles’ had eight-man’s best scoring defense since preppowerindex.com began to track the statistic in 2006.

Ness City finished No. 2 nationally in the final Freeman Ratings and had the highest team rating by a Kansas squad since the Freeman Ratings started in 2007.

However, the Eagles graduated virtually everyone, including Shrine Bowler Dalton Gantz, Hays Daily News Defensive Player of the Year Blake McVicker and Garrett Flax, arguably the state’s top special teams returner. Gantz, McVicker and Flax were all Hays Daily News Super 11 selections and Chris Bamberger was HDN Coach of the Year.

Bamberger has just one starter back in senior wideout Trevor Hawkins, who caught 27 passes and seven receiving scores - both team-highs - for 263 yards. Hawkins also recorded 30 tackles, three passes defended and one interception.

Junior Pedro Flores didn’t start, but saw plenty of time in blowouts and finished with 66 carries for 426 yards and six TDs. “Our senior leadership will be our biggest key to success,” Bamberger said. “Their ability to take this team and guide it throughout the ups and downs of the season will be big for us.

Several will have to step in and fill big time roles on this football team as well as help bring along multiple underclassmen also.”

Osborne has now posted 10-2, 10-2 and 6-3 seasons in its first three eight-man seasons after it struggled for many years in the 11-man ranks. The Bulldogs lost their season opener against WaKeeney-Trego Community then won six in a row before it finished with losses to Scandia-Pike Valley and Mankato-Rock Hills and missed the playoffs.

This year, Osborne returns plenty of talent, including senior Kenton Ubelaker, one of eightman’s top players with 2,140 all-purpose yards and 30 scores. Maverick Lerock collected 933 total yards and 14 TDs, while Brandt Wolters collected 362 receiving yards. Jake Tiernan had a big year as a freshman when he completed 75 of 111 passes for 1,190 yards with a 17/6 TD/ INT ratio.

Defense continues to be the issue for Osborne.

Two years ago, the Bulldogs outscored opponents 658-359. Last year, Osborne outscored opponents 424-350.

“We have a lot of experience back,” coach Steve Tiernan said. “We need to find a way to stay healthy. (We) play in a very tough district.”

After more than 35 years in the Mid-Continent League, Osborne, one of the smallest MCL schools, will leave for the Northern Plains League, a league with many more Class 1A schools like the Bulldogs.

4-5 in 2012 / 2-3 in district / 8-Man I Southern Plains Iroquois Coach: Aaron Law (1st year, 0-0) Assistant: Michael Scott Offense: Pro Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Zach Grick, OL/DL, 5-9, 289, Sr.; Jason Guenther, TB/ DB, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Ryan Griebel, TB/DB, 5-6, 120, Sr.; Gabriel Loya, OL/LB, 5-10, 205, Sr.; Henry Friesen, TB/ LB, 5-10, 225, Sr.; Logan Dahlke, OL/DL 6-0, 215, Sr.; Carson Skidmore, QB/DB, 6-3, 170, Jr.; Jake Peters, OL/ DL, 6-1, 210, Jr.; Nicholas Powell, OL/DL, 5-10, 275, Jr.; Richard Racy, TB/DB, 5-6, 130, So. Conor Nicholl

10-1 in 2012 / 5-0 in district / 8-Man I Three Rivers League Coach: Kent Houk (3rd year, 21-9) Assistants: N/A Offense: Multiple Defense: 3-2 Monster Returning lettermen: 10 Returning starters: 3 Offense, 3 Defense Sage Hall, RB/LB, 5-9, 180, Sr.; Lane Hamm, OL/DL, 6-0, 255, Sr.; Joey Jefferies, TE/DE, 6-0, 195, Sr. Mark Schremmer 13-0 in 2012 / 5-0 in district / 8-Man I Central Prairie League Coach: Chris Bamberger (3rd year, 26-7) Assistants: Dave Kempke, Cade Scott Offense: Option Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 3 Returning starters: 1 Offense, 1 Defense Trevor Hawkins, TE/DB, 6-0, 175, Sr.

PRETTY PRAIRIE BULLDOGS Pretty Prairie has consistently been one of the top eight-man programs. From 1991-94, the Bulldogs lost in the first round, finished as runner-up, won the championship and then lost in the first round. Pretty Prairie didn’t make the postseason again until 2001, but has made the playoffs nearly every year since. In 2001, the Bulldogs reached sub-state and then lost in the first round 2004-06, second round in 2007 and sub-state in 2009. In 2010, the Bulldogs were ranked No. 1 all season, but then lost to Osborne in the second round. In 2011, Pretty Prairie lost in the first round and then lost in the second round last year. Coach C.T. Young is well aware the Bulldogs have made the playoffs eight of the last nine years and “would like to keep that run going.”

Last year, Eight-Man, Division I, District 5 was one of the strongest districts with four teams that went 3-2 or better – but no one was undefeated – and three teams won at least seven games. Pretty Prairie was a district-best plus-79 in points, but finished as runner-up because

of a loss to Solomon. This year, the Bulldogs graduated nine seniors, including six starters on both sides of the ball.

“We will be very heavy with freshman and sophomores,” Young said. “We will be counting on them to contribute as we only have six upperclassmen returning. How quickly they develop will go a long way in how successful we are.”

6-3 in 2012 / 2-1 in district / 8-Man I Northern Plains League Coach: Steve Tiernan (3rd year, 16-5; 12th overall, 106-18) Assistants: Ken Ubelaker, Cullen Riner Offense: Option Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 9 Returning starters: 7 Offense, 6 Defense Kenton Ubelaker, RB/LB, 5-8, 170, Sr.; Maverick Lerock, RB/DE, 6-0, 190, Sr.; Brandt Wolters, TE/LB, 6-0, 190, Jr.; Jake Tiernan, QB, 6-0, 170, So.; Colin Berkley, G/ DE, 6-0, 190, Sr.; Shane Hendrickson, C, 6-2, 190, Jr.; Alan Mick, E/LB, 5-10, 150, Sr.; Parkers Wolters, S, 5-10, 150, Jr. Conor Nicholl

Conor Nicholl

QUINTER BULLDOGS

For the last decade, the gregarious, deeply religious Greg Woolf has led the Bulldog football program. For nearly that entire time, he has had assistants Brian Roesch and Jeff Ruckman. The trio was known throughout northwest Kansas for their character and chemistry, especially on the 2009 squad that went 12-1 and won the Eight-Man, Division I state championship after Woolf learned he had cancer in Week 2.

However, Woolf decided to step aside in the off8-3 in 2012 / 4-1 in district / 8-Man I season and Ruckman, a former UCLA starting Heart of the Plains League nose guard and Quinter defensive coordinator, Coach: C.T. Young (11th year, 77-31) will take over as head coach. Roesch, who has Assistants: Dennis Detter, Deoane Broce been the offensive coordinator and has more Offense: Multiple Formation/Spread Defense: 3-5 than 20 years of coaching experience, will Returning lettermen: 13 remain on staff.

Returning starters: 2 Offense, 2 Defense Connor Haury, OL/DL, 6-1, 165, Sr.; Matt Bray, OL. 5-8, Quinter went 34-9 in its first three seasons in 200, Sr.; Nick Helfrich, DL, 5-10, 165, Sr. the eight-man ranks, but dropped back to 3-6 Conor Nicholl last fall with just three seniors, none of whom started on defense. The Bulldogs opened 3-3 last year and had a chance at the postseason, but lost 50-26 to Atwood, 54-8 to Hoxie and 38-20 to WaKeeney-Trego to close out the year. Every rushing and passing yard is likely to return for

Quinter. Junior Tyler Waggoner completed 20 of 40 passes for 310 yards with a 7/4 TD/INT ratio.

Senior Colton Corwin has battled knee issues the last two falls, but collected 106 carries for 608 yards and eight rushing TDs, while junior Zach Mader collected 86 carries for 563 yards and seven TDs. Junior Jason Werth had 127 tackles last year and 59 as a freshman, while Corwin tacked on 117 and three interceptions.

For his career, Corwin has 252 tackles and 13 interceptions.

3-6 in 2012 / 1-4 in district / 8-Man I Northwest Kansas League Coach: Jeff Ruckman (1st year) Assistants: Brian Roesch Offense: Option Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 14 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 8 Defense Tyler Waggoner, QB, Jr.; Brett Crist, FB/DB, Jr.; Colton Corwin, RB/CB, Sr.; Zach Mader, RB/DB, Sr.; Chad Mohler, FB/LB, Jr.; Tanner Samuelson, G/NG, Sr.; Jason Werth, TE/DE, Jr.; Ryan Tebow, OL/DL, Sr. Conor Nicholl

Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

Page 71

SCANDIA-PIKE VALLEY PANTHERS Pike Valley was the lone eight-man team to qualify for the playoffs with a losing record last year. However, the Panthers didn’t come out of a weak district. Instead, Pike Valley defeated a depleted Clifton-Clyde squad, 34-14, in Week 3 and then pulled off a big win, 50-40, against Osborne in Week 8. Osborne had reached the sub-state championship the last two years.

Mankato-Rock Hills won the district, while Clifton-Clyde, Osborne and Pike Valley tied for second.

Clifton-Clyde and Osborne had Pike Valley beat on points, but Pike Valley had the headto-head and qualified for the postseason for the first time since 2008. Pike Valley’s last playoff win came in 2005, when it reached sub-state for the second time in four years.

This year, Don Melby, in his 34th year with the program and 32nd as head coach, has to retool after the Panthers graduated its quarterback and top five rushers, including Robert Cox, who

led the team with 299 carries for 1,238 yards and nine TDs, and 111 tackles.

“We need to improve every week and stay healthy,” Cox said. “If our young kids can improve, we hope to be competitive in the district again this year. We need some young kids to grow up fast and compete. We will have short numbers, I think, so we will need to stay healthy. We again will have to survive a very tough schedule early on and prepare for a competitive district also.”

4-6 in 2012 / 4-2 in district / 8-Man I Northern Plains League Coach: Don Melby (32nd year, 181-123) Assistants: Garry Loring, Mike Baumann Offense: Multiple I Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 7 Returning starters: 2 Offense, 2 Defense Tynam Barclay, G, 6-0, 265, Sr.; Cody Bivens, G, 5-9, 225, Sr.; Nathan Larson, DE, 5-9, 160, Jr.; Ty Sothers, DB, 5-5, 165, Jr. Conor Nicholl

SOLOMON GORILLAS Solomon enjoyed a six-win improvement from 2011, advanced to the sub-state semifinal where it lost 48-0 to eventual state champion Ness City, and finished No. 5 in KPreps.com’s EightMan, Division I final poll.

It marked the best season since 1940, for a squad that switched to the eight-man ranks four years ago. Solomon’s only playoff appearance until 2001 came in 1984. The Gorillas had won playoff games in 2004, ’07 and ’08 but lost in the second round each time.

Last year, the Gorillas played the No. 8-hardest district schedule in the classification, according to preppowerindex.com, and outscored opponents 548-252. Solomon narrowly made the playoffs. The Gorillas lost to Central Plains 56-52 in Week 8 and then defeated Pretty Prairie 20-18 in Week 9 to secure a berth. Then, Solomon defeated Kiowa County, 54-42, and Jetmore-Hodgeman County, 22-18, before the Ness City loss. Solomon finished 6-0 at home.

Senior quarterback Colton Shirack returns after he completed 40 of 109 passes for 859

yards with a 13/8 TD/INT ratio. He also led the team with 197 carries for 1,208 yards and 16 scores. Mason Demars tacked on 74 carries for 463 yards and 10 TDs. Mark Aylward is back after he paced Solomon with 97 tackles.

Coach Tim Cross, in his 17th season with the program and fifth as a head coach, “wants to have another successful season” with a winning record and playoff appearance.

“Need to be injury free and be in great shape conditioning-wise,” Cross said.

10-2 in 2012 / 5-0 in district / 8-Man I Wheat State League Coach: Tim Cross (5th year, 18-21) Assistants: Alan Randles, Greg Cook Offense: I/T Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 6 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 4 Defense Colton Shirack, QB/DB, 6-2, 200, Sr.; Mason DeMars, RB, 6-1, 175, Sr.; Mark Aylward, RB/DB, 6-1, 215, Sr.; Alex Garrett, OL/DL, 6-3, 270, Sr.; Blake Homman, OL/ DL, 6-2, 215, Jr.; Michael Brown, OL/DL, 5-10, 185, Sr. Conor Nicholl

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CARDINALS

SOUTH HAVEN CARDINALS

SPEARVILLE ROYAL LANCERS

From 1984-2003, South Haven’s only state appearance came in 1995. Now, South Haven has made the playoffs every year since 2004, the second-longest streak in eight-man football behind Victoria. The Cardinals were runner-up to Wallace County in 2007. In the last six years, coach David Hughes, in his 34th year with the program, has led South Haven to records of 10-1, 11-1, 8-2, 6-4, 7-3 and 12-1. Last year’s team lost to Madison in the second round of the playoffs. South Haven enters the season on a 19-game regular season winning streak that stretches back to a 37-20 loss to Caldwell in Week 8 of the 2010 season.

Senior center/linebacker Richie Goble is back after he collected first team all-league and honorable mention all-state at center. Senior Anthony Hawkins was second team all-league defensive end.

“We have some very competitive players who if they commit themselves to our summer program, and we stay healthy and disciplined, we should have a competitive squad,” Hughes said. “We graduated a large senior class, and most of our starters, but the younger kids got to play a lot, so they do have game experience. A big part of our success is how well the offensive line develops. We have some big kids to play on the line, and smaller, quick kids, so whoever works the hardest will play.”

Senior Riley Blaylock, a returning starter at defensive back, will also start at quarterback this year. Hughes said senior T.J. Yunker “has good vision and football speed.”

“He has gotten bigger and stronger in the weight room. He plays with a lot of emotion, which is a key to our success in that he must keep it in control,” Hughes said.

Entering last season, Spearville had collected one victory in its last 22 games. Then, the Lancers beat Bucklin, 42-6, in Week 1 and enjoyed a big turnaround mainly because of two freshmen running backs in Nathan Stein and Brandon Davis. In 2011, opponents outscored Spearville 416-140. Last year, Spearville finished with a five-win improvement and outscored opponents 358-330.

This fall, fifth-year coach Matt Fowler has set three goals: play hard-nosed, physical football, make our community proud, and improve every day, in and out of season.

Fowler listed four keys to success: a great summer in the weight room, need some guys to step up and fill the holes on the offensive line, our young kids must continue to improve and step in and win the turnover battle.

Stein had 149 carries for 1,057 yards and 12 scores, while Davis collected 71 carries for 665 yards and 13 scores. Stein also led the team with 74 tackles and four interceptions. Junior Matt Kerschen returns after he completed 21 of 54 passes for 341 yards with three touchdowns against five interceptions.

Spearville hasn’t made the playoffs since 2008 and its last postseason victories came when the Lancers reached sub-state in 1997.

10-1 in 2012 / 6-0 in district / 8-Man I South Central Border League Coach: David Hughes (170-93) Assistants: Jimmy Yunker Offense: Power I Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 6 Returning starters: 2 Offense, 2 Defense Richie Goble, C/LB, 6-2, 210, Sr.; J.T. Yunker, RB/DB, 6-1, 185, Sr.; Riley Blaylock, DB, 5-11, 165, Sr.; Anthony Hawkins, DE, 6-2, 195, Sr. Conor Nicholl

5-4 in 2012 / 3-2 in district / 8-Man I Southern Plains Iroquois Coach: Matt Fowler (5th year, 9-27) Assistants: Chris Sohm, Ron Stein, Steve Strain Offense: Single Wing Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 10 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 6 Defense Matthew Kerschen, RB/DB, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Eric Slattery, LB, 5-8, 150, Sr.; Hunter Stephenson, TE, 6-3, 150, Jr.; Reegan Kliessen, OL/DL, 5-11, 200, Jr.; Nathan Stein, RB/DB, 6-1, 175, So.; Brandon Davis, RB/DB, 5-9, 135, So. Conor Nicholl

UNIONTOWN EAGLES The Uniontown Eagles finished their first season at the 8-Man level with mixed results.

After earning a 4-5 record and failing to make the playoffs in 2012, the Eagles look to improve in their second year of the 8-Man game. Uniontown lost its first three district games, but ended the season on a high note with victories over Pleasanton (56-6) and Yates Center (36-22).

“Our goal for the 2013 season is to improve each day and each week,” Uniontown coach Chad Stroud said.

“We will be very young, so learning from our mistakes will be crucial to our success. We had a high level of commitment from our freshmen last summer, so hopefully those young men will continue to buy in. We hope to be in contention for a playoff spot come week 9.”

Uniontown returns two starters on offense with sophomore John Reed at running back, and junior John Kuns at tight end.

Defensive back Chase Gleason is the team’s only senior returning starter. He will be joined by junior Cole Schafer in the secondary. Sopho-

ST. PAUL INDIANS

Coach Wyatt Williams has led the Eagles to 6-4, 3-6, 7-3 and 7-3 marks from 2009-12. Last year, Williams labeled the season “very good,” but it ended “in disappointing fashion.” Udall lost its starting quarterback and top two running backs during the last two regular season games.

The Eagles greatly struggled after the injuries and finished the year with a 24-20 victory against Central Burden, a 36-30 loss to Cedar Vale/Dexter and a 60-14 first round defeat to Marmaton Valley.

Udall ended up playing plenty of young players, including five freshmen. This year, the Eagles will have nearly 35 players and should have quality depth and some good position battles. Junior quarterback Hunter Kistler is expected to take over for all-state quarterback Michael Propst. Talented sophomores Alex Perez and Nolan Williams are expected to be offensive playmakers. Perez led the team with 21 catches for 522 yards and was second with seven receiving TDs. Coach Williams labeled the defense “fast and aggressive” and returns almost everybody. Last year, the defense had 19 sacks and 30 forced turnovers.

6-2 in 2012 / 3-2 in district / 8-Man I Before 2008, Udall hadn’t made the postseaThree Rivers League son since first-round exits in 1985 and ’87. An Coach: Doug Tuck (24th year, 182-62) 18-15 victory against Kiowa in the first round Assistants: Adam Burke, Keith Wiatrak of the Class 1A playoffs is the school’s lone Offense: N/A Defense: N/A postseason victory.

Returning lettermen: 4 “We have a lot of talented athletes that work Returning starters: 2 Offense, 2 Defense Alex McCracken, RB; Billy Brown, RB/DB; Preston very hard,” Williams, in his 14th year with the Jacquinot, LB program, said. “We feel that we will be a very Melanie McGee good football team this season, and our goals are to finally win a playoff game.”

Williams said the team’s keys are continuing to work hard and “reach our potential.”

7-3 in 2012 / 4-2 in district / 8-Man I South Central Border League Coach: Wyatt Williams (7th overall, 36-31) Assistants: Barney Rockey, Ryan Ware Offense: I-Formation Defense: 3-4-1 Returning lettermen: 14 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 6 Defense Tylor Kistler, FB/DT, 5-6, 160, Sr.; Alex Perez, WR, 5-11, 170, So.; Dalton Loos, LG, 5-7, 160, So.; Zach Kratochvil, C, 6-0, 170, Sr.; Hunter Kistler, LB, 5-11, 175, Jr.; Nolan Williams, LB, 6-0, 175, So.; Tanner Bonnell, DT, 5-10, 170, Jr.; Tanner Roberts, DE, 5-7, 165, Jr.; Cody Waggoner, DE, 5-7, 150, Jr. Conor Nicholl

WAKEENEY-TREGO COMMUNITY GOLDEN EAGLES

more Gavin Miller is back at linebacker.

The defense will look to continue the improvement it made last season. After allowing 50 points or more for a four-game stretch, the Eagles finished their last three outings allowing an average of 16.6 points.

Longtime WaKeeney-Trego coach Myron Flax stepped aside to become school principal this year and Pat Haxton, who won a state title with Gypsum-Southeast of Saline and was the coach at Valley Center last year, takes over the Golden Eagles. WaKeeney-Trego has improved its record in each of the last three seasons. In 2010, 4-5 in 2012/ 2-3 in district/ 8-Man I the Golden Eagles went 0-9 in the last year of Three Rivers League Class 2-1A. In 2011, WaKeeney-Trego went 2-7 Coach: Chad Stroud (5th year, 15-23) in the eight-man ranks. Last year, WaKeeAssistants: Dustin Miller, Chad Hays, Jeremy Neville ney-Trego went 5-4 and nearly qualified for the Offense: Multiple Defense: 3-Man Front playoffs. It marked the program’s first winning Returning lettermen: 10 season since a 5-4 mark in 2007.

Returning starters: 2 Offense, 3 Defense John Reed, RB, 5-9, 160, So.; John Kuns, TE, 5-10, 155, The Golden Eagles went 2-3 in district play Jr.; Gavin Miller, LB, 5-8, 155, So.; Chase Gleason, DB, and finished fourth, but everything changed 5-10, 145, Sr.; Cole Schafer, DB, 5-6, 140, Jr. with a 34-28 triple overtime home loss to Mark Schremmer Hoxie in Week 5. Then, WaKeeney lost 26-8 to Atwood the following week.

The Golden Eagles return senior running back Devon Ghumm (89 carries for 601 yards, 12 rushing TDs) and Clayton Riedel (11 catches, 255 yards, eight TDs). Riedel collected 76 tackles, while Ghumm had 74 tackles (10 for

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UDALL EAGLES

With just one senior and three juniors on the team, St. Paul will be young this year.

The Indians are coming off a 6-2 season but they return just four lettermen from the 2012 team.

Junior running back Alex McCracken is the lone returning player who earned a spot on the Kpreps.com All-District team. Running back/ defensive back Billy Brown and linebacker Preston Jacquinot are also back in the starting lineup for St. Paul.

“We have experience in our offensive and defensive backfields,” veteran coach Doug Tuck said. “Developing players up front will be important. Our numbers will be low and we will have to play some young players. We will look to teach fundamentals, play hard and stay healthy.”

St. Paul opens the season with a trip to West Elk on Sept. 6, then the home opener against Chetopa before a week off. The Indians will also travel to Crest, Pleasanton and Marmaton Valley and they host Uniontown, Yates Center and Marais des Cygnes Valley.

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loss) and senior Cade Papes collected a teamhigh 13 TFLs. “It is going to be a process for them to learn what I expect from them and to learn what we are trying to accomplish offensively,” Haxton said. “We’ve had a very good summer and expectations are very high. They must work everyday to try and get better. Focus and intensity are going to have to increase every practice and every game. We want to go out and compete and play hard every game.”

5-4 in 2012 / 2-3 in district / 8-Man I Mid-Continent League Coach: Pat Haxton (1st year, 13th overall, 73-67) Assistants: Ron Freeman, Jason Hickson Offense: Spread Zone Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 13 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 5 Defense Devin Ghumm, RB/LB, 6-2, 200, Sr.; Clayton Riedel, WR/ DB, 6-4, 210, Sr.; Cade Papes, OL/DE, 5-7, 175, Sr.; Lincoln Brungardt, OL/DL, 6-1, 245, Sr.; Corbin Schoenthaler, RB, 5-8, 150, So.; Brandon Schoenthaler, LB, 6-0, 170, Sr. Conor Nicholl

Scott C ity • W aK eeney H illC ity • O ak ley

Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

Page 73

Class 8-Man II ■ By Conor Nicholl For Kansas Pregame

Current Hanover football coach Matt Heuer is a Hanover alum and remembers when Baileyville B&B was a strong football program in the 1990s under former coach Jerry Turner. The Falcons played in 12 postseason games from 1992-99 and lost to Hanston in the ‘99 EightMan, Division II state championship.

“Always had a good football team,” Heuer said of B&B. Turner, now the B&B principal, gave the reins to Steve Tiernan, who went to Osborne two seasons ago.

Now, Justin Coup is in his third season as the head coach of the Falcons. Tiernan and Coup have raised B&B to new heights, created what Heuer calls the “poster child for consistency” in the up-and-down nature of eight-man football and built one of the greatest dynasties in the history of the Kansas eightman ranks.

However, after this fall, the Falcons will cease to exist as a football team. B&B will consolidate next season with Seneca-Nemeha Valley – a possibility of consolidation is one of the reasons why Tiernan left a few years ago – and a great run will end. In addition to the football success, the Falcons have won back-to-back Class 1A, Division II volleyball championships and have had strong basketball and track teams.

The Falcons, the favorite to repeat as Eight-Man, Division II champions, could reach its sixth straight state championship.

“Expectations are still the same around here,” Coup said. “Winning a state championship is not something we take lightly.”

The Falcons, who also finished as state runner-up in 2004, won the state title in 2008, finished as runner-up in 2009, won the state title in

PLAYERS TO WATCH

CONNOR EILERT

2010, finished as runner-up in 2011 and won the title last year.

“It’s going to be sad to see them go,” Heuer said. “One of those model programs.”

Midway-Denton, considered the gold standard of eight-man football, won four titles from 1981-86, but missed the playoffs the other two years. Almena-Northern Valley reached five state games (two titles) from 1982-90. Scandia collected three state crowns from 1970-72 and Sylvan Unified won three titles in four years from 199598 and reached the second round of the postseason in 1996.

“Their determination and drive to continue the streak is just as important as ever,” Coup said.

The Falcons, whose only two losses in the last five years have come in the state game, return 17 lettermen, including eight seniors.

Four starters are back on both sides of the ball, paced by quarterback Dustin Rottinghaus, one of the state’s top players.

Chase coach John Wellman has played on the west and east side of the state in the last two years and said “without a doubt” B&B and Hanover are the two best teams in the east. Last year, the Falcons defeated Hanover in the regular season and sub-state championship game.

“In my opinion, last season, B&B and Hanover were the two best teams,” Wellman said. “I think B&B might have been the best team in Division I, if they had played Division I this past year. This year is B&B’s last year, obviously. They are going to be very motivated.

Hanover has a lot coming back. I think Hanover is going to be good for the next five or six years, be loaded up. Those two programs are, in my opinion, a step above everyone else right now. You still have a lot of other teams coming out of the west.”

In the west, ThunKPREPS.COM PRESEASON RANKINGS der Ridge, Wallace County, Victoria and 1. Baileyville B&B Fowler are expected 2. Thunder Ridge to be the top four 3. Hanover teams. Otis-Bison, 4. Wallace County with 40 wins in the 5. Victoria last four years, is likely to take a step Others: Northern Valley, Axtell, Beloit-St. John’s Tipton, Caldwell, Chetopa, Fowler, Rolla, South Barber, Waverly back after it graduated all-state running back Dylan Wissman Wallace County and Hanover, more and all-state lineman Sam Higgathan five hours apart, will meet at son. Thunder Ridge defeated B&B Natoma in Week 5 on a Saturday. for the 2011 title and lost to the “Going to have deal with Kevin Falcons last year. The Longhorns Ayers,” Heuer said of Wallace graduated all-state running back County’s coach that is 140-26 in Trevor Lowe and have dealt with his career and is widely considered some offseason injuries, but bring one of Kansas’ top coaches. back quarterback/linebacker Garrett Victoria has collected 11 straight Krueger, the lone returning starter playoff berths, the longest current from the state championship winstreak in eight-man football, and ning team of 2011, and a strong line returns nearly all of its skill players, backed by senior Benton Hrabe. including electrifying playmakers “We have to have great leaderin quarterback Sam Ottley and ship from our seniors,” coach Jerry receiver Noah Dreiling, Victoria has Voorhees said. played the first and second hardest Wallace County lost four-year strength of schedules in the classifistarting quarterback Gavin Mote, cation the last two seasons and will running back Eli Kuhlman and lead- be tested early with Macksville, St. ing tackler Lane Perry, but returns John, Ness City, and Central Plains basically the rest of the team intact in the first four games. from a squad that rolled into to the Fowler, which defeated Victoria in sub-state title game. Then, it played the first round of the playoffs and a disappointing, subpar contest then lost to Wallace County in the and got pounded by Thunder Ridge second round, returns quarterback 44-22.

Taylin Bird (1,127 passing yards) The Wildcats, which outscored and Ty Clark (126 tackles), but lost opponents 513-100 en route to Tem Shetley (1,034 rushing yards, a 10-1 season, brings back their three field goals) when his family second, third, fourth, fifth and sevmoved back to Branson, Mo. in enth leading tacklers. The defense early summer. includes senior Dayton Walker (team-high tackles for loss), senior Clay Schemm (seven sacks, seven quarterback hurries) and senior Callahan Grund (5.5 sacks). All five returning defensive starters were all-league last season, including three first teamers.

In what is becoming more prevalent, teams are meeting for neutral site games to fill its schedule.

In addition to the players featured on the cover and inside back cover, these players are just a few of the best to keep an eye on in 8-Man DII this fall.

TY CLARK

6-0, 180, SR, LB, BELOIT ST. JOHN’S-TIPTON

6-4, 180, SR, WR/LB, FOWLER

File photo

Photo courtesy Bob Parker

Lucas Adams............ 5-11, 170, Sr, RB, Frankfort

Cameron Haug...............6-4, 190, Sr, TE/DE, Baileyville B&B

Isaac Alinor.............. 6-1, 195, RB/LB, Dighton

Benton Hrabe.................5-10, 225, Sr, OL/DE, Thunder Ridge

Jordan Baird............ 5-10, 175, Sr, RB/LB, Northern Valley

Brandon Jueneman.......6-0, 190, Sr, LB, Hanover

Taylin Bird................ 5-11, 140, Sr, QB/CB, Fowler

Garrett Krueger.............6-1, 150, Sr, QB/LB, Thunder Ridge

Derick Cassell.......... 6-1, 195, Jr, RB/LB, Chetopa

Ryan Perkins...................5-10, 150, Sr, DB, Southern Cloud

Hunter Chandler..... 6-1, 160, Sr, QB/S, Northern Valley

Austen Sanders..............5-9, 150, Sr, Wr, Chetopa

Eli Corino.................. 6-5, 255, Sr, OL/DL, South Barber

Clay Schemm..................6-2, 180, Sr, G/DL, Wallace County

Lester Darrah.......... 6-1, 225, Sr, DE, Axtell

Kyler Telford...................5-11, 160, Sr, RB/LB, Rolla

Noah Dreiling.......... 6-1, 160, Jr, TE, Victoria

Hayden Walker...............6-2, 165, Sr, QB/WR/DE, Weskan

Luke Eilert............... 6-1, 166, Sr, TE/DE, St. John’s-Tipton

Peyton Yandel................5-8, 150, Jr, QB/DB, South Barber

Ethan Fritschi.......... 6-5, 230, Jr, C/DE, Hanover IAN VINCENT

overview

SAM OTTLEY

6-0, 230, SR, OL/DL, NORTHERN VALLEY

6-1, 180, SR, QB/DB, VICTORIA

File photo

Photo courtesy Michelle Ross

Kyle Gfeller.............. 5-10, 150, Sr, RB/DB/KR/K, Wallace Co.

Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

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The Baileyville B&B Falcons ended the 2012 season by hoisting another 8-Man Division II state championship trophy at Fischer Field in Newton.

Baileyville B&B defeated Thunder Ridge 28-6 to cap a 13-0 season and its third state championship over the past five years. Baileyville’s final game of the year has been in the state championship in each of those five seasons, earning a 62-2 record during that stretch.

It’s been a remarkable run to say the least.

However, the Falcons enter the 2013 season knowing the run will soon end as far as Baileyville B&B High School is concerned.

Baileyville B&B will close at the end of the 2013-14 school year as it will merge with Nemaha Valley High School.

The Falcons hope to end on a high note.

“We just want to stay where we’ve been for the last five years and try to finish on top for our last year,” Baileyville B&B senior quarterback Dustin Rottinghaus said.

But that doesn’t mean you’ll hear Baileyville’s players or coaches give any emotional speeches about the significance of this season.

“We haven’t really talked about it,” Baileyville B&B coach Justin Coup said. “This group is just focused on doing things right.”

Rottinghaus said he believes the time for reminiscing will come after the season. Until then, the Falcons will be focused on defending their state championship.

“I think it will be just like a regular season,” he said. “But once we get to the end, you’ll realize that you’re done and Baileyville’s school isn’t going to be there.”

With Rottinghaus leading the way, the Falcons are one of the favorites to win 8-Man Division II in 2013.

The all-state quarterback passed for about 1,300 yards, while rushing for about 600 last season.

“He doesn’t just throw a good ball,” Coup said. “He may be even more of a threat with his legs.”

Rottinghaus said he is comfortable doing either.

“I can run and pass, but we like to run the ball a lot with the quarterback out of the backfield and do some counter traps,” he said. “If they load the box, I can throw it over the top.”

Rottinghaus passed for 110 yards and a touchdown and rushed for 90 yards and a touchdown as he helped the Falcons win the state championship and avenge its 2011 loss to Thunder Ridge.

It was an improved and more polished version of the quarterback who faced Thunder Ridge as a sophomore.

Rottinghaus entered the 2011 season as a backup, but took over the starting role when senior Eric Huerter suffered a broken collarbone in the first round of the playoffs.

The task was a lot to ask of a sophomore, but Rottinghaus answered the call.

He completed 14 of 26 passes for 199 yards and five touchdowns and ran for 84 yards and a touchdown in the three playoff games leading up to the state championship.

Rottinghaus had his struggles against Thunder Ridge, completing only 6 of 18 passes with two interceptions in the 46-14 loss.

However, Coup said it was a great learning experience for the thensophomore quarterback.

“His sophomore year, he was really kind of thrown into the fire,” Coup said. “I remember being on the sidelines during that Thunder Ridge game and I pulled him aside. I told him to trust me. I said, ‘today is not a great day for us, but it’s a great learning experience.’ Last year, I think he fed off of that.

He’s got that swagger you need in a quarterback.”

That swagger helped Rottinghaus direct the Falcons in a 54-46 double overtime comeback win over Hanover this past season.

“He’s probably one of the smartest guys I’ve ever coached,” Coup said. “I’d say he’s got to be in the top two. He’s not only athletic, but he’s got the brains to go with it. He studies film. He has the mind to be a leader.

“I think his sophomore year really catapulted him into his junior season. I

ROTTINGHAUS / Continued in next column

Pittsburg State University

Pittsburg State, the host of this year’s Kansas Pregame cover shoot, is a comprehensive graduate-level state university with an enrollment of more than 7,200 students. They offer more than 100 academic programs in four colleges. Pittsburg State offers a variety of entertainment options for everyone, rotating exhibits in the university’s art galleries, concerts and recitals, PSU Theatre productions, Veterans Memorial, and you can’t forget sports as Pitt State Football is the all-time winningest NCAA Division II team. www.pittstate.edu

think he’s learned that you got to take the good with the bad. He’s a go-getter. He’ll find a way to get it done.”

After playing mostly offense as a junior, Rottinghaus will also be counted on to be a big contributor on defense for his senior season.

Coup said that Rottinghaus is more than capable of making an impact at linebacker.

“He was probably the second best linebacker we had last year, but we didn’t want to get him hurt,” Coup said.

“He will be a starter at linebacker this year.”

Rottinghaus will be a part of nine seniors and seven juniors who will try to give its high school one last state championship.

“As long as were competing in the playoffs and making a run for a state title, there won’t be much time to think about it being the last season,” Coup said. “Our last game, whether it’s holding a state championship or after a loss, that’s when it’s going to hit.”

The tradition-rich school includes several families who have been a part of B&B for generations.

“Our motto this year will be ‘Family Over Everything,’ Coup said. “It sums up everything we’re going through this year. We want to recognize our past, because it is part of our family. It’s been part of the tradition growing up.

“The community has followed this school in all sports, boys and girls. This will be a successful year regardless of what happens on the field.”

Since 1981 the B&B Falcons are one of the best football programs in Kansas making 12 trips to the state championship game with four titles.

With this the final season for the Falcon football program, as 2014 will see the school complete their consolidation with Nemaha Central, the following sponsors and community members want everyone to know Falcon football will be gone... but never forgotten!

This special look at Baileyville B&B football brought to you by these sponsors.

Kansas Pregame would like to congratulate the community on their tradition of athletic excellence and wish them the best in 2013.

Baileyville B&B Falcon Football Tradition Never Graduates!

Title games: 1981, 1982, 1984, 1994, 2003, 2004, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012 State Championships: 1982, 2008, 2010, 2012 Consecutive Trips to the 8-Man Title Game: 5 (2008-2012)

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ASHLAND BLUE JAYS

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BAILEYVILLE B&B FALCONS

Fourteen Eight-Man, Division II teams won seven or more games last year. However, Almena-Northern Valley was the only one of that group to miss that postseason when it narrowly fell short with a 7-2 mark. After a 4-0 start, the Huskies fell 32-28 to Beloit-St. John’s-Tipton in Week 5 and then lost to Thunder Ridge, 60-14, in Week 8 to keep out of the postseason. The Huskies, now 13-5 in the last two seasons, have improved their win total in each of the last four years – and could do so again this fall.

Northern Valley hasn’t made the playoffs since 2005, but has a long tradition of success under coach Chuck Fessenden. The Huskies won three state titles and finished runner-up four times from 1982-90. Now, many of the current players had family members on those squads.

Senior quarterback Hunter Chandler, senior running back Jordan Baird and senior lineman Ian Vincent are entering their third year as starters. Last year, Chandler completed 22 of 59 passes for 236 yards and rushed 160 times for 1,111 yards. Baird has 2,153 rushing yards and 36 TDs combined the last two years. Baird led the team with 1,455 all-purpose (993 rush) in 2012. Junior Phillip Bryant (108), Chandler (97) and Vincent (96) were the top three tacklers last fall.

“We should have a pretty good season,” Fessenden said. “We return a lot of players with experience, including our interior lines and backfield. We would like to make the playoffs.

We will need to keep our backfield healthy.

We need to play some very strong defense and not make mistakes on offense. We also need to throw the ball better than the last couple of seasons.”

For virtually every eight-man program, the window to be successful at an elite level is very short. Classes rise and fall in small-town populations. Often, a team will have a couple really strong years and then fall back when a big senior class has graduated. That’s what happened to Ashland, which went 10-1 and 9-1 the last two years. Last fall, Ashland returned no starters and just one lettermen. The Bluejays suffered their first regular season loss since Week 9 of the 2008 season.

Ashland didn’t score a point until Week 4 and the lone victory was a 22-14 win versus Bucklin in Week 5. In Week 6, Ashland did play Rolla – an eventual playoff team – to 28-6. Ashland never scored more than 22 points in any contest.

This year, Ashland brings back five starters, including junior Corey McCann, the lone returning letterwinner from 2011. Stebens said the keys will be taking care of the football and staying healthy. Ashland had a 0/7 TD/INT, lost seven fumbles and finished minus-3 in turnover margin.

“To try and improve each and every day,” Stebens said of the team goals. “We must grow up in a hurry.”

Eric Detweiler takes over for Scott Brumbaugh, who resigned after he recorded a 70-39 record in 11 years. Axtell has consistently put together quality teams, but again plays in the same district as state powers Baileyville B&B and Hanover. Last year, the five teams in Eight-Man, Division II, District 1 went 25-6 in non-district play. Axtell played the No. 19-hardest schedule in the 50-team classification, according to preppowerindex.com.

Detweiler said a big key in early season will be finding a replacement for quarterback Aaron Schmelzle, who led the team with 917 all-purpose yards (770 rushing).

Detweiler said the team has good experience at running back and wide receiver and plenty of size at end with senior end Payton Heinen.

Axtell needs to find depth at defensive line, but has good experience. Detweiler said linebacker should be a strength of the defense. The top six tacklers return, including defensive back Derek Porting (team-high 65 tackles). Senior lineman Lester Darrah had four sacks, forced three fumbles, blocked two punts and recovered a fumble last year.

“We have a hard-working group,” Detweiler said. “It is going to take hard work to learn a new system with the new coaches coming in, but this group of kids will do that.”

This fall marks the last season of Baileyville B&B football, which has unified districts with Seneca-Nemeha Valley. It also ends one of the great dynasties in Kansas eight-man football.

The Falcons went undefeated and won the Eight-Man, Division II title last year under Justin Coup. In the last five years, B&B is 62-2 with three titles and two runner-up finishes.

“Expectations are still the same around here,” Coup said. “Winning a championship is not something we take lightly. Last year is over and moving on is what has made us successful in the past.”

The Falcons lost Shrine Bowl center Curtis Stallbaumer, but bring back quarterback Dustin Rottinghaus, one of the state’s top players. Rottinghaus completed 89 of 159 passes for 1,323 yards with a 16/6 TD/INT ratio. He rushed 109 times for 599 yards and 18 scores. Cameron Haug returns after he led the team with 38 catches for 559 yards and seven TDs for a team that has eight seniors.

The Falcons will again play state power Madison in Week 1, against Pretty Prairie (a neutral site game to be played on a Thursday night at Centre-Lost Springs) in Week 3 and switched out Independence Home School in Week 4 for another neutral site game in Hope against Caldwell, a playoff squad in 2012.

“The key to another run at state is finding players to fill roles and do their assigned jobs within our defense,” Coup said.

1-8 in 2012 / 1-5 in district / 8-Man II Southern Plains Iroguois Coach: Jesse Stebens (4th year, 21-10) Assistants: Jim Brown, Travis Callaway Offense: Multiple Defense: 4-2 Returning lettermen: 10 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 5 Defense Corey McCann, QB, 6-0, 165, Jr.; Kole Konrade, RB, 6-0, 175, So.; Alex Ornelas, OL/DL, 5-10, 200, Sr.; C.J. Bonilla, OL/DL, 5-9, 210, So.; Nathan Reimer, WR/DB, 5-9, 145, So. Conor Nicholl

7-2 in 2012 / 4-2 in district / 8-Man II Western Kansas Liberty League Coach: Chuck Fessenden (37th year, 260-118) Assistants: Marvin Gebhard, Brad Cox Offense: Midway Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 10 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Hunter Chandler, QB/S, 6-1, 160, Sr.; Jordan Baird, RB/ LB, 5-10, 175, Sr.; Ian Vincent, G/LB, 6-0, 230, Sr.; Phillip Bryant, RB/NG, 5-6, 160, Jr.; Ame Baird, G/DE, 5-9, 200, Jr.; Carson Montgomery, C, 5-8, 210, Jr.; Matt Stutsman, DB, 5-9, 135, Jr. Conor Nicholl

BELOIT-ST. JOHNS/TIPTON BLUEJAYS Beloit-St. John’s/Tipton Catholic finished 0-9 in 2010 with a 12-player roster that had no seniors and no juniors and then moved to 2-7 in 2011 with a 20-player roster that had one senior and six juniors. Last year, the Bluejays enjoyed a six-win improvement to 8-2 behind a 19-player roster that had four seniors – including all-state tailback Eriq Perez – and six juniors.

The Bluejays qualified for the playoffs for the first time since 2009 and outscored opponents 360-212.

The Bluejays opened 3-0 and then lost 46-12 to Thunder Ridge, the eventual state runner-up, in district play. In Week 5, St. John’s delivered a 32-28 victory against Northern Valley that was the key game to earn a playoff bid.

Northern Valley, which finished 7-2, outgained the Bluejays 271-231 and had 69 plays to St. John’s 49. However, St. John picked off three passes, blocked a punt and had five fewer penalties for 23 fewer yards. The Bluejays finished the regular season with four straight victories and then lost, 56-6, to Wallace County in the

5-4 in 2012 / 2-2 in district / 8-Man II Twin Valley League Coach: Eric Detweiler (1st year) Assistants: N/A Offense: N/A Defense: N/A Returning lettermen: 10 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 7 Defense Tyler Jones, RB, 5-10, 165, Jr.; Dylan Heiman, E/B, 5-9, 160, Sr.; Shane Talbot, B, 5-8, 155, Jr.; Lester Darrah, L, 6-1, 225, Sr.; Derek Porting, B, 5-10, 190, Sr.; Andrew Feldkamp, L, 6-0, 235, Jr.; Payton Heinen, E, 6-6, 225, Sr.; Zach Heinen, E, 6-0, 185, Sr.; Christian Buessing, L/E, 5-10, 155, Sr.; Colton Buessing, B, 5-8, 140, So. Conor Nicholl

13-0 in 2012 / 5-0 in district / 8-Man II Twin Valley League Coach: Justin Coup (3rd year, 25-1; 11th year, 79-29) Assistants: Bryan Schmitz, Jason Hajek, Ben Scism Offense: Spread Defense: 3-3 Returning lettermen: 17 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 4 Defense Dustin Rottinghaus, QB/LB, 6-1, 175, Sr.; Brendon Bergman, RB, 5-8, 165, Sr.; Cameron Haug, E/DE, 6-4, 190, Sr.; Cole Deters, OL/LB, 6-1, 190, Sr.; Gage Leishing, NG, 5-11, 185, Sr.; Derek Mueting, LB, 6-0, 190, Jr. Conor Nicholl

BIRD CITY-CHEYLIN COUGARS

first round of the playoffs.

“As long as we can stay healthy and win some close games, we could have another good year,” coach Keith Kresin said.

Senior Connor Eilert returns after he led the team with 125 carries for 842 yards and 21 scores and 122 tackles, but Kresin wants to find a replacement for Perez (700 rush, team-high 1,510 all-purpose yards, team-high 19 TDs) and an anchor at center and nose. Junior Trey Dubbert returns at QB (810 pass, 14/3 TD/INT).

Coach Max Keltz has stepped aside from Bird City after he served the last quarter-century on the Cougar football staff, including the past 14 as head coach. When Keltz came to the program, Bird City-Cheylin had just one playoff appearance, in 1969. Keltz helped the Cougars enjoy eight postseason appearances, including a sub-state showing in 1990 and second-round exits in 2001 and 2010. The 2010 team went 10-1 and set the school mark for single season victories. Cheylin also went 8-2 with a firstround loss to Victoria in 2011 and 5-4 last year.

8-2 in 2012 / 5-1 in district / 8-Man II This season, Anthony Blair, who was a Northern Plains League football assistant, boys’ basketball coach and Coach: Keith Kresin (4th year, 10-18; 81-49 overall) assistant track coach the last couple years, Assistants: Grant Stephenson takes over the team. He had served as a football Offense: I-formation Defense: 3-2 assistant the last three falls. Cheylin will keep Returning lettermen: 13 Keltz’s double tight offense and 5-1 defense.

Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Connor Eilert, FB/LB, Sr.; Caleb Brummer, TE/LB, Sr.; Cheylin had several injuries last year, but senior Trey Dubbert, QB/CB, Jr.; Garrett Mishler, LB, Jr.; Riley Eddie Frisbie is back after he led the team with Gates, OG, Jr.; Luke Eilert, TE/DE, Sr.; Quintin Selby, 89 carries for 418 yards and four scores. Senior OG, Sr.; Andrew Eilert, DE, Jr. Conor Nicholl Walker Janicke used his 6-foot-3 frame to haul in 20 catches for 316 yards and five TDs,

all team-highs. Senior Ty Carmichael led the Cougars with 107 stops.

“Our team goals for 2013 season are to be an explosive and quick team,” Blair said. “We will also be looking for a winning season and district championship. Finding depth throughout this summer will be key. Younger players stepping up and filling holes that were lost from last year’s senior class. The weight room will be our biggest key this summer in becoming bigger and faster.”

5-4 in 2012 / 4-2 in district / 8-Man II Western Kansas Liberty League Coach: Anthony Blair (1st year) Assistants: Offense: Double Tight Defense: 5-1 Returning lettermen: 10 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 5 Defense Ty Carmichael, QB/LB, 6-1, 155, Sr.; Walker Janicke, TE/ DE, 6-3, 215, Sr.; Eddie Frisbie, RB/LB, 5-9, 145, Sr.; Devon Janicke, RB/CB, 5-8, 140, So.; Luis Solis, OL/DL, 5-10, 225, Sr.; Shawn Pochop, OL/DL, 5-10, 200, Jr. Conor Nicholl

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CALDWELL BLUE JAYS

CHASE KATS

Chase is part of a select group of Eight-Man, Division II teams that includes state powers Thunder Ridge, Baileyville B&B, Victoria, Otis-Bison and Wallace County that have made the playoffs in each of the last three years.

However, Chase is 0-3 in the playoffs with a 48-0 loss to Ashland in 2010, 74-24 to Ashland in 2011 and 48-0 to Hanover last year. Prior to 2010, Chase hadn’t made the playoffs since it lost to Midway 44-26 in the 1986 Eight-Man, Division II state championship game.

This year, the Kats graduated two all-state players in Cole Brady and Eric Root and will be very young with just three returning lettermen, all of whom played on both sides of the ball last year. Sophomore Brendon Clark will take over at quarterback for a program that has posted four straight winning seasons and posted strong offensive numbers. Second-year coach John Wellman is excited about his eighth grade class and believes Chase can compete again for a playoff spot this year with a strong summer and be strong for the next several seasons.

“We are just going to be really young,” Wellman said. “We have a really good sophomore class, and we have a really good incoming freshman class. It’s just kind of a weird thing with our numbers where, in the whole high 6-5 in 2012 / 4-1 in district / 8-Man II school, I think there are four boys in the senior South Central Border League and junior class combined.”

Coach: Sean Blosser (3rd year, 11-9) Wellman expects a talented Southern Cloud Assistants: David Teeter, Randy Sawyer squad to be the top team in District 2. Last year, Offense: Multiple Defense: Multiple four teams finished 5-1 or 4-2 in district play; Returning lettermen: 13 Chase won the district with a 5-0 finish to the Returning starters: 5 Offense, 5 Defense Darin Ward, QB, Jr.; Trent Kendrick, RB/LB, Jr.; Rhett regular season. For the season, it outscored Lee, RB/DB, Sr.; Hunter Stuewe, OL, Jr.; Devan York, opponents 48.2-28.2. In 2011, it was 55-40.1.

OL/DE, Sr.; Kaden Halling, S, Jr.; Sam Wencel, DB; In 2010, it was 44.2-21.3. In 2009, it was Brenden Cale, DL/LB, Sr. Conor Nicholl 50.2-34.3.

Caldwell has become one of the better Eight-Man, Division II teams in the last five years with five straight winning seasons and playoff victories in two of those years. Caldwell defeated Waverly, 50-36, in the first round and then lost 48-0 to Baileyville B&B in the second round last season. Caldwell lost in the first round in 2004 and ’05 before it won a playoff game in 2009 behind all-state quarterback Braden Labeda. Caldwell hasn’t made it past the second round since it lost 6-3 to Stockton in the 1993 Class 2-1A sub-state game.

This year, Caldwell returns five starters on both sides of the ball, including junior quarterback Darin Ward, who was an honorable mention all-league selection last year.

“In order for us to be successful we will need our seniors to step up and lead our team,” coach Sean Blosser said. “ We are a more experienced team now and we will need to step up to certain challenges we have not in previous seasons.

As a team we will need to have a good summer and use all the time available to get better as individuals and as a team. We have a good group of players returning that were able to experience the playoffs. and they are working to get back to them.”

7-3 in 2012 / 5-1 in district / 8-Man II Northern Plains League Coach: John Wellman (3rd year, 13-6) Assistants: Mitch Light Offense: Multiple Defense: Multiple Returning lettermen: 3 Returning starters: 3 Offense, 3 Defense Nathan Young, G/DE, 6-0, 195, Sr.; Michael Brown, RB/ DB, 6-0, 175, Jr.; Brendon Clark, LE/DB, 5-8, 150, So. Conor Nicholl

FOWLER GOLDBUGS of the more anticipated Week 1 matchups; the Goldbugs won last season 30-26. In Week 8, Fowler will play Moscow in district play. Fowler is 5-6 in the last 11 games against Moscow; at least 69 points have been scored in each of the last six contests.

“Our key to success this season is going to be attention to detail,” Bell said. “Execution offensively and defensively, as well as our seniors showing our younger kids the way that things need to be done in order to be successful.”

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CHETOPA GREEN HORNETS

DIGHTON HORNETS

Numbers are up for Chetopa, which has a 32man roster this season after playing with only 18 players a year ago, and coach Sean Price believes that his squad is ready to do big things.

“This is the most skilled group of athletes I’ve had as a head coach, and if our o-line can come together, I think we will be very exciting on offense,” he said. “Our kids have worked extremely hard in the weight room all year in preparation for the 2013 season.”

The Hornets return junior quarterback Philip Moses, running back Derrick Cassell, receivers Austen Sanders and Trenton Scott, tight end Leyton Carter and lineman Brice Riddle to lead the offense.

Chetopa’s defense brings back Riddle and Chisom Cloud at defensive end, Dylan Gainer at nose tackle, Cassell at linebacker and both Sanders and Scott in the secondary.

“We want to play much better defense, be more physical at the point of attack and be disciplined enough to play our position,” Price said. “We need to take pride in defense and stop making mental busts.”

“I feel like we are a team that can make a great run in the playoffs if we stay healthy and play as a team,” he added. “If we can be solid in every facet, offense, defense and special teams, then we could be very good.”

The Hornets open their season Sept. 6 against Marmaton Valley.

Last year, Dighton finished 3-6, a four-win decrease from the year prior. However, the Hornets were perhaps the scrappiest team in Kansas. Dighton had just 11 players, but had several injured in a 38-18 Week 3 loss to Quinter. The contest was stopped early because the Hornets ran out of players. Then, Dighton had to forfeit Week 4 against Hoxie. But Dighton played the final five games and went 2-3 with competitive games against playoff bound Otis-Bison (5034), Victoria (54-32) and a close home loss to Sylvan-Lucas in Week 8 (50-44).

Senior Issac Alinor returns after he paced the squad with 728 yards on 100 carries and 10 rushing TDs. He also caught 33 passes for 532 yards and seven TDs, all team-highs, and collected 1,872 all-purpose yards, more than twice as many as any teammate. Matt Mulville (108 tackles) and Alinor (65 stops) were 1-2 in tackles last year.

Coach Ken Simon’s goals are to be competitive and to be in a position to win every game, improve everyday, put a better team on the field every Friday and get out of districts and make playoffs.

Dighton’s keys to success are to have great turnout in the weight room for summer workouts, develop underclassmen and stay healthy.

As well, Dighton has to replace two offensive linemen and the starting quarterback because of graduation. Simon wants to be able to stop the run and run the football.

“Low numbers and lack of depth and certain positions,” Simon said. “Must stay healthy.”

5-4 in 2012 / 3-2 in district / 8-Man II Three Rivers League Coach: Sean Price (4th year, 16-12; 10th year overall, 43-44) Assistants: Adam Teal, Tyler Pike Offense: Spread Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 15 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Derrick Cassell, RB/LB, 6-1, 195, Jr.; Philip Moses, QB, 5-10, 150, Jr.; Austen Sanders, WR/FS, 5-10, 150, Sr.; Brice Riddle, OL/DE, 6-5, 250, Sr.; Leyton Carter, TE, 6-1, 180, Jr.; Trenton Scott, WR/SS, 5-10, 165, So.; Chisom Cloud, DE, 5-11, 200, Jr.; Dylan Gainer, NT, 6-1, 240, Jr. Melanie McGee

3-6 in 2012 / 2-3 in district / 8-Man II Northwest Kansas League Coach: Ken Simon (3rd year, 10-8) Assistants: N/A Offense: Multiple Defense: 5-1 Returning lettermen: 7 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 4 Defense Isaac Alinor, RB/LB, 6-1, 195, Sr.; Matt Mulville, FB/LB, 5-11, 190, Sr.; Ben Speer, OL/DE, 6-3, 220, Sr.; Wyatt Habiger, OL/TE/LB, 5-9, 175, Jr. Conor Nicholl

FRANKFORT WILDCATS

Fowler defeated Victoria, 17-14, in the first round last year, the first playoff win for a team involving Fowler since Minneola-Fowler reached the sub-state championship in 1994.

Tem Shetley had 10 tackles, three interceptions and kicked a 25-yard field goal in the last two minutes for the win. Shetley was one of Eight-Man, Division II’s top players after he rushed 187 times for 1,034 yards and 20 scores, but he was lost when his family moved back to Branson. He intercepted six passes and recovered three fumbles for a team that finished plus-22 in turnover margin. Shetley also had 445 return yards, kicked 34 conversions and three field goals.

But Fowler has a number of other talented players returning, including senior quarterback Taylin Bird, who completed 84 of 150 passes for 1,127 yards with 16 touchdowns against eight interceptions. He also rushed 119 times for 399 yards and 11 scores. Ty Clark is back after he paced the squad with 126 tackles.

Fowler will face Hodgeman County in one

W ith locations in F ow ler,M eade & C im arron

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Frankfort opened last season with a 3-0 record, including big wins against Southern Cloud, 66-20, in Week 1 and Hope, 50-42, in Week 2. Southern Cloud put together a nice season, especially offensively, and Hope is a traditional power. Frankfort eventually finished 4-0 in non-district action, but went 0-4 in a difficult district with eventual champion Baileyville B&B and Hanover, which lost to B&B in the sub-state championship game. All five teams finished with at least four victories and Axtell also collected a winning record. Frankfort, 9-2 in 2012 / 5-0 in district / 8-Man II which last made the playoffs two years ago, will Southern Plains Iroquois have to contend with the same district this year.

Coach: Matt Bell (2nd year, 9-2) The Wildcats return all of their starting Assistant: Tony Krier offensive linemen and Lucas Adams, who led Offense: Spread Option Defense: 3-3 the team with 931 rushing yards and 14 rushing Returning lettermen: 6 scores on 122 carries. Frankfort will need to Returning starters: 5 Offense, 3 Defense Taylin Bird, QB/CB, 5-11, 140, Sr.; Ty Clark, TE/MLB, 6-4, find a new quarterback and have a second 180, Sr.; Luke Huelskamp, RB/LB, 5-11, 155, Sr.; Nathan backfield option to Adams. The Wildcats bring Burdett, OL/DL, 5-11, 165, Sr.; Miguel Cortes, OL/DL, in nine freshmen, a big class.

6-0, 180, Jr. “We play in a very tough district, but we Conor Nicholl should be competitive,” veteran coach Garry

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Kraushaar said. “With so many starters coming back we should be able to be more diversified on both sides of the ball. It will be important to develop our young players to create depth and our experienced players will need to step up and show they can compete in the TVL.” 4-4 in 2012 / 0-4 in district / 8-Man II Twin Valley League Coach: Garry Kraushaar (5th year, 22-16) Assistants: Brian Ebety, Jay Kennedy, Dusty Thompson Offense: Split Backs Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 11 Returning starters: 8 Offense, 8 Defense Lucas Adams, RB/LB, 5-11, 170, Sr.; Kyle Vaughn, G/LB, 5-9, 183, Sr.; Brett Kenworthy, G/DE, 6-2, 205, Sr.; Derek Kraushaar, G/T, 6-1, 210, Sr.; Alex Roeder, TE/DB, 5-11, 160, Jr.; John Essman, C/T, 6-0, 235, Jr.; Jake Rose, QB/ LB, 5-10, 160, Jr.; Jacob Studer, TE/DB, 6-4, 180, Sr. Conor Nicholl

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GOOD LUCK

Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

GLASCO/MILTONVALE-SO. CLOUD WARRIORS

GRAINFIELD-WHEATLAND/GRINNELL THUNDERHAWKS

HANOVER WILDCATS

HOPE LIONS

Southern Cloud enjoyed a massive one-year turnaround last fall when it went from 0-9 to 5-4. This year, former defensive coordinator Tyler Williams takes over a program that could raise to another level. In 2011, opponents outscored the Warriors 468-60. Last year, opponents outscored Southern Cloud 354-311. All four captains return, including Jason McDaniel and Ryan Perkins, named the team’s Offensive and Defensive Players of the Year. McDaniel rushed 156 times for 1,214 yards and 14 scores, while Perkins led the team with 163 tackles, had 16 passes defended and four interceptions. Perkins also had a solid year passing, completing 35 of 70 passes for 633 yards and a 10/5 TD/INT. “We bring everyone back that made us successful,” Williams said.

Southern Cloud came close to the playoffs last year out of District 2. Chase and Goessel finished 5-1, while Hope and Southern Cloud were 4-2. Southern Cloud defeated Chase 70-50 and beat White City 42-36, but lost to Goessel (50-22) and Hope (36-6) in one of Eight-Man, Division II’s closer district battles. Southern Cloud last made the playoffs in 2002, when it lost 64-16 to Hope in the first round. Southern Cloud’s last playoff victory was a 45-14 first round victory against Elwood in 1990.

“Cohesion,” Williams said of the team’s keys. “We are a co-op so the kids do not see each other all day long like they do at other schools. They have developed a chemistry and we need that when we go through thick and thin together. If our team comes out this year mentally tough and ready to all do their jobs, then everything should take care of itself.”

Wheatland-Grinnell has delivered a 6-3 and 5-4 record in the last two seasons under veteran coach Tyler Flavin, but the Thunderhawks haven’t made the postseason. Two years ago, Wheatland-Grinnell lost a Week 9 winner-takeall game to determine a playoff berth versus Wallace County. Last year, losses to Wallace County, Weskan and Bird City-Cheylin kept Wheatland Grinnell from the playoffs. However, this year, District 6 appears to be wide-open behind Wallace County, considered a state contender. The Thunderhawks will have a strong opportunity for its first playoff appearance and third straight winning record.

“Continue to build on our offseason weight and conditioning program, we still have commitments to gain in that respect,” Flavin said of the team goals. “Work hard and improve every day in practice at each position and as a team.

Our team goals include finishing in the top three in our league and putting ourselves in position to steal that second district spot and getting a playoff berth.”

Playing better on the road will likely be a factor. The Thunderhawks were 4-1 at home and 1-3 on road. For the season, Wheatland-Grinnell outscored opponents 256-217, its second straight year of strong defense. The year prior, the Thunderhawks held a 336-150 margin.

Wade Buck (1,129 rushing yards) graduated, but senior Tucker Gillespie is back after he had a team-high 86 tackles.

“Our numbers will be down significantly, it will be vital that we keep our juniors and seniors healthy and on the football field,” Gillespie said. “We will depend on our sophomores to contribute as well, they need to gain some confidence early in the year and play well in meaningful district games.”

Hanover returned to its usual form last year after a rare down season in 2011. The Wildcats enjoyed a five-win improvement to 9-3 and only lost to Rock Hills, 26-0, in Week 2 and rival Baileyville B&B twice, 52-46, in Week 8 and 50-20 in the sub-state championship game.

Hanover finished No. 3 in the final KPreps’ Eight-Man, Division II rankings. B&B and Hanover will again battle in the east; the Falcons have won nine of the last 11 against Hanover, including the last seven in a row. However, four of the last seven losses are within 14 points.

This year, Hanover brings back six starters on both sides of the ball from a team that outscored opponents 564-232.

“It’s exciting,” Heuer said. “We have a lot of talent and a lot of athleticism.”

Junior Andrew Bruna, who completed 7 of 19 passes for 172 yards with a 6/0 TD/INT ratio, will take over full time at quarterback. Senior Kent Bruna is back after he finished third on the team in rushing last year with 65 carries for 393 yards and four scores and led the team with 103 tackles. Junior Hunter Nicholson returns after he led the team with 304 receiving yards and six TDs on 13 catches. Junior Ethan Fritschi paced the Wildcats with 13 tackles for loss.

“We are still pretty young,” Heuer said.

Hope missed the playoffs for just the second time in 20 years last fall with a 4-4 record, 4-2 in district play and 1-2 in the Wheat State League. The Lions opened the season 0-3 with a 60-14 loss to Solomon, a 50-42 defeat to Frankfort and a 42-22 loss to Chase. After a 48-44 victory against White City, Hope had an open date and then a 36-6 win against Southern Cloud.

Hope earned a 50-0 victory versus Burrton, a 56-12 win against Tescott and a season-ending 42-28 loss to Goessel.

The Lions outscored opponents 296-256 and had a six-win decrease from 2011. In 2011, Hope went 10-1 and outscored opponents 514-186.

Veteran coach Jeff Hostetter said the keys will be staying healthy, being able to use quickness to make up for lack of size and improving the defense and stopping the run. Hostetter wants to return to the playoffs this year. The only other time Hope missed the playoffs in the last 20 years was a 6-3 season in 2008.

“We will be small this year but we do got good speed,” Hostetter said. “Numbers will be low so we will have to stay heathy. Offensively we will throw the ball more this season. Defensively we will have to use our quickness to offset our lack of size.”

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Palco and Logan, two of the state’s smallest Eight-Man, Division II schools, will form a coop agreement for at least the next two years in football and boys’ basketball, but the agreement is expected to be long term, Logan athletic director Paul Prewo said. Palco-Logan will have to be an Eight-Man, Division I school this year and will not be eligible for postseason. Palco, the Eight-Man, Division II state runner-up in 2005, last made the playoffs in 2006. Logan’s 11-2 in 2012 / 6-0 in district / 8-Man II only playoff appearance since 1990 came in Northern Plains League 2002.

Coach: Jerry Voorhees (7th year, 62-15) Logan could have had its own team this seaAssistants: Brent Overmiller, Kirby Rust son, but would need to co-op likely after next Offense: I-formation Defense: 3-3 year. Prewo estimated this fall’s team will have Returning lettermen: 10 15 to 16 boys and eight from Palco.

Returning starters: 4 Offense, 6 Defense Garrett Krueger QB/LB, Sr.; Benton Hrabe OL/DE, Sr.; Dustin Patee, formerly the Beloit-St. Dalton Minor TE, Sr.; Larame Boyle LB, Jr.; Derrick John’s-Tipton assistant coach, will coach the Coomes DB, Sr.; Trent Rietzke RB, Jr.; Nolan Billings LB, squad. Mike Delimont, the Logan assistant last Jr.; Derek Reed DB, Jr. Conor Nicholl year, will remain on as assistant coach. Palco is likely to have an assistant coach, too.

Former Palco coach Justin Pierce left to take an assistant job at Eureka, and former Logan

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have to find the leaders on our football team that will take us where we want to go. One of our goals will be to win a district championship and make a deep run in the playoffs. To do this we will need a lot of underclassman to step up and play well for us. We have to have great leadership from our seniors. Our team will be pushed in the weight room this summer, which will be a huge key to our success in the fall.”

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4-4 in 2012/4-2 in district/8-man II Wheat State League Coach: Jeff Hostetter (23rd year, 196-62) Assistant: Joe Ross Offense: Option Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 6 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 5 Defense Adam Adkins, QB, 6-1, 150, Sr.; Trevor Hostetter, RB, 5-7, 150, Sr.; Dustin Davidson, OL, 6-2, 165, Sr.; Ty Wood, E, 5-11, 155, Sr.; Tate Riedy, OL, 5-9, 150, Jr.; Quenton Adkins, E, 5-10, 140, Jr. Conor Nicholl

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KENSINGTON-THUNDER RIDGE LONGHORNS Thunder Ridge rolled to the Eight-Man, Division II state championship with a 13-0 record in 2011. Last year, the Longhorns returned just three players with starting experience. Thunder Ridge changed its offense and opened with a blowout loss to Manktao-Rock Hills. Then, the Longhorns, ranked No. 4 in the preseason, returned to its traditional ground-and-pound attack and rolled off 11 straight victories before it lost to Baileyville B&B in the championship game. The season surprised many, including allstate running back Trevor Lowe, who rushed for more than 2,400 yards in the last two seasons combined. This year’s team brings back four offensive and six defensive starters, including senior quarterback/linebacker Garrett Krueger, the lone three-year starter and the leading tackler from last year. Running back Trent Rietzke was a speedy change-of-pace back to Lowe’s power, while Benton Hrabe is an anchor on the line.

“We have some big shoes to fill with our underclassman,” coach Jerry Voorhees said. “We

WARRIORS

5-4 in 2012 / 3-3 in district / 8-Man II Western Kansas Liberty League Coach: Tyler Flavin (6th year, 21-24) Assistants: Brendan Ptacek, Todd Flinn Offense: Multiple Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 7 Returning starters: 3 Offense, 4 Defense Tucker Gillespie, TE/LB, 5-9, 160, Sr.; Craig Prewo, OL/ DL, 5-11, 215, Sr.; Dominic Zimmerman, QB/DB, 6-0, 160, Jr.; Kaleb Holaday, TE/RB/OL, 6-2, 175, So. Conor Nicholl

GOOD LUCK

5-4 in 2012 / 4-2 in district / 8-Man II Northern Plains League Coach: Tyler Williams (1st year) Assistants: N/A Offense: I Defense: 3-3 Returning lettermen: 10 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Dakota Cooper, E/DB, 6-0, 185, Sr.; Ryan Perkins, QB/ DB, 5-10, 160, Sr.; Lance Heller, G/LB, 6-2, 190, Sr.; Jason McDaniel, FB/LB, 5-6, 215, Sr.; Storm Myer, C/DE, 5-10, 220, Sr.; Justin Pelkey, RB/LB, 5-7, 190, Jr. Conor Nicholl

9-3 in 2012 / 3-1 in district / 8-Man II Twin Valley League Coach: Matt Heuer (8th year, 66-20) Assistants: Chris Beikmann, John Bruna Offense: Multiple Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 17 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Ethan Fritschi, C/DE, 6-5, 230, Jr.; Brandon Jueneman, RG/LB, 6-0, 190, Sr.; Austin Diederich, LB, 6-1, 185, Jr.; Wade Steinfort, E/DE, 6-1, 190, Jr.; Hunter Nicholson, E/DB, 6-0, 175, Jr.; Kent Bruna, 5-10, 165, RB/S, Sr.; Preston Jueneman, LB, 6-1, 175, Jr. Conor Nicholl

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coach Brandon Gehring went to Oberlin-Decatur Community to coach girls’ basketball.

Palco, after a 15-12 record in Pierce’s first three seasons, dropped back to 0-9 last fall and has very low boy numbers in the school. Opponents outscored the Roosters 507-112 last season. Logan went 2-7 and opponents outscored the Trojans 361-223. The Trojans had three straight one-win seasons prior to last year. Palco will bring junior Blake Gehring, who completed 37 of 89 passes for 585 yards and a 5/4 TD/ INT ratio with 121 rushing yards and one score, and sophomore Dustin Hamel (team-high 109 tackles). Senior Brett Pinkerton threw for 658 yards (6/11 TD/INT) and 701 rushing yards (7 rush TDs), and senior Kyle Pakkebier had 144 tackles (11 TFLs) for Logan last fall.

Coach: Dustin Patee Assistant: Mike Delimont

Conor Nicholl

Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

Page 81

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Natoma went through a tumultuous offseason when coach Fred Winter, after one year of leading the program, left for Hays in early summer. Winter’s son, Maddux, was the starting quarterback. He transferred to Hays High. Aaron Homburg, the longtime Natoma superintendent, defensive coordinator and girls’ basketball coach, took over the program with less than two months before the season started. Palco approached Natoma about forming a co-op, but the Tigers will remain as its own team.

The Tigers return senior Jackson Meiers, arguably the state’s best kicker and an electrifying playmaker. Meiers has started all four years and has received contact from multiple NCAA Division I schools, including Auburn. Meiers received all-state honors last fall. He has also started for multiple years on both sides of the ball. Senior Cale Hooper has seen time for several seasons, too.

Natoma had a two-win improvement last season. They tallied 20 or more points in six games, but allowed 28 or more in eight contests.

Long known for a high-scoring offense under former coach Ben Labertew, the Tigers also had some big scores last year, including Wilson (6641 loss), Palco (72-28 win) and Logan (47-34 win). The Tigers haven’t made the postseason since a 7-3 mark in 2007.

Otis-Bison has put together an impressive last four years: a 40-6 record, four straight undefeated district crowns, four straight years winning a playoff game and a state runner-up crown in 2010. Last year, the Cougars finished 9-2, lost to Thunder Ridge in sub-state and finished No. 4 in the final Eight-Man, Division II KPreps. com poll.

This year, coach Travis Starr looks to extend the playoff streak to five years after he graduated eight seniors, including Dylan Wissman, who accounted for more than 5,000 all-purpose yards in his career and collected Hays Daily News Offensive Player of the Year honors last year. Lineman Sam Higgason, an all-state lineman, also graduated.

Senior quarterback Kole Urban, senior end/ linebacker Jordan Hoffman and junior guard Kade Hagans are the lone returning starters.

Hoffman was the fastest sprinter in Class 1A last spring and had chances at three gold medals, but injured his leg in the 100-meter dash prelims at state. Urban completed 31 of 66 passes for 504 yards with a 5/1 TD/INT, rushed 94 times for 468 yards and nine scores, collected 76 passes and led the team with 11 passes defended and three interceptions. Lineman Colin Regan is the only other senior.

“Work hard to get better every practice and game,” Starr said of team keys. “Be peaking at start of district play. We need first-year starters to fill many positions. How quickly they do this will determine success. Need leadership to emerge from senior class.”

3-6 in 2012 / 2-4 in district / 8-Man II Northern Plains League Coach: Aaron Homburg (1st year) Assistants: N/A Offense: Multiple Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 10 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 5 Defense Jackson Meiers, WR/DB/K, Sr.; Cale Hooper, RB/LB, Sr.; Elijah Holmes, OL/ILB, Sr.; Jacob Chambray, OL/DB, Jr.; Seth Hachmeister, FB/LB, Jr. Conor Nicholl

9-2 in 2012 / 5-0 in district / 8-Man II Central Prairie League Coach: Travis Starr (9th year, 52-30) Assistants: N/A Offense: Multiple Defense: 5-1 Returning lettermen: 9 Returning starters: 3 Offense, 2 Defense Kole Urban, QB/S, 150, Sr.; Kade Hagans, OG, 165, Jr.; Jordan Hoffman, TE/LB, 180, Sr. Conor Nicholl

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RANSOM-WESTERN PLAINS/HEALY BOBCATS Western Plains went 5-4 in 2008, but then dropped back to 2-7 in 2009. In 2010, the Bobcats ran into some struggles with an 0-9 season that included three forfeits. In 2011, Western Plains played a partial schedule and wasn’t eligible for the postseason. However, the Bobcats went 6-1. Last year, Western Plains played a full schedule for the first time since 2009 and went 2-7. As well, the Bobcats moved to the Western Kansas Liberty League from the Central Prairie League. The CPL has much larger schools than the WKLL and the Bobcats had struggles competing in any sports.

This year, longtime athletic director, football and baseball coach Mike Jenner is excited about his team’s prospects. The squad has nine seniors. Western Plains is a co-op of Ransom and Bazine. Ransom hasn’t made the playoffs since 1994; Bazine since 1995. The Bobcats do have several skilled athletes, including Juan Mendez,

who placed in the Class 1A triple jump – the first Western Plains athlete to place at the state track meet since 2009.

“I told the guys this year that I think there is no reason if we get after it and work hard, we can’t be at least .500, if not better,” Jenner said.

“Our goal is to get to the playoffs. Once you get to the playoffs, everything else is gravy.”

2-7 in 2012 / 0-5 in district / 8-Man II Western Kansas Liberty League Coach: Mike Jenner (20th year) Assistants: N/A Offense: Multiple Defense: Multiple Returning lettermen: 8 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 5 Defense Drake Wentz, RB/LB, Sr., 6-2, 190; Andrew Flax, C, 5-11, 210, Sr.; Juan Mendez, E/CB, 5-8, 130, Sr.; Eddie Beckett, QB/DB, 5-6, 145, Sr.; Nick Jasper, OL/DL, 6-2, 200, So. Conor Nicholl

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Golden Plains has long been one of eightman’s higher scoring teams and consistently a four-win or better program. However, the Bulldogs started 2-1 before it lost their final six games, including a 45-36 loss to Triplains-Brewster, a team that had a 22-game losing streak entering the contest. This year’s team will have six seniors and adds senior Shane Ryburn, a Wheatland-Grinnell transfer.

“A good offseason can help push us back in the right direction,” coach Travis Smith said.

“We have the ability to be a very competitive team, but our seniors will have to step up and be leaders starting this summer.”

Smith said senior end Tristan Schwarz, senior quarterback Grant Spresser and Ryburn will be key to the team. Schwarz and junior Joseph Koerperich will start at the ends. Juniors Benny Martinez and Braden Korte will anchor the line.

Korte missed all but one game as a freshman and seven last year.

“Defense will need to carry the team early as newcomers fill roles on offense,” Smith said.

Smith said the Week 1 contest against Quinter – a team with 37 wins, three playoff appearances and a state championship in the last five years - will be key. Golden Plains has lost five straight to Quinter, all by at least 18 points.

“In the last couple of seasons, we have gotten away from competing,” Smith said. “A winning season is our main goal. If that happens, the other things will fall in line. We need to be more competitive in games against high caliber opponents.”

This year, the Wildcats are again expected to be among the elite after they return plenty from a 10-1 team that lost to Thunder Ridge in the sub-state championship game last year. Coach Kevin Ayers has made the playoffs all seven years with the Wildcats, and all but his first two years as coach. He has three 10-win seasons with Sharon Springs, including a 13-0 record and state title in 2007.

The Wildcats do graduate four-year starting quarterback Gavin Mote and running back Eli Kuhlman, but brings back lineman Clay Schemm, the District 6 Defensive MVP. Wallace County allowed just 100 points last year and returns its second through fifth-leading tacklers in junior Nate Klinge (76 stops), senior Kyle Gfeller (70, 3 INTS, 6 passes defended, both team-highs), Schemm (52, team-high seven sacks) and senior Callahan Grund (50, five sacks). As well, senior Dalton Walker is back after he recorded a team-high eight tackles for loss for a team. Ayers said sophomore Luke Schemm (44 tackles, 3 sacks) and senior Tyrell Springsteel are also expected to “make big contributions.”

“Have to play hungry each week,” Ayers said.

“Improvement everyday is essential to reach our goals. A tough, non-district schedule will hopefully have us prepared for a very competitive district. We hope to put a better football team on the field each week. Players stepping forward and leading this team will be the key to our season.”

Stockton will have its fifth coach since 2007 and will look for its first playoff berth in 11 years under veteran Otis Hendryx this fall.

Hendryx was an assistant last year after he coached for four years at Chase and one year at Yates Center. In 2010, Hendryx led Chase to its first playoff berth since 1986.

Last year, Stockton had a three-win improvement under then-coach Bill Germaine. The Tigers ended a 14-game losing streak against KSHSAA teams in Week 1 with a 22-18 victory against Hill City. Stockton also defeated Natoma 38-22 in Week 4 and then ended the season with a 62-16 victory against Palco and a 56-26 victory against Logan.

Stockton does graduate quarterback Koby Beougher, who threw for 742 yards with a 13/2 TD/INT ratio last season. Junior Jaden Williams, who rushed for 331 yards and averaged 13.8 yards per carry, is still recovering after he suffered a knee injury at state basketball. Senior Colton Hull is back after he paced the team with 82 carries for 423 yards and eight scores.

Hendryx called the “summer workout program” the team’s key to success.

“Team goals are to be better prepared than our opponent each and every week,” Hendryx said.

Coach Ben Labertew, a former all-state quarterback at Sylvan Unified and then the coach at Natoma for a decade, went 4-5 for a two-win improvement with the Mustangs last year. Sylvan is now 5-4, 2-7 and 4-5 in the three years since Sylvan Grove consolidated with Lucas-Luray.

This year, Labertew’s goal is to finish in the top two in district and advance to the playoffs.

Sylvan-Lucas brings back six offensive and four defensive starters from a team that remained in playoff contention until the end of the year. Sylvan-Lucas defeated Natoma, 44-20, in Week 1 and lost to Lincoln 32-24 and Atwood 30-28 in the next two weeks before being blow out by Solomon and Victoria. Sylvan-Lucas then won three straight district games and then lost to Otis-Bison, 76-26, in Week 9. Opponents outscored the Mustangs 326-304. In 2011, opponents outscored the Mustangs 393-254.

The Mustangs will miss running back/linebacker Brogan Naylor and center/defensive end Paul Barrientes, both 8-Man All-Stars, who graduated.

“How we develop physically and mentally over the summer will be very important for us,” Labertew said. “We lost some good football players to graduation, and some young kids are going to have to step up and fill those holes.”

2-7 in 2012 / 1-4 in district / 8-Man II Western Kansas Liberty League Coach: Travis Smith: (14th year, 60-62) Assistant: Heath Johnson Offense: Multiple Defense: Multiple Returning lettermen: 12 Returning starters: 3 Offense, 3 Defense Tristan Schwarz, TE/DE, 6-2, 190, Sr.; Grant Spresser, QB, 6-1, 170, Sr.; Benny Martinez, C/LB, 5-10, 210, Jr.; Josh Barnhart, DB, 5-6, 120, Sr.; Zach Spresser, DB, 5-10, 150, Sr.; Joseph Koerperich, DE, 6-4, 165, Jr. Conor Nicholl

10-1 in 2012 / 5-0 in district / 8-Man II Western Kansas Liberty League Coach: Kevin Ayers (8th year, 61-15; 16th overall, 140-26 overall) Assistants: Dennis Gfeller, Jeff Hennick Offense: Option Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 8 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 5 Defense Kyle Gfeller, TB/DB, 5-10, 150, Sr.; Callahan Grund, E/ DL, 5-10, 150, Sr.; Cayden Daily, WR, 5-9, 132, Sr.; Coach Greg Brown went 84-54 in 13 years, Dalton Walker, C/DL, 5-9, 215, Sr.; Clay Schemm, G/DL, 6-2, 180, Sr.; Nate Klinge, FB/LB, 5-10, 180, Jr. but finished 1-17 in the last two seasons.

Conor Nicholl Greeley County has lost 11 in a row entering

“We want to get better each day, have a better summer in the weight room and excel at the things we can control,” Walker said. “It’s a good group of young men and we are looking forward to the season.”

The season begins with a home game against Logan, then a trip to Natoma and home games against Burrton and Wilson.

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0-9 in 2012 / 0-6 in district / 8-Man II Northwest Kansas League Coach: Nathan Broeckelman (1st year) Assistants: N/A Offense: Pro Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 5 Returning starters: 3 Offense, 3 Defense Elijah Stone, RB/S, 5-5, 140, Sr.; Cody Harney, FB/DE, 6-0, 190, Jr.; Tycel Wilcox, QB/DB, 5-9, 140, So. Nicholl

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this fall. First-year coach Nathan Broeckelman is a Norton graduate who also restarted the Jackrabbits’ wrestling program last winter. He has set a goal to make the playoffs and end with a winning record.

Broeckelman said the keys to success will be learning a new offensive system and being disciplined on both sides of the ball. Greeley County will need improvement in many areas, including a passing game that finished 32 of 111 for 582 yards with a 1/15 TD/INT ratio.

1-8 in 2012 / 1-3 in district / 8-Man II Northern Plains League Coach: Daymon Walker (8th year) Assistant: GA Frederking Offense: Multiple Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: 9 Tax Service•Accounting•Computer Services•Estate & Financial Planning Returning starters: 5 offense, 5 defense Kyle Comstock, RB/LB, Sr.; Joe Huerta, E/LB, Sr.; Jacob Thomas B. Carpenter, CPA Falder, G/LB, Sr.; Corby Case, NG, Sr.; Cody Comstock, PO BOX 508 • 503 Main • stockton • 67669 • 800-425-6765 LB, Sr.; George Huerta, C, Jr.; Joel McCosh, E, Jr. Melanie McGee “It’s Not What You Make...It’s What You Keep”

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4-5 in 2012 / 3-2 in district / 8-Man II Northern Plains League Coach: Ben Labertew (2nd year, 4-5, 9th overall, 37-38) Assistants: Cody Flinn, Ryan Batchman, Devon Walter Offense: Multiple Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: 9 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 4 Defense Nick Lawson, R/DE, 6-2, 180, Sr.; Riggs Walter, E, 5-10, 150, Sr.; Trai Heenan, E, 5-9, 140, Sr.; Collin Herald, QB/ DE, 6-1, 175, Jr.; Ty Heenan, DB, 5-9, 140, Jr.; Kelvin Lopez, RB/DB, 6-2, 185, Jr.; Tim Schulties, DB, 5-10, 170, Jr.; Fritz Berger, 6-2, 280, Jr. C onor Nicholl

TRIBUNE-GREELEY COUNTY JACKRABBITS

TESCOTT TROJANS

The Trojans return a solid group of skill players and they’ll need several of their young players to grow up quickly to be successful in 2013.

“We have some good skill people, but will have to develop some young linemen and a quarterback,” coach Daymon Walker said.

“How we progress will be very connected to how we develop up front on both offense and defense. We have some big young kids who will have to grow up in a hurry.”

Tescott returns senior running back Kyle Comstock, senior end Joe Huerta, junior end Joel McCosh, senior guard Jacob Falder and junior center George Huerta to pace the offense.

The Trojan defense will be anchored by senior noseguard Corby Case and a solid group of linebackers – senior Cody Comstock, Kyle Comstock, Falder and Joe Huerta.

4-5 in 2012 / 3-3 in district / 8-Man II Mid-Continent League Coach: Otis Hendryx (1st year; 9th overall, 58-33) Assistants: Clint Bedore, Andrew Ables Offense: Multiple Defense: 3-3 Returning lettermen: 15 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Colton Hull, RB/OLB, 5-9, 160, Sr.; Cody Hrabe, OL/ MLB, 6-0, 215, Sr.; Casey Deitcher, RB/DB, 5-11, 170, Jr.; Justin Wiltfong, E/DE, 6-5, 185, Jr.; Erik Scott, OL/ DE, 5-10, 175, Jr.; Kale Kuhlman, RB/DB, 5-9, 155, Jr.; Andrew Bellerive, TE/DL, 6-1, 180, Jr.; Nolan Lowry, RB/ OLB, 5-6, 135, So.; Ethan Hamel, RB/OLB, 5-9, 140, So. Conor Nicholl

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Page 83

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VICTORIA KNIGHTS

WESKAN COYOTES

WILSON DRAGONS

WINONA-TRIPLAINS/BREWSTER TITANS

Victoria experienced some trouble in Week 1 when running back/linebacker Dalton Dreiling, in his third year as a starter and the team’s top player with more than 1,800 career rushing yards, went down with a knee injury. However, Bryan Dome, a starter all year at safety, took over for Dreiling in the backfield. Tanner Hobbs, also a starter at end, played in Dreiling’s stead at linebacker.

Sam Ottley, in his first year as a starting quarterback, collected more than 1,700 total yards and accounted for 29 scores in the regular season, while Noah Dreiling became the best pass-catching end in the Doug Oberle era.

Dalton Dreiling came back at the end of the season and Victoria earned its 11th straight playoff appearance, the longest current streak in eight-man football. The Knights, with two state titles and one runner-up appearance since 2004, look to return to Newton for the first time since 2008. Ottley, Dome, Hobbs and Noah Dreiling, among others, return.

“We have some guys coming back especially in the skill spots,” Oberle said. “With the injuries that we had last year, we had some young guys step up.”

Victoria is 12-9 in the last two seasons, but played the classification’s No. 2 strength of schedule in 2011 and No. 1 hardest last fall, according to preppowerindex.com.

Weskan was possibly the biggest small school surprise last year. After back-to-back winless seasons, the Coyotes went 4-5 in 2011. Last year, Weskan improved to 8-2 and finished as district runner-up to Wallace County-Sharon Springs before it lost to Thunder Ridge, the eventual state finalist, in the first round of the playoffs. Quarterback Sam McKinney threw for 1,402 yards with a 30/2 TD/INT ratio and Hayden Walker, now a senior, was one of the nation’s leaders among eight-man receivers with 37 catches for 937 yards and 20 scores.

Cowles was Eight-Man, Division II District 6 Coach of the Year, McKinney earned Hays Daily News Super 11 honors and he and Walker collected all-state honors. This year, Walker will move to quarterback.

“Finding a dependable target for him will be important,” Cowles said. “Once again, our district will be challenging, but also wide open.

Sharon Springs will once again be the class of our district with the rest of us playing for the second spot in the playoffs.”

Four starters graduated on both sides of the ball, but Walker, junior Tyler Compton (105 carries, 551 yards, five TDs, 92 tackles) and linemen Layne Miller and Robert Martin return on both sides of the ball. Martin had 76 tackles (team-high 13 for loss) and Miller collected 55 tackles, nine for loss. All four returning starters were all-league; Cowles said Martin “must be a factor” on both sides and Miller “must get even better.” Weskan is expected to have just 13 players.

“We also need a couple kids to step up and become bona fide starters,” Cowles said. “Staying healthy will also be very important due to lack of experience in our younger players.”

Wilson had another high offense/high defense year last fall. The Dragons averaged 37.5 points from 2006-10 and then averaged 37.1 points in 2011. Last year, Wilson tallied 36.8 points but allowed 53.2 points per contest. Wilson lost 6450 to Chase in Week 1, lost 70-38 to Kinsley, then defeated Natoma 66-41 and Tescott 82-34.

In Week 5, Wilson beat Ransom-Western Plains 40-28, lost to Dighton 60-14, Sylvan-Lucas 6620, Otis-Bison 60-14 and Victoria 56-8.

Under coach Tony Brokes, Wilson has five playoff appearances and two district titles in 1998 and 2006. This year, Brokes expects Victoria and Dighton to challenge for the top in district play and Mankato-Rock Hills and Thunder Ridge to be at the top of the Northern Plains League. Jordan Bess graduated after he earned all-state honors at quarterback when he passed for 1,068 yards and a 13/9 TD/INT ratio and rushed for 650 yards and 15 scores. Senior Marcus Denham is back after he led the team with 818 yards on 103 carries for 13 scores.

He also caught 24 passes for 368 yards and a team-high six TDs. “With limited upperclassmen and experience in key positions, the Dragons have several questions that need to be answered,” Brokes said.

“We will face adversity in the season, how we choose to react to the many challenges will determine the success of this team. Several young players will have to step up early in the year to give the Dragons a chance to produce wins.”

Triplains-Brewster enjoyed a massive turnaround last season after back-to-back winless records. The Titans went 0-8 in 2010 and ’11 and opponents outscored them 408-12 and 421-24 in the two seasons. Last year, the Titans lost their first five games to run its losing streak to 22 contests, but then defeated Golden Plains 45-36 in Week 6 and Tribune-Greeley County 40-26 in Week 7.

The Titans nearly finished the season with four straight victories, but lost 46-42 to Colby-Heartland Christian and 40-36 to Bird-City Cheylin.

Opponents outscored the Titans 390-220.

Senior Phil Kulas was first team all-league as a kicker/punter and was one of the state’s top specialists. The Titans had a 24-player roster last season, large for a co-op of its size, including eight seniors.

This year, the team brings back senior Seth Smith, who is the team’s only player who has started more than one year. Smith was a first team all-league guard and defensive back last fall. Running back Nate Jorgensen is back after he was an honorable mention all-league selection as a junior.

As usual, the Titans will alternate between Winona and Brewster for home games. The Titans open the season in Winona for Winona’s Homecoming against Ransom-Western Plains.

After two road games, the Titans will then have Brewster’s Homecoming against Wheatland-Grinnell. After two more road games, the Titans play host to Greeley County in Winona, go on the road in Colby against Heartland Christian and then head to Brewster to finish the regular season against Bird City-Cheylin.

6-4 in 2012 / 4-1 in district / 8-Man II Central Prairie League Coach: Doug Oberle (8th year, 62-18) Assistants: Stuart Moeckel, Dan Rogers Offense: Option Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 9 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 5 Defense Sam Ottley, QB/DB, 6-1, 180, Sr.; Bryan Dome, FB/S, 5-6, 160, Jr.; Tanner Hobbs, TE/LB, 5-11, 185, Sr.; Trenton Klaus, G/OL, 5-8, 185, Sr.; Clayton Roth, TB/DB, 8-2 in 2012 / 5-1 in district / 8-Man II 6-1, 160, Sr.; Noah Dreiling, TE, 6-1, 160, Jr. Western Kansas Liberty League Conor Nicholl Coach: Marc Cowles (12th year, 54-53) Assistants: Ty See Offense: Multple Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 5 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 4 Defense Hayden Walker, QB/DE, 6-2, 165, Sr.; Tyler Compton, RB/LB, 5-10, 160, Sr.; Robert Martin, OL/LB, 5-10, 200, Sr.; Leyton Miller, RB/LB, 5-10, 210, Sr. Conor Nicholl

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3-6 in 2012 / 1-4 in district / 8-Man II Northern Plains League Coach: Tony Brokes (17th year, 60-89) Assistants: Keith Staudinger Offense: Spread Defense: 3-2 2-7 in 2012/2-4 in district/8-man II Returning lettermen: 6 Western Kansas Liberty League Returning starters: 4 Offense, 4 Defense Coach: Tony Stramel (2nd year, 2-7) Marcus Denham, B, 6-0, 190, Sr.; Justin Zamecnick, B, 5-9, 190, Jr.; Jordyn Steinike, B, 5-9, 190, Jr.; John Rich, G, 6-2, 220, Jr. Conor Nicholl

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KANSAS HIGH SCHOOL SCHEDULES 2013 COLLEGE SCHEDULES ON PAGE 89; TH=THURSDAY; SAT=SATURDAY

6A SCHEDULES Junction City (6-3) Sep 06 at Hays Sep 13 Topeka Seaman Sep 20 Shawnee Heights Sep 27 at Topeka Hayden Oct 04 Topeka Highland Park Oct 11 at Topeka West (TH) Oct 18 Washburn Rural Oct 25 at Topeka High Nov 01 at Manhattan

Derby (10-2) Sep 06 Salina South Sep 13 at Andover Central Sep 20 Maize Sep 27 at Salina Central Oct 04 at Haysville Campus Oct 11 Hutchinson Oct 18 Wichita SE Oct 25 at Wichita East Nov 01 Wichita Heights

Dodge City (5-6) Sep 06 at Wichita SE Sep 13 Wichita Northwest Sep 20 at Wichita Heights Sep 27 Liberal Oct 04 at Great Bend Oct 11 Hays Oct 18 at Hutchinson Oct 25 Maize Nov 01 at Garden City

Garden City (5-4) Sep 06 at Bixby (Okla.)

Sep 13 Woodward (Okla.)

Sep 20 Great Bend Sep 27 at Hays Oct 04 at Liberal Oct 11 Wichita East Oct 18 at Maize Oct 25 Hutchinson Nov 01 Dodge City

Gardner-Edgerton (6-4) Sep 06 at Blue Valley Sep 13 Blue Valley NW Sep 20 at Blue Valley SW Sep 27 Bishop Miege Oct 04 at Blue Valley West Oct 11 Blue Valley North Oct 18 at Olathe South Oct 25 Olathe North Nov 01 at Olathe Northwest

Hutchinson (10-3) Sep 06 Salina Central Sep 13 at Haysville Campus Sep 20 at Rockhurst (Mo.) Sep 27 Newton Oct 04 at Salina South Oct 11 at Derby Oct 18 Dodge City Oct 25 at Garden City Nov 01 Maize

KC Wyandotte (5-4) Sep 06 at Van Horn (Mo.) Sep 13 at KC Harmon Sep 20 KC Sumner Academy Sep 27 at Atchison Oct 04 at KC Schlagle Oct 11 KC Washington Oct 18 Lawrence Free State Oct 25 at Lawrence Nov 01 Leavenworth

Lawrence (8-3) Sep 06 at Olathe South (TH) Sep 13 SM East Sep 20 at SM West (TH-SMS) Sep 27 Olathe Northwest Oct 04 at SM Northwest (SMN) Oct 11 Olathe North Oct 18 at Leavenworth Oct 25 KC Wyandotte Nov 01 at Lawrence Free State

Lawrence Free State (10-2) Sep 06 SM North Sep 13 at SM Northwest (SMN) Sep 20 Olathe East Sep 27 SM West Oct 04 at Olathe North (TH) Oct 11 at SM East (SMN) Oct 18 at KC Wyandotte Oct 25 Leavenworth Nov 01 Lawrence

Leavenworth (4-5) Sep 06 SM East Sep 13 SM North Sep 20 Olathe South Sep 27 at SM Northwest (TH-SMN) Oct 04 at SM West (TH-SMS) Oct 11 at Olathe East Oct 18 Lawrence Oct 25 at Lawrence Free State Nov 01 at KC Wyandotte

Maize (5-4) Sep 06 Newton Sep 13 Salina South Sep 20 at Derby Sep 27 Goddard Oct 04 at Salina Central (TH) Oct 11 Haysville Campus Oct 18 Garden City Oct 25 at Dodge City Nov 01 at Hutchinson

Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

Page 84

Manhattan (6-4) Sep 06 at Mill Valley Sep 13 Emporia Sep 20 at Topeka Seaman Sep 27 at Topeka Highland Park Oct 04 Topeka West Oct 11 at Shawnee Heights Oct 18 Topeka High Oct 25 at Washburn Rural Nov 01 Junction City

Olathe East (6-5) Sep 06 at Olathe North Sep 13 Olathe Northwest Sep 20 at Lawrence Free State Sep 27 at SM North Oct 04 Olathe South Oct 11 Leavenworth Oct 18 at Blue Valley North (TH) Oct 25 Blue Valley NW Nov 01 at SM South (TH)

Olathe North (3-7) Sep 06 Olathe East Sep 13 SM South Sep 20 at SM North (TH) Sep 27 SM East Oct 04 Lawrence Free State (TH) Oct 11 at Lawrence Oct 18 at Olathe Northwest Oct 25 at Gardner-Edgerton Nov 01 Olathe South

Olathe Northwest (2-7) Sep 06 SM Northwest Sep 13 at Olathe East Sep 20 at SM East (SMN) Sep 27 at Lawrence Oct 04 SM North Oct 11 at SM West (SMS) Oct 18 Olathe North Oct 25 at Olathe South Nov 01 Gardner-Edgerton

Olathe South (5-4) Sep 06 Lawrence (TH) Sep 13 at SM West Sep 20 at Leavenworth Sep 27 SM South Oct 04 at Olathe East Oct 11 SM Northwest Oct 18 Gardner-Edgerton Oct 25 Olathe Northwest Nov 01 at Olathe North

OP-Blue Valley North (1-8) Sep 06 at Bishop Miege Sep 13 Blue Valley SW (TH) Sep 20 at Blue Valley West Sep 27 Blue Valley Oct 04 St. Thomas Aquinas Oct 11 at Gardner-Edgerton Oct 18 Olathe East (TH) Oct 25 SM South Nov 01 at Blue Valley NW

OP-Blue Valley NW (5-5) Sep 06 St. Thomas Aquinas Sep 13 at Gardner-Edgerton Sep 20 Bishop Miege (TH) Sep 27 at Blue Valley West (TH) Oct 04 at Blue Valley Oct 11 Blue Valley SW Oct 18 at SM South (TH) Oct 25 at Olathe East Nov 01 Blue Valley North

Shawnee Mission East (7-3) Sep 06 at Leavenworth Sep 13 at Lawrence Sep 20 Olathe Northwest (SMN) Sep 27 at Olathe North Oct 04 at SM South Oct 11 Lawrence Free State (SMN) Oct 18 SM Northwest (SMS) Oct 25 SM West (SMS) Nov 01 at SM North

Shawnee Mission North (0-9) Sep 06 at Lawrence Free State Sep 13 at Leavenworth Sep 20 Olathe North (TH) Sep 27 Olathe East Oct 04 at Olathe Northwest Oct 11 SM South (TH) Oct 18 SM West Oct 25 at SM Northwest (SMN) Nov 01 SM East

Shawnee Mission NW (2-7) Sep 06 at Olathe Northwest Sep 13 Lawrence Free State (SMN) Sep 20 at SM South Sep 27 Leavenworth (TH-SMN) Oct 04 Lawrence (SMN) Oct 11 at Olathe South Oct 18 at SM East (SMS) Oct 25 SM North (SMN) Nov 01 at SM West (SMS)

Shawnee Mission South (4-5) Sep 06 SM West Sep 13 at Olathe North Sep 20 SM Northwest Sep 27 at Olathe South Oct 04 SM East Oct 11 at SM North (TH) Oct 18 Blue Valley NW (TH) Oct 25 at Blue Valley North Nov 01 Olathe East (TH)

Shawnee Mission West (12-1) Sep 06 at SM South Sep 13 Olathe South Sep 20 Lawrence (TH-SMS) Sep 27 at Lawrence Free State Oct 04 Leavenworth (TH-SMS) Oct 11 Olathe Northwest (SMS) Oct 18 at SM North Oct 25 at SM East (SMS) Nov 01 SM Northwest (SMS)

Topeka High (9-2) Sep 06 Topeka Highland Park Sep 13 at Topeka Hayden Sep 20 Topeka West Sep 27 at Shawnee Heights Oct 04 Topeka Seaman Oct 11 Emporia Oct 18 at Manhattan Oct 25 Junction City Nov 01 at Washburn Rural

Topeka-Washburn Rural (4-5) Sep 06 Blue Valley West Sep 13 at Topeka Highland Park Sep 20 Topeka Hayden Sep 27 at Topeka West Oct 04 Shawnee Heights Oct 11 at Topeka Seaman Oct 18 at Junction City Oct 25 Manhattan Nov 01 Topeka High

Wichita East (5-4) Sep 06 at Wichita North (at WH) Sep 13 at Wichita West (at NW) Sep 20 Wichita Northwest (South) Sep 27 Wichita South (South) Oct 04 Kapaun (TH-South) Oct 11 at Garden City Oct 18 at Wichita Heights (TH) Oct 25 Derby Nov 01 Wichita SE (South)

Wichita Heights (7-3) Sep 06 at Bishop Carroll Sep 13 Wichita South Sep 20 Dodge City Sep 27 at Kapaun (Cessna) Oct 04 Wichita West Oct 11 at Wichita Northwest Oct 18 Wichita East (TH) Oct 25 at Wichita SE (TH) Nov 01 at Derby

Wichita North (1-9) Sep 06 Wichita East (at WH) Sep 13 Bishop Carroll (TH at WH) Sep 20 at Kapaun (Cessna) Sep 27 Great Bend (at WH) Oct 04 at Wichita SE (at NW) Oct 11 at Wichita West (TH at NW) Oct 18 at Wichita South Oct 25 Wichita Northwest (at WH) Nov 01 Haysville Campus (at WH)

Wichita Northwest (6-4) Sep 06 Kapaun (TH) Sep 13 at Dodge City Sep 20 at Wichita East (South) Sep 27 Wichita SE (TH) Oct 04 at Bishop Carroll Oct 11 Wichita Heights Oct 18 Haysville Campus Oct 25 at Wichita North (at WH) Nov 01 Wichita South

Wichita South (1-8) Sep 06 Wichita West Sep 13 at Wichita Heights Sep 20 Bishop Carroll (TH) Sep 27 at Wichita East (South) Oct 04 Hays Oct 11 at Wichita SE (South) Oct 18 Wichita North Oct 25 at Haysville Campus Nov 01 at Wichita Northwest

Wichita Southeast (3-6) Sep 06 Dodge City Sep 13 Kapaun (South) Sep 20 at Wichita West (NW) Sep 27 at Wichita Northwest (TH) Oct 04 Wichita North (at NW) Oct 11 Wichita South (South) Oct 18 at Derby Oct 25 Wichita Heights (TH) Nov 01 at Wichita East (South)

Wichita-Haysville Campus (1-8) Sep 06 at Andover Sep 13 Hutchinson Sep 20 at Newton Sep 27 Salina South Oct 04 Derby Oct 11 at Maize Oct 18 at Wichita Northwest Oct 25 Wichita South Nov 01 at Wichita North (WH)

Andover Central (4-6) Sep 06 at Valley Center Sep 13 Derby Sep 20 at Goddard Sep 27 Maize South Oct 04 at Andover Oct 11 Salina Central Oct 18 at Arkansas City Oct 25 at Wichita West (at NW) Nov 01 Kapaun Mt. Carmel

Arkansas City (6-4) Sep 06 at Maize South Sep 13 Andover Sep 20 KC Center (Mo.) Sep 27 at Goddard Eisenhower Oct 04 Valley Center Oct 11 at Augusta Oct 18 Andover Central Oct 25 Kapaun Mt. Carmel (TH) Nov 01 at Wichita West (TH at NW)

Emporia (9-2) Sep 06 Shawnee Heights Sep 13 at Manhattan Sep 20 Topeka Highland Park Sep 27 at Topeka Seaman Oct 04 Topeka Hayden Oct 11 at Topeka High Oct 18 Newton Oct 25 at Andover Nov 01 at Valley Center

Goddard (4-6) Sep 06 Wellington Sep 13 at Valley Center Sep 20 Andover Central Sep 27 at Maize Oct 04 Maize South Oct 11 Andover Oct 18 at Liberal Oct 25 at Bishop Carroll Nov 01 Goddard-Eisenhower

Goddard-Eisenhower (1-8) Sep 06 at Clearwater Sep 13 Maize South Sep 20 at Andover Sep 27 Arkansas City Oct 04 at Newton Oct 11 at Valley Center Oct 18 Bishop Carroll Oct 25 Liberal Nov 01 at Goddard

Great Bend (5-4) Sep 06 Hoisington Sep 13 Ulysses Sep 20 at Garden City Sep 27 at Wichita North (at WH) Oct 04 Dodge City Oct 11 Liberal Oct 18 at Hays Oct 25 Salina Central Nov 01 at Salina South

Hays (7-3) Sep 06 Junction City Sep 13 McPherson Sep 20 at Liberal Sep 27 Garden City Oct 04 at Wichita South Oct 11 at Dodge City Oct 18 Great Bend Oct 25 at Salina South Nov 01 Salina Central

KC-FL Schlagle (5-4) Sep 06 Topeka West Sep 13 at Shawnee Heights Sep 20 at KC Harmon Sep 27 at KC Sumner Academy Oct 04 KC Wyandotte Oct 11 Atchison Oct 18 at Mill Valley Oct 25 at Lansing Nov 01 KC Washington

KC-JC Harmon (0-9) Sep 06 at Hogan Prep (Mo.) (Sat) Sep 13 KC Wyandotte Sep 20 KC Schlagle Sep 27 at KC Washington Oct 04 at Atchison Oct 11 KC Sumner Academy Oct 18 St. Thomas Aquinas Oct 25 at Bishop Miege Nov 01 at KC Turner

KC-Turner (5-4) Sep 06 at Bonner Springs Sep 13 Mill Valley Sep 20 at Lansing Sep 27 Bishop Ward Oct 04 Basehor-Linwood Oct 11 at Tonganoxie Oct 18 Bishop Miege Oct 25 at St. Thomas Aquinas Nov 01 KC Harmon

KC-Washington (3-6) Sep 06 at Blue Valley SW Sep 13 at Topeka West Sep 20 Atchison Sep 27 KC Harmon Oct 04 at KC Sumner Academy Oct 11 at KC Wyandotte Oct 18 Lansing Oct 25 Mill Valley Nov 01 at KC Schlagle

Lansing (3-7) Sep 06 at Tonganoxie Sep 13 at Bonner Springs Sep 20 KC Turner Sep 27 at Basehor-Linwood Oct 04 at KC Piper Oct 11 Bishop Ward Oct 18 at KC Washington Oct 25 KC Schlagle Nov 01 Mill Valley

Liberal (2-7) Sep 06 at Ulysses Sep 13 Guymon (Okla.)

Sep 20 Hays Sep 27 at Dodge City Oct 04 Garden City Oct 11 at Great Bend Oct 18 Goddard Oct 25 at Goddard-Eisenhower Nov 01 Bishop Carroll

Newton (3-6) Sep 06 at Maize Sep 13 at Salina Central Sep 20 Haysville Campus Sep 27 at Hutchinson Oct 04 Goddard-Eisenhower Oct 11 at Salina South Oct 18 at Emporia Oct 25 Valley Center Nov 01 Andover

OP-Blue Valley SW (5-4) Sep 06 KC Washington Sep 13 at Blue Valley North (TH) Sep 20 Gardner-Edgerton Sep 27 St. Thomas Aquinas Oct 04 at Bishop Miege Oct 11 at Blue Valley NW Oct 18 Blue Valley Oct 25 Blue Valley West Nov 01 at Pittsburg

OP-Blue Valley West (8-3) Sep 06 at Washburn Rural Sep 13 at St. Thomas Aquinas Sep 20 Blue Valley North Sep 27 Blue Valley NW (TH) Oct 04 Gardner-Edgerton Oct 11 at Bishop Miege Oct 18 Pittsburg Oct 25 at Blue Valley SW (TH) Nov 01 at Blue Valley

OP-St. Thomas Aquinas (10-2) Sep 06 at Blue Valley NW Sep 13 Blue Valley West Sep 20 Salina Central Sep 27 at Blue Valley SW Oct 04 at Blue Valley North Oct 11 Blue Valley Oct 18 at KC Harmon Oct 25 KC Turner Nov 01 Bishop Miege

Pittsburg (5-4) Sep 06 at Labette County Sep 13 Independence Sep 20 at Fort Scott Sep 27 Chanute Oct 04 at Parsons Oct 11 Coffeyville Oct 18 at Blue Valley West Oct 25 Blue Valley Nov 01 Blue Valley SW

Salina Central (3-6) Sep 06 at Hutchinson Sep 13 Newton Sep 20 at St. Thomas Aquinas Sep 27 Derby Oct 04 Maize (TH) Oct 11 at Andover Central Oct 18 Salina South Oct 25 at Great Bend Nov 01 at Hays

Salina South (10-2) Sep 06 at Derby Sep 13 at Maize Sep 20 Blue Valley Sep 27 at Haysville Campus Oct 04 Hutchinson Oct 11 Newton Oct 18 at Salina Central Oct 25 Hays Nov 01 Great Bend

Shawnee-Mill Valley (8-2) Sep 06 Manhattan Sep 13 at KC Turner Sep 20 at Basehor-Linwood Sep 27 Tonganoxie Oct 04 Bonner Springs Oct 11 at KC Piper Oct 18 KC Schlagle Oct 25 at KC Washington Nov 01 at Lansing

SM-Bishop Miege (7-6) Sep 06 Blue Valley North Sep 13 at Blue Valley (TH) Sep 20 at Blue Valley NW (TH) Sep 27 at Gardner-Edgerton Oct 04 Blue Valley SW Oct 11 Blue Valley West Oct 18 at KC Turner Oct 25 KC Harmon Nov 01 at St. Thomas Aquinas

Stillwell-Blue Valley (6-5) Sep 06 Gardner-Edgerton Sep 13 Bishop Miege (TH) Sep 20 at Salina South Sep 27 at Blue Valley North Oct 04 Blue Valley NW Oct 11 at St. Thomas Aquinas Oct 18 at Blue Valley SW Oct 25 at Pittsburg Nov 01 Blue Valley West

Tecumseh-Shawnee Heights (5-5) Sep 06 at Emporia Sep 13 KC Schlagle Sep 20 at Junction City Sep 27 Topeka High Oct 04 at Washburn Rural Oct 11 Manhattan Oct 18 at Topeka Highland Park Oct 25 Topeka West Nov 01 at Topeka Seaman

Topeka West (1-8) Sep 06 at KC Schlagle Sep 13 KC Washington Sep 20 at Topeka High Sep 27 Washburn Rural Oct 04 at Manhattan Oct 11 Junction City (TH) Oct 18 Topeka Seaman Oct 25 at Shawnee Heights Nov 01 Topeka Highland Park

Topeka-Highland Park (1-8) Sep 06 at Topeka High Sep 13 Washburn Rural Sep 20 at Emporia Sep 27 Manhattan Oct 04 at Junction City Oct 11 at Topeka Hayden Oct 18 Shawnee Heights Oct 25 Topeka Seaman Nov 01 at Topeka West

Topeka-Seaman (5-5) Sep 06 Topeka Hayden Sep 13 at Junction City Sep 20 Manhattan Sep 27 Emporia Oct 04 at Topeka High Oct 11 Washburn Rural Oct 18 at Topeka West Oct 25 at Topeka Highland Park Nov 01 Shawnee Heights

Valley Center (2-7) Sep 06 Andover Central Sep 13 Goddard Sep 20 at Maize South Sep 27 Sunrise Christian Academy Oct 04 at Arkansas City Oct 11 Goddard-Eisenhower Oct 18 at Andover Oct 25 at Newton Nov 01 Emporia

Wichita West (3-6) Sep 06 at Wichita South Sep 13 Wichita East (at NW) Sep 20 Wichita Southeast (at NW) Sep 27 at Bishop Carroll Oct 04 at Wichita Heights Oct 11 Wichita North (TH at NW) Oct 18 at Kapaun Oct 25 Andover Central (at NW) Nov 01 Arkansas City (TH at NW)

Wichita-Bishop Carroll (13-0) Sep 06 Wichita Heights Sep 13 at Wichita North (TH at WH) Sep 20 at Wichita South (TH) Sep 27 Wichita West Oct 04 Wichita Northwest Oct 11 at Kapaun (Cessna) Oct 18 at Goddard-Eisenhower Oct 25 Goddard Nov 01 at Liberal

Abilene (2-8) Sep 06 at Scott City Sep 13 Rossville Sep 20 Clay Center Sep 27 at Concordia Oct 04 Wamego Oct 11 at Marysville Oct 18 at Chapman Oct 25 McPherson Oct 31 at Smoky Valley

Altamont-Labette Co. (3-6) Sep 06 Pittsburg Sep 13 Chanute Sep 20 at Independence Sep 27 Parsons Oct 04 at Prairie View Oct 11 Fort Scott Oct 18 at Coffeyville Oct 25 Baxter Springs Oct 31 at Columbus

Andale (9-2) Sep 06 at Wichita Collegiate Sep 13 at Rose Hill Sep 20 Clearwater Sep 27 at Towanda-Circle Oct 04 Augusta Oct 11 Wellington Oct 18 at Buhler Oct 25 Nickerson Oct 31 Cheney

Atchison (6-4) Sep 06 Pleasant Ridge Sep 13 Tonganoxie Sep 20 at KC Washington Sep 27 KC Wyandotte Oct 04 KC Harmon Oct 11 at KC Schlagle Oct 18 KC Piper Oct 25 at Bishop Ward Oct 31 at KC Sumner Academy

Basehor-Linwood (4-5) Sep 06 at Bishop Ward Sep 13 at KC Piper Sep 20 Mill Valley Sep 27 Lansing Oct 04 at KC Turner Oct 11 Bonner Springs Oct 18 Jefferson West Oct 25 at Perry-Lecompton Oct 31 at Tonganoxie

Baxter Springs (0-9) Sep 06 Galena Sep 13 at St. Mary’s Colgan (TH) Sep 20 at Southeast-Cherokee Sep 27 Erie Oct 04 at Riverton Oct 11 Frontenac Oct 18 Columbus Oct 25 at Labette County Oct 31 at Coffeyville

Bonner Springs (3-6) Sep 06 KC Turner Sep 13 Lansing Sep 20 at Bishop Ward Sep 27 KC Piper Oct 04 at Mill Valley Oct 11 at Basehor-Linwood Oct 18 De Soto Oct 25 at St. James Academy (TH) Oct 31 at Spring Hill

Buhler (8-4) Sep 06 at Rose Hill Sep 13 Wichita Collegiate Sep 20 at Mulvane Sep 27 McPherson Oct 04 at El Dorado Oct 11 Winfield Oct 18 Andale Oct 25 at Cheney Oct 31 at Nickerson

6A SCHEDULES (continued from previous page)

Wichita-Kapaun Mt. Carmel (3-6) Sep 06 at Wichita Northwest (TH) Sep 13 at Wichita SE (South) Sep 20 Wichita North (Cessna) Sep 27 Wichita Heights (Cessna) Oct 04 at Wichita East (TH-South) Oct 11 Bishop Carroll (Cessna) Oct 18 Wichita West Oct 25 at Arkansas City (TH) Nov 01 at Andover Central Augusta (1-8) Sep 06 at Towanda-Circle Sep 13 Mulvane Sep 20 Wellington Sep 27 at Clearwater Oct 04 at Andale Oct 11 Arkansas City Oct 18 Rose Hill Oct 25 at Wichita Trinity Oct 31 Wichita Collegiate

4A SCHEDULES Baldwin (7-4) Sep 06 at Wellsville Sep 13 Paola Sep 20 St. James Academy Sep 27 at Spring Hill Oct 04 De Soto Oct 11 Louisburg Oct 18 at Ottawa Oct 25 at Santa Fe Trail Oct 31 Eudora

5A SCHEDULES

Andover (8-3) Sep 06 Haysville Campus Sep 13 at Arkansas City Sep 20 Goddard-Eisenhower Sep 27 at Independence Oct 04 Andover Central Oct 11 at Goddard Oct 18 Valley Center Oct 25 Emporia Nov 01 at Newton

Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

Page 85

Carbondale-Santa Fe Trail (0-9) Sep 06 at Royal Valley Sep 13 Holton Sep 20 at Perry-Lecompton Sep 27 Jefferson West Oct 04 at Sabetha Oct 11 Hiawatha Oct 18 at Eudora Oct 25 Baldwin Oct 31 Ottawa

Chanute (7-5) Sep 06 Mulvane Sep 13 at Labette County Sep 20 Parsons Sep 27 at Pittsburg Oct 04 at Coffeyville Oct 11 at Independence Oct 18 Iola Oct 25 at Anderson County Oct 31 Fort Scott

Chapman (4-5) Sep 06 at Rossville Sep 13 Southeast of Saline Sep 20 Marysville Sep 27 at Wamego Oct 04 at Clay Center Oct 11 Concordia Oct 18 Abilene Oct 25 at Smoky Valley Oct 31 at McPherson

Cheney (4-5) Sep 06 Belle Plaine Sep 13 at Wichita Independent Sep 20 at Wichita Trinity Sep 27 Conway Springs Oct 04 at Garden Plain Oct 11 at Chaparral Oct 18 Nickerson Oct 25 Buhler Oct 31 at Andale

Clay Center (6-4) Sep 06 at Riley County Sep 13 Thomas More Prep Sep 20 at Abilene Sep 27 Marysville Oct 04 Chapman Oct 11 at Wamego Oct 18 Goodland Oct 25 at Colby Oct 31 at Concordia

Clearwater (4-5) Sep 06 Goddard-Eisenhower Sep 13 El Dorado Sep 20 at Andale Sep 27 Augusta Oct 04 at Wichita Collegiate Oct 11 at Towanda-Circle Oct 18 Wellington Oct 25 at Winfield Oct 31 at Mulvane

Coffeyville-Field Kindley (8-3) Sep 06 at Independence Sep 13 Parsons Sep 20 at Iola Sep 27 Fort Scott Oct 04 Chanute Oct 11 at Pittsburg Oct 18 Labette County Oct 25 at Columbus Oct 31 Baxter Springs

Colby (2-7) Sep 06 Oakley Sep 13 at Scott City Sep 20 Ulysses Sep 27 at Hugoton Oct 04 at Holcomb Oct 11 Norton Oct 18 at Concordia Oct 25 Clay Center Oct 31 Goodland

Columbus (4-6) Sep 06 at Southeast-Cherokee (TH) Sep 13 at Fort Scott Sep 20 Girard Sep 27 Riverton Oct 04 at Galena Oct 11 St. Mary’s Colgan Oct 18 at Baxter Springs Oct 25 Coffeyville Oct 31 Labette County

Concordia (8-3) Sep 06 at Beloit Sep 13 at Wellington Sep 20 Wamego Sep 27 Abilene Oct 04 at Marysville Oct 11 at Chapman Oct 18 Colby Oct 25 at Goodland Oct 31 Clay Center

De Soto (4-6) Sep 06 Holton Sep 13 at Ottawa Sep 20 Eudora Sep 27 at Louisburg Oct 04 at Baldwin Oct 11 Paola Oct 18 at Bonner Springs Oct 25 Spring Hill Oct 31 St. James Academy

El Dorado (1-8) Sep 06 McPherson Sep 13 at Clearwater Sep 20 Winfield Sep 27 at Mulvane Oct 04 Buhler Oct 11 at Rose Hill Oct 18 at Maize South Oct 25 Towanda-Circle Oct 31 Hesston

Eudora (12-2) Sep 06 at KC Piper Sep 13 Louisburg Sep 20 at De Soto Sep 27 Paola Oct 04 Spring Hill Oct 11 at St. James Academy (TH) Oct 18 Santa Fe Trail Oct 25 Ottawa Oct 31 at Baldwin

Fort Scott (9-1) Sep 06 at Parsons Sep 13 Columbus Sep 20 Pittsburg Sep 27 at Coffeyville Oct 04 Independence Oct 11 at Labette County Oct 18 at Anderson County Oct 25 Iola Oct 31 at Chanute

Frontenac (5-5) Sep 06 Riverton Sep 13 Southeast-Cherokee Sep 20 at Galena Sep 27 St. Mary’s Colgan Oct 04 at Erie Oct 11 at Baxter Springs Oct 18 at Parsons Oct 25 Independence Oct 31 at Girard

Garnett-Anderson Co. (3-6) Sep 06 Burlington Sep 13 at Prairie View Sep 20 St. Mary’s Colgan Sep 27 at Central Heights Oct 04 at Wellsville Oct 11 Osawatomie Oct 18 Fort Scott Oct 25 Chanute Oct 31 at Iola

Girard (9-2) Sep 06 at Caney Valley Sep 13 at Riverton Sep 20 at Columbus Sep 27 Southeast-Cherokee Oct 04 at St. Mary’s Colgan Oct 11 Galena Oct 18 at Independence Oct 25 Parsons Oct 31 Frontenac

Goodland (3-6) Sep 06 Hugoton Sep 13 at Norton Sep 20 Wray (Colo.)

Sep 27 Holcomb Oct 04 at Ulysses Oct 11 at Scott City Oct 18 at Clay Center Oct 25 Concordia Oct 31 at Colby

Hesston (5-5) Sep 06 Halstead Sep 13 Nickerson Sep 20 at Haven Sep 27 at Hillsboro Oct 04 Kingman Oct 11 Pratt Oct 18 at Towanda-Circle Oct 25 Maize South Oct 31 at El Dorado

Holton (14-0) Sep 06 at De Soto Sep 13 at Santa Fe Trail Sep 20 Sabetha Sep 27 Hiawatha Oct 04 at Perry-Lecompton Oct 11 at Jefferson West Oct 18 Wamego Oct 25 at Topeka Hayden Oct 31 Royal Valley

Hoyt-Royal Valley (3-6) Sep 06 Santa Fe Trail Sep 13 at Nemaha Valley Sep 20 at Hiawatha Sep 27 Sabetha Oct 04 Jefferson West Oct 11 at Perry-Lecompton Oct 18 Topeka Hayden Oct 25 Wamego Oct 31 at Holton

Hugoton (4-6) Sep 06 at Goodland Sep 13 Holcomb Sep 20 at Guymon (Okla.)

Sep 27 Colby Oct 04 at Scott City Oct 11 Southwestern Heights Oct 18 at Pratt Oct 25 at Larned Oct 31 Ulysses

Independence (1-8) Sep 06 Coffeyville Sep 13 at Pittsburg Sep 20 Labette County Sep 27 Andover Oct 04 at Fort Scott Oct 11 Chanute Oct 18 Girard Oct 25 at Frontenac Oct 31 at Parsons

Iola (6-3) Sep 06 at Cherryvale Sep 13 Osawatomie Sep 20 Coffeyville Sep 27 at Prairie View Oct 04 Central Heights Oct 11 Wellsville Oct 18 at Chanute Oct 25 at Fort Scott Oct 31 Anderson County

KC-Bishop Ward (0-9) Sep 06 Basehor-Linwood Sep 13 St. James Academy Sep 20 Bonner Springs Sep 27 at KC Turner Oct 04 Tonganoxie Oct 11 at Lansing Oct 18 at KC Sumner Academy Oct 25 Atchison Oct 31 KC Piper

KC-Piper (10-3) Sep 06 Eudora Sep 13 Basehor-Linwood Sep 20 at Tonganoxie Sep 27 at Bonner Springs Oct 04 Lansing Oct 11 Mill Valley Oct 18 at Atchison Oct 25 KC Sumner Academy Oct 31 at Bishop Ward

KC-Sumner Academy (2-7) Sep 06 Leavenworth-Immaculata Sep 13 at Spring Hill Sep 20 at KC Wyandotte Sep 27 KC Schlagle Oct 04 KC Washington Oct 11 at KC Harmon Oct 18 Bishop Ward Oct 25 at KC Piper Oct 31 Atchison

LaCygne-Prairie View (5-4) Sep 06 at Ottawa Sep 13 Anderson County Sep 20 at Wellsville Sep 27 Iola Oct 04 Labette County Oct 11 at Central Heights Oct 18 Louisburg Oct 25 at Paola Oct 31 at Osawatomie

Larned/Rozel Pawnee Hts. (3-6) Sep 06 at Ellsworth Sep 13 Ellinwood Sep 20 at Thomas More Prep Sep 27 Ellis Oct 04 at Cimarron Oct 11 at Hoisington Oct 18 Ulysses Oct 25 Hugoton Oct 31 at Pratt

Lenexa-St. James Acad. (7-2) Sep 06 Paola Sep 13 at Bishop Ward Sep 20 at Baldwin Sep 27 at Ottawa Oct 04 Louisburg Oct 11 Eudora (TH) Oct 18 at Spring Hill (TH) Oct 25 Bonner Springs (TH) Oct 31 at De Soto

Lindsborg-Smoky Valley (5-4) Sep 06 Sterling Sep 13 at Kingman Sep 20 at Halstead Sep 27 Haven Oct 04 Hillsboro Oct 11 at Lyons Oct 18 at McPherson Oct 25 Chapman Oct 31 Abilene

Louisburg (7-5) Sep 06 Spring Hill Sep 13 at Eudora Sep 20 Ottawa Sep 27 De Soto Oct 04 at St. James Academy Oct 11 at Baldwin Oct 18 at Prairie View Oct 25 Osawatomie Oct 31 Paola

Maize South (9-2) Sep 06 Arkansas City Sep 13 at Goddard-Eisenhower Sep 20 Valley Center Sep 27 at Andover Central Oct 04 at Goddard Oct 11 Wichita Collegiate Oct 18 El Dorado Oct 25 at Hesston Oct 31 Towanda-Circle

McPherson (10-2) Sep 06 at El Dorado Sep 13 at Hays Sep 20 Rose Hill Sep 27 at Buhler Oct 04 at Winfield Oct 11 Mulvane Oct 18 Smoky Valley Oct 25 at Abilene Oct 31 Chapman

Meriden-Jeff West (5-5) Sep 06 at Sabetha Sep 13 Hiawatha Sep 20 Nemaha Valley Sep 27 at Santa Fe Trail Oct 04 at Royal Valley Oct 11 Holton Oct 18 at Basehor-Linwood Oct 25 Tonganoxie Oct 31 at Perry-Lecompton

Mulvane (11-2) Sep 06 at Chanute Sep 13 at Augusta Sep 20 Buhler Sep 27 El Dorado Oct 04 at Rose Hill Oct 11 at McPherson Oct 18 Winfield Oct 25 at Wellington Oct 31 Clearwater

Nickerson (6-3) Sep 06 at Pratt Sep 13 at Hesston Sep 20 Hillsboro Sep 27 at Kingman Oct 04 Lyons Oct 11 Haven Oct 18 at Cheney Oct 25 at Andale Oct 31 Buhler

Osawatomie (0-9) Sep 06 at Neodesha Sep 13 at Iola Sep 20 Central Heights Sep 27 Wellsville Oct 04 Burlington Oct 11 at Anderson County Oct 18 at Paola Oct 25 at Louisburg Oct 31 Prairie View

Ottawa (3-6) Sep 06 Prairie View Sep 13 De Soto Sep 20 at Louisburg Sep 27 St. James Academy Oct 04 at Paola Oct 11 Spring Hill Oct 18 Baldwin Oct 25 at Eudora Oct 31 at Santa Fe Trail

Paola (5-5) Sep 06 at St. James Academy Sep 13 at Baldwin Sep 20 Spring Hill Sep 27 at Eudora Oct 04 Ottawa Oct 11 at De Soto Oct 18 Osawatomie Oct 25 Prairie View Oct 31 at Louisburg

Parsons (0-9) Sep 06 Fort Scott Sep 13 at Coffeyville Sep 20 at Chanute Sep 27 at Labette County Oct 04 Pittsburg Oct 11 Riverton Oct 18 Frontenac Oct 25 at Girard Oct 31 Independence

Perry-Lecompton (3-6) Sep 06 at Hiawatha Sep 13 at Sabetha Sep 20 Santa Fe Trail Sep 27 at Nemaha Valley Oct 04 Holton Oct 11 Royal Valley Oct 18 at Tonganoxie Oct 25 Basehor-Linwood Oct 31 Jefferson West

Pratt (4-5) Sep 06 Nickerson Sep 13 at Haven Sep 20 Kingman Sep 27 at Lyons Oct 04 Halstead Oct 11 at Hesston Oct 18 Hugoton Oct 25 at Ulysses Oct 31 Larned

Rose Hill (4-6) Sep 06 Buhler Sep 13 Andale Sep 20 at McPherson Sep 27 at Winfield Oct 04 Mulvane Oct 11 El Dorado Oct 18 at Augusta Oct 25 Wichita Collegiate Oct 31 at Wichita Trinity

Spring Hill (5-5) Sep 06 at Louisburg Sep 13 KC Sumner Academy Sep 20 at Paola Sep 27 Baldwin Oct 04 at Eudora Oct 11 at Ottawa Oct 18 St. James Academy (TH) Oct 25 at De Soto Oct 31 Bonner Springs

Tonganoxie (5-6) Sep 06 Lansing Sep 13 at Atchison Sep 20 KC Piper Sep 27 at Mill Valley Oct 04 at Bishop Ward Oct 11 KC Turner Oct 18 Perry-Lecompton Oct 25 at Jefferson West Oct 31 Basehor-Linwood

Topeka-Hayden (4-6) Sep 06 at Topeka Seaman Sep 13 Topeka High Sep 20 at Washburn Rural Sep 27 Junction City Oct 04 at Emporia Oct 11 Topeka Highland Park Oct 18 at Royal Valley Oct 25 Holton Oct 31 at Wamego

Towanda-Circle (1-8) Sep 06 Augusta Sep 13 at Winfield Sep 20 at Wichita Collegiate Sep 27 Andale Oct 04 at Wellington Oct 11 Clearwater Oct 18 Hesston Oct 25 at El Dorado Oct 31 at Maize South

Ulysses (6-4) Sep 06 Liberal Sep 13 at Great Bend Sep 20 at Colby Sep 27 Scott City Oct 04 Goodland Oct 11 at Holcomb Oct 18 at Larned Oct 25 Pratt Oct 31 at Hugoton

Wamego (5-4) Sep 06 Rock Creek Sep 13 at Marysville Sep 20 at Concordia Sep 27 Chapman Oct 04 at Abilene Oct 11 Clay Center Oct 18 at Holton Oct 25 at Royal Valley Oct 31 Topeka Hayden

Wellington (2-7) Sep 06 at Goddard Sep 13 Concordia Sep 20 at Augusta Sep 27 Wichita Collegiate Oct 04 Towanda-Circle Oct 11 at Andale Oct 18 at Clearwater Oct 25 Mulvane Oct 31 at Winfield

Wichita-Collegiate (9-2) Sep 06 Andale Sep 13 at Buhler Sep 20 Towanda-Circle Sep 27 at Wellington Oct 04 Clearwater Oct 11 at Maize South Oct 18 Wichita Trinity Oct 25 at Rose Hill Oct 31 at Augusta

Wichita-Trinity Academy (4-5) Sep 06 Chaparral Sep 13 Belle Plaine Sep 20 Cheney Sep 27 at Garden Plain Oct 04 Conway Springs Oct 11 at Douglass Oct 18 at Wichita Collegiate Oct 25 Augusta Oct 31 Rose Hill

Winfield (4-6) Sep 06 at Marysville Sep 13 Towanda-Circle Sep 20 at El Dorado Sep 27 Rose Hill Oct 04 McPherson Oct 11 at Buhler Oct 18 at Mulvane Oct 25 Clearwater Oct 31 Wellington

Anthony/Harper-Chaparral (4-6) Sep 06 at Wichita Trinity Sep 13 at Garden Plain Sep 20 Leon-Bluestem Sep 27 at Medicine Lodge Oct 04 Wichita Independent Oct 11 Cheney Oct 18 at Douglass Oct 25 at Conway Springs Oct 31 at Belle Plaine

Atchison-Maur Hill-Mt Aca. (4-5) Sep 06 Oskaloosa Sep 13 at Troy Sep 20 at Riverside Sep 27 Jackson Heights Oct 04 at Doniphan West Oct 11 Horton Oct 18 Atchison County Oct 25 Pleasant Ridge Oct 31 at Silver Lake

Belle Plaine (2-7) Sep 06 at Cheney Sep 13 at Wichita Trinity Sep 20 Garden Plain Sep 27 Leon-Bluestem Oct 04 at Haven Oct 11 at Wichita Independent Oct 18 Conway Springs Oct 25 at Douglass Oct 31 Chaparral

Beloit (12-1) Sep 06 Concordia Sep 13 at Smith Center Sep 20 at Russell Sep 27 Sacred Heart Oct 04 at Ellsworth Oct 11 Southeast of Saline Oct 18 at Phillipsburg Oct 25 Norton Oct 31 Minneapolis

Burlington (4-6) Sep 06 at Anderson County Sep 13 Central Heights Sep 20 at Caney Valley Sep 27 at Cherryvale Oct 04 at Osawatomie Oct 11 Neodesha Oct 18 Fredonia Oct 25 Eureka Oct 31 at Humboldt

Cherokee-Southeast (6-3) Sep 06 Columbus (TH) Sep 13 at Frontenac Sep 20 Baxter Springs Sep 27 at Girard Oct 04 Oswego Oct 11 Erie Oct 18 at Riverton Oct 25 Galena Oct 31 at St. Mary’s Colgan

Cherryvale (3-6) Sep 06 Iola Sep 13 at Commerce (Okla.)

Sep 20 at Fredonia Sep 27 Burlington Oct 04 at Humboldt Oct 11 Eureka Oct 18 Caney Valley Oct 25 at Erie Oct 31 at Neodesha

Cimarron (7-3) Sep 06 at Leoti-Wichita Co. Sep 13 Syracuse Sep 20 Sublette Sep 27 at Meade Oct 04 Larned Oct 11 at Elkhart Oct 18 Lakin Oct 25 at Southwestern Heights Oct 31 Holcomb

Conway Springs (9-2) Sep 06 at Leon-Bluestem Sep 13 Caney Valley Sep 20 Wichita Independent Sep 27 at Cheney Oct 04 at Wichita Trinity Oct 11 Garden Plain Oct 18 at Belle Plaine Oct 25 Chaparral Oct 31 Douglass

Council Grove (3-6) Sep 06 at Herington Sep 13 Northern Heights Sep 20 at Chase County Sep 27 Lyndon Oct 04 at Osage City Oct 11 West Franklin Oct 18 at St. Marys Oct 25 Rossville Oct 31 at Mission Valley

3A SCHEDULES Caney Valley (10-2) Sep 06 Girard Sep 13 at Conway Springs Sep 20 Burlington Sep 27 at Fredonia Oct 04 Eureka Oct 11 at Humboldt Oct 18 at Cherryvale Oct 25 Neodesha Oct 31 at Erie

Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

Page 86

Douglass (3-6) Sep 06 Garden Plain Sep 13 at Sunrise Christian Aca. Sep 20 Medicine Lodge Sep 27 at Wichita Independent Oct 04 at Leon-Bluestem Oct 11 Wichita Trinity Oct 18 Chaparral Oct 25 Belle Plaine Oct 31 at Conway Springs

Easton-Pleasant Ridge (4-6) Sep 06 at Atchison Sep 13 Jefferson Co. North Sep 20 at Oskaloosa Sep 27 at Immaculata Oct 04 McLouth Oct 11 at Valley Falls Oct 18 Silver Lake Oct 25 at Maur Hill Oct 31 Atchison County

Effingham-Atchison Co. (5-4) Sep 06 Troy Sep 13 at Horton Sep 20 Doniphan West Sep 27 at Valley Falls Oct 04 at Riverside Oct 11 Centralia Oct 18 at Maur Hill Oct 25 Silver Lake Oct 31 at Pleasant Ridge

Ellsworth (5-5) Sep 06 Larned Sep 13 Russell Sep 20 at Republic County Sep 27 Thomas More Prep Oct 04 Beloit Oct 11 at Minneapolis Oct 18 at Lyons Oct 25 at Sacred Heart Oct 31 Southeast of Saline

Erie (1-8) Sep 06 at St. Mary’s Colgan (TH) Sep 13 at Galena Sep 20 Riverton Sep 27 at Baxter Springs Oct 04 Frontenac Oct 11 at Southeast-Cherokee Oct 18 at Neodesha Oct 25 Cherryvale Oct 31 Caney Valley

Eskridge-Mission Valley (5-4) Sep 06 at Lyndon Sep 13 Herington Sep 20 at Northern Heights Sep 27 Chase County Oct 04 at West Franklin Oct 11 Osage City Oct 18 at Rossville Oct 25 St. Marys Oct 31 Council Grove

Eureka (1-8) Sep 06 Haven Sep 13 Oswego Sep 20 at Northeast-Arma Sep 27 at Neodesha Oct 04 at Caney Valley Oct 11 at Cherryvale Oct 18 Humboldt Oct 25 at Burlington Oct 31 Fredonia

Fredonia (0-9) Sep 06 at Oswego Sep 13 Northeast-Arma Sep 20 Cherryvale Sep 27 Caney Valley Oct 04 at Neodesha Oct 11 Sunrise Christian Academy Oct 18 at Burlington Oct 25 Humboldt Oct 31 at Eureka

Galena (6-4) Sep 06 at Baxter Springs Sep 13 Erie Sep 20 Frontenac Sep 27 at Northeast-Arma Oct 04 Columbus Oct 11 at Girard Oct 18 at St. Mary’s Colgan Oct 25 at Southeast-Cherokee Oct 31 Riverton

Garden Plain (11-1) Sep 06 at Douglass Sep 13 Chaparral Sep 20 at Belle Plaine Sep 27 Wichita Trinity Oct 04 Cheney Oct 11 at Conway Springs Oct 18 Haven Oct 25 at Hutchinson Trinity Oct 31 Kingman

Gypsum-SE of Saline (4-5) Sep 06 at Republic County Sep 13 at Chapman Sep 20 Whitewater-Remington Sep 27 at Minneapolis Oct 04 Russell Oct 11 at Beloit Oct 18 Sacred Heart Oct 25 Lyons Oct 31 at Ellsworth

Halstead (5-4) Sep 06 at Hesston Sep 13 Lyons Sep 20 Smoky Valley Sep 27 at Sterling Oct 04 at Pratt Oct 11 Kingman Oct 18 Marion Oct 25 at Moundridge Oct 31 at Hillsboro

Haven (5-5) Sep 06 at Eureka Sep 13 Pratt Sep 20 Hesston Sep 27 at Smoky Valley Oct 04 Belle Plaine Oct 11 at Nickerson Oct 18 at Garden Plain Oct 25 Kingman Oct 31 at Hutchinson Trinity

Hays-TMP-Marian (2-7) Sep 06 at Ellinwood Sep 13 at Clay Center Sep 20 Larned Sep 27 at Ellsworth Oct 04 La Crosse Oct 11 Phillipsburg Oct 18 at Russell Oct 25 Scott City Oct 31 at Hoisington

Hiawatha (8-3) Sep 06 Perry-Lecompton Sep 13 at Jefferson West Sep 20 Royal Valley Sep 27 at Holton Oct 04 Nemaha Valley Oct 11 at Santa Fe Trail Oct 18 at Horton Oct 25 Riverside Oct 31 Sabetha

Hillsboro (10-1) Sep 06 Lyons Sep 13 at Sterling Sep 20 at Nickerson Sep 27 Hesston Oct 04 at Smoky Valley Oct 11 at Whitewater-Remington Oct 18 Moundridge Oct 25 at Marion Oct 31 Halstead

Hoisington (5-5) Sep 06 at Great Bend Sep 13 La Crosse Sep 20 Wichita Sunrise Academy Sep 27 at Ellinwood Oct 04 at Phillipsburg Oct 11 Larned Oct 18 Scott City Oct 25 at Russell Oct 31 Thomas More Prep

Holcomb (9-2) Sep 06 at Meade Sep 13 at Hugoton Sep 20 Scott City Sep 27 at Goodland Oct 04 Colby Oct 11 Ulysses Oct 18 Southwestern Heights Oct 25 at Lakin Oct 31 at Cimarron

Horton (2-6) Sep 06 at Jackson Heights Sep 13 Atchison County Sep 20 Troy Sep 27 at Doniphan West Oct 04 OPEN Oct 11 at Maur Hill Oct 18 Hiawatha Oct 25 at Sabetha Oct 31 Riverside

Humboldt (8-3) Sep 06 at Northeast-Arma Sep 13 at Jayhawk-Linn Sep 20 Neodesha Sep 27 at Oswego Oct 04 Cherryvale Oct 11 Caney Valley Oct 18 at Eureka Oct 25 at Fredonia Oct 31 Burlington

Hutch-Trinity Catholic (5-4) Sep 06 Sacred Heart Sep 13 Moundridge Sep 20 at Inman Sep 27 Whitewater-Remington Oct 04 at Sedgwick Oct 11 at Marion Oct 18 at Kingman Oct 25 Garden Plain Oct 31 Haven

Kingman (2-7) Sep 06 Sunrise Christian Academy Sep 13 Smoky Valley Sep 20 at Pratt Sep 27 Nickerson Oct 04 at Hesston Oct 11 at Halstead Oct 18 Hutchinson Trinity Oct 25 at Haven Oct 31 at Garden Plain

Kismet-SW Heights (1-8) Sep 06 Sublette Sep 13 at Elkhart Sep 20 Meade Sep 27 Stanton County Oct 04 at Syracuse Oct 11 at Hugoton Oct 18 at Holcomb Oct 25 Cimarron Oct 31 Lakin

Lakin (5-4) Sep 06 at Syracuse Sep 13 Meade Sep 20 Elkhart Sep 27 at Sublette Oct 04 Stratford (Tex.) Oct 11 at Ellinwood Oct 18 at Cimarron Oct 25 Holcomb Oct 31 at Southwestern Heights

Leon-Bluestem (1-8) Sep 06 Conway Springs Sep 13 at Medicine Lodge Sep 20 at Chaparral Sep 27 at Belle Plaine Oct 04 Douglass Oct 11 Northeast-Arma Oct 18 at Whitewater-Remington Oct 25 Sedgwick Oct 31 Wichita Independent

Lyons (2-7) Sep 06 at Hillsboro Sep 13 at Halstead Sep 20 Sterling Sep 27 Pratt Oct 04 at Nickerson Oct 11 Smoky Valley Oct 18 Ellsworth Oct 25 at Southeast of Saline Oct 31 Sacred Heart

Marion (4-6) Sep 06 Ell-Saline Sep 13 at Sedgwick Sep 20 at Bennington Sep 27 Inman Oct 04 at Wichita Sunrise Academy Oct 11 Hutchinson Trinity Oct 18 at Halstead Oct 25 Hillsboro Oct 31 Moundridge

Marysville (0-9) Sep 06 Winfield Sep 13 Wamego Sep 20 at Chapman Sep 27 at Clay Center Oct 04 Concordia Oct 11 Abilene Oct 18 at Rock Creek Oct 25 Riley County Oct 31 at Nemaha Valley

Minneapolis (3-6) Sep 06 at Russell Sep 13 Washington County Sep 20 at La Crosse Sep 27 Southeast of Saline Oct 04 at Sacred Heart Oct 11 Ellsworth Oct 18 at Norton Oct 25 Phillipsburg Oct 31 at Beloit

Moundridge (1-8) Sep 06 Inman Sep 13 at Hutch Trinity Sep 20 at Ell-Saline Sep 27 Bennington Oct 04 at Whitewater-Remington Oct 11 Sedgwick Oct 18 at Hillsboro Oct 25 Halstead Oct 31 at Marion

Neodesha (7-3) Sep 06 Osawatomie Sep 13 at Silver Lake Sep 20 at Humboldt Sep 27 Eureka Oct 04 Fredonia Oct 11 at Burlington Oct 18 Erie Oct 25 at Caney Valley Oct 31 Cherryvale

Norton (7-3) Sep 06 at Smith Center Sep 13 Goodland Sep 20 at Plainville Sep 27 Oberlin-Decatur Co. Oct 04 Ellis Oct 11 at Colby Oct 18 Minneapolis Oct 25 at Beloit Oct 31 Phillipsburg

Osage City (5-4) Sep 06 at Chase County (Sat ESU) Sep 13 Lyndon Sep 20 at Herington Sep 27 Northern Heights Oct 04 Council Grove Oct 11 at Mission Valley Oct 18 at West Franklin Oct 25 at Wellsville Oct 31 Central Heights

Phillipsburg (7-2) Sep 06 at Plainville Sep 13 Oberlin-Decatur Co. Sep 20 at Oakley Sep 27 Smith Center Oct 04 Hoisington Oct 11 at Thomas More Prep Oct 18 Beloit Oct 25 at Minneapolis Oct 31 at Norton

Pitt-St. Marys Colgan (8-4) Sep 06 Erie (TH) Sep 13 Baxter Springs (TH) Sep 20 at Anderson County Sep 27 at Frontenac Oct 04 Girard Oct 11 at Columbus Oct 18 Galena Oct 25 at Riverton Oct 31 Southeast-Cherokee

Pomona-West Franklin (3-6) Sep 06 at Northern Heights Sep 13 Chase County Sep 20 at Lyndon Sep 27 Herington Oct 04 Mission Valley Oct 11 at Council Grove Oct 18 Osage City Oct 25 Central Heights Oct 31 at Wellsville

Richmond-Central Hts. (4-6) Sep 06 Jayhawk-Linn Sep 13 at Burlington Sep 20 at Osawatomie Sep 27 Anderson County Oct 04 at Iola Oct 11 Prairie View Oct 18 Wellsville Oct 25 at West Franklin Oct 31 at Osage City

Riley County (5-5) Sep 06 Clay Center Sep 13 at Centralia Sep 20 Silver Lake Sep 27 at Rossville Oct 04 Wabaunsee Oct 11 at St. Marys Oct 18 Nemaha Valley Oct 25 at Marysville Oct 31 Rock Creek

Riverton (5-4) Sep 06 at Frontenac Sep 13 Girard Sep 20 at Erie Sep 27 at Columbus Oct 04 Baxter Springs Oct 11 at Parsons Oct 18 Southeast-Cherokee Oct 25 St. Mary’s Colgan Oct 31 at Galena

Rossville (11-2) Sep 06 Chapman Sep 13 at Abilene Sep 20 Wabaunsee Sep 27 Riley County Oct 04 Rock Creek Oct 11 at Silver Lake Oct 18 Mission Valley Oct 25 at Council Grove Oct 31 at St. Marys

Russell (1-8) Sep 06 Minneapolis Sep 13 at Ellsworth Sep 20 Beloit Sep 27 Republic County Oct 04 at Southeast of Saline Oct 11 at Sacred Heart Oct 18 Thomas More Prep Oct 25 Hoisington Oct 31 at Scott City

Sabetha (5-6) Sep 06 Jefferson West Sep 13 Perry-Lecompton Sep 20 at Holton Sep 27 at Royal Valley Oct 04 Santa Fe Trail Oct 11 at Nemaha Valley Oct 18 at Riverside Oct 25 Horton Oct 31 at Hiawatha

Salina-Sacred Heart (9-2) Sep 06 at Hutch Trinity Sep 13 Republic County Sep 20 Sedgwick Sep 27 at Beloit Oct 04 Minneapolis Oct 11 Russell Oct 18 at Southeast of Saline Oct 25 Ellsworth Oct 31 at Lyons

Scott City (14-0) Sep 06 Abilene Sep 13 Colby Sep 20 at Holcomb Sep 27 at Ulysses Oct 04 Hugoton Oct 11 Goodland Oct 18 at Hoisington Oct 25 at Thomas More Prep Oct 31 Russell

Sedgwick (10-2) Sep 06 Olpe Sep 13 Marion Sep 20 at Sacred Heart Sep 27 at Ell-Saline Oct 04 Hutchinson Trinity Oct 11 at Moundridge Oct 18 Wichita Independent Oct 25 at Leon-Bluestem Oct 31 Whitewater-Remington

Seneca-Nemaha Valley (7-3) Sep 06 McLouth Sep 13 Royal Valley Sep 20 at Jefferson West Sep 27 Perry-Lecompton Oct 04 at Hiawatha Oct 11 Sabetha Oct 18 at Riley County Oct 25 at Rock Creek Oct 31 Marysville

Silver Lake (13-1) Sep 06 Wabaunsee Sep 13 Neodesha Sep 20 at Riley County Sep 27 at Rock Creek Oct 04 St. Marys Oct 11 Rossville Oct 18 at Pleasant Ridge Oct 25 at Atchison County Oct 31 Maur Hill

St. George-Rock Creek (5-4) Sep 06 at Wamego Sep 13 at Wabuansee Sep 20 St. Marys Sep 27 Silver Lake Oct 04 at Rossville Oct 11 at Christ Prep Academy Oct 18 Marysville Oct 25 Nemaha Valley Oct 31 at Riley County

St. Marys (4-6) Sep 06 Centralia Sep 13 Valley Heights Sep 20 at Rock Creek Sep 27 at Wabaunsee Oct 04 at Silver Lake Oct 11 Riley County Oct 18 Council Grove Oct 25 at Mission Valley Oct 31 Rossville

Wathena-Riverside (7-2) Sep 06 at Doniphan West Sep 13 Valley Falls Sep 20 Maur Hill Sep 27 at Troy Oct 04 Atchison County Oct 11 at Onaga Oct 18 Sabetha Oct 25 at Hiawatha Oct 31 at Horton

Wellsville (6-5) Sep 06 Baldwin Sep 13 at Olpe Sep 20 Prairie View Sep 27 at Osawatomie Oct 04 Anderson County Oct 11 at Iola Oct 18 at Central Heights Oct 25 Osage City Oct 31 West Franklin

Whitewater-Remington (1-8) Sep 06 at Bennington Sep 13 Ell-Saline Sep 20 at Southeast of Saline Sep 27 at Hutchinson Trinity Oct 04 Moundridge Oct 11 Hillsboro Oct 18 Leon-Bluestem Oct 25 at Wichita Independent Oct 31 at Sedgwick

Wichita-Independent (6-4) Sep 06 at Medicine Lodge Sep 13 Cheney Sep 20 at Conway Springs Sep 27 Douglass Oct 04 at Chaparral Oct 11 Belle Plaine Oct 18 at Sedgwick Oct 25 Whitewater-Remington Oct 31 at Leon-Bluestem

Allen-Northern Heights (4-5) Sep 06 West Franklin Sep 13 at Council Grove Sep 20 Mission Valley Sep 27 at Osage City Oct 04 at Onaga Oct 11 Chase County Oct 18 at Wabaunsee Oct 25 Herington Nov 01 at Lyndon

Alma-Wabaunsee (2-8) Sep 06 at Silver Lake Sep 13 Rock Creek Sep 20 at Rossville Sep 27 St. Marys Oct 04 at Riley County Oct 11 at Herington Oct 18 Northern Heights Oct 25 at Onaga Nov 01 Chase County

Arma-Northeast (4-5) Sep 06 Humboldt Sep 13 at Fredonia Sep 20 Eureka Sep 27 Galena Oct 04 at Jayhawk-Linn Oct 11 at Leon-Bluestem Oct 18 Olpe Oct 25 at Lyndon Nov 01 Oswego

Belleville-Republic Co. (0-9) Sep 06 Southeast of Saline Sep 13 at Sacred Heart Sep 20 Ellsworth Sep 27 at Russell Oct 04 at Bennington Oct 11 at Washington County Oct 18 Ell-Saline Oct 25 at Plainville Nov 01 Smith Center

Bennington (4-5) Sep 06 Whitewater-Remington Sep 13 at Inman Sep 20 Marion Sep 27 at Moundridge Oct 04 Republic County Oct 11 at Plainville Oct 18 Washington County Oct 25 at Smith Center Nov 01 Ell-Saline

Brookville-Ell-Saline (7-3) Sep 06 at Marion Sep 13 at Whitewater-Remington Sep 20 Moundridge Sep 27 Sedgwick Oct 04 at Plainville Oct 11 Smith Center Oct 18 at Republic County Oct 25 Washington County Nov 01 at Bennington

Centralia/Wetmore (12-1) Sep 06 at St. Marys Sep 13 Riley County Sep 20 at Washington County Sep 27 Onaga Oct 04 Valley Heights Oct 11 at Atchison County Oct 18 at Troy Oct 25 Doniphan West Nov 01 at Jackson Heights

Cottonwood Falls-Chase Co. (2-7) Sep 06 Osage City (Sat ESU) Sep 13 at West Franklin Sep 20 Council Grove Sep 27 at Mission Valley Oct 04 Herington Oct 11 at Northern Heights Oct 18 Onaga Oct 25 Olpe Nov 01 at Wabaunsee

Elkhart (5-4) Sep 06 at Turpin (Okla.)

Sep 13 Southwestern Heights Sep 20 at Lakin Sep 27 at Leoti-Wichita Co. Oct 04 at Sublette Oct 11 Cimarron Oct 18 Stanton County Oct 25 Meade Nov 01 at Syracuse

Ellinwood (0-9) Sep 06 Thomas More Prep Sep 13 at Larned Sep 20 at Ellis Sep 27 Hoisington Oct 04 Sterling Oct 11 Lakin Oct 18 at Medicine Lodge Oct 25 La Crosse Nov 01 at Inman

3A SCHEDULES (continued from previous page)

2-1A SCHEDULES Blue Rapids-Valley Hts. (3-6) Sep 06 Valley Falls Sep 13 at St. Marys Sep 20 at Onaga Sep 27 Washington County Oct 04 at Centralia Oct 11 Troy Oct 18 at Doniphan West Oct 25 Jackson Heights Nov 01 Oskaloosa (TH)

Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

Page 87

Ellis (4-5) Sep 06 at La Crosse Sep 13 Plainville Sep 20 Ellinwood Sep 27 at Larned Oct 04 at Norton Oct 11 at Leoti-Wichita Co. Oct 18 St. Francis Oct 25 at Oberlin-Decatur Co. Nov 01 Oakley

Herington (0-9) Sep 06 Council Grove Sep 13 at Mission Valley Sep 20 Osage City Sep 27 at West Franklin Oct 04 at Chase County Oct 11 Wabaunsee Oct 18 at Inman Oct 25 at Northern Heights Nov 01 Onaga

Highland-Doniphan West (2-7) Sep 06 Riverside Sep 13 at McLouth Sep 20 at Atchison County Sep 27 Horton Oct 04 Maur Hill Oct 11 at Jackson Heights Oct 18 Valley Heights Oct 25 at Centralia Nov 01 Troy

Holton-Jackson Hts. (6-4) Sep 06 Horton Sep 13 Oskaloosa Sep 20 at Valley Falls Sep 27 at Maur Hill Oct 04 Troy Oct 11 Doniphan West Oct 18 at Jefferson Co. North Oct 25 at Valley Heights Nov 01 Centralia

Inman (6-3) Sep 06 at Moundridge Sep 13 Bennington Sep 20 Hutchinson Trinity Sep 27 at Marion Oct 04 at Medicine Lodge Oct 11 La Crosse Oct 18 Herington Oct 25 at Sterling Nov 01 Ellinwood

Johnson-Stanton Co. (8-2) Sep 06 Beaver (Okla.)

Sep 13 Leoti-Wichita Co. Sep 20 at St. Francis Sep 27 at Southwestern Heights Oct 04 at Meade Oct 11 Sublette Oct 18 at Elkhart Oct 25 Syracuse Nov 01 vs. Sterling (Dodge City)

La Crosse (11-1) Sep 06 Ellis Sep 13 at Hoisington Sep 20 Minneapolis Sep 27 Plainville Oct 04 at Thomas More Prep Oct 11 at Inman Oct 18 Sterling Oct 25 at Ellinwood Nov 01 Medicine Lodge

Leavenworth-Immaculata (2-7) Sep 06 at KC Sumner Academy Sep 13 at Onaga Sep 20 Jayhawk-Linn Sep 27 Pleasant Ridge Oct 04 Jefferson Co. North Oct 11 at Oskaloosa Oct 18 at Valley Falls Oct 25 at Troy Nov 01 McLouth

Leoti-Wichita County (1-8) Sep 06 Cimarron Sep 13 at Stanton County Sep 20 Syracuse Sep 27 Elkhart Oct 04 at Oakley Oct 11 Ellis Oct 18 at Meade Oct 25 at St. Francis Nov 01 Oberlin-Decatur Co.

Lyndon (11-1) Sep 06 Mission Valley Sep 13 at Osage City Sep 20 West Franklin Sep 27 at Council Grove Oct 04 Olpe Oct 11 at Jayhawk-Linn Oct 18 at Oswego Oct 25 Northeast-Arma Nov 01 Northern Heights

McLouth (9-2) Sep 06 at Nemaha Valley Sep 13 Doniphan West Sep 20 at Christ Prep Academy Sep 27 Olpe Oct 04 at Pleasant Ridge Oct 11 at Jefferson Co. North Oct 18 Oskaloosa Oct 25 Valley Falls Nov 01 at Immaculata

Meade (12-1) Sep 06 Holcomb Sep 13 at Lakin Sep 20 at Southwestern Heights Sep 27 Cimarron Oct 04 Stanton County Oct 11 at Syracuse Oct 18 Leoti-Wichita Co. Oct 25 at Elkhart Nov 01 Sublette (TH)

Medicine Lodge (2-7) Sep 06 Wichita Independent Sep 13 Leon-Bluestem Sep 20 at Douglass Sep 27 Chaparral Oct 04 Inman Oct 11 at Sterling Oct 18 Ellinwood Oct 25 at Sublette Nov 01 at La Crosse

Mound City-Jayhawk Linn (1-8) Sep 06 at Central Heights Sep 13 Humboldt Sep 20 at Immaculata Sep 27 at Jefferson Co. North Oct 04 Northeast-Arma Oct 11 Lyndon Oct 18 Christ Prep Academy Oct 25 at Oswego Nov 01 at Olpe

Oakley (7-3) Sep 06 at Colby Sep 13 at Sublette Sep 20 Phillipsburg Sep 27 at Syracuse Oct 04 Leoti-Wichita Co. Oct 11 at St. Francis Oct 18 Oberlin-Decatur Co. Oct 25 OPEN Nov 01 at Ellis

Oberlin-Decatur Comm. (4-6) Sep 06 at Cambridge (Neb.) Sep 13 at Phillipsburg Sep 20 Smith Center Sep 27 at Norton Oct 04 St. Francis Oct 11 at Perkins Co. (Neb.) Oct 18 at Oakley Oct 25 Ellis Nov 01 at Leoti-Wichita Co.

Olpe (8-3) Sep 06 at Sedgwick Sep 13 Wellsville Sep 20 Jefferson Co. North Sep 27 at McLouth Oct 04 at Lyndon Oct 11 Oswego Oct 18 at Northeast-Arma Oct 25 at Chase County Nov 01 Jayhawk-Linn

Onaga (6-4) Sep 06 at Washington County Sep 13 Leavenworth-Immaculata Sep 20 Valley Heights Sep 27 at Centralia Oct 04 Northern Heights Oct 11 Riverside Oct 18 at Chase County Oct 25 Wabaunsee Nov 01 at Herington

Oskaloosa (2-7) Sep 06 at Maur Hill Sep 13 at Jackson Heights Sep 20 Pleasant Ridge Sep 27 Christ Prep Academy Oct 04 Valley Falls Oct 11 Leavenworth-Immaculata Oct 18 at McLouth Oct 25 Jefferson Co. North Nov 01 at Valley Heights (TH)

Oswego (4-5) Sep 06 Fredonia Sep 13 at Eureka Sep 20 at Commerce (Okla.)

Sep 27 Humboldt Oct 04 at Southeast-Cherokee Oct 11 at Olpe Oct 18 Lyndon Oct 25 Jayhawk-Linn Nov 01 at Northeast-Arma

Plainville (5-4) Sep 06 Phillipsburg Sep 13 at Ellis Sep 20 Norton Sep 27 at La Crosse Oct 04 Ell-Saline Oct 11 Bennington Oct 18 at Smith Center Oct 25 Republic County Nov 01 at Washington County

Smith Center (6-4) Sep 06 Norton Sep 13 Beloit Sep 20 at Oberlin-Decatur Co. Sep 27 at Phillipsburg Oct 04 Washington County Oct 11 at Ell-Saline Oct 18 Plainville Oct 25 Bennington Nov 01 at Republic County

St. Francis (4-4) Sep 06 Holyoke (Colo.)

Sep 13 Dundy County (Neb.) Sep 20 Stanton County Sep 27 OPEN Oct 04 at Oberlin-Decatur Co. Oct 11 Oakley Oct 18 at Ellis Oct 25 Leoti-Wichita Co. Nov 01 OPEN

Sterling (4-7) Sep 06 at Smoky Valley Sep 13 Hillsboro Sep 20 at Lyons Sep 27 Halstead Oct 04 at Ellinwood Oct 11 Medicine Lodge Oct 18 at La Crosse Oct 25 Inman Nov 01 vs. Stanton County

Sublette (2-7) Sep 06 at Southwestern Heights Sep 13 Oakley Sep 20 at Cimarron Sep 27 Lakin Oct 04 Elkhart Oct 11 at Stanton County Oct 18 Syracuse Oct 25 Medicine Lodge Nov 01 at Meade (TH)

Syracuse (0-9) Sep 06 Lakin Sep 13 at Cimarron Sep 20 at Leoti-Wichita Co. Sep 27 Oakley Oct 04 Southwestern Heights Oct 11 Meade Oct 18 at Sublette Oct 25 at Stanton County Nov 01 Elkhart

Troy (2-7) Sep 06 at Atchison County Sep 13 Maur Hill Sep 20 at Horton Sep 27 Riverside Oct 04 at Jackson Heights Oct 11 at Valley Heights Oct 18 Centralia Oct 25 Leavenworth-Immaculata Nov 01 at Doniphan West

Valley Falls (4-5) Sep 06 at Valley Heights Sep 13 at Riverside Sep 20 Jackson Heights Sep 27 Atchison County Oct 04 at Oskaloosa Oct 11 Pleasant Ridge Oct 18 Leavenworth-Immaculata Oct 25 at McLouth Nov 01 at Jefferson Co. North (TH)

Washington County (3-6) Sep 06 Onaga Sep 13 at Minneapolis Sep 20 Centralia Sep 27 at Valley Heights Oct 04 at Smith Center Oct 11 Republic County Oct 18 at Bennington Oct 25 at Ell-Saline Nov 01 Plainville

Winchester-Jeff. Co. North (6-4) Sep 06 Christ Prep Academy Sep 13 at Pleasant Ridge Sep 20 at Olpe Sep 27 Jayhawk-Linn Oct 04 at Immaculata Oct 11 McLouth Oct 18 Jackson Heights Oct 25 at Oskaloosa Nov 01 Valley Falls (TH)

Atwood-Rawlins Co. (7-2) Sep 06 at Wheatland-Grinnell Sep 13 at Cheylin Sep 20 Sylvan-Lucas Unified Sep 27 at Quinter Oct 04 Hill City Oct 11 at WaKeeney-Trego Oct 18 Quinter Oct 25 at Ness City Oct 31 Hoxie

Burden-Central (7-2) Sep 06 at Caldwell Sep 13 Flinthills Sep 20 Sedan Sep 27 at Yates Center Oct 04 at Cedar Vale-Dexter Oct 11 West Elk Oct 18 at Oxford Oct 25 Udall Oct 31 at South Haven

Burlingame (1-8) Sep 06 at Southern Coffey Co. Sep 13 Not Set At Press Time Sep 20 at Peabody-Burns Sep 27 Centre-Lost Springs Oct 04 at Hartford Oct 11 Flinthills Oct 18 at Madison Oct 25 Lebo Oct 31 Sedan

Canton-Galva (3-6) Sep 06 Hutch Central Christian Sep 13 Goessel Sep 20 at St. John’s Military Sep 27 at Peabody-Burns Oct 04 Central Plains Oct 11 at Solomon Oct 18 Pretty Prairie Oct 25 at Little River Oct 31 Lincoln

Cedar Vale/Dexter (2-7) Sep 06 at Flinthills Sep 13 Argonia-Attica Sep 20 South Haven Sep 27 at Sedan Oct 04 Central Burden Oct 11 Centre-Lost Springs Oct 18 at West Elk Oct 25 Oxford Oct 31 at Udall

Claflin-Central Plains (4-5) Sep 06 at Stafford Sep 13 Otis-Bison Sep 20 St. John Sep 27 Victoria Oct 04 at Canton-Galva Oct 11 at Pretty Prairie Oct 18 Lincoln Oct 25 at Solomon Oct 31 Little River

Clyde-Clifton Clyde (5-2) Sep 06 at Kenesaw (Neb.) Sep 13 at Axtell Sep 20 at Pike Valley Sep 27 Mankato-Rock Hills Oct 04 at Lakeside-Downs Oct 11 Wakefield Oct 18 at Osborne Oct 25 Linn Oct 31 Wichita Word of Life

Coldwater-South Central (4-5) Sep 06 at Ashland Sep 13 Bucklin Sep 20 at Pratt-Skyline Sep 27 Fairfield Oct 04 at Kiowa County Oct 11 St. John Oct 18 at Macksville Oct 25 Kinsley Oct 31 Windsor Hills Baptist (Okla.)

Deerfield (2-7) Sep 06 Plainview (CO) Sep 13 at Rolla Sep 20 at Moscow Sep 27 Fowler Oct 04 Minneola Oct 11 Spearville Oct 18 at South Gray Oct 25 Hodgeman County Oct 31 at Satanta

Downs-Lakeside (2-7) Sep 06 Lincoln Sep 13 at Chase Sep 20 at Osborne Sep 27 Linn Oct 04 Clifton-Clyde Oct 11 at Pike Valley Oct 18 Mankato-Rock Hills Oct 25 at Beloit St. John’s-Tipton Oct 31 at Wakefield

Greensburg-Kiowa Co. (6-4) Sep 06 at Minneola Sep 13 South Gray Sep 20 at Macksville Sep 27 Kinsley Oct 04 South Central Oct 11 at Pratt-Skyline Oct 18 Fairfield Oct 25 OPEN Oct 31 at St. John

Hartford (1-8) Sep 06 at Marais des Cygnes Valley Sep 13 Waverly Sep 20 at Madison Sep 27 Lebo Oct 04 Burlingame Oct 11 at Peabody-Burns Oct 18 Centre-Lost Springs Oct 25 at West Elk Oct 31 at Flinthills

Hill City (0-8) Sep 06 Stockton Sep 13 at Osborne Sep 20 Northern Valley Sep 27 Satanta Oct 04 at Atwood-Rawlins Co. Oct 11 at Quinter Oct 18 Hoxie Oct 25 at WaKeeney-Trego Oct 31 Ness City

Howard-West Elk (4-5) Sep 06 St. Paul Sep 13 at Yates Center Sep 20 at Udall Sep 27 South Haven Oct 04 Sedan Oct 11 at Central Burden Oct 18 Cedar Vale-Dexter Oct 25 Hartford Oct 31 at Oxford

Hoxie (7-3) Sep 06 at Tribune-Greeley Co. Sep 13 Sharon Springs-Wallace Co. Sep 20 at Otis-Bison Sep 27 at Dighton Oct 04 WaKeeney-Trego Oct 11 Ness City Oct 18 at Hill City Oct 25 Quinter Oct 31 at Atwood-Rawlins Co.

Jetmore-Hodgeman Co. (8-3) Sep 06 at Fowler Sep 13 Ashland Sep 20 WaKeeney-Trego Sep 27 at Ness City Oct 04 at Spearville Oct 11 at Satanta Oct 18 Minneola Oct 25 at Deerfield Oct 31 South Gray

Kinsley (4-4) Sep 06 at Ness City Sep 13 at Wilson Sep 20 at Fairfield Sep 27 at Kiowa County Oct 04 St. John Oct 11 Macksville Oct 18 Wichita Word of Life Oct 25 at South Central Oct 31 Pratt-Skyline

Langdon-Fairfield (6-3) Sep 06 at Burrton Sep 13 Pretty Prairie Sep 20 Kinsley Sep 27 at South Central Oct 04 Pratt-Skyline Oct 11 Cunningham Oct 18 at Kiowa County Oct 25 St. John Oct 31 at Macksville

Lebo (6-3) Sep 06 at Waverly Sep 13 Southern Coffey Co. Sep 20 at Centre-Lost Springs Sep 27 at Hartford Oct 04 Flinthills Oct 11 Madison Oct 18 at KC East Christian Aca. Oct 25 at Burlingame Oct 31 Peabody-Burns

Lincoln (4-5) Sep 06 at Lakeside-Downs Sep 13 at Sylvan-Lucas Unified Sep 20 Hanover Sep 27 at Pike Valley Oct 04 Solomon Oct 11 Little River Oct 18 at Central Plains Oct 25 Pretty Prairie Oct 31 at Canton-Galva

Linn (0-9) Sep 06 at Hanover Sep 13 Blue Valley Randolph Sep 20 at Mankato-Rock Hills Sep 27 at Lakeside-Downs Oct 04 Wakefield Oct 11 Osborne Oct 18 at Southern Cloud Oct 25 at Clifton-Clyde Oct 31 Pike Valley

Little River (7-2) Sep 06 at Wakefield Sep 13 Peabody-Burns Sep 20 at White City Sep 27 Hutch Central Christian Oct 04 Pretty Prairie Oct 11 at Lincoln Oct 18 Solomon Oct 25 Canton-Galva Oct 31 at Central Plains

Lost Springs-Centre (5-4) Sep 06 at Goessel Sep 13 Wakefield Sep 20 Lebo Sep 27 at Burlingame Oct 04 Peabody-Burns Oct 11 at Cedar Vale-Dexter Oct 18 at Hartford Oct 25 Flinthills Oct 31 at Madison

Macksville (4-5) Sep 06 at Victoria Sep 13 Ness City Sep 20 Kiowa County Sep 27 at St. John Oct 04 at South Barber Oct 11 at Kinsley Oct 18 South Central Oct 25 at Pratt-Skyline Oct 31 Fairfield

Madison/Hamilton (10-2) Sep 06 at Baileyville B&B Sep 13 Marais des Cygnes Valley Sep 20 Hartford Sep 27 at Flinthills Oct 04 Wichita Home School Oct 11 at Lebo Oct 18 Burlingame Oct 25 at Peabody-Burns Oct 31 Centre-Lost Springs

Mankato-Rock Hills (11-2) Sep 06 Thunder Ridge Sep 13 at Hanover Sep 20 Linn Sep 27 at Clifton-Clyde Oct 04 Pike Valley Oct 11 at Hutch Central Christian Oct 18 at Lakeside-Downs Oct 25 Wakefield Oct 31 at Osborne

Marais Des Cygnes Valley (6-4) Sep 06 Hartford Sep 13 at Madison Sep 20 at Southern Coffey Co. Sep 27 Waverly Oct 04 at Marmaton Valley Oct 11 at Yates Center Oct 18 Uniontown Oct 25 at St. Paul Oct 31 Pleasanton

Minneola (8-2) Sep 06 Kiowa County Sep 13 Fowler Sep 20 at Ashland Sep 27 Bucklin Oct 04 at Deerfield Oct 11 South Gray Oct 18 at Hodgeman County Oct 25 Satanta Oct 31 at Spearville

Montezuma-South Gray (4-5) Sep 06 Ingalls Sep 13 at Kiowa County Sep 20 at Bucklin Sep 27 Rolla Oct 04 Satanta Oct 11 at Minneola Oct 18 Deerfield Oct 25 Spearville Oct 31 at Hodgeman County

Moran-Marmaton Valley (10-1) Sep 06 at Chetopa Sep 13 at Colony-Crest Sep 20 at Blue Valley Randolph Sep 27 Elk Valley Oct 04 Marais des Cygnes Valley Oct 11 at Uniontown Oct 18 Pleasanton Oct 25 at Yates Center Oct 31 St. Paul

Ness City (13-0) Sep 06 Kinsley Sep 13 at Macksville Sep 20 at Victoria Sep 27 Hodgeman County Oct 04 Quinter Oct 11 at Hoxie Oct 18 WaKeeney-Trego Oct 25 Atwood-Rawlins Co. Oct 31 at Hill City

Osborne (6-3) Sep 06 at WaKeeney-Trego Sep 13 Hill City Sep 20 Lakeside-Downs Sep 27 at Wakefield Oct 04 Stockton Oct 11 at Linn Oct 18 Clifton-Clyde Oct 25 at Pike Valley Oct 31 Mankato-Rock Hills

Oxford (5-4) Sep 06 OPEN Sep 13 Norwich Sep 20 at Flinthills Sep 27 Udall Oct 04 at South Haven Oct 11 at Sedan Oct 18 Central Burden Oct 25 at Cedar Vale-Dexter Oct 31 West Elk

Peabody-Burns (6-4) Sep 06 White City Sep 13 at Little River Sep 20 Burlingame Sep 27 Canton-Galva Oct 04 at Centre-Lost Springs Oct 11 Hartford Oct 18 at Flinthills Oct 25 Madison Oct 31 at Lebo

Pleasanton (3-6) Sep 06 at Colony-Crest (TH) Sep 13 North Andrew (Mo.) Sep 20 Chetopa Sep 27 at Southern Coffey Co. Oct 04 at Yates Center Oct 11 St. Paul Oct 18 at Marmaton Valley Oct 25 Uniontown Oct 31 at Marais des Cygnes Valley

8-MAN I SCHEDULES

Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

Page 88

Pratt-Skyline (0-9) Sep 06 South Barber Sep 13 at Cunningham Sep 20 South Central Sep 27 at Otis-Bison Oct 04 at Fairfield Oct 11 Kiowa County Oct 18 at St. John Oct 25 Macksville Oct 31 at Kinsley

Pretty Prairie (8-3) Sep 06 Cunningham Sep 13 at Fairfield Sep 20 vs. Baileyville B&B (TH) Sep 27 Norwich Oct 04 at Little River Oct 11 Central Plains Oct 18 at Canton-Galva Oct 25 at Lincoln Oct 31 Solomon

Quinter (3-6) Sep 06 at Golden Plains Sep 13 Baileyville B&B Sep 20 Dighton Sep 27 Atwood-Rawlins Co. Oct 04 at Ness City Oct 11 Hill City Oct 18 at Atwood-Rawlins Co. Oct 25 at Hoxie Oct 31 WaKeeney-Trego

Rosalia-Flinthills (4-5) Sep 06 Cedar Vale-Dexter Sep 13 at Central Burden Sep 20 Oxford Sep 27 Madison Oct 04 at Lebo Oct 11 at Burlingame Oct 18 Peabody-Burns Oct 25 at Centre-Lost Springs Oct 31 Hartford

Satanta (2-7) Sep 06 Goodwell (Okla.)

Sep 13 Moscow Sep 20 at Ingalls Sep 27 at Hill City Oct 04 at South Gray Oct 11 Hodgeman County Oct 18 at Spearville Oct 25 at Minneola Oct 31 Deerfield

Scandia-Pike Valley (4-6) Sep 06 at Beloit St. John’s-Tipton Sep 13 at Thunder Ridge Sep 20 Clifton-Clyde Sep 27 Lincoln Oct 04 at Mankato-Rock Hills Oct 11 Lakeside-Downs Oct 18 at Wakefield Oct 25 Osborne Oct 31 at Linn

Sedan (4-5) Sep 06 Yates Center Sep 13 at Uniontown Sep 20 at Central Burden Sep 27 Cedar Vale-Dexter Oct 04 at West Elk Oct 11 Oxford Oct 18 at Udall Oct 25 South Haven Oct 31 at Burlingame

Solomon (10-2) Sep 06 Hope Sep 13 at White City Sep 20 Wakefield Sep 27 Sylvan-Lucas Unified Oct 04 at Lincoln Oct 11 Canton-Galva Oct 18 at Little River Oct 25 Central Plains Oct 31 at Pretty Prairie

South Haven (10-1) Sep 06 at Norwich Sep 13 South Barber Sep 20 at Cedar Vale-Dexter Sep 27 at West Elk Oct 04 Oxford Oct 11 Udall Oct 18 at Caldwell Oct 25 at Sedan Oct 31 Central Burden

Spearville (5-4) Sep 06 at Bucklin Sep 13 Ingalls Sep 20 at Fowler Sep 27 Ashland Oct 04 Hodgeman County Oct 11 at Deerfield Oct 18 Satanta Oct 25 at South Gray Oct 31 Minneola

St. John-Hudson (8-2) Sep 06 Otis-Bison Sep 13 Victoria Sep 20 at Central Plains Sep 27 Macksville Oct 04 at Kinsley Oct 11 at South Central Oct 18 Pratt-Skyline Oct 25 at Fairfield Oct 31 Kiowa County

St. Paul (6-2) Sep 06 at West Elk Sep 13 Chetopa Sep 20 Not Set At Press Time Sep 27 at Colony-Crest Oct 04 Uniontown Oct 11 at Pleasanton Oct 18 Yates Center Oct 25 Marais des Cygnes Valley Oct 31 at Marmaton Valley

Udall (7-3) Sep 06 at Argonia-Attica Sep 13 Caldwell Sep 20 West Elk Sep 27 at Oxford Oct 04 at Hutch Central Christian Oct 11 at South Haven Oct 18 Sedan Oct 25 at Central Burden Oct 31 Cedar Vale-Dexter

Uniontown (3-5) Sep 06 at Bishop Seabury Sep 13 Sedan Sep 20 Colony-Crest Sep 27 at Chetopa Oct 04 at St. Paul Oct 11 Marmaton Valley Oct 18 at Marais des Cygnes Valley Oct 25 at Pleasanton Oct 31 Yates Center

Wakeeney-Trego Comm. (5-4) Sep 06 Osborne Sep 13 at Stockton Sep 20 at Hodgeman County Sep 27 Ingalls Oct 04 at Hoxie Oct 11 Atwood-Rawlins Co. Oct 18 at Ness City Oct 25 Hill City Oct 31 at Quinter

Wakefield (4-5) Sep 06 Little River Sep 13 at Centre-Lost Springs Sep 20 at Solomon Sep 27 Osborne Oct 04 at Linn Oct 11 at Clifton-Clyde Oct 18 Pike Valley Oct 25 at Mankato-Rock Hills Oct 31 Lakeside-Downs

Yates Center (0-9) Sep 06 at Sedan Sep 13 West Elk Sep 20 at Waverly Sep 27 Central Burden Oct 04 Pleasanton Oct 11 Marais des Cygnes Valley Oct 18 at St. Paul Oct 25 Marmaton Valley Oct 31 at Uniontown

Almena-Northern Valley (7-2) Sep 06 at Alma (Neb.) Sep 13 Triplains-Brewster Sep 20 at Hill City Sep 27 Logan-Palco Oct 04 at Beloit St. John’s-Tipton Oct 11 Natoma Oct 18 at Stockton Oct 25 Thunder Ridge Oct 31 at Golden Plains

Argonia/Attica Sep 06 Udall (Arg) Sep 13 at Cedar Vale-Dexter Sep 20 at Norwich Sep 27 Cunningham (Att) Oct 04 Hope (Arg) Oct 11 Stafford (Att) Oct 18 at South Barber Oct 25 Caldwell (Arg) Oct 31 at Burrton

Ashland (1-8) Sep 06 South Central Sep 13 at Hodgeman County Sep 20 Minneola Sep 27 at Spearville Oct 04 Bucklin Oct 11 at Rolla Oct 18 Moscow Oct 25 at Ingalls Oct 31 Fowler

Axtell (5-4) Sep 06 at Lewiston (Neb.) Sep 13 Clifton-Clyde Sep 20 Fall City-Sacred Heart (NE) Sep 27 at St. John’s Military Oct 04 Baileyville B&B Oct 11 at Hanover Oct 18 Frankfort Oct 25 at Blue Valley Randolph Oct 31 at KC East Christian Aca.

Baileyville-B&B (13-0) Sep 06 Madison Sep 13 at Quinter Sep 20 vs. Pretty Prairie (TH) Sep 27 vs. Caldwell (at Hope) Oct 04 at Axtell Oct 11 at Frankfort Oct 18 Southern Coffey Co. Oct 25 at Hanover Oct 31 Blue Valley Randolph

Beloit-St. Johns/Tipton (8-2) Sep 06 Pike Valley Sep 13 at Southern Cloud Sep 20 at Stockton Sep 27 Thunder Ridge Oct 04 Northern Valley Oct 11 Blue Valley Randolph Oct 18 Logan-Palco Oct 25 Lakeside-Downs Oct 31 at Natoma

Bird City-Cheylin (5-4) Sep 06 at Hitchcock County (Neb.) Sep 13 Atwood-Rawlins Co. Sep 20 at Wheatland-Grinnell Sep 27 Sharon Springs-Wallace Co. Oct 04 Golden Plains Oct 11 at Weskan Oct 18 Thunder Ridge Oct 25 at Tribune-Greeley Co. Oct 31 at Triplains-Brewster

Bucklin (0-9) Sep 06 Spearville Sep 13 at South Central Sep 20 South Gray Sep 27 at Minneola Oct 04 at Ashland Oct 11 at Moscow Oct 18 Fowler Oct 25 at Rolla Oct 31 Ingalls

Burrton (0-9) Sep 06 Fairfield Sep 13 at Stafford Sep 20 at Tescott Sep 27 Goessel Oct 04 at Chase Oct 11 White City Oct 18 at Hope Oct 25 Southern Cloud Oct 31 Argonia-Attica

Caldwell (6-5) Sep 06 Central Burden Sep 13 at Udall Sep 20 at Cunningham Sep 27 vs. Baileyville B&B (at Hope) Oct 04 Stafford Oct 11 South Barber Oct 18 South Haven Oct 25 at Argonia-Attica Oct 31 Norwich

Chase (7-3) Sep 06 Wilson Sep 13 Lakeside-Downs Sep 20 at Hope Sep 27 Southern Cloud Oct 04 Burrton Oct 11 at Tescott Oct 18 Goessel Oct 25 at St. John’s Military Oct 31 at White City

Chetopa (4-4) Sep 06 Marmaton Valley Sep 13 at St. Paul Sep 20 at Pleasanton Sep 27 Uniontown Oct 04 Tyro Christian Oct 11 at Southern Coffey Co. Oct 18 Colony-Crest Oct 25 at Waverly Oct 31 Elk Valley

Colony-Crest (7-4) Sep 06 Pleasanton (TH) Sep 13 Marmaton Valley Sep 20 at Uniontown Sep 27 St. Paul Oct 04 at Waverly Oct 11 Elk Valley Oct 18 at Chetopa Oct 25 Southern Coffey Co. Oct 31 at Tyro Christian

Cunningham (4-5) Sep 06 at Pretty Prairie Sep 13 Pratt-Skyline Sep 20 Caldwell Sep 27 at Argonia-Attica Oct 04 Norwich Oct 11 at Fairfield Oct 18 OPEN Oct 25 Stafford Oct 31 at South Barber

Dighton (2-6) Sep 06 at Wallace Co. Sep 13 Tribune-Greeley Co. Sep 20 at Quinter Sep 27 Hoxie Oct 04 Otis-Bison Oct 11 at Wilson Oct 18 Victoria Oct 25 at Sylvan-Lucas Unified Oct 31 Western Plains

Fowler (9-2) Sep 06 Hodgeman County Sep 13 at Minneola Sep 20 Spearville Sep 27 at Deerfield Oct 04 at Rolla Oct 11 Ingalls Oct 18 at Bucklin Oct 25 Moscow Oct 31 at Ashland

Frankfort (4-4) Sep 06 Southern Cloud Sep 13 at Hope Sep 20 Veritas Christian Sep 27 OPEN Oct 04 at Blue Valley Randolph Oct 11 Baileyville B&B Oct 18 at Axtell Oct 25 at Hampton (Neb.) Oct 31 Hanover

Glasco/Miltonvale-So. Cloud (5-4) Sep 06 at Frankfort Sep 13 Beloit St. John’s-Tipton Sep 20 at Goessel Sep 27 at Chase Oct 04 White City Oct 11 Hope Oct 18 Linn Oct 25 at Burrton Oct 31 Tescott

Goessel (6-4) Sep 06 Centre-Lost Springs Sep 13 at Canton-Galva Sep 20 Southern Cloud Sep 27 at Burrton Oct 04 Tescott Oct 11 at Norwich Oct 18 at Chase Oct 25 White City Oct 31 at Hope

Grainfield-Wheatland/Grinnell (5-4) Sep 06 Atwood-Rawlins Co. (W) Sep 13 Heartland Christian (W) Sep 20 Cheylin (W) Sep 27 at Triplains-Brewster Oct 04 Tribune-Greeley Co. (G) Oct 11 at Logan Oct 18 Weskan (W) Oct 25 at Golden Plains Oct 31 at Wallace Co.

Hanover (9-3) Sep 06 Linn Sep 13 Mankato-Rock Hills Sep 20 at Lincoln Sep 27 Cair Paravel Oct 04 vs. Wallace Co. (SAT) Oct 11 Axtell Oct 18 at Blue Valley Randolph Oct 25 Baileyville B&B Oct 31 at Frankfort

Hope (4-4) Sep 06 at Solomon Sep 13 Frankfort Sep 20 Chase Sep 27 at White City Oct 04 at Argonia-Attica Oct 11 at Southern Cloud Oct 18 Burrton Oct 25 at Tescott Oct 31 Goessel

Ingalls (5-4) Sep 06 at South Gray Sep 13 at Spearville Sep 20 Satanta Sep 27 at WaKeeney-Trego Oct 04 Moscow Oct 11 at Fowler Oct 18 Rolla Oct 25 Ashland Oct 31 at Bucklin

Kensington-Thunder Ridge (11-2) Sep 06 at Mankato-Rock Hills Sep 13 Pike Valley Sep 20 at Logan-Palco Sep 27 at Beloit St. John’s-Tipton Oct 04 Natoma Oct 11 Stockton Oct 18 at Cheylin Oct 25 at Northern Valley Oct 31 OPEN

Kiowa-South Barber (7-3) Sep 06 at Pratt-Skyline Sep 13 at South Haven Sep 20 Shattuck (Okla.)

Sep 27 at Stafford Oct 04 Macksville Oct 11 at Caldwell Oct 18 Argonia-Attica Oct 25 at Norwich Oct 31 Cunningham

Leroy-Southern Coffey Co. (1-8) Sep 06 Burlingame Sep 13 at Lebo Sep 20 Marais des Cygnes Valley Sep 27 Pleasanton Oct 04 at Elk Valley Oct 11 Chetopa Oct 18 at Baileyville B&B Oct 25 at Colony-Crest Oct 31 Waverly

Logan-Palco (2-7) Sep 06 at Tescott Sep 13 Weskan Sep 20 Thunder Ridge Sep 27 at Northern Valley Oct 04 Sunrise Christian Academy Oct 11 Wheatland-Grinnell Oct 18 at Beloit St. John’s-Tipton Oct 25 Natoma Oct 31 at Stockton

Moscow (5-4) Sep 06 Balko (Okla.)

Sep 13 at Satanta Sep 20 Deerfield Sep 27 Tribune-Greeley Co. Oct 04 at Ingalls Oct 11 Bucklin Oct 18 at Ashland Oct 25 at Fowler Oct 31 Rolla

Natoma (3-6) Sep 06 at Sylvan-Lucas Unified Sep 13 Tescott Sep 20 Wilson Sep 27 Stockton Oct 04 at Thunder Ridge Oct 11 at Northern Valley Oct 18 OPEN Oct 25 at Logan-Palco Oct 31 Beloit St. John’s-Tipton

Norwich (2-7) Sep 06 South Haven Sep 13 at Oxford Sep 20 Argonia-Attica Sep 27 at Pretty Prairie Oct 04 at Cunningham Oct 11 Goessel Oct 18 at Stafford Oct 25 South Barber Oct 31 at Caldwell

Otis-Bison (9-2) Sep 06 at St. John Sep 13 at Central Plains Sep 20 Hoxie Sep 27 Pratt-Skyline Oct 04 at Dighton Oct 11 at Victoria Oct 18 Western Plains Oct 25 at Wilson Oct 31 Sylvan-Lucas Unified

Randolph-Blue Valley (4-5) Sep 06 Flint Hills Christian Sep 13 at Linn Sep 20 Marmaton Valley Sep 27 at Veritas Christian Oct 04 Frankfort Oct 11 at Beloit St. John’s-Tipton Oct 18 Hanover Oct 25 Axtell Oct 31 at Baileyville B&B

Ransom-Western Plains/Healy (2-6) Sep 06 at Triplains-Brewster Sep 13 Golden Plains Sep 20 at Weskan Sep 27 OPEN Oct 04 at Wilson Oct 11 Sylvan-Lucas Unified Oct 18 at Otis-Bison Oct 25 Victoria Oct 31 at Dighton

Rexford-Golden Plains (2-7) Sep 06 Quinter Sep 13 at Western Plains Sep 20 at Tribune-Greeley Co. Sep 27 Weskan Oct 04 at Cheylin Oct 11 Triplains-Brewster Oct 18 at Wallace Co. Oct 25 Wheatland-Grinnell Oct 31 Northern Valley

Rolla (7-3) Sep 06 Tyrone (Okla.)

Sep 13 Deerfield Sep 20 at Goodwell (Okla.)

Sep 27 at South Gray Oct 04 Fowler Oct 11 Ashland Oct 18 at Ingalls Oct 25 Bucklin Oct 31 at Moscow

Sharon Springs-Wallace County (10-1) Sep 06 Dighton Sep 13 at Hoxie Sep 20 Triplains-Brewster Sep 27 at Cheylin Oct 04 vs. Hanover (Sat at Natoma) Oct 11 at Tribune-Greeley Co. Oct 18 Golden Plains Oct 25 at Weskan Oct 31 Wheatland-Grinnell

Stafford (6-3) Sep 06 Central Plains Sep 13 Burrton Sep 20 at Hutch Central Christian Sep 27 South Barber Oct 04 at Caldwell Oct 11 at Argonia-Attica Oct 18 Norwich Oct 25 at Cunningham Oct 31 OPEN

Stockton (4-5) Sep 06 at Hill City Sep 13 WaKeeney-Trego Sep 20 Beloit St. John’s-Tipton Sep 27 at Natoma Oct 04 at Osborne Oct 11 at Thunder Ridge Oct 18 Northern Valley Oct 25 OPEN Oct 31 Logan-Palco

Sylvan-Lucas Unified (4-5) Sep 06 Natoma Sep 13 Lincoln Sep 20 at Atwood-Rawlins Co. Sep 27 at Solomon Oct 04 Victoria Oct 11 at Western Plains Oct 18 Wilson Oct 25 Dighton Oct 31 at Otis-Bison

Tescott (1-8) Sep 06 Logan-Palco Sep 13 at Natoma Sep 20 Burrton Sep 27 Wilson Oct 04 at Goessel Oct 11 Chase Oct 18 at White City Oct 25 Hope Oct 31 at Southern Cloud

Tribune-Greeley County (0-9) Sep 06 Hoxie Sep 13 at Dighton Sep 20 Golden Plains Sep 27 at Moscow Oct 04 at Wheatland-Grinnell Oct 11 Sharon Springs-Wallace Co. Oct 18 at Triplains-Brewster Oct 25 Cheylin Oct 31 Weskan

Victoria (6-4) Sep 06 Macksville Sep 13 at St. John Sep 20 Ness City Sep 27 at Central Plains Oct 04 at Sylvan-Lucas Unified Oct 11 Otis-Bison Oct 18 at Dighton Oct 25 at Western Plains Oct 31 Wilson

Waverly (9-1) Sep 06 Lebo Sep 13 at Hartford Sep 20 Yates Center Sep 27 at Marais des Cygnes Valley Oct 04 Colony-Crest Oct 11 OPEN Oct 18 at Elk Valley Oct 25 Chetopa Oct 31 at Southern Coffey Co.

Weskan (8-2) Sep 06 OPEN Sep 13 at Logan-Palco Sep 20 Western Plains Sep 27 at Golden Plains Oct 04 Triplains-Brewster Oct 11 Cheylin Oct 18 at Wheatland-Grinnell Oct 25 Sharon Springs-Wallace Co. Oct 31 at Tribune-Greeley Co.

White City (2-7) Sep 06 at Peabody-Burns Sep 13 Solomon Sep 20 Little River Sep 27 Hope Oct 04 at Southern Cloud Oct 11 at Burrton Oct 18 Tescott Oct 25 at Goessel Oct 31 Chase

Wilson (3-6) Sep 06 at Chase Sep 13 Kinsley Sep 20 at Natoma Sep 27 at Tescott Oct 04 Western Plains Oct 11 Dighton Oct 18 at Sylvan-Lucas Unified Oct 25 Otis-Bison Oct 31 at Victoria

Winona-Triplains/Brewster (2-7) Sep 06 Western Plains (W) Sep 13 at Northern Valley Sep 20 at Wallace Co. Sep 27 Wheatland-Grinnell (B) Oct 04 at Weskan Oct 11 at Golden Plains Oct 18 Tribune-Greeley Co. (W) Oct 25 at Heartland Christian Oct 31 Cheylin (B)

8-MAN I SCHEDULES

(continued from previous page)

8-MAN II SCHEDULES

Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

Page 89

COLLEGE

table of contents

KANSAS COLLEGE SCHEDULES 2013 Kansas State University Aug 30 North Dakota State Sep 07 Louisiana-Lafayette Sep 14 Massachusetts Sep 21 at Texas Oct 05 at Oklahoma State Oct 12 Baylor Oct 26 West Virginia Nov 02 Iowa State Nov 09 at Texas Tech Nov 16 TCU Nov 23 Oklahoma Nov 30 at Kansas

University of Kansas Sep 07 South Dakota Sep 14 at Rice Sep 21 Louisiana Tech Oct 05 Texas Tech Oct 12 at TCU Oct 19 Oklahoma Oct 26 Baylor Nov 02 at Texas Nov 09 at Oklahoma State Nov 16 West Virginia Nov 23 at Iowa State Nov 30 Kansas State

Emporia State University Sep 05 at Fort Hays State Sep 12 Nebraska-Kearney Sep 21 at Central Oklahoma Sep 28 Northeastern State Oct 05 at Lincoln (MO) Oct 12 Southwest Baptist Oct 19 at Lindenwood Nov 02 at Missouri Western Nov 09 Northwest Missouri Nov 16 Washburn

Fort Hays State University Sep 05 Emporia State Sep 14 at Washburn Sep 21 Northwest Missouri State Sep 28 at Missouri Western Oct 05 William Jewell Oct 12 at Lindenwood Oct 19 Southwest Baptist Oct 26 at Lincoln (MO) Nov 02 SD School of Mines Nov 09 at Central Missouri Nov 16 Nebraska-Kearney

Pittsburg State University Sep 07 Northeastern State Sep 14 at Central Oklahoma Sep 21 Southwest Baptist Sep 28 at Lincoln (MO) Oct 05 Abilene Christian Oct 12 at Central Missouri Oct 19 at NW Missouri (Arrowhead) Oct 26 at Missouri Western Nov 02 Northwestern Oklahoma Nov 09 at Lindenwood Nov 16 Missouri Southern

Washburn University Sep 05 at Nebraska-Kearney Sep 14 Fort Hays State Sep 21 at Northeastern State Sep 28 Central Oklahoma Oct 05 at Southwest Baptist Oct 12 Lincoln Oct 17 Fort Valley State Oct 26 Lindenwood Nov 02 at NW Missouri State Nov 09 Missouri Western Nov 16 at Emporia State

Baker University Sep 07 Ottawa Sep 14 at Saint Mary Sep 21 at Benedictine Sep 28 Avila Oct 05 MidAmerica Nazarene Oct 12 at Culver-Stockton Oct 19 Central Methodist Oct 26 at Missouri Valley Nov 02 Evangel Nov 09 at Graceland Nov 16 Peru State

Benedictine College Aug 31 Briar Cliff Sep 14 at Friends Sep 21 Baker Sep 28 at Peru State Oct 05 Graceland Oct 12 at Avila Oct 19 MidAmerica Nazarene Oct 26 at Culver-Stockton Nov 02 Central Methodist Nov 09 at Missouri Valley Nov 16 at Evangel

Bethany College Sep 07 at SW Assemblies of God Sep 14 Avila Sep 21 Ottawa Sep 28 at Saint Mary Oct 05 Sterling Oct 12 at Southwestern Oct 19 Kansas Wesleyan Oct 26 Friends Nov 02 at Tabor Nov 09 McPherson Nov 16 at Bethel

Bethel College Aug 31 Haskell Indian Nations Sep 14 Central Methodist Sep 21 at McPherson Sep 28 at Ottawa Oct 05 Saint Mary Oct 12 Sterling Oct 19 at Southwestern Oct 26 at Kansas Wesleyan Nov 02 Friends Nov 09 at Tabor Nov 16 Bethany

Friends University Sep 07 Doane Sep 14 Benedictine Sep 21 at Sterling Sep 28 Southwestern Oct 05 at Kansas Wesleyan Oct 12 McPherson Oct 19 Tabor Oct 26 at Bethany Nov 02 at Bethel Nov 09 Ottawa Nov 16 at Saint Mary

Kansas Wesleyan University Sep 07 at Hastings (NE) Sep 14 Evangel Sep 21 at Southwestern Sep 28 McPherson Oct 05 Friends Oct 12 at Tabor Oct 19 at Bethany Oct 26 Bethel Nov 02 at Ottawa Nov 09 Saint Mary Nov 16 Sterling

McPherson College Aug 31 Bacone Sep 14 Graceland Sep 21 Bethel Sep 28 at Kansas Wesleyan Oct 05 Ottawa Oct 12 at Friends Oct 19 at Saint Mary Oct 26 Tabor Nov 02 Sterling Nov 09 at Bethany Nov 16 at Southwestern

MidAmerica Nazarene Sep 14 at Tabor Sep 21 at Missouri Valley Sep 28 at Evangel Oct 05 at Baker Oct 12 Peru State Oct 19 at Benedictine Oct 26 at Avila Nov 02 Graceland Nov 09 Culver-Stockton Nov 16 Central Methodist

Ottawa University Sep 07 at Baker Sep 14 Missouri Valley Sep 21 at Bethany Sep 28 Bethel Oct 05 at McPherson Oct 12 Saint Mary Oct 19 at Sterling Oct 26 Southwestern Nov 02 Kansas Wesleyan Nov 09 at Friends Nov 16 Tabor

Saint Mary Sep 07 at Oklahoma Baptist Sep 14 Baker Sep 21 at Tabor Sep 28 Bethany Oct 05 at Bethel Oct 12 at Ottawa Oct 19 McPherson Oct 26 Sterling Nov 02 at Southwestern Nov 09 at Kansas Wesleyan Nov 16 Friends

Southwestern College Aug 31 at Oklahoma Baptist Sep 14 Peru State Sep 21 Kansas Wesleyan Sep 28 at Friends Oct 05 at Tabor Oct 12 Bethany Oct 19 Bethel Oct 26 at Ottawa Nov 02 Saint Mary Nov 09 at Sterling Nov 16 McPherson

Sterling College Sep 07 at Panhandle State (OK) Sep 14 Culver-Stockton Sep 21 Friends Sep 28 Tabor Oct 05 at Bethany Oct 12 at Bethel Oct 19 Ottawa Oct 26 at Saint Mary Nov 02 at McPherson Nov 09 Southwestern Nov 16 at Kansas Wesleyan

Tabor College Sep 07 at Nebraska Wesleyan Sep 14 MidAmerica Nazarene Sep 21 Saint Mary Sep 28 at Sterling Oct 05 Southwestern Oct 12 Kansas Wesleyan Oct 19 at Friends Oct 26 at McPherson Nov 02 Bethany Nov 09 Bethel Nov 16 at Ottawa

Butler CC Aug 24 Dodge City Aug 31 at Blinn (TX) Sep 07 at Fort Scott Sep 14 Independence Sep 21 Highland Sep 28 at Air Force Prep Oct 05 at Garden City Oct 12 BYE Oct 19 at Coffeyville Oct 26 Hutchinson

Coffeyville CC Aug 24 Hutchinson Aug 31 at Trinity Valley (TX) Sep 07 Metro State Sep 14 Fort Scott Sep 21 at Independence Sep 28 BYE Oct 05 at Highland Oct 12 at Dodge City Oct 19 Butler Oct 26 Garden City

Dodge City CC Aug 24 at Butler Aug 31 Kilgore Sep 07 at Highland Sep 14 Hutchinson Sep 21 Fort Scott Sep 28 at Independence Oct 05 BYE Oct 12 Coffeyville Oct 19 Garden City Oct 26 at Air Force Prep

Fort Scott CC Aug 24 Highland Aug 31 at Tyler (TX) Sep 07 Butler Sep 14 at Coffeyville Sep 21 at Dodge City Sep 28 Garden City Oct 05 Independence Oct 12 BYE Oct 19 at Hutchinson Oct 25 at Arkansas Baptist

Garden City CC Aug 24 Independence Aug 31 at Cisco (TX) Sep 07 at Hutchinson Sep 14 BYE Sep 21 Air Force Prep Sep 28 at Fort Scott Oct 05 Butler Oct 12 Highland Oct 19 at Dodge City Oct 26 at Coffeyville

Highland CC Aug 24 at Fort Scott Aug 31 NE Oklahoma A&M Sep 07 Dodge City Sep 15 Midland Lutheran Sep 21 at Butler Sep 28 at Hutchinson Oct 05 Coffeyville Oct 12 at Garden City Oct 19 BYE Oct 26 Independence

Hutchinson CC Aug 24 at Coffeyville Aug 31 Navarro (TX) Sep 07 Garden City Sep 14 at Dodge City Sep 21 BYE Sep 28 Highland Oct 05 at Air Force Prep Oct 12 at Independence Oct 19 Fort Scott Oct 26 at Butler

Independence CC Aug 24 at Garden City Aug 31 Southeast Texas Prep Sep 07 at Arkansas Baptist Sep 14 at Butler Sep 21 Coffeyville Sep 28 Dodge City Oct 05 at Fort Scott Oct 12 Hutchinson Oct 19 BYE Oct 26 at Highland

Family Tradition PAGE 90

K-State/KU Preview

PAGE 91

DII Previews

PAGE 92

NAIA Previews

PAGE 93

JUCO Previews

PAGE 96

Proudly Supporting Our Area Schools HUTCHINSON MCPHERSON NICKERSON INMAN LINDSBORG PLEASANTVIEW YODER

Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

Page 90

For Dreilings, winning is a family tradition

■ By Tom Witherspoon For Kansas Pregame

Hutchinson High football coach Randy Dreiling has missed just one Pitt State game since 2010, which was his son Nate’s red-shirt freshman season as a linebacker for the Gorillas. Every weekend in the fall, Randy coaches the Salthawks on Friday night somewhere in south-central Kansas, then early Saturday morning drives to southeast Kansas or somewhere in MIAA country in Missouri to watch Nate and the Gorillas.

He missed that one game for a good reason. While Nate was winning a first-round home playoff game against Washburn in 2011, Randy was in Emporia coaching the Salthawks to their seventh state championship in eight seasons.

Nate follows the Salthawks just as loyally as Randy follows Pitt. Though Nate cannot make it to the games, he watches them live online. Just like his dad, he’s missed one game, Hutch’s state game against Blue Valley in 2011 while he was on the field against Washburn.

But each would gladly miss again.

Missing means Pitt State would be back in the playoffs, Hutch back in the state championship game. That is the only way their schedules overlap.

After losing the Class 6A state title game last season to Shawnee Mission West, 19-14, Randy remains as determined as ever to bring another title to Hutchinson in 2013. Emotionally, he is as invested in Pitt State returning to the playoffs to make its own run.

“Last year was a tough year,” Randy says of Pitt State’s 7-3 campaign in 2012, in which Missouri Western embarrassed the Gorillas, 63-14, “after they’ve gone to the national championship game (in 2011). It was a huge ride, such fun. Last year to not make the playoffs, it was a disappointment. Once you’ve been a part of that, it’s tough the next year to not have it. I think it’s going to motivate the guys who were there the last two years.”

Hutchinson is licking its own wounds, after not winning the state championship for only the second season since 2004.

At the end of the final day of summer football camp in mid-July, Randy told his players that it was time for the program to get back to playing the game like the Salthawks did in 2009, when they won their state-record sixth consecutive state championship.

That seems unrealistic to someone outside the program; the 2009 team was supremely talented. But Nate believes his dad is right. “Maybe not from a talent aspect,” Nate says of Hutch getting back to the way things used to be, “but the mentality. They can definitely get back to that.”

From 2006 to 2009, Hutchinson trailed once in the state playoffs. ONCE. Relative to that unbelievable stretch of football, Hutch is not what it used to be (but who wouldn’t take what they are?).

Last season in the state semifinal against Derby, trailing by one point after scoring a touchdown, Randy called for a two-point conversion in the last minute, which won the game. Nate, on the sideline for the game because Pitt did not make the playoffs, tweeted out his nickname for his dad, “Hurricane,” proud of the type of gutsy decision that, given a different result, say the one Tom Osborne got in the Orange Bowl against Miami, makes

Nate Dreiling (#11) enters his final season as an All-American linebacker for the Pittsburg State Gorillas, while his father, Randy, looks to get the Hutch High Salthawks to yet another state championship game. (Photo

by Matt Gilmore, Kpreps.com)

fans go “hurricane” on talk-radio shows.

Such edge-of-your-seat excitement is not what Hutchinson experienced during its legendary run. And losing a halftime lead, not moving the football on offense, and getting gashed on defense, as occurred to Hutchinson in the title game against SM West, also charted unfamiliar territory.

A 35-10 loss to Salina South in the regular season solidified the new reality that, while still the state’s top program, the Salthawks may not be as dominate as they once were.

During the years before Nate moved on to Pittsburg State, Hutchinson football was a road show. And Pitt was the place where the show made a stop every summer for camp to put on a season preview of their dominance, which bred a degree of familiarity with the place that made Pittsburg State a natural fit for Nate to go as a player. Each June, Pitt State holds the state’s pre-eminent summer team football camp, where eight to 10 teams get together to scrimmage for three days in helmets and shoulder pads under the supervision of the Pitt State football program. Nate attended camp there with the Salthawks during their heyday, and each year Hutch left little doubt with the other attending teams about their chances at winning another title.

Grant Dreiling, one of Randy’s three sons, and the quarterback of the 2007 undefeated team, attended Pitt State camp with Hutchinson this offseason, and on his way down to Pittsburg, he couldn’t help but tweet at Nate, among others, “On my way to Pitt. Doesn’t get any better.

Remember the days when we owned this camp.” (Randy does not tweet.) Suffice it to say that Grant, coaching as an assistant at Shawnee Mission East this season under first-year coach and former Emporia head coach and Hutch assistant Dustin Delaney, got the touchdown-dance gene, while Nate got the more humble hit-’em-in-the-mouth gene, but the point should be well-taken.

As Hutch was rolling to state titles and Nate was rising through the ranks, the Salthawks used Pitt State in June as a launch pad toward Thanksgiving weekend in November.

But before becoming Mr. Highlight Tape at Pitt State, Nate was not always that noticeable while rising through the ranks. Before his senior season in high school, when he would be voted a Kansas Top 11 player, a Colorado State recruiter sat in Randy’s backyard in the “shack,” a gathering place for coaches to watch film and talk about football that Randy and his relatives bricked themselves, and

told Randy that Nate was not big or fast enough for Division I football.

“They said he’s not fast enough to make tackles,” Randy said. “Obviously not,” referring to Nate’s record at Pitt State.

It is an impressive record at a place that has had many impressive players over the years. Nate is a Division II All-American.

He’s already led the nation in tackles in a single season. He’s won a national championship, to go with four high school rings. He makes interceptions and sacks, and causes fumbles. He is beloved by the Pitt State coaches for his attitude and work ethic. The coaches tell stories about how he watches more game film than they do. They are in awe of his playmaking abilities. He is something of a cult hero in Pittsburg. He is the one who brought proud Pitt State, a championship program and perennial national contender which had fallen on hard times, back from the brink. Nate has left his mark in Pittsburg, the MIAA, and Division II. But Division I was hung up on two facts: he weighed 175 pounds as a junior and ran a 4.89 40-yard dash. In its linebackers, Division I wants good instincts, and size and speed. If it errs either way, it goes with size and speed, not good instincts.

“They’ll take a chance on guys with great totals, verticals, strength and speed,” Randy says, having had little success persuading coaches to recruit his players over the years, despite the great successes of his teams. Randy tried to tell the recruiters Nate would get bigger. He did: 195 pounds as a high school senior, 220 early in college, now 230. But he couldn’t sell them speed.

Randy always saw more in Nate than the recruiters saw. In little league, Nate played every position on the field on defense. The opposing coach would spot Nate on the field and holler to his team which side of the ball Nate was on so that they would run the play to the opposite side. “Left side! He’s on the left side!” In high school, Nate played middle linebacker and led the defense. “One of the things that makes me proud is the Pitt State coaches have said they’ve enjoyed coaching him. That he’s a great kid.” Randy has always referred to Nate as a “football player,” meaning he understands the game. He lives on football, just like Randy. He thinks about how plays work.

After the final day of Hutchinson’s own camp in Hutchinson in mid-July, that evening the tape, the lifeblood of the Salthawk program, is already rolling.

Coaches have gathered after practice in the “shack” to watch the end-zone view

of the light scrimmage that was held at the end of practice. Still, inexplicably, barred by the Kansas State High School Activities Association from using shoulder pads at their own camps at home, Hutchinson’s scrimmage had no tackling and the defense only held tackling dummies and halfheartedly rushed at the line of scrimmage. But it was still an opportunity for Randy and the coaches to see how the team lined up on both sides, moved off the ball, and executed a play. It still gave the coaches information they could take back to the players for critique and improvement. “They can watch this on Hudl, right?” Randy asks an assistant running the tape, asking whether the players can watch the tape on their own on that football film website that automatically clips each play and categorizes it according to players’ jersey numbers and makes using and trading tape a click away. “I just have to give them the password,” the assistant answers.

To the Pitt State coaches’ surprise and admiration, Nate asked them early on in his career if he could watch scout-team tape. But look where he’s coming from.

Watching football tape is what they do in Hutchinson.

Nate’s football talent and pedigree are unquestionable, and they surely figure heavily into his future. Having had a red-shirt season to get a head start on his college degree, Nate is set to graduate from Pitt State at the end of the fall semester. He only has to complete his student teaching requirement before he can become a physical education teacher and coach football. He likely will have opportunities to coach at the college level.

But as of now, those are back-up plans.

Nate wants to play football.

A handful of agents have contacted him and given him the standard pitch. After his final college season, when Nate declares for the NFL Draft, they will get his name out there. They will put him on a training regiment. They will prepare him for pro days and the combine. Nate already has started working out with Jake Sharp in order to increase his speed. None of it is far-fetched for the Hutch native who weighed 175 pounds as a junior and did not receive a Division I offer. The MIAA has placed players in the NFL. Randy also takes calls from agents about Nate. “The NFL is looking for players. If he’s good enough, he’ll get a shot. It he’s not, he won’t.” Randy is confused by the fact that such a large number of agents can be out there trying to sign players--how are there enough players to go around in order to employ all of them? “It’s like they’re running around town trying to find stray dogs, and one of them’s Secretariat.”

But for the time being, Nate is intent on another playoff run. “Right now I don’t pay much attention to (the NFL stuff) at all,” he said one afternoon after playing a round at the par-3 golf course in Pittsburg with his friends. There are losses to avenge in 2013, and a championship to chase, a pursuit he became accustomed to playing for his dad at Hutchinson.

And at Hutchinson, they will be striving to reach their untouchable 2009 form.

Nate and Randy will support each other all along the way, though each will gladly give up the opportunity to see a game if it means Pitt is back in the playoffs. Nate has one more year to make his mark.

Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

Page 91

KANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY WILDCATS The Kansas State Wildcats enjoyed one of the best seasons in program history in 2012 finishing 11-2, winning the Big 12 conference championship, earning the first ever number one ranking in the BCS standings and delivering National Coach of the Year honors for Bill Snyder and a trip to the Heisman ceremony in New York for quarterback Collin Klein.

While Klein would finish third on the final Heisman ballot, his senior season will remain one of the greatest in Kansas State history as he showed unparalleled toughness and a combination of running and passing that made the name Collin Klein synonymous with pioneering dual-threat Wildcat signal callers Ell Roberson and Michael Bishop.

Klein completed nearly 65 percent of his 304 passes for 2,641 yards, with 16 touchdowns against nine interceptions while adding 920 yards rushing with an incredible 23 rushing touchdowns.

But those aren’t the only gaudy numbers to graduate from last year’s team. Gone also are Wichita East product Arthur Brown’s 100 total tackles, Nigel Malone and Allen Chapman’s five interceptions each, Meshak Williams and Adam Davis’ 18 combined sacks, Wichita Northwest product Chris Harper’s 58 catches for 857 yards, and Smith Center native Braden Wilson’s four seasons of bruising blocking from the fullback spot where he played in 51 games.

While the loss of that many great players will be difficult for the Wildcats to overcome in 2013, the return of the entire offensive line and leading rusher John Hubert (189 car., 947 yds., 15 TDs) is a good start.

The line will be anchored by junior center BJ Finney, a former walk-on from Andale who is on the Rimington watch list for the award given annually to the nation’s best center. Finney will be joined by fellow Kansans Cody Whitehair (Abilene) and Boston Stiverson (Andover Central). Whitehair is the starter at left guard, while Stiverson saw time at right guard last year and is expected to be able to back up either the right guard or tackle positions.

Right tackle Cornelius Lucas is one of the nation’s best, while right guard Keenan Taylor and left tackle Tavon Rooks return to starting roles this fall. Lucas earned first-team All-Big 12 honors last season while Rooks was honorable mention on what many consider the best offensive line in the Big 12 heading into 2013.

The Wildcats also return talented receivers Tramaine Thompson, Tyler Lockett, and Abilene native Curry Sexton, but the quarterback battle could rage on late into fall camp as Klein’s backup Daniel Sams boasts an athletic skill set and junior college transfer Jake Waters posted staggering passing numbers in leading his Iowa Western team to a JUCO national championship last fall.

As late as the Big 12 media days in the final week of July, Snyder said the two quarterbacks remained “absolutely even” in their quest to take over as Klein’s replacement.

While the offense features significant experience, the defense is without it’s top four defensive linemen, two of the top three linebackers, and two of the top four secondary players.

The Wildcats do return two key pieces of the defense in senior linebacker Tre Walker, an Olathe North graduate, and Junction City native Ty Zimmerman. Both are team captains and will be the undeniable leaders of the Wildcat defense this fall.

Walker was in his third year as a starter since starting two games his true freshman year and 11 as a sophomore, when a knee injury sidelined him after starting the first eight games of 2012.

Walker, speaking at Big 12 Media Days in late July, said he had fully recovered from his injury and said he has been “ready to go since June.”

Zimmerman’s junior season was interrupted by injury as well as he was sidelined for the final two Wildcat regular season games before returning to play in the Fiesta Bowl against Oregon.

If back to full strength, Zimmerman is one of the best safeties in the country and last year had a streak of four games with an interception and finished the season with five total picks, which tied him with teammates Nigel Malone and Allen Chapman for best among Big 12 players.

Zimmerman enters this year on several award watch lists including the Bednarik, Thorpe and Lott IMPACT awards. He was also chosen Preseason All-Big 12 by vote of media members who cover the Big 12.

While the Wildcats will miss the loss of kicker Anthony Cantele to graduation Lockett and Thompson give the Wildcats arguably the best kick and punt returner in the country and special teams is sure to be a vital part of the Wildcats success again this year.

The Wildcats lost two veteran assistant coaches, both former players, in the offseason.

After 11 years (in two different stints between 1999 and 2012) as the defensive ends coach at his alma mater, Joe Bob Clements joined the staff at Big 12 rival Oklahoma State. Also, long-time wide receivers coach Michael Smith accepted a similar position at the University of Arkansas under former Wildcat assistant Brett Bielema.

Both were excellent recruiters who developed some of K-State’s best talent over the last decade.

11-2 in 2012 / 8-1 in conference Big 12 Coach: Bill Snyder (22nd year, 170-85-1) Assistants: Sean Snyder (Associate Head Coach/Special Teams Coordinator/Director of Football Operations); Dana Dimel (Co-Offensive Coordinator/Running Backs/ Tight Ends); Tom Hayes (Defensive Coordinator/Secondary); Del Miller (Co-Offensive Coordinator/Quarterbacks); Andre Coleman (Wide Receivers); Mike Cox (Linebackers); Charlie Dickey (Offensive Line); Mo Latimore (Defensive Line); Blake Seiler (Defensive Ends); Chris Dawson (Strength and Conditioning Coach) Offense: Pro-set Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: 41 Returning starters: 7 Offense, 3 Defense B.J. Finney, OL, 6-4, 303, Jr.; John Hubert, RB, 5-7, 191, Sr.; Tyler Lockett, WR, 5-11, 175, Jr.; Cornelius Lucas, OL, 6-9, 328, Sr.; Tavon Rooks, OL, 6-5, 280, Sr.; Keenan Taylor, OL, 6-4, 290, Sr.; Cody Whitehair, OL, 6-4, 309, So.; Randall Evans, DB, 6-0, 190, Jr.; Tre Walker, LB, 6-3, 225, Sr.; Ty Zimmerman, DB, 6-1, 204, Sr. John Baetz

BJ FINNEY

TY ZIMMERMAN

Photo courtesy K-State Athletics

Photo courtesy K-State Athletics

6-4, 303, OL, JR.

6-1, 204, DB, SR.

UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS JAYHAWKS “I say, look at that pile of crap our there. Are you better than that?”

University of Kansas second year head coach Charlie Weis’ explanation of how he sells potential recruits on playing time was the talk of most sports media outlets in the country for the better part of 48 hours after they were made at Big 12 Media Days in late July, and while his analysis of the team’s 1-11 season may be accurate, don’t think that Weis, often at odds with the press, doesn’t recognize the potential of the Jayhawks and the numerous missed opportunities on the field in 2012.

The Jayhawks lost five games by seven points or less last season, including 25-24 to Rice, 30-23 to Northern Illinois, 20-14 to Oklahoma State, 21-17 to Texas, and 41-34 in two overtimes to Texas Tech. All five of those teams played in bowl games including Northern Illinois who played Florida State in the Orange Bowl. The ‘Hawks also lost only 20-6 to highly regarded TCU. But Weis has no plans to build a career on moral victories and will be expected to translate those close losses into wins this season. The veteran NFL coordinator and former Notre Dame head coach is looking for immediate change and has followed the lead of rival Bill Snyder at K-State by recruiting some of the top junior college talent in the nation.

Weis signed 18 junior college prospects this spring including the nation’s number one JUCO player in defensive tackle Marquel Combs.

Those JUCO players will join four returning starters on defense, including linebacker Ben Heeney, a Hutch High grad and second team All-Big 12 player a year ago, and Olathe North product Kevin Young at nose tackle. Five players with starting experience return on offense.

BYU transfer Jake Heaps is expected to take the reins at quarterback and Oklahoma Sooner transfer Justin McCay, a Bishop Miege product who played for current KU O-line coach Tim Grunhard in high school, could be a top receiving target.

The Jayhawks will rely on one of the country’s top running games featuring returning starters

James Sims and Tony Pierson, among the best the Big 12 has to offer.

KU will need to rebuild the offensive line which suffered significant losses to graduation including McPherson product Tanner Hawkinson and Rossvile native Duane Zlatnik, who both earned all-conference recognition in their final year with the Jayhawks.

1-11 in 2012 / 0-9 in conference Big 12 Coach: Charlie Weis (2nd year, 1-11) Assistants: Jeff Blasko (Tight Ends); Clint Bowen (Linebackers); Dave Campo (Assistant Head Coach-Defense/ Defensive Backs); Tim Grunhard (Offensive Line); Rob Ianello (Recrutining Coordinator/Wide Receivers); Reggie Mitchell (Running Backs); Ron Powlus (Quarterbacks); Scott Vestal (Assistant Defensive Backs); Buddy Wyatt (Defensive Line) Offense: Multiple Defense: 3-4/4-3 Returning lettermen: 35 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 4 Defense Randall Dent, OL, Sr.; Aslam Sterling, OL, Sr.; Tony Pierson, RB, Jr.; James Sims, RB, Sr.; Keba Agostinho, DL, Sr.; Jordan Tavai, DL, Sr.; Ben Heeney, LB, Jr.; John Baetz

BEN HEENEY 6-0, 227, LB, JR.

Photo courtesy KU Athletics

Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

Page 92

EMPORIA STATE UNIVERSITY HORNETS

FORT HAYS STATE UNIVERSITY TIGERS

PITT. STATE UNIVERSITY GORILLAS

WASHBURN UNIVERSITY ICHABODS

Coming off a national championship in 2011, the Pittsburg State Gorillas failed to make the playoffs after a 7-3 finish this past season.

However, the Gorillas enter the 2013 season with key pieces from that championship team remaining on the roster.

All-America linebacker Nate Dreiling returns to lead the Gorilla defense for his senior season.

He posted 83 tackles, 4 sacks and two interceptions last season.

All-America wide receiver John Brown is back as Pittsburg State’s playmaker on offense and on special teams. Brown caught 63 passes for 973 yards and eight touchdowns as a junior.

He also rushed for 202 yards and a touchdown and was the team’s top kick and punt returner.

Anthony Abenoja is back for his second season as Pittsburg State’s starting quarterback.

He completed 169 of 280 passes for 2,330 yards with 15 touchdowns and nine interceptions as a sophomore. Abenoja earned an all-MIAA honorable mention.

All-conference offensive tackle Cody Holland leads a group of four returning starters to the offensive line. Pitt State returns seven starters to the offense overall.

Seven other returning starters join Dreiling on the Gorillas defense, including all-conference safety Jason Peete and all-conference defensive end Joe Uzzel. Peete recorded 45 tackles, including 22 solo tackles, as a sophomore. Uzzel registered 36 tackles, including three sacks and eight tackles for loss, last season.

Pitt State opened 2012 with a 5-0 record, but lost three of its final five games down the stretch to Northwest Missouri State, Missouri Western and Lindenwood.

The Washburn Ichabods will be loaded with experience in 2013 as they return 10 starters on offense and seven on defense. Washburn finished 7-4 last season but failed to make the playoffs.

Senior Kyle Duncan, who was an all-MIAA honorable mention, leads a group of four returning starters to an offensive line that helped the Ichabods score almost 30 points per game last season.

Senior tight end Tore Hurst returns after earning second-team all-conference honors in 2012. He caught 38 passes for 466 yards and three touchdowns.

Wide receiver DaJuan Beard, who started every game in 2011, returns after redshirting last season. Hayden Groves returns at running back after rushing for 882 yards and eight touchdowns in 2012. Running backs Kameron Stewart and Donnie Lockhart also return.

Mitch Buhler is penciled in as the quarterback after passing for 1,732 yards and 16 touchdowns in 10 starts last season. Joel Piper, who started one game last year, and Jerame Littell also are possibilities.

The Ichabod defense returns three players who earned all-MIAA recognition last season, including defensive back Devon Connors and linebackers Bryce Atagi and Willie Williams.

Atagi and Williams return after posting 114 and 77 tackles, respectively, last season. Connors had two interceptions.

Junior punter Aaron Hummert was honorable mention all-MIAA in 2012.

JORDAN TICE

JOE WINDSCHEFFEL

BRYCE ATAGI

Photo courtesy ESU Sports Information

Photo courtesy Pitt. State Sports Information

Photo courtesy Washburn Sports Information

The Emporia State Hornets enjoyed a breakthrough season in 2012. In Garin Higgins’ sixth season as the Emporia State’s head coach, the Hornets finished 10-2 and earned a win in the Kanza Bowl.

Emporia State won its first eight games last season before dropping two straight to top 15 ranked opponents in Missouri Western and Northwest Missouri State.

“Last year, we had a great group of seniors who provided a lot of leadership,” Higgins said.

“A lot of the players who had been a part of the total process were here to help turn this program around. This year, we want to build off that.

These players understand that the expectation level has risen.”

The Hornets will be without quarterback Tyler Eckenrode, who passed for 3,742 yards and 29 touchdowns last season, but return 20 players who have started at least one game.

All-MIAA wide receiver Ray Ray Davis returns for his senior season after catching 61 passes for 899 yards and eight touchdowns last year. The offense also brings back running backs Jordan Tice and Dozie Iwaugwa and three experienced offensive linemen, including three-year starter Aaron Blount.

Sophomore Brent Wilson and redshirt freshman Corben Jones are battling to replace Eckenrode at quarterback. Wilson appears to have a slight lead after spring ball.

Defensively, the Hornets return six starters, including all-MIAA strong safety Chris Poston and all-MIAA linebacker Jordan Sanders. Tariq Allen is expected to be an impact player at linebacker after transferring. Allen, who previously was with the University of Texas, was rated as the No. 4 high school linebacker in the country

by ESPN in 2009.

Chris Brown has posted a 9-13 record in his first two years with Fort Hays State University.

He took over a program that went 3-8 in 2010 and has increased the Tigers’ win total by one each year. Last fall, FHSU opened 0-4, but finished 5-2.

Even more impressively, he has done it by being average, at best, at quarterback in the MIAA, a conference well known for All-American quarterbacks and offense. In Brown’s two years, three players have started at quarterback and five have been considered the starter sometime during the fall or spring.

This year, quarterback is again a question mark. Treveon Albert entered the program as the quarterback two years ago, but moved to an all-purpose threat in 2012 after a redshirt year.

Albert accounted for 581 all-purpose yards last season, and then moved back to quarterback in the spring. However, it’s unlikely Albert will stay under center in the fall. FHSU could turn to true freshman Abe Clinch or bring in someone from the junior college ranks.

“You want your quarterback to be the guy that leads this team and keeps this team together,” Brown said.

Running back is also a position in flux. Last year, six players had between 45 and 95 carries because of injuries. Andre Smith, who earned All-MIAA honors in 2011, and Ed Smith each suffered early season injuries and took medical redshirts.

Shaquille Cooper moved from defensive back to running back, rushed for 356 yards and led the team in yards per carry (7.6) and all-purpose yards (723). Cooper, though, is academically ineligible for the fall and Andre Smith is not listed on the roster as of late June.

Ed Smith (892 career yards) is expected to be healthy. Tanner Hageman, a steady receiver 10-2 in 2012 / 9-2 in conference / NCAA Division II and also the starting holder, leads the receiving Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association corps after he caught 31 passes for 388 yards Coach: Garin Higgins (7th year, 29-37; 12th overall, and four scores. One of the Brown’s emphases 80-46) Assistants: Matt Walter (OC), Matt Martin, Mike LoPonto is recruiting Northwest Kansas. That has (Co-DC), Bryan Nardo (Co-DC), Nathan Linsey, Maurice already paid dividends with starting offensive lineman Matt Erbert (Ellis), starting kicker Hart, Justin Weser, Lance Uhles, Danny George, T.J. Andrade Drew O’Brien (Hays-TMP) and Zack Gaughan, Offense: Spread Defense: 4-3 a Hays High graduate expected to start at tight Returning lettermen: 33 end.

Returning starters: 7 Offense, 6 Defense Defensively, defensive back Michael Jordan Ray Ray Davis, WR, 6-1, 200, Sr.; Dozie Iwuagwa, RB, Sr.; Jordan Tice, RB, 5-9, 194, Jr.; Aaron Blount, OL, 6-5, is the lone player back on either side of the ball who earned all-MIAA honors last year. An 295, Jr.; Clayton Brown, OL, 6-7, 310, Sr.; Jordan McAhonorable mention selection, Jordan ranked doo, OL, 6-4, 294, So.; Chris Poston, SS, 6-1, 195, Sr.; Jordan Sanders, LB, 6-2, 220, Sr.; Julian Dozier, CB, Sr.; second with 87 tackles. He also broke up three Aaron Mathews, DL, Sr.; Justin Wilson, DL, 6-0, 322, So. passes and two tackles for loss.

Mark Schremmer

7-4 in 2012 / 7-4 in conference / NCAA Division II Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association Coach: Craig Schurig (12ty year, 79-48) Assistants: Rob Robinson (OC), Brock Luke (DC), Eric 7-3 in 2012 / 7-3 in conference / NCAA Division II Eisenbarth, Josh Osborn, Jeff Schwinn, LaRon Moore, Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association Frank Cossen, T.D. Hicks, Kaleb Koch, Jeff Lyster, Coach: Tim Beck (4th year, 26-10) Kaeman Mitchell, David Trupp Assistants: David Wiemers (DC), Steve Rampy (OC), Offense: West Coast-Pro Set Defense: 4-4 Lance Cullen, Ryan Hellwig, Neil Philpot, John Pierce, Returning lettermen: 55 Carl Roth, Steve Wells Returning starters: 10 Offense, 7 Defense Offense: Multiple/Option Defense: 4-2-5 DaJuan Beard, WR, 6-2, 195, Jr.; Tore’ Hurst, TE, 6-2, Returning lettermen: 53 255, Sr.; Matt Kobbeman, WR, 6-1, 185, Sr.; Chris Returning starters: 7 offense, 8 defense Brown, RG, 6-2, 290, So.; Kyle Duncan, C, 6-2, 290, Sr.; Anthony Abenoja, QB, 6-3, 210, Jr.; John Brown, WR, Dylan Ready, RT, 6-4, 295, Jr.; Darlon Hillman, LG, 6-2, 5-11, 171, Sr.; Cody Holland, OT, 6-6, 337, Sr.; Cale 300, Sr.; Brad Gourley, WR, 6-0, 195, Jr.; Mitch Buhler, Karigan, OG, 6-5, 268, Jr.; Luke Rampy, WR, 5-9, 170, QB, 6-2, 205, Jr.; Alec Steuber, FB, 5-11, 205, So.; Jr.; Tyler Smith, OG, 6-4, 291, Jr.; Ollie Venegas, OT, Hayden Groves, RB, 5-9, 185, Sr.; Cameron Jackson, 6-3, 300, Jr.; De’Vante Bausby, DB, 6-2, 164, Jr.; Nate Dreiling, LB, 6-4, 228, Sr.; Will Grissom, DL, 6-5, 289, Sr.; DE, 6-2, 254, Sr.; Devon Cameron, DB, 5-10, 180, Sr.; Willie Williams, LB, 5-11, 205, Sr.; Calvin Kenney, Taye Irvin, DL, 6-1, 327, So.; Jason Peete, S, 6-3, 191, FS, 6-2, 210, Jr.; Bryce Atagi, LB, 5-10, 240, Sr.; Jake Jr.; Keeston Terry, S, 6-3, 198, Jr.; Joe Uzzel, DE, 6-4, Cervantes, DT, 6-1, 290, Sr.; Adebayo Oladapo, DE, 6-2, 233, Sr.; Joe Windscheffel, LB, 6-3, 228, Sr. Mark Schremmer 255, Sr.; Jaime Myers, LB, 5-10, 210, So. Mark Schremmer

5-6 in 2012 / 4-6 in MIAA / NCAA Division II Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association Coach: Chris Brown (3rd year, 9-13) Assistants: Al McCray, Justin Schreiber, Cooper Harris, Justin Iske, Zach Watkins, Richard Gunnels, Steven Dudley, Grant Brown, Layton Hickel Offense: Pro Style Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 6 Offense, 4 Defense Edward Smith, RB, 5-10, 190, Sr.; Tanner Hageman, WR, 6-1, 175, Sr.; Treveon Albert, WR, 6-0, 195, So.; Michael Jordan, DB, 5-11, 190, Jr.; Cameron Owens, P, 5-10, 175, Sr.; Drew O’Brien, K, 6-0, 195, So.; Basil Bandy, DL, 6-2, 235, Sr.; Jarred Stindt, OL, 6-2, 205, So.; Matt Erbert, OL, 6-3, 330, So.; Jesse Trent, DL, 6-3, 270, Jr.; Keaton Callins, WR, 6-0, 200, Sr.; Stephen Marcotte, DB, 6-0, 195, Sr. Conor Nicholl

5-9, 194, RB, JR.

6-3, 228, LB, SR.

5-10, 240, LB, SR.

Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

Page 93

BAKER UNIVERSITY WILDCATS

BENEDICTINE COLLEGE RAVENS

BETHANY COLLEGE SWEDES

Expectations are high at Baker, where Mike Grossner is entering his 10th season.

“I feel like on paper this is one of our better football teams,” he said.. “We still have to put a couple of pieces in there here late in the summer. We always have the same five goals every season, which are to win all of our home games, go undefeated in the regular season, win the HAAC championship, win a playoff game and then win the national championship” Grossner’s squad returns seven defensive starters and five starters on the offense.

“I think the secondary could be one of the best we have ever had,” Grossner said. “Duane Sims is back off of a red shirt, we have added Preston Randolph from Coffeyville Community College who has great length and instincts, and Gunnar McKenna and Mike Stevenson return in the secondary after great 2012 seasons.”

Stevenson earned second-team All-Conference honors a year ago while Gunnar McKenna was an honorable mention All-HAAC selection.

“We have a chance to be pretty darn good this year, but there are a lot of teams in here that are stepping up too. We should be able to compete and make a run at it,” Grossner said. “We have a team that the chemistry is good the leadership is good our focus is on the task at hand and will be from week-to-week. We have a lot of unselfish guys and are willing to sacrifice. I think our offensive line needs to come together and play the right way to be successful.”

Benedictine graduated 40 seniors from their 2012 squad which went 7-4, but 44 lettermen are back to lead the Ravens in 2013.

Veteran coach Larry Wilcox said his team returns a solid core of the offense, along with four starters from the Raven defense.

“We will need a number of new players to step forward at the varsity level,” he said. “A strong nucleus of skill players return on offense as well as three of the starting offensive linemen.

Developing will be the key in the early weeks of the season.”

Benedictine returns senior running back Cameron Fore, a first-team All-HAAC selection last year, along with senior running back Kevon McGrew and senior fullback Brad Lorang.

Senior Bill Noonan is back under center and Jordan Jackson is back for his senior season at wide receiver. David Stochlin and Daniel Jiminez (honorable mention All-HAAC in 2012) are back on the offensive line.

Defensively, the Ravens will be paced by linebackers Ray Gragg and Andrew Jones, cornerback Burl Brisbane and safety Dylan Meisenheimer, an honorable mention AllHAAC selection last year.

With 28 lettermen returning, Bethany coach Manny Matsakis believes his team is poised for a good season.

The Swedes went 4-7 last year and they have 10 starters back on offense plus six starters returning to the defense.

“I think we have a good mix of returners and newcomers that will challenge each other and make each other better,” Matsakis said. “We showed measureable improvement during the spring and hope to continue that improvement as the season progresses.”

Junior running back Tevis Linnebur is coming off an 1,175 yard and eight touchdown season that saw him earn first-team All-Conference honors.

“We have a good core group returning who performed well in the spring,” said Matsakis, who is beginning his first year at Bethany.

“They are hard working guys who understand the game and possess a strong desire to be successful. Their leadership will be instrumental in our growth throughout the year.”

8-3 in 2012 / 7-2 in conference / NAIA Heart of America Athletic Conference Coach: Mike Grossner (10th year, 54-42) Assistants: Jason Thoren, Miguel Regalado, Kendall Bradley, Bruce Young, Jerry Aligo, Caleb Blakesley Offense: Pro Style Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 33 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 7 Defense Gunnar McKenna, S, Jr.; Preston Schenck, S, Jr.; Mike Stevenson, CB, Jr.; Josh Fairley, CB; Bryan Williams, P, Sr.; Myron Tipton, LS. Melanie McGee

7-4 in 2012 / 5-4 in conference / NAIA Heart of America Athletic Conference Coach: Larry Wilcox (34th year, 236-130) Assistants: Charles Gantenmeyer, Dennis Murphy, Fran Johnson, George Papageorgiou, Tod Stammers, Tyler Lueckenhoff, Nick Stillwell, Ryan Kelly, Mike Kersley, Will Finley, Scott Strenk Offense: Pro I Defense: Multiple Returning lettermen: 44 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 4 Defense Bill Noonan, QB, Sr.; Cameron Fore, RB, Sr.; Kevon McGrew, RB, Sr.; Brad Lorang, FB, Sr.; Jordan Jackson, WR, Sr.; David Stochlin, C, Jr.; Daniel Jiminez, OG, Sr.; Ray Gragg, LB; Andrew Jones, LB; Burl Brisbane, CB; Dylan Meisenheimer, S, Sr. Melanie McGee

KANSAS WESLEYAN UNIV. COYOTES

MCPHERSON COLLEGE BULLDOGS

MIDAMERICA NAZARENE PIONEERS

Veteran coach Dave Dallas has 55 lettermen returning from a 6-5 squad, which should set the Coyotes up for another successful season.

Nine starters are back on the Kansas Wesleyan defense, including first-team All-KCAC linebacker Brady Harwell. The senior finished with 125 tackles last year, an average of 11.4 per game. Senior defensive back Kelton Reed returns after earning second-team All-KCAC honors and a national defensive player of the week award as a junior.

Defensive back Mark Porras and defensive lineman Devan Atkinson also earned honorable mention All-KCAC honors last season. The Coyotes also have senior linemen Christian Walker and Connor Steinman and senior linebacker Evan Umstead back to lead a veteran defense.

Offensively, lineman Sean Grove and receiver Zach McClain are the only first-team AllKCAC players returning, but senior quarterback Trey Dallas, senior linemen Daniel Colli and Jason Johnstad all earned honorable mention All-Conference nods a year ago. McClain is already the KWU all-time leader in receiving yards and he is easily within striking distance of the school records for career receptions and touchdowns.

Senior Lee Stewart is back after being named first-team All-KCAC at kick returner and junior kicker Terry Stecker was an honorable mention All-KCAC honoree in 2012.

Second-year coach Pete Sterbick believes his Bulldog squad has a chance to take a step forward this season. Thirty lettermen return from a team that went 4-5 and was first in the KCAC in total defense a year ago.

“We were number 10 in the NAIA in total defense last fall, and with nine starters back, we will rely heavily on our defense, Sterbick said.

“We have a chance to be improved because of increased depth and familiarity with our system but we need to create more turnovers.”

The Bulldogs return eight starters on defense, including second-team All-KCAC lineman Chris Ellison. Three defensive backs and three linebackers are also back, plus defensive lineman Brian Gahagan.

Offensively, Sterbick’s squad must find a new quarterback, but McPherson returns three offensive linemen and two running backs with starting experience – Terrance Jones and Havelock Pomele.

“We have good depth at running back and have more quality across the board at wide receiver than last year,” Sterbick said. “We have to decrease our turnovers to increase our wins.

The Bulldogs open their season Aug. 31 against Bacone College.

The Pioneers will need to replace several All-Conference performers from last year’s 8-3 squad, including HAAC Offensive MVP Sean Ranesburg, but coach Jonathan Quinn has nine All-Conference players back in the lineup.

First-team All-HAAC running back Greg Gates is back for his senior season after running for 1,413 yards and 16 touchdowns in 2012.

The Pioneer offense returns three other starters in receiver LaDon Hudson and linemen Ernest Grayer III and Gussie Lane III. Hudson caught 30 passes for 487 yards and 11 touchdowns while earning second-team All-HAAC honors.

Grayer and Lane were both honorable mention All-Conference selections.

On defense, Mid-America Nazarene has first-team All-Conference linebacker Joe Camacho (83 tackles in 2012) and first-team All-Conference defensive back Kamaron Riley returning to the lineup. Defensive linemen Demarco Kemp, Mason Matthews and Kyle Pacheco were also All-Conference honorees last year while linebacker Matt Cobb is back after finishing with 42 tackles and four fumble recoveries a year ago.

The Pioneers will open their season Sept. 14 at Tabor and the first four games will be played on the road. Mid-America Nazarene’s home opener is set for Oct. 12 against Peru State and the Pioneers will play their final three regular season games at home.

6-5 in 2012 / 5-3 in conference / NAIA Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference Coach: Dave Dallas (16th year, 90-72; 24th year overall, 128-111-1 overall) Returning lettermen: 55 Returning starters: 2 Offense, 9 Defense Sean Grove, OL, 6-1, 260, Sr.; Brady Harwell, LB, 6-2, 240, Sr.; Zach McClain, WR, 5-10, 170, Sr.; Lee Stewart, WR, 6-0, 185, Sr.; Marc Porras, DB, 5-9, 180, Sr.; Kelton Reed, DB, 5-9, 180, Sr.; Devan Atkinson, DL, 6-2, 260, Jr.; Daniel Colli, OL, 6-1, 170, Sr.; Trey Dallas, QB, 6-2, 200, Sr.; Jason Johnstad, OL, 6-3, 290, Sr.; Terry Stecker, K, 5-7, 195, Jr.; Connor Steinman, DL, 6-2, 280, Sr.; Christian Walker, DL, 6-0, 230, Sr.; Evan Umstead, LB, 5-9, 220, Sr. Melanie McGee

4-5 in 2012 / 4-4 in conference / NAIA Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference Coach: Pete Sterbick (2nd year, 4-5) Assistants: Steve Fox, Quadderrick Sanders, Adam Dutcher, Justin Van Houten, E.J. Peterson Offense: Multiple Spread Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: 30 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 8 Defense Havelock Pomele, RB, 5-8, 265, Sr.; D’Andre Sampson, DB, 6-2,210, Sr.; Chris Ellison, DE, 6-5, 260, Sr.; Terrance Jones, RB, 5-9, 195, Jr.; Paul Rotering, TE/P, 6-4, 240, Sr.; Trea Lott, DB, 6-0, 185, Jr.; Phillip Wilson, DB, 5-9, 175, Sr.; Tyler Bruton, LB, 5-11, 210, Sr.; Cole Long, LB, 6-1, 220, Sr.; Micah Roehl, LB, 6-0, 230, Sr.; James Temaat, OL, 6-3, 255, Sr.; Heath Hewitt, OL, 6-2, 265, Sr.; Brian Gahagan, DL, 6-0, 285, Jr. Melanie McGee

FRIENDS UNIVERSITY FALCONS

Falcon coach Monty Lewis is excited about the 2013 season, as his team returns a solid core on both sides of the ball.

“I believe we have the championship talent again with our starters,” he said. “But we don’t have championship depth. We will need to look towards the fall recruiting class to help.”

Friends has several experienced players back on a defense that has been rated first in the KCAC eight of the past 10 years.

“Defensively, linebacker Marcus Carter is one of the best at his position in the entire country.

Casey Baliel is a veteran all-KCAC performer,” Lewis said. “Our secondary appears loaded with talent; all-KCAC safety Cody Lenhart returns with starting cornerback Sequente Marks. The biggest impact defensively was the move we made with Derek Racette from quarterback to safety. The line is anchored by two all-KCAC performers Josh Hicks and Mason Pauly, who returns from an injury redshirt in 2012.”

Friends returns All-Conference players Thomas Hankerson and Nehemiah Scott to pace the offense along with Nate Thompson, Courtlin 4-7 in 2012 / 2-7 in conference / NAIA Couture, D.J. Crager and Jacob Allen.

Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference James Bauer will move back to quarterback Coach: Manny Matsakis (1st year, 5th year overall, from wide receiver and Sam Bautista moves 30-26) back from the defensive line to his natural tight Assistants: Steve Tapley, Jarrod Wirt, Michael Starkey, end position. Sid Melugin returns at tight end Tyler Gadwood and Chris Allen leads a group of solid receivers.

Offense: Triple Shoot Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: 28 “The only thing that is promised in the fall Returning starters: 10 Offense, 6 Defense is opportunities,” Lewis said. “There are no Melanie McGee positions that are definite right now, they will have to earn their spot.”

8-3 in 2012 / 8-1 in conference / NAIA Heart of America Athletic Conference Coach: Jonathan Quinn (4th year, 40-8) Assistants: Paul Hubbard, Matt Ashley, Kimble Anders, Scott Campbell, Duane Clemons, Rick Fields, Mario Felix, Joe Hall, Lavell Jackson, Frank Raines, Kris Ratzlaff Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: 10 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 6 Defense LaDon Hudson, WR, 6-4, 215, Sr.; Greg Gates, RB, 5-9, 175, Sr.; Joe Camacho, LB, 6-0, 235, Sr.; Kyle Pacheco, DL, 5-9, 250, Jr.; Kamaron Riley, DB, 6-2, 205, Sr.; Demarco Kemp, DL, 5-11, 285, Sr.; Mason Matthews, DL, 6-1, 250, Sr.; Ernest Grayer III, OL, 6-0, 285, Sr.; Gussie Lane III, OL, 6-0, 335, Sr.; Matt Cobb, LB, 6-2, 215, Sr. Melanie McGee

6-5 in 2012 / 5-4 in conference / NAIA Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference Coach: Monty Lewis (10th year, 69-33) Assistants: Matt Welch, Billy Beard, Bill Shaw, Tylor Struckman, Paco Martinez, Jerry Taylor, Christian Trotter Offense: N/A Defense: N/A Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 7 Offense, 4 Defense Marcus Carter, LB, Sr.; Derek Racette, QB/P, Jr.; Joshua Hicks, DL, Jr.; Thomas Hankerson, RB, So.; Casey Baliel, LB, Sr.; Cody Lenhart, DB, Sr.; Nathan Thompson, OL, Sr.; Nehemiah Scott, FB, Jr.; Lewis Taylor, RB, Sr.; Cortlin Couture, OL, Sr.; Chris Allen, WR, Jr. Melanie McGee

OTTAWA UNIVERSITY BRAVES

Seven All-Conference performers return for the Braves, who went 8-3 last season.

First-team All-KCAC receiver Jon Hilliger is one of six offensive starters returning for coach Kent Kessinger.

Receiver Travis Adamson, lineman Austin Britt and tight end Kodee Wood also earned All-Conference honors in 2012.

Defensively, Ottawa returns second-team All-Conference defensive back Dexter Hayes and honorable mention selections DeVontae Corbitt at defensive back and Zach Lanning on the line.

Junior kicker Jeff Stamp is coming off a season in which he was named to the second-team All-Conference list.

The Braves do need to replace KCAC Player of the Year Shane Gimzo. The former Perry Lecompton quarterback transitioned from wide receiver to quarterback for his senior season at Ottawa and led the Braves with 2,177 yards passing, completed 65.5 percent of his passes for 22 touhdowns and added 749 yards rushing with 19 more scores.

The Braves were ranked 16th in the final NAIA poll for 2012, and they were also ranked 16th in the 2013 spring poll.

8-3 in 2012 / 8-1 in conference / NAIA Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference Coach: Kent Kessinger (10th year, 58-38) Assistants: Wendell Smith, Josh Homolka, Robert Messinger, Skyler Parker Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: 40 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 3 Defense Jon Hilliger, WR, Sr.; Travis Adamoon, WR, Sr.; Austin Britt, OL, Jr.; Dexter Hayes, DB, So.; Jeff Stamp, K, Jr.; DeVontae Corbitt, DB, Jr.; Zach Lanning, DL, So.; Kodee Wood, TE, Jr. Melanie McGee

Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

Page 94

SOUTHWESTERN COLLEGE MOUNDBUILDERS

UNIV. OF SAINT MARY SPIRES

STERLING COLLEGE WARRIORS

TABOR COLLEGE BLUEJAYS

With 25 players back with starting experience, it’s safe to say that Southwestern has very few holes to fill for the 2013 season. The Moundbuilders went 4-7 a year ago.

First-team All-KCAC defensive lineman Gerrett Mangrum and second-team cornerback Lorenzo Foutz are back to lead the defense.

Mangrum is one of five linemen with starting experience, while four linebackers and five members of the secondary also spent time in the starting lineup last year.

Offensively, the Moundbuilders bring back the entire starting squad, including senior quarterback Brady May and running backs Tanner Strohl, Anthony Sims and Nolan Davenport.

Jacob Noftsger, Greg York, Matt Thompson and Josh Vasquez are back to anchor the front line while tight end CJ Marple and receivers Ceth Bannister (an honorable mention All-KCAC selection in 2012) and Grant Trembly also return.

Eight All-Conference performers are back for Saint Mary, which finished 6-5 a year ago.

The Spires started conference play 0-3 but battled back to go 6-3 against KCAC foes and they finished the season on a four-game winning streak.

Led by first-team All-Conference receiver Jerrell Young and junior running back Will Ryan, Saint Mary’s offense has five starters back for 2013. Ryan ended the 2012 season by breaking the school record with a 195-yard performance in a 38-23 win over Kansas Wesleyan. He was a second-team All-Conference honoree as well.

Hinson’s squad also returns receivers Ronnie Cooper and Alex Gomes and junior offensive lineman Alan Gudka to the offense. Cooper was a second-team All-KCAC performer during his junior season while Gomes and Gudka both earned honorable mention All-KCAC honors last fall.

Defensively, Saint Mary will be anchored by lineman Vincent Ta’ala and defensive backs Eli Amador and David Harley. Amador and Ta’ala were both second-team All-Conference players in 2012 while Harley made the honorable mention list.

The Spires begin their 2013 season by hosting Oklahoma Baptist University on Sept. 7.

Four All-Conference players and 30 lettermen are back to lead Sterling in 2013.

Sophomore running back Dentton Hudspeth earned second-team All-KCAC honors last season while senior receiver Jordan Coleman, senior tight end Matt Schmidt and senior lineman Kyle Finder all earned honorable mention nods from the conference coaches.

The Warriors have a total of nine starters back on offense, including all four All-Conference players. They also return junior quarterback John Cardona, linemen Mike Walker, Kyle Croak, Zach Beims and Gabe Dierksen.

“We need to take advantage of play inside the 30 and score touchdowns,” coach Andy Lambert said. “We also need to improve on our ability to maintain drives.”

On defense, Sterling has four returning starters – linebackers James Morley and Kris Lehman, defensive back Chris Williams and lineman Adam Guthmiller.

“We must flip our turnover ratio and give up less big plays on defense,” Lambert said. “We are trying to play as well as possible. Our goal is to continue to improve and get as close to our potential as a team as we can.”

Sterling opens the 2013 season Sept. 7 at Panhandle State University in Oklahoma.

Six All-Conference players return for Tabor, which went 8-2 in 2012 and will be looking for more of the same in 2013. Led by KCAC Coach of the Year Mike Gardner and KCAC Assistant of the Year Billy Hickman, the Bluejays have one first-team All-KCAC performer on both sides of the ball.

Running back James Monroe Jr. is back for his senior season after earning a spot on the all-conference first team last year. He is one of seven starters back on the Tabor offense.

Quarterback Simon McKee, receivers Kaden Anderson and Roger Mujica are also back, along with running back Brandon Johnson and linemen David Myers and Andre Watts. McKee was a second-team All-KCAC selection last year, while Johnson and Myers were honorable mention all-conference in 2012.

The Bluejays return six starters on defense, including first-team All-KCAC linebacker Nik France, now a junior. In the trenches, Tabor will lean on sophomore James Shephard and second-team All-KCAC defensive end Terach Antoine. Gardner’s squad also brings back defensive backs Anthony Daniel and JP DeJesus and linebacker Ben Gardner.

In all, Tabor returns 36 lettermen from a group that went 7-1 in the KCAC last fall.

6-5 in 2012 / 6-3 in conference / NAIA Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference Coach: Lance Hinson (9th year) Assistants: Bob Bowen, Jay Osborne, Fran Schwenk, Carlos Perez, Spencer Bonner, Jhon Haehn, Scott Mackey Offense: N/A Defense: N/A Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 5 Offense, 3 Defense Jerrell Young, WR, Sr.; Eli Amador, DB, Jr.; Ronnie Cooper, WR, Sr.; Will Ryan, RB, Jr.; Vincent Ta’ala, DL, So.; Alex Gomes, WR, Jr.; Alan Gudka, OL, Jr.; David Harley, DB, Jr. Melanie McGee

3-7 in 2012 / 3-6 in conference / NAIA Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference Coach: Andy Lambert (10th year, 49-42; 17th overall, 79-85) Assistants: Chuck Lambert, Chase Hansen, Brett Clow, Paul Kempf, Josh Johnson Offense: Spread Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 30 Returning starters: 9 Offense, 4 Defense John Cardona, QB, 6-3, 205, Jr.; Jordan Coleman, WR, 6-5, 200, Sr.; Matt Schmidt, TE, 6-3, 230, Sr.; Kyle Finder, OL, 6-2, 270, Sr.; Mike Walker, OL, 5-10, 270, Sr.; Kyle Croak, OL, 5-11, 245, Jr.; Zach Beims, OL, 6-2, 290, Jr.; Gabe Dierksen, OL, 6-5, 280, Sr.; Dentton Hudspeth, RB, 5-10, 175, So.; James Morley, LB, 5-11, 180, Sr.; Kris Lehman, LB, 5-10, 220, Sr.; Chris Williams, DB, 6-0, 185, Jr.; Adam Guthmiller, DL, 5-11, 220, So. Melanie McGee

8-2 in 2012 / 7-1 in conference / NAIA Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference Coach: Mike Gardner (6th year, 35-18; 10th overall, 60-36) Assistants: Billy Hickman, Steven Miller, Derek Deardorff, Jared Cardarelle, Tim Rozzell Offense: Flexbone Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 36 Returning starters: 7 Offense, 6 Defense Simon McKee, QB, 6-3, 180, Jr.; Roger Mujica, WR, 5-10, 180, Sr.; James Monroe Jr., RB, 5-11, 195, Sr.; Kaden Anderson, WR, 5-10, 175, So.; David Myers, OL, 5-11, 305, Sr.; Andre Watts, OL, 6-0, 250, Jr.; Brandon Johnson, RB, 5-8, 172, Jr.; Anthony Daniel, DB, 6-0, 190, Sr.; Ben Gardner, LB, 5-10, 205, So.; Terach Antoine, DE, 5-11, 195, Sr.; Nik France, LB, 6-0, 225, Jr.; James Shephard, DL, 5-11, 255, Jr.; JP DeJesus, DB, 5-9, 175, Sr. Melanie McGee

4-7 in 2012 / 3-6 in conference / NAIA Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference Coach: Ken Crandall (7th year, 19-43; 17th overall, 41-116) Assistants: Andrew Krause, Jimmie Tagg, Joe Pirillo, Kevin Griffin Offense: Multiple Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: 41 Returning starters: 11 Offense, 14 Defense Brady May, QB, 6-5, 200, Sr.; Tanner Strohl, RB, 5-4, 150, Jr.; Anthony Sims, RB, 5-8, 174, So.; Nolan Davenport, FB, 6-0, 210, Jr.; CJ Marple, TE, 6-2, 200, Jr.; Ceth Bannister, WR, 6-2, 200, Sr.; Grant Trembly, WR, 6-3, 195, Sr.; Jacob Noftsger, OL, 6-5, 280, So.; Greg York, OL, 5-11, 305, Sr.; Matt Thompson, OL, 6-0, 275, Sr.; Josh Vasquez, OL, 6-0, 325, Jr.; Justin Speers, DL, 6-3, 240, Sr.; Gerrett Mangrum, DL, 6-3, 270, Jr.; Connor Seeaba, DL, 6-2, 245, So.; Devin Metzinger, DL, 6-0, 240, Sr.; Trenton Ebersole, DL, 6-3, 225, So.; Paul Mata, LB, 6-0, 205, Jr.; Torbin Harper, LB, 6-2, 220, Sr.; Robert Hernandez, LB, 6-2, 200, So.; Elliot Koester, LB, 6-0, 180, Jr.; Lorenzo Foutz, CB, 5-10, 200, Sr.; Brandon Priest, FS, 6-1, 170, Jr.; Ryan Crowell, CB, 5-11, 175, So.; Davonte Beasley, FS, 5-11, 175, So.; Hunter Bohannan, SS, 5-9, 190, Jr.; Ceth Bannister, P, 6-2, 200, Sr.; Chris Mayer, K, 6-0, 190, Sr. Melanie McGee

Three convenient locations in Wichita:

2707 W. 13th St. N., (316) 942-1443 21st @ Woodlawn, (316) 687-5451 802 N. Ridge Rd., (316) 943-0494

www.johnsonsgarden.com Supporting Friends Falcons!

Home of the 2014 Kansas Shrine Bowl

July 26th, 2014 • Carnie Smith Stadium Pittsburg, Kansas

The Football Capital of Kansas

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 8

Page 96

BUTLER CC GRIZZLIES

COFFEYVILLE CC RED RAVENS

DODGE CITY CC CONQUISTADORS

FORT SCOTT CC GREYHOUNDS

Butler returns just one starter on defense and two on special teams, but no one in the Jayhawk Conference will feel sorry for Troy Morrell’s Grizzlies in 2013.

“Every year at this level, you’ll lose some guys – some years more than others,” Morrell said. “There have maybe been one or two other times like this where we’ve had just one or two starters back. This is a lot different than this time last year, but then again, that’s just the nature of the beast at this level.”

Defensive lineman Owen Williams is the lone returning starter. He tallied 12.2 tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks a year ago. Gabe Luna looks to move into the starting lineup at defensive end this year, while backup linebackers Nick Cook and Dominick White will also see their roles increase.

The Grizzlies’ offense sent five players to Division I programs and also graduated five All-Conference linemen. Redshirt freshman Hunter Vaughn leads the competition for starting quarterback duties, and Ty Suggs is the leading returner at running back after averaging 7.8 yards per carry and scoring seven touchdowns in 2012.

Butler returns three receivers with experience – Dawson Elliott, Michael Glatczak and Trey Hallman. Glatczak is the most experienced return man after returning 20 punts for an average of 17.8 yards last year.

Morrell’s team will host Dodge City in the season opener before traveling to Texas for a matchup with Blinn College.

Second-year Coffeyville coach Aaron Flores is excited about his team, though the Ravens return just five starters and 10 lettermen.

“We are very excited about the 2013 season,” he said. “We feel like we have a strong freshman group coming in that will mesh well with our sophomores. Our goals are to improve every day and win a conference championship.”

Coffeyville returns a pair of defensive backs in Junior Williams and Jamarcus Howard, along with linebacker Kentrell Reynolds to anchor the defense. On the other side of the ball, Hayden Chandler is back up front and Jon Denton returns to his tight end spot.

Just five other lettermen return from the Ravens’ 6-4 2012 squad, but Flores expects his freshman class and other returning sophomores to fill in the gaps.

“How fast our team comes together during camp will set the tone for this upcoming season,” he said. “We need our sophomores to be good leaders and we need our freshmen to step up and play like we feel they can. We must cut down on turnovers and force more on defense.”

Coffeyville opens the season against Hutchinson before traveling to Trinity Valley, Texas, in week two.

Changes abound at Dodge City, where new coach Gary Thomas is looking to build a successful tradition. He’ll start the 2013 season with 20 returning lettermen, including three returning starters on the offensive line. Marcus Gutierres, Josh Hatfield and Jerald Callahan are the only offensive starters back this year while defensive end Jacob Brashers and defensive back Tyrone Wright will be back to anchor the defense.

Thomas, who went 16-4 in two seasons at the College of DuPage (Illinois), is excited to start his first season with the Conquistadors.

“We are looking forward to making Dodge City football relevant in the world of junior college football and building a tradition of long term sustainable success,” he said. “Our team goal for the 2013 season is to put a good product on the football field that our college and community can be proud of.”

During his seven years as offensive coordinator at College of DuPage, Thomas’s squads broke or tied 25 offensive school records, and he’ll look to build a similar tradition in Dodge City.

“Our key to success this upcoming season will be our health,” he said. “We will be talented, but not particularly deep. If we can stay healthy, we will be competitive every week.”

The Greyhounds are coming off a 4-5 season, but six starters, including a 1,200 yard rusher and an All-Conference offensive lineman, return for third-year coach Curtis Horton.

Kareem Are earned All-Conference honors last season and will be joined on the offensive line by classmate Spencer Gatewood. Fort Scott’s offense also returns tight end Zach Gougler, receiver Journell Fondren and running back Stanley Hagan.

Hagan averaged 4.5 yards per carry and finished second in the Jayhawk Conference with 1,232 yards on the season.

Defensively, the Greyhounds return defensive tackle Abu Lamin after a redshirt season.

They’ll need to replace four All-Conference players on that side of the ball.

Fort Scott opens the season by hosting Highland on Aug. 24. The Greyhounds will then hit the road for a trip to Tyler, Texas, in week two before returning home to face defending national runner-up Butler on Sept. 7.

11-1 in 2012 / 7-0 in conference / NJCAA Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference Coach: Troy Morrell (14th year, 137-17) Assistants: Steve Braet, Tim Schaffner, Tony Haynes, Chris Jones, Jordan Abbott, Brice Vignery, Dale Vogel, Cody Oates, Zac Clark, Angel Ortiz, Keith Browning Offense: I-formation Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 17 Returning starters: 1 Defense, 2 Special Teams Owen Williams, DL, So.; Robert Rawlings, K, So.; Ty Suggs, P, So. Melanie McGee

6-4 in 2012 / 5-3 in conference / NJCAA Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference Coach: Aaron Flores (2nd year, 6-4) Assistants: Paige Anders, Jim Henry, Maurea Crain, Jamie Sumner, Dickie Rolls, Ben Barton, Andy Bibb Offense: Pro Style Defense: Multiple Returning lettermen: 10 Returning starters: 2 Offense, 3 Defense Junior Williams, DB, 5-11, 185, So.; Jamarcus Howard, DB, 5-11, 185, So.; Kentrell Reynolds, LB, 6-1, 215, So.; Hayden Chandler, OL, 6-3, 315, So.; Jon Denton, TE, 6-5, 225, So. Melanie McGee

0-9 in 2012 / 0-8 in conference / NJCAA Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference Coach: Gary Thomas (1st year; 3rd overall, 16-4) Assistants: Pat Callahan, Steve Dell, Rusty Morgan, Kurt Landgren, Gunnard Twyner, Bryan Stearley, John Ryan Offense: Multiple Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 20 Returning starters: 3 Offense, 2 Defense Marcus Gutierres, OL, 6-3, 275, So.; Josh Hatfield, OL, 6-2, 270, So.; Jerald Callahan, OL, 6-2, 285, So.; Jacob Brashers, DE, 6-2, 250, So.; Tyrone Wright, DB, 6-0, 200, So. Melanie McGee

4-5 in 2012 / 3-4 in conference/ NJCAA Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference Coach: Curtis Horton (3rd year, 8-9) Assistants: Keith Jordan, Matt Glades, Moses Harper, Richard Johnson Offense: N/A Defense: N/A Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 5 Offense, 1 Defense Kareem Are, OL, 6-6, 320, So.; Spencer Gatewood, OL, 6-4, 300, So.; Zach Gougler, TE, 6-2, 220, So.; Journell Fondren, WR, 6-2, 185, So.; Stanley Hagan, RB, 6-1, 200, So.; Abu Lamin, DT, 6-6, 320, RS Fr. Melanie McGee

GARDEN CITY CC BRONCBUSTERS

HIGHLAND CC SCOTTIES

HUTCHINSON CC BLUE DRAGONS

INDEPENDENCE CC PIRATES

The Broncbusters went 7-4 in 2012, but will have many new faces both on the field and on the sidelines this fall.

Former K-State player Matt Miller is the new head coach, and assistants Jeff Kelley and Joe Gordon are also former Wildcats, giving the staff a distinctly K-State feel. Miller spent the past two seasons as Garden City’s offensive coordinator, helping turn the Busters into one of the top offenses in the nation.

Garden City has four starters back on offense, including tackle Dontavius Blair and running back Tyreck Hill. The Busters have just one defensive starter back, so shoring up that side of the ball is going to be key.

Miller said his team’s main goal is to compete for a Jayhawk Conference title and maintain the offensive explosiveness of past seasons.

The Busters will open their season Aug. 24 against Independence in a brand new stadium featuring artificial turf.

“We’re all very pumped up about the stadium,” Miller said. “I think the excitement is just going to be palpable. It’s going to be tremendous, not only for my program and my players but for the community as a whole.”

The Scotties led in four of their seven losses last year, and second-year coach Ryan Held said his team should be ready to take the next step and finish off those wins in 2013.

“We made a lot of strides in our first year. We had the lead in the fourth quarter or lost the lead in four games that we lost,” he said. “As a whole, we were very competitive in all of our games but one. This year we look to be a lot better in all phases of the game.”

Highland returns five offensive starters and Held expects that unit to make big strides with quarterback Desmond McGhee, tight ends Brennan Boland and Justin Dickey, and linemen Avery Richard and Jeff Travillion leading the way. The Scotties’ new offensive coordinator, former Dodge City head coach Bob Majeski, is installing a new, fast-paced offense, Held said.

Five starters also return to the Highland defense, including all-conference cornerback Contereze Pierce and tackle Tony Tanumai.

“Defensively we will build on our third ranking of defense in the conference and expect to be better,” he said. “Special teams were very poor last year. We have to improve our punt team. We were last in net punting. The field position game last year killed us and we will work hard to fix all those aspects.”

In six years with Rion Rhoades at the helm, Hutchinson has been a perennial playoff contender in the Jayhawk Conference, and the 2013 squad should continue that tradition with 16 lettermen and eight starters coming back from a team that went 9-3 in 2012.

Strong safety Terell Hannah earned second-team All-Conference honors a year ago and is one of five defensive starters back for the Blue Dragons. Defensive end Carnell Simon and cornerback Shattle Fenteng were honorable mention All-Conference selections last year while cornerback Christian Goodlett and linebacker Brock Long also return to the starting lineup.

Offensively, Rhoades and his staff will lean on quarterback Luke Barnes and offensive linemen Terrale Johnson and Jess Westmoreland. Barnes was an honorable mention All-Conference selection as a freshman. Hutchinson’s offense must replace 10 All-Conference players, including four first-teamers, but the Blue Dragons do bring back a total of 16 lettermen.

The Pirates return seven starters from a squad that went 4-5 in 2012, but fourth-year coach Steve Carson said his team will depend heavily on incoming freshmen to fill in the gaps.

“We do not have a lot of returning players, so our freshmen will have to contribute right away,” he said.

Independence’s lone returning All-Conference player is tight end Sean McKissack, who caught 20 passes for 171 yards and two touchdowns last season.

The Pirate offense also brings back running back Dwayne Carter, quarterback Kaylon Cooper, receivers DeVante Clark and Kyle Nitz, tight end Jordan Robinson and linemen Marcus Shearhart and Lampeer Ramsey. That group will lead an effort to improve in a couple of key areas this season.

“We have to be able to run the ball against the top teams in our conference for us to have a chance,” Carson said. “We need to create more explosive plays in our passing game.”

Defensively, Independence returns linemen Richard Dorvilus and Kerry Washington.

7-4 in 2012 / 6-4 in conference / NJCAA Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference Coach: Matt Miller (1st year) Assistants: Jeff Kelley, Joe Gordon, Merci Palaise, Louis West Offense: Spread Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 4 offense, 1 defense Dontavius Blair, T, 6-7, 315, So.; Tyreck Hill, RB, 5-8, 185, So. Melanie McGee

2-7 in 2012 / 1-6 in conference / NJCAA Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference Coach: Ryan Held (2nd year, 2-7; 8th overall, 36-60) Assistants: Bob Majeski, Aaron Arnold, Chance Farrell, Edgard Theliar, Judd Remmers, Ruzell McCoy Offense: Spread Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 20 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 4 Defense Desmond McGhee, QB, So.; Brennan Boland, TE, So.; Justin Dickey, TE, So.; Jeff Travillion, OL, So.; Avery Richard, OL, So.; Contereze Pierce, CB, So.; Marlon Williams, LB, So.; Marcus Smith, DT, So.; Tony Tanumai, DT, So.; Jake Swalley, DE, So. Melanie McGee

9-3 in 2012 / 6-1 in conference / NJCAA Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference Coach: Rion Rhoades (6th year, 44-23; 7th year overall, 51-28 overall) Assistants: Josh Gooch, Dion Meneley, Tyler Brock, Phil Ockinga, Thaddeus Brown, Kevin Starr, Greg Cross, Landon Head, Evan Mateos, Eric Long, Dillon Cypert Offense: Multiple Spread Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 16 Returning starters: 3 Offense, 5 Defense Shattle Fenteng, CB, 6-2, 185, So.; Christian Goodlett, CB, 6-1, 188, So.; Terell Hannah, SS, 5-11, 205, So.; Brock Long, LB, 5-11, 215, So.; Carnell Simon, DE, 6-4, 255, So.; Luke Barnes, QB, 6-2, 210, So.; Terrale Johnson, OL, 6-2, 310, So.; Jess Westmoreland, OL, 6-3, 295, So. Melanie McGee

4-5 in 2012 / 2-5 in conference / NJCAA Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference Coach: Steve Carson (4th year, 8-19) Assistants: Matt Lott, Aaron DeBerry, Adam Kirby, Van Jones, Phil Magro Offense: Spread Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 10 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 2 Defense Dwayne Carter, RB, 5-9, 215, So.; Kaylon Cooper, QB, 6-3, 200, So.; DeVante Clark, WR, 5-9, 160, So.; Kyle Nitz, WR, 5-9, 145, So.; Richard Dorvilus, DL, 6-2, 250, So.; Sean McKissack, TE, 6-3, 245, So.; Lampeer Ramsay, OL, 6-4, 275, So.; Marcus Shearhart, OL, 6-3, 270, So.; Jordan Robinson, TE, 6-2, 185, So.; Kerry Washington, DL, 6-3, 270, So. Melanie McGee

The will to get the work done where it counts!

The weight room is as important to the success of a football team as the practice field and the film room. This issue’s Iron Will features will take a look at some of the state’s strongest players and their work ethic in the weight room. These players don’t just have the will to win, but the will to put in the work in the weight room, and their football program’s are seeing the results. These 13 athletes and their team’s are profiled in a series of features starting on page four.

As the home of the most successful football program in NCAA Division II history, the Pitt State Gorillas, Pittsburg is a football haven. More than just football, Pittsburg also offers excellent opportunities for adult and youth sports. Conveniently located and affordable, Pittsburg and Crawford County, Kansas

“We Have Sports Cornered!�

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