Football
2014
Night
in southern mecklenburg
Football Night in Southern Mecklenburg
Page 2 • FALL 2014 • CAROLINA WEEKLY NEWSPAPER GROUP
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Super 7 1Butler
Football Night in Southern Mecklenburg
The Bulldogs will look to continue their recent dominating ways and this is the season they get back on track – not that they fell too far after reaching the state semifinals last year. They’re big and experienced on both lines, have threats at receiver with Alex Barrow, running back with Benny LeMay and at quarterback with sensational North Carolina commit Anthony Ratliff-Williams. And, with all of their firepower on offense, the defense will be very much improved and a year better. It was weird not seeing them in the top spot last year, but it may be time to get used to seeing them hold it this season.
Charlotte
christian
The Knights are riding a 19-game win streak, which they’ll put to the test right away with an openingnight showdown with public school Class 4-AA champion Mallard Creek. As usual, they’ve frontloaded their schedule and have some extremely taxing challenges with Hoggard, Monroe, Liberty Christian and Lynchburg Christian, who all should challenge for their respective conference titles and is a group that will likely include some state champions. The Knights have won two titles in a row themselves and all bets are they’re going back to the title game this year. It may take a while for them to get it all going, though.
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Charlotte Latin
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Rocky River
The defending Southwestern 4A champions are fundamentally sound and back with a vengeance after their best season to date. Although they’re always good on the ground and on defense and will be exceptionally strong in those areas again, there’s a huge bull’s-eye hanging on their backs for their success last season. The Ravens have all of the talent and experience to repeat as conference champions – and may well do it – but they’re now the hunted.
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Independence
The Patriots suffered through a five-loss season last year – an uncharacteristic off year on paper – but they’ll be back strong in 2014. In fact, with the leadership of quarterback Kelvin Hopkins, a strong run game and weapons at receiver, the usually highflying offense may be even better than last year. And the defense, which sometimes was their Achilles’ heel a season ago, is very good and will be a strength. A conference title isn’t out of reach for this bunch, so ranking them this low may be a mistake.
What’s Inside 20 To Treasure
A staple of the Carolina Weekly Newspapers, the 20 to Treasure is the first of our two annual player rankings for the 2014 season. These are the best individual players in southern Mecklenburg as we see it, but there’s plenty of time for players to stake their cases during the season to make our post-season list. PAGE 4
CISAA Preview Andrew Stark examines what to expect this season from the state’s top private-school league and our staff offers predictions on order of finish and final regular season records. Following the preview, we go in depth on each conference team revealing the
key players for Charlotte Christian, Charlotte Country Day, Charlotte Latin, Providence Day and the Carolina Pride. PAGES 5-10
Brian Chaffin: Big Man on Campus Charlotte Christian’s offensive line is stabilized by Chaffin, a rare four-year starter and a Stanford commit who’s looking to lead the Knights to their third straight state title. PAGE 11
So. Meck 8 Preview Andrew Stark breaks down the So. Meck 8 and provides insight into the second-year conference, which has quickly risen to one of the state’s most competitive
About this section The 2014 Football Night in Southern Mecklenburg was planned and written by the Carolina Weekly Newspaper Groups Sports Staff consisting of Sports Editor Andrew Stark and Sports Writer Hannah Dockery, who also took all of the photographs. Liz Lanier designed and laid out the section, so a special thanks for her hard work and design expertise. Former Managing Editor Mike Parks went the extra mile to assist the Sports Staff in editing pages and was as usual a rock through the process keeping everyone on task. CEO and Founder Alain Lillie assisted Charlotte Conway, Adrian Garson and Laura Smith in selling advertising. Maria www.carolinaweeklynewspapers.com
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There’s no team in southern Mecklenburg that returns more intact and with as much experience as the Hawks, who played in the state championship game last year. Smart and strong-armed, quarterback Daniel Jones is going to have a field day directing this offense with playmakers like Melvin Rouse, Carson Song, Denzel Pearson, John Jennings and Kanyon Tuttle roaming the field. If they can avoid injury – as is the case with most teams but especially with the Hawks – they’re the team who can end Charlotte Christian’s twoyear stranglehold on the NCISAA.
and complete leagues. Our staff also provides predicted order of finish and overall records this season. Following the preview, we break down Ardrey Kell, Charlotte Catholic, Providence and South Meck. PAGES 12-17
Best of the Best We go position by position and break down which teams have the best overall position units and introduce their key players. PAGES 14-15
Stephen Griffin: Big Man on Campus The South Meck safety/quarterback quickly made a name for himself last year when he burst
onto the scene. The Tennessee recruit has his mind set on getting South Meck back to the playoffs this season and going out with a bang in his final year. PAGE 18
Southwestern 4A Preview Hannah Dockery breaks down the traditionally rich Southwestern 4A Conference, home to 10 of the past 14 state champions at football’s highest classification. We also provide predicted order of finish and overall records and take a look at the key players for Butler, East Meck, Independence, Myers Park, Porter Ridge and Rocky River. PAGES 20-22
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Charlotte Catholic
If it feels odd to have the Cougars ranked this low to you – it does to us, too. It may turn out to be a gaffe as they’ll run their famous Wing-T offense and have been nearly unbeatable in conference play for the last decade or so. This year they’ll look a little different with a new coach (Mike Brodowicz) but the results should be the same. The So. Meck 8 is again going to be tightly contested, but with a sound run game the Cougars will again be in the hunt. They’ll finish the season ranked much higher if their defense – in particular the secondary and linebackers – can gel quickly.
Providence
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Coach Justin Hardin has infused a new life into the Providence football program, and Year 2 is when they should take the next step after winning eight games last year. Fifteen starters return, including their leading passer (Caleb York), rusher (Brian Mattar), tackler (Jordan Fehr) and kicker (John Biasucci). The Panthers are poised to challenge for the conference title and with all of their experience returning, they’re the favorites in some people’s eyes.
Jaire Alexander: Big Man on Campus The electric Alexander will line up all over the field for the defending Southwestern 4A champion Ravens, giving opposing coordinators nightmares as they try to slow him down. PAGE 23
Football Schedule
We give fans a week-to-week look at where your favorite team will be playing and who you’ll be rooting for to knock off your rival. The whole season can be found in one spot. PAGE 25
2-Minute Drill We take you behind the scenes with Independence quarterback Kelvin Hopkins, Butler quarterback Anthony Ratliff-Williams, Ardrey
Kell offensive lineman Mason Veal and Charlotte Christian offensive lineman Philip Walton to see what they’re expecting for their senior seasons and give you an inside look into these top college recruits. PAGES 26-27
Team Previews Ardrey Kell………....................………13 Butler………......................................….20 Carolina Pride…….............................10 Charlotte Catholic……....................16 Charlotte Christian….....................…6 Charlotte Country Day.....................7 Charlotte Latin…......................…..….7 East Meck…..........................……..…20 Independence……......................…..21 Myers Park…………..................……22 Providence…………..................……17 Providence Day………........…...........9 Porter Ridge......................................22 Rocky Rive.r..….................................22 South Meck…..........................……17
Special Thanks Hernandez designed ads for the section and Randi Trojan coor- In addition to all of the countless hours our staff put into making this dinated the advertising. Mike Kochy oversaw the distribution. section, we’d also like to extend a special thank you to Charlotte We extend a special thanks to all for their hard work. Christian athletics director John Kasay, Charlotte Christian football coach Jason Estep and Stacy Chaffin, who braved the heat to ensure On the Cover the photo shoot was a success at the Knights’ stadium. The 2014 Cover Boys are (top row, from left) Charlotte Chris- Charlotte Christian is home to the two-time defending state champitian’s Philip Walton, Charlotte Christian’s Brian Chaffin, Ardrey ons and has proved to be one of the state’s best and most consistent Kell’s Mason Veal (kneeling, from left) Rocky River’s Jaire Alex- programs. Holding our photo shoot there was the perfect location to ander, Independence’s Kelvin Hopkins, South Meck’s Stephen catch what we were going for and their professionalism and accesGriffin and Butler’s Anthony Ratliff-Williams. sibility led to the perfect photo shoot with the perfect back drop, making our jobs much easier. CAROLINA WEEKLY NEWSPAPER GROUP • FALL 2014 • Page 3
20 treasure Football Night in Southern Mecklenburg
to
6.Mason Veal
1.Elijah Deveaux
The Charlotte Christian junior running back returns for an encore after blazing a trail of destruction over the Knights’ 2013 opponents. Deveaux already is the Charlotte Christian single-season rushing leader after gaining 1,856 rushing yards – including a schoolrecord 308 yards in the championship game – and 24 touchdowns. With his gaudy stats and powerful 6-foot-1, 200-pound frame it’s no wonder he already has seven offers with many more on the way.
2.Anthony RatliffWilliams How do you stop a quarterback with a rocket arm and a set of wheels that make him the fastest guy on the field? As evidenced by Ratliff-Williams’s 2,362 passing yards and 30 TDs through the air and 1,443 yards and 20 TDs on the ground, the answer is you only can hope to contain the North Carolina-bound RatliffWilliams.
3.Stephen Griffin The University of Tennessee-bound safety is an instinctive ball-hawking defensive back who can single-handedly disrupt opponents’ passing games. He’ll do plenty of that this year, but he’s just as electric on offense where he’ll line up in the backfield and under center for the Sabres.
4.Brian Chaffin One of the rare four-year starters at the esteemed Charlotte Christian program, Chaffin is a master technician who’s made himself one of the best linemen in the nation. The Stanford recruit chose the Cardinal over more than a dozen top programs and is the sixth-ranked center in the Class of 2015 by Yahoo.com.
5.Jaire Alexander A triple threat playmaker, Alexander made a name for himself on the defensive side of the ball where he made 47 tackles and picked off seven passes as a first-time defensive starter. The South Carolina commit is an equal threat on offense at receiver (464 yards) and special teams marvel (700-plus
An immovable force, the 6-foot-5, 295-pound Veal will open holes for Ardrey Kell running backs and protect the passing game all season. The future Tar Heel was recruited by nearly every ACC school and a host of SEC teams and it’s easy to see why he’s ranked N.C.’s sixth overall recruit by Yahoo.com.
7.Adonis Alexander The 6-foot-3, 200-pound Alexander has the body of a linebacker but the quickness and ball skills to be one of the state’s top defensive backs. Although the safety is headed to Virginia Tech next fall, he’ll have his hands in the Patriots’ defensive secondary and in the return game, where he’s an absolute game changer.
8.Benny LeMay In his first full season as a starter, LeMay used his 6-foot, 195-pound frame to make a name for himself. Speedy and powerful, LeMay already has an offer from the Charlotte 49ers after gaining 1,373 all-purpose yards and scoring 24 TDs as a sophomore despite missing two games. A huge season awaits.
9.Daniel Jones The 6-foot-4 senior keeps improving, and with the weapons he has at his disposal he should build on his breakout junior season when he threw for 2,396 yards and 27 touchdowns. A true pocket passer, Jones can make all of the throws and is drawing interest from a number of schools.
10.Kelvin Hopkins Hopkins is the heart and soul of the Patriots’ highpowered offense. The Army commit had a monster junior season, when he threw for 2,724 yards and 29 touchdowns and ran for 579 yards and an additional nine touchdowns. Expect this year to be even better with a full season of starts under his belt and the confidence of one of the state’s most esteemed programs.
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11.Alex Barrow
The Bulldogs’ leading receiver last season, Barrow hauled in 40 passes for 838 yards and 11 TDs despite missing the first three games of the season after transferring from West Forsyth. The Charlotte 49ers commit is more comfortable in the offense this year and is primed for an even more productive season.
12.Philip Walton Another stalwart on the Charlotte Christian offensive line, Walton is built like a mountain standing 6-foot-7 and weighing 260 pounds. As big as he is, the N.C. State commit is agile, running a sub 5-second 40-yard dash. He’ll have a huge impact opening holes for one of the state’s best rushing attacks.
13.Jaquavion Alexander At 6-foot, 219 pounds, Alexander would be as comfortable lining up at defensive end, but he’s got a wrecking ball mentality, runs like a deer and is nimble on his feet. Alexander gained more than 1,000 yards and scored 13 TDs despite missing time with a variety of injuries. He’s back in 2014 and better than ever.
14.Melvin Rouse Rouse is listed as a defensive back, but ran for 162 yards, caught 14 passes for 200 yards and is one of the deadliest return men in the area. He’ll also improve upon his 35 tackles and four INTs as a defender, making him one of the most complete players in the county as a sophomore.
15.Ryan Jones You heard it here first, Jones may not be a household name just yet, but by the end of the year everyone will know the county’s next breakout star. A 6-foot-2, 195-pound safety/receiver hybrid, the sophomore is a budding talent as a hard-hitting tackler and has speed and hands as a wideout. It’s no wonder ACC schools like N.C. State are taking notice of the area’s next big thing.
16.Deonte Henderson
When veteran Providence Day coach Bruce Hardin says Henderson is among the county’s elite defensive backs, you know it means something. And Henderson, a 5-foot-10, 170-pound cover safety, has the game to prove it as he recorded 38 tackles and seven INTs last year and is a dangerous kick returner, too.
17.Zach Gilbert The 6-foot, 241-pound defensive end already has offers from Tennessee, Wake Forest, North Carolina, Florida and the Charlotte 49ers with many more to come. Gilbert has the skills to improve upon the 10 sacks he recorded last year and will keep opposing coordinators up at night trying to scheme to slow him down.
18.Brian Mattar A solid defensive back as well, it’s Mattar’s sub 4.4 40-yard time that makes this 5-foot-7, 155-pound track star excel at running back. He ran for 1,000 yards last year, but will be the key component to how the Panthers’ season turns out. And with Mattar leading the way, Providence will compete for a conference title.
19.Carson Song Song epitomizes what it means to be a two-way player. Possessing maybe the best hands around, Song is equally tough out of the slot and recorded 42 receptions and amassed 613 yards and nine TDs at receiver. A sure tackler, he totaled 63 stops and picked off four passes while showing game-changing return skills.
20.Caleb York In his first season as a starter, the Providence quarterback engineered the program turnaround. A dual-threat, the 6-foot-2, 203-pound senior has a deft passing touch which resulted in 1,740 yards and 13 TDs. He’s not just a pocket passer, though, and ran for 761 yards and eight TDs last year, gaining confidence with each passing game.
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breaking down the cisaa by Andrew Stark andrew@thecharlotteweekly.com
The Charlotte Independent Schools Athletic Association saw a new champion in each of the previous four seasons until last year, when Charlotte Christian went undefeated and claimed the first back-to-back state title in school history, ending a string during which Charlotte Latin (2009), Charlotte Country Day (2010) and Providence Day (2011) each reigned supreme. The Knights (see page 6) carry a 19-game win streak into this year and have a beastly offensive line with Dalton Gouveia, Stanford commit Brian Chaffin and N.C. State recruit Philip Walton opening huge holes for junior running back Elijah Deveaux – a big-time recruit in his own right and Christian’s singleseason rushing leader. Charlotte Christian isn’t one-dimensional, either. An experienced linebacker trio of Connor Maitland, Ryan Gilmartin and Jaylon McClinton will team with a ball-hawking secondary consisting of Trey Linton, Davis Waldrop, Josh Hall and others will make moving the ball against them difficult. So, let’s go ahead and pencil in the Knights to keep their unbeaten streak in tact and cruise to a third state title, right? Not so fast. The Knights are good – really good, in fact – but not without questions. They
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have a new quarterback, new receivers and a couple of holes to fill on the offensive and defensive lines and in the secondary. First in line to challenge them is Charlotte Latin (see page 8), the last conference team to take home a title, but the most experienced and perhaps talented team in the CISAA this year. Daniel Jones keeps getting bigger and better at quarterback. He’s the real deal and with pass catchers Carson Song, Jonathan Jennings and Kanyon Tuttle – along with do-everything super sophomore Melvin Rouse – the passing game is set. The offensive line returns four starters and the running game is in the capable hands of Denzel Pearson. Plus, the Hawks have almost everybody back on defense for a team that played in the state title game last year. The only knock is many of these Hawks go both ways, starting on offense, too. But with playmakers like Rouse, Pearson and Song joining linebacker Hunter Sheridan and linemen Toby Okwara, Tay McMaster and Alex Hanff, it isn’t a bad thing they play so many snaps. The bottom line for Latin is they’re really good and have a good chance to knock Christian down a notch… if they stay healthy. Charlotte Country Day (see page 7) is always well-coached and has a bunch of guys on offense who can hurt you, starting with quarterback Cole Bloomer, running back Sheppard Wilson and receivers Byron Smith and Matt Williams. Three lineman – Nathan Brenner, Jamie Massey and Miles Mayberry – are also back as starters and coach Bob Whitman is
Football Night in Southern Mecklenburg high on a bunch of his newcomers who will fill In the end, I think it’s a two-team race for the out the offense. title and feel Charlotte Christian is still favored While they may be set moving the ball and to win it, but I’m not overly convinced. Many of putting points on the board, the Bucs also are the Latin kids are the same guys who have won set defensively as they return four starters head- three straight lacrosse state titles and they have lined by Williams, Wilson and Richard Coker. a winning pedigree and want revenge from However, as a team they aren’t imposingly big last year’s 48-10 state title game loss. Chances and don’t have much depth so they will need a are these two teams will meet on the field on few guys to have breakout years to challenge Nov. 14 with a state title on the line. But, as for a spot in the league’s top two spots. is always the case in the CISAA, anything can Providence Day (see page 9) may be the dark happen and probably will again this year. horse. They have Julius Felder and Deonte Henderson in their defenHANNAH DOCKERY’s sive secondary and tackle Andrew Stark’s Predicted Order machines Grant Henderson Predicted Order of Finish and Solomon Key anchoring of Finish their linebackers. Those are ) Charlotte Christian Charlotte Christian all huge strengths, and with (7-4, 3-0) (8-3, 3-0) an experienced defensive line, the Chargers appear set on defense. ) Charlotte Latin Charlotte Latin Quarterback John Sch(8-2, 2-1) (8-2, 2-1) weitzer returns and running back Gabe Montgomery is ) Providence Day Charlotte ready to take over the primary role. However, they (5-6, 1-2) Country Day only return three starters on (5-5, 1-2) offense – Schweitzer and ) Charlotte linemen Eric Cal and Ross Country Day Providence Day Vandemore. If the offense (5-5, 0-3) (4-7, 0-3) can get it going quickly, there’s a real chance the Chargers make some noise, ) Carolina Pride Carolina Pride but there’s a lot of turnover (5-6) (4-7) on this side of the ball.
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CAROLINA WEEKLY NEWSPAPER GROUP • FALL 2014 • Page 5
Football Night in Southern Mecklenburg
Photo by Andrew Stark
The Knights have won the school’s first back-to-back football championships and with (back row, from left) Ryan Gilmartin, coach Jason Estep and Connor Maitland and (front row) Trey Linton and Jaylon McClinton among the talented returners, they’ll at the very least contend for their third.
Coach: Jason Estep, eighth season (6022) Returning starters: Offense, 4; Defense, 6 Conference: Charlotte Independent Schools Athletic Association 2013 record: 12-0, 5-0
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The Breakdown Pre Snap Read
The Knights enter 2014 with a 19-game win streak and two consecutive N.C. Independent Schools Athletic Association titles to their name. They’ll have to rely on an experienced defense and one of the best running games around if they want to get back there this year. And, as usual, their defense, particularly the secondary and linebackers, is a huge strength to help keep them on top.
2013 playoffs: Defeated Providence Day, 56-21, in the opening Offense round of the N.C. The strength of the Knights’ success will rely in the Independent running game and in the trenches as N.C. State comSchools Athletic mit left tackle Philip Walton and Stanford recruit cenAssociation Division ter Brian Chaffin will team with Dalton Gouveia, Josh Bryant and some combination of Jack Bennett, Hank I playoffs; beat Bennett and Kennedy Manyka to open holes for junior Charlotte Latin, 48-10, to win their tailback Elijah Deveaux, who ran for 1,856 yards and second consecutive 24 TDs as a sophomore. In addition, the Knights will use Ryan Gilmartin and Connor Maitland as full backs state title. in certain sets and either can spell Deveaux, a highly-
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CHARLOTTE CHRISTIAN
recruited back who ran for a school record 308 yards in the state championship game. New quarterback John Turley will get to ease into taking over the reins with that strong running game to rely on. Turley can make plays with his feet, too, but can also lean on receivers Matthew Weigel, Trey Linton and Jaylon McClinton who should start and Grant Armistead and Aidan Piatek who will provide depth at receiver.
Defense The 3-4 defense was one of Charlotte Christian’s strengths last season and looks to be so again. Chaffin, Bryant and Kennedy Manyka will form the nose of the defense up front and Walton, Alex Parker and Hank Bennett will be among the players in the mix on the ends. The linebacker corps and secondary are strengths for this team, as well. Gouveia and Maitland will be the inside ‘backers and Gilmartin and McClinton will line up outside. Linton will man one of the cornerback spots and Jeremiah White, Jack Owens and McClinton will see time on the outside, as well. Davis Waldrop will start at one safety and Josh Hall returns to the other side where he was a starter in 2012 but missed all of last season with an injury.
Special Teams
Another strength of the Knights, the kicking game will be one of the best around as Jackson Van Sickle will handle the field goals, punting and kickoff duties again this season. Any number of guys will handle return duties including Deveaux, McClinton, Maitland and Gilmartin. –Andrew Stark
In the spotlight
John Turley Turley was penciled in to be a contributor, but not necessarily at quarterback where he suddenly finds himself in charge of one of the state’s best running games and with a host of viable receivers at his disposal. Although he’s a polished passer who can move the chains through the air, Turley is also capable of making big plays with his feet. However he does it, he’ll be one key to the Knights’ championship aspirations.
Photo by Andrew Stark
Quick Hitters
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The Bucs bounced back from a midseason swoon to nearly advance to the state championship game a year ago. With (from left) Sheppard Wilson, Byron Smith, Richard Coker, John Donohue, Preston Palmer and Matt Williams all returning starters, they could carry that momentum forward this year.
Quick Hitters
Coach: Bob Witman, 25th season (214-61), 35th overall (26382)
Conference: Charlotte Independent Schools Athletic Association 2013 record: 6-5, 2-2
CHARLOTTE COUNTRY DAY
Photo by Hannah Dockery
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The Breakdown Pre Snap Read
The Bucs had their lowest wins total in more than a decade last year and lost 20 seniors from that team, but have the tools to bounce back this season. That starts with an experienced offense led by quarterback Cole Bloomer. Although not physically big, the defense is talented and will be the key unit to the Bucs getting back to their winning ways.
2013 playoffs: Offense There are a lot of familiar faces on the Country Day Lost to Charlotte offense, starting with junior quarterback Cole Bloomer, Latin, 30-27, who completed 62 percent of his passes and threw for in the opening 1,532 yards and 12 TDs while sharing quarterback round of the N.C. duties. Independent The job is all his this season, and he can lean on runSchools Athletic ning back Sheppard Wilson, the Bucs’ leading rusher last Association season, or fullbacks Preston Palmer and John Donohue to Division I playoffs. get the job done. That trio will run behind an experienced line that features returning starters Nathan Brenner, Jamie Massey and Miles Mayberry who will be joined by rising sophomore newcomers Shaffer Day and Charles Roselle. When the Bucs turn to the passing game, Bloomer has
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experience in returning starters Byron Smith and Matt Williams as well as newcomer Andy Salisbury, who is playing on the team for the first time but presents a big target at 6-foot-4, and Forrest Hamil, who returns after being injured much of last season.
Defense Palmer returns to anchor the middle of the Bucs’ defense from his linebacker spot, where he was the second-leading tackler last year – recording 73 stops and 2.5 sacks. Warren Holland will have a hand at one of the outside spots and newcomers Amos Sepkowitz and Austin Anderson will vie for the remaining spot and add depth. Defensive ends Richard Coker and Julien Souffrant both made impacts up front last year and will be joined by Brenner and Massey in the rotation. Drew Finley will have a larger role on the line and Tre Seegars returns from injury and will compete for playing time. The secondary is in great shape as Wilson and Donohue return at cornerback. Will Cuthbertson and Peter Pitroff will play in multiple receiver packages at corner and Williams and Hamil are quick and savvy safeties who both tackle well.
Special Teams
weapon for the Bucs, as the junior connected on eight of 10 field goals last season and converted 34 extra points. Dellinger is the kickoff man, as well, as he had 23 touchbacks a season ago. Turner Burgess averaged 35 yards per kick last year and returns as the punter and Williams and Smith will be among the return men. –Andrew Stark
In the spotlight
Cole bloomer
After splitting reps to open the season, the junior took over the quarterback duties and performed admirably last year, passing for 1,534 yards and 12 touchdowns while only throwing four interceptions. This season, with a balanced run game and dynamic receivers at his discretion, Bloomer is ready to take the next step and lead the Bucs in the always-tough CISAA.
Photo by Hannah Dockery
Returning starters: Offense, 8; Defense, 5
Football Night in Southern Mecklenburg
Jonathan (JD) Dellinger returns at kicker and is a
CAROLINA WEEKLY NEWSPAPER GROUP • FALL 2014 • Page 7
The Hawks are big and experienced up front and with (from left) Toby Okwara, Alec Hanff and Tay McMaster taking up space on both lines, it’s certainly a position of strength for coach Larry McNulty.
Quick Hitters
Coach: Larry McNulty, 29th season (241-83) Returning starters: Offense, 10; Defense, 8 Conference: Charlotte Independent Schools Athletic Association 2013 record: 9-3, 3-3
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Photo by Andrew Stark
The Breakdown Pre Snap Read
If anyone can stop Charlotte Christian’s two-year title run and 19-game win streak, it’s the Hawks. They return 18 of 22 starters and have a host of playmakers on both sides of the ball. With all of that talent, Charlotte Latin should at the least return to the championship game and may have enough to win their first title since 2007.
2013 playoffs: Defeated Charlotte Country Day, 3027, in the opening Offense Quarterback Daniel Jones has grown from a 5-foot-11, 135round of the N.C. pound sophomore to a polished 6-5, 200-pound specimen off Independent the field and has come into his own on it, as well, throwing for Schools Athletic nearly 2,400 yards and 27 TDs last year. He’ll have all of his Association’s Division I playoffs; weapons back to at least duplicate those numbers. Running back Denzel Pearson approached 1,000 yards last lost 48-10 to year and scored 15 TDs and he’ll have help in Melvin Rouse, Charlotte Christian a sophomore creating a big following on the recruiting trail. in the state Freshman Marcus Stratford will see some time in the backchampionship. field, as well, making this group as good as any around. Jones’ key targets in the air are Jonathan Jenkins, who led
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Charlotte Latin
the team with 841 receiving yards, and gritty all-state slot man Carson Song. Kanyon Tuttle will start at the off receiver and Rouse will see some time split out wide as well. Owen Armstrong provides depth at receiver and Jackson Monnin and Brady Whitmore are tight end/full backs who will be involved in the passing attack. Like the skill guys, the line is nearly intact with tackles Toby Okwara and Alex Hanff joining center Nick Wilson and guard Addison DeBord as returning starters. Sophomores Ed Cruthfield and Robert Fuller will fill the final guard spot and add depth up front.
Defense The defense is a big strength for coach Larry McNulty as long as everyone stays healthy, as most of the starters are twoway players. Pearson and Rouse, who was an all-state corner as a sophomore and already has been offered by Duke, are ball hawks in the secondary who are capable of shutting down opponents’ pass attacks. Likewise for Song and Tuttle, who seem to be in on every play. The linebackers are very good as Monnin, DeBord and Whitmore join Hunter Sheridan, who led the team in sacks last year and is due for a breakout season. Hanff and Crutchfield will man the defensive end spots up front and all-state performer Tay McMaster will join Okwara at the tackles, creating a one-two pass-rushing punch that should improve upon the 16 combined sacks and be even more of a force.
Special Teams
McNulty is high on junior Tommy Helkyard, who transferred in from Las Vegas. Helkyard will handle the field goals and Clifton Mathis is penciled in as the punter. The electric Rouse will return kicks and any number of guys including Song, Pearson and Tuttle could see time there, as well. –Andrew Stark
In the spotlight
Denzel Pearson The Hawks have a lot of important pieces who will go both ways and senior Denzel Person is no exception. He’ll line up at cornerback on defense, checking opponents No. 1 receiving option, but he may be even more valuable at running back. Last year the senior gained 900 yards on the ground and scored 15 TDs. With the Hawks passing game in full flight, his ground production could determine their ultimate fate.
Photo by Andrew Stark
Football Night in Southern Mecklenburg
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Football Night in Southern Mecklenburg Quick Hitters
Coach: Bruce Hardin, seventh season (39-24); 34th overall (328-114)
Providence Day
The Chargers were just 6-6 last season after experiencing three consecutive winning seasons under coach Bruce Hardin. This year with (top row, from left) Eric Cal, Ross Vandemore, Ricky Smith, Jake Helms (kneeling, from left) Alex Cantrell and John Schweitzer they should be right in the hunt for the conference crown.
Returning starters: Offense, 3; Defense, 6 Conference: Charlotte Independent Schools Athletic Association 2013 record: 6-6, 0-4
Photo by Andrew Stark
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The Breakdown Pre Snap Read
The Chargers are very good defensively, especially in the secondary and linebacker corps, and that will be a huge plus for this team. The offense is where some questions lie, but with experience at quarterback and promise at running back, the unit should be more than capable of putting some points on the scoreboard.
2013 playoffs: Lost to Charlotte Christian, 56-21, in the Offense first round Only three starters return on offense, but of the N.C. with quarterback John Schweitzer, center Independent Eric Cal and tackle Ross Vandemore all Schools Athletic back, the Chargers have a good nucleus. Association Schweitzer took over midseason and threw for nearly 700 yards in six games. Division I He’ll look to improve upon those numbers playoffs.
with a full season at starter and will have
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the bruising Vandemore and Cal protecting him and helping open holes for Gabe Montgomery, who scored seven TDs on the ground in a reserve role. He’s the lead back now, and will get some help from Max Pearson, Soloman Key and Grant Henderson. Ryan Connor’s 429 receiving yards are tops among returners, but the unit has promise with Julius Felder, Madison Young, Tommy Downing and Luke Henegar all in the mix. Tight ends Michael Burgess and Elliott Beiser can help in the passing game and are both exceptional blockers. There are a lot of newcomers up front to join the two holdovers, but Greg Truong will help backup Cal at center and can play other spots up front. John Hoppe, Jake Compton and Ricky Smith will compete for the guard
spots and Jake Helms and Aaron Lipsitz will fight for the remaining tackle position alongside Vandemore.
Defense The secondary is a big strength with Deonte Henderson (seven INTs) and Felder (three INTs) patrolling the backfield. They’ll be joined by Parker Mosack, Alex Cantrell, Scott Peterson and Ben Nathan. Key recorded 97 tackles and three sacks a year ago, and he returns to headline the linebackers. Henderson, Pearson, Smith and Ross Berry also
are in the mix at linebacker – another position of strength for the Chargers. Brad Velardo and Helms are the starters up front at end, with Brian Appleyard and Elijah Brown providing depth. Jonathan Conlan, Compton and Sean Ahuja will be the tackles.
Special Teams Henegar returns to handle the kicking duties, something he did admirably last season, and Peterson is back at punter. Felder and Henderson will return kicks for the Chargers and both are athletic and speedy. –Andrew Stark
deonte henderson
In the spotlight
Henderson is the key to the Chargers’ talented secondary as he’s a true shutdown corner capable of locking on the opposing teams best player. While Henderson, who already has six offers as a defensive back, is a menace on defense, he’ll be equally dangerous on special teams where he’ll return punts and kickoffs. “I believe he’s one of the best corners in the state,” coach Bruce Hardin said. “He’s a natural player and leader and we’re expecting a big year from him.” Photo by Andrew Stark
CAROLINA WEEKLY NEWSPAPER GROUP • FALL 2014 • Page 9
Football Night in Southern Mecklenburg
CAROLINA PRIDE
Quick Hitters Coach: Paul Jackson, first season Returning starters: Offense, 5; Defense, 8 Conference: Coastal Athletic Conference 2013 record: 6-5 2013 playoffs: Did not make playoffs
The Pride enter the Coastal Athletic Conference for the first time and are feeling pretty good about their chances to make some noise with new coach Paul Jackson and seniors (from left) John Thierfelder, Justin Leak, Eric Barrett, Eric Price, Lawrence Harris and Ahmek Henry in the mix this year. Photo by Andrew Stark
The Breakdown
( )
last year. He’ll have a capable target in wide Pre Snap Read receiver John Thier The Pride went 6-5 last season, but they’re felder with Thomas bringing in new coach Paul Jackson who McKyer, Dyquereus will look to establish some consistency, respect and tradition for the homeschool Bowe and Jaylen Erwin program which is beginning anew in the seeing time at receiver, upstart Coastal Athletic Conference’s first year. as well. On the ground, Dixon will look to seniors Justin Leak and Isaiah Learmont, both The Pride is bringing in 6-foot-4, of whom will takeover this season at 200-pound Bruce Dixon from Hick- running back for the first time. But ory Grove to take over the reigns at Dixon’s dual-threat capabilities – he quarterback this season, bolstering ran for 433 yards and nine touchtheir aerial attack as Dixon passed downs last year – will add experifor 2,693 yards and 34 touchdowns ence to the Pride’s running game,
Offense
Page 10 • FALL 2014 • CAROLINA WEEKLY NEWSPAPER GROUP
which should be one of the team’s strengths. The Pride’s line will look a lot different than last year. Cameron Sanders is at right guard, Lawrence Harris at right tackle and Eric Barrett at center. Kenneth Jeter will return at left guard while Charlie Gantt, Nathan Evans, Yongsoo Kambou and Cade Lynch will see time on the line as well.
Defense Barrett will anchor a strong front four alongside Harris, Jeter and Gantt, but the true strength of the Pride defense will be in a deep linebacking corps as Cosby takes over on the outside with Dorian Williams takes over on the outside, John Digiovanna will line up at middle
and Theirfelder, Isaac Johnson and Matthew Gray will spend time on the inside as Jackson said he might try a 3-4 defense. This year’s secondary should be stronger than prior years for the Pride, as Eric Price returns at safety with former East Meck standout Ahmek Henry on the other side. Tim McKyer will man one spot at cornerback and Josiah Learmont, Perry Small and Phillip Harris will all see
time on the outside.
Special Teams
Bhekinkosi Mahlangu will resume kicking duties again this season, and the Pride has a number of quick and elusive return men. They’ll start with Price but will look to Henry as well and have a few other big explosive talents to utilize in the return game. –Hannah Dockery
In the spotlight
Bruce Dixon
The Pride’s new signal caller is no stranger to the football field and is coming off a uber-productive season at Hickory Grove where he threw for nearly 2,700 yards and 34 TDs. In addition, the 6-foot-4 Dixon ran for 433 and another nine scores so he’s versatile enough to have a monster season. He’s already drawing some major recruiting interest and with another year like 2013, he’ll likely land on more team’s radars. Photo by Andrew Stark
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Football Night in Southern Mecklenburg
brian
chaffin
big man on campus by Andrew Stark andrew@thecharlotteweekly.com
Charlotte Christian’s Brian Chaffin is a bit of an oddity, but to him that’s a huge compliment. At 6-foot-1 and 286-pounds of lean muscle, his body is already matured well beyond its years. With a 4.5 grade-point average that consists of honors and AP classes, his mind is equally as strong as his physique, combining to make him one of the best offensive linemen in the country. Ranked as the nation’s sixth-best center in the Class of 2014 by Yahoo.com, combined with his classroom smarts, Chaffin drew the recruiting interest of schools around the country before choosing Stanford out of his long list of suitors. “I’ve had guys who are smart in the classroom but can’t relate it to the field, but he’s able to do that,” Knights coach Jason Estep said. “He brings intellectual ability that makes him really good on the field. He understands angles and he puts the other four linemen and the tight end in the spot to be successful. His technique, his strength out there and his ability to think are his best attributes.” Estep said he first saw all of those traits coming together when Chaffin enrolled at Charlotte Christian in middle school. It was then that Estep knew he had something pretty special on his hands. “We knew when he came that he’d be an impact player,” Estep said. “He’s been one of the very few four-year starters at Charlotte www.carolinaweeklynewspapers.com
Christian since I’ve been here, but he deserves everything good that comes his way. “To put him in the position to play center and come back and be the vocal leader in the huddle and the locker room, it’s like having another coach on the field. As a coach, when you have that guy it makes things easier. He knows tempo, he knows what the checks should be and what the play should be, so it’s nice to have guys like him for sure.” Chaffin said he can’t remember there being another player – much less an offensive lineman – who’s started all four years at Charlotte Christian, a team which has won four state championships including three of the past six and two in a row. “It’s an honor. I take a lot of pride in it,” he said. “There have been a lot of good players who’ve come before me and I’m just thankful and lucky that I get to carry on the tradition that they’ve set.” But, Estep said, Chaffin is at least on par with some of the recent icons who have led the Knights’ successful run. “He falls in line with some of the really good ones to come through our system and we’ve been blessed to have him,” Estep said. “Some guys lead by example and some guys are more vocal, but he has the ability to do both. He also practices extremely hard and has that accountability.” Chaffin is one of this year’s vocal and emotional leaders for the Knights, who lost eight starters on offense, but feature an experienced offensive line of returning starters
including Chaffin, N.C. State commit Philip Walton and Dalton Gouveia leading the way for junior Elijah Deveaux, one of the nation’s top running backs in his class. Despite some questions in key offensive spots, Chaffin feels like his team will again be in the hunt for their third straight state title. “I have a lot of confidence in the guys that came in,” he said. “Our 2016 class is really strong, we have five seniors on our line and that’s an anchoring point for us. People talk about us losing a quarterback, but (new quarterback John) Turley is a great player, he’s stepped up in practice and he brings his lunch pail to work every day so I think on offense we’re going to be just fine and score a lot of points.” And it’s hard to bet against the talented offense, especially with Chaffin taking the reigns on the field and in the locker room. “I love it and I embrace the leadership role,” he said. “I understand that this is my and the seniors’ team and I’m going to always be a good leader and set a good example with my work ethic. “This year, it’s a lot more leadership mentality. I’ve worked on my craft, I have a lot more confidence and I think it shows on the field. I’ve worked a lot on my body and have really leaned up. I haven’t lost a lot of weight, but I’ve transferred it to good weight. I’ve been doing speed training to get faster and stronger, I’ve worked a lot on my technique and I feel really good with where I’m at.” As good as he’s been, Estep said Chaffin’s
leadership extends well beyond the football field and the classroom, making Chaffin the perfect role model for all that Charlotte Christian stands for as a school and community. “I love the challenge of this school because it’s the same with society where they’re going to look at you and hold you to a little bit higher standard,” Chaffin said. “My faith is important to me and with that and the good football they play here, this is a great school for me and I value being one of the leaders.” With everything in tune for this year and his future set, Chaffin said he’s putting all of his efforts into leaving school with a third state title and helping his team achieve all that it can – at least for now. “Winning three would be huge,” he said. “That’s what you come here to do, you play to win championships and to win three would be a huge legacy and I think that’s what carries on and makes our program special.” If that’s the way Chaffin’s high school career ends with a third state title, that would be the perfect sendoff. But, either way, he knows he has a bright future playing football and studying business at Stanford. He said he isn’t sure where football will ultimately take him, but no matter how far he goes, he’s content with how it’s gone so far. “I’m blessed,” he said. “Of course I want to go with football as long as I can, that’s obviously the goal. But I want to be the best man, father and husband that I can be and be successful in my career. That’s where I want to end up.”
CAROLINA WEEKLY NEWSPAPER GROUP • FALL 2014 • Page 11
Football Night in Southern Mecklenburg
Breaking down the So. Meck 8 by Andrew Stark andrew@thecharlotteweekly.com
In its first year of existence, the So. Meck 8 proved it’ll be a highly competitive and tightly contested football conference that will come down to the wire most seasons to determine its champion. And this year is no different. Charlotte Catholic claimed the first title a season ago, but had to beat Providence in the last week of the season to do so. The Cougars are back again, and with a 60-1 in-conference mark since 2004 – mostly in the now defunct ME-GA 7 3A/4A – they’re likely to at the very least challenge for the top spot. But things – at least from the outside – are different for the Cougars. Gone is coaching legend Jim Oddo and in is Mike Brodowicz. Also departed is Elijah Hood, one of Mecklenburg County’s all-time greats, but the beat will go on. Nick Rizzieri, Cole Perry, Jake Priester, Jarrett Anderson and Clay Lozzi will all share carries in the Cougars famous Wing-T offense, and they’ll run behind a big and tough offensive line headlined by Elon commit Matt Kowaleski and space eaters Nick Bruno and Chris Fiato. Defensively, the front seven is very good and
Andrew Stark’s Predicted Order of Finish
if the inexperienced secondary can mesh, the Cougars will again be hard to knock down. One team looking to do just that is Providence, who is under the watchful eye of second-year coach Justin Hardin. Hardin will lean on quarterback Caleb York and running back Brian Mattar to anchor the offense, but it’s an experienced group that returns eight starters. While the offense is a year better, the defense is led by tackle machines Tyler Pistorio, Jack King and Jordan Fehr and will improve upon the 140 points they surrendered last year – a total which already was the conference’s third-stingiest. While the Panthers certainly have what it takes to move up one spot, there are other teams thinking the same thing. Ardrey Kell struggled on defense, allowing the third-most points in the league (210), but they should be markedly improved this year. They return nine defensive starters and have depth and talent at every spot. Their defensive front is anchored by all-conference pick Twazanga Mugala and tackle Raymond Wright. The linebackers are likewise a strength and the secondary returns three starters and is much improved. Offensively, lineman Mason Veal will open holes for their trio of running backs who can all hurt teams. And, if they find a reliable arm at quarterback, the Knights are certainly in the mix of title hopefuls.
Catholic 1 Charlotte (8-3, 6-1) Providence 2 (8-3, 5-2) Ardrey Kell 3 (7-4, 5-2) South Meck 4 (5-6, 4-3)
Page 12 • FALL 2014 • CAROLINA WEEKLY NEWSPAPER GROUP
5 6 7 8
West Meck
(5-6, 3-4)
Olympic
(3-8, 2-5)
Harding
(4-6, 1-6)
Berry
(3-8, 1-6)
Another team looking to make that same jump is South Meck, who is in coach Rocky White’s third season and has taken huge strides each year. The Sabres were good defensively last season, but struggled to put points on the board. With the electric Stephen Griffin sharing time at quarterback with the winner of the Tyshawn Carter/Antonio Wallace battle, the offense should run smoother than last year. Add Devin Andrews and Travis Prince at running back and speedsters Bruce Chambers, Shamar Williams, Chance Kennedy and Moryah Johnson at receiver and the offense, which returns seven starters, is ready to go. The Sabres are huge up front with Zach Gilbert and Antonio Williams and have a solid returning stable of linebackers with Austin Smith, Austin Chapman and Nakyree Stephens. Griffin is a menace to opposing quarterbacks, and it could very well be the year of the Sabres if the rest of the secondary can keep up. West Meck had their time in the spotlight last season, going 5-2 in league play and tying for second place. They have some talented guys – freshman running back Rashae Williams and star defensive back Dominique Williams come to mind – but they’ll have a much tougher road to hoe this season. Olympic had its moments last year, going 4-3 in the So. Meck 8, but have a new coach
HANNAH DOCKERY’s Predicted Order of Finish
1 2 3 4
(Keith Wilkes) and a lot of new faces. They struggled down the stretch last year, going 2-4 after a 5-1 start. One player to keep an eye on is 6-foot-4, 241-pound Emmanuel Olenga, a pass rush specialist getting lots of looks on the next level. Berry won just two games a year ago, but they’ll be improved, especially on offense. Running back Mahlon Medley will lead the way and receivers Thomas Gordon, Jonathan Ifedi and 6-foot-3 Victor Harris are skilled and fast. Defensively, Cedric Stone is a lock down defensive back, but there are too many holes for them to crack the top four. Harding was winless in the conference a year ago but managed three wins on the season. Senior Xzavier Caple and receiver Anthony Cousar are two of four offensive starters who return, and they’re dynamite playmakers. Linebacker Matthew Teachey and defensive tackle Courtney Phillips are two of four defensive starters back, but it’s likely another down year for the Lions, especially in this league. Bottom line is there are probably four teams – Charlotte Catholic, Providence, Ardrey Kell and South Meck – who have a legit chance to win the title this year. It’s hard to bet against the Cougars, but the other big three are back and loaded. So, once again, it’s anyone’s game.
Charlotte Catholic (8-3, 6-1)
Providence (9-2, 5-2)
Ardrey Kell (8-3, 5-2)
South Meck (7-4, 4-3)
5 6 7 8
West Meck
(5-6, 3-4)
Harding
(3-7, 2-5)
Olympic
(4-6, 1-6)
Berry
(3-8, 1-6)
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Football Night in Southern Mecklenburg The Knights had an up and down season last year, but they return a number of key starters including (from left) Taleni Suhren, Javon Hopkins, Bonte Freeman and Josh German that should have them ready for a bounce back season and a shot at a conference title.
Coach: Adam Hastings, fifth season (26-21) Returning starters: Offense, 6; Defense, 9 Conference: So. Meck 8 2013 record: 6-6, 3-4
Photo by Hannah Dockery
The Breakdown
( ) Pre Snap Read
The Knights were a playoff team last season despite allowing the third most points (345) in the conference on defense. That same unit returns nine starters this year and will be a big strength. If they can get consistency on offense – especially with a new quarterback – Ardrey Kell will be a So. Meck 8 title contender.
2013 playoffs: Lost, 62-7, to eventual Class 4-AA state champion Offense The Knights are huge on both sides Mallard Creek of the line and the offensive unit is in the opening headlined by Mason Veal, a 6-foot-6, 285-pound North Carolina commit. round of the He’s joined up front by fellow all-So. N.C. High 8 picks Jared Hunt at left guard School Athletic Meck and Taleni Suhren at right tackle. Association Chris Connor is the center and Jon championships. Rowe is manning the other guard spot while Philip Hamrick and Sean Cunningham will fight for playing time. The talented line will open holes for Bontee Freeman, big-play threat Josh
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German and returning contributor JaVon Hopkins at running back. The Knights are in a position battle at quarterback as senior Christian Vinson and junior Bryce Maginley are fighting for the top quarterback spot. Whoever wins it will have their pick of talented receivers beginning with returning starter Brian McLeoad, inside receiver Kirk Augustus and sophomore Ryan Jones. Nathan Pacello and Dillon Goode also will see time at receiver. Ardrey Kell uses a bunch of H-back and tight end sets on offense and Michael Lanken, Matt Bower, Cameron Bauer, David Zeitouni and Josh White will play in those roles.
Defense
Like on offense, the Knights are big and physical up front and return
Ardrey Kell three starters including all-conference punts and a kickoff for scores last defensive end Twazanga Mugala and season. Hopkins can be used in that defensive tackles Raymond Wright capacity, as well. Newcomer Jonathan and Rhett Huddleston. They’ll be McDaid will handle the kicking. Jarjoined on the defensive front by Dan rett Wright and Garrett Goznell will Dubinsky and Julian Okwara, two big punt. – Andrew Stark bodies who will bolster the pass rush. The linebackers are a posiIn the spotlight tion of experience as Freeman, Will Sapyta and Matt Messler will likely start and Trey Smith, Jones is a dynamic playmaker who is Adam Lutz and Evan Owens destined to become one of Mecklenburg will provide depth. County’s breakout stars in 2014. The backfield also is experi- At safety he’s a devastating enced as Omari Wingard and tackler with good hands Anthony Williams are return- and a knack for the ball ing starters at cornerback. – all skills he uses to get himself open as a gameElijah Scott, Collin Myers changing wide and Torry Sessoms will back receiver in them up. Hopkins and Jones coach Adam will start at safeties and Ryan Hastings’ Dominique, Nathan Pepper offense. and Vishall Desai will play in This is the multiple receiver sets. year he makes a name for himself
Ryan Jones
Photo by Hannah Dockery
Quick Hitters
Special Teams
German is a dangerous return man who ran back two
CAROLINA WEEKLY NEWSPAPER GROUP • FALL 2014 • Page 13
Football Night in Southern Mecklenburg
The best of the best Best linebackers
Providence Linebackers (from left) Jordan Bradley, Tyler Pistorio, Jack King and Jordan Fehr accounted for 380 tackles, seven sacks and five interceptions as sophomores last year. They’re back patrolling the middle of the Panther defense and will make moving the ball at all a tough task for anyone.
Best offensive linemen
Charlotte Catholic The Cougars can always move the ball on the ground, and this year their stable of running backs will benefit from (from left) Nick Bruno, Chris Fiato, Stephen Gileta, Matt Kowaleski, Matt Dean and Ben Woody, who will open huge holes on the way to the end zone.
Best run game charlotte christian The bread and butter of the Knights offense during their back-to-back state championship run has been a solid run game. This year will be no different. With Elijah Deveaux (kneeling, center) toting the ball and (from left) Hank Bennett, Robert McClain, Kennedy Manyika, Brian Chaffin, Dalton Gouveia, Josh Bryant, Alex Parker and Philip Walton blocking, this is the county’s most productive rushing attack by far. Page 14 • FALL 2014 • CAROLINA WEEKLY NEWSPAPER GROUP
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Football Night in Southern Mecklenburg
best
Our choices for the best position groups in southern Mecklenburg Best defensive secondary
Independence
With a potent offense and talent up front on defense, the Patriots are ready to bounce back from a five-loss season on the strength of their secondary which with (from left) Cole Reynolds, Cordell McMurray, Elijah Small, Cedric Stone, Tim Marshall, Bo Parsons and (not pictured) Adonis Alexander is the best around.
best defensive linemen
ardrey kell The Knights will be much improved on defense this year, and much of that strength lies up front with (from left) Rhett Huddleston, Twazanga Mugala and Raymond Wright, who can stymy any run game but have a special knack for making opposing quarterbacks’ lives difficult on Friday nights.
Best passing game
Charlotte Latin Quarterback Daniel Jones (with ball) has so many options at receiver with (from left) Alex Massardo, Kanyon Tuttle, Jonathan Jennings, Carson Song and Melvin Rouse that he’ll have a hard time picking which one is more open. Lucky for Hawk fans, they all possess game-breaking speed and should have Latin soaring high all season.
Best kicking game Charlotte christian Jackson Van Sickle is just one more weapon for the talented Knights, but his right leg can easily change the outcome of the game. Not only is he capable from 55 yards and beyond on field goals, but his punting skills nearly ensure the Knights will rarely have bad field position.
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CAROLINA WEEKLY NEWSPAPER GROUP • FALL 2014 • Page 15
Football Night in Southern Mecklenburg
Coach: Mike Brodowicz, first season Returning starters: Offense, 7; Defense, 7 Conference: So. Meck 8 2013 record: 12-3, 7-0
( )
The Breakdown Pre Snap Read
The Cougars have to replace two legends in coach Jim Oddo and running back Elijah Hood, but don’t feel sorry for them – a stable of running backs and talented and fortified offensive and defensive linemen will have Charlotte Catholic in the hunt for the conference crown at the very least.
2013 playoffs: Beat A.L. Brown, 56-14, in the opening Offense As is typical with Charlotte Catholic teams, the offenround of the N.C. sive line will be a huge key. And that’s a very good thing High School Athletic this year. Elon commit Matt Kowaleski leads a talented and Association Class 4A deep group that will feature Nick Bruno and Matt Dean at playoffs; defeated the guards and Chris Fiato and Ben Woody manning the High Point Central, tackles. Steven Gileta and JV call ups Jake Ballard, Chris Bruno and Quinn Hutchins will provide bulk and depth to 42-21, in the second an already good bunch. round; knocked off The Cougars’ Wing-T offense uses a host of tight ends Southeast Guilford, and Jake Fassler, Ryan Vermillion and Mike Wilson can 56-30, in the third block and make some plays in the passing game. The talented line will open holes for Nick Rizzieri, Cole round; and fell to Perry, Jake Priester, Clay Lozzi and Jarrett Anderson, the Dudley, 20-15, in the only newcomer in the running game, but a standout last state semifinals. year on JV.
Page 16 • FALL 2014 • CAROLINA WEEKLY NEWSPAPER GROUP
The Cougars are entering a new era with coach Mike Brodowicz taking the reins, but there won’t be too many changes in their schemes, making them a conference contender at the very least. There’s lots of talent to support the first-year coach with (from left) running back Nick Rizzieri, returning defensive end Connor Miller, defensive tackle Owen Hall and running back Cole Perry in the mix. Photo by Hannah Dockery
Charlotte Catholic
When the Cougars take to the air, something they should do a little more often this season, returning starting quarterback Ryan Miller will lead the way. However, newcomer and two-year JV starter John Walton will see some time, moving Miller to wideout at times where he’ll join newcomers John Newman, Matt White and Ryan Brosue.
Defense Like on offense, the Cougars’ defensive strength lies up front as they return six of their front seven starters from last year. Defensive end Connor Miller led the team in sacks and will team with tackles Owen Hall and Jacob Trumpower and fellow ends Wilson, Hutchins, Matthew Nortangelo and Constant Mongango to form a formidable line. The linebacking corps also is intact and led by Braedon Mead, the leading tackler last year. Xander Gagno returns at the other outside spot and Greyson Krone, Drew Tomich, Joe Piraino, Joey Lapiana and White will see time in the middle. The secondary is young and inexperienced, but they’ll be good with Alex Lapiana coming back to man one corner. Josh Boll, Jacob Becks and Keenan MacQuarrie will compete for the other corner spot and Jack Spdeidel will join Lance Schacht, Josh Brodowicz, Brouse and Miller in the safety spots.
Special Teams
The Cougars have a pair of kickers – Marco Baeza and Jack Fonda – who will vie for the kickoff, field goal and punting duties and each is more than capable of handling the load. Priester and Anderson will get the first crack at the return duties. – Andrew Stark
Ryan miller
In the spotlight
The 6-foot-1, 205-pound quarterback returns for his third season under center for the Cougars and this year will have a larger role in the offense as they’ll look to throw a little more often than in year’s past. While he’ll start as the signal caller, Miller will slide some to wideout to let junior John Walton get some time at quarterback and open up the offense. Miller is also a standout safety so wherever he lines up on the field, he’ll have a huge impact in what the Cougars are doing this season.
Photo by Hannah Dockery
Quick Hitters
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The Panthers made a huge jump in coach Justin Hardin’s first season at the helm. With 15 starters back they’re expected to take the next step, especially with (from left) Jacob Bernstein, Brian Mattar and Dimitri Gonzalez leading the way.
Coach: Justin Hardin, second season at Providence, fourth overall (22-16) Returning starters: Offense, 8; Defense, 7 Conference: So. Meck 8 2013 record: 8-5, 6-2 2013 playoffs: Defeated West Meck, 14-7, in the opening round of the N.C. High School Athletic Association’s Class 4-AA playoffs; lost in the second round, 42-27, to eventual state champion Mallard Creek.
Photo by Hannah Dockery
( )
The Breakdown Pre Snap Read
First-year coach Justin Hardin guided the Panthers to their first winning season and first playoff win since 2009. The Panthers will rely on a few key pieces on offense and their experienced and talented defense this season to build off that and challenge for the So. Meck 8 title.
Offense
Quarterback Caleb York got better and better as the season wore on, playing his best game in the playoffs against undefeated state champion Mallard Creek when he threw for 204 yards and three TDs. York has looked great in the preseason and is expected to have a huge senior year to build on his numbers, which included 1,740 passing yards, 13 TDs and 761 rushing yards which resulted in eight scores. He’ll have help in the backfield with Brian Mattar, an all-conference back who gained 1,000 yards and scored 12 TDs. John Biasucci and Jeremy Spencer return as starters at wide receiver and will build on last year’s production. Danny Epstein is a tight end/
South Meck
Providence
receiver and will be involved, as will 6-foot-5 Drake Deiulis, who will play receiver after quarterbacking last year’s JV team. All-conference guard Jacob Bernstein will lead an experienced group up front that features returning starters Grant Dixon and Ben Tomerlin at tackles and Jack Boguski at center. Danny Jackson and Jake Lavender will compete at the other guard spot.
Coach: Rocky White, third season (5-17)
Conference: So. Meck 8
Returning starters: Offense, 7; Defense, 9
2013 playoffs: None
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2013 record: 3-8, 3-4
Special Teams
All-conference kicker Biacucci will handle the kicking duties while Austin Kent will be the punter. Mattar, who is a track star in the spring for the Panthers, will get the first shot at return duties. – Andrew Stark
Caleb York
Defense
( )
The Breakdown Pre Snap Read
With their collection of skill players, the Sabres have more than enough firepower to be a conference contender in the So. Meck 8 and earn just their second winning season since 2004. In the end, their 2014 success will be determined by both lines – which are talented, but thin – and their play-making skill guys.
The Sabres struggled to move the ball through the air last year, especially until Stephen Griffin – a University of Tennessee commit as a defensive back – took over the reins. Griffin is electric with the ball in his hands and will be the signal caller in certain sets, but the Sabres are hoping sophomores Antonio Wallace and Tyshawn Carter, a Rocky River transfer, can step in and take over full time. Griffin led the team in rushing last year from his quarterback spot, but senior returning back Devin Andrews and sophomore Travis Prince will look to make a bigger impact and stabilize the ground game. With an improved passing attack, the Sabres have a bunch of guys waiting to make an impact as receivers as Bruce Chambers and Shamar Williams will join Chance Kennedy and Moryah Johnson at wideout. All are dangerous playmakers. Antonio Williams and Zach Gilbert will have a hand in the passing game as both are tight end/full backs depending on the set. Elston Hart will start at center and Will Jones and Seth Mann will be the guards. Jake Lawler and Gabe Hernandez will man the tackle spots and Will Jones can play multiple spots on the line. Photos by Hannah Dockery
In the spotlight
Coach Justin Hardin marveled at York’s production last season when he continued to improve on a game-by-game basis. He returns this year after throwing for 1,740 yards and 13 TDs and running for 761 yards and eight scores on the ground. With so much talent around him, York’s continuing steady play could push the Panthers in contention for a conference title and put them among the state’s elite.
The secondary is loaded with returning starters beginning with strong safety Jack King, a three-year starter who was an all-conference pick last year after recording 119 tackles. Connor Jackson will be the free safety and Devon Kent and Frankie Cook will man the corners for the Panthers. All-conference middle linebacker Jordan Fehr is a two-year starter and led the team with 129 tackles, and he’ll be flanked by Tyler Pistorio, who recorded 125 tackles, at linebacker. JV captain Quinn Mahaney will get the first crack at the weakside linebacker spot. Dimitri Gonzalez recorded a team-high 13 sacks up front and is a three-year starter. He’s joined by 300-pound Amin Soubouti and Joe Krajewski at the tackle spots while Dru Seabrook and Michael Mons will start at the ends.
Offense
In each of coach Rocky White’s previous two seasons, the Sabres have taken big steps forward. This year his team is surrounded with a formidable group of skill players including (back row, from left) Austin Chapman, Moryah Johnson, White, Chance Kennedy, Demar Johnson, (front row, from left) Antonio Williams, Austin Smith and Zach Gilbert who are looking to Quick Hitters get the Sabres into the meat of the So. Meck 8 championship picture. Photo by Hannah Dockery
Football Night in Southern Mecklenburg
Photo by Hannah Dockery
Quick Hitters
Defense
The defense has a chance to be very good as Griffin headlines a quick and disruptive secondary from his safety spot. Demar Johnson will be the other safety with AJ Elam serving as their backup. Josh Brannon will start at one corner and Josh McNeely and Jacobi Clement will see time at the other spot and play in multiple receiver packages. The linebackers are another strong point as Austin Chapman (103 tackles last year) and Austin Smith (100 and three sacks) had great season and are primed for big years and Nakyree Stephens is a returning starter outside. Gilbert (10 sacks) and Antonio Williams (4.5 sacks) will create havoc from their defensive end spots and Jake Lawler and Derrick Pierce will man the tackles, providing another area of strength.
Special Teams Johnson, Kennedy and Carter will all see time returning kicks. As for the kicking specialists, the Sabres will choose between Jonathan Dower and Tanner Gobi at kicker and between Elam and Dower at punter, with each entering camp with a shot to earn the job.
In coach Rocky White’s first two seasons at South Meck, the one thing he’s missed is a true quarterback who can guide his offense. Tennessee commit Stephen Griffin will see some time there, but the winner of the Carter-Wallace position battle could change the Sabres’ offense for the better.
tyshawn carter
antonio wallace
CAROLINA WEEKLY NEWSPAPER GROUP • FALL 2014 • Page 17
Football Night in Southern Mecklenburg
big man on campus by Andrew Stark andrew@thecharlotteweekly.com
Sabres coach Rocky White knew he had a pretty special talent on his hands when Stephen Griffin arrived for his first practice at South Meck. Griffin had transferred from Tabb High
Griffin said he’d never played quarterback at any level, but he was up for the challenge. “I stepped in and tried to do as much as I could for my team,” he said. “They asked me to play quarterback and of course I was more than willing to do it to help my team.
“He’s a quiet young man, but he accepts challenges readily. He jumped in there and never backed down,” White said. “He worked really hard at it. It was good for him to be put in a situation like that and it was a pleasure for us as coaches to see him embrace the challenge and put in the work to make
Griffin, who is coming off a defensive season in which he recorded 80 tackles, three interceptions and two forced fumbles, said he’s looking forward to a big senior year, especially if it means he can do something that he’s never done during his already distinguished career.
stephen griffin School in Yorktown, Va., to the school where his father, Steve, had unanimously won the 1981 Associated Press N.C. Player of the Year award after leading the Sabres to an undefeated state championship while rushing for 1,671 yards and adding 207 receiving yards and 24 TDs. But Griffin wasn’t a running back – instead a strapping 6-foot-3, 185-pound safety who already possessed sick on-ball
skills and was drawing the attention of college recruiters. White penciled Griffin into his secondary, immediately making that one of the Sabres’ strongest units. “On defense, you don’t find a lot of guys that can be run stoppers and pass defenders and he has the ability to do both,” White said. “The thing that really separates him from most folks is he’s 6-foot-3, 185 pounds, he bench presses 305 pounds, he’s close to a 500-pound squatter so he’s a big guy so that’s obviously impressive. He can be a run stopper but can also cover real well.” That part was obvious to White from the beginning. But when the Sabres began last season, it also was quickly apparent that they needed to go in a different direction at quarterback and find ways to get the ball in Griffin’s capable hands as much as possible. “We learned pretty quickly that we needed to put the ball in our best offensive player’s hands and it didn’t take us long to figure out that was him,” White said. “We really didn’t know how he’d respond when we put him at quarterback and he’d never played there at all, but you could see him grow every day, not only developing the confidence but also relishing in the challenge of it. That’s what we liked about him.”
“I’ll do whatever it takes to make the playoffs because I’ve never been on a winning team my whole high school career,” he said. “Before I moved here, even, I’ve never been on a winning team so I want to go to the playoffs and see what it’s like to be in the postseason. “It’s frustrating for any team to have a losing record, but I think we
I just tried to do a good job, make some plays and help my team as much as possible. “At times it was tough, though. Passing the ball was the toughest thing, but I tried my best and made the most of the situation. It was a little bit frustrating at times, but it’s fun and you get the ball every play and have all of the action go through you.” Griffin shined individually running the Sabres offense. He completed nearly 60 percent of his passes during the last four games and overall threw for 565 yards and three scores and ran for 543 yards and three TDs while taking his first-ever snaps under center.
Page 18 • FALL 2014 • CAROLINA WEEKLY NEWSPAPER GROUP
himself a pretty doggone good quarterback.” While Griffin will again spend time at quarterback this fall for the Sabres as they’ll look to feed him the ball whenever possible, it’s his work on the defensive side of the ball that’s awarded him a scholarship to the University of Tennessee – Griffin chose the Vols over more than 10 other offers – and has White most excited. “He has that great size, speed and great instincts,” White said. “That’s what the recruiters loved right off the bat about him. When you see Stephen, he’s got long arms, got room to grow and is just an impressive young man all the way around.”
can turn it around this year. We have a good team and we know what we can do. We know we have a lot of potential, but potential doesn’t mean anything until you do something with it, so that’s what we’re trying to do.” And with Griffin leading a host of skill players with considerable talent and upside, the Sabres will look to take the next step in White’s third season and compete for a spot among the So. Meck 8’s upper echelon of teams. With Griffin determined to lead the Sabres for their final season and on a mission for a winning season, White can see a more urgent sense from his star. “He’s done a really good job letting his actions talk for him, but he’s been a lot more energetic,” White said. “He’s continuing to grow as a player and as a young man. I’m proud of him, I really am.” But to close his career in style, Griffin would love nothing more than to check the final goal off his list. “We want to do what we can. We don’t have a lot of people believing in us, but we have ourselves and that’s all that we need – our team and our family,” Griffin said. “I haven’t really made it or done anything yet. I’m focused on the school year, on doing as much as I can to help this team so that we can be the best.” www.carolinaweeklynewspapers.com
Football Night in Southern Mecklenburg
Breaking down the SW4A by Hannah Dockery hannah@thecharlotteweekly.com
The Southwestern 4A conference is always loaded with talent, as its members have won 11 of the 14 state titles in football’s highest division during the 2000s. Expect nothing less this year. Last year was arguably a down season for the conference. Butler reigned king from 2009-12, when they grabbed three of four state titles. So dropping to 11-5 was a tough pill to swallow for Butler fans. Independence – one of the state’s most decorated programs after dominating the early 2000s with eight consecutive state championships – fell to 8-5 and limped to an early playoff exit to their most fierce rival, the in-conference Bulldogs. Meanwhile, upstart Rocky River capitalized on the conference's down year, posting an impressive 11-3 record – their best to date – while winning their first playoff game in the program's short history. They defeated Butler for the first time and deservedly won their first Southwestern 4A title as the title-hogging Bulldogs and Patriots watched their claim to the conference crown slip through their fingers. The conference also welcomed newcomer Porter Ridge to the 4A classification. After making it to the Class 3A state title game two years in a row (2011-12), the Pirates fell to 8-5 as a Southwestern 4A team but finished 4-2 in the conference, proving their potential. Myers Park finished 4-7 after a stroke of bad luck kept coach Scott Stein off the field for the majority of the season while East Meck and Garinger struggled to win a game. But that was last year. This season will be a dogfight as the three frontrunners – Independence, Butler and Rocky River – each return with something to prove.
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Let’s start with Butler. The Bulldogs return the core of their group from last year and are loaded on both sides of the ball. North Carolina recruit Anthony Ratliff-Williams will start at quarterback and lead an offense that’s equally dangerous on the ground and in the air with Benny LeMay at running back and Charlotte 49er recruit Alex Barrow at receiver. Their smothering defense returns Antoine Broom and Jalen Cousar up front, Jarrett Norman and Clifton Duck in the secondary and Jay Gibbs and Creighton Howard at linebacker. They’ll have a chip on their shoulder after last year’s unprecedented five losses – the most since 2004 – but confidence after reaching the state semifinals. Their road back to conference supremacy won’t be easy. Independence fell to the ‘Dogs twice last season, including the infamous loss on Nov. 8 where 44 points were scored in the fourth quarter but an offensive penalty and failed extra point with no time on the clock resulted in the Patriots losing, 43-42. It’s a sting they haven’t forgotten and will be used as motivation as they enter this season. Per usual, Butler and Independence will battle for the conference’s top spot. The Patriots return five offensive starters and will lean on Army commit Kelvin Hopkins at quarterback to take over the lead role. A.J. Peele and Quantavius McGill are two big guys that can run the ball and will be good options on the ground, but the strength of the Patriots is in their defense – a sore spot at times last year. Up front, they’ve got Christian Colon and Kima Bell and some of the best linebackers in the conference with Jimmel Twine and Chris Mangum, which will be a huge strength. To win the conference, though, both teams must knock off the champion Ravens, who just four seasons ago went 0-10. This year, they look to prove they belong atop the conference power structure. Naiil Ramadan shared time at quarterback last year, but he’s the guy this season. He has help in running backs Elijah Jett, Elijah Henry and Rashaad Brannon. But just like last year, the Ravens aren’t one-
dimensional. South Carolina commit Jaire Alexander is the headliner for the Ravens as the future Gamecock is a playmaker on both sides of the ball. The Ravens beat Porter Ridge twice last year, but the Pirates aren’t the guinea pigs anymore even though they’ll be welcoming coach Zach Bevilacqua, who will be their third play-caller in three seasons. A lot will look different (especially on offense) for the Pirates, as some combination of Drew Neely, Eric Hogan, Piero Lopez, Matt Donahue and Joe Delgiudice will start up front. Tyrek Huntley will takeover quarterback duties but have experience to lean on in receiver A.J. Barrett. With young talent and a few workhorses on defense, the Pirates will be looking to compete but will have to adjust to all the changes quickly. Speaking of change, Scott Chadwick will be the Mustangs third coach in four seasons. He has a 112-62 record with 15 years of experience behind him and is ready to put his new team on the right track. They’ll look to receiver Tadarin McNeil and running back Jaquavion Alexander to make plays on offense while senior linebacker Emrys Calin will team with safety Bo Owens to make moving the ball difficult. It’s a tall task for the Mustangs to compete along the ranks of their Southwestern 4A counterparts, but they could surprise some people with their solid ground game and improved defense. East Meck and Garinger have a lot of ground to cover. The Eagles went 1-10 last year and only beat Garinger, who dropped every game. It’s going to take a lot for them to fare much better this year in a stacked conference. When all is said and done, it’s nearly impossible for me to pick who will come out on top in this year’s Southwestern 4A race. It’s likely going to be another three-way fight between Butler, Independence and Rocky River. I have to give an edge to Butler out of sheer respect for their returning talent, but as last year proved, anything can happen.
Andrew Stark’s Predicted Order of Finish 1
Butler
(8-3, 5-1)
2
Rocky River
3
Independence
4
Porter Ridge
(8-3, 5-1) (8-3, 4-2)
Park 5 Myers (5-6, 3-4) East Meck 6 (1-10, 1-5)
7 (0-10, 0-6) Garinger
(6-5, 3-3)
HANNAH DOCKERY’s Predicted Order of Finish
1 2 3
Butler
(10-1, 6-0)
Myers Park 5 (4-7, 2-4) Independence (9-2, 4-2)
Rocky River
East Meck 6 (2-9, 1-5)
Porter Ridge
7 (0-10, 0-6)
(8-3, 4-2)
Garinger
4
(4-7, 3-3)
CAROLINA WEEKLY NEWSPAPER GROUP • FALL 2014 • Page 19
Football Night in Southern Mecklenburg
( ) Pre Snap Read
The Bulldogs were dangerous last season and what they might deem an “off year” resulted in a state semi-finals appearance. This year, they’re back with nearly all that talent and losing isn’t anywhere on their agenda.
The Breakdown Offense
The Bulldog offense begins and ends with North Carolina recruit Anthony Ratliff-Williams, their star dual-threat quarterback. Last year he threw for 2,362 yards and 30 TDs while adding another 1,443 yards and 20 scores on the ground and was at times the fastest guy on the field. He’s good enough in his own right but will be that much better with a number of weapons at his disposal, including receiver Alex Barrow, a Charlotte 49er commit, and running back Benny LeMay. Cody Kluttz will anchor an experienced line at tackle alongside Darryl Scroggins while Jerome Simpson will line up at one of the guard spots
Coach: Brian Hales, fourth season (37-7) Returning starters: Offense, 7; Defense, 8 Conference: Southwestern 4A 2013 record: 11-5, 5-2
Photo by Andrew Stark
with Michael Andryc at center. Some combination of Kam Stinson, Cam Taylor, Kadron Smith, Devin Smith and Alex Masone seeing time on the line as well.
Defense The Bulldog defense last year held conference opponents to an average of just 14 points. This year, they’ll be even stronger with Clifton Duck, Greylon Anthony, Cameron Bratton and Tyrek Sims returning in the secondary. A.J. Peace, Kluttz and Jaylon Cousar will be up front along with Johntavious King and Madison Rabb seeing time on the line as well. The Bulldogs linebacking corps will be anchored by Jay Gibbs and Creighton Howard, both returning starters from last season. Jarrett Norman, Jason Streeter, Antoine Broom and Christian Dixon will all be in the mix as well adding to the Bulldogs strengths.
Special Teams Bryon Fitzgerald with handle kicking duties for the Bulldogs with four capable return guys in Norman, Jordan Huntley, Duck and Barrow keeping the Dogs loaded in every phase of the game. – Hannah Dockery
Jay gibbs
2013 playoffs: Beat Olympic, 55-28, in the first round of the N.C. High School Athletic Association Class 4-AA playoffs; beat Independence, 46-39, in the second round; beat West Forsyth, 48-7, in the third round; lost to eventual state champion, 56-14, in the state semi-finals.
In the spotlight
Butler annually churns out top-level linebacker recruits and this year Jay Gibbs is that guy. Gibbs returned to football for the first time since middle school as a junior last year and racked up 104 tackles and four sacks. This year coach Brian Hales said Gibbs is far more advanced and in-tune with the defense, so expect a monster year in 2014.
Photo by Andrew Stark
Butler
Quick Hitters
The Bulldogs had a down year by their lofty standards but still advanced to the Regional Final. This year with (from left) Benny LeMay, Clifton Duck, Creighton Howard, Jarrett Norman and Alex Barrow all back in the mix, coach Brian Hales (kneeling) should have his team in the mix for a state title.
East Meck Defense
Pre Snap Read
The Eagles have gone 5-40 in the last four seasons and will need nothing short of a miracle to compete in the ruthless Southwestern 4A conference again this year. That miracle just might be Barry Shuford, the Eagles’ new coach who has a history of bringing programs up from ashes.
The Breakdown
Offense
The Eagles are young in each phase of the game and will start a freshman at quarterback on a team that could potentially start five freshmen and six sophomores. Khalil Gilliam will take the reins under center but he’s got a good arm and is quick on his
feet. Shuford said he’s got potential to be a game-changer, reminding him of a young Christian LeMay, but will need his supporting cast to come through to be successful. On the ground, Gilliam will look to junior running back Bryon Collins – a guy who’s smart, fast and won’t be coming off the field much. James Cornett will control the Eagles’ aerial attack but they’re probably going to be more comfortable with the run. The line could be a big strength for the Eagles if they can keep everyone healthy. Senior guard Devin Griffin will provide some veteran leadership at guard while Grant Abernethy will man the other guard spot. Quinton Noguchi, who measures in at 6-foot-5, 290-pounds and returning starter Matt Enten will line up at tackle and open holes for Collins.
Page 20 • FALL 2014 • CAROLINA WEEKLY NEWSPAPER GROUP
Special Teams The Eagles’ kicking game is in the capable hands of Christian Thomas, who’s returning after last season and should provide some consistency. But, Shuford said, first they’ll need to find someone who can catch a kickoff. Allen is most likely the guy to handle return duties but that role could fall to any number of guys. – Hannah Dockery
Quick Hitters Coach: Barry Shuford, first season at East Meck (142-136 overall) Returning starters: 3 Offense; 3 Defense Conference: Southwestern 4A 2013 record: 2-10, 2-5 2013 playoffs: Did not make playoffs
Khalil gilliam
When coach Barry Shuford said that incoming freshman quarterback Khalil Gilliam reminds him of a young Christian LeMay, it means something. Gilliam has a strong arm, is quick on his feet and has the leadership abilities even at his young age to control the Eagles’ offense. He’s got potential to be a game changer especially with running back Byron Collins at his disposal.
Photo by Hannah Dockery
( )
The Eagles may be young, but they’ve got talent and experience in junior running back Brian Collins, junior defensive end Keith Farrow-Robinson Photo by Hannah Dockery
The Eagles’ defense is looking a little shaky to start the season, as Shuford’s top two sophomore linebackers are currently on the sidelines with injuries. TJ Elliott was an all-conference selection as a freshman but is currently in a cast with a wrist injury that’ll keep him out the next two weeks. Their line will be full of fresh new faces, mainly underclassmen, including Keyshawn Barnes, Keith Farrow-Robinson, Devin Griffin and Xavier Jackson. David Allen, who played quarterback last season and will play backup this year, will now spend most of his time anchoring the secondary, which will be the Eagles’ biggest strength on defense.
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Football Night in Southern Mecklenburg
Quick Hitters
Independence
Coach: Joe Evans, second season (8-5) Returning starters: Offense, 5; Defense, 9
Defense
Conference: Southwestern 4A 2013 record: 8-5 2013 playoffs: Defeated Hough, 1310, in the first round of the Class 4-AA playoffs; lost to Butler, 46-39, in the second round.
The Patriots had some ups and downs last year, but are poised to make 2014 a year to remember. With (from left) Chris Mangum, Kima Bell, Christian Colon and Jimmel Twine back for an encore season, the Patriots could easily return to glory. Photo by Andrew Stark
( ) The Breakdown Pre Snap Read
The storied Patriot program enters the 2014 season with high hopes after what most considered a down year, going 8-5 with two losses to rival Butler. But with Kelvin Hopkins (3,303 all-purpose yards, 38 TDs) returning for his senior season and a defense nearly intact, this blue-collar team will be ready for some dogfights.
Offense
Army commit Hopkins is a dual-threat quarterback who will run the Patriots offense again
after a monumental junior season where he passed for 2,724 yards and added another 574 on the ground. He’ll look to run the ball more after losing wide receiver Workpeh Kofa (Charlotte 49ers) and he’ll have two good options on the ground in A.J. Peele and Quantavius McGill to fill the shoes of Isaiah Robinson (Wake Forest). They’re both 190-pound guys, but shifty enough to hit the holes. Receivers Will Walton and Jamar Jenkins will lead the Patriot aerial attack as the team’s best option on the outside. But they’ll have to win in the trenches first – a tall task after losing all but one of their offensive linemen from a year ago. They’ll look to Paulus Bonar, a three-year varsity starter, to anchor the line alongside newcomer Anthony Small.
Photo by Hannah Dockery
After winning four games and missing out on the playoffs last season, Myers Park turns to coach Scott Chadwick to get them back to their traditional winning ways. He’ll have the help of (from left) Tadarin McNeil, Emrys Callin, Chadwick and Jontavius Hall, giving him a solid foundation to build upon.
( )
The Breakdown Pre Snap Read
The Mustangs struggled to put it all together last season while competing in one of the Charlotte area’s toughest conferences. But they’ve got a new coach who will try to establish some consistency after being named the fourth head coach in six seasons. With Clay Norris returning at quarterback with experience under his belt and receivers Tadarin McNeil and Jontavius Hall teaming with leading rusher Jaquavion Alexander, the offense should be able to carry the load. It’s the defense that will be the key for the Mustangs this year.
Offense
Alexander returns for his senior season and will control the Mustangs’ offense on the ground after rushing for 1,022 yards and 13 touchdowns as a junior despite missing a pair of games. Left tackle Zack Martin, right guard Tahir Taylor and right tackle James Morris
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will look to open holes for Alexander along with newcomer Jymychal Neal at left guard and Anton O’Brien at center. The strong-armed Norris, who passed for 1,302 yards and 12 touchdowns last season, will have several capable targets in the air as well to fill the shoes of Scottie McDaniel, beginning with Hall, Brandon Adams and McNeil, while Michael Melvin, Cooper Hearn and Saiq Patrick will add depth to Norris’ receiving options.
Defense The Mustang defense struggled to keep opponents off the scoreboard last season, only holding teams to less than 20 points on three
Up front, the Patriots return tackle Christian Colon and defensive end Kima Bell, younger brother of former North Carolina recruit Hawatha Bell who’s measuring in at 6-foot-4, 215 pounds. But their strength will be in a tough linebacking corps of Jimmel Twine, who led the conference in tackles per game, Chris Mangum (115 tackles) and Jerome Cochran, who starred on the Patriots JV team. The back end of the Patriots defense should be even stronger than last year with Philip O. Berry transfer Cedric Stone lining up at cornerback with Elijah Small, who played big minutes as a sophomore, and returning starter Deion Washington. They also return a healthy Tim Marshall, who missed much of last season due to an ACL injury but is back and healthy and expected to be one of the Patriots’ biggest weapons. The Patriots return Virginia Tech commit Adonis Alexander and Cole Reynolds at safety, two dangerous defensive backs that will allow the Patriots to take chances up front.
Special Teams The Patriots kicking game struggled in a big way last season and it cost them. Ryan Brush will be back with more experience under his belt
but they’re looking to the Patriot soccer team to solidify the kicking game. And with Twine, Alexander and the speedy Washington, they’ve got any combination of guys who can return the ball. – Hannah Dockery
In the spotlight
Will Walton In the Patriots’ high octane offense, they seem to always have a receiver ready for a breakout year, and this year Walton is that guy. He showed promise last season with 26 catches, 491 yards and three touchdowns, but with strong-armed Kelvin Hopkins under center, Walton could easily double those numbers and will be a huge cog in the Independence offense. Photo by Andrew Stark
Myers Park occasions. But with capable outside linebackers in Emrys Callin (39 tackles), Noah Smith, Chad Markey and Warren Layne and middle ‘backers Ross Jeffries and Ben Norris, the Mustangs should matchup with running and passing offenses more so than last year. Donnie Harris, Parker Hoffler, Neal and Parker Blake will form the nose of the defense up front with Jamal Watson and Kevin Aford manning the cornerback spots. Tommy Wayne will see some time at corner as well and Bo Owens (45 tackles) and Tim Willis both return at safety. The team has added depth in sophomore up-and-comer Antario Dubose.
Special Teams Remington Frost, a four-star soccer recruit who’s committed
to William & Mary, will handle field goals and kickoff duties for the Mustangs while Sean Jeffries will handle the punting. They’ve got a number of guys who can take care of kickoff returns but will most likely lean on McNeil to start the season. – Hannah Dockery
Clay norris
Quick Hitters
Coach: Scott Chadwick, first season at Myers Park, 16th overall (112-61) Returning starters: Offense, 5; Defense, 5 Conference: Southwestern 4A 2013 record: 4-7
2013 playoffs: Did not make playoffs In the spotlight
Norris looks the part at 6-foot-4, 210 pounds and last season he showed that he has more than enough to get the Mustangs back to their winning ways. Norris used his ability to make every throw on the field, tossing 12 TDs while throwing for more than 1,200 yards. Also a dangerous runner, Norris is going to love running coach Scott Chadwick’s offense and he should be in line for a significant jump in production as a result. Photo by Hannah Dockery
CAROLINA WEEKLY NEWSPAPER GROUP • FALL 2014 • Page 21
( ) Football Night in Southern Mecklenburg
The Pirates held their own in their first season of the Southwestern 4A conference a year ago. This season, first-year Porter Ridge coach Zach Bevilacqua, a Butler High graduate and former coach at North Lincoln, will try improve upon that success in the state’s toughest football conference.
rounding out the line at center.
Offense
The Pirates suffered a big blow when they lost tailback Grant VanderVoort in the preseason to a season-ending injury, but the beat must go on. Alan Chase will get the first shot at the lead running back spot and will carry the bulk of the offensive load. First-year quarterback Tyreq In the spotlight Huntley will take over the signal-calling duties and is a deft runner as well, which will serve Huntley takes over the starting the Pirate offense well. quarterback duties for the When Huntley takes to the Pirates and brings with him air he has a plethora of weapall of the intangibles to have a breakout season. Last ons including A.J. Barrett, who season the Pirates averaged caught 32 passes for 524 yards more than 32 points per and three touchdowns a year game and will have to put ago, and is the Pirates most seaup similar numbers to compete soned receiver. Brian Newsome in this league. is back at receiver as well and Huntley’s Dexter York and Jordan Crowell combination will both get plenty of passes of size, thrown their way. throwing Drew Neely returns at tight accuracy end and Nick Chiaravalloti is a and athleticism versatile weapon who can play should make him tight end, fullback and H-back the perfect fit for as well. the long haul this Dylan McCarthy and Joe Dose season, helping the are the tackles and Matt DonaPirates remain one of hue and Vince Vagnone will man the conference elites. the guard spots with Eric Hogan Photo by Andrew Stark
tyreq huntley
ROCKY RIVER
Quick Hitters Coach: Jason Fowler, fifth season (21-26)
Returning starters: Offense, 6; Defense, 6 Conference: Southwestern 4A 2013 record: 11-3 2013 playoffs: Defeated Reagan, 26-6, in the first round of the Class 4A playoffs; defeated Porter Ridge, 37-29, in the second round; lost to Dudley, 28-7, in the third round. (Right) The Ravens claimed the school’s first Southwestern 4A title and won the most games and first playoff game in school history. They’ll have a huge bulls-eye on their back, but with (back row, from left) Brandon Luallen, Kaylan Love-Soles and (front row) John Henderson and Elijah Jett they’ll be ready to defend their crown.
The Breakdown
( ) Pre Snap Read
The Ravens, the 2013 Southwestern 4A conference champs, enter the 2014 season after their most successful run in school history. They’ve got a target on their backs and returning quarterback Naiil Ramadan and running back Elijah Jett will be key for this up-and-coming power.
Page 22 • FALL 2014 • CAROLINA WEEKLY NEWSPAPER GROUP
Photo by Andrew Stark
Defense The Pirates will utilize McCarthy, Dose, Donahue, Vagnone and Hogan some on the defensive side of the ball and Montanna Propes and Piero Lopez will round out the line. Jake Hair heads up the linebacker corps which will be a good one as Bryson Traywick and Collin Henderson are both talented options who will see plenty of time and be heavily involved in the offense. The safeties are set with Chase Suznevich and Walker Griffin and Dennis Marble and Jerran Caldwell will patrol the corners.
Special Teams Brandon Haas is the kicking specialist and will be a big weapon in the Pirates special teams. Barrett, Suznevich and Marble are the leading candidates for the return duties, but there are a number of capable guys waiting in the wings. – Andrew Stark
Porter Ridge The Pirates were in the hunt for the Southwestern 4A conference championship all year in their first season in the league. This year they hope to remain in the top half of the standings with (from left) A.J. Barrett, Adam Chase, coach Zach Bevilacqua, Colin Henderson, Walker Griffin and Brian Newsome leading the way. Photo by Andrew Stark
Quick Hitters Coach: Zach Bevilacqua, first season at Porter Ridge, second overall (1-10) Returning starters: Offense, 6; Defense, 7
2013 record: 8-5, 4-2 2013 playoffs: Beat Watauga, 3226, in the first round of the N.C. High School Class 4A playoffs; lost to Rocky River, 37-29, in the second round.
Conference: Southwestern 4A
Offense Ramadan rushed for 60 yards and two touchdowns on four carries to put the Ravens on the map in a historic 28-21 win over reigning 4-AA state champion Butler last season. Fowler’s two-quarterback system produced big results for the Ravens, but they’ll rely solely on Ramadan to run the offense this season after graduating Christian Allen-Brown – a challenge Ramadan is up for. Ramadan will look to Jett (705 yards, seven touchdowns), Rashad Brannon (622 yards, six touchdowns) and newcomer Elijah Henry, who Fowler is high on, when the Ravens turn to the ground game. South Carolina commit Jaire Alexander (464 yards) will be a capable target in the air alongside Kaylan Love-Soles, who returns as a starter, and receiving threats Graylon Sturdivant and Carlin Williams. Up front, the Ravens will lean on Armando Nava at guard, four-year starter Michael Dunleavy at center and a host of others who are vying to fill out the line, including Austin Weber and Dashawn Dixon.
Defense Darian Washington, the Ravens’ Defensive Player of the Year last season, will return and anchor an athletic line that will have to rely on strength to make up for their size. He’ll be helped up front by Deon Damon, David Craig, Kevin Edwards, Brandon Luallen and Xaxier Wilson. The Ravens seem to always have a smothering defense and this year shouldn’t be any different with a strong front four and Alexander at cornerback – where the future Gamecock will look to continue what he started last year, recording 48 tackles, seven interceptions and 13 pass deflections. He’s joined by Tyrien Joye
and Jakeenan Whitmore at safety and Phillip Clay and Love-Soles, who will play corner. The Ravens linebacking corps could be a little shaky after graduating two key linebackers in high-volume tacklers Caleb Brown and Danny Dunning. But they return John Henderson (69 tackles) and Aubrey Alexander on the outside and what Fowler said is a core group of capable guys coming up from JV including Tyron Vannoy, Bryson Adams, Larry Blanton and Tim Thompson.
Special Teams
The Ravens will have a strong kicking game with Jonathan Phifer returning to handle field goals, punting and kickoffs for his junior season with Alexander and Brannon handling return duties. – Hannah Dockery
In the spotlight
Naiil Ramadan In his first year at Rocky River after transferring from West Charlotte, Ramadan split time at quarterback threw for 1,086 yards and four touchdowns and ran for 334 and 10 scores. The keys to the car are all his this year and he’s set to have a huge season leading the Ravens’ balanced offensive arsenal.
Photo by Andrew Stark
Pre-Snap Read
The Breakdown
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Football Night in Southern Mecklenburg
total transformation big man on campus:
Jaire alexander by Hannah Dockery hannah@thecharlotteweekly.com
Jaire Alexander had all the right ingredients to be one of the best wide receivers in the state when he arrived at Rocky River. He has blazing speed, is a savvy route runner, has reliable hands and possesses a knack for finding open spaces in the defense – a coach’s dream. As a freshman and sophomore on the varsity team at West Charlotte, Alexander worked tirelessly honing his skills to be the best receiver he could be. So when he transferred to Rocky River at the start of last season, thinking he’d continue solely at receiver, it came as a bit of a shock when coach Jason Fowler wanted the 5-foot-11, 170-pound Alexander to play defensive back. “When I got to Rocky River, they told me they needed some DBs,” Alexander said. “I thought, ‘No way. I’m not sure if that’s something I want to do.’” But Fowler and his team were convinced and pushed Alexander to take on a role he’d never played before. At first he wasn’t happy about it, but Alexander trusted his coaches and knew that if his team needed him as a defensive back, he could step up and perform. It wasn’t long before Alexander’s instincts and athleticism kicked into overdrive in his new role, even surprising himself with the easy transition. Alexander stepped up against the run, quickly became one of the Ravens most capable tacklers in his new position and, with his roots as a receiver, knew the tendencies of the position as he quickly turned into a ball-hawking defensive back. “I do what’s best for the team, and they needed me at DB,” he said. “I was a little stiff at first but started to like it. It gives me the ability to score and make tackles and play defense and change the game. “Just a week after I started playing I went home, went on YouTube and watched a bunch of back pedals, one on ones and just got better at it. It changed my life for the best.” But it wasn’t just Alexander’s life that was changed. The Raven defense became one of the most feared in the Southwestern 4A conference last season as Alexander teamed with Lamar Hood, Cordell Forest, Darin Washington and linebackers Danny Dunning and Caleb Brown. Their stifling defense helped lead the Ravens to the school’s most historic season, going 11-3 to claim the Southwestern 4A conference championship over perennial powers Independence and Butler while making a run in the playoffs for the first time in school history. Alexander helped anchor the blue-collar Ravens defense, helping to shut down passing attacks while grabbing seven interceptions, making 47 tackles and leading the Ravens on
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an eight-game winning streak – accomplishments he never dreamed of as a receiver at West Charlotte. “Since transferring to Rocky River, I could tell there was something about the atmosphere,” he said. “I knew it as soon as I got here. It felt like something good was going to happen. In the weight room and on the practice field, you could tell that everyone wanted to win and everyone was on the same page. We all worked hard together. We shed blood, sweat and tears – all that.” Alexander still spent time at receiver, where he led the Ravens aerial attack with 464 yards and was insanely dangerous on the return, as well, where he amassed more than 700 yards and scored seven touchdowns. But it was at defensive back where he realized he could take his talents to the next level. Alexander went from a relatively unknown receiver to a highly-recruited defensive back after the Ravens’ prolific season. The three-star recruit quickly raked in offers from Ball State, Charleston Southern, Elon, the Charlotte 49ers and Furman before landing his biggest offer from South Carolina – an offer he couldn’t turn down. “Getting offered (from South Carolina) was a great feeling,” Alexander said. “I felt like the coaching staff really cared for me and really felt like I could do something special there. “I’ve played football since I was 7,” he said. “One day after
a hard practice, my dad asked me in the car, ‘Do you want to be good or do you want to be great?’ I told him I wanted to be great. He told me all the necessary steps I needed to take in order to be great and I’ve followed them since then and haven’t looked back. Now I can see that’s paying off.” But Alexander has his senior year ahead of him before he begins what has all the makings of becoming an illustrious career at South Carolina. And with the way the Ravens took the Southwestern 4A by storm last season, it’s likely that they’ve got a target on their backs as they enter the 2014 season with Butler and Independence aggressively looking to regain their former spot atop the rankings. Alexander is ready to meet those high expectations by producing eye-popping numbers for his senior year and leading the Ravens to another conference title. The once quiet guy in the background is now the vocal leader the Ravens need to carry them through to another record-breaking season. “Sometimes, you have to set standards,” he said. “Once you start getting all this recognition and show how good you can be, the pressure is on. Everyone looks up to you. I always wanted to be a leader, always. My dad told me that if you’re not first, you’re last and so being a leader comes naturally. “I like being vocal and I like being a leader. That can change a game in itself, when you have a vocal leader who’s positive and doesn’t produce trouble on or off the field. It’ll change the game.”
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Football Night in Southern Mecklenburg
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Football Night in Southern Mecklenburg
2014 Football Schedule August
S m tw t f s 4 5 3 10 11 12 17 18 19 24 25 26 31
6 7 13 14 20 21 27 28
1 2 8 9 15 16 22 23 29 30
november S m tw t f s
3 2 9 10 16 17 23 24 30
4 11 18 25
5 6 7 12 13 14 19 20 21 26 27 28
1 8 15 22 29
THURSDAY, AUG. 21 Mallard Creek vs. Charlotte Christian FRIDAY, AUG. 22 Butler at West Charlotte East Meck at Berry Independence at South Meck Myers Park at Olympic Carolina Pride at Union Academy Richmond at Rocky River Summerville at Providence Weddington at Ardrey Kell SATURDAY, AUG. 23 Charlotte Catholic at Providence Day FRIDAY, AUG. 29 Providence Day at Ravenscroft Ardrey Kell at Myers Park Mallard Creek at Butler Charlotte Latin at Cox Mill Northwestern at Charlotte Catholic Carolina Pride at Carolina Gladiators Winston-Salem Prep at Charlotte Country Day North Meck at Independence Providence at East Meck Rocky River at South Meck FRIDAY, SEPT. 5 Ardrey Kell at Marvin Ridge Carolina Pride at Anderson Cavaliers Butler at Greensboro Page Charlotte Christian at Victory Christian
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September october
S m tw t f s 7 14 21 28
1 2 8 9 15 16 22 23 29 30
3 4 5 6 10 11 12 13 17 18 19 20 24 25 26 27
S m tw t f s
6 7 5 12 13 14 19 20 21 26 27 28
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december S m tw t f s
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3 4 5 6 10 11 12 13 17 18 19 20 24 25 26 27 31
Winston-Salem Prep at Charlotte Latin Davidson Day at Providence Day Charlotte Country Day at Charlotte Catholic East Meck at North Meck Independence at Olympic Porter Ridge at Providence Rocky River at Sun Valley South Meck at Myers Park FRIDAY, SEPT. 12 Charlotte Catholic at Mallard Creek Cuthbertson at Ardrey Kell Harding at East Meck Hunter Huss at Rocky River Carolina Pride at Marvin Ridge Charlotte Country Day at Buford Charlotte Catholic at Mallard Creek Ravenscroft at Charlotte Latin Charlotte Christian at John T. Hoggard Independence at West Meck Mt. Tabor at Butler Myers Park at Providence South Meck at Porter Ridge SouthLake Christian at Providence Day FRIDAY, SEPT. 19 Hough at Independence Marvin Ridge at Rocky River Hillside at Charlotte Country Day Monroe at Charlotte Christian North Meck at Myers Park Victory Christian at Providence Day Fork Union at Charlotte Latin Olympic at East Meck Richmond at Butler Carolina Pride at Lewisville
FRIDAY, SEPT. 26 Butler at Garinger Charlotte Latin at SouthLake Christian Carolina Pride at GiveNGo Fellowship Providence Day at Cuthbertson Charlotte Catholic at Berry Liberty Christian at Charlotte Christian Independence at East Meck Myers Park at Rocky River Charlotte Country Day at Ravenscroft Olympic at Providence South Meck at Harding West Meck at Ardrey Kell THURSDAY, OCT. 2 Ardrey Kell at Olympic Carolina Pride at Providence Day Berry at South Meck East Meck at Butler Porter Ridge at Independence Providence at West Meck Rocky River at Garinger Weddington at Charlotte Country Day FRIDAY, OCT. 3 Harding at Charlotte Catholic Charlotte Latin at Charlotte Christian FRIDAY, OCT. 10 Davidson Day at Charlotte Country Day Berry at Providence
Butler at Myers Park Carolina Pride at Charlotte Christian Charlotte Catholic at Olympic East Meck at Rocky River Providence Day at Charlotte Latin Harding at Ardrey Kell West Meck at South Meck FRIDAY, OCT. 17 Ardrey Kell at Providence Charlotte Christian at Charlotte Country Day Independence at Garinger Cannon at Charlotte Latin Rabun Gap at Providence Day Porter Ridge at Myers Park Rocky River at Butler South Meck at Charlotte Catholic Carolina Pride at Sandhill Titans West Charlotte at Hopewell FRIDAY, OCT. 24 Ravenscroft at Charlotte Christian Berry at Ardrey Kell Butler at Porter Ridge Charlotte Catholic at West Meck Charlotte Country Day at Providence Day Carolina Pride at Peculiar Generation Lions Charlotte Latin at Davidson Day Garinger at East Meck Myers Park at Independence Olympic at South Meck Providence at Harding
Garinger at Myers Park Carolina Pride at Buford Charlotte Christian at Providence Day Providence at South Meck Rocky River at Independence Charlotte Latin at Charlotte Country Day FRIDAY, NOV. 7 Charlotte Catholic at Providence Independence at Butler Myers Park at East Meck Porter Ridge at Rocky River South Meck at Ardrey Kell First round NCISAA playoffs FRIDAY, NOV. 14 First round NCHSAA playoffs NCISAA state championships FRIDAY, NOV. 21 Second round of NCHSAA playoffs FRIDAY, NOV. 28 Third round of NCHSAA playoffs FRIDAY, DEC. 5 Regional championships, NCHSAA playoffs SATURDAY, DEC. 13 NCHSAA state championships
FRIDAY, OCT. 31 Ardrey Kell at Charlotte Catholic East Meck at Porter Ridge
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Football Night in Southern Mecklenburg
two minute drill Philip Walton Walton is one of three returning starters on the Knights offensive line and a big reason for the first consecutive state titles in school history. The 6-foot-7, 260-pound N.C. State commit would like nothing more than to leave with another title, but is thinking about his future off the field, as well.
You’re a big kid, do people often ask if you’re older than you are? I get that all of the time. People don’t believe I’m in high school. You only return four or five starters on offense and three on the offensive line. What does that mean to be the experienced group who will lead this team? It means everything. We have some serious talent and we have some vocal guys on the team, so we have to step up and take everyone with us. Being an offensive lineman is a selfless job at times. What’s it like for you? The line is where it all starts. We have to anchor it down to make sure we start everything and finish everything, too.
We have to make sure we’re opening the holes for (Elijah Deveaux) and just keep it going. You’ve committed to N.C. State for next fall. What was it that drew you there and what are you most excited about being a future Wolfpack? They were the first school to offer me and I kind of realized that’s where I want to be because I want to go into farming after everything. The agriculture school is excellent and meeting all of the coaches and the other commits who I think are awesome sold it for me. What are your future plans in farming? Whenever my football career ends, I see myself in North Carolina getting as big of a farm as I can and growing it as much as I can. What would finishing your career with a third straight state title mean to you? That would be amazing to leave our high school careers with a dynasty like that – it would be awesome. – Andrew Stark
kelvin hopkins Being the quarterback at a successful program like Independence is a big deal, but if anyone can handle the responsibility, it’s Kelvin Hopkins. The Army commit threw for more than 2,700 yards and tossed 29 TDs last year. With another season like that, he’ll cement his legacy in the Patriots’ storied football history. Hopkins is poised to make his senior season his best yet. Last year I thought you were the heart and the soul of your team. How has your role changed this year? It’s pretty much the same role. It’s my last year, so stepping in as a senior it’s amplified by 20, because everyone wants to go out in a blaze of glory. I’ve definitely stepped it up and am expecting
more out of myself and my teammates and (will) push everyone harder. Around Independence I know 8-5 isn’t viewed as a successful season. What’s going to be different this year? We got a new coaching staff and a lot of them played for Independence. They bring that attitude of the 109-game win streak (in the early 2000s) and bring that swag back to the ‘I’. That’s really what changes is you can see the confidence level in the way we carry ourselves at practice and the whole team is just up. The coaches are helping us get to where we want to be. To be the quarterback at Independence is a special thing.
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What does it mean to you? It means a lot. I got to start off as a sophomore. That was a lot of pressure because Chris Leak, Joe Cox and my quarterback coach Darryl McFadden came before me. It’s something you have to carry – it comes with great responsibility but it’s also an awesome thing. Committing to Army and the discipline it takes to play football go hand in hand. What are you most excited for that? I think just the life opportunities and seeing where it takes me. I get to play football at a major D-1 college and I’m just excited for the journey and seeing where it can take me. – Andrew Stark
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Football Night in Southern Mecklenburg
You already know what these southern Mecklenburg superstars can do on the gridiron, but we take them off the field and introduce you to a different side of them in a quick-hitting series of rapid fire questions.
Anthony Ratliff-Williams Butler’s Anthony Ratliff-Williams possesses all of the skills that make a successful football player as his game is the perfect blend of size, speed, a rocket for an arm and football savvy to lead one of the state’s best teams. He threw for 30 TDs, passed for 2,300 yards, ran for 1,443 and rushed for 20 TDs as a junior, but the North Carolina commit is set on having an even bigger year and leading his team back to the state championship game. What are your goals on the field for your senior season? Personally, I definitely want to lead my team the best way I can as an individual along with the other seniors I’m coming out with. Of course everyone wants a state title, but I do want us to get back to the state championship game. I want to make one more run with the guys before I take it up to Chapel Hill in January. What’s it like to be a part of the Butler-Independence rivalry? It’s been an honor to play in it. Watching highlight Ardrey Kell has three talented running backs who all contributed last year and are ready for another big season. With the 6-foot-5, 295-pound North Carolina commit Mason Veal, opening running lanes for them, the Knights are expected to take a major jump this season, and the big shoulders of Veal should go a long way in getting them there. What made you decide on North Carolina? It wasn’t just one thing; it was a lot of things. I love Coach Kap (Chris Kapilovic), Coach (Larry) Fedora and the coaches that recruited me, especially Coach Kap who is the O-line coach. I love being up there and the atmosphere on game day and even regular days. I would go and watch them practice and loved the feel of being at Chapel Hill. It allows me to pursue educational opportunities that I want, as well. What are you hoping to study in college? Hopefully political science and
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then go to law school after. What’s been your favorite memory playing at Ardrey Kell? My first home varsity game. We were playing Weddington and it was our fans blackout night. It started absolutely pouring but they let us play through it. It was a big win at home, we had a ton of fans out there and I got to play my first game with all my teammates. It was a lot of fun.
films and seeing those guys from Independence that are really talented, I can definitely say it’s been a great feeling to be a part of that. Especially after last year’s 43-42 victory – it doesn’t get any better than that. What made you want to be a Tar Heel? Definitely the comfortable feel of it. It’s a second home to me. It’s a great feeling and meeting Carolina fans and talking to Coach (Gunter) Brewer and Coach (Larry) Fedora, overall it’s just a win-win situation. With football, they run a spread offense just like my high school and the education – you can’t go wrong with it. What are your interests besides football? Football takes up most of my time but I really love drawing. My sister (Cayla) and I do a lot of artistic work. She’s attending Central Piedmont Community College but is going to transfer to UNC-Charlotte and major in art. – Hannah Dockery
Mason Veal
Outside of football, what else are you involved in? Well with the law thing, I was involved in Mock Trial for three years. I couldn’t do it this year because I’m going to graduate early and go up to Chapel Hill in January. I’ve been part of chamber choir the past two years. My sister is an amazing musician and she leads worship at my church. My mom is the director of services, my sister is head of worship and my uncle is the lead pastor so I’m pretty involved. – Hannah Dockery
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Football Night in Southern Mecklenburg
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