Teens Help Others, Accept Challenge To Succeed
Ricebirds, Hornets Open Season Friday Page 1-B
Page 3-B
2 015
LL FOOTBA W PREVIE Ricebirds El Campo
•
rnets | Louise Ho
Copyright ® 2015
Volume 131 Number 48 • Wednesday, August 26, 2015
58 Pages, 3 Inserts
75¢
TION • • • SPECIAL SEC
EC, Louise kicking off ‘15 seasons Special Section Looks At Predictions, Changes & More While there can be many sources of disagreement and discord these days, one topic will probably always have a way of bringing folks together. And in this part of the world in particular, that topic is football. With the high school football season officially beginning at the end of this week, your hometown newspaper is proud to present the latest edition of the Leader-News Football Preview. The 36-page, glossy keepsake magazine profiling the El Campo Ricebirds and Louise Hornets appears inside this edition of the Leader-News. “This has been one of our annual sections that we’ve really put a lot of emphasis on improving and growing in recent years,” said Jay T. Strasner, publisher. “What was an 8-page tab just four years ago has really blossomed into a publication that we hope our readers and advertisers look forward to and enjoy each year.” Included in this year’s edition are season profiles on the Ricebirds and Hornets, along with team photos, individual mug shots, photographs of coaches as well as feature articles. An exclusive Q&A with former Ricebird and current TCU AllAmerican center Joey Hunt is included in the publication as well. “Last season both the Hornets and Ricebirds went three rounds deep in the playoffs and look to have talented rosters again,” Strasner said. “We’re happy to be able to share in the excitement of our area football teams with the communities that we serve. We look forward to another thrilling season of football and are pleased to usher in the season with this magazine.”
INSIDE: VIEWPOINT......................................Page 4-A OBITUARIES.....................................Page 9-A SPORTS.............................................Page 1-B LIFESTYLE.........................................Page 3-B CROSSWORD...................................Page 8-B CLASSIFIEDS & REAL ESTATE........Page 9-B
LOCAL WEATHER Wednesday Mostly Sunny DAY: 0% NIGHT: 0%
HIGH: 95º LOW: 66º
Thursday Sunny DAY: 0% NIGHT: 0%
HIGH: 95º LOW: 71º
Friday
Sunny DAY: 0% NIGHT: 0%
HIGH: 95º LOW: 70º
Saturday Mostly Sunny DAY: 0% NIGHT: 0%
HIGH: 93º LOW: 72º
Last Week: Avg. High: 91º • Avg. Low: 73º
RAIN GAUGE
Last 7 Days............................. 1.26 In.
Last 30 Days........................... 1.89 In. Same Time In '14...................... 0.61 In.
Year To Date......................... 33.42 In. Year To Date '14..................... 20.61 In. Data Collected by LCRA at El Campo Memorial Hospital
BURN BAN LIFTED COUNTY’S MEAN KBDI: 397 Burn Ban is put into effect when the mean KBDI reaches or goes above 500.
Curbside reycling program delayed By SHANNON CRABTREE scrabtree@leader-news.com
The city curbside recycling initiative won’t kick off as early as first hoped, largely due to this summer’s concerns over brush pickup. But, City Manager Mindi Snyder said, she’s confident the green effort will get under way within the next six months. “That is definitely the intent and we are trying to make it work,” she told the Leader-News, adding contract talks with Progressive Waste Man-
agement, the city’s garbage collector, continue. “Once we reach a modified agreement, then the 90-day period to order and distribute the bins would begin.” With the change, each customer will be issued a blue polycart to be used for recycling and will retain the green cart for standard trash service. Residents would then receive one standard trash pickup and one pickup for recycling each week. The time needed to get the bins in place likely puts the start date in early 2016. “I don’t see them wanting to start it during
the holiday months when the volume is normally high for trash,” Snyder said. The new service will raise city utility bills by 30 cents each month. El Campo residents currently pay $23.63 a month for Progressive crews to collect twice a week. That rate hike had been set to coincide with a water/sewer increase which will appear on bills in November, if approved by City Council during the budget process now under way. (See RECYCLING, Page 10-A)
Back To School
FOGGY MONDAY MORNING: After being dropped off in front of the El Campo Middle School campus on a foggy morning, students head for the front of the building for their first day of school Monday. Pictured (l-r)
are (front) seventh grader Kaden Alcalais and sixth grader Alexia Alcalais; (back) eighth grader Christian Garcia and Rodrico Bazan. L-N Photo by Quala Matocha
Public school students return to classes By JODY LARIMER reporter@leader-news.com
School’s back in session and officials are reporting a smooth start to the 2015-16 year. Of the 4,123 students enrolled at El Campo and Louise ISDs, 4,010 actually attended classes the first day. At Myatt, 599 of 653 showed up and Principal Mauri Couey reported a great start. “Lots of smiles, a couple of tears,” Couey said. Traffic is typically more congested on the first day, as parents walk their children to class
Changes Announced In Pick-up/Drop-off Procedures that day. “Myatt wants to thank our parents for their support and help with getting the 2015-2016 school year off to a super beginning,” Couey said. At Hutchins, 516 of the 540 enrolled students attended the first day.
“Hutchins had an excellent first day,” Principal Alicia Stary said.” The 24 students who did not show most likely transferred or moved, she added, and records have not been requested yet. “We ask parents to continue to be patient with us while our routines and procedures are taught this week,” Stary said. “The students did an outstanding job with dismissal today (Monday) and we hope to see that continue this week, along with the pickup line speeding up.” The story was similar at Northside Elemen(See OPENING DAY, Page 8-A)
Public says no during first hearing on tax rate By SHANNON CRABTREE scrabtree@leader-news.com
Members of the El Campo public stood before Council Monday night, asking them to reconsider a proposed eight-cent tax hike. The proposed rate, resident Steven Staff told Council, represents a 15.9 percent increase from last year and a 23.1 percent hike over the 2013 levy. And while seniors enjoy a property tax freeze, he said, they still pay via higher costs throughout the community as stores, landlords and others recoup dollars paid in taxes. “The bottom line is high tax rates hurt everyone in El Campo. Everyone,” Staff said. “Something needs to be done. This rate is too high.” If ultimately approved, the staffrecommended rate would increase city’s tax levy from 51.064 cents per $100 in property to 59.177 cents per
$100 in taxable property. That would mean about an $81 increase on bills next year (using a home valued at $100,000 as an example). Resident and businessman Donnie Roddy suggested Council delay a new police, fire and EMS building (please see related story) as well as other projects. “And feeder roads? That’s absolutely ludicrous to offer up that money (an $8 million local pledge),” he said, adding that while they would be helpful, other funding sources should be available. The two, along with two others, spoke during a scheduled public hearing on the proposed tax rate. Council did not respond. A second hearing is set for Monday, Sept. 14 during the regular 6:30 p.m. Council session. (See NO PAY RAISE, Page 10-A)
Speaking Out
L-N Photo by Shannon Crabtree
El Campo resident and businessman Donnie Roddy shares his thoughts opposing the city’s proposed eight-cent tax hike Monday during a public hearing before Council.
SPORTS
www.leader-news.com
El Campo Leader-News • Wednesday, August 26, 2015
Page 1-B
sports@leader-news.com
Time to
2015 Wharton Co. Football
get STARTED Pre-season complete, EC turns attention to opener
By JAY T. STRASNER publisher@leader-news.com
Ready For More
L-N Photo by Jay T. Strasner
Ricebird senior running back Kevin Dove takes a hand-off during preseason practice earlier this month. El Campo will open the season at home against Gregory-Portland Friday night.
New year. New coach. New roster. So that means a different look for the Ricebirds as they open the season hosting Gregory-Portland Friday night, correct? Not so fast, Ricebird fan. While this may be the first game with Wayne Condra at the helm of the El Campo football program, the long-time assistant learned a lot from his predecessor, Hall of Fame Coach Bob Gillis. Mainly, he says he learned how best to win football games. And that’s with a punishing ground game on offense and an equallystout identity on defense. So while senior Ernie Arrambide at quarterback, speedy receivers
DeMarcus Wilson and Wesley Arrambide on the outside and tight end LaTrent Greely give the Birds weapons in the passing game, don’t look for EC to suddenly become a pass-oriented offense. “We do have that ability to throw the ball and throw it deep,” Condra said. “But we’re not going to change our main offensive philosophy, and that is to run the football. With that being said, we’ll take what the defense gives us. If we need to throw, we’ll do it. But our philosophy is not changing. I think you saw last year that we were still able to run the football very effectively even when teams tried to really stack the box against us.” Returning after stellar junior seasons are Kevin Dove, last year’s district MVP and tailback Tae Har(See BIRDS, Page 12-B)
Gregory-Portland @ El Campo 7:30 p.m. Ricebird Stadium BY THE NUMBERS:
4 22 2
EC home games this year
Seniors on the roster
New jersey number for All-State RB Kevin Dove
1st
Game under new Head Coach Wayne Condra
Louise looking to build on momentum from last year Bloomington @ Louise 7:30 p.m. Hornet Stadium BY THE NUMBERS:
8 25 4
Hornet wins in 2014
Players on the roster
Potential All-District skill players for the Hornets in 2015
1
Returning district MVP from last year, QB Eric Lucio
By JAY T. STRASNER publisher@leader-news.com
Getting all hands on deck will be the concern this week as Louise heads into the season opener at home against Bloomington. LHS downed Bloomington 34-6 last season and David Lucio, secondyear head coach, said his team is eager to get off to a good start again. Louise expects to hear a ruling of the eligibility of Woodsboro transfer Jonathan Dabelgott and hopes to have lineman Matt Martinez back from an ankle injury and lineman Matteo Munoz back from vacation this week. The absence of the two linemen in Thursday’s scrimmages with Industrial and Boling affected the team’s offensive output, Lucio said. “I was concerned after the game about how we did up front,” Lucio said. “It shows that we’ve got to stay healthy and also keep working on our depth. We also had some penal-
ties and some bad snaps that hurt us. When Friday gets here, we’ve got to have those things corrected because mistakes like that can really hurt you.” Lucio said the Hornet staff “didn’t open up the playbook” at the scrimmage and expects better offensive execution on Friday. Bloomington should be improved from last year’s squad, Lucio said, and should “give us a fight.” “The games are for real now,” Lucio said. “We sat down as a staff and reviewed what we’ve liked so far out of what we’ve done and figured out our starting groups. Looking at Bloomington, they’ve got a big, athletic quarterback. They’ll jump between a Wing T and some Spreadtype stuff. They’ve got good athletes and have shown an ability to throw the ball downfield. We’ve got to be ready for what they bring to the table.” (See LOUISE, Page 2-B)
“L” For Louise
L-N Photo by Jay T. Strasner
Senior Hornets Tyler Collins, left, and Eric Lucio hold up the letter “L” during the meet the Hornets event in Louise during the pre-season. LHS will begin the year at home against Bloomington Friday night.
Volleyball continues improvement in tournaments By JAY T. STRASNER publisher@leader-news.com
The Ladybird volleyball team continued to stay busy in the early part of the schedule, as the team competed in the Victoria Invitational last week. On Thursday, El Campo began the tournament with pool play wins over Stevens and the Victoria East JV. EC downed Stevens 25-21, 14-25, 25-16 and swept pas the Vic East JV, to finish first in the pool. HARP Kaylynn Harp tallied 19 set assists against Stevens while Darian Dutcher posted 14 kills and Fran Powers had 13 digs and 6 kills. “Stevens, a school in San Antonio, was a very scrappy team and pushed us to three games,” EC Head L-N Photo by Jessica Rodriguez Coach Melissa Popp said. “I think we Powerful Serve gained a lot of confidence on ThursLadybird Fran Powers prepares to serve the ball during a recent home match. El day which gave us a good start for Campo traveled to Weimar for a pre-district match Tuesday night. Friday.”
Following Thursday’s pool play, on Friday EC was placed in a pool with Porter, a school from the New Caney district, as well as district foe Bay City. The Ladybirds narrowly lost to Porter 13-25, 25-13, 23-25. Powers led the way with 15 kills in the match, while Dutcher had 15 digs. Harp added TRISKA 13 set assists. “We had a close first match with Porter and had a few calls that did not go our way,” Popp said. “We lost the first game and then came back and played really, really well in the second game and then our third game we lost by just two points. We’re learning a lot about ourselves and trying to find confidence and team chemistry on the court.” El Campo bounced back to get past Bay City 25-11, 25-21 in the second match Friday. Dutcher served 5 aces, while Powers had 8 kills. “Bay City was an opportunity for
us to see where we match up against them, so when we face them later on in the season we will know how we match up,” Popp said. The Bay City victory put EC into Saturday’s double elimination gold bracket. Saturday’s matches saw El Campo fall 22-25, 23-25 to Porter and 23-25, 10-25 to Taft as the Ladybirds were eliminated from the event. Powers notched 9 kills and 9 digs against Taft. In the Porter match, Dutcher had 14 digs, while Harp and Powers finished with 9 each. Helena Triska posted 8 digs. El Campo will travel to Weimar on Tuesday before heading to George Ranch for another tournament next weekend. “We have a lot of preseason games on the road,” Popp said. “I think it’s a good opportunity for us to get used to playing on the road because we are hopeful of making playoffs and making playoffs usually entails playing on the road. So our pre-season gives us the opportunity to get used to playing in multiple settings with multiple officials.” Many matches in enemy territory also prepares the team for the dis(See LADYBIRDS, Page 2-B)
Page 2-B
El Campo Leader-News • Wednesday, August 26, 2015
SPORTS BEAT —Ladybirds still gaining experience in early season (Continued from Page 1-B) trict grind, Popp said. “I think this team is going to grow a lot over the next couple of weeks as we are getting ready for district,” she said. “In the first three weeks of the season I’ve seen a lot of growth and a lot of potential. We are taking steps forward and getting better but I think this team is much more capable than what we have shown so far this season.” Popp said the sub-varsity teams were showing improvement as well during the early season. “The freshman and JV teams have not had as many opportunities to play yet but they are scheduled to play in some upcoming tournaments as well as regular preseason games,” Popp said. “They have been working hard in practice in preparation for the rest of the season as well as preparing to play at the next level.
Serene Escapes
Custom Pools and Landscapes
Specializing in Swimming Pool Construction & Remodeling Decks • Gazebos • Firepits Outdoor Kitchens Outdoor Lighting
L-N Photo by Jay T. Strasner
Running The Offense
J e f f Wa d s w o r t h - O W N E R
F i g h t i n ’ Te x a s A g g i e C l a s s o f ‘ 9 9
Ricebird quarterback Ernie Arrambide prepares to execute a handoff during a recent El Campo practice. The Ricebirds will begin the season at home against Gregory-Portland on Friday.
—Louise ready for first test at home (Continued from Page 1-B) Defensively, Lucio expects BHS to operate out of a 3-4 base. “They’ll throw some cover-2 at you and go cover-4 if they see you’re throwing it a lot,” he said. “They’re pretty sound and have mixed things up from last year.” Conditioning will be a factor in the heat of Friday’s game, Lucio said. Forecasts show temperatures could be close to 90 degrees around kickoff. “It’s a concern without a doubt,” Lucio said. “We’re not where we want to be, but we demand a lot out of kids because we have a lot of 2-way players. The heat will affect everybody this time of year, so you’ve got to stay hydrated and watch out for cramps.” Lucio said going against a pair of 3A teams last week should help Louise understand the demands of the season. “Boling has some really physical kids and their quarterback is a tough guy to bring down,” Lucio said. “He could have a big year for them. Going against those teams showed us how teams are going to come at you this year. We won’t surprise people and it was good for the kids to
taste some of that.” Special teams can be the difference in pre-district contests, and Lucio said the Hornets have been working hard on those facets of the game. “Coach (Joe) Bill has that starburst scheme on kickoff return that he brought from Van Vleck,” Lucio said. “It can be effective because you don’t know which of three guys has the ball if we do it the right way. We’ve got some speed we can put back there, especially with Dabelgott if he’s in there. Carlos Garcia is going to handle punt returns. You’ve got to kick it and snap it the right way and we’ve been working
on those things.” Opening the season at home on the heels of an 8-win campaign in 2014 has Hornet fans eager to begin, Lucio said. “Last year the kids wanted to dump water on me after every win,” Lucio said. “After we got to 3-0, some of them started crying. I told them that we’ve got to get used to winning and make it a habit. That’s what we’re hoping for this year and we’re ready to get things started the right way Friday night in front of our home fans.” Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. at Hornet Stadium.
281-797-1670 • jeffwads.se@gmail.com C E RT I F I E D B U I L D I N G P RO F E S S I O N A L Association of Pool & Spa Professionals
The Magic of Reading... Enter a World Where Anything Can Happen
Freedom Isn’t Free...Thank A Veteran
El Campo Library 200 W. Church St. 979-543-2362
For life insurance, call a good neighbor. Mary W Johnson CLU ChFC, Agent
101 W First Street El Campo, TX 77437 Bus: 979-543-1664
mary@marywjohnson.com Se habla español
Call me and I’ll help you choose the right life insurance for you and your family. We put the life back in life insurance. ™
®
State Farm Life Insurance Company (Not licensed in MA, NY, or WI), State Farm LIfe and Accident Asurance Company (Licensed in NY and WI), Bloomington, IL
1311000
Page 12-B
El Campo Leader-News • Wednesday, August 26, 2015
SPORTS BEAT
Roof Leaking?
Quality
Locker Room INSIDER
www
Need A New Roof& ?m ,W orkmanship
Need Repairs?
at e r i a l s
. whARtoNRoofiNg .
com
100% f i n a n c i n g a va i l i b l e - $0 D o W n f r o m $54 a s l o W a s 5.9% o r 12 m o . s a m e a s c a s h
mo.
979-267-1769
1506 N. Alabama Rd Whar ton, Tx
Position: WR/DB Most inspirational people in your life: My Mom, God Hobbies: Sports, work Dream date: Beyonce’ Favorite meal: Fried chicken I’m scared of: Heights Pregame ritual: Listen to worship music & pray Superstition: Lucky rubber band Hidden talent: I can dance
Makyle Garza
Aaron Aguilar Position: Defensive end Most inspirational people in your life: Coach Roberts Hobbies: Video games Dream date: Watch Netflix Favorite meal: Pizza with ranch I’m scared of: Drowning Pregame ritual: Listen to music Superstition: Always tie my right shoe first Hidden talent: Boxing
Position: ILB Most inspirational people in your life: Doc Easter & my dad Hobbies: Fishing, Hunting Dream date: Miranda Lambert Favorite meal: Steak & potatoes I’m scared of: Heights Pregame ritual: Hang out at the Birdhouse, lucky tape, writings Favorite movie: 8 seconds Hidden talent: Studying
Back to school... Are you READY yet? We want to help!
We offer installment loans from
$256 to $1,315* Contact us today at (979) 543-5341 to discuss a loan for you. We Do Taxes | Hablamos Español
1266 N Mechanic St El Campo TX 77437
Jacob Supak
www.security-finance.com *All loans are subject to credit limitations and our underwriting policies, including verifiable ability to repay. Actual loan proceeds may vary based upon loan terms. Dollar amounts are rounded to the lowest whole dollar and are subject to change.
—Birds welcome Wildcats (Continued from Page 1-B) ris. The duo combined to rush for more than 3,000 yards and will be the focal points of the Ricebird attack again this year. It’s important to remember as well that Condra was the offensive coordinator last season who called all those running plays for an offense that averaged more than 38 points per game. In order to keep the rushing attack going, however, a physical offensive line is required. Condra said El Campo has worked in the pre-season to determine it’s best five in the trenches, but don’t be surprised Friday night to see some rotation among the spots. “Last week against Waller we saw some good things and had really good effort from our linemen,” Condra said. “We shored up some things in our pass protection. I think we’ve got some guys who can play, it’s just a matter of coming up with the right mix.” Last season, the Birds hit the road and returned home with a 41-19 win over the 5A Wildcats. But G-P used that loss as a launching point, improving as the season went on and going three rounds deep in the playoffs. “They really built up a lot of momentum after we played them last year and made a real good playoff run,” Condra said. “They’ve got a lot of returners who remember that game last year and a lot of experience. I think you’re going
NO
to see a hard-nosed football game Friday night.” Because 5A and 6A teams in Texas are allowed to undergo organized spring football drills, Condra said teams in those classifications can have an early-season advantage “It could be,” Condra said. “But our kids have been working hard and I know they’ll be ready to go.” The strength of the Wildcat team will be in the trenches, Condra said, and the new Ricebird starters in the line will be tested. “They’ve got good size and a lot of experience,” Condra said. “That’s a big plus for them.” Offensively, Condra said he expects G-P to be “very similar to what we’ve seen from La Grange and Waller” in terms of a running game with playaction threats. “On defense, it’s hard to know for sure based on their scrimmages, hard to really know until Friday night what their true identity is going to be this season,” he said. “It’s one of those things where you’ve just got to see them live and make your adjustments in the game.” Primarily, Friday’s game is being viewed as the “first step” in what Condra and Ricebird Nation hopes is a very long season. “There are a lot of reasons to be excited,” Condra said. “It’s always nice to have that first game at home in front of your fans. We’re excited to get going.” Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. at Ricebird Stadium.
Big City Medicine
in the
Now Seeing Patients at
Gulf Coast Medical Center
Salman Aly, MD Primary Care Physician
Sarfraz Aly, MD
Infectious Disease Specialist
• Board Certified in Internal Medicine • Board Certified in Infectious • Geriatric & Hospital Medicine Diseases & Internal Medicine • Botox, Dermal Fillers, Low T • Hyperbaric & Advanced Wound Care Syndrome • Hyperbaric & Advanced Wound Care • Travel Medicine
Nitesh Vachhani, MD Jason Willis, DPM Richmond Gastroenterology Associates
• Board Certified Gastroenterologist • Endoscopies and Colonoscopies
Board Certified Podiatrist
• Foot & Ankle Surgery
(979) 282-6151 (979) 282-6151 (281) 342-9530 (281) 240-3338
All Physicians Now Accepting New Patients! Also admitting patients from the Emergency Room Cancer Treatment Center • 10141 U.S. 59 • Wharton, Texas, 77488
D O A N S E T L A L E I O B T Y T D DEA O B
NOOOOBODY! www.DonElliott.com The New Class of World Class
L ...
SERVING WHARTON COUNTY SINCE 1978 | 1225 N. RICHMOND • WHARTON TX 77488 | 979-532-2150
2015
FOOTBALL PREVIEW El Campo Ricebirds | Louise Hornets
• • SPECIAL SECTION • •
We’re Cheering For A Great Season !
2015-2016 ECHS DERBY DOLLS The 2015-16 El Campo Derby Dolls include, front row from left: Jae Avendano, Shelby Sabrsula, Kassidy Pietsch, Adrienne Wigginton, Kayla Legler, Aliah Rodriguez, Elizabeth Wilson, Michelle Sutton. Second row: Samantha Avendano, Priscilla Pena, Dollie Nunez, Alexis Flores, Haley Contreras, Amanda Gomez, Amber Contreras, Mikayla Hildebrand. Third row: Chloe Janak, McKenna Kosanke, Marrisa Martinez, Kamryn Munos, Brooklyn Webster, Hana DeLeon, Alyssa Pena, Jackie Mireles, Amani Randall, Kristyle Phynon. Fourth row: Vanessa Padilla, Delaine Valenzuela, Nicole Cano, Alyana Garcia, Chelsey Ott, Kierana Manis, Meredith Gwosdz, Arranek Bluntson, Za’Qeria Coleman. L-N Photo by Jessica Rodriguez
ECHS VARSITY VOLLEYBALL
ECHS VARSITY CHEERLEADERS
The 2015 El Campo Ladybird volleyball team includes, front row from left: Darian Dutcher, Hope Williams, Melea Socha, Emily Strnadel, Helena Triska and Essence Allen. Back row: Manager Shea Slattery, Kaylyn Harp, Lannah Korenek, Head Coach Melissa Popp, Fran Powers, Lauren Rod and Macey Knesek. L-N Photo by Jay T. Strasner
The El Campo varsity cheerleaders for 2015-16 include, front row from left: Lacey Nielson, Hannah LeJeune, Malia Willis, Megann Faas, Faith Cunningham. Second row: Skylar Hallinger, Brett Crivellari, Victoria Zalman, Cameron Crivellari, Elyssa Smith, Natalie Mireles, Hannah Petty. Third row: Christine Hunt, Mackenzie Harfst, Zona Martin, Faith Wagner, Sponsor Pam Hunt, Mascot Akiah Randall, DeAndra Gallegos, Lauren Rod, Kiara Romo. L-N Photo by Jessica Rodriguez
Good luck to all area teams 2 EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
www.fsblouise.com EL CAMPO BRANCH 1808 West Loop • (979) 543-2274
LOUISE BRANCH 206 North Street • (979) 648-2691
WHARTON BRANCH 505 E. Boling Hwy • (979) 532-0404
Never Stop
MICKELSON PUMP SHOP, INC Good Luck
Ricebirds!
Pumps • Gearheads • Duetz Engines Sonar Jet Well Cleaning • Underground Survey Camera Sales • Installation • Service
Cheering!
We
Dancing!
We
Tumbling!
We
Ricebirds!
We
Hornets!
X‐Treme Jazz
We
502 E. HILLJE • 979.543.1722
NIGHT NUMBER: (979) 543-6495 (979) 543-5281 • 3002 N Mechanic Street
PROUD SUPPORTER OF
Our Hometowns Everywhere. facebook.com/stripesstores twitter.com/stripesstores stripesstores.com
Improving S
ometimes it’s lableled was remarkable. as coach-speak. And it also ended up being the last year as Ricebird head “Take it one day at a time. coach for Bob Gillis, which Give 110 percent effort.” was shocking to most of us. We’ve all heard the sports As we cliches before. sit on the But cusp of when it’s AY the 2015 closely season, we analyzed TRASNER can only – no matwonder ter your INK BY THE BARREL what lies endeavor ahead. – taking Will things one step at a time, day by day, truly the Ricebirds be able to defend their district championship, is the best way to approach make a long playoff run, get things and to make improvepast top teams like Navasota ments. and Carthage and play for a Looking back, although nobody could have fully antici- Class 4A Division I title at pated it during the pre-season, Houston’s NRG Stadium? Can Louise improve upon 2014 shaped up to be quite the the wild success of 2014 and landmark year in Wharton win a district title for the first County high school football. time in what has to be deEvery team in the county cades? reached the playoffs, which These answers and many was significant. more will be revealed as the Louise won eight games teams make their way through and made one of the biggest (Continued Page 18) turnarounds in Texas, which
S
J
T.
The 2015 El Campo Ricebird & Louise Hornet
Football Preview
GOOD LUCK BOYS! THE LOAN $TORE 215 W. Jackson El Campo 979-543-2500
4407 Avenue H Rosenberg 281-232-2274
Carmen Dominguez, Manager Personal Loans • Electronic Tax Filing • Notary • Se Habla Español Phone Applications Welcome
is a special publication of the El Campo Leader-News. The El Campo Leader-News is published Wednesdays and Saturdays. For information, contact 979-543-3363 or visit us online at www.leader-news.com. COPYRIGHT 2015 EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
3
Ricebird Overview
His Show NOW Condra ready to lead Birds in 2015 season The big news for the El Campo football team entering 2015 is old news by now. That refers to a change in head coaches following the retirement of Bob Gillis, Hall of Fame coach, and the promotion of top assistant Wayne Condra. Inheriting a salty roster of skill talent at a tradition-rich program and following in the footsteps of a beloved veteran is not lost on Condra. Instead, he says, he embraces the opportunity. “What makes El Campo so special are the kids and just the community,” he said. “We have such hard working kids. They’re gonna give you everything they’ve got. It doesn’t matter what you’re doing – FFA, academics, band, cheerleading, drill team. It flows throughout the school district. There’s such strong support. When kids know they have that support it helps drive them.” Condra is no stranger to football
IN THE HUDDLE Wayne Condra, El Campo head caoch, directs the offense through another play during pre-season drills. Condra takes over this season after the retirement of Bob Gillis. tradition. He’s a former 3-year letterman at Tom C. Clark High School in San Antonio. “We played both offense and defense back then,” Condra smiled. “There were no specialists.” He performed at a high level in high school and earned a scholarship to Texas Lutheran, where he was recruited as a quarterback but switched to strong safety. Following a successful four years at TLU, Condra worked at Hondo ISD for a semester, then got the call to re-
turn to Clark High, where he worked as an assistant for the next four years. “It was an opportunity to coach at your old school, which I jumped at,” he said. “Look at our staff now, we have three to four guys who played here who are coaching here now. It’s special to be able to come back. Condra then moved on to Victoria High School in 1990, where he served as defensive coordinator until 1998 (Continued Page 16)
Seaman’s Plumbing, LLC (979) 543-1304 • 2006 N. Wharton St
GOOD LUCK
BIRDS!
MPL38426
4 EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
GOOD LUCK this football season!
820 W. Loop St., El Campo, TX 77437 • (979) 543-8152
STOPage - N - LOCK or ts t S ni U
5434731
Locked Gates 24-Hour Entry Electricity Security Lights Monthly Rentals Climatized Storage Constant Temperature No Humidity/Sweating
s! go bird
All Sizes Available!
402 W. Monseratte & 911 W. Jackson
GOOD LUCK
BIRDS!
WESLEY ARRAMBIDE
ERNEST ARRAMBIDE
PHOTO NOT AVAILABLE: Antwan Greer
Screen Printing • Custom Embroidery Promotional Items • Team Uniforms
979-578-0465 109 W. Jackson • El Campo, TX sales@thescreenstop.com
Let’s Go Ricebirds!
DANNA INSURANCE
(979) 543-9719
1707 W. Loop, El Campo, TX 77437
101 E. CALHOUN • 979.543.2381
WE SUPPORT ALL AREA FOOTBALL TEAMS!
PROUD TO SUPPORT ALL AREA ATHLETES! WE ARE
TO SUPPORT El PROUD Campo Ricebirds THE YOUTH OF WHARTON COUNTY! Louise Hornets Good Luck to all exhibitors St.andPhilip have a safe &Pioneers fun time at the fair!
TRISKA FUNERAL HOME Family owned and operated since 1929 JIMMIE & CECI TRISKA third generation owners
612 Merchant Street • El Campo • 543-3681
EL CAMPO PALACIOS HUMBLE FULLSHEAR
www.csbec.com 800-841-0294
EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
5
Ricebird Offense
Physical
STYLE Dove, Harris lead ground attack
W
ith hurry-up, no-huddle and Spread-type offenses so popular in Texas high school football, El Campo can be described as a dinosaur with its offensive attack. But this is no lazy, vegetarian Brontosaurus over at Ricebird Stadium. Rather, it’s more of a vicious Tyranosaurus Rex, ripping through opposing defenses with long run plays and punishing linemen. “When you don’t see an offense like what we do, it’s hard to prepare for,” EC SENIOR LEADER Head Coach Wayne Condra said. “A lot of defenses nowadays gear up to stop the Ricebird Ernie Arrambide operates the El Campo offense during a pre-seaSpread. Then we come right at you and son practice. The senior will be the starting quarterback this year. play very physical. We come in and, for example, can mix it up with multiple tight him credit for. He gets in the open field been working hard,” Condra said. “He’s ends, it makes it hard and adds a different and he can turn it up a notch.” really focusing on the things he needs to element to the game. Look at Bellville who Classmate Tae Harris rushed for more do to make sure the offense runs smoothruns the Slot T, people don’t see it. Port than 1,000 yards in 2014 and is the perfect ly. Ernie knew what he needed to work Lavaca, they’ve got that Air Force option, complement to Dove’s physical style. Har- on and that’s what he’s done. Our No. 2 Georgia Tech-type stuff. We’re all unique ris is also a Division-I college recruit, hav- quarterback will be Deaderick or Brock and it makes it hard to defend when you’ve ing committed to Texas State this spring. Brandl.” got three days to work on it.” “Tae is the quick guy,” Condra said. The offensive line returns one starter Headlining the El Campo offense “He hits the hole fast and you’ve got to from last season in junior Reid Zboril. is running back Kevin Dove, a 6-0, get there fast or he’s gone. We are very A number of candidates will be asked to 250-pound bruiser who gained more than fortunate to have both of them coming step to the forefront to ensure the EC run2,000 yards on the ground last season, back.” ning game stays sharp in 2015. including 260 yards against eventual State Junior Deaderick Hollaway will also “We’ve got several guys we’re looking champ Navasota. Dove has already verget carries out of the backfield after comat,” Condra said. “Zboril is a returning bally committed to attend Texas El Paso peting for the starting QB spot. starter. He’s had a great couple weeks of next season. “He’s really come on the past few practice. LaTrent Greely, we’ve moved “Kevin is the power guy,” Condra days,” Condra said. “He’s really been a him out to tight end and, I tell you what, said. “But he’s also got such great vibright spot as far as what he’s brought to he’s really done a great job. He’s another sion. He can see the hole and make those the table for us and adds quality depth.” guy who’s sneaky fast and has great cuts when he needs to. That’s one of the Under center this season will be senior hands. He’s had a great summer and carthings that makes him special. He not Ernie Arrambide, after winning the job in ried it over to fall practices. only can come in and run over you, but pre-season. “Rhett Spenrath’s really been workhe’s got the hips to make those cuts. And “Ernie had a great summer and from ing hard at center. Tyreese Johnson, Josh he’s got more speed than what people give the end of school until now has really Cantu, Chris Melchor, Raul Gonzalez, 6 EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
Dawson Mach, Micah McComb, are others we’re looking at. Then you’ve got Reed Spenrath at tight end. Jurvon Bryant, Brandon Williams and Ty Lillie can help us too. A lot of those guys play defense for us. We want to stay fresh, so having depth will help us.” At receiver, DeMarcus Wilson adds a speed element while Wesley Arrambide, who dunked in a basketball game last season, brings athleticism. “Demarcus is playing our Z spot,” Condra said. “He’s an athletic kid, has great speed and poses a deep threat. The X receiver is Wesley Arrambide. He is very athletic. Brock Brandl is also gonna work at receiver. He showed a lot of good things at 7-on-7. He runs good routes and, by playing QB, knows how to find the open area.” The Ricebirds averaged 38 points per game last season, so if they are able to defend their District title, putting up points will once again be an emphasis. “There are some top teams in our region who are in our district,” Condra said. “Stafford is loaded with talent. West Columbia has a lot of kids coming back. Bay City, you can never count them out. Brazos has a lot coming back. Needville made the playoffs last year. It’s gonna be a fight each week, so we have to be ready.”
GO
RICEBIRDS!
J.J. CROIX CFP®,CPA
WEALTH CONSULTANT
KIM STAFF
OFFICE MANAGER
SHERRY STANLEY
CLIENT SERVICES ASSOCIATE
PLAN. GROW. PROTECT. ENJOY! 601 E. JACKSON • 979-543-5556 • CROIXFINANCIAL.COM
Securities and Financial Planning Offered Through LPL Financial. Member FINRA/SIPC.
CRAIG GEORGE EC Quarterback Coach “He’s going to work with quarterbacks and help in the secondary. He brings that knowledge of being a Ricebird QB himself. He has a good understanding of what we try to do.” - Wayne Condra
GO BIRDS & GIG’EM AGGIES!
The
Travel Store
MELISSA GUTTENBERGER
223 East Jackson Street • 979-543-7802
GOOD LUCK THIS season A Boys! A
RICE FARMERS COOP INC. 106 Market Street, El Campo
(979) 543-6753
721 Hwy 60 N, Bay City
(979) 244-4677
“Your Friend in the Tire Business” EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
7
8 EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
2015 EL CAMPO RICEBIRDS
65
AARON AGUILAR
19
6
ZARIAN BAYLOR
14
60
JOSH CANTU
4
5
WESLEY ARRAMBIDE
25
BJ BAYLOR
BROCK BRANDL
34
BRANDON BROWN
61
JURVON BRYANT
JERRIC CHAPMAN
36
DAMYEN CRUZ
80
SPENCER DAVID
ERNEST ARRAMBIDE
EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
9
12
JOBOUS DAVIS
17
AGUSTIN DIAZ
2
KEVIN DOVE
30
NERY ENRIQUEZ
28
GRANT FUECHEC
11
MAKYLE GARZA
56
RAUL GONZALEZ
32
DAMOND GRANT
22
LETRENT GREELY
3
ALONTAE HARRIS
40
NICK HARRIS
86
LARRY HAYNES
84
FELIPE JARAMILLO
72
NOAH JASEK
42
RYON KORENEK
10
DEADERICK HOLLAWAY
10 EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
77
TY LILIE
75
HARRISON LINZZA
44
RICHARD LORMAND
50
DAWSON MACH
9
KYLE MAMEROW
74
MICAH MCCOMB
62
CHRIS MELCHOR
82
XAVIER MIRELES
83
NIKOLAS PANAGIOTOPOULOS
24
TAYTON PRIESMEYER
8
CLAY RAWLINGS
88
REED SPENRATH
55
RHETT SPENRATH
21
20
JACOB SUPAK
46
ILLARIO UNREIN
RILEY STOCK
EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
11
85
KYLER VALENTA
7
54
TYRESE WASHINGTON
DEMARCUS WILSON
73
66
BRANDON WILLIAMS
REID ZBORIL
A
IM FOR A PERFECT SEASON!
28268 US 59 HWY, EL CAMPO • 979-543-8442 12 EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
| www.ElCampoCycle.com
Ricebird Defense
Tradition of
EXCELLENCE T
he Ricebird defense enters the season looking to replace seven graduated seniors from a defense that led them to the Regional semis a year ago. Such is life in high school football, Alan Roberts, EC defensive coordinator said. “We’ve got to have some young kids step up,” he said. “But that’s kind of the ebb and flow of high school football. Kids graduate and you have new faces every year. When we went to State in 2012, we had some guys who had a little bit of experience. The next year, we had to completely re-tool it with some young kids. We’re looking forward to watching some of these kids step up and be the next man up this year.” One of the top returning defenders for El Campo is Kevin Dove, a disrupting defensive lineman who is also expected to help out at linebacker. “Kevin, defensive tackle is his position but we’re also experimenting with him at middle linebacker,” Head Coach Wayne Condra said. “It’s a different game at linebacker. We do a lot
of slanting at DL, but at LB he’s reading the football more.” Jacob Supak and Riley Stock will see a lot of time at inside linebackers for EC this season. “Supak is a lot like his brother,” Condra said. “Riley moved to middle from outside and has really taken it on and done good things for us.” Defensive line, much like offensive line, could see a rotation of sorts. Dove and defensive end LaTrent Greely cause a lot of havoc when playing side by side. Reid Zboril and Chris Melchor return to the line after making several dynamic plays in 2014. “Josh Cantu and Tyreese Johnson will play a lot at tackle,” Condra said. “Chris Melchor also. When Kevin needs a break, Chris will go in there. He played big for us last year. We expect big things from him again.” At outside linebacker, Zarian Baylor and Jarric Chapman will hold the fort. BJ Baylor also is vying for time. At cornerback, look for (Continued Page 19)
ELLIOT BABCOCK EC Secondary Coach “He didn’t get the opportunity to play secondary here but was a really good quarterback. My first year here I would have loved to have him at free safety though. He’s high energy and brings good knowledge and excitement to the game. Kids can relate to him because he played here.” -Wayne Condra
PROPER FORM Ricebird defenders Jacob Supak, left, and DeMarcus Wilson team up to stop a La Grange ballcarrier during preseason scrimmage action. Coach Alan Roberts and his crew look to continue the tradition of outstanding El Campo defense this season.
EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
13
Let’s Go ALL THE WAY!!! J. MICHAEL APPLING & ASSOCIATES Michael & Dianne Appling 601 E. Jackson • 979-543-5388
BACKIN’ OUR BOYS! GO RICEBIRDS! Complete Class Schedule Online: www.northsidecenter.com
NORTHSIDE EDUCATION CENTER (979) 543-6750 • 707 FAHRENTHOLD • northside_center@yahoo.com
Good luck to all of our area football teams! We repair all brands of desktop & laptop computers!
Tree“YourHouse Furniture hometown store with more”
THE COMPUTER CENTER
Appliances • Mattresses • Home Decor
979-543-1949 COMPCENTER.NET
116 E. 1st Street | 979-543-1691 | www.treehousefurniturestore.com
THIS SEASON!
www.UnitedAgGeneralStore.com 907 S. WHARTON, EL CAMPO • 979.543.7756 14 EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
GO RICEBIRDS!
GOOD LUCK
119 N. MECHANIC
2015 RICEBIRD COACHING STAFF El Campo coaches include front row, from left: Gabe Cavalos, Matthew Schoener, James Harp, Craig George, Matt Sandoval and Matt Sohrt. Middle row: Victoria Morris, Elliot Babcock, Kevin Gordon, Head Coach Wayne Condra, Jesse Galvan, Trent Popp and Alan Roberts. Back row: Bob Killam, Mark Woods, Zeke Kuehn, Russell Krenek, Herman Mauch, Doc Easter and Kerry Brandl.
good lucK to all area teams!
Enjoy Your Pre-Game Dinner at Prasek’s! 29714 US 59 Hwy • El Campo • 979.543.8312
El Campo Bowling Center featuring
The Strike Zone Bar & Grill
GO BIRDS!
806 WEST LOOP • 979-543-9999 • www.ecbowl.com
The Strike Zone
Good Luck to the El Campo Ricebirds & Louise Hornets!
GOOD LUCK HOMETOWN FOOTBALL TEAMS! 979-543-8884
3703 FM 2765, El Campo • 979-543-2348
coby@rodinsurancegroup.com
EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
15
NEW HEIGHTS Senior DeMarcus Wilson leaps to haul in a pass during pre-season drills. Wilson will add an explosive option at wideout for EC this year.
(Continued from Page 13) until Victoria consolidated. In 2000, Condra was named head coach at Victoria Memorial. That’s when Gillis arrived as athletic director. “I knew him previously,” Condra said. “I was quite fortunate to have him come in as AD and work with him. It was a good situation.” When Gillis returned to El Campo as head coach, he could think of only one man whom he trusted to run his defense – and that was Condra. “It was a great opportunity to come here and work with great kids and coaches,” Condra said. “I was very familiar with El Campo. I remember back in 1990 at Victoria, we had a scrimmage here. At that time, I was like ‘where in the heck is El Campo?’ It didn’t take long to figure out this program was serious about football. It was quite a scrimmage when we came here, let me tell you. “Over the years, I got to know a lot about the people
and city. So it wasn’t a hard sales pitch when Coach Gillis asked me to come here. Since then, my family and I have made some real fond memories. We’ve had some great kids come through here.” Seeing the handwriting on the wall in regards to his impending retirement, Gillis asked his defensive coordinator to take over play calling duties on offense. It turned out to be a successful project, as the 2014 EC offense racked up 38 points per game and the Ricebirds won 11 of 13 games, reaching the Regional semis. “It was only a little different last year as OC,” Condra said. “Calling defense, it helps you call offense because you have that mentality of what an offense can attack. It helps. We coach both sides of the football here anyway. So I was very familiar with everything.” Ricebird fans can expect more of what they saw last season, Condra said, despite the change in head coaches.
“I have the same beliefs as Coach Gillis did,” he said. “As far as offense, you’ve got to have a strong running game with play action passes coming off of it. Being able to control the game whether you need to speed it up or slow it down is important. I still say the key to a great football team is you’ve got to play solid defense. I think it’s a lost art. To be successful, you’ve got to limit people from scoring, obviously.” Heading into 2015, there may be a new man in charge, but the Ricebirds plan to very much carry on the established tradition. “The coaching business lost a great man when Coach Gillis retired,” Condra said. “He’s still a big part of what coaching around here is all about. I hope I’ve learned a lot of things that he’s instilled here and hope to carry it on this season and beyond.” - Jay T. Strasner
SUPPORTING RICEBIRD FOOTBALL
FOR 77 YEARS!
Wharton County Electric Cooperative
1815 E. Jackson • 979-543-6271
www.wcecnet.net
16 EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
Laura’s Cafe PROUD TO SUPPORT OUR HOME TEAMS!
CAR CARE
THIS SEASON
501 N. Mechanic • 979.543.6781
GOOD LUCK
HOELSCHER
1616 S Mechanic • (979) 578-9030
PrintBizStuff.com 979-543-9498 | 103 E. Monseratte
Looking for the best Sports coverage around?
TURN TO US!
First Place Sweepstakes 2013 Texas Press Association First Place Sweepstakes South Texas Press Association 2014 and 2015 First Place Sweepstakes Texas Gulf Coast Press Association 2014 First Place Sports Photography 2015 Texas Press Association First Place Sports Photography 2014 Texas Gulf Coast Press Association First Place Sports Coverage 2014 South Texas Press Association
EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
17
2015 EL CAMPO RICEBIRD VARSITY El Campo Ricebird 2015 varsity football team members are (Row 1, l-r) Damyen Cruz, Ryon Korenek, Jacob Supak, Josh Cantu, Illario Unrein, Xavier Mireles, Brandon Williams, Grant Fuechec, Alontae Harris, Nery Enriquez, Richard Lormand and Clay Rawlings; (Row 2) BJ Baylor, LeTrent Greely, Brandon Brown, Nikolas Panagiotopoulos, Noah Jasek, Rhett Spenrath, Wesley Arrambide, Harrison Linzza, Larry Haynes, Reed Spenrath, Raul Gonzalez, Micah Mc(Continued from Page 3) the 2015 campaign. As we head into this year, dozens of interviews were conducted and there was one over-riding theme in terms of planning success. Joey Hunt is on the cusp of a magical college football season, both individually and collectively, for his TCU Horned Frogs. But the former Ricebird isn’t looking ahead. Day by day. Step by step. Wayne Condra has earned the right to coach his beloved El Campo Ricebirds
The Gift Spot 101 S. Mechanic 979-543-4438
this season. While others look ahead to Carthage or Navasota, Condra is wisely looking at Week 1. For us at the Leader-News, our vision of success is suprisingly similar to that of a football squad. We have several folks playing important roles to help ensure we meet goals and succeed at what we do. This year’s Football Preview section marks the first time in our newspaper’s history that we’ve published a glossy keepsake magazine for our pre-season football publication. Just five years ago, actually, this publication was an eight-page tab-sized
HAVE A GREAT SEASON,
RICEBIRDS!
18 EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
newsprint production. It’s exciting to look back and see the growth that’s occurred since then within our own team. First we bumped it up to 24 pages. Then 28 the following season. This year we decided on a magazine. We’ve pushed for growth, improvement and practiced hard as we continue to get better at what we do. Day by day. Step by step. We hope that our own fans – our dear readers and advertisers – are pleased with the results. May all area teams have a safe and successful 2015.
GO BIG RED!
Flowers Etc. & Gifts, Inc. 117 N. Washington • (979) 578-8400 Lisa Bubela, Owner - TMF
Comb and filmer Jace Ward; (Row 3) Spencer David, Kyler Valenta, Dawson Mach, Zarian Baylor, Jerric Chapman, Reid Zboril, Demarcus Wilson, Jobous Davis, Damond Grant, Makyle Garza, Kevin Dove, Deaderick Hollaway and Felipe Jaramillo; (Row 4) Tayton Priesmeyer, Tyrese Washington, Jurvon Bryant, Riley Stock, Ernest Arrambide, Brock Brandl, Kyle Mamerow, Chris Melchor, Agustin Diaz, Ty Lilie, Aaron Aguilar and Nick Harris. (Continued from Page 13) DeMarcus Wilson and Deaderick Hollaway to man the top spots, along with Wesley Arrambide. Tayton Priesmeyer will get the first shot at free safety. Roberts said the Ricebirds will once again operate out of a 4-2-5 base this season. “You have the best of both worlds with that scheme and can do a lot out of it,” he said. “You can have an eight-man front, a seven-man front or a six-man front. We have a base, but we’re able to adjust to formations. Football has changed the last several years. What you see on TV on Saturdays and Sundays primarily has trickled down to the high school level., and you’ve
got to be ready for all kinds of things.” Regardless of how the offense lines up, El Campo begins with a particular plan defensively. “Hey, you’ve got to be able to stop the run,” Roberts said. “With our defense, we hope to stop the run first. Spread-type teams that sling it around now, that can be a challenge, especially when you see the athletes that we face this year. We feel like with our front four and then with our linebackers, we’ve got a little bit of depth right now. We’ve created competition. By the time the season rolls around, we feel like we’ve got several kids who can do the job. We’re excited to see how they progress.” – Jay T. Strasner
GO GOOD LUCK 979.543.9600 • 201 S. Mechanic St
BIRDS!
This Season! - Herman & Katie Mauch
ALAN ROBERTS EC Def. Coordinator
“Hey, I’m a defensive guy for most of my career. If we can control that scoreboard, we can win some games.”
GO dawson mach!
Floral Gardens 802 W. Jackson • 543-2705 Allen & Peggy Halamicek, owners
EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
19
RICEBIRD FOOTBALL: IT’S IN OUR BLOOD.
P.O. Box 1541, El Campo, TX 77437 Phone: 979-543-1453 Fax: 979-543-1533
20 EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
Hornet Overview
Texas-sized
TURNAROUND Hornets counting on transfers, added strength to fuel 2015
D
avid Lucio’s little problem could turn into a huge advantage for the Louise Hornets this season. In addition to returning District MVP Eric Lucio at quarterback, the Hornet head coach has a pair of skill position players that are so identical, he oftentimes can’t tell them apart. For opposing defenses, that could turn out to be a nightmare. Eric Lucio and running back Blaine Machicek are both about 5-9, 200 pounds and extremely powerful – with each player able to squat press more than 500 pounds. In pads, it’s hard to tell them apart and they will run you smooth over. Likewise, Hornet receivers Carlos Garcia and Woodsboro transfer Jonathan Dabelgott are similarly built. Both around 6-0, 175 pounds, with dangerous speed and excellent hands,
they pose a problem in the passing game for the opposition. “It’s kind of funny because in practice Eric will make a play and I’ll go over there and say ‘great job Blaine’ and vice-versa,” the coach said. “And then one of our receivers will make a move and slice up our secondary and I’ll go over there and say ‘way to go Jonathan’ and it will end up being Carlos.” It’s a good problem to have for Louise this season, as the team looks to improve upon an eight-win season that saw them go three rounds deep in the post-season. “Last year, we really had to depend on Eric to make big plays for us because it seemed like the other kids weren’t quite ready to do that for us, especially at the beginning of the year,” (Continued Page 22)
ANOTHER STEP Senior Eric Lucio, the district MVP last season, looks to help the Hornets improve upon last year’s 8-4 record that saw Louise go three rounds deep in the Class 2A playoffs.
EXCITEMENT EVERYWHERE Happiness with Hornet football can be seen all over Louise these days. That includes LHS cheerleaders Amanda Lutringer, Shelby Koudela and Chloe Valcik, seen here rallying the fans at the Meet The Hornets event earlier in August.
GO HORNETS! GO BIRDS!
Country Bride
602-A North, Louise (979) 648-2333
HAVE A GREAT SEASON,
HORNETS!
RICE BELT WAREHOUSE, INC. www.ricebelt.com
EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
21
HOPE YOU HAVE A
“The difference between this year and last year is night and day. We’ve come a long way and want to go even farther.”
SPECTACULAR SEASON!
Robert R. Nursey, RFC
DAVID LUCIO Louise Head Coach
219 West Jackson • El Campo • 979-543-4350
Advisory services offered through Investment Advisors, a division of ProEquities, Inc., a Registered Investment Advisor. Securities offered through ProEquities, Inc., a Registered Broker-Dealer, Member, FINRA & SIPC. IVY LEAGUE is independent of ProEquities, Inc.
GO RICEBIRDS! LUMBER AND HOME IMPROVEMENT CENTERS
1504 NORTH MECHANIC • 979-543-1801
EXECUTIVESTITCHES.COM • 979-541-5757
good luck
birds!
R R&M & M FIREARMS (979) 543-6948
22 EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
David Lucio said. “But this year, we’ve got playmakers all over the place. That’s big because not only does it take the pressure off of Eric, but it also makes us so hard to defend. They won’t be able to key on one guy.” The Hornets will also be stronger in the trenches this season, following a spring and summer that saw a heavy emphasis on weight lifting. Sophomore Robert Martinez looks to start on the line, along with Tyler Collins at center. Matt Martinez is perhaps the largest Hornet and will hold down one tackle spot. Matteo Munoz and Jose Avalos round out the starting five for Louise, with Chris Espericueta also seeing time. Defensively, the Hornets have new assistant Mark Reynolds running things. Reynolds won a State championship as a player with Mart ISD and Lucio said his pedigree has the attention and respect of the Hornet players. Lucio said senior Ty Tucker is a potential All-State candidate. El Campo transfer Phillip Pinkston should also start, along with Cortez. Tarriq Barron, who had 4 sacks in the Falls City game last year, will terrorize opponents from the edge. Machicek and Lucio will man the linebacker spots, along with Cole Yackel in the Hornet 3-3 Stack base. Garcia, Dabelgott, Christian Cardenez and Ismael Mendez make up the back end of the Louise defense. “Our defense really came on last year, but I think we can actually be significantly better this year,” Lucio said. “Our front 8 can be phenomenal. Our linebackers are a little short, but they will hit you. We’ve got speed in the secondary and our line can be disruptive.” Overall, Louise is picked near the top of the district in many pre-season publications. Lucio said he embraces the expectations, but also knows how fragile a season can be, especially with a roster of 25. “I like our team, but it also kind of makes me nervous,” Lucio admitted. “Last year nobody expected anything from us. I mean nobody. I came in and told people we’d make the playoffs and everyone thought I was the craziest person in town. But then we went out and made a huge turnaround. Now everyone expects us to make the playoffs and maybe even win district.” What a difference a year makes. Two years ago, Louise couldn’t win a game. And now? Talk of a district title? That’s the impact Lucio has had on this town. “I’ve asked people when was the last time Louise won district,” Lucio said. “Nobody knows. Someone said maybe once in the 1960s. I don’t know how the season will end up, but I know two things. First, we’ve got to stay healthy. And second ... it really feels nice that our program has gotten used to winning.” – Jay T. Strasner
2015 LOUISE HORNETS The 2015 Louise Hornet varsity includes bottom row, from left: Carlos Garcia, Edwin Reyes, Philip Pinkston, Kam Johnson, Jase Bill, Ethan Bell, Blaine Machicek and Cole Yackel. Middle row: Matt Martinez, Zachary Janca, Kevin Rosas, Tyler Collins, Chris Espericueta, Ty Tucker, Tariq Barron and Ismael Mendez. Top row: Dustin Cruz, Jonathan Dabelgott, Robert Martinez, Jose Avalon, Miguel Montes, Mateo Munoz, Eric Lucio and Cristian Cardenas.
A Great At a
IMPLANTS • BRACES • COSMETICS
Providing patients with a smile they can be proud of - at a price they can afford. 979-543-ABBY • ABBYDENTAL.ORG 3703 FM 2765, STE. H (Across from El Campo Civic Center)
GOOD LUCK TO OUR GRIDIRON GLADIATORS. As we kick off another exciting football season, we wish the Louise Hornets and El Campo Ricebirds good luck and much success. We’ll be cheering for you all the way to championships!
CROWELL DRILLING COMPANY Water Wells Drilled And Serviced Since 1947
- LOUISE, TEXAS -
EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
23
2015 LOUISE HORNETS
63
JOSE AVALOS
23
TARIQ BARRON
12
ETHAN BELL
5
JACE BILL
40
FABIAN CARDENAS
72
TYLER COLLINS
10
JONATHAN DEBLEGOTT
57
CHRIS ESPERICUETA
8
CARLOS GARCIA
68
ZACHARY JANCA
JAKAMBRIEN JOHNSON
66
DUSTIN LUCIO
24 EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
82
7
ERIC LUCIO
6
BLAINE MACHICEK
75
MATT MARTINEZ
70
ROBERT MARTINEZ
29
ISMAEL MENDEZ
60
MATEO MUNOZ
25
PHILIP PINKSTON
21
EDWIN REYES
Photo Not Available: #65 MIGUEL MONTES
77
KEVIN ROSAS
54
TY TUCKER
CREATE A BUZZ
THIS YEAR HORNETS!
22
COLE YACKEL
GOOD LUCK THIS SEASON!
GO RICEBIRDS! GO HORNETS!
Sablatura’s Grocery 105 Market St. • Louise, TX 77455
(979) 648-2222
1707 N. MECHANIC • (979) 578-8882 EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
25
Be a winner on and off the field... Treat your girlfriend or boyfriend with the respect and consideration they deserve.
THE CRISIS CENTER Creating Hope FOR HELP, CALL 979-531-1300 or 1-800-451-9235
DUCKETT, BOULIGNY & COLLINS, L.L.P
Proud supporters of the El Campo Ricebirds and proudly serving the Texas Gulf Coast for over 65 years.
Attorneys At Law
PARTNERS
Ronald B. Collins John M. Merck Heath S. Radley Richard L. Kerzee Chris B. Elliott
OF COUNSEL James A. Bouligny
ADMINISTRATOR Monica Tegeler Bard
207 W. Jackson
26 EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
| 979-543-6845 | www.dbc-law.com
Locker room Insider
TAYTON PRIESMEYER Position: Safety Most inspirational people in your life: Doc Easter Hobbies: Sports Dream date: Long walks on the beach facing the sunset Favorite meal: #13 at Whataburger I’m scared of: Spiders Pregame superstition: Jump on one leg 7 times while saying the alphabet backwards Favorite movie: The Notebook
Position: Tight end/Defensive end Most inspirational people in your life: Mom Hobbies: Basketball, watching TV, going to the mall Dream date: Beyonce’ Favorite meal: Bacon Cheeseburger I’m scared of: Rats, clowns & Coach Roberts Pregame ritual: Have to think of a cartoon show that makes me laugh Hidden talent: I got hands like Odell Beckham Jr.
JOSH CANTU Position: DT/OL Most inspirational people in your life: Coach Harp, Condra, Roberts and Gillis Hobbies: Sports Dream date: Jennifer Love Hewitt Favorite meal: Steak & Mac N Cheese I’m scared of: Heights and Coach Harp Pregame ritual: Praying and listening to music Hidden talent: Being tall
LaTRENT GREELY
FOR FOOTBALL SCORES AND HIGHLIGHTS ON GAME NIGHT, FOLLOW THE LEADER-NEWS ON FACEBOOK & TWITTER!
EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
27
LOOKING TO CREATE A DISTRICT BUZZ The 2015 Louise Hornet coaching staff includes from left: Sam Murphy, Athletic Director Joe Bill, Head Coach David Lucio, Mark Reynolds and Manny Freeland.
GOOD LUCK TO ALL AREA TEAMS! El Campo Ricebirds ••• Louise Hornets ••• St. Philip Pioneers SUPPORTING RICEBIRD FOOTBALL THROUGHOUT THE AGES...
1301 N Mechanic St., El Campo • (979) 543-2200 28 EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
979-578-8601 | 306 N. Mechanic
FOCUSED
ON THE FIELD MARTINEZ TRADES CAMERA FOR TACKLES IN 2015 By JAY T. STRASNER publisher@leader-news.com
F
NO BOBBY BOUCHER
Louise sophomore Robert Martinez served as team cameraman for the Hornets last season when he was sidelined with a knee injury. After a summer of hard work and healing, he’s ready for a starting role.
GOOD LUCK
ALL AREA TEAMS!
ans of football and cinema will likely recall fondly the 1998 Adam Sandler film “The Waterboy.” The comedy depicts a Louisiana 30-year-old who is transformed from a mere sideline assistant to a college superstar. In Louise this season, a similar story can be told for sophomore defensive lineman Robert Martinez – except this version is far from a comedy. Rather, it’s a tale of kid who learned the intracacies of the game while being in charge of game films last season, then worked his way into a starting linemen this past summer. “It’s like getting a big-time transfer into our district,” Louise Head Coach David Lucio said. “We joked a little bit with him
GOOD LUCK THIS SEASON! PRESBYTERIAN PRESCHOOL & DAY SCHOOL
1807 N. Mechanic 979-543-3327
312 DEPOT • 979-543-7474
EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
29
GO BIRDS
Casa Hernandez 1010 West Loop • El Campo • 543-3266 Since 1983 • Original Tex-Mex Food
HORNET PRIDE! go hornets!
CZECH CATHOLIC HOME
about the Waterboy thing, but he’s really gonna be a kid that helps us in reality. We’re happy to have him and expect big things from him.” Martinez said he was able to get a unique view of the game while filming each contest from the press box area during the 2014 season. “It’s an important job to keep a video record of the games so the players can see what they did wrong and learn from their mistakes,” he said. “I know I learned a lot
“I started in December powerlifting. Every day I lifted weights. I never skipped a day. I came in and put in the work. I would never leave until I put the work in. My squat was 315 pounds when I first started. Now I’m doing 525 max.” -ROBERT MARTINEZ
248 Wisteria Lane, Hillje • 979-648-2628
Let’s Make Some Noise for Our Marching Bands! Thanks to our directors and band members for their musical talent and school spirit during football season and all year long!
706 W. Jackson 979.543.2928
www.collinsmusiccenter.com
Cannell and Ricebird Football, Two Traditions of El Campo Excellence! Cannell Air Conditioning and Heating 1006 E Jackson • (979) 543-6485
30 EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
hurt or just didn’t really like football. I’m trying to make up for that.” Joining the players for off-season workouts was the first step to making the Hornet roster. Being diligent pushed him over the top, he said. “I started in December powerlifting,” he said. “Every day I lifted weights. I never skipped a day. I came in and put in the work. I would never leave until I put the work in. My squat was 315 pounds when I first started. Now I’m doing 525 max. That’s a high increase.
last year. I saw where players took a wrong step or were out of position and my goal is to take what I learned and limit my mistakes this year. Not only was I recording, I was learning.” The defensive lineman always had an interest in football, he said, but an injury forced him off the field for his freshman season. “I couldn’t play sports last year because I had a knee that kept bothering me,” he said. “I kept telling the coaches that once my knee got better, I was going to play. I got my shot and now I’m a starter.” But it wasn’t an overnight transition, mind you. Martinez put in several hours in the off-season to add strength to his frame. He said he didn’t want to be just a camera guy who was on the team. He wanted to contribute. “I want to play. I want to make my family proud, you know,” he said. “Do stuff that most of my family couldn’t. Most of my brothers either got
On bench, I went from 175 to 235 December to May. I made big gains.” For any other students who may be on the sidelines or part of a team in a different capacity who are interested in making a similar jump that Martinez has, he provides very specific advice. “What you put in is what you get out,” he said. “I put in very hard work, that’s why I’m getting the reward of not only playing but starting. Work your hardest. That’s all I can tell you.” Following a year that saw the Hornets win eight games and go three rounds deep in the playoffs, Martinez said excitement around the Louise program is as high as it’s been since he’s been at the school. “We got some wins last year, and the team did really good,” he said. “So once we got wins, it made other kids want to be out here on the team. It was fun to watch last year and I’m ready to go be a bigger part of it for my sophomore year.”
Former El Campo standout Joey Hunt makes a call for the offensive line during a TCU game last season. Hunt enters the year as one of the best linemen in college football. Photos Courtesy TCU SID
Q&A
with Joey Hunt
(Editor’s note: Joey Hunt, a former two-time All-State lineman for El Campo, enters the season as one of the top offensive linemen in the country. His TCU team is also a pre-season favorite to contend for the National Championship. The Leader-News visited with the Horned Frog standout as he looks forward to the 2015 season.)
Q: What were some of your early memories of watching college football? What teams did you follow? A: The earliest game I can remember watching was the Miami vs. Ohio State National Championship game. I grew up watching UT my whole life. My dad went there. My mom’s dad played there. My grandma went there and my great-grandma did too. So I grew up watching them.
Q: At what point as a young player did you begin to think you would be talented enough to play college ball? A: I was always a good football player and loved the game since I started playing Pee-Wee at age 7. We used to raise steers for the county fair and they said the money went to college. I remember in probably like 6th grade getting upset because of my steer acting up. I told my mom I didn’t wanna do it anymore and it didn’t matter because I was gonna get a scholarship. Q: What are your strongest/fondest memories of high school in El Campo? A: I love El Campo and am so
thankful that my parents made the sacrifice of me transferring schools. My best memories are putting on that Red and White and playing under those Friday night lights. It’s something special. I’m truly thankful for all the support from everyone back home. Q: Describe the preparation you put in this summer to get ready for the season. What was your training schedule? A: As a team we work out Monday through Friday for a couple hours. I would do an extra hour after those workouts and sometimes another hour in the evening. Also I work out on Saturday and Sunday for an hour-and-a-half on my own.
EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
31
Q: What are your thoughts on the upcoming season? What’s it like to see TCU getting recognized as a pre-season Top 5 team and getting so much attention as a National Title contender? A: I mean, it’s pretty exciting but it really doesn’t mean much. We have to go out there and win games one week at a time. Q: You’ve been nominated for several of the top lineman awards heading into this year. What’s it like to have your name considered among some of the great players in college football history? A: It is pretty cool but I’m really focused on the season and team. Teams that win, they get awards usually. So winning is the goal. If awards come then great, if not then it’ll be alright. We’re just all focused on winning.
As he enters his final season at TCU, center Joey Hunt has been nominated for a number of top NCAA awards this year, including:
All-Big 12 Preseason First Team Center
Rimington Award Nation’s Top Center
Outland Trophy Top NCAA Interior Lineman
Wuerrfel Award Community Service
Q: When watching NFL games, who are some of the NFL centers that you watch or try to emulate? Which current or former NFL linemen are you a fan of ? A: Each game I watch the centers in the NFL just to see what they do. But I don’t really get to watch NFL games because we workout and practice on Sundays. Q: What are your plans after college? Would you like to play professional football if the opportunity comes along? A: I’m focused on this season and team but yes, my goal is definitely to be in the NFL. It’s been goal/dream since I was a kid. –Jay T. Strasner
Litigation • Family Law • Business Transactions Personal Injury • Real Estate • Criminal Law Wills / Probate / Elder Law
Supporting the Ricebirds for
43 YEARS!
DAVID ALLGAYER & JEFF ALLGAYER
Principal Office 101 W. Burleson Wharton, Texas 77488 OFFICE: 979-532-3871 FAX: 979-532-3508
By Appointment Only 118 W. Jackson, Ste. A El Campo, Texas 77437 979-543-5335
Se Habla Español
Rachel L. Rust
Audra B. Smith
Hilary N. Duncan Kari. D. Lutringer
178 DAM RD. • El Campo, TX 77437
979.543.7041 Philip J. Hundl
32 EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
John D. Perches
Larry E. Wadler
L. Ray Kerlick
GO RICEBIRDS! MIKESKA’S
DOWNTOWN • 218 MERCHANT • 979-543-5471 | HIGHWAY LOCATION • 979-543-8252
GO BIRDS! SOUTH TEXAS OIL & DISTRIBUTING 409 W Loop • 979-543-1791
GOOD LUCK RICEBIRDS! Phone: 979-543-3373 Cell: 979-541-7929 208 Farenthold St.
johnpettyrealtors.com
GOOD LUCK RICEBIRDS! Hope you have an awesome season!
L-Stop 411 N Wharton St. • (979) 543-7007
Good luck this season!
RANDY MATOCHA - OWNER
811 N. Mechanic, El Campo • 979.543.6676
GOOD LUCK AREA TEAMS THIS SEASON!
GO BIRDS 709 S Mechanic St. • (979) 543-7161
3413 W. Loop • 979-543-7286 EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
33
RICEBIRD SCHEDULE Friday, Aug. 28 @ 7:30 p.m. GREGORY PORTLAND (Home)
HORNET SCHEDULE Friday, Aug. 28 @ 7:30 p.m. BLOOMINGTON (Home) Friday, Sept. 4 @ 7:30 p.m. PETTUS (Away)
Thursday, Sept. 3 @ 6:00 p.m. WILLOWRIDGE (Away) Friday, Sept. 11@ 7:30 p.m. TOMBALL MEMORIAL (Away)
HOMECOMING
Friday, Sept. 11 @ 7:30 p.m. BURTON (Away)
Friday, Sept. 18 @ 7:30 p.m. WHARTON (Home)
Friday, Sept. 18 @ 7:30 p.m. KIPP HOUSTON (Away)
Friday, Sept. 25 @ 7:30 p.m. ST. PIUS (Away)
HOMECOMING
Friday, Oct. 2 - OPEN
Friday, Sept. 25 @ 7:30 p.m. TIDEHAVEN (Home) Friday, Oct. 2 - OPEN Friday, Oct. 9 @ 7:30 p.m. KENEDY* (Home) Friday, Oct. 16 @ 7:30 p.m. FALLS CITY* (Away)
PARENTS NIGHT Friday, Oct. 23 @ 7:30 p.m. RUNGE* (Home) Friday, Oct. 30 - OPEN Friday, Nov. 6 @ 7:30 p.m. YORKTOWN* (Away)
Friday, Oct. 9 @ 7:30 p.m. NEEDVILLE* (Away) Friday, Oct. 16 @ 7:30 p.m. STAFFORD* (Home) Friday, Oct. 23 @ 7:30 p.m. BAY CITY* (Away) Friday, Oct. 30 @ 7:30 p.m. BRAZOSPORT* (Away)
PARENTS NIGHT Friday, Nov. 6 @ 7:30 p.m. COLUMBIA* (Home)
Best of Luck to all the athletes in our MCMC Family! Kennemer, Masters & Lunsford, LLC CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
201 W. Webb, El Campo | 979-543-6836
34 EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
www.ecmh.org
NOW AVAILABLE
100 MB
HIGH-SPEED INTERNET
The Area‘s
Fastest Internet. Period.
newwavecom.com | 1.888.8NEWWAVE EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
35
FROM THE OPENING GAME TO THE FINAL GUN...
... WE’RE BEHIND YOU! • 979-543-3349 • MOTOR BANK www.NewFirst.com
EL CAMPO BRANCH 202 E. JACKSON
36 EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
205 EAST CALHOUN