L L A B T O O F EVIEW R P ts e n r o H e s i u 6 Lo 1 | 0 s d 2 r i b e c i R po m a C El
• • SPECIAL SECTION • •
We’re Cheering For A Great Season !
ECHS DERBY DOLLS Derby Dolls this 2016-17 school year are (Front Row, l-r) Kirby Chambers, Kalyn Jones, Briana Hernandez, Vicky Cortez, Jackie Mijares, Alyssa Pena, Selene Valenzuela, Chloe Janak (Web Master/Historian); (Row 2) Nicole Cano, Bethani Gold, Alexis Flores (President), McKenna Kosanke (Recording and Corresponding Secretary), Kamryn Munos, Ja’Liyah Levi, Mikayla Hildebrand; (Row 3) Sarah Morton, 1st Lt. Jae’ Avendano, Co-Captains Michelle Sutton and Elizabeth Wilson, Vanessa Padilla, Kelia Jasso, Brooklyn Webster; (Row 4) Jackie Granados, Zoey Zahn, Jr. Lt. Meredith Gwosdz, Jr. Lt. Kierana Manis, Sr. Lt. Shelby Sabrsula, Hana DeLeon (Vice President), Delaine Valenzuela; (Row 5) Lucia Mendez, Michaela Holt, Chelsey Ott, Shelby Linzza, Amber Sutton, Dierra George. Director is Jennifer Morton. Photo by Chris Barbee
ECHS VARSITY CHEERLEADERS
ECHS VARSITY VOLLEYBALL
Front row sitting: Natalie Mireles, Hannah Petty, Mascot Bre Berry, Ariana Rodriguez, Ashley Lilie. Middle row: Manager Kendall Kresta, Cameron Crivellari, Victoria Zalman, Ajalae Lacour, Elyssa Smith, Taylor King Back row standing: Emily Wilson, DeAndra Gallegos, Skylar Hallinger, Christine Hunt, Head Cheerleader Brett Crivellari, MacKenzie Harfst, Kiara Romo, Zona Martin, Lauren Rod. Photo by Photography by Susan
The 2016 El Campo Ladybird volleyball team includes, front row from left: Kaylyn Harp, Bryn Rod, Melea Socha, Reagan David, Peyton Stock, Ashley Rioux and Macey Knesek. Back row: Essence Allen, Hope Williams, Lannah Korenek, Fran Powers, Coach Cherise Coleman, Natalia Terrell, Rachel Pustejovsky, Lauren Rod and Madeline Rod.
Good luck to all area teams 2 EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
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Here we
go AGAIN I believe it was 1980s production. hair band Whitesnake who It’s exciting to look back crooned “Here I go again, on and see the growth that’s ocmy own. Goin’ down the only curred since then within our road I’ve ever known.” own team. Those Travlyrics elling ay come down the to mind unknown trasner while road of hammermakInk By The Barrel ing out ing our the pages preview of the into a Leader-News Football Preview. magazine resulted in it being Football isn’t the only road named Special Section of the we know, but it’s probably one Year by the Texas Gulf Press of our favorites. Association. As you may have read Louise and El Campo are in these space last year, our similarly looking to win some football preview underwent a of their own honors on the major makeover in 2015. gridiron this fall. Last year’s Football PreThe wonderful part of this view section marked the first time of year is everyone is time in our newspaper’s hisundefeated and expectations tory that we published a glossy for district titles and playoff keepsake magazine for our berths abound. pre-season football publicaWe’re pleased to bring you tion. this section. Many thanks to Just six years ago, actuthe coaches for their coopally, this publication was an eration and to our advertisers eight-page tab-sized newsprint who made it all happen.
S
J
T.
The 2016 El Campo Ricebird & Louise Hornet
Football Preview 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 2016 EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
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4 EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
Ricebird Overview
New year,
same GOAL
Ricebirds enter 2016 hoping to build on summer success Year one of the Wayne Condra era is in the books and it was a successful campaign. The Ricebirds used their punishing style of play to rack up rushing yards and come within seconds of a berth in the Regional Quarterfinal playoffs. In short, it was business as usual. This season, the coaching staff remains largely intact but many of the starters will be different after the graduation of a large senior class. The incoming seniors, and the new crop of varsity players, put forth diligent effort in the offseason to maintain EC’s standards. “The kids have worked hard to get to this point and it’s going to help us down the road,” Condra said. There were drills in the spring. There were 7-on-7 tournaments in the early summer. And there were strength and conditioning sessions in the late summer. Players who participated in all three phases enter the 2016 season in arguably the best shape of their careers. The workouts also highlighted the depth and versatility of this year’s squad. On offense, the one-two punch of Kevin Dove and Alontae Harris that helped the Birds rush for more than 4,000 yards last year is gone. Senior Brock Brandl will take over the quarterback position and EC has a stable of no less than eight runners who could combine to fill the void in the backfield. Some are bruisers who will focus on pounding the ball up the middle and others
SENIOR LEADER Reid Zboril looks for someone to hit during a Ricebird pre-season practice. The senior offensive lineman will be contributing to the El Campo football team for a remarkable fourth straight season. are speedsters who are threats to break long runs on any play. “I think (versatility) is going to play a big part because we have several kids there who I feel can step in and do a great job,” Condra said. Deaderick Hollaway, Nery Enriquez, Jerric Chapman, Antoine Greer, Jared Haller Julian Pena, Tate Fuechec, and De’Andre Gibson could all see time in the backfield. Each brings a different skill set to the position and coaches hope that the variety can keep defenses off balance. “I think that’s going to be a benefit for us, because you can move them around and use each guy in different positions,” Assistant Coach Elliott Babcock said. “It doesn’t key off to the defense exactly what you’re trying to do.” The proven strength of the Ricebirds in 2016 will be its offensive and defensive lines. The trenches are stocked with big, physical and experienced players. Reid Zboril will be a four-year starter. Micah McComb is a mammoth tackle. Brandon Williams, Tyrese Washington, Jurvon Bryant, Chris Melchor, Harrison Linzza and Keaton Wisnieski will fill the ranks at center and guard.
“All those guys will play integral parts in our inside running game,” Condra said. Many of the same names will rotate through the defensive line as well, along with Reed Spenrath, Tariq Barron, Spencer David and Kyler Valenta who add size and depth to their positions. The linebacker corp and the secondary will be a blend of veterans and newcomers. Most have varsity experience, but will find themselves in the starting lineup for the first time. Zarian Baylor returns to his outside linebacker position after a First Team All-District campaign in 2015. Chapman, Greer and Wesley Arrambide, as well as several others, will continue to pull double duty on both sides of the ball. “Right now, we have a plethora of guys who we feel confident can go in there and play,” Defensive Coordinator Alan Roberts said. Coaches and fans will watch over the coming weeks to see how the chemistry of each unit develops. There is talent and depth at every position. All that is left is to “put it all together,” as Coach Condra said. – Chris Wimmer
EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
5
Ricebird Offense
Next
man UP Hollaway, Enriquez lead ground attack If there is one thing El Campo fans can bank on, it is an offense that will feature a heavy emphasis on the rushing attack. That won’t change in 2016. But this season’s Ricebirds may have more depth at quarterback, running back and wide receiver than at any time in the recent past. “Our preference is to control the line of scrimmage and run the football,” Head Coach Wayne Condra said. “But we’re going to take what the defense gives us. We’re not going to sit there and pound (the ball) if that’s not working.” The Birds should have ample numbers to employ whichever scheme will get the job done. If they want to run for 400 yards per game, they have a group of rushers who can smash the ball between the tackles and/or bounce it outside. If they want to open up the offense and pass the ball out of a five-wide formation, they have plenty of receiving options. And they should have a solid offensive line to protect the whole system. “We have some depth and hopefully
PLENTY OF POWER Micah McComb, (left) looks to build on a breakout junior season from 2015 and should be one of the top linemen in the district this fall. that’s going to play a big part early,” Condra said. Brock Brandl will be the starting quarterback and will fill a critical senior leadership role, one that was previously held by his brother Bryce during EC’s run to the State finals in 2012. Brandl guided the Ricebirds’ 7-on-7 team throughout the summer and helped lead them to the State tournament in College Station for the first time in school history. All three EC quarterbacks were on the 7-on-7 roster. Brandl was the starter; Kelly Osina was the backup and played on the defense; and Tate Fuechec, the Birds’ third QB this fall, was a reliable slot
Make This A Season to Remember!
receiver. Quarterbacks Coach Craig George liked what he saw from the group. “I think 7-on-7 helped us out a bunch,” he said. “Now we have to go out and see if we can do it in a game.” He described the QBs as “solid” overall and raved about their intellect. “(They are) three really smart kids,” he said. “Tell them one time and they’ve got it. They’re eager to learn. They’re always asking questions, so that makes my job pretty easy.” Brandl has shown the coaches he’s ready to lead and George praised his toughness above all other qualities. “He’s a lot tougher than people give
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him credit for,” he said. “He’ll try to lower his shoulder and run people over if he gets a chance. I think that may surprise some people as we get going.” Joining him in the backfield will be a deep group of running backs. For the past two seasons, the Ricebirds lived off of the rushing abilities of Kevin Dove and Alontae Harris. Dove ran for 2,112 yards last season and Harris was not far behind with 1,504 yards. Both graduated in the spring and now several players whom fans have seen in backup capacities will find their time to shine. “The running back corps as a whole, they’re hard working,” Assistant Coach Elliott Babcock said. “One thing we’ve seen already is that they’re going to get after it. They’re going to take care of their blocks. They all have good knowledge because most of them have been with us, so they know the offense already. It’s just a matter of getting adjusted to game speed.” Senior Deaderick Holloway will likely get the first crack at the position. He was impressive as a sophomore when injuries thrust him into the starting role. “Deaderick, he runs the football hard,” Babcock said. “When he was a sophomore, he came in for us out of nowhere and I remember one of the linemen saying, ‘I don’t know this guy’s name but I like him.’ He ran a couple guys over, so he earned the respect not only of his teammates in his own class, but some of the older guys.” At wide receiver, the Birds will mix size and speed. Holloway, Jalen Robinson and Wesley Arrambide provide the size, along with tight ends Reed Spenrath, Tariq Barron, Spencer David and Kyler Valenta. Antoine Greer, B.J. Baylor, Jerric Chapman, Demond Carter, Tate Fuechec and Javy Mireles, among others, will bring the speed and quickness. Most of the corps participated in the 7-on-7 competitions and gained valuable reps over the summer. While those players honed their timing and precision, the linemen built strength in the weight room. Reid Zboril and Micah McComb return to anchor the line. “Zboril is able to guide and direct a lot of the people up front to make sure that we’re making the right calls,” Condra said. “Micah … has had a great offseason. He’s gotten a lot stronger, a lot bigger. We’re looking for big things from him.” Brandon Williams will take over the starting center spot from last year’s starter, Rhett Spenrath, who will play at Baker University in Kansas this season. And the Birds have a host of returning lettermen who can step into the guard positions (see Overview).
good lucK to all area teams!
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2016 EL CAMPO RICEBIRDS
5
WESLEY ARRAMBIDE
81
TARIQ BARRON
25
BJ BAYLOR
6
ZARIAN BAYLOR
14
BROCK BRANDL
61
JURVON BRYANT
2
DEMOND CARTER
4
JERRIE CHAPMAN
80
SPENCER DAVID
30
NERY ENRIQUEZ
82
ANTONIO FEREGRINO
28
GRANT FUECHEC
EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
9
7
TATE FUECHEC
55
NICK GALLEGOS
22
JOSH GARZA
24
DE’ANDRE GIBSON
3
ANTOINE GREER
32
JARED HAILER
40
NICK HARRIS
10
DEADERICK HOLLAWAY
42
RYON KORENEK
34
JACOB LEAL
77
TY LILIE
75
HARRISON LINZZA
50
DAWSON MACH
9
KYLE MAMEROW
74
44
RICHARD LORMAND
10 EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
MICAH MCCOMB
62
CHRIS MELCHOR
65
VICTOR MEZA
17
20
JULIAN PENA
70
JOHN PUENTES
8
CLAY RAWLINGS
21
JALEN ROBINSON
63
JOHN SALDANA
88
REED SPENRATH
76
DAVIS STOCKTON
19
REYDON SVATEK
46
ILLARIO UNREIN
12
TAYLOR VACLAVICK
33
KYLER VALENTA
54
TYRESE WASHINGTON
XAVIER MIRELES
11
KELLY OSINA
EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
11
66
BRANDON WILLIAMS
52
73
KEATON WISNIESKI
REID ZBORIL
Good Luck Ricebirds!
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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!
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2016 RICEBIRD COACHING STAFF El Campo coaches include front row, from left: Mark Dominguez, Matthew Schoener, James Harp, Craig George, Jonathan Young and Matthew Sohrt. Middle row: Blake George, Bob Killam, Kevin Gordon, Head Coach Wayne Condra, Jesse Galvan, Trent Popp and Alan Roberts. Back row: Elliott Babcock, Mark Woods, Tim Watson, Russell Krenek, Herman Mauch, Doc Easter and Kerry Brandl.
RICEBIRD FOOTBALL: IT’S IN OUR BLOOD.
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EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
15
Ricebird Defense
Bringing the
THUNDER
The Ricebird defense lost six starters to graduation, but has a deep bench of players with varsity experience ready to fill the holes. As an added benefit, at least one starter returns in each level of the unit. As with the offense, depth will be a major key to success, particularly on the line. “We roll in a lot of defensive linemen because a lot of them play on the offensive line also,� Defensive Coordinator Alan Roberts said. Roberts spoke glowingly of the rotation of athletes at defensive tackle and defensive end. Reid Zboril will be a staple at tackle, as in years past. Chris
GROUP EFFORT Ricebird defenders including Chris Melchor (62) swarm the opposing quarterback during action last season. Five El Campo players return this year to a group expected to once again make offenses struggle to gain yards.
Melchor, who was a First Team All-District selection last year, also returns. Spencer David, Reed Spenrath, Tariq Barron and Josh Garza, who moved up from JV this year, are battling for time at defensive end and Roberts said they will all contribute. Behind the collection of linemen will be seniors Zarian Baylor and Kyler Valenta at the linebacker spots in the 4-2-5 base defense favored by El Campo. Baylor is a returning starter who earned a First Team All-District nod last year. Melchor may even see some time at LB this season, Roberts said. In the secondary, one thing is certain: The numbers are plenty. Several wide re-
16 EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
ceivers and running backs will also work as defensive backs, including Deaderick Hollaway, Wesley Arrambide, Jerric Chapman, Demond Carter, Antoine Greer, B.J. Baylor, Tate Fuechec, Jalen Robinson and Javy Mireles. Kyle Mamerow, Clay Rawlings, Reyden Svatek, Nick Harris and a host of others will give the Birds a stockpile of athletes with which to mix and match combinations and coverage. Regardless of the lineup at any given time, Condra and Roberts both liked the swarming nature of the unit in practice and want it to continue in games. (Continued Page 21)
Good luck this season!
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2016 EL CAMPO RICEBIRD VARSITY El Campo 2016 Ricebirds’ varsity football team members are (Row 1, l-r): John Saldana, Jared Hailer, Jacob Leal, Ryon Korenek, Nick Gallegos, John Puentes, Antoine Greer, Xavier Mireles, Grant Fuechec and filmer Jace Ward; (Row 2) Deaderick Hollaway, Wesley Arrambide, Tariq Barron, Taylor Vaclavick, Reed Spenrath, Micah McComb,
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Davis Stockton, Jalen Robinson, Josh Garza, Harrison Linzza, Dawson Mach and Kelly Osina; (Row 3) Zarian Baylor, Victor Meza, Reid Zboril, Keaton Wisnieski, Tate Fuechec, Spencer David, Kyler Valenta, Ty Lilie, Chris Melchor, Brock Brandl and Nick Harris; (Row 4) Richard Lormand, Antonio Feregrino, lllario Unrein, Kyle Mamerow, Clay Rawlings, BJ Baylor, Jerrie Chapman, Tyrese Washington, Jurvon Bryant, Brandon Williams, Nery Enriquez and Reydon Svatek. Not pictured: Demond Carter, Julian Pena and De’Andre Gibson.
Good luck to all of our area football teams!
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The Strike Zone
Ricebird Defense (Continued from Page 16) “That’s one of the things we preach, getting 11 hats to the ball,” Condra said. “That’s the thing about defense. It’s assignment football, but you have to play quick and you have to get in there with reckless abandon sometimes.” This season, Condra and Roberts are emphasizing two areas of improvement: stopping the rushing attack and eliminating big plays. The size ROBERTS and experience of the interior linemen, and the depth at the positions, will be crucial to success versus opposing runners. It will “be big for us,” Condra said. In last season’s heartbreaking loss to Silsbee in the Area playoffs, the Tigers completed long passes at critical moments to allow them to stay in the game and ultimately win as time expired. Roberts hopes the athleticism of this year’s unit will help cut down on the number of big plays allowed. The players have already shown the hustle and energy on the practice field that are hallmarks of a quality group. “There are very few teams that can take the ball and go 80 yards and score on a consistent basis,” Roberts said. “Hopefully we can cause some turnovers and gel into the traditionally good defense we’ve had in El Campo.” The defense is loaded with returning lettermen. If the chemistry develops and the players stay healthy, the Ricebirds have the size and depth to put a stingy unit on the field once again in 2016. – Chris Wimmer
SENIORS READY FOR NEXT CHALLENGE Clay Rawlings (above) and Zarian Baylor (left photo) are among the top returnees to the Ricebird defense taking the field this fall.
EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
21
Hornet Overview
Making a BUZZ Hornets enter Year One of Clawson Era “Be better today than you were yesterday” is the mantra of Coach Heath Clawson. He makes sure his players hear it every day. This season, with an incredibly young team, he wants improvement first and hopefully the wins will follow. Clawson will stride the sidelines as a head coach for the first time in 2016. The 37-year-old brings 14 years of varsity football experience to the Hornets with stops that include Copperas Cove near Austin and Highland Park and Carrollton outside Dallas. In his previous two seasons before joining LHS, he was co-offensive coordinator at Newman Smith High School in Carrollton. The program has traditionally struggled on the gridiron, but he helped guide the Spartans to backto-back playoff appearances. In 2010 as co-offensive coordinator at Boerne High School, his team averaged more than 43 points and 450 yards of offense per game. He knows of the explosive, hightempo offense the Hornets ran under former head coach David Lucio and wants the tradition to continue, but he is also aware that he must tailor his system to fit the strengths of his players. “I definitely like to base out of a spread gun offense,” Clawson said. “I enjoy spreading things out, but I’m also not afraid to get in there and use a little power football, too.” Coach Lucio and the senior class of 2016 brought more success to Louise than at any time in the past decade.
GO-TO GUY Louise senior receiver Carlos Garcia hauls in a long pass during preseason practice. The returning All-District performer will be one of the most explosive players in the area this fall. They provided high-scoring, high-flying excitement and consecutive playoff runs in 2014 and 2015. But the coach and most of the players are gone. Clawson filled out his staff with loads of experience. Defensive Coordinator Jeff Walker has been a coach for more than 30 years, 25 of them in Texas. Glenn Maiolini works with the offensive and defensive lines. He adds decades of experience from the Miami, Florida area. Jeff Akin and Clifford Hooks round out the group. Aiken assists with the lines as well as coaching the outside linebackers and Hooks will mold and develop young corps of receivers and defensive backs. On the field, just five seniors adorn this year’s roster. The majority of the team hails from the freshman and sophomore ranks.
22 EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
Sophomore Colin Gonzales will be the starting quarterback and his young shoulders will bear the burden of replacing Louise’s most dynamic playmaker over the past two seasons, Eric Lucio. Luckily for Gonzales, the Hornets’ most dangerous receiving threat of 2015 is back to help carry the load. Carlos Garcia enters his senior year as the team’s most productive offensive weapon. The relationship between Gonzales and Garcia will be critical to the team’s success. “Me and Carlos have good chemistry,” Gonzales said. “We’re probably going to do really well this season, hopefully.” The Hornets must also replace the other half of its exciting backfield: run(Continued Page 27)
2016 LOUISE HORNETS The 2016 Louise Hornets’ varsity includes bottom row, from left: Manager Horatio Flores, Robert Hatten and Derek Luna. Second row: Tyler Sulak, Morgan Lee Williams, Roger Florez, Colin Gonzales, Carlos Garcia, Adolfo Torres and Mateo Munoz. Third row: Kameron Coplen, Eddie Escamia, Danny Williams, Justin Koenig, Kaleb Sanchez, Cameron Cortez and Kristian Munoz. Fourth row: Aaron Cardenas, Isaiah Montes, Phillip Pinkston, Cayde Bubela, Domannick Edison, Miguel Montes, and Harrison Cook. Fifth row: Jose Avalos, Duran Vasquez, Gaige Kocian, Josh Garcia, Robert Martinez and Marcos Montes.
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2016 LOUISE HORNETS
JOSE AVALOS
CAYDE BUBELA
KAMERON COPLEN
CAMERON CORTEZ
ROGER FLOREZ
CARLOS GARCIA
24 EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
AARON CARDENAS
HARRISON COOK
DOMANNICK EDISON
EDDIE ESCAMIA
JOSH GARCIA
COLIN GONZALES
ROBERT HATTEN
GAIGE KOCIAN
JUSTIN KOENIG
ROBERT MARTINEZ
ISAIAH MONTES
MARCOS MONTES
KRISTIAN MUNOZ
MATEO MUNOZ
CREATE A BUZZ
THIS YEAR HORNETS!
PHILLIP PINKSTON
DEREK LUNA
MIGUEL MONTES
KALEB SANCHEZ
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
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MIKAL SMITH
TYLER SULAK
DURAN VASQUEZ
ADOLFO TORRES
DANNY WILLIAMS
MORGAN WILLIAMS NOT PICTURED: MICHAEL VALCIK
Good Luck Hornets! Let’s Go ALL THE WAY!!! J. MICHAEL APPLING & ASSOCIATES Michael & Dianne Appling 601 E. Jackson • 979-543-5388
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
26 EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
Hornet Overview
LEADING THE WAY Hornet running back Domannik Edison goes through a running play during a Louise preseason practice. The Hornets will be looking to replace some explosive players in the backfield in 2016.
(Continued from Page 22) ning back Blaine Machicek. LHS will rely on a stable of runners to fill the holes left by Lucio and Machicek, including Philip Pinktson and transfers Domannik Edison and Eddie “Doc” Escamia. The best news for the offense is that it will return size and experience on the line. Starters Jose Avalos and Miguel Montes are back. Avalos was a First Team All-District performer at guard last year and Montes was a Second Team selection. Mateo Munoz, cousins Marcos and Isaiah Montes, and a host of others will give the Hornets depth up front. “They’re smart, they’re big and they’re strong,” Aiken said. “The offensive line should be the strength of the team. I’ve coached in other places and won quite a bit and we didn’t have this kind of size.”
Let’s Go Ricebirds!
DANNA INSURANCE
(979) 543-9719
The receivers and defensive backs are the youngest units on the squad. Their ranks are filled almost entirely with freshmen and sophomores; Garcia is the lone senior. But Coach Hooks likes the enthusiasm and willingness to learn he sees in practice. Like all coaches, he wants to win, but at the moment his chief goal is improvement. “I’m looking for progression,” Hooks said. “I’m looking for practices to transition over to games. As long as I’m receiving that extra edge in practice … it should easily transition over into games.” The preseason magazines predict the Hornets will finish third in the district and return to the playoffs. The speed at which youth can convert to experience will likely guide the fate of the Hornets in 2016. – Chris Wimmer
GOOD LUCK this football season!
820 W. Loop St., El Campo, TX 77437 • (979) 543-8152
1707 W. Loop, El Campo, TX 77437 EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
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2016 HORNET COACHING STAFF The 2016 Louise Hornets’ coaching staff includes from left: Head Coach Heath Clawson, Clifford Hooks, Jeff Walker, Jeff Akin and Glenn Maiolini.
DUCKETT, BOULIGNY & COLLINS, L.L.P Attorneys At Law
Proud supporters of the El Campo Ricebirds and proudly serving the Texas Gulf Coast for over 65 years.
PARTNERS
Ronald B. Collins John M. Merck Heath S. Radley Richard L. Kerzee
GOOD LUCK AREA TEAMS THIS SEASON!
OF COUNSEL
James A. Bouligny
ADMINISTRATOR Monica Tegeler Bard
207 W. Jackson • El Campo
979-543-6845
www.dbc-law.com
28 EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
3413 W. Loop • 979-543-7286
Wishing all of our area high school football teams a great season!
The Hometown Experts With A World of Experience®
www.KacyBain.com RE/MAX Professionals
1707 W. Loop, El Campo • 979-543-7006 507 East 4th, Hallettsville • 361-741-4058
www.SellingTexasProperties.com
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
29
Ricebird Profile
In the
GENES Brandl ready to make his own mark at QB
The Houston Texans and the El Campo Ricebirds will have some similarities in personnel this fall. Don’t get carried away imagining DeAndre Hopkins lining up at receiver or J.J. Watt bouncing around Ricebird Stadium, mind you. The comparisons begin at quarterback, where both teams will be breaking in new signal callers. Not only that, each squad will start a young guy named Brock under center. Brock Osweiller for the Texans, and Brock Brandl for the Birds, that is. After a successful summer in which he helped guide El Campo to the 7-on-7 State tournament, El Campo’s Brandl is ready for the limelight this fall. “I’m ready to go out and be a leader and be a playmaker,” Brandl said. “As seniors, we’re ready to kick some butt on the field and take ownership of the team. Lead by example.” While some on the EC roster may have become varsity players by happenstance, Brandl’s Ricebird dreams seem to have been playing out in his head since childhood. “He’s wanted to be a Ricebird player ever
GOOD LUCK
ALL AREA TEAMS!
BROCK BRANDL Ricebird Senior QB
GO BIRDS & GIG’EM AGGIES!
The 1807 N. Mechanic 979-543-3327
30 EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
Travel Store
223 East Jackson Street • 979-543-7802
“Brock has had a great offseason and we are looking for great things from him.” - Wayne Condra
since first grade it seems like,” his mother, Suzanne Brandl said. “Over the years he’s been ball boy, water boy, you name it. Whatever he could do to be part of the Friday night games. It’s his time now and he’s very excited.” Brock’s favorite time as water boy came during the historic 2012 season that saw the Birds reach the State championship game. The guy under center that year? None other that Bryce Brandl, Brock’s older brother. When it came time for Brock to reach the varsity level last year, he requested Bryce’s number 14. However, when he told Coach Wayne Condra about his number preference, the coach told him it was already reserved. “It was kind of cool because I think Brock was disappointed for a second, but Coach Condra smiled and said ‘it’s reserved. For you,’” Suzanne recalled.
Bryce, who is currently starring on the St. Mary’s University baseball team, said he’s looking forward to following the Ricebirds and the newest Brandl quarterback this fall. “It will be kinda different because it’s always been him coming to my games, but now it’s my turn to cheer from the stands,” Bryce said. “I told him that it’s a grind being the quarterback. There will be ups and downs but to stay level-headed and keep your cool. I know he’s got what it takes to be a really good player. I’m looking forward to it.” Brock said he “learned a lot” from all those games watching his brother. It’s his turn now. “I’m not even worried about who’s favored to win the district or any of that,” Brock said. “I know if we play to our abilities, we’ll have a good team.” – Jay T. Strasner
Good Luck to the El Campo Ricebirds & Louise Hornets!
HOPE YOU HAVE A SPECTACULAR SEASON!
3703 FM 2765, El Campo • 979-543-2348
Robert R. Nursey, RFC
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.
EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
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Locker room Insider
BRANDON WILLIAMS Position: Center Most inspirational people in your life: My family Hobbies: Chillin with friends Dream date: On the beach in Hawaii Favorite meal: Spaghetti I’m scared of: Snakes Pregame superstition: Wear my lucky underwear and listen to gameday music Favorite movie: Remember The Titans
Position: Offensive Guard Most inspirational people in your life: Kent Murphy Dream date: Kaly Favorite meal: El Bambaro I’m scared of: Being scared is just an option Pregame ritual: Talk to Reid Pregame Superstition: If I don’t talk to Reid, we may not win Hidden talent: I am a pro at driving a tractor
TY LILIE
DAWSON MACH Position: Center Most inspirational people in your life: Ricky Bobby “shake n bake” Hobbies: Hunting and fishing Dream date: Carrie Underwood Favorite meal: Crawfish I’m scared of: Snakes Pregame ritual: Listen to music Hidden talent: Playing ping-pong Favorite movie: Talladega Nights
FOR FOOTBALL SCORES AND HIGHLIGHTS ON GAME NIGHT, FOLLOW THE LEADER-NEWS ON FACEBOOK & TWITTER!
32 EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
WE HAVE SCHOOL LOGOS FOR... EL CAMPO, LOUISE, GANADO, WHARTON, TIDEHAVEN & BAY CITY
116 E. 1st Street | 979-543-1691 | www.treehousefurniturestore.com
Laura’s Cafe PROUD TO SUPPORT OUR HOME TEAMS! 1616 S Mechanic • (979) 578-9030
GOOD LUCK THIS season A Boys! A
RICE FARMERS COOP INC. 106 Market Street, El Campo
(979) 543-6753
EXECUTIVESTITCHES.COM • 979-541-5757
GO RICEBIRDS!
NOVAK’S MEAT MARKET 205 N. Washington • 543-8664
A Great Smile At a Great Price
IMPLANTS • BRACES • COSMETICS
Providing patients with a smile they can be proud of - at a price they can afford.
721 Hwy 60 N, Bay City
(979) 244-4677
“Your Friend in the Tire Business”
979-543-ABBY • ABBYDENTAL.ORG 3703 FM 2765, STE. H (Across from El Campo Civic Center) EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
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RICEBIRD SCHEDULE HORNET SCHEDULE Friday, Aug. 26 @ 7:30 p.m. GANADO (Away)
Friday, Aug. 26 @ 7:30 p.m. GREGORY PORTLAND (Home) Thursday, Sept. 2 @ 6:00 p.m. ANGLETON (Home) Friday, Sept. 9 @ 7:30 p.m. CALHOUN (Away)
Friday, Sept. 2 @ 7:30 p.m. INDUSTRIAL (Home) Friday, Sept. 9 @ 7:30 p.m. BURTON (Home)
Friday, Sept. 16 @ 7:30 p.m. WHARTON (Away)
Friday, Sept. 16 @ 7:30 p.m. TIDEHAVEN (Home)
HOMECOMING
Friday, Sept. 23 - OPEN
Friday, Sept. 23 @ 7:30 p.m. WEST COLUMBIA (Home)
Friday, Sept. 30 @ 7:30 p.m. WOODSBORO (Away)
Friday, Sept. 30 @ 7:30 p.m. NEEDVILLE* (Away)
Friday, Oct. 7 @ 7:30 p.m. FLATONIA* (Away)
Friday, Oct. 7 @ 7:30 p.m. BRAZOSPORT* (Home)
HOMECOMING
Friday, Oct. 14 @ 7:30 p.m. SEALY* (Away)
Friday, Oct. 14 @ 7:30 p.m. PETTUS* (Home) Friday, Oct. 21 @ 7:30 p.m. FALLS CITY* (Away)
Friday, Oct. 21 - OPEN
PARENTS NIGHT
Friday, Oct. 28 @ 7:30 p.m. STAFFORD* (Home)
PARENTS NIGHT
Friday, Oct. 28 @ 7:30 p.m. CHARLOTTE* (Home)
Friday, Nov. 4 @ 7:30 p.m. BAY CITY* (Away)
Friday, Nov. 4 @ 7:30 p.m. RUNGE* (Away)
GO dawson mach! RICE BELT WAREHOUSE, INC. www.ricebelt.com
Floral Gardens 802 W. Jackson • 543-2705 Allen & Peggy Halamicek, owners
34 EL CAMPO LEADER-NEWS | FOOTBALL PREVIEW
GO HORNETS! GO BIRDS!
Country Bride
602-A North, Louise (979) 648-2333
Best of Luck to all area football teams!
Ross Wyatt Anderson, D.D.S., F.A.G.D., F.I.C.O.I.
Fellow - Academy of General Dentistry • Fellow - International Congress of Oral Implantologists Board Certified in Intravenous Sedation
1106 N Mechanic • SmileElCampo.com • 979-543-4291
A
IM FOR A PERFECT SEASON!
28268 US 59 HWY, EL CAMPO • 979-543-8442
| www.ElCampoCycle.com 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