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Fayette County Football 2017 Leps Hope Two QBs Are Better Than One

Six-Man Returns For Year Three

Sine & Son Hope to Energize Schulenburg

Flatonia Looks to Build on Last Year’s Run to State Quarterfinals

We at VINCENT’S ROOFING wish the La Grange Leopards and all area High Schools GOOD LUCK this 2017 Football Season!

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Fayette County Football 2017: Quick Hits

‘‘

Arnulfo Carrillo

We have a saying: Braden will make you miss, but Arnulfo will make you pay.”

– Fayette County Six-Man football head coach C.H. Harvey talking about the running styles of his two star backs, Braden Rohde (a track star who is tough to catch and tackle) and Arnulfo Carrillo (a bruiser, who is as happy to run over a tackler as around them).

On the Cover:

S

chulenburg has instituted a new wrinkle for this season. Whichever player last recovers a turnover (whether in a game or practice) will get the above award (shown here being held by head coach Brandon Brown). It’s fashioned after a WWE wrestling championship belt and just underscores the importance of turnovers to the Shorthorns.

• La Grange’s A.J. Grant and Parker Gage, who will split time at quarterback for the Leps this season.

• Flatonia seniors, lineman Shane Templeton and Lucas Herrera, both returnees who were a key part of last year’s run to the state quarterfinals.

• Schulenburg father son duo David and Walker Sine, newcomers to the Shorthorns.

• The Fayette County six-man team huddling up during practice.

Photos by Jeff Wick

Fayette County Football 2017 Leps Hope Two QBs Are Better Than One

Six-Man Returns For Year Three

Sine & Son Hope to Energize Schulenburg

Flatonia Looks to Build on Last Year’s Run to State Quarterfinals

‘‘

Noah Blackwell

The coaches always say play like a senior but you never know what that really feels like until you have one year left.”

– La Grange senior safety Noah Blackwell, one of 14 seniors on this year’s Leps team.

‘‘ ‘‘

In Sonora we went four rounds (in the playoffs) with a very small but fast team. This team is bigger, not as fast, but we have the heart to do it, and hopefully this is our year.”

– New Schulenburg QB/WR/Safety Walker Sine, comparing the Sonora team he played on last year to this year’s Shorthorns.

We’re really excited to be back in the area where I grew up. I grew up a Wildcat (Weimar), became the head coach of the Bulldogs (Flatonia) so I’ve been a rival of Schulenburg on both sides, but now we have a chance to join Shorthorn nation, The whole family is really, really pleased and very grateful.”

– New Schulenburg assistant coach David Sine, a native of Weimar and former head coach at Flatonia.

Good Luck Leopards!

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TUESDAY, AUGUST 29, 2017 3

Fayette County Football 2017: The Predictions La Grange’s 10-4A

Schulenburg’s 14-3A

Listed in order of predicted finish.

Giddings Buffaloes

2016 record: 11-3 Starters back (Off/Def): 4/6 H.S. Enrollment: 589 Of Note: Giddings always has speedy playmakers, this year it looks like the Buffaloes have the linemen to match.

La Grange Leopards

2016 record: 4-6 Starters back (Off/Def): 5/5 H.S. Enrollment: 627.5 Of Note: The Leps were burned by a host of injuries to key players last year. Success in 2017 may hinge on simply staying healthy.

Caldwell Hornets

2016 record: 5-6 Starters back (Off/Def): 6/4 H.S. Enrollment: 538 Of Note: Hornets return a 1,000-yard rusher and a 1,000-yard passer. They should be better.

Columbus Cardinals

2016 record: 3-7 Starters back (Off/Def): 6/5 H.S. Enrollment: 481 Of Note: In second year at CHS for Coach Bonewald, dual-threat QB Pflughaupt should be a star.

Gonzales Apaches

2016 record: 5-6 Starters back (Off/Def): 6/4 H.S. Enrollment: 721 Of Note: Big linemen plus a 1,500-yard passer return for the Apaches.

Smithville Tigers

2016 record: 0-10 Starters back (Off/Def): 10/9 H.S. Enrollment: 563 Of Note: Lots of returning starters should result in a few wins for the Tigers.

Listed in order of predicted finish.

Boling Bulldogs

2016 record: 13-3 Starters back (Off/Def): 6/6 Of Note: Bulldogs made a run to state title game last year and have a star QB returning.

East Bernard Brahmas

2016 record: 11-2 Starters back (Off/Def): 6/6 Of Note: Pair of 1,000-yard rushers return.

Should battle Boling for district title.

Schulenburg Shorthorns

2015 record: 5-5 Starters back (Off/Def): 6/6 Of Note: Horns should be better, but this is a tough, tough district.

Tidehaven Tigers

2016 record: 8-3 Starters back (Off/Def): 8/8 Of Note: A 2,000-yard rusher, Jeff Williams, leads big group of returning starters.

Wallis Brazos Cougars

2016 record: 5-6 Starters back (Off/Def): 9/8 H.S. Enrollment: 233 Of Note: Most returning lettermen in 14-3A.

Danbury Panthers

2016 record: 3-7 Starters back (Off/Def): 3/8 Of Note: Panthers not making the playoffs in this brutal district.

Bloomington Bobcats

2016 record: 1-9 Starters back (Off/Def): 8/9 Of Note: Bloomington better get its wins before district

Flatonia’s 15-2A Listed in order of predicted finish.

Flatonia Bulldogs

2016 record: 9-5 Starters back (Off/Def): 4/5 H.S. Enrollment: 157 Of Note: Last year was best Flatonia football team in decades. Success should continue.

Falls City Beavers

2016 record: 8-5 Starters back (Off/Def): 7/8 H.S. Enrollment: 124 Of Note: QB Keyshawn Johnson returns, so the Beavers should be very, very dangerous.

Louise Hornets

2016 record: 3-8 Starters back (Off/Def): 8/9 H.S. Enrollment: 140 Of Note: Louise may win twice as many games as last year.

Pettus War Eagles

2016 record: 6-5 Starters back (Off/Def): 7/7 H.S. Enrollment: 148 Of Note: From 1-9 in 2015 to six wins last year.

More improvement on the way this season.

Charlotte Trojans

2016 record: 4-6 Starters back (Off/Def): 6/6 H.S. Enrollment: 149 Of Note: Trojans simply overmatched in this district.

Runge Yellow Jackets

2016 record: 1-9 Starters back (Off/Def): 7/7 H.S. Enrollment: 89 Of Note: Only two wins in last two years for Yellowjackets.

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Fayette County Football 2017: Statistically Speaking 2016 State Champs 6A DI 6A DII 5A DI 5A DII 4A DI 4A DII 3A DI 3A DII 2A DI 2A DII 1A DI 1A DII

Lake Travis 41, The Woodlands 13 DeSoto 38, Schertz Cibolo Steele 29 Highland Park 16, Temple 7 Aledo 24, CC Calallen 16 Carthage 31, Abilene Wylie 17 West Orange-Stark 24, Sweetwater 6 Mineola 35, Yoakum 14 Gunter 43, Boling 7 Refugio 23, Crawford 20 Bremond 49, Iraan 28 Borden County 60, Jonesboro 12 Richland Springs 96, Balmorhea 50

The Flatonia Bulldogs run onto the field before a playoff game last season.

Photo Jeff Wick

All-Time Playoff Appearances Flatonia (23 total): Schulenburg (28 total): La Grange (23 total):

1954, 56, 58, 59, 64, 79, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 2002 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015, 2016 1929, 39, 47, 58, 66, 69, 71, 72, 74, 75, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2010, 2011, 2013 1938, 46, 65, 74, 75, 79, 86, 87, 88, 96, 97, 99, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2006, 2009, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016

2017 AP Preseason State Football Poll Class 6A Team (1st place votes) Total Pts 1. Allen (8) 211 2. Katy (5) 201 3. DeSoto (3) 170 4. Converse Judson (5) 169 5. Cibolo Steele (1) 160 6. Lake Travis (2) 136 7. Austin Westlake (1) 119 8. Cedar Hill 83 9. The Woodlands 63 10. Galena Park No. Shore 22 Others receiving votes: 11, Spring Westfield 8. 12, Klein Collins 7.

12, Coppell 7. 14, Southlake Carroll 4.

14, Pearland 4. 16, Tyler 3. 17, Beaumont West Brook 2. 17, Mansfield 2.

17, Katy Cinco Ranch 2. 20, Denton Guyer 1. 20, San Benito 1.

Class 5A 1. Manvel (8) 223 2. Aledo (14) 218 3. Dallas Highland Park (1) 162 4. Temple 152 5. Cedar Park (1) 140 6. Denton Ryan 99 (tie)CC Calallen 99 8. Fort Bend Marshall (1) 96 9. College Station 60 10. Lancaster 52 Others receiving votes: 11, Richmond Foster 23. 12, Mansfield Legacy 12. 13, Angleton 8. 14, Mesquite Poteet 7. 15, PN-Groves 5. 15, Colleyville Heritage 5. 17, P. Arthur Memorial 4. 18, Dripping Springs 3. 19, A&M Consolidated 2. 19, Mansfield Lake Ridge 2.

21, Texarkana 1. 21, N. Richland Hills 1. 21, Lub. Coronado 1

Class 4A 1. Carthage (18) 235 2. Gilmer (4) 197 3. West Orange-Stark (2) 178 4. Argyle (1) 162 5. Waco La Vega 148 6. Cuero 104 7. Celina 88 8. Kennedale 77 9. Abilene Wylie 58 10. China Spring 41 Others receiving votes: 11, Midlothian Heritage 36. 12, Giddings 15. 13, Van 12. 14, Kilgore 7.

15, Sweetwater 6. 15, Wimberley 6.

17, Monahans 2. 18, Sinton 1. 18, El Campo 1. 18, Henderson 1.

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Class 3A 1. Cameron Yoe (12) 223 2. Brock (3) 184 3. Gunter (4) 156 4. Hallettsville (2) 136 5. Lexington (2) 113 6. Yoakum (1) 108 7. Newton (1) 102 8. East Bernard 89 9. Wall 69 10. Malakoff 62 Others receiving votes: 11, Canadian 57. 12, Teague 15. 13, Rockdale 14. 14, Mineola 11. 14, Arp 11. 16, Jefferson 7. 17, Sonora 6. 18, New London West Rusk 4. 19, Franklin 2. 19, Big Sandy Harmony 2.

19, Woodville 2. 22, Crockett 1. 22, Pottsboro 1.

Class 2A 1. Refugio (11) 213 2. Tenaha (9) 211 3. Mart (3) 194 4. Bremond (2) 174 5. Crawford 152 6. Mason 105 7. Muenster 70 8. Albany 62 9. Abernathy 49 10. Wellington 38 Others receiving votes: 11, Iraan 31. 12, Burton 20. 13, Shiner 18. 14, De Leon 15. 15, Centerville 9. 16, Groveton 4. 16, San Augustine 4. 18, Munday 2. 18, Evadale 2. 20, Falls City 1. 20, Alto 1.

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TUESDAY, AUGUST 29, 2017 5

LA GRANGE LEPS

Fayette County Football 2017

Leps Ready to Forge New Identity

By JEFF WICK

The Fayette County Record

For four years J.K. Dobbins was the face of the La Grange football team.

The star running back, now poised for stardom at Ohio State, grew into an almost larger than life presence.

When television cameras and college recruiters came to town, he was the first stop – even as he spent much of his senior year on crutches with an ankle injury.

“I can’t put into words what he did for this program and this community,” said La Grange head coach Matt Kates.

Now the Leps head into a new era – it’s Year One of La Grange football AD (After Dobbins).

After a long string of college recruits (Brandon Wilkerson, Chad Childs, Zach Ledwik, Logan Vinklarek, Bralon Hutchison, Dobbins) this year’s Leps may lack the superstar factor of recent teams.

And that’s okay, Kates said.

See Leps, next page

Senior Jakob Schlemmer is the lone returning starter on the Leps offensive line.

Leps Football By The Numbers

43-19

This is the combined 2016 record of LG’s non-district opponents this year: Liberty Hill (8-4), Argyle (11-1), La Vernia (2-9), Navarro (14-1) and Taylor (8-4).

14

This is number of seniors on this year’s varsity, one of the smaller senior contingents in recent years.

53-27

This is the overall coaching record in La Grange for Matt Kates who begins his eighth year as Leps head coach.

Photo by Jeff Wick

Quick Hits Last year’s record: 4-6 overall, 3-2 in district Returning starters: Five on offense, Five on defense Last playoff appearance: 2016, Lost to Salado in the first round of the playoffs.

Reason to be confident: The tough non-district schedule will get them ready for district.

Lingering question: Can the Leps (unlike last year) stay healthy through a brutal early schedule that will really test them?

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Leps Have Made Playoffs For Five Consecutive Years Continued from previous page “(Ohio State coach) Urban Meyer is not walking into this locker room this year. (Texas A&M coach) Kevin Sumlin’s not coming,” Kates said. “The identity of this team is that there is none ... if anytime it was just about ‘team, team, team,’ this is it.

“It has to be team-first. I told the guys the other day, don’t think of yourself as a defensive player, don’t think of yourself as an offense player. Think of yourself as a football player, and we’re going to need all of you.”

If there was any silver lining about the ankle injury that sidelined Dobbins for all but one carry last season, it’s that last year better prepared La Grange for this year without him.

Jericho Haardt stepped up as a sophomore running back last season and ran for 941 yards.

“He’s put on 15 pounds since last year and we expect him to be more explosive,” Kates said.

A slew of other injuries also required many Leps to step into varsity roles earlier than expected. Junior quarterback Parker Gage saw significant time last year as a sophomore.

“He’s such an intelligent kid,” Kates said.

Despite injuries that affected about half the Leps starters last year, La Grange still managed to grab second place in District 10-4A before losing to Salado in overtime in the first round of the playoffs.

Kates said this year’s group will not

be content with simply making the playoffs again.

“We want to get in and win,” he said.

Here’s a look at the team he’ll send out on the field to try to do it: Offensively five starters return from a year ago –wide receivers Kayton Powell and Ryan Cooper, offensive lineman Jakob Schlemmer (the only returnee on the o-line), Haardt at running back and Trenton Marshall at fullback.

Juniors Gage and A.J. Grant will split time at quarterback. Grant is a newcomer to the position, and will likely play less offense than Gage, because Grant will also be starting at cornerback. But Kates said Grant proved his throwing ability this summer in 7-on-7 and the athletic lefty (and former tailback) should be good at

La Grange’s Jericho Haardt returns after running for 941 yards last season.

running the football from the QB position.

At running back, Haardt will be backed-up by Chris Dobbins (J.K.’s cousin), Albert Benford and Demeris Taylor.

At fullback, Marshall will be backed up by Reece Kollaja, Aden Stackhouse and Briley Ward.

Behind the returning starters of Powell and Cooper at wide receiver, Calvin Davis, junior Deviro Yanis, Miguel Ramirez, Berry McNeill, Branden Lee, and Brock Gardiner could make an impact as varsity receivers.

Big junior Tyler Johnson (6-foot-4, 225 pounds) will start at tight end and will provide a big target for the quarterbacks. Johnson will be backed up by David Sanchez and Hayden Mach.

On the offensive line, Schlemmer will start at one of the guard positions, and senior Ty Walker will start at the other.

Starting tackles will be senior Ayreon Zachary and junior Josh Cervantez.

Junior John Cox has won the starting center job.

Back-up linemen include: Tre Scott, Dusty Rhodes, Hadyn McIntyre, Kyler Sacky, Mason Juno, T.J. Vollbaum, and Jose Lopez-Ocon.

Defensively, five starters return, including linebackers Calvin Davis, Trenton Marshall and Weston Hayworth and defensive backs Noah Blackwell and A.J. Grant.

That defense will be lead by new Defensive Coordinator Rusty Cauthern, who Kates talked into coming back to La Grange for a third time. Cauthern was a coach on the 2000 state champ Leopard

FAYETTE CO. FOOTBALL PREVIEW

team, but more recently coached with Tony Valastro in Columbus and then last year at East Bernard.

“It’s hard to find that kind of experience and he’s been successful everywhere he’s been,” Kates said.

“His word is ‘relentless.’ We’ll be relentless in everything we do defensively.”

Story continued on page 12

La Grange Leopards

August 18 – El Campo (scrimmage) 7 p.m.

24 – @ Lockhart (scrimmage) 7 p.m.

September 1 – Liberty Hill (Parent Night) 7:30 p.m.

8 – vs. Argyle (@ UHMB-Belton) 7:30 p.m.

15 – @ La Vernia 7:30 p.m.

22 – Navarro (Homecoming) 7:30 p.m.

29 – @ Taylor 7:30 p.m.

October 6 - Bye 13 – @ Gonzales* 7:30 p.m.

20 – @ Smithville* 7:30 p.m.

27 – Columbus* (Lil Leps Run) 7:30 p.m.

November 3 – @ Giddings* 7:30 p.m.

10 – Caldwell* (Band Night) 7:30 p.m.

Bold indicates home game * indicates district game

TUESDAY, AUGUST 29, 2017 7

La Grange Varsity Football Team Number Name 2 Parker Gage 3 Kayton Powell 4 Albert Benford 5 Ryan Cooper 6 Calvin Davis 7 Lloyd Gilmore 8 Alan Orona 9 Reece Kollaja 10 Noe Robles 11 Weston Haworth 12 Noah Blackwell 13 Berry McNeil 14 Brock Gardiner 15 Miguel Ramirez 16 Aden Stackhouse 17 A.J. Grant

Position QB/DB WR/LB RB/DB WR/DB WR/LB WR/DB K RB/DB RB/DL RB/LB WR/DB WR/DB QB/DB WR/DB RB/LB QB/DB

Class 11 11 12 12 12 11 11 11 12 11 12 11 10 11 11 11

Number Name 18 Briley Ward 20 Demeris Taylor 21 Deviro Yanis 23 Hayden Mach 24 Jericho Haardt 25 David Sanchez 27 Branden Lee 28 Dillon Curlee 33 Chris Dobbins 34 Trenton Marshall 50 Jakob Schlemmer 51 T.J. Vollbaum 52 Keven Rios 54 John Cox 55 Ayreon Zachary 56 Tre Scott

Position RB/LB RB/LB WR/DB TE/LB RB/LB RB/LB WR/LB RB/LB RB/DL RB/LB OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL

Class 11 11 11 11 11 11 12 10 12 12 12 12 12 11 12 10

Number Name 58 Hadyn McIntyre 59 Ty Walker 64 Dusty Rhodes 66 Jose Lopez-Ocon 70 Mason Juno 72 Kyler Sacky 76 Josh Cervantez 88 Tyler Johnson 99 Angel Cuellar

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Class 11 12 12 10 11 11 11 11 11

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Position OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL TE/DL K

La Grange Varsity

#2 – Parker Gage QB/DB Jr.

#3 – Kayton Powell WR/LB Jr.

#4 – Albert Benford RB/DB Sr.

#5 – Ryan Cooper WR/DB Sr.

#6 – Calvin Davis WR/LB Sr.

#7 – Lloyd Gilmore WR/DB Jr.

#8 – Alan Orona K Jr.

#9 – Reece Kollaja RB/DB Jr.

#10 – Noe Robles

#11 – Weston Haworth RB/LB Jr.

#12 – Noah Blackwell WR/DB Sr.

#14 – Brock Gardiner QB/DB So.

#15 – Miguel Ramirez WR/DB Jr.

#16 – Aden Stackhouse RB/LB Jr.

#17 – A.J. Grant QB/DB Jr.

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La Grange Varsity

#18 – Briley Ward RB/LB Jr.

#20 – Demeris Taylor RB/LB Jr.

#21 – Deviro Yanis WR/DB Jr.

#23 – Hayden Mach TE/LB Jr.

#24 – Jericho Haardt RB/LB Jr.

#25 – David Sanchez RB/LB Jr.

#27 – Branden Lee WR/LB Sr.

#28 – Dillon Curlee RB/LB So.

#33 – Chris Dobbins RB/DL Sr.

#34 – Trenton Marshall RB/LB Sr.

#50 – Jakob Schlemmer OL/DL Sr.

#51 – T.J. Vollbaum OL/DL Sr.

#52 – Keven Rios OL/DL Sr.

#54 – John Cox OL/DL jr.

#55 – Ayreon Zachary OL/DL Sr.

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La Grange Varsity

#56 – Tre Scott OL/DL So.

#58 – Hadyn McIntyre OL/DL Jr.

#59 – Ty Walker OL/DL Sr

#64 – Dusty Rhodes OL/DL Sr.

#66 – Jose Lopez-Ocon OL/DL So.

#70 – Mason Juno OL/DL Jr.

#72 – Kyler Sacky OL/DL Jr.

#76 – Josh Cervantez OL/DL Jr.

#88 – Tyler Johnson TE/DL Jr.

#99 – Angel Cuellar K Jr.

Leps Season Preview: Orona a Weapon as Kicker

Continued from Page 7

Here’s how the Leps will line up on defense: Chris Dobbins and Keven Rios are battling for the starting nose guard spot.

Defensive end starters are Vollbaum and Walker, with a host of other players in the mix as well. Starters at inside linebacker will be Marshall and David Sanchez with Haardt, Taylor, Mach and Dillon Curlee as back-ups.

Outside linebacker starters are Calvin Davis and Haworth with Powell, Stackhouse and Ward as back-ups.

Blackwell and Kollaja will start at the safety positions with Gardiner, Miguel Ramirez and Lloyd Gilmore as back-ups.

Yanis and Grant will start as cornerbacks with McNeill and Benford and Cooper as back-ups.

Special teams may be where La Grange

really shines this year, Kates said.

“With Alan Orona, I feel like we have one of the best kickers, not only in the state but in the nation,” Kates said. “The ball just explodes off his foot.”

At a kickers camp at Texas A&M this year, Orona finished in the Top 2 in every category, Kates said.

Recently at practice Orona made a 65yard wind-aided field goal.

Good Luck LEPS! 12 TUESDAY, AUGUST 29, 2017

Orona will also punt. Angel Cuellar will also handle some kick-offs.

The non-district portion of La Grange schedule is so difficult (four of the five teams won eight or more games last year) that Kates said, “We might be a good football team, but the record doesn’t show it.

“It’s all about being the best version of ourselves going into that district opener Oct. 13 at Gonzales.”

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La Grange Junior Varsity Football Team Number Name Position 2 Matthew Johnon QB/DB 3 Dayton Jarvis WR/DB 4 Marcus Darden WR/DB 5 Nick Puerta WR/DB 7 Ryan Becka FB/LB 8 Demeris Taylor RB/LB 9 Lloyd Gilmore WR/DB 11 Jacob Brandt WR/DB 12 Jose Carrillo WR/OLB 13 Colby Cooper WR/OLB 14 Justin Busby WR/DB 16 Johnathan King QB/LB 17 Kyle Truss WR/LB

Number Name Position 19 Aden Stackhouse FB/OLB 20 Zach Werner WR/DB 21 Lester McKenzie RB/OLB 23 Hayden Mach TE/LB 24 Isidro Carillo RB/OLB 25 Dalton Caughman WR/DB 27 Sam Cox WR/OLB 28 Alberto Estrada WR/OLB 30 Ulises Soto FB/OLB 33 Robert Millet-Campbell WR/DB 40 Coltin Whitaker TE/LB 42 Briley Ward FB/OLB Jack Shearer TE/LB 44

Number Name Position 48 Jared Johnson WR/DB 50 Thomas Borgstedte OL/DL 51 Cameron Stech OL/LB 54 Mateo Enchavarria OL/DL 55 Haydne McIntyre OL/DL 56 Tyler Kelly OL/DL 59 Tre Scott OL/DL 60 Sean Cantwell OL/DL 61 Brandon Hutchison OL/DL 63 Diego Lopez OL/DL 64 Whyatt Melancon OL/DL 65 C.J. Caine OL/DL 66 Ryan McCourt OL/DL

Fayette Co. Football Preview

70 75 76 77 78

Isacc Rodriguez OL/DL Josue Lopez OL/DL Ariel Vasquez OL/DL Kyler Sacky OL/DL Quentin Carter OL/DL

Manager: Garrett Noak Coaches: Robert Barber, Chris Billings, Will McGonagle • Some Names included on both Varsity and JV as coaches were making final determinations at press time

Tuesday, August 29, 2017 13

La Grange Freshman Football Team Number Name 2 Layne Vasek 3 Garrett Gilmore 4 Brodie Filla 5 Wyatt Wick 6 Caleb Arthur 7 Jordan Scott 8 Mitchell Schulze 9 Hunter Brown 10 Alijah Grant 11 Keaton Sullivan 12 Gage Clarke 13 Adam Faske 14 Efrin Valles

Position REC REC REC REC QB REC REC REC REC REC REC QB REC

Number Name 15 Caden Cooper 16 Blake Truss 17 Jacoby Cavit 18 Jacob Menconi 19 Brandon Scott 20 Rider Reid 21 Sirr Williams 22 LaDarion McKenzie 23 DJ Taylor 24 Robert Bundick 25 Trey East 27 Rachard Clay 28 Dylan Truss

Position QB REC REC REC RB RB REC REC RB REC RB REC REC

Number Name Position 30 Decorean HendersonREC 33 Grant Juno FB 34 Joshua Mertink FB 40 Martinez REC 42 Colby Spann FB 44 Kaleb Burton FB 48 Joseph Mueller TE 50 Braeden Wilder OL 51 Philip Matocha OL 52 Coy Gillam OL 55 Joseph Gates OL 56 Brayden Taylor OL 58 Carlos Rubio OL

Number Name 60 Mason Friedel 63 Preston Brune 64 Josue DeSantiago 66 Mark Arbuckle 68 Kaleb Pyle 70 Jose Alvarez 74 Julian Mancera 76 Adrian Ortiz 80 Javier Lopez 88 Haidyn Schramm 99 Colton Knape

Managers: Ben Gerik, David Krupala, Lacy Melancon, Tyler Schomburg

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FAYETTE CO. FOOTBALL PREVIEW

Position OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL

Photo by Smile Time

La Grange Coaching Staff Front Row: (left to right) William McGonagle (cornerbacks) Chris Billings (defensive line) Robert Barber (offensive line) Matt Kates (head coach/athletic director) Will Kates (assistant head coach/offensive coordinator) Patrick Walker (tight ends) Lee Essman (safeties)

Back row: Rusty Cauthern (defensive coordinator, inside linebackers) Eric Amick (wide receivers) Heath Golan (outside linebackers) David Cooper (running backs) James Magness (outside linebackers) Erica Williamson (trainer)

Thank You for voting me the Best Barber in Fayette County!

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TUESDAY, AUGUST 29, 2017 15

La Grange High School Varsity Cheerleaders Front Row: Brenna Ianelli (Soph), Grace Sims - Head Cheerleader (Sr.), Lauren Little Lulu (Jr.), Brittany Davis (Soph), Lexi Zapata (Jr.) Back Row: Sh’Lea Benford (Sr), Raelynn McCoy (Soph), Claire Supak (Jr.), Taylor Head - Co-Head Cheerleader (Sr.), Jenna Wenske (Jr.), Madalyn Hopson (Soph), Blayne Bippert (Soph), Kaitlyn Little (Sr.)

La Grange High School JV Cheerleaders Delaney Smidovec (Freshman), Kailee Jones (Freshman), Avery Srubar (Freshman), Yesenia Martinez (Freshman), David Krupala (Freshman), Harper Westall (Freshman), Aryn Srubar (Freshman), Angie Guiterrez (Sophomore), Allison Veilleux (Freshman)

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979-968-3467 547 E. Travis - La Grange, Texas 78945 FAYETTE CO. FOOTBALL PREVIEW

Photo by Smile Time

La Grange High School Dance Team Front: Taylor Kalina, Allison Jordy, Lexi Havelka, Paulina Monjares Middle: Sofia Ruiz, Jarie Logan, Jordyn VonMinden, Yitzel Lopez, Natalie Martinez, Rosa Rios, Joana Rodriguez, Zariya Ross, Maria Mendez

Back: Belen Cerda, Bryssa Rios, Dallas Green, Laney Urban, Zerainah Hoffmann, Marisa Torres, Madison Lambert, Marlen Urbina

Special shout out to #50 Jakob Schlemmer Love – Mom, Dad and all your family FAYETTE CO. FOOTBALL PREVIEW

TUESDAY, AUGUST 29, 2017 17

Photo by Smile Time

La Grange Mighty Leopard Marching Band

Have a Great Season Leps!

Football & Band 515 East Travis, La Grange • www.farmerslumber.com • 979-968-3161

18 TUESDAY, AUGUST 29, 2017

FAYETTE CO. FOOTBALL PREVIEW

Fayette County

Fayette County Football 2017

Panthers Excited for Year Three

By JEFF WICK

The Fayette County Record

C.H. Harvey admits that there was a lot of scepticism two years ago when he spearheaded a six-man football program for the kids of Fayetteville and Round TopCarmine ISD, two small schools that didn’t have football programs.

Those doubters had some more ammo when the Fayette County Panthers went just 1-7 their first season.

But last year the Panthers really hit their stride, going 6-3 and ending the season as the No. 2 ranked team among the nearly 20 independent six-man squads in the state.

“We’ve made a pretty big jump and it’s 100 percent from hard work and maturity,” said senior Braden Rohde. “Year one we were just hoping we could get a guy down. We understand how to play football now.”

“The critics have seen it’s a worthwhile program,” Harvey said.

And opponents have seen it’s a tough program. Harvey said it was much easier building a schedule the first two years as other teams thought the Panthers would provide an easy win.

See Panthers, Page 21

Braden Rohde runs down the field with the ball in action last season. To the left is teammate David Harvey. Rohde is a senior was the team’s leading rusher a year ago.

Fayette County Football By The Numbers

2

This is the statewide rank last year where the Panthers ended up in the final sixmanfootball.com independent rankings.

5

This is the improvement (in number of wins) last year compared to the first year the team played in 2015, when they went 1-7.

14:2

This is the ratio of Fayetteville to Round Top-Carmine players on this year’s Panthers team. The two communities combine to field the team.

Quick Hits Last year’s record: 6-3 overall Returnees: The Panthers have nine players who started at some point last season on either offense or defense. They include: Jagger Wessels, Reid Kubala, Arnulfo Carrillo, Lyle Muesse, Braden Rohde, Matthew Daniel, Vincent Mathis, Kody Drake and David Harvey.

Taqueria Rio Verde Best of Luck in your up coming Season!

1330 N. Jefferson, La Grange • (979) 540-0060 FAYETTE CO. FOOTBALL PREVIEW

TUESDAY, AUGUST 29, 2017 19

Fayette County Six-Man Panthers Number Name 1 Jagger Wessels 3 Cole Brackman 4 Kyler Vasut 5 Reid Kubala 7 Arnulfo Carrillo 10 Lyle Muesse 12 Braden Rohde 13 Matthew Daniel

Class Jr. Soph.

Soph.

Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr.

Number Name 22 Vincent Mathis 23 Dustin Hoefelmeyer 25 Stuart Castro 31 Braden Kubala 36 Jason McCoy 50 Mason Hoefelmeyer 66 Kody Drake 95 David Harvey

Class Jr. Soph.

Jr. Soph.

Jr. Soph.

Sr. Jr.

#95 David Harvey Jr.

#1 Jagger Wessels Jr.

Fayette County Panthers Trying to Build on Last Year’s Six-Win Season Continued from Page 19

Suddenly, some programs are not so quick to schedule Fayette County.

But the Panthers have some

work to do to get back to last year’s level and beyond.

Star quarterback Matthew Sotobier has graduated and David Harvey and Jagger Wessels are

working to fill that role.

Still, the Panthers have nine players who started at one point or another last season, so there should be lot of victories to cel-

ebrate again this season.

“I’m going to my 50th high school reunion later this year and after the re-introductions and stuff, I know we’re going to be

talking about the football games we played. That’s the kind of thing you remember and I’m really glad these kids are able to make those kind of memories,” Harvey said.

PROUD SUPPORTER OF FAYETTE COUNTY FOOTBALL! Wishing the Shorthorns, Bulldogs, Leopards and Panthers a successful football season.

1903 Janssen Ln • La Grange, TX 78945 • 979-968-3738 Philip H Oestreich, FIC Financial Associate

Sydney B Spano Associate

Appleton, Wisconsin • Minneapolis, Minnesota • Thrivent.com • 800-847-4836

20 TUESDAY, AUGUST 29, 2017

FAYETTE CO. FOOTBALL PREVIEW

25635SP R9-16

Fayette County Six-Man Varsity

#3 Cole Brackman Soph.

#4 Kyler Vasut Soph.

#5 Reid Kubala Sr.

#7 Arnulfo Carrillo Sr.

#10 Lyle Muesse Sr.

#12 Braden Rohde Sr.

#13 Matthew Daniel Jr.

#22 Vincent Mathis Jr.

# 23 Dustin Hoefelmeyer Soph.

#25 Stuart Castro Jr.

Panthers 2017 Schedule

#31 Braden Kubala Soph.

#36 Jason McCoy Jr.

#50 Mason Hoefelmeyer Soph.

#66 Kody Drake Sr.

September 8 – Round Rock Concordia 7:30 p.m.

15 – @ Houston Mt. Carmel 7:30 p.m.

22 – Victoria Cobras 7:30 p.m.

October 7 – vs. Medina at Bulverde 2 p.m.

13 – @ Buckholts 7:30 p.m.

20 – @ Bulverde Bracken 7:30 p.m.

27 – Williamson County 7:30 p.m.

November 4 – SA Great Hearts (Homecoming) 7 p.m.

11 – vs. Campbell ISD, Location/Time TBD Bold indicates home game Home Games to be Played at Hohlt Park, 2425 N. Park St. in Brenham

GOOD LUCK

TO ALL AREA HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL! Round Top

La Grange

Giddings

Lexington

Eagle Bank - Jarrell, Tx

Eagle Bank - Round Rock

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Branch 2010 Hwy.71 West

Branch 1442 E. Austin

Branch 8681 Hwy 77

A Branch of Round Top State Bank 12345 N. IH 35

FAYETTE CO. FOOTBALL PREVIEW

A Branch of Round Top State Bank 2250 N. A. W. Grimes Blvd.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 29, 2017 21

FLATONIA BULLDOGS

Fayette County Football 2017

Flatonia Hoping For Another Deep Run

By JEFF WICK

The Fayette County Record

As a guy who grew up and played ball in the town he now coaches in, Flatonia football is very, very special to Chris Freytag.

That’s also why the Bulldogs run to the state quarterfinals last year was so special to Freytag, who begins his eighth year as Bulldogs head coach this season.

“When I was hired, it was my goal to put us back on the football map,” Freytag said.

And with deep playoffs runs three of the last four years the Bulldogs have done that.

“It’s very special seeing the pride of the town ... I can’t explain how proud I am. Last year’s seniors played in 10 playoff games during their careers.”

But those seniors, who were such a big part of those recent postseason runs have graduated, and Freytag hopes the 2017 Bulldogs do more reloading than rebuilding.

“This group understands the work they need to do. We are not as talented as we were last year but we can be a good football team,” said Freytag, who will not have a JV team this season.

This year’s Bulldogs may take some lumps early during a brutal non-district schedule, but Freytag is quick to point out that last year’s Bulldogs went 1-4 before rattling off eight consecutive wins.

Continued on next page

Flatonia’s Lucas Herrera runs the football during a game last year. He is the leading returner rusher on the Bulldogs this season.

Photo by Stephanie Steinhauser

Flatonia Football By The Numbers

10

This is the number of playoff games that Flatonia has played over the last four years.

33

This is total number of high school players for Flatonia this season, not quite enough to allow for a varsity and JV team.

36-43

This is Flatonia head coach Chris Freytag’s overall record in his seven seasons leading the Bulldogs.

From start to finish

Joe Rogers Dozer LLC (979) 966-7798

supports our Leopards.

22 TUESDAY, AUGUST 29, 2017

FAYETTE CO. FOOTBALL PREVIEW

Quick Hits Last year’s record: 9-5 overall, 5-0 in district Returning starters: Four on offense, Four on defense Last playoff appearance: 2016, Lost to Burton in the state quarterfinals.

Reason to be confident: Tradition: The Bulldogs have made deep playoff runs three of the last four years.

Lingering question: Can they overcome lots of Inexperience and tough early schedule.

Flatonia Has an Uphill Battle After Graduating Talented Senior Class Continued from previous page “Our players know the (non-district) schedule is tough for a reason,” Freytag said.

Once district play starts, the only team that could stand between Flatonia and a repeat as district champs is Falls City.

Besides new faces on the field, Freytag has said goodbye to last year’s offensive coordinator Tommy Bludau (former Schulenburg and Columbus head coach). Tommy has retired and his son, Kyle, an assistant on last year’s team, is now coaching in Columbus.

In Tommy’s place, Freytag has promoted Brandon Williams to offensive coordinator.

“Brandon’s young and full of ideas,” Freytag said. “I’m excited. He lives and breathes football.”

Those new ideas may be needed. Last year’s Flatonia team was so physical they could run the ball down opponents’ throats, and rarely had to throw the ball.

“This year we’re going to have to throw the ball some,” Freytag said.

Here’s a look at the team Freytag will send to the field this season.

Offensively the Bulldogs return four starters from last year’s team. Running back Lucas Herrera returns after rushing for 686 yards and 11 touchdowns last year. Also returning is fullback Jonathan Gonzales, and offensive linemen Shane Templeton and Dustin Luck.

A new quarterback will take over. Senior Seth Patten has won the job.

“He’s a smart kid that really knows the offense,” Freytag said. “So far I’ve been pleased.”

He’ll be backed-up by sophomore Juan Netro. At running back, Freytag said Lucas Herrera has gained 20 pounds of muscle since last season. He’ll see a lot of carries along with Dakory Willis, Marco Lopez and move-in A.J. Rios.

“Herrera and Willis have big play ability, we just have to get the ball in their hands,” Freytag said.

The wide receivers who will factor in Flatonia’s plans to pass the ball a little more this season include Erek Herrera, Drew Ellis, Netro, Ricardo Oliveras and Izick Hernandez.

Besides returnees Templeton (center) and Luck (a guard) on the offensive line, other projected starters are Seth Janak at tight end, William Ackermann at guard, and move-in Cameron Becker at tackle. The other tackle position is a battle between Lane Brunner and Giovanni Aguillon.

Other back-ups on the offensive line are

The Flatonia coaching staff, left to right: Front row, Todd Law, head coach Chris Freytag, Steve Pope, Brandon Williams; Back row: Troy Bohac, Rodney Stryk, and Bryan Zimmerman.

Photo by Jeff Wick

Proudly serving the community for 100 years!

Schulenburg (979)743-4576

Netro will punt, Marco Lopez will handle kick-offs and Manzano will kick extra points and field goals.

Freytag hopes this is a group that can keep Flatonia on the football map as one of the top small schools teams in Region IV. “Hopefully we can build on that momentum from last year,” Templeton said.

“We’ve gotta have some underclassmen step up. There’s big shoes to fill but it can be done.”

Flatonia Bulldog Varsity August 18 – Poth (Scrimmage) 6 p.m.

25 – @ Ganado (Scrimmage) 6 p.m.

September 1 – Tidehaven 8 – @ Sacred Heart 15 – @ St. Paul 22 – Brazos (Parents Night) 29 – @ Thrall

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

October 6 – Open 13 – @ Louise* 20 – @ Runge* 27 – Pettus*

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

November 3 – @ Falls City* 7:30 p.m.

10 – Charlotte* (Homecoming) 7:30 p.m.

Traditional Banking that’s here to stay!

Fayetteville (979) 378-4261

Javier Torres and Eric Cedillo.

Defensively, Freytag said he is pretty confident in the team’s linebackers and secondary, but “but we have to find some guys up front that can make plays.”

Among the guys battling for those front three spots in the Bulldogs 3-4 defense are: Cedillo, Becker, Steven Macilla, Edward Houston and Templeton.

Starting at the inside linebacker spots are Janak and Gonzales and starting outside linebackers are Hernandez and Lucas Herrera. Back-up linebackers are Chris Johnson and Ulysses Castillo.

Manzano will start at one cornerback position with a three-way battle at the other spot between Willis, Erek Herrera and Drew Ellis.

Starting free safety will be Ricardo Oliveras (a freshman), backed-up by Patten.

Strong safety will be Netro, backed up

by Josh Medina.

La Grange (979) 968-3200

Bold indicates home game * indicates district game

UCK L F O E BEST F TH O L L !

TO A AMS E T ALL B T O FO

www.fayettevillebank.com Equal Housing Lender Member FDIC

FAYETTE CO. FOOTBALL PREVIEW

TUESDAY, AUGUST 29, 2017 23

Photo by Melanie Berger, Courtesy of The Flatonia Argus

Flatonia Varsity Football Team Number Name 1 Erek Herrera 4 Lucas Herrera 6 Ulysses Castillo 7 Enrique Manzano 8 Josh Medina 10 Seth Patten 16 Seth Janak 18 Marco Lopez 20 Daniel Willis 22 Juan Netro 23 Drew Ellis 24 A.J. Rios 28 Jonathan Gonzales 30 Chris Johnson 32 Ricardo Oliveras 33 Izick Hernandez 34 Dakory Willis 44 Edward Houston 50 Matthew Ponewash 51 Trey Dornak

Position WR/DB RB/DB RB/DE WR/DB WR/DB QB/FS TE/LB RB/LB WR/DB WR/S/S WR/DB RB/DT RB/LB TE/DE WR/DB QB/DE RB/DB TE/DT C/DT C/LB

Class Soph Senior Soph Junior Senior Senior Senior Junior Senior Soph Senior Senior Senior Freshman Freshman Freshman Soph Junior Soph Freshman

Number Name 54 Shane Templeton 55 Lane Brunner 56 Steven Mancilla 58 Dustin Luck 60 Cameron Becker 62 Colten Flood

Position C/DT OL/DL OL/DT G/DT T/DT TE/DE

Class Senior Senior Soph Junior Soph Freshman

#79 Giovannni Aguillon T/LB Fr.

Number Name 64 William Ackermann 68 Javier Torres 77 Eric Cedillo 78 Samuel Martinez 79 Giovanni Aguillon 80 Cash Mares 84 Taylor O’Reilly

#80 Cash Mares WR/DB Soph.

W

283 E. Railroad Avenue

La Grange, Tx 78945

Giddings, Tx 78942

979.968.3377

979.542.7300

W

W

.

J

O

N E

S

A

N D

C

O

W

E N

.

C

O

M

Accepting All Major Insurances Including Medicare and Medicaid.

24 TUESDAY, AUGUST 29, 2017

FAYETTE CO. FOOTBALL PREVIEW

Class Junior Senior Junior Freshman Freshman Soph Freshman

#84 Taylor O’Reilly WR/CB Fr.

Best of Luck to all Fayette County Football Teams!

657 E. Travis St. • Suite C

Position G/LB G/DT T/DT T/DT T/LB WR/DB WR/CB

Flatonia Varsity

#1 Erek Herrera, WR/DB, Soph

#4 Lucas Herrera

RB/DB Sr.

#6 Ulysses Castillo RB/DE Soph

#7 Enrique Manzano WR/DB Jr.

#8 Josh Medina WR/DB Sr.

#10 Seth Patten QB/FS Sr.

# 16 Seth Janak TE/LB Sr.

#18 Marco Lopez RB/LB Jr.

#20 Daniel Willis WR/DB Sr.

#22 Juan Netro WR/S/S Soph.

#23 Drew Ellis WR/DB Sr.

#24 A.J. Rios RB/DT Sr.

#28 Jonathan Gonzales RB/LB Sr.

#30 Chris Johnson TE/DE Fr.

#32 Ricardo Oliveras WR/DB Fr.

P.O. Drawer B Flatonia, TX. 78941 (361) 865-3544 FAX (361) 865-3666

Best of ! s g o d l l u B k c u L FAYETTE CO. FOOTBALL PREVIEW

TUESDAY, AUGUST 29, 2017 25

Flatonia Varsity

#33 Izick Hernandez QB/DE Fr.

#34 Dakory Willis RB/DB Soph.

#54 Shane Templeton C/DT Sr.

#55 Lane Brunner

#62 Colten Flood TE/DE Fr.

OL/DL Sr.

#64 William Ackermann G/LB Jr.

#44 Edward Houston TE/DT Jr.

#50 Matthew Ponewash C/DT Soph.

#51 Trey Dornak C/LB Fresh.

#56 Steven Mancilla OL/DT Soph.

#58 Dustin Luck G/DT Jr.

#60 Cameron Becker T/DT Soph.

#68 Javier Torres

#77 Eric Cedillo T/DT Jr.

#78 Samuel Martinez T/DT Fr.

G/DT Sr.

Good Luck Bulldogs!

F L AT O N

400 S. Colorado • Box 219 • Flatonia, Tx 78941

BULLD OGS

Cal-Maine Foods, Inc. (361) 865-3592 • Fax (361) 865-3873 26 TUESDAY, AUGUST 29, 2017

FAYETTE CO. FOOTBALL PREVIEW

IA

SCHULENBURG SHORTHORNS

Fayette County Football 2017

Schulenburg Hungry for Postseason

By JEFF WICK

The Fayette County Record

After back-to-back 5-5 seasons, the Schulenburg Shorthorn team is ready for more.

And it appears that this year, the Shorthorns may have the collection of players to get back to the playoffs for the first time since 2013.

Just consider this infusion of talent that’s new for 2017: • A trio of seniors who didn’t play last year have returned to the program, Derek Valchar, Ty Guentert, and Cole Heller. And all three could have started last year, if they had played, said head coach Brandon Brown. That trio adds to what is an already impressive senior class. Of the 27 Shorthorn players on varsity, more than half, 14, are seniors.

• Another senior Myles Thomas, a tall athletic basketball star for the Shorthorns is playing football for the first time in his high school career.

• Junior move-in Walker Sine was a star wide receiver and defensive back for a 12-2 Sonora team last year and is competing with senior Jase Hollas for the starting quarterback job. The one who doesn’t win the QB job will shift out to wide receiver, and will likely be the team’s best passing target, Brown said.

“Walker’s been a great addition to the team. Honestly I don’t care where I end up playing, I just want to help the team,” Hollas said.

• And then in the coaches office is another newcomer, David Sine, a former head coach at Flatonia, Columbus, Bandera and Sonora (where he went four rounds deep in the playoffs last year).

He’ll be assisting with the offense.

Besides a wealth of football knowledge, Sine has brought some fun tweaks to the program, like the “Turnover Belt.” It looks like a wrestling championship belt, and the most recent player to force a turnover gets ownership of the belt until someone else forces a turnover. Sine said he got the idea from the University of Alabama football program and used it in Sonora.

When you take all these additions into consideration, it’s an exciting time for the Shorthorns.

“We are looking a lot better this year,” Hollas said.

“We’ve been making excuses the last few years and it’s time

Cason Brown fights for yardage with the football last season.

Photo by Audrey Kristynik

to get it done,” said Brown, who enters his fourth season as Shorthorns coach. “We don’t have any major weak spots. There’s some concern with the offensive line ... we’ve got some guys that are unproven ... we’ve just gotta find a way to win.”

Here’s a look at the team Brown will send to the field to try to return Schulenburg football to the elite level is has been so often over the past few decades.

Offensively six starters return from last year, including running back Cason Brown, Hollas, lineman Juan Reyna and Jaxon Fietsam, and receiver Jack Seyl.

Schulenburg Football By The Numbers

14

This is the total number of seniors on this year’s Schulenburg varsity team, meaning more than half the varsity is seniors.

3

This is the number of seniors who came out for football this season who didn’t play last year, and who have already won starting spots on this year’s team.

4

This is numbers of rounds deep in the playoffs Sonora went last year led by new Schulenburg assistant coach David Sine and his son Walker, who was a two-way starter on the team.

Fayette Co. Football Preview

Fietsam makes the move to tight end this year and Cason Brown will likely see more carries this season after being primarily a fullback the last two seasons.

Other projected starters offensively include Valchar at the other running back spot, Miles Marburger/Sine/Hollas as the other receiver, Kenley Smith at center, Shawn Allen and Austin Klesel at the tackle spots, and Francisco Lara at right guard.

Defensively six starters also return for the Shorthorns. Cason Brown returns at

See Shorthorns, next page

Quick Hits Last year’s record: 5-5 overall, 2-4 in district Returning starters: Six on offense, six on defense Last playoff appearance: 2013, Lost to Poth in the second round of the playoffs.

Reason to be confident: There’s a big infusion of talent thanks to four projected starters who were not even playing football at SHS a year ago.

Lingering question: The Shorthorns are in a very tough district.

Tuesday, August 29, 2017 27

Schulenburg Varsity Football Team Number Name 2 Jack Seyl 3 Brayden Duarte 4 Jaxon Fietsam 5 Walker T. Sine 6 Chris Herrera 7 Hunter Schulz 8 Braxton Brown 9 Ivan Martinez 10 Ty Guentert 14 Myles Thomas 21 Jase Hollas

Position WR/DB RB/DB OL/DL WR/DB WR/DB RB/LB RB/LB TE/DE TE/DE WR/DB WR/DB

Class 12 10 10 11 11 11 12 12 12 12 12

22 24 25 34 50 51 55 61 65 66 68 70

Cole Heller Miles Marburger Derek Valchar Cason Brown Austin Klesel Garrett LeBlue Dhruvkumar Patel Thomas Lara Robert Mear Juan Reyna Michael Garcia Mario Lara

WR/DB WR/DB RB/LB RB/LB OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/LB OL/DL OL/DL

12 12 12 12 11 12 12 11 11 12 11 11

72 Francisco Lara OL/LB 11 75 Shawn Allen OL/DL 11 78 Kenley Smith OL/DL 11 79 Christian Tovar OL/DL 12 Managers: Caitlin Norrell, Kori Valchar, Isabella Brown

Head Coach: Brandon Brown Off. Coordinator/Asst. Head Coach: Gilbert Price

Def. Coordinator: Derrick Neelley Asst. Coaches: Madison Redmann, CJ Hurst, Bob Lantelme, Joe Ward, David T. Sine,Tyler Carpenter

Shorthorns Have Infusion of New Talent Continued from previous middle linebacker, Allen, Christian Tovar and Juan Reyna on the defensive front and defensive backs Seyl and Hollas.

Other new projected starters on the defense include Guentert and Fietsam as defensive ends, Valchar and Schultz as outside linebackers, Heller at cornerback (opposite Seyl) and Sine as the free safety and Hollas as the strong safety. Sine is the fastest player on the team, Brown said.

Mario Lara will kick and Seyl will punt.

Altogether it’s a very talented varsity bunch, Brown said. But it’s also one that will get tested very early.

28 Tuesday, August 29, 2017

Three of the four non-district opponents for Schulenburg went to the playoffs last year. The Shorthorns open their regular season against the toughest of the bunch, Hallettsville, which went 13-1 in 2016.

“I want to see that speed early,” Brown said.

After non-district play it doesn’t get any easier for the Shorthorns, as defending state finalist Boling and East Bernard (which went 11-2 last year) will likely rule 14-3A. That leaves the other five teams fighting for the final two playoffs spots.

With this year’s new injection of players, the Shorthorns fully expect to be one of those postseason teams.

Fayette Co. Football Preview

Jack Seyl makes a move with the football after making a catch last season against Tidehaven.

Photo by Audrey Kristynik

Schulenburg Varsity

#2 Jack Seyl WR/DB Sr.

#3 Brayden Duarte RB/DB So.

#4 Jaxon Fietsam OL/DL So.

#5 Walker T. Sine WR/DB Jr.

#6 Chris Herrera WR/DB Jr.

#7 Hunter Schulz RB/LB Jr.

#8 Braxton Brown RB/LB Sr.

#9 Ivan Martinez TE/DE Sr.

#10 Ty Guentert TE/DE Sr.

#14 Myles Thomas WR/DB Sr.

#21 Jase Hollas WR/DB Sr.

#22 Cole Heller WR/DB Sr.

#24 Miles Marburger WR/DB Sr.

#25 Derek Valchar RB/LB Sr.

#34 Cason Brown RB/LB Sr.

Good Luck This Season Schulenburg Shorthorns!!

I-10 & 77 at Schulenburg Exit FAYETTE CO. FOOTBALL PREVIEW

979-743-4111 or 800-715-4111 www.chuckbrownford.com TUESDAY, AUGUST 29, 2017 29

Schulenburg Varsity

#50 Austin Klesel OL/DL Jr.

#51 Garrett LeBlue OL/DL Sr.

#55 Dhruvkumar Patel OL/DL Sr.

#61 Thomas Lara OL/DL Jr.

#65 Robert Mear OL/DL Jr.

Schulenburg Shorthorns

August 18 – San Antonio Cole (Scrimmage) 6 p.m.

24 – @ Rice (Scrimmage) 7:15 p.m.

#66 Juan Reyna OL/LB Sr.

#68 Michael Garcia OL/DL Jr.

#70 Mario Lara OL/DL Jr.

#72 Francisco Lara OL/LB Jr.

Schulenburg vs.

Weimar is DQ Big Game of the Week

#75 Shawn Allen OL/DL Jr.

#78 Kenley Smith OL/DL Jr.

GO

#79 Christian Tovar OL/DL Sr.

The Schulenburg vs. Weimar football game Sept. 22 has been billed that week’s DQ Big Game of the Week. Crews from Fox Sports Southwest will be in both towns shooting footage and then a documentary of the game will appear later that night on Fox Sports SW.

HORNS! Compliments of

Tank Rentals

Sales & Service 30 TUESDAY, AUGUST 29, 2017

FAYETTE CO. FOOTBALL PREVIEW

September 1 – @ Hallettsville 8 – Luling 15 – Ganado 22 – @ Weimar 29 – Open

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

October 6 – @ Bloomington* 13 – East Bernard* 20 – @ Danbury* 27 – Boling*

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

November 3 – @ Tidehaven* 11 – Brazos *

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

Bold indicates home game * indicates district game

Schulenburg Junior Varsity Football Team # 2 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 13

Name Trinity Houston Hayden Aston Jordan Jurena Temon Glover Vinet Patel George Martinez Justin Stang TJ Speed Isaias Lara

Licensed, Bonded & Insured

# 14 15 20 21 23 25 35 50 51

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Name Bobby Smith Brett Janacek Bradley Macfadden Braxton Blasche Joseph Ekarius Jose Carrillo Jayson Schaefer Daniel Schaefer Cutter Morin

# 61 65 66 67 68 70 72 75 88

Name Enrique Toro Trevor Beyer Luis Lopez Colby Jochen Chris Herrera Jr Kyle Svetlik Colby Guzman Brandon Lara Connor Herzik

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FAYETTE CO. FOOTBALL PREVIEW

TUESDAY, AUGUST 29, 2017 31

d o o G Luck ! s p e L 1980 W. State Hwy. 71 Bypass, La Grange

979.242.5981 979.242.5981

108 W. Colorado St., La Grange

979.968.8327