Silsbee Bee Fall Sports Special Section

Page 44, FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE

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Page 2, FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE

SILSBEE FOOTBALL DATE DATE

OPPONENT OPPONENT

SITE SITE

8/29 9/00 9/05 9/00 9/12 9/00 9/19 9/00 9/26 9/00 10/03 9/00 10/10 10/00 10/17 10/00 10/24 10/00 10/31 10/00 11/07 10/00

Houston-Davis Name Team Diboll Name Team Lumberton Name Team Newton Name Team OPEN Name Team Jasper Name Team W.O.-S. Name Team BridgeTeam City Name Orangefield Name Team Hamshire-Fannett Name Team Hardin-Jefferson Name Team

A H H A H H A A

FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE, Page 43

LUMBERTON FOOTBALL

A H H A H A H H A A H H A

10/00 Name Team H 11/00 Name Team A 11/00 Name Team LADY TIGERS AA 11/00 Name Team DATE OPPONENT SITE 11/00 Name Team H 11/00 Name Team A 8/29 Kountze@Ozen 11/00 Name Team H 8/28-30 Ozen Tournament A 9/02 West Brook H Name Sponsor 9/04-06 Dickinson Tourn.

A 9/09 Jasper A 9/12 L.C.M H 9/11-13 L.C.M. Tourn.

A 9/16 Liberty A 9/19 Kirbyville A 9/18-20 P.N.G. Tourn.

A 9/23 Hardin-Jefferson H 9/30 Bridge City H 10/03 Hamshire-Fannett H 10/07 Orangefield A 10/10 W.O.-S. A 10/14 Hardin-Jefferson A 10/17 Bridge City A 10/21 Hamshire-Fannett A 10/24 Orangefield H 10/28 W.O.-S. H

DATE

8/29 9/05 9/12 9/19 9/26 10/03 10/10 1017 10/24 10/31 11/07

OPPONENT

SITE

Hamshire-Fannett Barbers Hill Silsbee OPEN Livingston Vidor Beaumont Central Beaumont Ozen P.N.G L.C.M Nederland

A H A H A H H A H A

KOUNTZE FOOTBALL DATE

8/29 9/05 9/12 9/19 9/26 10/03 10/10 10/17 10/24 10/31 11/07

LADY RAIDERS DATE

OPPONENT

8/28-30 Ham. Fann. Tourn.

8/29 Splendora 9/02 Livingston 9/04-06 @ YMBL Tourn 9/05 Crosby 9/09 Vidor 9/11-13 L.C.M Tourn.

9/16 Central 9/19 Ozen 9/23 P.N.G 9/26 L.C.M 9/30 Nederland 10/03 Livingston 10/07 Vidor 10/10 Central 10/14 Ozen 10/17 P.N.G. 10/21 L.C.M. 10/24 Nederland

OPPONENT

SITE

Woodville Bridge City Evadale Hull-Daisetta Warren Buna Deweyville Hardin Anahuac East Chambers OPEN

H A H A H A H A H A

LIONETTES SITE

DATE

OPPONENT

SITE

A A H A A A A H H A H A A H A A H A H

8/29 8/29-30 9/02 9/04-06 9/5 9/9 9/11-13 9/12 9/16 9/19 9/23 9/26 9/30 10/03 10/07 10/10 10/14 10/17 10/21 10/24

Silsbee Deweyville Tourn.

West Hardin YMBL Tourn.

W.O.-S. Splendora West Hardin Tour Buna Deweyville Hardin East Chambers Warren Anahuac Buna BYE Deweyville Warren Hardin East Chambers Anahuac

A A H A H A A H A H A H A A

Good Luck Area Sports Teams!

H A A H H

Southeast Texas Football Schedules

LADY REBS

22-2A Woodville Eagles Aug. 29 @ Kountze Sept. 5 Hardin-Jefferson Sept. 12 @ Warren Sept. 19 @ Shepherd Sept. 26 Corrigan-Camden Oct. 3 OPEN Oct. 10 Newton* Oct. 17 @ Shelbyville* Oct. 24 Kirbyville* Oct. 31 Hemphill* Nov. 7 @ San Augustine* 23-2A Anahuac Panthers Aug. 29 Houston Kinkaid Sept. 5 @ Danbury Sept. 12 Concordia Lutheran Sept. 19 @ Hitchcock Sept. 26 Deweyville* Oct. 3 @ Hardin* Oct. 10 OPEN Oct. 17 East Chambers* Oct. 24 @ Kountze* Oct. 31 Warren* Nov. 7 @ Buna* Buna Cougars Aug. 29 Trinity Sept. 5 @ Orangefield Sept. 12 Tarkington Sept. 19 @ Bridge City Sept. 26 @ East Chambers* Oct. 3 Kountze* Oct. 10 @ Warren* Oct. 17 OPEN Oct. 24 Deweyville* Oct. 31 @ Hardin* Nov. 7 Anahuac* Deweyville Pirates Aug. 29 @ Sabine Pass Sept. 5 @ Evadale Sept. 12 Hemphill Sept. 19 West Sabine Sept. 26 @ Anahuac* Oct. 3 East Chambers* Oct. 10 @ Kountze* Oct. 17 Warren* Oct. 24 @ Buna* Oct. 31 OPEN Nov. 7 Hardin* East Chambers Buccaneers Aug. 29 @ Orangefield Sept. 5 Newton Sept. 12 Hamshire-Fannett Sept. 19 @ Hardin-Jefferson Sept. 26 Buna* Oct. 3 @ Deweyville* Oct. 10 Hardin* Oct. 17 @ Anahuac* Oct. 24 OPEN Oct. 31 Kountze* Nov. 7 @ Warren*

will take them and their teammates to the next level.

“We always have our sights set on the district crown,” Hollyfield said. “We are senior loaded this season and we have a great core group still in place. I couln’t ask for a better situation to come back to Evadale than this.”

Hollyfield admitted that with the combining of two 1-A districts to form the new eight team district that includes Evadale, Goodrich, Burkeville, Colmesneil, Spurger, Sabine Pass, West Hardin and Hull Daisetta, it will take an all out effort everytime the Lady Rebs take the court.

“We prepare for our district matches by playing a pretty difficult pre-season schedule,“

From Section 1, Page 1 Hollyfield said. “We like to take on the bigger hitters and better servers in the area, so we can be more savy and ready for our district competitors.”

Lady Rebel seniors include: Lauren Anders and Lona Nichols (defensive specialists), and Marenda Block (middle blocker).

The rest of the lady Rebel squad consists of juniors: Bailey Gravis, Kayla Conner and Ariel Wills (outside hitters) and Carly Smith at the middle blocker position.

2008 Lady Rebels Volleyball Schedule Aug. 29 at Deweyville Sept. 2 at Warren Sept. 4-6 at Woodville Tourn.

Sept. 5 vs. Deweyville Sept. 9 vs. Kirbyville Sept. 11-13 at West Hardin JV Tourn.

Sept. 12 vs. Goodrich Sept. 16 at Burkeville

Read Rebels sports reports each week online at www.silsbeebee.com

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Sept. 19 at Colmesneil Sept. 23 vs. Spurger Sept. 26 vs. Sabine Pass Sept. 30 at West Hardin Oct. 3 at Hull Daisetta Oct. 7 at Goodrich Oct. 10 vs. Burkeville Oct. 14 vs. Colmesneil Oct. 17 at Spurger Oct. 21 at Sabine Pass Oct. 24 vs. West Hardin Oct. 28 vs. Hull Daisetta

Danny, Janet, Debbie, Gerry, Leah, Dwayne, Eric, Ryan, Sarah, Jessie, and Bobby

Good Luck To all Area Football Teams

Page 42, FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE

FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE Page 3

THE EVADALE REBELS: VOLLEYBALL PREVIEW

THE SILSBEE BEE FALL SPORTS PREVIEW

Big group shares big hopes for success in 2008 Area teams look to win titles for 2008 season If you cross the Neches River headed north toward Buna, Kirbyville and Jasper, don’t miss out on the opportunity to see some great District 23-A volleyball action at the Evadale Rebel Gymnasium.

Returning Coach Debbie Hollyfield is excited to be back in the blue and yellow confines

and is looking for a great season from her record number of volleyball players.

“We had 31 girls come out at the varsity, junior varsity and freshman levels,” Hollyfield smiled. “There aren’t many 1-A schools that have that kind of turn out. It speaks well for the tradition that Lady Rebel volley-

ball, and the brightness of it’s future. Out of those 31 young ladies, we still have 26 here.

They are serious about doing well this season.”

The Lady Rebels are returning six seniors and six lettermen (four of which were starters in ’07) from an experienced squad that tied for the district title last

year. By way of a coin toss, The Lady Rebels were relegated to the third playoff spot and were knocked out in the area round by their long-time nemesis, Iola.

“Megan Toms is the heart of the Lady Rebel machine,” Hollyfield said of her senior Most Valuable Player in District 23-A. “Megan is the best setter in our district,” Hollyfield continued. “In my opinion, she’s one of

the best in this region. Our success will hinge greatly upon the play of this young lady.”

Hollyfield had great praise for her outside hitters, Kristin Gregory and her identical twin sister Carolyn Gregory. After a 2007 season that saw the twin towers receive second team all district honors, the pair is looking to have a senior campaign that See LADY REBS on Page 43

It’s not often that everything good happens all at the same time.

But that’s the theme of the 2008 fall sports season for the four schools in The Silsbee Bee coverage area.

Of the four football teams, three are picked to win district.

The fourth team, with the right amount of luck, could pull off the upset and get that elusive district title under its belt.

Of the volleyball teams, three of the four are title contenders with the fourth team just a spike or two away from a possible playoff trip.

It’s going to be a good season for sports in Hardin County.

Silsbee

Evadale Varsity Lady Rebels include, front from left: Lona Nichols, Lauren Anders, Megan Toms and Shelbie Jordan (manager). Back from left: Coach Tasha McAdams, Carolyn Gregory, Kayla Conner, Marenda Block, Carly Smith, Bailey Gravis and Coach Debbie Hollyfield.

Evadale Freshman Lady Rebels include, front from left: Jessica Costlow, Kathryn Reeves, Ashle Shows, Holly Herrington and Shelbie Jordan (manager). Back from left: Coach Tasha McAdams, Holly Stringer, Hope Richardson, Brooke Tanton, Brianne Doyen and Coach Debbie Hollyfield.

Evadale Junior Varsity Lady Rebels include, front from left: Ashton Clark, Kathryn Reeves, Megan Anders, Daniella Linscomb and Shelbie Jordan (manager). Back from left: Coach Tasha McAdams, Shaneigh Nichols, Kacy Jones, Kayla Peevey, Haleigh Conner, Shalee Lewing and Coach Debbie Hollyfield.

Good Luck Evadale Rebels!!

The Tigers football team has shown steady improvement through its first two scrimmages and appears to be on its way to overcoming a late-season struggle in 2007.

The Tigers missed the playoffs for the first time in several years in 2007, but look to return to the postseason this year with a strong group of returning starters and a revived sense of excitement and optimism within the program.

On the volleyball court, the Lady Tigers have already shown they are the real deal.

In the opening tournament of the season, the Lady Tigers won the Vidor get-together, taking three all-tournament selections and the Most Valuable Player award with it.

More recently, the Silsbee girls placed second in the LaPorte Tournament, beating out a group of Class 5A schools en route to an impressive finish.

Watch for the Tigers cross country teams to do well this year too.

The Kountze Lions will count on a balanced game between its offense and defense to dominate opponents during the upcoming 2008 football season.

with another run at the league title.

This season’s onslaught will come thanks to a solid group of returning starters who know how to win.

In recent scrimmages, the Rebels have dominated on both offense and defense, giving Class 2A Warren all it could handle during a recent get-together.

The Lady Rebels volleyball team is on the verge of breaking out in 2008 thanks to the momentum they created in 2007.

Bee photo

by Michael Dickert

Lumberton The Raiders made school history last season with the team’s first-ever trip to the playoffs.

It was an exciting ride that culminated in a victory over La Marque, the defending 4A state champion.

But for this year’s squad, the 2007 season is a distant memory of good times.

The goal now is to be the best team possible with the personnel available today.

That team could well find its way to a district title in spite of a limited group of returning starters back on the roster.

The Lady Raiders are looking to make a quick impact this year with a strong core returning from this past season.

In a tough Class 4A district, every bit of luck helps. But these Lady Raiders seem to be able to control their own luck thanks to talent and experience.

Kountze The Lions football team was a breath away from going to the Class 2A state playoffs.

This year, Kountze will realize its goals with not only a trip to the postseason, but a district championship to boot.

The Lions beat East Chambers 14-13 last season to prove just how good they really were and this year, they’ll dominate as they run through district to that elusive district title.

Much of the success the Lions will likely see this season hinges on its defense and a muchimproved offense from last season.

The Lions won many of their games in 2007 thanks to the defense.

The Lionettes are back to their old tricks this season, winning early and often as they rocket toward their district schedule.

The Lionettes are always strong and this year is no exception.

Look for the Kountze girls to challenge for the district title yet again behind a strong group of upperclassmen who know nothing more than how to win.

Lay-a-ways 970 N 5th St

Fall Sports 2008 The Fall Sports 2008 Special Section is a product of The Silsbee Bee. Stories and photos were produced by Danny Reneau, Gerry L. Dickert, Dwayne Davis, Brent Guidry and Michael Dickert.

Special thanks goes to Buffy Miller of Provine Photography for her assistance in collecting many of the photographs in this section.

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Evadale District championships have become a thing of habit for the Rebels football team.

For years now, the Rebs have rolled through their Class A district to claim some of the top honors available, both as a team and for players individually.

In 2008, they will follow suit

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Page 4, FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE

FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE Page 41

THE SILSBEE TIGERS: FOOTBALL PREVIEW

THE EVADALE REBELS: FOOTBALL PREVIEW

Smaller team, bigger dreams Rebels would love to get back to Class A playoffs Heart shores of lack of size for Tigers in 2008 In the past, Silsbee High School has fielded football teams that featured big bulky lineman.

This year the team will have a little different look. There is not a single returning starter on the offensive line and though some of the lineman are still pretty big the overall look of the team is much smaller.

However a host of players return at the skill positions and this promises to be one of the fastest teams in years.

The big question will be if the line can block well enough for Coach Bobby McGallion’s team to operate effectively out of his spread offense.

The key to the offensive effort is Jeremy Johnson, The 165 pound junior had great success for the team as a starter in 2007.

He is the leading rusher returning on the team and also passed for 1675 yards.

Johnson can break the field open when he rolls out to pass.

He becomes as serious a threat to run as anyone in the backfield.

Last year he carried the ball 110 times for 621 yards. He completed 95 of 125 passes for 1675 yards.He was named as the newcomer of the year in the district.

Both of the Tigers running backs return form 2007. Chris Barnes a 148 pound junior carried 82 times for 504 yards.

Chris Castle a 175 pound senior lugged the ball 91 times for 587 yards. He was a first team all district performer in 2007.

Castle is a multi-threat player.

He will line up in a running back position but also may come to the line in anyone of several positions as a receiver.

There is no love loss for Lovelady in Evadale.

The Rebels took to the preseason with the idea that every step, every practice, every game — non-district or district — is a chance to get a bit closer to a rematch with Lovelady, the team that has kicked the Rebs out of the playoffs the past two years.

“Sure, we’re looking forward to a chance at that,” said Mark Williams, Evadale’s head football coach and athletic director.

“The kids would like another opportunity to show what they can do against those guys.

They’re a good team, but we believe we’re a good team too.”

“Good” might be an understatement for the Rebels this season as they return a full stable of seniors with years of experience under their belts.

Nine returning starters grace

the defensive side of the ball with eight of those seniors.

Leading the attack is Wes Massingill who returns after an all-district performance in 2007.

Playing safety last year, Massingill will move to outside linebacker this season.

Other seniors back on defense this year are Terrance Willis at linebacker, John Jones at tackle, Justin Crain in the secondary, Garth Baumann at nose guard, Mitchell Freeman at safety, and Justin Royal and Garrett Landis both playing in the secondary.

Billy Nichols, a sophomore, returns after earning some starts this past season, playing at the outside linebacker position.

Sophomores Tyler Tucker and Chris Harvey will play at tackle and inside linebacker, while junior Shelby Stanley plays linebacker this season.

Bee photo by Brent Guidry/www.bgphoto.org

The Silsbee Tigers will count on a swarming defense to make their way through a tough 3A district that includes West Orange-Stark, a team that has not lost a district game since dropping from Class 4A to 3A several seasons ago.

Last year he caught 30 passes for 413 yards.

Josh James a 160 pound senior and Rakheem Bolton, a 170 pound junior both saw some action in the offensive backfield last year and both figure to be active during the games this year.

Last year the Tigers graduated two time first team all district wide receiver Donovan Harris but they have a host of good receivers returning.

Chris Rountree, a 155 pound senior saw the most action last year of

any of them.

Prentice Lane, Chase Kelly and Pheal Hill all are pretty strong receivers.

Lane is a 153 pound sophomore, Hill is a 146 pound junior and Kelly is a 150 pound junior.

They have been joined by a senior who has been a star on the basketball court. The Tigers outstanding point guard, Shannon Robinson has put on the football pads. The 150 pound senior caught a number of passes in the See TIGERS on Page 5

An Evadale ball carrier is brought down by a crew of Warren defenders during a recent scrimmage between the teams.

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2008 Rebels Schedule Aug. 29 OPEN Sept. 5 Deweyville Sept. 12 at Kountze Sept. 19 at Beaumont Legacy Sept. 26 Sabine Pass* Oct. 3 at Hull-Daisetta* Oct. 10 Burkeville* Oct. 17 at High Island* Oct. 24 West Hardin* Oct. 31 Chester* Nov. 7 at Colmesneil* * District 21-3A game

On offense, Massingill was the horse, collecting 875 yards and 15 touchdowns on 162 carries while adding 257 yards on 24 pass receptions.

He was helped out by Freeman who collected 142 yards rushing on 26 carries in only three or four game appearances. Crain, who broke his leg last year, is expected to impact the offense big-time this season after collecting 185 yards on 48 carries in limited game time in 2007.

Nichols also got a hand on the ball with 25 carries for 134 yards last season, and is expected to make a bigger impact on this year’s squad.

The quarterback job is settled with Micah Stringer returning after collecting 1,172 yards, hitting 96 of 181 pass attempts with nine touchdowns and nine interceptions in 2007.

The offensive line is led by seniors Chance Burnett and Garth Baumann with John Jones

rounding out the returning talent.

Among the receiving corps, Justing Royal is back after collecting 230 yards on 16 catches, while teammage Landis had 409 yards and five touchdowns on 28 catches.

Hayden Dubose will likely start at the tight end position as a junior.

The kicking jobs will go to sophomore Josh Swift who will be the place kicker and Massingill who will punt.

Rebels fans will see their home team run out of a multiple formation set with about 60 percent of the snaps from scrimmage going to the running game.

The Rebs showed during a recent scrimmage in Warren that they are more than capable of throwing the ball and should be able to challenge most any defensive secondary they face.

Though Coach Williams admits that playing in an eight-

team district is a tough challenge, he also understands that all of his league foes must face that same daunting task.

“We’re all in the same boat,” he said. “We each get three nondistrict games and then we’re right in the middle of the games that matter the most.

“I’m hoping that with the experience we have that we will be ready to play right away. But until you get onto the field, it’s hard to know exactly what’s going to happen.”

The Rebels won’t get that chance to prove themselves until the first week of September as they spend Week 0 at home during an open week.

Evadale opens at home against 2A Deweyville, then travels to Kountze for a tough battle in the Lions Den. The Rebels’ final non-district game will be at Beaumont Legacy before league play starts vs. Sabine Pass.

Page 40, FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE

FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE Page 5

THE EVADALE REBELS: DISTRICT 23-A PREVIEW

Rebels, Bobcats battle it out for district title

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If there is something the Evadale Rebels understand, it’s how to win.

Right after that, they understand frustration.

For the past two years the Rebels have made the playoffs only to be ousted in the first round by Lovelady.

This year, the Rebs are solid again and the heir apparent to the District 23-A throne in 2008. In fact, it won’t even be close.

Evadale has nine offensive starters back from last year with quarterback Micah Stringer back after completing 96 passes

for 1,172 yards and nine touchdowns. His favorite target is wide receiver Garrett Landis who had 28 catches for 409 yards and five TDs. Running back Wes Massingill ran for 875 yards and 15 touchdowns on 162 carries in 2007.

On defense, the Rebs have nine starters back with linebacker Billy Nichols leading the way. Also at the linebacker spot are Terrance Wills and Chris Harvey.

Fourteen starters are back for a Hull-Daisetta team that went undefeated in district last year.

Five of those starters come in on the offensive side, including quarterback Sam Elliot who had 1,500 yards passing and 200 yards rushing. All-district running back Aaron Cook also returns.

On defense, nine starters are back with Cook leading the way.

First the West Hardin Oilers messed up Kountze’s homecoming, then came away with a playoff spot at the end of district. It was a good year for the Oilers.

They will try to repeat that success with quarterback Tyler Copeland back on offense after throwing for 600 yards and eight touchdowns last year.

Justin Doiron had 187 yards and three touchdowns rushing.

On defense, linebacker Cody Letsinger had 53 tackles last year, while defensive back Ben Miller recorded 33 tackles.

Burkeville is no stranger to success and they’ll be within striking distance of a playoff spot this year if things go well.

Six starters return on offense and give on defense with alldistrict starter Jaron Jenkins back to lead at defensive end.

Chester got whupped on last season, but ended strong with a big win over Burkeville. The Yellow Jackets are back with six offensive starters that includes quarterback Chase Franklin. On defense, Chester has four returning starters back

District 23-A Predictions 1. Evadale Rebels 2. Hull-Daisetta Bobcats 3. West Hardin Oilers 4. Burkeville Mustangs 5. Chester Yellow Jackets 6. Colmesneil Bulldogs 7. High Island Cardinals 8. Sabine Pass Sharks for 2008.

The Colmesneil Bulldogs finished 2007 without a win but success for the ‘Dogs is never very far away. Seven offensive starters return with quarterback Luke Bumstead leading the way. He had 715 yards and four touchdowns passing with 400 yards and four touchdowns rushing last season. He is joined by running back Jared Eaves who had 500 yards and three touchdowns. On defense, the Bulldogs return seven starters with Eaves and Jacob Adaway leading the attack.

In High Island, 15 starters are back from a 2-7 team. Of those, seven starters return on offense.

Quarterback Tiner George had 750 yards and eight touchdowns and also rushed for 550 yards and seven TDs. Miles Loop is his favorite aerial target.

On defense, eight starters are back, including linebacker Trey Hall, who had 99 tackles a year ago.

Sabine Pass are coming into just their third year competing in 11-man football, having collected a 4-12 record over the past two years.

Fourteen starters come back this season, including seven on offense. Drew Carlos will quarterback for the Sharks this season and Danzel Jones and Josh James will play at wide receiver.

On defense, seven starters return with end Logan Peltier leading with 45 tackles in 2007.

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TIGERS Tigers scrimmage against Beaumont Kelly.

The big task for Tiger coaches was to rebuild the offensive line.

They started by moving Shane White from defense to offense.

The 172 pound senior had a flawless performance in the first scrimmage. He was not able to play in the second scrimmage.

Early in the season the guard positions are manned by 184 pound senior John Whitmore and 195 pound senior Jazzma Sanders.

The two tackles are 250 pound senior Tarik Angelle and a move in 6’1” 240 pound Clint Evans.

Defensively there is a little more experience returning for the

From Page 4

2008 Tigers Schedule Aug. 29 at Houston Davis Sept. 5 Diboll Sept. 12 Lumberton Sept. 19 at Newton Sept. 26 OPEN Oct. 3 Jasper Oct. 10 at WOrange-Stark* Oct. 17 at Bridge City* Oct. 24 Orangefield* Oct. 31 at Hamshire-Fannett* Nov. 7 Hardin-Jefferson* * District 21-3A game

team, Patrick Steed a 263 pound senior anchors the line at one defensive tackle position. The other

will be manned by Eric Wilder a 197 pound senior.

Josh Skinner, a 6’4” 218 pound senior who is headed for Rice University mans one of the defensive end positions and the other will be manned by Levell Hawkins a 179 pound senior.

Skinner is the returning defensive leader. Last year he recorded 70 tackles and four sacks and was an all district selection.

One linebacker position will be manned by LaTarron Barnes, a 190 pound senior who started last year.

A hot battle is going on at the other linebacking position with Jacob Keefer, a Freshman, Caleb Henry a 165 pound sophomore and Rakheem Bolton a 170 pound senior all in the mix.

Three of the four players in the secondary have seen a lot of action. Josh James a 160 pound senior started last year. He will play the strong safety position.

Chris Castle, a returning starter will man the safety position and Chris Barnes who also saw a lot of action last year will man the left corner position. Jorian Turk, a 140 pound senior, Jarian See TIGERS on Page 6

The Tigers defense will be a key factor in how many games Silsbee wins this season. A district title could easily hinge on how SHS stops its opponents in 2008

High-flying aerial attacks will be the norm for Silsbee in 2008 with a strong receiving corps ready to haul in the big receptions as the season progresses.

Page 6, FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE

TIGERS Rhone, a 145 pound sophomore and Prentice Lane are all battling for playing time at the right corner position.

The Tigers face a schedule that is a little tougher than normal in non district play. They open against a Houston Davis team that finished last year at 7-3.

They did not make the playoffs but were one of the better teams in that area at the end of the season.

They have good skilled athletes, a good quarterback, a good receiver and a good running back.

Coach McGallion describes them as better than the Houston Sterling team Silsbee played last year. They have six offensive and five defensive starters returning off last years squad.

The Tigers will then host a Dibol team that finished last year at 9-2. They were bi-district finalist. They have six offensive and six defenive starters returning off that team and are expected to be much better than last year. Texas Football magazine

FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE Page 39

SOUTHEAST TEXAS FOOTBALL SCHEDULES

From Page 5 has tabbed them for second in the district behind Carthage and ahead of Jasper.

On Sept 12 the Tigers will renew their rivalry with their neighbors to the South, Lumberton.

Silsbee had dominated this series but Lumberton has reversed the trend and won the past couple of games. The two teams have not played for four years and Lumberton has gotten a lot stronger during that time period. Last year they were 11-2 and regional semi-finalist. This year they have two offensive and four defensive starters returning off last years squad.

Both Davis and Lumberton are 4A squads.

The Tigers will travel to the pinewoods for a game on Sept.

19 against Newton. The Eagles are a perennial power in class AA. Last year they finished the year with a record of 9-3. One of their victories was over the Tigers.

They have six offensive and five defensive starters returning

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21-5A Beaumont West Brook Bruins Aug. 29 Beaumont Ozen Sept. 5 Beaumont Central Sept. 12 Spring Westfield Sept. 19 @ Aldine Eisenhower Sept. 27 Katy (Sat. 5pm) Oct. 3 OPEN Oct. 10 @ Channelview* Oct. 17 Baytown Lee* Oct. 24 @ Port Arthur Memorial* Nov. 1 Baytown Sterling* (Sat. 3pm) Nov. 7 @ Galena Park North Shore* Port Arthur Memorial Titans Aug. 29 Beaumont Central Sept. 6 @ Beaumont Ozen (Sat./Babe Zaharias Stadium) Sept. 12 Aldine Nimitz Sept. 19 Houston Westbury Sept. 26 @ The Woodlands Oct. 3 OPEN Oct. 10 @ Galena Park North Shore* Oct. 17 @ Baytown Sterling* Oct. 24 Beaumont West Brook* Oct. 31 @ Channelview* Nov. 7 Baytown Lee*

JEREMY JOHNSON

this year and are again picked to win their district.

The Tigers will have a week off and then they will host their long time rivals.... The Jasper Bulldogs. Jasper has moved out of the district this year. They are now in District 18 with Carthage, Diboll, Rusk, Center and Huntington.

Jasper has five offensive and eight defensive starters returning off a 7-5 regional semi-finalist team.

Last year they won a squeaker over the Tigers in Jasper that knocked the Tigers out of the playoffs.

The schedule led Coach McGallion to stated, “We have a formidable non district schedule. There are no easy games on the schedule.” He went on to say, “That is all right I’m the one who made the schedule and I like going up against rough teams even if it does not turn out in your favor. Every game you have a good chance of getting better.

2008 Silsbee High School Varsity and Junior Varsity Head Cheerleaders: Shae Hart, left, and Ally Tanton.

19-4A Barbers Hill Eagles Aug. 29 Port Neches-Groves Sept. 5 @ Lumberton Sept. 12 vs Longview at SFA Sept. 19 Galena Park* Sept. 26 @ C.E. King* Oct. 3 Kingwood Park* Oct. 10 @ Goose Creek Memorial* Oct. 17 Dayton* Oct. 24 @ Crosby* Oct. 31 North Forest* Nov. 7 OPEN Dayton Broncos Aug. 29 Bay City Sept. 5 @ Friendswood Sept. 12 OPEN Sept. 19 Kingwood Park* Sept. 26 @ Goose Creek Memorial* Oct. 3 North Forest* Oct. 10 Crosby* Oct. 17 @ Barbers Hill*

Oct. 24 Galena Park* Oct. 31 @ C.E. King* Nov. 7 OPEN 20-4A Beaumont Central Jaguars Aug. 29 @ Port Arthur Memorial Sept. 5 @ Beaumont West Brook Sept. 12 Galveston Ball Sept. 19 OPEN Sept. 26 Vidor* Oct. 3 @ Little CypressMauriceville* Oct. 10 @ Lumberton* Oct. 17 Nederland* Oct. 24 @ Beaumont Ozen* (Alex Durley Stadium) Oct. 31 Livingston* Nov. 7 @ Port Neches-Groves* Beaumont Ozen Panthers Aug. 29 @ Beaumont West Brook Sept. 6 Port Arthur Memorial (Sat./Babe Zaharias Stadium) Sept. 12 @ Houston Worthing Sept. 19 OPEN Sept. 26 Nederland* (Alex Durley Stadium) Oct. 3 @ Livingston* Oct. 10 Vidor* (Babe Zaharias Stadium) Oct. 17 @ Lumberton* Oct. 24 Beaumont Central* (Alex Durley Stadium) Oct. 31 Port Neches-Groves* (Alex Durley Stadium) Nov. 7 @ Little CypressMauriceville* Little Cypress-Mauriceville Bears Aug. 29 OPEN Sept. 5 @ West Orange-Stark Sept. 12 @ Bridge City Sept. 19 Cleveland Sept. 26 @ Port Neches-Groves* Oct. 3 Beaumont Central* Oct. 10 Nederland* Oct. 17 @ Livingston* Oct. 24 Vidor* Oct. 31 @ Lumberton* Nov. 7 Beaumont Ozen*

Go For A Win! 2008 Silsbee High School band directors are, from left, Todd Patterson, Carol Patterson and John Roberts.

Red Cooper Constable Pct. 1

Says

Good Luck to the

Silsbee Tigers and all the 2580 Nerren Silsbee

Teams in Hardin County

“It’s choice not chance that determines your destiny.”

Jean Didetch

Billy Caraway Hardin County Judge

Livingston Lions Aug. 29 OPEN Sept. 5 @ Bellville Sept. 12 @ Conroe Caney Creek Sept. 19 Houston Washington Sept. 26 @ Lumberton* Oct. 3 Beaumont Ozen* Oct 10 @ Port Neches-Groves* Oct. 17 Little CypressMauriceville* Oct. 24 @ Nederland* Oct. 31 @ Beaumont Central* Nov. 7 Vidor* Nederland Bulldogs Aug. 29 West Orange-Stark Sept. 5 OPEN Sept. 12 @ Waller Sept. 19 Friendswood Sept. 26 @ Beaumont Ozen* (Alex Durley Stadium) Oct. 3 Port Neches-Groves* Oct. 10 @ Little CypressMauriceville* Oct. 17 @ Beaumont Central* Oct. 24 Livingston* Oct. 31 @ Vidor* Nov. 7 Lumberton* Port Neches-Groves Indians Aug. 29 @ Barbers Hill Sept. 5 @ Crosby Sept. 12 Texas City (alternate home site) Sept. 19 OPEN Sept. 26 Little CypressMauriceville* (alternate home site) Oct. 3 @ Nederland Oct. 10 Livingston* Oct. 17 @ Vidor* Oct. 24 Lumberton* Oct. 31 @ Beaumont Ozen* (Alex Durley Stadium) Nov. 7 Beaumont Central* Vidor Pirates Aug. 29 Beaumont Kelly Sept. 5 Houston St. Thomas Sept. 12 @ Hardin-Jefferson Sept. 19 OPEN Sept. 26 @ Beaumont Central* Oct. 3 Lumberton* Oct. 10 @ Beaumont Ozen* (Babe Zaharias Stadium) Oct. 17 Port Neches-Groves* Oct. 24 @ Little CypressMauriceville* Oct. 31 Nederland* Nov. 7 @ Livingston* 18-3A Jasper Bulldogs Aug. 28 Gilmer at Tyler’s Rose Stadium (Thur.)

Sept. 5 Kirbyville Sept. 12 OPEN Sept. 19 @ West Orange-Stark Sept. 26 Hamshire-Fannett Oct. 3 @ Silsbee Oct. 10 @ Diboll* Oct. 17 Huntington* Oct. 24 @ Carthage* Oct. 31 Rusk* Nov. 7 @ Center* 22-3A Cleveland Indians Aug. 29 Hardin-Jefferson Sept. 5 @ Bryan Rudder Sept. 12 Huntington Sept. 19 @ LC-Mauriceville Sept. 26 OPEN Oct. 3 Liberty* Oct. 10 @ Huffman* Oct. 17 Shepherd* Oct. 24 @ Tarkington* Oct. 31 Coldspring* Nov. 7 @ Splendora*

Shepherd Pirates Aug. 29 Magnolia West Sept. 5 vs Caldwell at Sam Houston State Sept. 12 @ Hardin Sept. 19 Woodville Sept. 26 Tarkington* Oct. 3 @ Coldspring* Oct. 10 Splendora* Oct. 17 @ Cleveland* Oct. 24 Liberty* Oct. 31 @ Huffman* Nov. 7 OPEN

Coldspring Trojans Aug. 29 Crockett Sept. 5 @ Madisonville Sept. 12 @ Corrigan-Camden Sept. 19 Diboll Sept. 26 @ Huffman* Oct. 3 Shepherd* Oct. 10 @ Tarkington* Oct. 17 OPEN Oct. 24 Splendora* Oct. 31 @ Cleveland* Nov. 7 Liberty* Huffman Falcons Aug. 29 @ Willis Sept. 5 Houston Kashmere Sept. 12 @ Santa Fe Sept. 19 @ Hamshire-Fannett Sept. 26 Coldspring* Oct. 3 @ Splendora* Oct. 10 Cleveland* Oct. 17 @ Liberty* Oct. 24 OPEN Oct. 31 Shepherd* Nov. 7 @ Tarkington*

Splendora Wildcats Aug. 29 Stafford Sept. 5 @ Needville Sept. 12 Houston Chavez Sept. 19 @ Beaumont Kelly Sept. 26 @ Liberty* Oct. 3 Huffman* Oct. 10 @ Shepherd* Oct. 17 Tarkington* Oct. 24 @ Coldspring* Oct. 31 OPEN Nov. 7 Cleveland*

Liberty Panthers Aug. 29 Bridge City Sept. 5 Hamshire-Fannett Sept. 12 Orangefield Sept. 19 @ Kirbyville Sept. 26 Splendora* Oct. 3 @ Cleveland* Oct. 10 OPEN Oct. 17 Huffman* Oct. 24 @ Shepherd* Oct. 31 Tarkington* Nov. 7 @ Coldspring*

Tarkington Longhorns Aug. 29 @ Huntington Sept. 5 Hardin Sept. 12 @ Buna Sept. 19 Orangefield Sept. 26 @ Shepherd* Oct 10 Coldspring* Oct. 17 @ Splendora* Oct. 24 Cleveland* Oct. 31 @ Liberty* Nov. 7 Huffman*

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Page 38, FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE

FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE, Page 7

Silsbee High School Junior Varsity Football

Kountze Freshman Lionettes: front from left: Jody Trail, Charvay Jones, Shalisha Scott, Cassandra Dominy and Chelsea Browning. Back from left: Coach Megan O’Quinn, Brittany Gallion, Jessica Colton, Betty Gore, Desiraie Tiedemann and Maegan Walters.

Flowers by

Kountze Varsity Lionettes: front from left: Allison Landis, Breanna Haynes, Melanie Knighten, Kayla Allen and Kelia Pope. Back from left: Coach Megan O’Quinn, Angelia Bloodsworth, Candace Morrison, Kaila Johnson, Katie Cooksey, Lauren Deaver and Ashleigh Kelley.

LESLIE HARALSON MARGARET SMEDLEY

2 3 7 10 11 14 15 17 18 21 22 23

Jaden Daigle Jarod Barkley Jerrion Rhone Ronald Barrett Jack Spurlock Erik Toups C. J. Rue Karrington Stanford Kadrick Barnes Travis Willis Cody Balla Brandon Rachal

25 28 30 40 44 50 52 54 55 59 60 62

Tommy Barrett David Qualls Todd McKee Chase Hamshire Stephen Tanton Daniel Smith Jonathon Mitchum Rhen Storms Rocky Biscamp Daniel Hartless Jimmy Horne Phillip Keel

63 64 65 68 70 73 74 77 80 88

Brian Webb Katri Jones Antonio Hill Ethan Sasser Trevor Johnson Tanner Walters Taylor Byrum Keldrick Robinson Daniel Callesto Chris Willis

Silsbee High School Freshman Football

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Kountze Junior Varsity Lionettes: front from left: Darci Page, Kindra Clever, Morgan Mayeaux and Brittney Breaux. Back from left: Coach Megan O’Quinn, Caitlin McEachern, April Mallett.

Miranda Kalina, Jessie Parker and Angelina Guillen.

Southeast Texas Football Schedules

Kountze Lions...

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22-2A Kirbyville Wildcats Aug. 29 Diboll Sept. 5 @ Jasper Sept. 12 West Orange-Stark Sept. 19 Liberty Sept. 26 @ Hardin-Jefferson Oct. 3 OPEN Oct. 10 Shelbyville* Oct. 17 Hemphill* Oct. 24 @ Woodville* Oct. 31 San Augustine* Nov. 7 @ Newton* Newton Eagles Aug. 29 Corrigan-Camden Sept. 5 @ East Chambers Sept. 12 @ Diboll Sept. 19 Silsbee Sept. 26 @ Orangefield Oct. 3 OPEN Oct. 10 @ Woodville* Oct. 17 San Augustine* Oct. 24 @ Hemphill* Oct. 31 @ Shelbyville* Nov. 7 Kirbyville*

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Page 8, FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE

FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE, Page 37

Sam & Linda Karr - Owners

301 N 3rd St. Silsbee

Silsbee Varsity Lady Tigers, front from left: Alexis Holmes, Tori Gardner and Shandral Shankle.

Middle from left: Brittany Burrell, Tanisha Harper, Caitlin Callicutt. Back from left: Coach Dana Thornton, Chastity Foster, Chelsea Neely, Beatrice Douglas, Kalynn Drake, Stacey Davis and Coach Kelly Drake.

Kountze High School Varsity Cheerleaders Members of the Aristocats dance team work out a routine during summer practice at Kountze High School.

THE SILSBEE TIGERS: VOLLEYBALL PREVIEW

2008 Lady Tigers as good a team as Silsbee has ever seen The 2008 edition of the Silsbee Lady Tigers will boast the return of seven seniors, five lettermen and three starters from a squad that finished their 2007 campaign 23-12 and 13-1 in district play, garnering them a share of the district title with Bridge City. The squad dropped a heart breaker in the area round of the playoffs to eventual state-bound Columbus.

“We are a much bigger team this season,” Thonton said. “That will bode well with our defense.

This team is going to be a lot of fun to watch, because our passing game is the best we’ve had in some while. We have a deep bench and all 11 ladies will contribute to our success.”

With 27 years of coaching

under her belt (21 of which have been at Silsbee) Thornton has coached hundreds of young ladies, and has a keen eye when it comes to evaluating talent and the utilization of it.

When asked about the outlook for the coming season Thornton pointed to some of her expected standout players. She has a quartet of seniors and a junior firsttime varsity palyer that she will look to for great things this season.

Senior Kalynn Drake will return after a season that saw her named “Outstanding Middle Blocker” in the district. With 179 kills, 380 digs and a team-leading 225 points, Drake looks to make the move to outside hitter

one of power and intensity.

Caitlin Callicut returns for her senior year as a first team all district setter for the Lady Tigers.

Her 731 assists kept the Tiger hitters supplied with ammunition, and Thornton looks for nothing less out of her senior leader this season.

We Have Kountze High School Band performs at marching contests in 2007.

See LADY TIGERS on Page 10

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Page 36, FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE

FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE, Page 9 “You Deserve the Best”

THE KOUNTZE LIONS: TEAM PREVIEW

Lions ready to break out as district champs Last year was just a preview of the things to come in 2008 for the Kountze Lions football team.

The Lions, who finished 7-3 last year, just missed the playoffs after a loss to Hardin and Buna in district.

This year, Kountze is on the warpath and nothing will stand in its way of winning that long-elusive district title and a coveted trip to the Class 2A state postseason.

Kountze has eight starters back on offense from a team that averaged 21 points a game in 2007.

The big man, Jared Howard will lead the backfield after posting 676 yards rushing on 125 carries with seven touchdowns. His older brother carried the load last year as a senior.

But just because the older Howard graduated doesn’t mean

Jared will be alone in the backfield this season.

In fact, the talent pool is deep in the backfield as shown by this past week’s scrimmage, which the Lions won 13-0.

The offensive line will be anchored by Jack Garrett, an alldistrict guard last year.

He will be assisted on the line

by Deric Puckett, Tanner Hughes, Cody Sunday and Justin Bates.

Zach Kemp could see some time in the backfield, but with his height and strength, he could step in at tight end or wide receiver.

Last year, the Lions only allowed 16 points per game and the defense will be even more stout this season.

Steven Gerhard and Devon Wise are back after all-district honors at linebacker in 2007, while Trey Walden becomes part

2008 Kountze Schedule Aug. 29 Woodville Sept. 5 at Bridge City Sept. 12 Evadale Sept. 19 at Hull-Daisetta Sept. 26 Warren* Oct. 3 at Buna* Oct. 10 Deweyville* Oct. 17 at Hardin* Oct. 24 Anahuac* Oct. 31 at East Chambers* Nov. 7 OPEN

Lady Tiger Junior Varsity Volleyball Silsbee Junior Varsity Lady Tigers: front from left: Abriena McGrue, Jessica Gore and Sharneka Hudson. Middle from left: Janeicia Myers, Shaniqua Oliphant and Nikkeia Patterson. Back from left: Audrey Gill, Katy Adams and Coach Kelly Drake.

* District 23-2A game

of the crew at outside linebacker.

Milton Williams is a big, tough kid with a penchant for running the ball and fans will see him tote his fair share this season.

But it is on defense where he

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Jared Howard will lead the Lions’ running game this season.

was a first team all-district player last season that he will make his biggest impact.

Williams will step in at linebacker.

The defensive line is finding its footing in 2008 with a few new

faces there, though end Josh Haynes will help solidify the group with his experience.

Aubrey Walker, a quick, intense senior will step in at defensive back to help the pass defense this year.

“Support Your Tigers!

Go to the games!”

Kountze High School Varsity Football Team

Good Luck Tigers Silsbee Freshman Lady Tigers: front from left: Kaitlin Keith, Lexie Thomas, Keira Ruben, Keauna Adams and Shaunessy Barnes. Back from left: Coach Lindsay Leach, Kolbie Kruft, Janci Burns, Katelyn Alexander, Jasmine McCain and Gretchen Stancil.

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Page 10, FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE

LADY TIGERS Stacy Davis will return for her final year in the maroon and white after a season that saw her rack up 75 kills and a second team all district nomination at middle blocker.

Senior Chastity Foster, a transfer student from Woodville, will take the hardwood as a middle blocker for the Tigers.

Middle blocker is a position that plays well to the strength of this all state triple jump threat.

Thornton told of Foster’s apologetic attitude recently when she hung her chin on the top of the net on her way down from a smash. Look out, this young lady can jump out of the gym!

Junior Beatrice Douglas is a new face on the varsity squad, but in Thornton’s estimation will add another strong middle blocker to an already tall order for any opponent.

Thornton’s remaining seniors all fill the roll of defensive specialist. Shandral Shankle,

From Page 8

Aleixs Holmes and Tanisha Harper plan to spend their final season in the maroon and white making it hard for opposing offenses to amass points against a solid back court. Harper will also be a utility player for the Lady Tigers as her outside hitting skills make her a double threat.

Juniors Tori Gardner and Brittany Burrell will be active from their libero and right outside hitter positions.

A lone sophomore will suit up for the varsity Lady Tigers this season, but don’t take her youth as weakness. Chelsea Neely has already made her presence felt in this young season, and in Thornton’s estimation will be an added striker with her tall slender frame.

As always, Silsbee will challenge for the district title, and expects to see the Tiger Den full of supporters as they make their run into the playoffs.

FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE, Page 35

THE KOUNTZE LIONETTES: VOLLEYBALL PREVIEW

2008 Lady Tigers Volleyball Schedule

Strong group of returners to key Kountze success

Aug. 29 vs. Kountze/Ozen Aug. 28-30 at Ozen Tourn.

Sept. 2 vs. West Brook Sept. 4-6 at Dickinson Tourn.

Sept. 9 at Jasper Sept. 12 vs. LCM Sept. 11-13 at LCM Tourn.

Sept. 16 at Liberty Sept. 19 at Kirbyville Sept. 18-20 at PNG Tourn.

Sept. 23 vs. Har-Jefferson* Sept. 30 vs. Bridge City* Oct. 3 vs. Hamshire-Fannett* Oct. 7 at Orangefield* Oct. 10 at WO-S* Oct. 14 at Hardin Jefferson* Oct. 17 at Bridge City* Oct. 21 at Hamshire-Fannett* Oct. 24 vs. Orangefield* Oct. 28 vs. WO-S* * District 21-3A game

Over in the Lion’s Den, Coach second year Megan O’Quinn has 11 ladies that are looking to do some roaring this year. With seven returning lettermen, four seniors and five starters from a squad that went 27-7 and a perfect 10-0 in district play, O’Quinn has reason to be excited.

“All of my hitters have an excellent chance for a kill,” O’Quinn commented. “With strong passers and defenders as well as some great setters, we look to be in every match we play.”

O’Quinn also has a group of seniors that she will be leaning

heavily on as the Lionettes attempt to take their playoff appearance a bit deeper than the area round this season.

Senior Kayla Allen will serve as one of Kountze’s outside bombers. She was named first team all district in 2007 and looks to make her final year one for the record books.

District MVP for 2007, Kaila Johnson will be sidelined for the first two to four weeks of her final campaign with an ankle injury, but O’Quinn looks for more explosives from her middle blocker position when she returns.

Senior Lauren Deaver will fill

another outside hitter position of the Lionettes, while claassmate Katie Cooksey, who spent most of 2007 out with injuries will return to her middle blocker duties.

“We are going to have to step up every match,” O’Quinn concluded. “Everyone in our district will be after us and will will have to live up to our tradition of great volleyball.”

With the Warren Lady Warriors joining the district mix, Kountze will be ßasked to do even more in defending their district title O’Quinn has a trio of junior

netters that are going to have to step up and fill the gaps vacated by last year’s seniors.

Angelia Bloodsworth will fill the dual role of right side hitter and defensive specialist, while classmate Melanie Knighten will don the libero jersey this season.

Bloodsworth tallied 121 service aces and 147 digs in the 2007 season, and hopes to expand those totals this year. Candace Morrison will spend most of her time in the air this season, striking from the outside hitter position and building walls as one of the Lionette’s middle blockers.

O’Quinn’s underclassmen contingency will be filled by three sophomores and one freshmen.

Breanna Haynes, Kelia Pope and Allison Landis will spend their time in the back court serving as defensive specialists and setters. Ninth grader Ashleigh Kelley will come off the bench at the setter position.

The future remains as bright as ever for the Kountze Lionettes and hopes are high that the community will come out to the brand new high school gym and enjoy more exciting volleyball this season!

Silsbee High School senior Kalynn Drake was named MVP of the Vidor Tournament earlier this season.

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The Silsbee High School Band tubas section included, from left, Michael Hall, Bobbi Alvarado, Cody Parker and Gretchen Jacks.

THE SILSBEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PROUD OF OUR STUDENTS, ATHLETES, AND OUR SCHOOL DISTRICT

GO TIGERS!

You’re an important part of our success!

Kountze High School senior Lauren Deaver will be critical to the Lionettes’ success in 2008.

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Page 34, FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE

FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE, Page 11

We Support The Lions

Have a GREAT year!

Kountze High School Junior Varsity

Lauri Thompson

The Silsbee High School Tiger Keepers include, from left, Brittany Whittle, Brittany Crysel and Hasien Zane.

237 S. Pine Street • Kountze, Tx

The Kountze Lions running game, already proven potent by last year’s success from the backfield, will be even better, catching up to the already dominating Kountze defense that at time secured victory for the Lions this past season. The Lions will be going to the air in an added attack option this season.

Light up the scoreboard this football season!

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Dickey, who came from Class 4A New Caney. Dickey had 485 yards passing and three touchdowns as well as 270 yards rushing at New Caney last season.

Wide receiver Hunter Davis is back for Hardin after pulling down 43 catches for 810 yards and 11 touchdowns as a sophomore.

From Page 33 On defense, five starters return, including free safety Mitch Vellamez back after collecting 106 tackles and six interceptions last year.

The Deweyville Pirates looked like they had the world on a plate with a 4-0 record heading into district play. Then the earth fell out from under them as they

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went 0-6 through league play.

Seven offensive starters come back for redemption with fullback Keeton Addison back after collecting 1,254 yards and 12 touchdowns last year. The Pirates offensive line returns four all-district starters in Dalton Estes, Channing O’Banion, Hunter Manning and Trent Bickham.

Defensive back Joe Dooley leads a list of seven returning starters on defense.

The Buna Cougars roughed up more than a few opponents right after they dropped from Class 3A to 2A, but it looks like the Coogs will struggle in 2008.

Since that drop, the Cougars have advanced to the playoffs two years running. It will be tough to repeat though with just seven starters back from last year.

On offense, quarterback Ryan Shepherd returns after collecting 389 yards and six touchdowns last year. Running back Blanton Craft had 715 yards and 11 touchdowns rushing a year ago.

Defensively, Buna has five starters back, including Craft at defensive back where he had seven interceptions. Linebacker Dylan Hussey had 60 tackles last season.

The Silsbee High School saxophones section includeds, back from left, Jacob Rodriguez and Jordan Adams; and front from left, Colton Yount and Kenneth King.

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Page 12, FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE

FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE, Page 33

THE SILSBEE TIGERS: DISTRICT PREVIEW

THE KOUNTZE LIONS: DISTRICT PREVIEW

No surprise: West Orange-Stark picked to win Here’s a surprise.

West Orange-Stark is picked to win District 21-3A. The Mustangs rolled through district without a scratch and lost just one regular-season game en route to a trip into the postseason

that went three games deep.

WO-S has six starters back on offense, including quarterback Ortabious Hypolite who had 1,070 yards passing and 595 yards rushing. At tailback, Quintavious Garrett had 638

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My how the tide does turn.

Just a few short years ago, Buna, East Chambers and Hardin dominated the 2A local district with huge wins and deep runs into the playoffs.

Now former cellar-dwellers will get their chance to shine.

The Kountze Lions had to beat the Hardin Hornets to reach the playoffs a year ago, but couldn’t come away with the win, leaving them one game short of the postseason. It was a place where Kountze has not been in quite some time.

This year, after going 7-3 a year ago, the Lions will be back and this time they will take the district title.

Eight starters return on each side of the line with the offense

District 21-3A Predictions 1. West Orange-Stark 2. Silsbee 3. Hamshire-Fannett 4. Orangefield 5. Bridge City 6. Hardin-Jefferson yards on 72 carries in 2007.

Five starters return on defense for the Mustangs with linebackers Josh Lynch and Robert Jiles at the head of the pack. Although the Mustangs have yet to lose a district game since their drop from Class 4A to Class 3A, this year could spell the end to that distinguished feat.

The Tigers and Mustangs will play in the first district game of the season for both teams. If Silsbee can take advantage of WO-S having come off a string of tough non-district games, the Tigers might escape with a district title early on.

Silsbee had a tough run in 2007, missing the playoffs for the first time since dropping to Class 3A. Ten returning starters this year will help the Tigers contend for the title in 2008.

On offense, four returning starters are back, including the district’s Newcomer of the Year,

Lions, Panthers prepare for championship battle District 23-2A Predictions 1. Kountze 2. Anahuac 3. East Chambers 4. Hardin 5. Deweyville 6. Buna

led by tailback Jared Howard.

The big freshman last year had 676 yards on 125 carries with seven touchdowns, running behind his even-bigger brother in the backfield. This year, Jared gets his chance to shine on his own.

He’ll be joined by all-district

first-teamer Jack Garrett at guard while the line is shored up by Deric Puckett, Tanner Hughes, Cody Sunday and Justin Bates.

Though the Lions averaged just 21 points a game a year ago, it was enough thanks to a stingy defense that allowed only 16 points per game. Steven Gerhard and Devon Wise are back with linebackers Trey Walden and Milton Williams adding impact.

Anahuac struggled to a 2-8 season a year ago with its offense averaging only 17 points per game, while its defense surrendered 28 points a game to their opponents.

Seven offensive starters are back, including the aerial attack of quarterback Cody Johnson and wide receiver Braxton Mayes.

Running back Robert Boykins will lead the rushing attack from the backfield.

On defense, the Panthers line up nine returning starters, including a tough linebacker corps that includes Deior McNeil, Blake Sanders and Ashton Guillory.

East Chambers isn’t used to anything but winning, having advanced to the playoffs for the past 13 straight years. They’ll go back again in 2008 with seven offensive returners back from last year.

Running back Dante Raymond had 1,220 yards and 12 touchdowns last year and the offensive line will be strong with all-district lineman Tanner Mazzola

leading the way.

On defense, the Bucs have four starters back, including linebacker Alfredo Valezquez, who had 99 tackles a year ago. Also back is all-district safety Josh Adamson.

The Hardin Hornets, who played spoiler to Kountze’s run for the playoffs a year ago, might not even scratch the postseason in 2008 unless they have some luck on their side.

Last year they finished 8-2 and advanced to area. This year, the Hornets will look to repeat that success with four offensive returning starters. Among those is move-in quarterback Jeremy See 23-2A on Page 34

The Silsbee Tigers did the best they could to stop the West Orange-Stark Mustangs in 2007, but like everyone else in district, they came up short.

Jeremy Johnson. He had a big season with 1,675 yards and 17 touchdowns on 95 completions, also rushing for 621 yards and nine touchdowns. He’ll be a threat again in 2008.

Chris Castle is back at running

back for the Tigers after collecting 587 yards and seven touchdowns on 81 carries, also catching 30 passes for 413 yards and two TDs last year.

On defense, the Tigers return six from last year, including first team all-district end Josh Skinner, who had 70 tackles and four sacks. Shane White at the other end position, and tackle Patrick Steed will make a big impact in 2008 as well.

Hamshire-Fannett came away with a big win over Silsbee this past season that helped put them in contention for a playoff spot early in the district season. The Longhorns return 13 starters, including six on offense. Among those is all-district tailback Hagan Daigle who had 750 yards and nine touchdowns on 104 carries.

Seven defensive returners are led by linebacker Dustin East, who had 77 tackles in 2007.

The Orangefield Bobcats played a two-part season last year. They started out the year 06. But as the season progressed, they improved and in the second half, the Bobcats were 3-1.

Perhaps this is an indication of things to come as they enter the 2008 campaign with five offensive and eight defensive returning starters.

On offense Jace Statum will move from wide receiver to quarterback with senior Zach Peevey helping out at tailback. Last year Peevey had 456 yards and four touchdowns.

On defense, the ‘Cats welcome eight starters back from last season. Among those is junior linebacker Jacob Felts who had 107 tackles as a sophomore.

Defensive end Luke Gunstream is also back from an all-district See 21-3A on Page 13

Last season, East Chambers was the team to beat. This year, the Buccaneers will have to fight to find a spot in the playoffs as Kountze and Anahuac battle for the top two spots in the district.

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FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE, Page 13

21-3A

From Page 12

performance in 2007.

The Bridge City Cardinals have but one direction to go in 2008 ... up.

The Cards finished 0-10 and were roughed up seriously in eight of 10 games as they averaged just 15 points per game during the season.

Eight offensive returners are led by quarterback Dustin Breaux who had 1,250 yards and nine touchdowns a year ago.

Running back Joe Robertson is back after putting up 828 yards and five touchdowns last

season.

On defense, the Cardinals return eight from a squad that allowed an AVERAGE of 54 points per game.

In spite of returning 21 of 22 starters from last year, the Hardin-Jefferson Hawks will still struggle in 2008. Trey Burrell had 507 yards rushing with three touchdowns in a season limited by an injury.

Every starter is back on defense with linebacker John Boles leading the way after recording 102 tackles.

Country Crossroads

Silsbee High School Junior Varsity Cheerleaders include Kaedra Bonner, Chelsea Morgan, Charity Pond, Adnenne Grant and Lizzie Burrell, Ally Tanton, Taquaela Thomas and Brittany Huebner.

District 21-3A Football Schedules

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Bridge City Cardinals Aug. 29 @ Liberty Sept. 5 Kountze Sept. 12 Little CypressMauriceville Sept. 19 Buna Sept. 26 @ Beaumont Kelly Oct. 3 OPEN Oct. 10 @ Hardin-Jefferson* Oct. 17 Silsbee* Oct. 24 @ West Orange-Stark* Oct. 31 @ Orangefield* Nov. 7 Hamshire-Fannett* Hamshire-Fannett Longhorns Aug. 29 Lumberton Sept. 5 @ Liberty Sept. 12 @ East Chambers Sept. 19 Huffman Sept. 26 @ Jasper Oct. 3 OPEN Oct. 10 Orangefield* Oct. 17 West Orange-Stark* Oct. 24 @ Hardin-Jefferson* Oct. 31 Silsbee* Nov. 7 @ Bridge City*

Hardin-Jefferson Hawks Aug. 29 @ Cleveland Sept. 5 @ Woodville Sept. 12 Vidor Sept. 19 East Chambers Sept. 26 Kirbyville Oct. 3 OPEN Oct. 10 Bridge City* Oct. 17 @ Orangefield* Oct. 24 Hamshire-Fannett* Oct. 31 West Orange-Stark* Nov. 7 @ Silsbee* Orangefield Bobcats Aug. 29 East Chambers Sept. 5 Buna Sept. 12 @ Liberty Sept. 19 @ Tarkington Sept. 26 Newton Oct. 3 OPEN Oct. 10 @ Hamshire-Fannett* Oct. 17 Hardin-Jefferson* Oct. 24 @ Silsbee* Oct. 31 Bridge City* Nov. 7 @ West Orange-Stark* Silsbee Tigers Aug. 29 @ Houston Davis Sept. 5 Diboll

Sept. 12 Lumberton Sept. 19 @ Newton Sept. 26 OPEN Oct. 3 Jasper Oct. 10 @ West Orange-Stark* Oct. 17 @ Bridge City* Oct. 24 Orangefield* Oct. 31 @ Hamshire-Fannett* Nov. 7 Hardin-Jefferson* West Orange-Stark Mustangs Aug. 29 @ Nederland Sept. 5 LC-Mauriceville Sept. 12 @ Kirbyville Sept. 19 Jasper Sept. 26 OPEN Oct. 3 Brookshire Royal Oct. 10 Silsbee* Oct. 17 @ Hamshire-Fannett* Oct. 24 Bridge City* Oct. 31 @ Hardin-Jefferson* Nov. 7 Orangefield*

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THE SILSBEE TIGERS: CROSS COUNTRY

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FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE, Page 31

The departure of a truly gifted runner among the boys and the return of an extremely talented girl runner highlights the start of the 2008 Silsbee High School cross country season.

Pablo Lepsch, who advanced to the regional meet this past season for the Tigers, has decided to pursue other interests.

That leaves the boys team looking for a new star, according to Coach Bob Killam.

“Pablo is a remarkable runner.

He’s one of the most accomplished cross country runners in the history of Silsbee High School.”

The Tigers followed Lepsch into the regional tournament, but aren’t left completely empty as they enter the new season.

Lettermen Matthew Deaver and Ian Littlepage are both seniors, while junior Marshall Van Winkle rounds out the experienced runners back for this season.

Deaver is an all-around athlete who is a place-kicker for the football team, a talented soccer player and a state-caliber tennis player.

Coach Killam is also looking for a strong performance from senior J.D. Bateman as well as sophomore Samuel Cowlishaw.

“Bridge City will be our biggest competition,” Killam said. “They are good every year.

Hardin-Jefferson will be right behind them. Jasper was good last year, but they are in a different district this year.”

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RUNNERS Three-sport star Mary Moody is looking for a fourth trip to the regional cross country meet this fall. Aside from cross country, she also participates in basketball in the winter and track in the spring.

The boys finished fourth in district last year. In district, the top three finishing teams and the top 10 individual performers advance to the regional meet. At regionals, the top two teams and top 10 individuals advance to state.

For the girls, Mary Moody is back for her third season as a topnotch performer. For the past two year, she has reached the regionals as an individual performer and led the Tigers team that reached the regional tournament in 2006.

“There’s not a harder working kid than Mary Moody,” said

“These three guys have already started running together,”Johnson aid. “They are comparable in style, and ran a 45 minute course the other day, matching each other step for step. They will push each other to be better.”

From Page 30 The rest of the boys team is made up of two juniors, Jared Gregory and Jeff Natherly and two newcomers, Quincy Honeycutt and Grant Jones.

Johnson admitted that on the girls; side of the coin, there is difficulty competing with the other

Killam. “Cross country is a marathon of emotions. You have to have a lot of fortitude and a lot of patience to succeed in this sport. Mary shows plenty of that.”

Two-year letterman Raynisha Washington, a junior, is back this season, as is Jessica Louviere, a sophomore who lettered last year as a freshman.

New to the high school, though not new to cross country running, are the Duvail twins, Amanda and Brittany. They saw success at the middle school level of competition and look to make an impact in high school this season.

We’ve Got Spirit, Yes We Do!

fall sports for the athletes needed for cross country.

Junior Crystal Brindle a former sprinter on the LHS track team, will anchor a squad that has only four other runners at the present.

Juniors Ashley Norton and Kaitlin Warren will try their hand at the sport, while sophomores Somer Meyers and Claudi Blignaup (Stefan’s sister) will take to the course for the Raiders.

“We have quite a bit of youth and inexperience on our teams,” Johnson concluded. “Cross country runners are a different breed of athlete. I believe that it is one of the most physically demanding sports in our schools. We hope to get some excitement built in Lumberton when they see cross country succeeding like some of the other sports have started to experience.”

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FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE Page 15

THE LUMBERTON RAIDERS: CROSS COUNTRY PREVIEW

Banner year underway for cross country team “Over the river and through the woods....” Not only is that the first line of a holiday tune, but in matters of cross country running, it is a mantra that is all too familiar. The three mile jaunts that lead over sod, pavement, water holes and other all-terrain surfaces, can be as private a moment as an athlete could ever ask for.

At Lumberton High School (LHS), coach A,J Johnson and his cross country teams are gearing up for what is shaping up to be a banner year for Raider runners.

Johnson, a second year coach, who spent his undergrad days at the University of Arkansas has much to be excited about as his boys and girls teams are starting to take shape.

“One of the problems we had last year,” Johnson explained, “was the fact that there were a few meets that we were in the thick of things, but because we didn’t have the required five competitors in the races, we ere not allowed to compete for the team win.”

Johnson hopes that with his returning runners and the crop of newcomers (both to LHS and to the state of Texas) that the fastest growing community in Hardin County will also become the fastest growing cross country squads in the area.

On the boys side of the LHS squad, Johnson is excited to have senior runner Hunter Bradshaw continuing his devotion to the long winded sport.

“Hunter has run every year, almost year round,” Johnson said “He participates in two or three events over the summer and runs an hour or two everyday. I don’t have to worry about Hunter putting in the work that it takes to be successful in this sport.”

From running an 18 minute three mile course at the Sea Rim Striders event to running halfmarathons in Houston, Bradshaw is running enthusiast that looks to challenge some of the big boys in his 4-A district for a trip to the regional and state meets. He advanced to the regional meet at North Harris Community

push him to be an even better Raider strider.

Senior Stefan Blignaup comes to LHS via Indiana by way of

Raiders!

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South Africa, while Tennessee freshman Alec Murphy will bring a fresh step to the course.

See RUNNERS on Page 31

The Silsbee High School Band Clarinets section includes, front from left, Monet Randolph, Keaneu Settler, L’De’Je’ Banks, Jacie Redden and Dulon Durham; and back from left, Kelsi Josey, Terance Cartwright, Kaylee Brewer, Mary Allison Boothman, Kaitlyn Huggins and Holly Sikes.

Lumberton High School Varsity Cheerleaders

20-4A

Let’s Go

Law Firm

College in 2007.

Bradshawr will be joined by a couple of transfer students this season, that Johnson says will

offense, quarterback Dustin Harris returns with help in the backfield from running back Keaton Parker. He had 407 yards and three touchdowns rushing and 235 yards and four TDs receiving.

On defense, Josh Henderson picked three interceptions at the cornerback position.

The Battle of Beaumont could come down to simple pride with Central and Ozen lagging behind in the race for a playoff spot in 20-4A. Central had made the playoffs

From Page 29 four of the past five years before missing out last season. This year they bring back six offensive and six defensive starters.

Charlie Thomas ran for 550 yards and five touchdowns and Victor Spikes had 350 yards receiving last year. This season, Spikes will see time at quarterback.

On defense, Thomas played in the secondary and came away with 60 tackles. Justin Labove had 85 tackles and one interception for the Jaguars.

For the Panthers, improvement is taking time after going 1-9 two years ago, then 4-6 this past season.

To take the next step, they will rely on nine offensive returning starters this season. You can count on a flashy passing game if they can find a quality quarterback since two solid wide receivers return in Willie Jefferson and Anthony Lee. On defense, six starters are back led by linebacker Justin Isadore, who had 112 tackles a year ago.

Vidor finished the year 4-6 this past season, so they are only a game or two from finding the playoffs for the first time since 2000. The Pirates have seven starters back on each side of the ball, including quarterback Chris Teinert and fullback Theron Rynolds. Teinert is the top tackler back from last year when he collected 143 stops for the Pirates.

Jerrod Williamson had five picks at the cornerback position.

The Little CypressMauriceville Bears just couldn’t find their footing in 2007, struggling to a 1-9 season finish, their only win coming against Houston Kashmere in Week 3.

The struggle will continue with a part-time running back, Chad Humphrey, the only returning skill talent the Bears can claim in 2008. He is one of six returning starters on offense.

The Bears return just two defensive starters in linebacker Howard Griffith, who had 55 tackles, and Michael Green at the defensive back position.

The Silsbee High School Band Trombones section includes, front from left, Caleb Taylor, Chelsea Nelson, Ashley Lacey and Aaron Ward; and back from left, B.J. Oster, Scott Lacy, Josh Watson and Xavier Robertson.

2008 Silsbee High School Cross Country Schedule Sept. 13 at Weatherspoon Meet, Jasper Sept. 27 at Kountze Invitational Oct. 2 at Livingston Invitational Oct. 11 at Lufkin Coca Cola Meet Oct. 25 at Middle School District Meet, Claiborne Park, Vidor Oct. 29 at High School District Meet, Claiborne Park, Vidor Nov. 8 at Regional Meet, North Harris College Nov. 15 at State Meet, Round Rock

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Page 16, FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE

FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE, Page 29

THE LUMBERTON RAIDERS: DISTRICT PREVIEW

Raiders, Bulldogs battle for 20-4A supremacy When it came down to the end of the 2007 season, the third and final playoff spot in the district hinged on a single game between Nederland and Lumberton.

This year, the same scenario will likely play out, but this time for the District 20-4A title.

The Raiders came away with a 33-7 victory over the Bulldogs in clinching that final playoff berth, ending a string of playoff appearances by the Bulldogs that ran 11 years long.

This season, though, Nederland appears to be ready to take the top spot thanks to a dozen returning starting players from a year ago. Six of those come from an offensive team that averaged 24 points a game.

Leading the attack is junior quarterback Kirby Bellow who completed 93 passes for 1,640 yards and 21 touchdowns. Wide receiver Asa Cardenas was his favorite target, hauling in 14 touchdown passes and making the all-state

The Silsbee High School Band base clarinet section includes, from left, Crystal Wheeler and Melissa Crane.

Tiger Pride

Gary Butler • 1972 SHS Grad

The

District 20-4A Predictions 1. Nederland 2. Lumberton 3. Port Neches-Groves 4. Livingston 5. Central 6. Ozen 7. Vidor 8. LC-Mauriceville team last year.

On defense, all-district defensive end Wareall Grogan is back with three-year starter senior linbacker Jordan Landry leading the fight to stop opposing offenses.

Lumberton might have lost its big back, Cody Hussey, from a year ago, but there is still plenty of ammunition to fire as the Raiders set out to prove that last year was no fluke.

The Raiders reeled off six

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SIlsbee High School Varsity Cheerleaders include mascot Aaron Chambless; middle row from left, Brooklin Pustka, Kayal Burrous, Kristine Kelley, Shea Hart and Jade Freedman; and back from left, Brittanie Armstrong, Hillaire Soignet, Kara Szemborski, Dyanna Stricklan and Jordan Dehart.

The Port Neches-Groves Indians won the district last year, but a season later they will be fighting to simply find a place among the top three for another trip to the Class 4A state football playoffs.

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straight wins before losing to Port Neches-Groves in district play. That one loss, giving the Indians a tie-breaker that put Lumberton in jeopardy of not making the playoffs at all, did little to stop the Raiders’ historymaking run to the playoffs.

Rolling through the rest of district undefeated, the Raiders advanced to the third round before losing to Waller. Along the way, they upset defending state champion La Marque 2421.

All of that experience and the momentum built by the Raiders means that a handful of starters back from last year will be joined by a group of enthusiastic up-and-comers in 2008.

Two offensive starters return this season. Tailback Jacob Hanna had 312 yards and six touchdowns running behind Hussey. The offensive line should be strong with tackle Hunter Howden and center Kyle Gillam back in place this year.

Defensively, the Raiders allowed just 14 points a game last year. Four starters return, including Hanna, who had 49 tackles (20 for a loss) and six sacks in 2007 at defensive end.

Kendall Duvall had 31 tackles, nine for a loss, at the other end position. Middle linebacker Anthony Beard had 109 tackles this past season.

As usual, the MidCounty powerhouse Port NechesGroves is back looking for another shot at the district title, bring with it seven starters back from last year’s area-round finalist.

Six of those seven starters come on the offensive side of the ball. Top starter back is quarterback Harrison Tatum, who threw for 1,073 yards and seven touchdowns. Tailback Josh

Wright had 870 yards and six TDs last season.

The lone returning starter on defense is Jerin Spikes, who plays the line.

Some see Livingston as much better than a middle-of-the-pack contender for the district title in 2007. The Lions shocked its

opponents with a trip to the third round of the playoffs before Dayton finally came along and put an end to the Livingston dream. Now a part of this district, the Lions are contenders with five offensive and five defensive starters back from 2007. On See 20-4A on Page 30

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Page 28, FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE

FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE Page 17

The Silsbee High School Band trumpets includes, front from left, Heather Dammann, Joshua Bendy, Kolton Herrin and Nicole Dufner; and back from left, Auston Barnes, James Trabing, Ashley Bush, Johnathon Shelton and Ryan Sanchez.

“I Wish All the Teams of My District the Very Best This Season. I hope to team up with every one of you to make Texas and especially Southeast Texas a better place to live and work. Thank You for Your VOTE” Mike Hamilton

The Silsbee High School Band baritone section includes Timothy Whitt and Ryan Moulder.

Pat McGallion Hardin County Precint 2 Commissioner

The Silsbee High School Band percussion section includes, from left, Daniel Willard, Christian Thompson, Ray Hawk, Bubba Jones, Mason Franco, Jash Carraway and Ashley Richter.

The Silsbee High School Band French horns include Andreya Stephenson and Caitlin Stuckey.

Good Luck

Page 18, FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE

FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE, Page 27

THE SILSBEE TIGERS: TIGERETTES

Tigerettes celebrating 50th anniversary in 2008 When Cynthia Chandler and her daughter Jenny decided to take over responsibility for the Tigerettes, they had no idea the significance of the 2008-2009 school year had in store.

As they prepared for the new

season with a young group of dancers, they discovered that this is the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the Tigerettes.

Now, that takes some serious consideration.

“We knew this had to be a spe-

cial year for the team,” said Jenny. “We have some special things planned for the year. We want this to be something memorable, something that the girls can take with them and something that past Tigerettes can be

proud of too.”

Cynthia and Jenny work comfortably together as mother and daughter, with one starting a sentence and the other finishing the thought as though they were of one mind.

And with the Tigerettes, they are of one opinion ... this will be an impressive year for the Silsbee High School dance team.

“We told them the first day that we expected them to be ladies, to respect us and one another,” said Cynthia. “Without that respect, you don’t have anything.”

With two new sponsors, the TIgerettes are embracing the idea of a fresh start. With just one junior and the rest underclassmen performing this year, a new start is simply a matter of fact.

“They are there to be molded into the idea of what a Tigerette should be, of what we want to represent for the school,” said Jenny. “And they have responded really well. They are excited and eager to learn. They’re like sponges, soaking everything up.”

Jenny has 15 years of dance

education through her younger years and Cynthia helps additionally with creativity after spending the past 28 years as a theater instructor.

“During football season, we’ll be concentrating on a more precision style show, kind of like the Rockettes,” said Cynthia.

“For our spring show, we’ll work more on a studio dance style.”

The spring show is set for the weekend of April 24-25 with a children’s workshop on April 18.

Officers for this year’s team include Capt. Maggie Stapleton, 1st Lt. Lauren Biscamp and Lt. Kaitlyn Hollis; and social officers President Marissa Burrell, Vice President Amanda Potts, and Secretary Jennifer Paulus.

Line members include Jessica Adams, Heather Isbell, Sarah Fisher, Kerri Josey, Brittany Lyles, Rachel Victor and Ashley Wheeler. Manager is Kelsey Watson.

Former Tigerettes are asked to email cchandler@silsbeeisd.org to provide contact information for an honorary celebration during the spring show.

The Silsbee High School Band Drum Majors are, back, Lindsay Yoder and Lauren Brock.

Back Row:Mary Coleman, Joan Holt, Wiley Fae Smith Front Row:Nadine Foster, Mary Fenner, George Read

Lumberton High School Band 2008

Lumberton Junior Varsity Volleyball Lumberton Junior Varsity Lady Raiders: front from left: Kacy Combest, Meagan Minton, Randi Owens and Ashley Braddock. Back from left: Coach Danielle Mitchell, Baylee Hart, Jenna Worth, Sarah Comstock, Lauren Daigle and Danielle Stewart.

Lumberton High School Mascots for 2008 are Sumer Meyers and Wade Hendrix.

Page 26, FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE

FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE Page 19

Silsbee HS Tigerettes 2008

THE LUMBERTON RAIDERS: VOLLEYBALL PREVIEW

Silsbee HIgh School Cheerleader managers are, from left, Adrian Hugon, Sydnee Leblanc and Cathryn Dodd.

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Lumberton Varsity Lady Raiders: front from left: Caitlyn Cunningham, Brooke Crowell, Molly James, Kat Renzo and Stacy Ayers. Back from left: Courtney Howell, Victoria Jones, Rachel Kemp, Alyssa Valestro, Alicia Allen and Coach Carissa Barrows. Not pictured: Kindell Johnston and Katie Letourneau.

Raiders ready for playoffs Coming off what some Lumbertonians would consider a lackluster performance in 2007, Coach Carissa Barrows and her Lady Raider volleyball team are looking to right the ship and crack into the playoff race this fall.

“We had a tough run of it last year,” Barrows said of the Lady Raiders 22-14 season record (6-8 in district). “This team knows how to win in the close games, because we were in second place going into our final four matches last season and lost all four in heart breaking fashion.”

With four returning lettermen and three returning seniors starters, the Lady Raiders look to crack into the new four team playoff format at the 4A level.

“The nucleus of our team will be the three starters that are returning, Barrows said of Alicia Allen (outside hitter), Alyssa Valastro (middle block-

er) and Courtney Howell (setter). “These young ladies know what it is going to take to lead us to the playoffs, and I am going to be leaning on their experience in a big way.”

Another player that will be contributing the Raider cause is junior Molly James. At present the utility player is recuperating from a broken collar bone, but is expected to be released for play in the next week or so.

Barrows, five year head coach of the Lady Raiders, has three senior ladies that will be manning the defensive specialist positions. Kat Renzo, Caitlyn Cunningham and Stacey Ayers.

The junior class will have a trio hitting the floor for the Columbia blue and red this season. Brooke Crowell (utility), Katie Letourneau (right side hitter) and Victoria Jones (outside hitter) look to bring a fast paced style of play.

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Silsbee HIgh School Band: Flag Corps is, front from left, Amber Landers and Kayla Lewis; middle, Lorin Rae Carrell and Jodi Kelley; and back, Victoria Fleetwood, Barbara Odom, Mindi Netherland, and Shay Ratcliff.

FAX: 755.7556 MON-FRI 8:30am - 5:30pm

Officers for this year’s team include Capt. Maggie Stapleton, 1st Lt. Lauren Biscamp and Lt. Kaitlyn Hollis; and social officers President Marissa Burrell, Vice President Amanda Potts, and Secretary Jennifer Paulus. Line members include Jessica Adams, Heather Isbell, Sarah Fisher, Kerri Josey, Brittany Lyles, Rachel Victor and Ashley Wheeler. Manager is Kelsey Watson.

2008 Lady Raiders Volleyball Schedule Aug. 28-30 at HamshireFannett Tourn.

Aug. 29 at Splendora Sept. 2 vs. Livingston Sept. 4-6 at YMBL Tourn.

Sept. 5 at Crosby Sept. 9 at Vidor* Sept. 11-13 at LCM Tourn.

Sept. 16 vs. Central* Sept. 19 vs. Ozen* Sept. 23 at PNG* Sept. 26 vs. LCM* Sept. 30 at Nederland* Oct. 3 at Livingston* Oct. 7 vs. Vidor* Oct. 10 at Central* Oct. 14 at Ozen* Oct. 17 vs. PNG* Oct. 21 at LCM* Oct. 24 vs. Nederland*

Silsbee HIgh School Football Tunnel Team is, front from left, Amy Morgan, Holly Phillips and Brad Bebee; and back from left, Andy Eberhard, Hilary Hayes and Pablo Lepsch.

* District 20-4A game

Rounding out the squad will be a pair of first year freshmen.

Rachel Kemp and Kindell Johnston look to make a splash in the big pond at their middle blocker and outside hitter positions.

“One thing that excites me about this team is that we were in a position to win every match we were in last year,” Barrows said. “With the tough losses that we experienced, these ladies know that the little things that we stress to do correctly every play, will eventually pay off when the game is on the line.” Barrows said that every night, any team in their district can beat any other team. The Lumberton Lady Raider plan to claim their share of the victories this season.

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MOORMAN & ASSOCIATES 222 E. Durdin 385-6039 Silsbee Find sports online at silsbeebee.com

Page 20, FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE

FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE, Page 25

Lumberton High School Junior varsity Football

J & W Complete Flooring Co.

The Silsbee High School Band flutes section includes, front from left, Katlyn Williams, Heather Isbell, Maggie Stapleton, Jessica Adams and Rhiannon Unger; and back from left, Sedonia LeBlanc, Courtnee McCollum, PJ Baldwin, Elizabeth Grimm and Jennifer Paulus.

THE SILSBEE BEE FOOTBALL CONTEST

Key to contest win is in number picks The Silsbee Bee will again hold its football contest this season. The winner will receive a $20.00 prize. They will get their picture in the paper and have bragging rights for at least six days.

The contest is very simple and yet it is very challenging. It brings into question ones knowledge of football and places in question whether loyalty is more important than victory.

Each week the paper will post 15 games in the paper.

Contestants must choose a winner in each of the 15 games.

The contestant must then assign a point value to each game using numbers between 1 and 15

Open at 6am

as the point value. They can only use each number once.

The key element in the contest is to assign the 15 value to the game they feel most confident about and the one value to the game they have the most questions about.

When the scores are tabulated the points for he games the contestant gets right are tabulated and the points for the games missed are subtracted.

The idea is to get the high number games right and if you miss to make sure you do it on the low number games.

Every effort will be made to pick the games form high school games being played in this area.

Southeast Texas Football Schedules

“Guaranteed To be The Best” 810 N . 5TH STREET • SILSBEE

MONDAY-FRIDAY 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM • SATURDAY 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Hardin Hornets Aug. 29 @ Hull-Daisetta Sept. 5 @ Tarkington Sept. 12 Shepherd Sept. 19 @ Trinity Sept. 26 OPEN Oct. 3 Anahuac* Oct. 10 @ East Chambers* Oct. 17 Kountze* Oct. 24 @ Warren* Oct. 31 Buna* Nov. 7 @ Deweyville* Warren Warriors Aug. 29 @ West Hardin Sept. 5 @ Trinity Sept. 12 Woodville Sept. 19 Groveton Sept. 26 @ Kountze* Oct. 3 OPEN Oct. 10 Buna* Oct. 17 @ Deweyville* Oct. 24 Hardin* Oct. 31 @ Anahuac* Nov. 7 East Chambers*

• Carpet • Vinyl • Ceramic • Tile • Wood

GO TEAM!!

ALL THE WAY HARDIN CO.!

Lumberton High School Freshman Football

RAIDERS Duvall, according to Credeur, has played quarterback all the way up through the Lumberton football system and had played defensive back until this past season.

“With the defensive scheme we played last year, he fit perfectly at the defensive end position,” said Credeur. “If (Hughes) can handle it, he’ll play some quarterback.”

Credeur said the main reason he would play a sophomore at QB is to maintain the defensive prowess that Duvall offers on the defensive side of the ball.

“We’re limited in the number of guys we have back on defense, so if we move Kendall to QB, then we’re stealing from our defense. If we can keep from doing that, it helps us out.”

The Raiders lost their key tight end when Cody Evans graduated last year, which means the search is on for a replacement. Ty Choate and Caleb Schexneider will vie for the job.

Ryan Asher, a sophomore, and

From Page 24 senior Crew Marlow will work at fullback, making the way for Hanna and Beard at tailback.

Trace Freeman played some at wide receiver last year and will return at that position in 2008. He will be joined by Taylor Granado, who struggled with a staph infection inside a bone but is back for this season, along with Tyler Wilson and Kyler Keith.

On defense, the Raiders lost their entire linebackers crew and all of its secondary group, leaving coaches searching for new stars beyond the defensive line.

Hanna will play defensive end and Murrill and Kyle Gillam will each stand in at noseguard.

Anthony Beard is a big runner on the defense and will play middle linebacker. Several players are vying for the outside linebacker spots, including Dylan Duhon, Marlow and sophomore Justin Potter.

Kevin Brackin played special teams last season and will come on as a cornerback in 2008,

joined by Freeman. The Raiders will also move Granado to one of the corner positions. At safety, Jesse Sparks is looking solid with Trent Latino and Kyler Keith also working for a starting spot.

“We just don’t have the numbers not to play some guys both ways, but we’ll avoid doing that as much as possible,” said Credeur. “Last year we had 30 seniors and this year we have 24.

So there’s not a big dropoff as far as numbers of seniors goes. It’s just that our depth is not as good.”

1585 Beasley Rd

755-4793

Lumberton

Find sports coverage each week at silsbeebee.com

Page 24, FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE

FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE Page 21

THE LUMBERTON RAIDERS: TEAM PREVIEW

THE SILSBEE TIGERS: 2007 FOOTBALL IN REVIEW

Tigers narrowly miss trip to 3A state playoffs

Lumberton Raiders Varsity Football 2008

Raiders ready to start anew for 2008 season It would be easy to consider the 2008 season a continuation of the 2007 history-making year at Lumberton High School.

And who could blame the Raiders faithful for wanting more of what happened last year?

The Raiders advanced to the playoffs for the first time in school history, reaching the third round of the state playoffs before ending their unlikely run through the postseason.

But Head Coach Alvin Credeur is quick to point out that last year is just that ... last year.

“There’s not a pressure to succeed this year because of what happened last year,” he said.

“There’s a pressure to succeed this year because of what we know we have this year, the potential we have.’

The Raiders indeed have potential though it may not be indicated by the pure number of returning starters from last years 11-2 squad.

Lumberton returns two strong running backs from last season in tailback Jacob Hanna and back Anthony Beard. Hanna ran for

312 yards and six touchdowns a year ago, running in limited action behind big senior back Cody Hussey.

Tackle Hunter Howden and center Kyle Gillam return after all-district performances on the offensive line. Other linemen expected to make an impact this season are tackle Matt Burkhalter, and guards Hunter Grillo and Mark Murrill.

“If I could have five offensive linemen come back every year, we could make the rest happen” Credeur said, referring to the

importance of the O-line. “The offensive line is a good place to start. It’s always nice to have a quarterback return, but we’re just not at that point right now.”

In fact, the quarterback question still lingers as a battle ensues between a newcomer and a solid defensive returner.

Sophomore Ryan Hughes has shown some ability behind center in scrimmages and practices so far this season, but he’ll be pressed by senior defensive end Kendall Duvall.

See RAIDERS on Page 25

2008 Raiders Schedule Aug. 29 at Hamshire-Fannett Sept. 5 Barbers Hill Sept. 12 at Silsbee Sept. 19 OPEN Sept. 26 Livingston* Oct. 3 at Vidor* Oct. 10 Beaumont Central* Oct. 17 Beaumont Ozen* Oct. 24 at PNeches-Groves* Oct. 31 LC-Mauriceville* Nov. 7 at Nederland* * District 20-4A game

It looked as though the Silsbee Tigers would have another one of their patented seasons of success and playoff bound hopes.

With Game 1 of the season, the Tigers squeaked past Houston Sterling 33-32 with Jeremy Johnson carrying the biggest load in the final offensive drive for Silsbee.

Johnson earned the touchdown on a two-yard run with other runs of 6, 14, and 17 yards in the drive.

It looked like the football gods were on Silsbee’s side right from the beginning.

But then Port Neches-Groves came to town.

It was then that the Silsbee offense found out what a solid defense could do as the Indians took a 29-0 win back to The Reservation.

The Indians would eventually take their Class 4A district championship while the Tigers limped back to the fieldhouse trying to figure out what happened.

Revived by a good week of practice and ready for a fight, they found one in Newton, a Class 2A state powerhouse who showed they were just as good as they ever where.

The Eagles took the game to the ground and rolled to a 41-21 non-district victory.

Now sitting at 1-2 in non-district play, the Tigers had to focus on the start of district play in a league that consisted of eight teams.

Right out of the chute, the Tigers came alive, dominating Orangefield 42-0 as the Silsbee defense limited OF to just five first downs in the game.

A balanced rushing game from the Tigers, led by Chris Castle and Chris Barnes, rolled past

2007 Tigers Results Silsbee 33 Hou. Sterling 32 PN-G 29 Silsbee 0 Newton 41 Silsbee 21 Silsbee 42 Orangefield 0* Silsbee 55 Bridge City 7* Ham-Fannett 35 Silsbee 14* WO-S 17 Silsbee 6* Silsbee 36 H-Jefferson 7* Kirbyville 29 Silsbee 28* Jasper 40 Silsbee 34* * District game

Orangefield’s defense for a big 10 district record.

Silsbee came back again the following week and did a repeat job on Bridge City for a 55-7 win over the Cardinals.

Jeremy Johnson led the Tigers’ offense with 160 yards and two touchdowns passing while adding two touchdowns and two TDs rushing.

It appeared that the Tigers were on top of the world as they advanced to the third week of district play with a 2-0 record.

Hamshire-Fannett had already been hit for a loss in district and stood at 1-1 as they headed to Tigers Stadium.

It would take a monumental effort by H-F to topple these Tigers.

That’s exactly what the Longhorns provided.

H-F outscored Silsbee 35-14 in the third district game of the season for each team.

The Longhorns took the opening kickoff and moments later entered the endzone for a 7-0 lead.

It was a harbinger of things to come as the Longhorns followed

that momentum to victory.

Unfortunately for Silsbee, they were now looking at a 2-1 district record with the West OrangeStark Mustangs waiting in the wings.

The Mustangs had not lost a district game since joining the Class 3A ranks.

After playing Silsbee, that record remained intact.

WO-S came away with a narrow 17-6 win over Silsbee. In spite of the loss, the Tigers coaches considered the game one of the hardest-fought of the season as Silsbee stayed close to the final buzzer.

Now facing a 2-2 district record, the Tigers were slowly putting their own backs to the wall as the district season continued.

A 36-7 win over HardinJefferson put the Tigers right back in the mix, but a heartbreaking 29-28 loss to Kirbyville left the final outcome of the season at the last game of the year.

Facing a must-win situation aginst Jasper, the Tigers were unable to come away with the win, losing 40-34, ending Silsbee’s run at the playoffs.

The Tigers in 2008 are focusing on one game at a time after a disappointing end to this past season left Silsbee at home during playoff time. It was the first time the Tigers have stayed home since their drop from Class 4A to 3A

Page 22, FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE

Pos. WR/DB WR/DB WR/DB QB/DB SR/DE WR/DB WR/DB WR/DB WR/DB WR/DB

No. 14 15 17 18 19 20 22 23 28 30

Name Jacob Keefer LaTarron Barnes Caleb Henry Chris Rountree Jarrian Rhone Josh James Chris Barnes Chris Castle Rakheem Bolton Todd McKee

Class Fr Sr So Sr So Sr Jr Sr Jr Jr

Pos. LB/RB RB/LB LB/RB WR/DB WR/DB RB/DB RB/DB RB/DB RB/DB OL/LB

No. 34 42 44 50 52 55 58 60 62 63

Name Matthew Deaver Levell Hawkins Eric Wilder Shane White Tarik Angelle Patrick Steed John Whitmore Matthew White Phillip Keel Brian Webb

Class Sr Sr Jr Sr Sr Sr Sr Jr Jr Jr

Pos. K/P DE/TE TE/LB OL/DE OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL

No. 64 70 72 73 74 77 80 85 86

Name Class Pos. Justin Flowers So OL/DL Keelem Robinson Sr OL/DL Nick Stutts Sr OL/DL Jazzma Sanders Sr OL/DL Matthew Baldree So OL/DL Clint Evans Sr OL/DL Chris Willis Jr TE/DE Erik Toups Jr WR/DB Josh Skinner Sr TE/DE

Football Fans Know That

Cost Less at

Morris Moore 1275 Business Hwy 96 • Silsbee

www.morrismoore.com

Silsbee High School Varsity Football Team

2008

Name Class Dorian Turk Sr Pheal Hill Jr Chase Kelly Sr Jeremy Johnson Jr Leroy Simmons Jr Shannon Robinson Sr Ronald Brown Jr Prentice Lane So Trey Singleton Jr Craig Porter Jr

2008

No. 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE, Page 23

Page 22, FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE

Pos. WR/DB WR/DB WR/DB QB/DB SR/DE WR/DB WR/DB WR/DB WR/DB WR/DB

No. 14 15 17 18 19 20 22 23 28 30

Name Jacob Keefer LaTarron Barnes Caleb Henry Chris Rountree Jarrian Rhone Josh James Chris Barnes Chris Castle Rakheem Bolton Todd McKee

Class Fr Sr So Sr So Sr Jr Sr Jr Jr

Pos. LB/RB RB/LB LB/RB WR/DB WR/DB RB/DB RB/DB RB/DB RB/DB OL/LB

No. 34 42 44 50 52 55 58 60 62 63

Name Matthew Deaver Levell Hawkins Eric Wilder Shane White Tarik Angelle Patrick Steed John Whitmore Matthew White Phillip Keel Brian Webb

Class Sr Sr Jr Sr Sr Sr Sr Jr Jr Jr

Pos. K/P DE/TE TE/LB OL/DE OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL

No. 64 70 72 73 74 77 80 85 86

Name Class Pos. Justin Flowers So OL/DL Keelem Robinson Sr OL/DL Nick Stutts Sr OL/DL Jazzma Sanders Sr OL/DL Matthew Baldree So OL/DL Clint Evans Sr OL/DL Chris Willis Jr TE/DE Erik Toups Jr WR/DB Josh Skinner Sr TE/DE

Football Fans Know That

Cost Less at

Morris Moore 1275 Business Hwy 96 • Silsbee

www.morrismoore.com

Silsbee High School Varsity Football Team

2008

Name Class Dorian Turk Sr Pheal Hill Jr Chase Kelly Sr Jeremy Johnson Jr Leroy Simmons Jr Shannon Robinson Sr Ronald Brown Jr Prentice Lane So Trey Singleton Jr Craig Porter Jr

2008

No. 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE, Page 23

Page 24, FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE

FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE Page 21

THE LUMBERTON RAIDERS: TEAM PREVIEW

THE SILSBEE TIGERS: 2007 FOOTBALL IN REVIEW

Tigers narrowly miss trip to 3A state playoffs

Lumberton Raiders Varsity Football 2008

Raiders ready to start anew for 2008 season It would be easy to consider the 2008 season a continuation of the 2007 history-making year at Lumberton High School.

And who could blame the Raiders faithful for wanting more of what happened last year?

The Raiders advanced to the playoffs for the first time in school history, reaching the third round of the state playoffs before ending their unlikely run through the postseason.

But Head Coach Alvin Credeur is quick to point out that last year is just that ... last year.

“There’s not a pressure to succeed this year because of what happened last year,” he said.

“There’s a pressure to succeed this year because of what we know we have this year, the potential we have.’

The Raiders indeed have potential though it may not be indicated by the pure number of returning starters from last years 11-2 squad.

Lumberton returns two strong running backs from last season in tailback Jacob Hanna and back Anthony Beard. Hanna ran for

312 yards and six touchdowns a year ago, running in limited action behind big senior back Cody Hussey.

Tackle Hunter Howden and center Kyle Gillam return after all-district performances on the offensive line. Other linemen expected to make an impact this season are tackle Matt Burkhalter, and guards Hunter Grillo and Mark Murrill.

“If I could have five offensive linemen come back every year, we could make the rest happen” Credeur said, referring to the

importance of the O-line. “The offensive line is a good place to start. It’s always nice to have a quarterback return, but we’re just not at that point right now.”

In fact, the quarterback question still lingers as a battle ensues between a newcomer and a solid defensive returner.

Sophomore Ryan Hughes has shown some ability behind center in scrimmages and practices so far this season, but he’ll be pressed by senior defensive end Kendall Duvall.

See RAIDERS on Page 25

2008 Raiders Schedule Aug. 29 at Hamshire-Fannett Sept. 5 Barbers Hill Sept. 12 at Silsbee Sept. 19 OPEN Sept. 26 Livingston* Oct. 3 at Vidor* Oct. 10 Beaumont Central* Oct. 17 Beaumont Ozen* Oct. 24 at PNeches-Groves* Oct. 31 LC-Mauriceville* Nov. 7 at Nederland* * District 20-4A game

It looked as though the Silsbee Tigers would have another one of their patented seasons of success and playoff bound hopes.

With Game 1 of the season, the Tigers squeaked past Houston Sterling 33-32 with Jeremy Johnson carrying the biggest load in the final offensive drive for Silsbee.

Johnson earned the touchdown on a two-yard run with other runs of 6, 14, and 17 yards in the drive.

It looked like the football gods were on Silsbee’s side right from the beginning.

But then Port Neches-Groves came to town.

It was then that the Silsbee offense found out what a solid defense could do as the Indians took a 29-0 win back to The Reservation.

The Indians would eventually take their Class 4A district championship while the Tigers limped back to the fieldhouse trying to figure out what happened.

Revived by a good week of practice and ready for a fight, they found one in Newton, a Class 2A state powerhouse who showed they were just as good as they ever where.

The Eagles took the game to the ground and rolled to a 41-21 non-district victory.

Now sitting at 1-2 in non-district play, the Tigers had to focus on the start of district play in a league that consisted of eight teams.

Right out of the chute, the Tigers came alive, dominating Orangefield 42-0 as the Silsbee defense limited OF to just five first downs in the game.

A balanced rushing game from the Tigers, led by Chris Castle and Chris Barnes, rolled past

2007 Tigers Results Silsbee 33 Hou. Sterling 32 PN-G 29 Silsbee 0 Newton 41 Silsbee 21 Silsbee 42 Orangefield 0* Silsbee 55 Bridge City 7* Ham-Fannett 35 Silsbee 14* WO-S 17 Silsbee 6* Silsbee 36 H-Jefferson 7* Kirbyville 29 Silsbee 28* Jasper 40 Silsbee 34* * District game

Orangefield’s defense for a big 10 district record.

Silsbee came back again the following week and did a repeat job on Bridge City for a 55-7 win over the Cardinals.

Jeremy Johnson led the Tigers’ offense with 160 yards and two touchdowns passing while adding two touchdowns and two TDs rushing.

It appeared that the Tigers were on top of the world as they advanced to the third week of district play with a 2-0 record.

Hamshire-Fannett had already been hit for a loss in district and stood at 1-1 as they headed to Tigers Stadium.

It would take a monumental effort by H-F to topple these Tigers.

That’s exactly what the Longhorns provided.

H-F outscored Silsbee 35-14 in the third district game of the season for each team.

The Longhorns took the opening kickoff and moments later entered the endzone for a 7-0 lead.

It was a harbinger of things to come as the Longhorns followed

that momentum to victory.

Unfortunately for Silsbee, they were now looking at a 2-1 district record with the West OrangeStark Mustangs waiting in the wings.

The Mustangs had not lost a district game since joining the Class 3A ranks.

After playing Silsbee, that record remained intact.

WO-S came away with a narrow 17-6 win over Silsbee. In spite of the loss, the Tigers coaches considered the game one of the hardest-fought of the season as Silsbee stayed close to the final buzzer.

Now facing a 2-2 district record, the Tigers were slowly putting their own backs to the wall as the district season continued.

A 36-7 win over HardinJefferson put the Tigers right back in the mix, but a heartbreaking 29-28 loss to Kirbyville left the final outcome of the season at the last game of the year.

Facing a must-win situation aginst Jasper, the Tigers were unable to come away with the win, losing 40-34, ending Silsbee’s run at the playoffs.

The Tigers in 2008 are focusing on one game at a time after a disappointing end to this past season left Silsbee at home during playoff time. It was the first time the Tigers have stayed home since their drop from Class 4A to 3A

Page 20, FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE

FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE, Page 25

Lumberton High School Junior varsity Football

J & W Complete Flooring Co.

The Silsbee High School Band flutes section includes, front from left, Katlyn Williams, Heather Isbell, Maggie Stapleton, Jessica Adams and Rhiannon Unger; and back from left, Sedonia LeBlanc, Courtnee McCollum, PJ Baldwin, Elizabeth Grimm and Jennifer Paulus.

THE SILSBEE BEE FOOTBALL CONTEST

Key to contest win is in number picks The Silsbee Bee will again hold its football contest this season. The winner will receive a $20.00 prize. They will get their picture in the paper and have bragging rights for at least six days.

The contest is very simple and yet it is very challenging. It brings into question ones knowledge of football and places in question whether loyalty is more important than victory.

Each week the paper will post 15 games in the paper.

Contestants must choose a winner in each of the 15 games.

The contestant must then assign a point value to each game using numbers between 1 and 15

Open at 6am

as the point value. They can only use each number once.

The key element in the contest is to assign the 15 value to the game they feel most confident about and the one value to the game they have the most questions about.

When the scores are tabulated the points for he games the contestant gets right are tabulated and the points for the games missed are subtracted.

The idea is to get the high number games right and if you miss to make sure you do it on the low number games.

Every effort will be made to pick the games form high school games being played in this area.

Southeast Texas Football Schedules

“Guaranteed To be The Best” 810 N . 5TH STREET • SILSBEE

MONDAY-FRIDAY 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM • SATURDAY 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Hardin Hornets Aug. 29 @ Hull-Daisetta Sept. 5 @ Tarkington Sept. 12 Shepherd Sept. 19 @ Trinity Sept. 26 OPEN Oct. 3 Anahuac* Oct. 10 @ East Chambers* Oct. 17 Kountze* Oct. 24 @ Warren* Oct. 31 Buna* Nov. 7 @ Deweyville* Warren Warriors Aug. 29 @ West Hardin Sept. 5 @ Trinity Sept. 12 Woodville Sept. 19 Groveton Sept. 26 @ Kountze* Oct. 3 OPEN Oct. 10 Buna* Oct. 17 @ Deweyville* Oct. 24 Hardin* Oct. 31 @ Anahuac* Nov. 7 East Chambers*

• Carpet • Vinyl • Ceramic • Tile • Wood

GO TEAM!!

ALL THE WAY HARDIN CO.!

Lumberton High School Freshman Football

RAIDERS Duvall, according to Credeur, has played quarterback all the way up through the Lumberton football system and had played defensive back until this past season.

“With the defensive scheme we played last year, he fit perfectly at the defensive end position,” said Credeur. “If (Hughes) can handle it, he’ll play some quarterback.”

Credeur said the main reason he would play a sophomore at QB is to maintain the defensive prowess that Duvall offers on the defensive side of the ball.

“We’re limited in the number of guys we have back on defense, so if we move Kendall to QB, then we’re stealing from our defense. If we can keep from doing that, it helps us out.”

The Raiders lost their key tight end when Cody Evans graduated last year, which means the search is on for a replacement. Ty Choate and Caleb Schexneider will vie for the job.

Ryan Asher, a sophomore, and

From Page 24 senior Crew Marlow will work at fullback, making the way for Hanna and Beard at tailback.

Trace Freeman played some at wide receiver last year and will return at that position in 2008. He will be joined by Taylor Granado, who struggled with a staph infection inside a bone but is back for this season, along with Tyler Wilson and Kyler Keith.

On defense, the Raiders lost their entire linebackers crew and all of its secondary group, leaving coaches searching for new stars beyond the defensive line.

Hanna will play defensive end and Murrill and Kyle Gillam will each stand in at noseguard.

Anthony Beard is a big runner on the defense and will play middle linebacker. Several players are vying for the outside linebacker spots, including Dylan Duhon, Marlow and sophomore Justin Potter.

Kevin Brackin played special teams last season and will come on as a cornerback in 2008,

joined by Freeman. The Raiders will also move Granado to one of the corner positions. At safety, Jesse Sparks is looking solid with Trent Latino and Kyler Keith also working for a starting spot.

“We just don’t have the numbers not to play some guys both ways, but we’ll avoid doing that as much as possible,” said Credeur. “Last year we had 30 seniors and this year we have 24.

So there’s not a big dropoff as far as numbers of seniors goes. It’s just that our depth is not as good.”

1585 Beasley Rd

755-4793

Lumberton

Find sports coverage each week at silsbeebee.com

Page 26, FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE

FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE Page 19

Silsbee HS Tigerettes 2008

THE LUMBERTON RAIDERS: VOLLEYBALL PREVIEW

Silsbee HIgh School Cheerleader managers are, from left, Adrian Hugon, Sydnee Leblanc and Cathryn Dodd.

PARTS • SERVICE • ACCESSORIES

GOOD LUCK RAIDERS And All Area Schools!

3177 Highway 69 South • Lumberton Phone: 409-755-2225 Fax: 409-755-2229

For All Your Building & Remodeling Needs!

ORANGE COUNTY BUILDING MATERIAL Located in the Villlard Plaza

Go Raiders 2008!

900 South Main Lumberton

409-751-6000 Fax: 490-751-6100

www.ocbm.net

Lumberton Varsity Lady Raiders: front from left: Caitlyn Cunningham, Brooke Crowell, Molly James, Kat Renzo and Stacy Ayers. Back from left: Courtney Howell, Victoria Jones, Rachel Kemp, Alyssa Valestro, Alicia Allen and Coach Carissa Barrows. Not pictured: Kindell Johnston and Katie Letourneau.

Raiders ready for playoffs Coming off what some Lumbertonians would consider a lackluster performance in 2007, Coach Carissa Barrows and her Lady Raider volleyball team are looking to right the ship and crack into the playoff race this fall.

“We had a tough run of it last year,” Barrows said of the Lady Raiders 22-14 season record (6-8 in district). “This team knows how to win in the close games, because we were in second place going into our final four matches last season and lost all four in heart breaking fashion.”

With four returning lettermen and three returning seniors starters, the Lady Raiders look to crack into the new four team playoff format at the 4A level.

“The nucleus of our team will be the three starters that are returning, Barrows said of Alicia Allen (outside hitter), Alyssa Valastro (middle block-

er) and Courtney Howell (setter). “These young ladies know what it is going to take to lead us to the playoffs, and I am going to be leaning on their experience in a big way.”

Another player that will be contributing the Raider cause is junior Molly James. At present the utility player is recuperating from a broken collar bone, but is expected to be released for play in the next week or so.

Barrows, five year head coach of the Lady Raiders, has three senior ladies that will be manning the defensive specialist positions. Kat Renzo, Caitlyn Cunningham and Stacey Ayers.

The junior class will have a trio hitting the floor for the Columbia blue and red this season. Brooke Crowell (utility), Katie Letourneau (right side hitter) and Victoria Jones (outside hitter) look to bring a fast paced style of play.

Making ‘em straight since ‘78 I-Car Certified • Quick Turnaround We Honor Most Competitive Estimates Free Estimates • State-of-the-Art Paint & Body Shop Superior Craftsmanship • Insurance Claims Welcome

409.755.7557 3319 Hwy 69 S • Lumberton (Keith Rd. Exit)

Silsbee HIgh School Band: Flag Corps is, front from left, Amber Landers and Kayla Lewis; middle, Lorin Rae Carrell and Jodi Kelley; and back, Victoria Fleetwood, Barbara Odom, Mindi Netherland, and Shay Ratcliff.

FAX: 755.7556 MON-FRI 8:30am - 5:30pm

Officers for this year’s team include Capt. Maggie Stapleton, 1st Lt. Lauren Biscamp and Lt. Kaitlyn Hollis; and social officers President Marissa Burrell, Vice President Amanda Potts, and Secretary Jennifer Paulus. Line members include Jessica Adams, Heather Isbell, Sarah Fisher, Kerri Josey, Brittany Lyles, Rachel Victor and Ashley Wheeler. Manager is Kelsey Watson.

2008 Lady Raiders Volleyball Schedule Aug. 28-30 at HamshireFannett Tourn.

Aug. 29 at Splendora Sept. 2 vs. Livingston Sept. 4-6 at YMBL Tourn.

Sept. 5 at Crosby Sept. 9 at Vidor* Sept. 11-13 at LCM Tourn.

Sept. 16 vs. Central* Sept. 19 vs. Ozen* Sept. 23 at PNG* Sept. 26 vs. LCM* Sept. 30 at Nederland* Oct. 3 at Livingston* Oct. 7 vs. Vidor* Oct. 10 at Central* Oct. 14 at Ozen* Oct. 17 vs. PNG* Oct. 21 at LCM* Oct. 24 vs. Nederland*

Silsbee HIgh School Football Tunnel Team is, front from left, Amy Morgan, Holly Phillips and Brad Bebee; and back from left, Andy Eberhard, Hilary Hayes and Pablo Lepsch.

* District 20-4A game

Rounding out the squad will be a pair of first year freshmen.

Rachel Kemp and Kindell Johnston look to make a splash in the big pond at their middle blocker and outside hitter positions.

“One thing that excites me about this team is that we were in a position to win every match we were in last year,” Barrows said. “With the tough losses that we experienced, these ladies know that the little things that we stress to do correctly every play, will eventually pay off when the game is on the line.” Barrows said that every night, any team in their district can beat any other team. The Lumberton Lady Raider plan to claim their share of the victories this season.

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Page 18, FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE

FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE, Page 27

THE SILSBEE TIGERS: TIGERETTES

Tigerettes celebrating 50th anniversary in 2008 When Cynthia Chandler and her daughter Jenny decided to take over responsibility for the Tigerettes, they had no idea the significance of the 2008-2009 school year had in store.

As they prepared for the new

season with a young group of dancers, they discovered that this is the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the Tigerettes.

Now, that takes some serious consideration.

“We knew this had to be a spe-

cial year for the team,” said Jenny. “We have some special things planned for the year. We want this to be something memorable, something that the girls can take with them and something that past Tigerettes can be

proud of too.”

Cynthia and Jenny work comfortably together as mother and daughter, with one starting a sentence and the other finishing the thought as though they were of one mind.

And with the Tigerettes, they are of one opinion ... this will be an impressive year for the Silsbee High School dance team.

“We told them the first day that we expected them to be ladies, to respect us and one another,” said Cynthia. “Without that respect, you don’t have anything.”

With two new sponsors, the TIgerettes are embracing the idea of a fresh start. With just one junior and the rest underclassmen performing this year, a new start is simply a matter of fact.

“They are there to be molded into the idea of what a Tigerette should be, of what we want to represent for the school,” said Jenny. “And they have responded really well. They are excited and eager to learn. They’re like sponges, soaking everything up.”

Jenny has 15 years of dance

education through her younger years and Cynthia helps additionally with creativity after spending the past 28 years as a theater instructor.

“During football season, we’ll be concentrating on a more precision style show, kind of like the Rockettes,” said Cynthia.

“For our spring show, we’ll work more on a studio dance style.”

The spring show is set for the weekend of April 24-25 with a children’s workshop on April 18.

Officers for this year’s team include Capt. Maggie Stapleton, 1st Lt. Lauren Biscamp and Lt. Kaitlyn Hollis; and social officers President Marissa Burrell, Vice President Amanda Potts, and Secretary Jennifer Paulus.

Line members include Jessica Adams, Heather Isbell, Sarah Fisher, Kerri Josey, Brittany Lyles, Rachel Victor and Ashley Wheeler. Manager is Kelsey Watson.

Former Tigerettes are asked to email cchandler@silsbeeisd.org to provide contact information for an honorary celebration during the spring show.

The Silsbee High School Band Drum Majors are, back, Lindsay Yoder and Lauren Brock.

Back Row:Mary Coleman, Joan Holt, Wiley Fae Smith Front Row:Nadine Foster, Mary Fenner, George Read

Lumberton High School Band 2008

Lumberton Junior Varsity Volleyball Lumberton Junior Varsity Lady Raiders: front from left: Kacy Combest, Meagan Minton, Randi Owens and Ashley Braddock. Back from left: Coach Danielle Mitchell, Baylee Hart, Jenna Worth, Sarah Comstock, Lauren Daigle and Danielle Stewart.

Lumberton High School Mascots for 2008 are Sumer Meyers and Wade Hendrix.

Page 28, FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE

FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE Page 17

The Silsbee High School Band trumpets includes, front from left, Heather Dammann, Joshua Bendy, Kolton Herrin and Nicole Dufner; and back from left, Auston Barnes, James Trabing, Ashley Bush, Johnathon Shelton and Ryan Sanchez.

“I Wish All the Teams of My District the Very Best This Season. I hope to team up with every one of you to make Texas and especially Southeast Texas a better place to live and work. Thank You for Your VOTE” Mike Hamilton

The Silsbee High School Band baritone section includes Timothy Whitt and Ryan Moulder.

Pat McGallion Hardin County Precint 2 Commissioner

The Silsbee High School Band percussion section includes, from left, Daniel Willard, Christian Thompson, Ray Hawk, Bubba Jones, Mason Franco, Jash Carraway and Ashley Richter.

The Silsbee High School Band French horns include Andreya Stephenson and Caitlin Stuckey.

Good Luck

Page 16, FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE

FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE, Page 29

THE LUMBERTON RAIDERS: DISTRICT PREVIEW

Raiders, Bulldogs battle for 20-4A supremacy When it came down to the end of the 2007 season, the third and final playoff spot in the district hinged on a single game between Nederland and Lumberton.

This year, the same scenario will likely play out, but this time for the District 20-4A title.

The Raiders came away with a 33-7 victory over the Bulldogs in clinching that final playoff berth, ending a string of playoff appearances by the Bulldogs that ran 11 years long.

This season, though, Nederland appears to be ready to take the top spot thanks to a dozen returning starting players from a year ago. Six of those come from an offensive team that averaged 24 points a game.

Leading the attack is junior quarterback Kirby Bellow who completed 93 passes for 1,640 yards and 21 touchdowns. Wide receiver Asa Cardenas was his favorite target, hauling in 14 touchdown passes and making the all-state

The Silsbee High School Band base clarinet section includes, from left, Crystal Wheeler and Melissa Crane.

Tiger Pride

Gary Butler • 1972 SHS Grad

The

District 20-4A Predictions 1. Nederland 2. Lumberton 3. Port Neches-Groves 4. Livingston 5. Central 6. Ozen 7. Vidor 8. LC-Mauriceville team last year.

On defense, all-district defensive end Wareall Grogan is back with three-year starter senior linbacker Jordan Landry leading the fight to stop opposing offenses.

Lumberton might have lost its big back, Cody Hussey, from a year ago, but there is still plenty of ammunition to fire as the Raiders set out to prove that last year was no fluke.

The Raiders reeled off six

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SIlsbee High School Varsity Cheerleaders include mascot Aaron Chambless; middle row from left, Brooklin Pustka, Kayal Burrous, Kristine Kelley, Shea Hart and Jade Freedman; and back from left, Brittanie Armstrong, Hillaire Soignet, Kara Szemborski, Dyanna Stricklan and Jordan Dehart.

The Port Neches-Groves Indians won the district last year, but a season later they will be fighting to simply find a place among the top three for another trip to the Class 4A state football playoffs.

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straight wins before losing to Port Neches-Groves in district play. That one loss, giving the Indians a tie-breaker that put Lumberton in jeopardy of not making the playoffs at all, did little to stop the Raiders’ historymaking run to the playoffs.

Rolling through the rest of district undefeated, the Raiders advanced to the third round before losing to Waller. Along the way, they upset defending state champion La Marque 2421.

All of that experience and the momentum built by the Raiders means that a handful of starters back from last year will be joined by a group of enthusiastic up-and-comers in 2008.

Two offensive starters return this season. Tailback Jacob Hanna had 312 yards and six touchdowns running behind Hussey. The offensive line should be strong with tackle Hunter Howden and center Kyle Gillam back in place this year.

Defensively, the Raiders allowed just 14 points a game last year. Four starters return, including Hanna, who had 49 tackles (20 for a loss) and six sacks in 2007 at defensive end.

Kendall Duvall had 31 tackles, nine for a loss, at the other end position. Middle linebacker Anthony Beard had 109 tackles this past season.

As usual, the MidCounty powerhouse Port NechesGroves is back looking for another shot at the district title, bring with it seven starters back from last year’s area-round finalist.

Six of those seven starters come on the offensive side of the ball. Top starter back is quarterback Harrison Tatum, who threw for 1,073 yards and seven touchdowns. Tailback Josh

Wright had 870 yards and six TDs last season.

The lone returning starter on defense is Jerin Spikes, who plays the line.

Some see Livingston as much better than a middle-of-the-pack contender for the district title in 2007. The Lions shocked its

opponents with a trip to the third round of the playoffs before Dayton finally came along and put an end to the Livingston dream. Now a part of this district, the Lions are contenders with five offensive and five defensive starters back from 2007. On See 20-4A on Page 30

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Page 30, FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE

FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE Page 15

THE LUMBERTON RAIDERS: CROSS COUNTRY PREVIEW

Banner year underway for cross country team “Over the river and through the woods....” Not only is that the first line of a holiday tune, but in matters of cross country running, it is a mantra that is all too familiar. The three mile jaunts that lead over sod, pavement, water holes and other all-terrain surfaces, can be as private a moment as an athlete could ever ask for.

At Lumberton High School (LHS), coach A,J Johnson and his cross country teams are gearing up for what is shaping up to be a banner year for Raider runners.

Johnson, a second year coach, who spent his undergrad days at the University of Arkansas has much to be excited about as his boys and girls teams are starting to take shape.

“One of the problems we had last year,” Johnson explained, “was the fact that there were a few meets that we were in the thick of things, but because we didn’t have the required five competitors in the races, we ere not allowed to compete for the team win.”

Johnson hopes that with his returning runners and the crop of newcomers (both to LHS and to the state of Texas) that the fastest growing community in Hardin County will also become the fastest growing cross country squads in the area.

On the boys side of the LHS squad, Johnson is excited to have senior runner Hunter Bradshaw continuing his devotion to the long winded sport.

“Hunter has run every year, almost year round,” Johnson said “He participates in two or three events over the summer and runs an hour or two everyday. I don’t have to worry about Hunter putting in the work that it takes to be successful in this sport.”

From running an 18 minute three mile course at the Sea Rim Striders event to running halfmarathons in Houston, Bradshaw is running enthusiast that looks to challenge some of the big boys in his 4-A district for a trip to the regional and state meets. He advanced to the regional meet at North Harris Community

push him to be an even better Raider strider.

Senior Stefan Blignaup comes to LHS via Indiana by way of

Raiders!

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South Africa, while Tennessee freshman Alec Murphy will bring a fresh step to the course.

See RUNNERS on Page 31

The Silsbee High School Band Clarinets section includes, front from left, Monet Randolph, Keaneu Settler, L’De’Je’ Banks, Jacie Redden and Dulon Durham; and back from left, Kelsi Josey, Terance Cartwright, Kaylee Brewer, Mary Allison Boothman, Kaitlyn Huggins and Holly Sikes.

Lumberton High School Varsity Cheerleaders

20-4A

Let’s Go

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College in 2007.

Bradshawr will be joined by a couple of transfer students this season, that Johnson says will

offense, quarterback Dustin Harris returns with help in the backfield from running back Keaton Parker. He had 407 yards and three touchdowns rushing and 235 yards and four TDs receiving.

On defense, Josh Henderson picked three interceptions at the cornerback position.

The Battle of Beaumont could come down to simple pride with Central and Ozen lagging behind in the race for a playoff spot in 20-4A. Central had made the playoffs

From Page 29 four of the past five years before missing out last season. This year they bring back six offensive and six defensive starters.

Charlie Thomas ran for 550 yards and five touchdowns and Victor Spikes had 350 yards receiving last year. This season, Spikes will see time at quarterback.

On defense, Thomas played in the secondary and came away with 60 tackles. Justin Labove had 85 tackles and one interception for the Jaguars.

For the Panthers, improvement is taking time after going 1-9 two years ago, then 4-6 this past season.

To take the next step, they will rely on nine offensive returning starters this season. You can count on a flashy passing game if they can find a quality quarterback since two solid wide receivers return in Willie Jefferson and Anthony Lee. On defense, six starters are back led by linebacker Justin Isadore, who had 112 tackles a year ago.

Vidor finished the year 4-6 this past season, so they are only a game or two from finding the playoffs for the first time since 2000. The Pirates have seven starters back on each side of the ball, including quarterback Chris Teinert and fullback Theron Rynolds. Teinert is the top tackler back from last year when he collected 143 stops for the Pirates.

Jerrod Williamson had five picks at the cornerback position.

The Little CypressMauriceville Bears just couldn’t find their footing in 2007, struggling to a 1-9 season finish, their only win coming against Houston Kashmere in Week 3.

The struggle will continue with a part-time running back, Chad Humphrey, the only returning skill talent the Bears can claim in 2008. He is one of six returning starters on offense.

The Bears return just two defensive starters in linebacker Howard Griffith, who had 55 tackles, and Michael Green at the defensive back position.

The Silsbee High School Band Trombones section includes, front from left, Caleb Taylor, Chelsea Nelson, Ashley Lacey and Aaron Ward; and back from left, B.J. Oster, Scott Lacy, Josh Watson and Xavier Robertson.

2008 Silsbee High School Cross Country Schedule Sept. 13 at Weatherspoon Meet, Jasper Sept. 27 at Kountze Invitational Oct. 2 at Livingston Invitational Oct. 11 at Lufkin Coca Cola Meet Oct. 25 at Middle School District Meet, Claiborne Park, Vidor Oct. 29 at High School District Meet, Claiborne Park, Vidor Nov. 8 at Regional Meet, North Harris College Nov. 15 at State Meet, Round Rock

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Page 14 FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE

THE SILSBEE TIGERS: CROSS COUNTRY

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FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE, Page 31

The departure of a truly gifted runner among the boys and the return of an extremely talented girl runner highlights the start of the 2008 Silsbee High School cross country season.

Pablo Lepsch, who advanced to the regional meet this past season for the Tigers, has decided to pursue other interests.

That leaves the boys team looking for a new star, according to Coach Bob Killam.

“Pablo is a remarkable runner.

He’s one of the most accomplished cross country runners in the history of Silsbee High School.”

The Tigers followed Lepsch into the regional tournament, but aren’t left completely empty as they enter the new season.

Lettermen Matthew Deaver and Ian Littlepage are both seniors, while junior Marshall Van Winkle rounds out the experienced runners back for this season.

Deaver is an all-around athlete who is a place-kicker for the football team, a talented soccer player and a state-caliber tennis player.

Coach Killam is also looking for a strong performance from senior J.D. Bateman as well as sophomore Samuel Cowlishaw.

“Bridge City will be our biggest competition,” Killam said. “They are good every year.

Hardin-Jefferson will be right behind them. Jasper was good last year, but they are in a different district this year.”

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RUNNERS Three-sport star Mary Moody is looking for a fourth trip to the regional cross country meet this fall. Aside from cross country, she also participates in basketball in the winter and track in the spring.

The boys finished fourth in district last year. In district, the top three finishing teams and the top 10 individual performers advance to the regional meet. At regionals, the top two teams and top 10 individuals advance to state.

For the girls, Mary Moody is back for her third season as a topnotch performer. For the past two year, she has reached the regionals as an individual performer and led the Tigers team that reached the regional tournament in 2006.

“There’s not a harder working kid than Mary Moody,” said

“These three guys have already started running together,”Johnson aid. “They are comparable in style, and ran a 45 minute course the other day, matching each other step for step. They will push each other to be better.”

From Page 30 The rest of the boys team is made up of two juniors, Jared Gregory and Jeff Natherly and two newcomers, Quincy Honeycutt and Grant Jones.

Johnson admitted that on the girls; side of the coin, there is difficulty competing with the other

Killam. “Cross country is a marathon of emotions. You have to have a lot of fortitude and a lot of patience to succeed in this sport. Mary shows plenty of that.”

Two-year letterman Raynisha Washington, a junior, is back this season, as is Jessica Louviere, a sophomore who lettered last year as a freshman.

New to the high school, though not new to cross country running, are the Duvail twins, Amanda and Brittany. They saw success at the middle school level of competition and look to make an impact in high school this season.

We’ve Got Spirit, Yes We Do!

fall sports for the athletes needed for cross country.

Junior Crystal Brindle a former sprinter on the LHS track team, will anchor a squad that has only four other runners at the present.

Juniors Ashley Norton and Kaitlin Warren will try their hand at the sport, while sophomores Somer Meyers and Claudi Blignaup (Stefan’s sister) will take to the course for the Raiders.

“We have quite a bit of youth and inexperience on our teams,” Johnson concluded. “Cross country runners are a different breed of athlete. I believe that it is one of the most physically demanding sports in our schools. We hope to get some excitement built in Lumberton when they see cross country succeeding like some of the other sports have started to experience.”

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Page 32, FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE

FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE, Page 13

21-3A

From Page 12

performance in 2007.

The Bridge City Cardinals have but one direction to go in 2008 ... up.

The Cards finished 0-10 and were roughed up seriously in eight of 10 games as they averaged just 15 points per game during the season.

Eight offensive returners are led by quarterback Dustin Breaux who had 1,250 yards and nine touchdowns a year ago.

Running back Joe Robertson is back after putting up 828 yards and five touchdowns last

season.

On defense, the Cardinals return eight from a squad that allowed an AVERAGE of 54 points per game.

In spite of returning 21 of 22 starters from last year, the Hardin-Jefferson Hawks will still struggle in 2008. Trey Burrell had 507 yards rushing with three touchdowns in a season limited by an injury.

Every starter is back on defense with linebacker John Boles leading the way after recording 102 tackles.

Country Crossroads

Silsbee High School Junior Varsity Cheerleaders include Kaedra Bonner, Chelsea Morgan, Charity Pond, Adnenne Grant and Lizzie Burrell, Ally Tanton, Taquaela Thomas and Brittany Huebner.

District 21-3A Football Schedules

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Bridge City Cardinals Aug. 29 @ Liberty Sept. 5 Kountze Sept. 12 Little CypressMauriceville Sept. 19 Buna Sept. 26 @ Beaumont Kelly Oct. 3 OPEN Oct. 10 @ Hardin-Jefferson* Oct. 17 Silsbee* Oct. 24 @ West Orange-Stark* Oct. 31 @ Orangefield* Nov. 7 Hamshire-Fannett* Hamshire-Fannett Longhorns Aug. 29 Lumberton Sept. 5 @ Liberty Sept. 12 @ East Chambers Sept. 19 Huffman Sept. 26 @ Jasper Oct. 3 OPEN Oct. 10 Orangefield* Oct. 17 West Orange-Stark* Oct. 24 @ Hardin-Jefferson* Oct. 31 Silsbee* Nov. 7 @ Bridge City*

Hardin-Jefferson Hawks Aug. 29 @ Cleveland Sept. 5 @ Woodville Sept. 12 Vidor Sept. 19 East Chambers Sept. 26 Kirbyville Oct. 3 OPEN Oct. 10 Bridge City* Oct. 17 @ Orangefield* Oct. 24 Hamshire-Fannett* Oct. 31 West Orange-Stark* Nov. 7 @ Silsbee* Orangefield Bobcats Aug. 29 East Chambers Sept. 5 Buna Sept. 12 @ Liberty Sept. 19 @ Tarkington Sept. 26 Newton Oct. 3 OPEN Oct. 10 @ Hamshire-Fannett* Oct. 17 Hardin-Jefferson* Oct. 24 @ Silsbee* Oct. 31 Bridge City* Nov. 7 @ West Orange-Stark* Silsbee Tigers Aug. 29 @ Houston Davis Sept. 5 Diboll

Sept. 12 Lumberton Sept. 19 @ Newton Sept. 26 OPEN Oct. 3 Jasper Oct. 10 @ West Orange-Stark* Oct. 17 @ Bridge City* Oct. 24 Orangefield* Oct. 31 @ Hamshire-Fannett* Nov. 7 Hardin-Jefferson* West Orange-Stark Mustangs Aug. 29 @ Nederland Sept. 5 LC-Mauriceville Sept. 12 @ Kirbyville Sept. 19 Jasper Sept. 26 OPEN Oct. 3 Brookshire Royal Oct. 10 Silsbee* Oct. 17 @ Hamshire-Fannett* Oct. 24 Bridge City* Oct. 31 @ Hardin-Jefferson* Nov. 7 Orangefield*

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FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE, Page 33

THE SILSBEE TIGERS: DISTRICT PREVIEW

THE KOUNTZE LIONS: DISTRICT PREVIEW

No surprise: West Orange-Stark picked to win Here’s a surprise.

West Orange-Stark is picked to win District 21-3A. The Mustangs rolled through district without a scratch and lost just one regular-season game en route to a trip into the postseason

that went three games deep.

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Just a few short years ago, Buna, East Chambers and Hardin dominated the 2A local district with huge wins and deep runs into the playoffs.

Now former cellar-dwellers will get their chance to shine.

The Kountze Lions had to beat the Hardin Hornets to reach the playoffs a year ago, but couldn’t come away with the win, leaving them one game short of the postseason. It was a place where Kountze has not been in quite some time.

This year, after going 7-3 a year ago, the Lions will be back and this time they will take the district title.

Eight starters return on each side of the line with the offense

District 21-3A Predictions 1. West Orange-Stark 2. Silsbee 3. Hamshire-Fannett 4. Orangefield 5. Bridge City 6. Hardin-Jefferson yards on 72 carries in 2007.

Five starters return on defense for the Mustangs with linebackers Josh Lynch and Robert Jiles at the head of the pack. Although the Mustangs have yet to lose a district game since their drop from Class 4A to Class 3A, this year could spell the end to that distinguished feat.

The Tigers and Mustangs will play in the first district game of the season for both teams. If Silsbee can take advantage of WO-S having come off a string of tough non-district games, the Tigers might escape with a district title early on.

Silsbee had a tough run in 2007, missing the playoffs for the first time since dropping to Class 3A. Ten returning starters this year will help the Tigers contend for the title in 2008.

On offense, four returning starters are back, including the district’s Newcomer of the Year,

Lions, Panthers prepare for championship battle District 23-2A Predictions 1. Kountze 2. Anahuac 3. East Chambers 4. Hardin 5. Deweyville 6. Buna

led by tailback Jared Howard.

The big freshman last year had 676 yards on 125 carries with seven touchdowns, running behind his even-bigger brother in the backfield. This year, Jared gets his chance to shine on his own.

He’ll be joined by all-district

first-teamer Jack Garrett at guard while the line is shored up by Deric Puckett, Tanner Hughes, Cody Sunday and Justin Bates.

Though the Lions averaged just 21 points a game a year ago, it was enough thanks to a stingy defense that allowed only 16 points per game. Steven Gerhard and Devon Wise are back with linebackers Trey Walden and Milton Williams adding impact.

Anahuac struggled to a 2-8 season a year ago with its offense averaging only 17 points per game, while its defense surrendered 28 points a game to their opponents.

Seven offensive starters are back, including the aerial attack of quarterback Cody Johnson and wide receiver Braxton Mayes.

Running back Robert Boykins will lead the rushing attack from the backfield.

On defense, the Panthers line up nine returning starters, including a tough linebacker corps that includes Deior McNeil, Blake Sanders and Ashton Guillory.

East Chambers isn’t used to anything but winning, having advanced to the playoffs for the past 13 straight years. They’ll go back again in 2008 with seven offensive returners back from last year.

Running back Dante Raymond had 1,220 yards and 12 touchdowns last year and the offensive line will be strong with all-district lineman Tanner Mazzola

leading the way.

On defense, the Bucs have four starters back, including linebacker Alfredo Valezquez, who had 99 tackles a year ago. Also back is all-district safety Josh Adamson.

The Hardin Hornets, who played spoiler to Kountze’s run for the playoffs a year ago, might not even scratch the postseason in 2008 unless they have some luck on their side.

Last year they finished 8-2 and advanced to area. This year, the Hornets will look to repeat that success with four offensive returning starters. Among those is move-in quarterback Jeremy See 23-2A on Page 34

The Silsbee Tigers did the best they could to stop the West Orange-Stark Mustangs in 2007, but like everyone else in district, they came up short.

Jeremy Johnson. He had a big season with 1,675 yards and 17 touchdowns on 95 completions, also rushing for 621 yards and nine touchdowns. He’ll be a threat again in 2008.

Chris Castle is back at running

back for the Tigers after collecting 587 yards and seven touchdowns on 81 carries, also catching 30 passes for 413 yards and two TDs last year.

On defense, the Tigers return six from last year, including first team all-district end Josh Skinner, who had 70 tackles and four sacks. Shane White at the other end position, and tackle Patrick Steed will make a big impact in 2008 as well.

Hamshire-Fannett came away with a big win over Silsbee this past season that helped put them in contention for a playoff spot early in the district season. The Longhorns return 13 starters, including six on offense. Among those is all-district tailback Hagan Daigle who had 750 yards and nine touchdowns on 104 carries.

Seven defensive returners are led by linebacker Dustin East, who had 77 tackles in 2007.

The Orangefield Bobcats played a two-part season last year. They started out the year 06. But as the season progressed, they improved and in the second half, the Bobcats were 3-1.

Perhaps this is an indication of things to come as they enter the 2008 campaign with five offensive and eight defensive returning starters.

On offense Jace Statum will move from wide receiver to quarterback with senior Zach Peevey helping out at tailback. Last year Peevey had 456 yards and four touchdowns.

On defense, the ‘Cats welcome eight starters back from last season. Among those is junior linebacker Jacob Felts who had 107 tackles as a sophomore.

Defensive end Luke Gunstream is also back from an all-district See 21-3A on Page 13

Last season, East Chambers was the team to beat. This year, the Buccaneers will have to fight to find a spot in the playoffs as Kountze and Anahuac battle for the top two spots in the district.

For ALL Area Team Colors!

Good Luck To All Students

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Page 34, FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE

FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE, Page 11

We Support The Lions

Have a GREAT year!

Kountze High School Junior Varsity

Lauri Thompson

The Silsbee High School Tiger Keepers include, from left, Brittany Whittle, Brittany Crysel and Hasien Zane.

237 S. Pine Street • Kountze, Tx

The Kountze Lions running game, already proven potent by last year’s success from the backfield, will be even better, catching up to the already dominating Kountze defense that at time secured victory for the Lions this past season. The Lions will be going to the air in an added attack option this season.

Light up the scoreboard this football season!

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Dickey, who came from Class 4A New Caney. Dickey had 485 yards passing and three touchdowns as well as 270 yards rushing at New Caney last season.

Wide receiver Hunter Davis is back for Hardin after pulling down 43 catches for 810 yards and 11 touchdowns as a sophomore.

From Page 33 On defense, five starters return, including free safety Mitch Vellamez back after collecting 106 tackles and six interceptions last year.

The Deweyville Pirates looked like they had the world on a plate with a 4-0 record heading into district play. Then the earth fell out from under them as they

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went 0-6 through league play.

Seven offensive starters come back for redemption with fullback Keeton Addison back after collecting 1,254 yards and 12 touchdowns last year. The Pirates offensive line returns four all-district starters in Dalton Estes, Channing O’Banion, Hunter Manning and Trent Bickham.

Defensive back Joe Dooley leads a list of seven returning starters on defense.

The Buna Cougars roughed up more than a few opponents right after they dropped from Class 3A to 2A, but it looks like the Coogs will struggle in 2008.

Since that drop, the Cougars have advanced to the playoffs two years running. It will be tough to repeat though with just seven starters back from last year.

On offense, quarterback Ryan Shepherd returns after collecting 389 yards and six touchdowns last year. Running back Blanton Craft had 715 yards and 11 touchdowns rushing a year ago.

Defensively, Buna has five starters back, including Craft at defensive back where he had seven interceptions. Linebacker Dylan Hussey had 60 tackles last season.

The Silsbee High School saxophones section includeds, back from left, Jacob Rodriguez and Jordan Adams; and front from left, Colton Yount and Kenneth King.

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Page 10, FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE

LADY TIGERS Stacy Davis will return for her final year in the maroon and white after a season that saw her rack up 75 kills and a second team all district nomination at middle blocker.

Senior Chastity Foster, a transfer student from Woodville, will take the hardwood as a middle blocker for the Tigers.

Middle blocker is a position that plays well to the strength of this all state triple jump threat.

Thornton told of Foster’s apologetic attitude recently when she hung her chin on the top of the net on her way down from a smash. Look out, this young lady can jump out of the gym!

Junior Beatrice Douglas is a new face on the varsity squad, but in Thornton’s estimation will add another strong middle blocker to an already tall order for any opponent.

Thornton’s remaining seniors all fill the roll of defensive specialist. Shandral Shankle,

From Page 8

Aleixs Holmes and Tanisha Harper plan to spend their final season in the maroon and white making it hard for opposing offenses to amass points against a solid back court. Harper will also be a utility player for the Lady Tigers as her outside hitting skills make her a double threat.

Juniors Tori Gardner and Brittany Burrell will be active from their libero and right outside hitter positions.

A lone sophomore will suit up for the varsity Lady Tigers this season, but don’t take her youth as weakness. Chelsea Neely has already made her presence felt in this young season, and in Thornton’s estimation will be an added striker with her tall slender frame.

As always, Silsbee will challenge for the district title, and expects to see the Tiger Den full of supporters as they make their run into the playoffs.

FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE, Page 35

THE KOUNTZE LIONETTES: VOLLEYBALL PREVIEW

2008 Lady Tigers Volleyball Schedule

Strong group of returners to key Kountze success

Aug. 29 vs. Kountze/Ozen Aug. 28-30 at Ozen Tourn.

Sept. 2 vs. West Brook Sept. 4-6 at Dickinson Tourn.

Sept. 9 at Jasper Sept. 12 vs. LCM Sept. 11-13 at LCM Tourn.

Sept. 16 at Liberty Sept. 19 at Kirbyville Sept. 18-20 at PNG Tourn.

Sept. 23 vs. Har-Jefferson* Sept. 30 vs. Bridge City* Oct. 3 vs. Hamshire-Fannett* Oct. 7 at Orangefield* Oct. 10 at WO-S* Oct. 14 at Hardin Jefferson* Oct. 17 at Bridge City* Oct. 21 at Hamshire-Fannett* Oct. 24 vs. Orangefield* Oct. 28 vs. WO-S* * District 21-3A game

Over in the Lion’s Den, Coach second year Megan O’Quinn has 11 ladies that are looking to do some roaring this year. With seven returning lettermen, four seniors and five starters from a squad that went 27-7 and a perfect 10-0 in district play, O’Quinn has reason to be excited.

“All of my hitters have an excellent chance for a kill,” O’Quinn commented. “With strong passers and defenders as well as some great setters, we look to be in every match we play.”

O’Quinn also has a group of seniors that she will be leaning

heavily on as the Lionettes attempt to take their playoff appearance a bit deeper than the area round this season.

Senior Kayla Allen will serve as one of Kountze’s outside bombers. She was named first team all district in 2007 and looks to make her final year one for the record books.

District MVP for 2007, Kaila Johnson will be sidelined for the first two to four weeks of her final campaign with an ankle injury, but O’Quinn looks for more explosives from her middle blocker position when she returns.

Senior Lauren Deaver will fill

another outside hitter position of the Lionettes, while claassmate Katie Cooksey, who spent most of 2007 out with injuries will return to her middle blocker duties.

“We are going to have to step up every match,” O’Quinn concluded. “Everyone in our district will be after us and will will have to live up to our tradition of great volleyball.”

With the Warren Lady Warriors joining the district mix, Kountze will be ßasked to do even more in defending their district title O’Quinn has a trio of junior

netters that are going to have to step up and fill the gaps vacated by last year’s seniors.

Angelia Bloodsworth will fill the dual role of right side hitter and defensive specialist, while classmate Melanie Knighten will don the libero jersey this season.

Bloodsworth tallied 121 service aces and 147 digs in the 2007 season, and hopes to expand those totals this year. Candace Morrison will spend most of her time in the air this season, striking from the outside hitter position and building walls as one of the Lionette’s middle blockers.

O’Quinn’s underclassmen contingency will be filled by three sophomores and one freshmen.

Breanna Haynes, Kelia Pope and Allison Landis will spend their time in the back court serving as defensive specialists and setters. Ninth grader Ashleigh Kelley will come off the bench at the setter position.

The future remains as bright as ever for the Kountze Lionettes and hopes are high that the community will come out to the brand new high school gym and enjoy more exciting volleyball this season!

Silsbee High School senior Kalynn Drake was named MVP of the Vidor Tournament earlier this season.

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The Silsbee High School Band tubas section included, from left, Michael Hall, Bobbi Alvarado, Cody Parker and Gretchen Jacks.

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GO TIGERS!

You’re an important part of our success!

Kountze High School senior Lauren Deaver will be critical to the Lionettes’ success in 2008.

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Page 36, FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE

FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE, Page 9 “You Deserve the Best”

THE KOUNTZE LIONS: TEAM PREVIEW

Lions ready to break out as district champs Last year was just a preview of the things to come in 2008 for the Kountze Lions football team.

The Lions, who finished 7-3 last year, just missed the playoffs after a loss to Hardin and Buna in district.

This year, Kountze is on the warpath and nothing will stand in its way of winning that long-elusive district title and a coveted trip to the Class 2A state postseason.

Kountze has eight starters back on offense from a team that averaged 21 points a game in 2007.

The big man, Jared Howard will lead the backfield after posting 676 yards rushing on 125 carries with seven touchdowns. His older brother carried the load last year as a senior.

But just because the older Howard graduated doesn’t mean

Jared will be alone in the backfield this season.

In fact, the talent pool is deep in the backfield as shown by this past week’s scrimmage, which the Lions won 13-0.

The offensive line will be anchored by Jack Garrett, an alldistrict guard last year.

He will be assisted on the line

by Deric Puckett, Tanner Hughes, Cody Sunday and Justin Bates.

Zach Kemp could see some time in the backfield, but with his height and strength, he could step in at tight end or wide receiver.

Last year, the Lions only allowed 16 points per game and the defense will be even more stout this season.

Steven Gerhard and Devon Wise are back after all-district honors at linebacker in 2007, while Trey Walden becomes part

2008 Kountze Schedule Aug. 29 Woodville Sept. 5 at Bridge City Sept. 12 Evadale Sept. 19 at Hull-Daisetta Sept. 26 Warren* Oct. 3 at Buna* Oct. 10 Deweyville* Oct. 17 at Hardin* Oct. 24 Anahuac* Oct. 31 at East Chambers* Nov. 7 OPEN

Lady Tiger Junior Varsity Volleyball Silsbee Junior Varsity Lady Tigers: front from left: Abriena McGrue, Jessica Gore and Sharneka Hudson. Middle from left: Janeicia Myers, Shaniqua Oliphant and Nikkeia Patterson. Back from left: Audrey Gill, Katy Adams and Coach Kelly Drake.

* District 23-2A game

of the crew at outside linebacker.

Milton Williams is a big, tough kid with a penchant for running the ball and fans will see him tote his fair share this season.

But it is on defense where he

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Jared Howard will lead the Lions’ running game this season.

was a first team all-district player last season that he will make his biggest impact.

Williams will step in at linebacker.

The defensive line is finding its footing in 2008 with a few new

faces there, though end Josh Haynes will help solidify the group with his experience.

Aubrey Walker, a quick, intense senior will step in at defensive back to help the pass defense this year.

“Support Your Tigers!

Go to the games!”

Kountze High School Varsity Football Team

Good Luck Tigers Silsbee Freshman Lady Tigers: front from left: Kaitlin Keith, Lexie Thomas, Keira Ruben, Keauna Adams and Shaunessy Barnes. Back from left: Coach Lindsay Leach, Kolbie Kruft, Janci Burns, Katelyn Alexander, Jasmine McCain and Gretchen Stancil.

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FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE, Page 37

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Silsbee Varsity Lady Tigers, front from left: Alexis Holmes, Tori Gardner and Shandral Shankle.

Middle from left: Brittany Burrell, Tanisha Harper, Caitlin Callicutt. Back from left: Coach Dana Thornton, Chastity Foster, Chelsea Neely, Beatrice Douglas, Kalynn Drake, Stacey Davis and Coach Kelly Drake.

Kountze High School Varsity Cheerleaders Members of the Aristocats dance team work out a routine during summer practice at Kountze High School.

THE SILSBEE TIGERS: VOLLEYBALL PREVIEW

2008 Lady Tigers as good a team as Silsbee has ever seen The 2008 edition of the Silsbee Lady Tigers will boast the return of seven seniors, five lettermen and three starters from a squad that finished their 2007 campaign 23-12 and 13-1 in district play, garnering them a share of the district title with Bridge City. The squad dropped a heart breaker in the area round of the playoffs to eventual state-bound Columbus.

“We are a much bigger team this season,” Thonton said. “That will bode well with our defense.

This team is going to be a lot of fun to watch, because our passing game is the best we’ve had in some while. We have a deep bench and all 11 ladies will contribute to our success.”

With 27 years of coaching

under her belt (21 of which have been at Silsbee) Thornton has coached hundreds of young ladies, and has a keen eye when it comes to evaluating talent and the utilization of it.

When asked about the outlook for the coming season Thornton pointed to some of her expected standout players. She has a quartet of seniors and a junior firsttime varsity palyer that she will look to for great things this season.

Senior Kalynn Drake will return after a season that saw her named “Outstanding Middle Blocker” in the district. With 179 kills, 380 digs and a team-leading 225 points, Drake looks to make the move to outside hitter

one of power and intensity.

Caitlin Callicut returns for her senior year as a first team all district setter for the Lady Tigers.

Her 731 assists kept the Tiger hitters supplied with ammunition, and Thornton looks for nothing less out of her senior leader this season.

We Have Kountze High School Band performs at marching contests in 2007.

See LADY TIGERS on Page 10

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Page 38, FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE

FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE, Page 7

Silsbee High School Junior Varsity Football

Kountze Freshman Lionettes: front from left: Jody Trail, Charvay Jones, Shalisha Scott, Cassandra Dominy and Chelsea Browning. Back from left: Coach Megan O’Quinn, Brittany Gallion, Jessica Colton, Betty Gore, Desiraie Tiedemann and Maegan Walters.

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Kountze Varsity Lionettes: front from left: Allison Landis, Breanna Haynes, Melanie Knighten, Kayla Allen and Kelia Pope. Back from left: Coach Megan O’Quinn, Angelia Bloodsworth, Candace Morrison, Kaila Johnson, Katie Cooksey, Lauren Deaver and Ashleigh Kelley.

LESLIE HARALSON MARGARET SMEDLEY

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Tommy Barrett David Qualls Todd McKee Chase Hamshire Stephen Tanton Daniel Smith Jonathon Mitchum Rhen Storms Rocky Biscamp Daniel Hartless Jimmy Horne Phillip Keel

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Silsbee High School Freshman Football

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Kountze Junior Varsity Lionettes: front from left: Darci Page, Kindra Clever, Morgan Mayeaux and Brittney Breaux. Back from left: Coach Megan O’Quinn, Caitlin McEachern, April Mallett.

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22-2A Kirbyville Wildcats Aug. 29 Diboll Sept. 5 @ Jasper Sept. 12 West Orange-Stark Sept. 19 Liberty Sept. 26 @ Hardin-Jefferson Oct. 3 OPEN Oct. 10 Shelbyville* Oct. 17 Hemphill* Oct. 24 @ Woodville* Oct. 31 San Augustine* Nov. 7 @ Newton* Newton Eagles Aug. 29 Corrigan-Camden Sept. 5 @ East Chambers Sept. 12 @ Diboll Sept. 19 Silsbee Sept. 26 @ Orangefield Oct. 3 OPEN Oct. 10 @ Woodville* Oct. 17 San Augustine* Oct. 24 @ Hemphill* Oct. 31 @ Shelbyville* Nov. 7 Kirbyville*

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Page 6, FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE

TIGERS Rhone, a 145 pound sophomore and Prentice Lane are all battling for playing time at the right corner position.

The Tigers face a schedule that is a little tougher than normal in non district play. They open against a Houston Davis team that finished last year at 7-3.

They did not make the playoffs but were one of the better teams in that area at the end of the season.

They have good skilled athletes, a good quarterback, a good receiver and a good running back.

Coach McGallion describes them as better than the Houston Sterling team Silsbee played last year. They have six offensive and five defensive starters returning off last years squad.

The Tigers will then host a Dibol team that finished last year at 9-2. They were bi-district finalist. They have six offensive and six defenive starters returning off that team and are expected to be much better than last year. Texas Football magazine

FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE Page 39

SOUTHEAST TEXAS FOOTBALL SCHEDULES

From Page 5 has tabbed them for second in the district behind Carthage and ahead of Jasper.

On Sept 12 the Tigers will renew their rivalry with their neighbors to the South, Lumberton.

Silsbee had dominated this series but Lumberton has reversed the trend and won the past couple of games. The two teams have not played for four years and Lumberton has gotten a lot stronger during that time period. Last year they were 11-2 and regional semi-finalist. This year they have two offensive and four defensive starters returning off last years squad.

Both Davis and Lumberton are 4A squads.

The Tigers will travel to the pinewoods for a game on Sept.

19 against Newton. The Eagles are a perennial power in class AA. Last year they finished the year with a record of 9-3. One of their victories was over the Tigers.

They have six offensive and five defensive starters returning

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21-5A Beaumont West Brook Bruins Aug. 29 Beaumont Ozen Sept. 5 Beaumont Central Sept. 12 Spring Westfield Sept. 19 @ Aldine Eisenhower Sept. 27 Katy (Sat. 5pm) Oct. 3 OPEN Oct. 10 @ Channelview* Oct. 17 Baytown Lee* Oct. 24 @ Port Arthur Memorial* Nov. 1 Baytown Sterling* (Sat. 3pm) Nov. 7 @ Galena Park North Shore* Port Arthur Memorial Titans Aug. 29 Beaumont Central Sept. 6 @ Beaumont Ozen (Sat./Babe Zaharias Stadium) Sept. 12 Aldine Nimitz Sept. 19 Houston Westbury Sept. 26 @ The Woodlands Oct. 3 OPEN Oct. 10 @ Galena Park North Shore* Oct. 17 @ Baytown Sterling* Oct. 24 Beaumont West Brook* Oct. 31 @ Channelview* Nov. 7 Baytown Lee*

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this year and are again picked to win their district.

The Tigers will have a week off and then they will host their long time rivals.... The Jasper Bulldogs. Jasper has moved out of the district this year. They are now in District 18 with Carthage, Diboll, Rusk, Center and Huntington.

Jasper has five offensive and eight defensive starters returning off a 7-5 regional semi-finalist team.

Last year they won a squeaker over the Tigers in Jasper that knocked the Tigers out of the playoffs.

The schedule led Coach McGallion to stated, “We have a formidable non district schedule. There are no easy games on the schedule.” He went on to say, “That is all right I’m the one who made the schedule and I like going up against rough teams even if it does not turn out in your favor. Every game you have a good chance of getting better.

2008 Silsbee High School Varsity and Junior Varsity Head Cheerleaders: Shae Hart, left, and Ally Tanton.

19-4A Barbers Hill Eagles Aug. 29 Port Neches-Groves Sept. 5 @ Lumberton Sept. 12 vs Longview at SFA Sept. 19 Galena Park* Sept. 26 @ C.E. King* Oct. 3 Kingwood Park* Oct. 10 @ Goose Creek Memorial* Oct. 17 Dayton* Oct. 24 @ Crosby* Oct. 31 North Forest* Nov. 7 OPEN Dayton Broncos Aug. 29 Bay City Sept. 5 @ Friendswood Sept. 12 OPEN Sept. 19 Kingwood Park* Sept. 26 @ Goose Creek Memorial* Oct. 3 North Forest* Oct. 10 Crosby* Oct. 17 @ Barbers Hill*

Oct. 24 Galena Park* Oct. 31 @ C.E. King* Nov. 7 OPEN 20-4A Beaumont Central Jaguars Aug. 29 @ Port Arthur Memorial Sept. 5 @ Beaumont West Brook Sept. 12 Galveston Ball Sept. 19 OPEN Sept. 26 Vidor* Oct. 3 @ Little CypressMauriceville* Oct. 10 @ Lumberton* Oct. 17 Nederland* Oct. 24 @ Beaumont Ozen* (Alex Durley Stadium) Oct. 31 Livingston* Nov. 7 @ Port Neches-Groves* Beaumont Ozen Panthers Aug. 29 @ Beaumont West Brook Sept. 6 Port Arthur Memorial (Sat./Babe Zaharias Stadium) Sept. 12 @ Houston Worthing Sept. 19 OPEN Sept. 26 Nederland* (Alex Durley Stadium) Oct. 3 @ Livingston* Oct. 10 Vidor* (Babe Zaharias Stadium) Oct. 17 @ Lumberton* Oct. 24 Beaumont Central* (Alex Durley Stadium) Oct. 31 Port Neches-Groves* (Alex Durley Stadium) Nov. 7 @ Little CypressMauriceville* Little Cypress-Mauriceville Bears Aug. 29 OPEN Sept. 5 @ West Orange-Stark Sept. 12 @ Bridge City Sept. 19 Cleveland Sept. 26 @ Port Neches-Groves* Oct. 3 Beaumont Central* Oct. 10 Nederland* Oct. 17 @ Livingston* Oct. 24 Vidor* Oct. 31 @ Lumberton* Nov. 7 Beaumont Ozen*

Go For A Win! 2008 Silsbee High School band directors are, from left, Todd Patterson, Carol Patterson and John Roberts.

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Livingston Lions Aug. 29 OPEN Sept. 5 @ Bellville Sept. 12 @ Conroe Caney Creek Sept. 19 Houston Washington Sept. 26 @ Lumberton* Oct. 3 Beaumont Ozen* Oct 10 @ Port Neches-Groves* Oct. 17 Little CypressMauriceville* Oct. 24 @ Nederland* Oct. 31 @ Beaumont Central* Nov. 7 Vidor* Nederland Bulldogs Aug. 29 West Orange-Stark Sept. 5 OPEN Sept. 12 @ Waller Sept. 19 Friendswood Sept. 26 @ Beaumont Ozen* (Alex Durley Stadium) Oct. 3 Port Neches-Groves* Oct. 10 @ Little CypressMauriceville* Oct. 17 @ Beaumont Central* Oct. 24 Livingston* Oct. 31 @ Vidor* Nov. 7 Lumberton* Port Neches-Groves Indians Aug. 29 @ Barbers Hill Sept. 5 @ Crosby Sept. 12 Texas City (alternate home site) Sept. 19 OPEN Sept. 26 Little CypressMauriceville* (alternate home site) Oct. 3 @ Nederland Oct. 10 Livingston* Oct. 17 @ Vidor* Oct. 24 Lumberton* Oct. 31 @ Beaumont Ozen* (Alex Durley Stadium) Nov. 7 Beaumont Central* Vidor Pirates Aug. 29 Beaumont Kelly Sept. 5 Houston St. Thomas Sept. 12 @ Hardin-Jefferson Sept. 19 OPEN Sept. 26 @ Beaumont Central* Oct. 3 Lumberton* Oct. 10 @ Beaumont Ozen* (Babe Zaharias Stadium) Oct. 17 Port Neches-Groves* Oct. 24 @ Little CypressMauriceville* Oct. 31 Nederland* Nov. 7 @ Livingston* 18-3A Jasper Bulldogs Aug. 28 Gilmer at Tyler’s Rose Stadium (Thur.)

Sept. 5 Kirbyville Sept. 12 OPEN Sept. 19 @ West Orange-Stark Sept. 26 Hamshire-Fannett Oct. 3 @ Silsbee Oct. 10 @ Diboll* Oct. 17 Huntington* Oct. 24 @ Carthage* Oct. 31 Rusk* Nov. 7 @ Center* 22-3A Cleveland Indians Aug. 29 Hardin-Jefferson Sept. 5 @ Bryan Rudder Sept. 12 Huntington Sept. 19 @ LC-Mauriceville Sept. 26 OPEN Oct. 3 Liberty* Oct. 10 @ Huffman* Oct. 17 Shepherd* Oct. 24 @ Tarkington* Oct. 31 Coldspring* Nov. 7 @ Splendora*

Shepherd Pirates Aug. 29 Magnolia West Sept. 5 vs Caldwell at Sam Houston State Sept. 12 @ Hardin Sept. 19 Woodville Sept. 26 Tarkington* Oct. 3 @ Coldspring* Oct. 10 Splendora* Oct. 17 @ Cleveland* Oct. 24 Liberty* Oct. 31 @ Huffman* Nov. 7 OPEN

Coldspring Trojans Aug. 29 Crockett Sept. 5 @ Madisonville Sept. 12 @ Corrigan-Camden Sept. 19 Diboll Sept. 26 @ Huffman* Oct. 3 Shepherd* Oct. 10 @ Tarkington* Oct. 17 OPEN Oct. 24 Splendora* Oct. 31 @ Cleveland* Nov. 7 Liberty* Huffman Falcons Aug. 29 @ Willis Sept. 5 Houston Kashmere Sept. 12 @ Santa Fe Sept. 19 @ Hamshire-Fannett Sept. 26 Coldspring* Oct. 3 @ Splendora* Oct. 10 Cleveland* Oct. 17 @ Liberty* Oct. 24 OPEN Oct. 31 Shepherd* Nov. 7 @ Tarkington*

Splendora Wildcats Aug. 29 Stafford Sept. 5 @ Needville Sept. 12 Houston Chavez Sept. 19 @ Beaumont Kelly Sept. 26 @ Liberty* Oct. 3 Huffman* Oct. 10 @ Shepherd* Oct. 17 Tarkington* Oct. 24 @ Coldspring* Oct. 31 OPEN Nov. 7 Cleveland*

Liberty Panthers Aug. 29 Bridge City Sept. 5 Hamshire-Fannett Sept. 12 Orangefield Sept. 19 @ Kirbyville Sept. 26 Splendora* Oct. 3 @ Cleveland* Oct. 10 OPEN Oct. 17 Huffman* Oct. 24 @ Shepherd* Oct. 31 Tarkington* Nov. 7 @ Coldspring*

Tarkington Longhorns Aug. 29 @ Huntington Sept. 5 Hardin Sept. 12 @ Buna Sept. 19 Orangefield Sept. 26 @ Shepherd* Oct 10 Coldspring* Oct. 17 @ Splendora* Oct. 24 Cleveland* Oct. 31 @ Liberty* Nov. 7 Huffman*

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Page 40, FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE

FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE Page 5

THE EVADALE REBELS: DISTRICT 23-A PREVIEW

Rebels, Bobcats battle it out for district title

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If there is something the Evadale Rebels understand, it’s how to win.

Right after that, they understand frustration.

For the past two years the Rebels have made the playoffs only to be ousted in the first round by Lovelady.

This year, the Rebs are solid again and the heir apparent to the District 23-A throne in 2008. In fact, it won’t even be close.

Evadale has nine offensive starters back from last year with quarterback Micah Stringer back after completing 96 passes

for 1,172 yards and nine touchdowns. His favorite target is wide receiver Garrett Landis who had 28 catches for 409 yards and five TDs. Running back Wes Massingill ran for 875 yards and 15 touchdowns on 162 carries in 2007.

On defense, the Rebs have nine starters back with linebacker Billy Nichols leading the way. Also at the linebacker spot are Terrance Wills and Chris Harvey.

Fourteen starters are back for a Hull-Daisetta team that went undefeated in district last year.

Five of those starters come in on the offensive side, including quarterback Sam Elliot who had 1,500 yards passing and 200 yards rushing. All-district running back Aaron Cook also returns.

On defense, nine starters are back with Cook leading the way.

First the West Hardin Oilers messed up Kountze’s homecoming, then came away with a playoff spot at the end of district. It was a good year for the Oilers.

They will try to repeat that success with quarterback Tyler Copeland back on offense after throwing for 600 yards and eight touchdowns last year.

Justin Doiron had 187 yards and three touchdowns rushing.

On defense, linebacker Cody Letsinger had 53 tackles last year, while defensive back Ben Miller recorded 33 tackles.

Burkeville is no stranger to success and they’ll be within striking distance of a playoff spot this year if things go well.

Six starters return on offense and give on defense with alldistrict starter Jaron Jenkins back to lead at defensive end.

Chester got whupped on last season, but ended strong with a big win over Burkeville. The Yellow Jackets are back with six offensive starters that includes quarterback Chase Franklin. On defense, Chester has four returning starters back

District 23-A Predictions 1. Evadale Rebels 2. Hull-Daisetta Bobcats 3. West Hardin Oilers 4. Burkeville Mustangs 5. Chester Yellow Jackets 6. Colmesneil Bulldogs 7. High Island Cardinals 8. Sabine Pass Sharks for 2008.

The Colmesneil Bulldogs finished 2007 without a win but success for the ‘Dogs is never very far away. Seven offensive starters return with quarterback Luke Bumstead leading the way. He had 715 yards and four touchdowns passing with 400 yards and four touchdowns rushing last season. He is joined by running back Jared Eaves who had 500 yards and three touchdowns. On defense, the Bulldogs return seven starters with Eaves and Jacob Adaway leading the attack.

In High Island, 15 starters are back from a 2-7 team. Of those, seven starters return on offense.

Quarterback Tiner George had 750 yards and eight touchdowns and also rushed for 550 yards and seven TDs. Miles Loop is his favorite aerial target.

On defense, eight starters are back, including linebacker Trey Hall, who had 99 tackles a year ago.

Sabine Pass are coming into just their third year competing in 11-man football, having collected a 4-12 record over the past two years.

Fourteen starters come back this season, including seven on offense. Drew Carlos will quarterback for the Sharks this season and Danzel Jones and Josh James will play at wide receiver.

On defense, seven starters return with end Logan Peltier leading with 45 tackles in 2007.

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TIGERS Tigers scrimmage against Beaumont Kelly.

The big task for Tiger coaches was to rebuild the offensive line.

They started by moving Shane White from defense to offense.

The 172 pound senior had a flawless performance in the first scrimmage. He was not able to play in the second scrimmage.

Early in the season the guard positions are manned by 184 pound senior John Whitmore and 195 pound senior Jazzma Sanders.

The two tackles are 250 pound senior Tarik Angelle and a move in 6’1” 240 pound Clint Evans.

Defensively there is a little more experience returning for the

From Page 4

2008 Tigers Schedule Aug. 29 at Houston Davis Sept. 5 Diboll Sept. 12 Lumberton Sept. 19 at Newton Sept. 26 OPEN Oct. 3 Jasper Oct. 10 at WOrange-Stark* Oct. 17 at Bridge City* Oct. 24 Orangefield* Oct. 31 at Hamshire-Fannett* Nov. 7 Hardin-Jefferson* * District 21-3A game

team, Patrick Steed a 263 pound senior anchors the line at one defensive tackle position. The other

will be manned by Eric Wilder a 197 pound senior.

Josh Skinner, a 6’4” 218 pound senior who is headed for Rice University mans one of the defensive end positions and the other will be manned by Levell Hawkins a 179 pound senior.

Skinner is the returning defensive leader. Last year he recorded 70 tackles and four sacks and was an all district selection.

One linebacker position will be manned by LaTarron Barnes, a 190 pound senior who started last year.

A hot battle is going on at the other linebacking position with Jacob Keefer, a Freshman, Caleb Henry a 165 pound sophomore and Rakheem Bolton a 170 pound senior all in the mix.

Three of the four players in the secondary have seen a lot of action. Josh James a 160 pound senior started last year. He will play the strong safety position.

Chris Castle, a returning starter will man the safety position and Chris Barnes who also saw a lot of action last year will man the left corner position. Jorian Turk, a 140 pound senior, Jarian See TIGERS on Page 6

The Tigers defense will be a key factor in how many games Silsbee wins this season. A district title could easily hinge on how SHS stops its opponents in 2008

High-flying aerial attacks will be the norm for Silsbee in 2008 with a strong receiving corps ready to haul in the big receptions as the season progresses.

Page 4, FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE

FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE Page 41

THE SILSBEE TIGERS: FOOTBALL PREVIEW

THE EVADALE REBELS: FOOTBALL PREVIEW

Smaller team, bigger dreams Rebels would love to get back to Class A playoffs Heart shores of lack of size for Tigers in 2008 In the past, Silsbee High School has fielded football teams that featured big bulky lineman.

This year the team will have a little different look. There is not a single returning starter on the offensive line and though some of the lineman are still pretty big the overall look of the team is much smaller.

However a host of players return at the skill positions and this promises to be one of the fastest teams in years.

The big question will be if the line can block well enough for Coach Bobby McGallion’s team to operate effectively out of his spread offense.

The key to the offensive effort is Jeremy Johnson, The 165 pound junior had great success for the team as a starter in 2007.

He is the leading rusher returning on the team and also passed for 1675 yards.

Johnson can break the field open when he rolls out to pass.

He becomes as serious a threat to run as anyone in the backfield.

Last year he carried the ball 110 times for 621 yards. He completed 95 of 125 passes for 1675 yards.He was named as the newcomer of the year in the district.

Both of the Tigers running backs return form 2007. Chris Barnes a 148 pound junior carried 82 times for 504 yards.

Chris Castle a 175 pound senior lugged the ball 91 times for 587 yards. He was a first team all district performer in 2007.

Castle is a multi-threat player.

He will line up in a running back position but also may come to the line in anyone of several positions as a receiver.

There is no love loss for Lovelady in Evadale.

The Rebels took to the preseason with the idea that every step, every practice, every game — non-district or district — is a chance to get a bit closer to a rematch with Lovelady, the team that has kicked the Rebs out of the playoffs the past two years.

“Sure, we’re looking forward to a chance at that,” said Mark Williams, Evadale’s head football coach and athletic director.

“The kids would like another opportunity to show what they can do against those guys.

They’re a good team, but we believe we’re a good team too.”

“Good” might be an understatement for the Rebels this season as they return a full stable of seniors with years of experience under their belts.

Nine returning starters grace

the defensive side of the ball with eight of those seniors.

Leading the attack is Wes Massingill who returns after an all-district performance in 2007.

Playing safety last year, Massingill will move to outside linebacker this season.

Other seniors back on defense this year are Terrance Willis at linebacker, John Jones at tackle, Justin Crain in the secondary, Garth Baumann at nose guard, Mitchell Freeman at safety, and Justin Royal and Garrett Landis both playing in the secondary.

Billy Nichols, a sophomore, returns after earning some starts this past season, playing at the outside linebacker position.

Sophomores Tyler Tucker and Chris Harvey will play at tackle and inside linebacker, while junior Shelby Stanley plays linebacker this season.

Bee photo by Brent Guidry/www.bgphoto.org

The Silsbee Tigers will count on a swarming defense to make their way through a tough 3A district that includes West Orange-Stark, a team that has not lost a district game since dropping from Class 4A to 3A several seasons ago.

Last year he caught 30 passes for 413 yards.

Josh James a 160 pound senior and Rakheem Bolton, a 170 pound junior both saw some action in the offensive backfield last year and both figure to be active during the games this year.

Last year the Tigers graduated two time first team all district wide receiver Donovan Harris but they have a host of good receivers returning.

Chris Rountree, a 155 pound senior saw the most action last year of

any of them.

Prentice Lane, Chase Kelly and Pheal Hill all are pretty strong receivers.

Lane is a 153 pound sophomore, Hill is a 146 pound junior and Kelly is a 150 pound junior.

They have been joined by a senior who has been a star on the basketball court. The Tigers outstanding point guard, Shannon Robinson has put on the football pads. The 150 pound senior caught a number of passes in the See TIGERS on Page 5

An Evadale ball carrier is brought down by a crew of Warren defenders during a recent scrimmage between the teams.

1230 Hwy 96 South • Silsbee wphillips3@farmersagent.com

2008 Rebels Schedule Aug. 29 OPEN Sept. 5 Deweyville Sept. 12 at Kountze Sept. 19 at Beaumont Legacy Sept. 26 Sabine Pass* Oct. 3 at Hull-Daisetta* Oct. 10 Burkeville* Oct. 17 at High Island* Oct. 24 West Hardin* Oct. 31 Chester* Nov. 7 at Colmesneil* * District 21-3A game

On offense, Massingill was the horse, collecting 875 yards and 15 touchdowns on 162 carries while adding 257 yards on 24 pass receptions.

He was helped out by Freeman who collected 142 yards rushing on 26 carries in only three or four game appearances. Crain, who broke his leg last year, is expected to impact the offense big-time this season after collecting 185 yards on 48 carries in limited game time in 2007.

Nichols also got a hand on the ball with 25 carries for 134 yards last season, and is expected to make a bigger impact on this year’s squad.

The quarterback job is settled with Micah Stringer returning after collecting 1,172 yards, hitting 96 of 181 pass attempts with nine touchdowns and nine interceptions in 2007.

The offensive line is led by seniors Chance Burnett and Garth Baumann with John Jones

rounding out the returning talent.

Among the receiving corps, Justing Royal is back after collecting 230 yards on 16 catches, while teammage Landis had 409 yards and five touchdowns on 28 catches.

Hayden Dubose will likely start at the tight end position as a junior.

The kicking jobs will go to sophomore Josh Swift who will be the place kicker and Massingill who will punt.

Rebels fans will see their home team run out of a multiple formation set with about 60 percent of the snaps from scrimmage going to the running game.

The Rebs showed during a recent scrimmage in Warren that they are more than capable of throwing the ball and should be able to challenge most any defensive secondary they face.

Though Coach Williams admits that playing in an eight-

team district is a tough challenge, he also understands that all of his league foes must face that same daunting task.

“We’re all in the same boat,” he said. “We each get three nondistrict games and then we’re right in the middle of the games that matter the most.

“I’m hoping that with the experience we have that we will be ready to play right away. But until you get onto the field, it’s hard to know exactly what’s going to happen.”

The Rebels won’t get that chance to prove themselves until the first week of September as they spend Week 0 at home during an open week.

Evadale opens at home against 2A Deweyville, then travels to Kountze for a tough battle in the Lions Den. The Rebels’ final non-district game will be at Beaumont Legacy before league play starts vs. Sabine Pass.

Page 42, FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE

FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE Page 3

THE EVADALE REBELS: VOLLEYBALL PREVIEW

THE SILSBEE BEE FALL SPORTS PREVIEW

Big group shares big hopes for success in 2008 Area teams look to win titles for 2008 season If you cross the Neches River headed north toward Buna, Kirbyville and Jasper, don’t miss out on the opportunity to see some great District 23-A volleyball action at the Evadale Rebel Gymnasium.

Returning Coach Debbie Hollyfield is excited to be back in the blue and yellow confines

and is looking for a great season from her record number of volleyball players.

“We had 31 girls come out at the varsity, junior varsity and freshman levels,” Hollyfield smiled. “There aren’t many 1-A schools that have that kind of turn out. It speaks well for the tradition that Lady Rebel volley-

ball, and the brightness of it’s future. Out of those 31 young ladies, we still have 26 here.

They are serious about doing well this season.”

The Lady Rebels are returning six seniors and six lettermen (four of which were starters in ’07) from an experienced squad that tied for the district title last

year. By way of a coin toss, The Lady Rebels were relegated to the third playoff spot and were knocked out in the area round by their long-time nemesis, Iola.

“Megan Toms is the heart of the Lady Rebel machine,” Hollyfield said of her senior Most Valuable Player in District 23-A. “Megan is the best setter in our district,” Hollyfield continued. “In my opinion, she’s one of

the best in this region. Our success will hinge greatly upon the play of this young lady.”

Hollyfield had great praise for her outside hitters, Kristin Gregory and her identical twin sister Carolyn Gregory. After a 2007 season that saw the twin towers receive second team all district honors, the pair is looking to have a senior campaign that See LADY REBS on Page 43

It’s not often that everything good happens all at the same time.

But that’s the theme of the 2008 fall sports season for the four schools in The Silsbee Bee coverage area.

Of the four football teams, three are picked to win district.

The fourth team, with the right amount of luck, could pull off the upset and get that elusive district title under its belt.

Of the volleyball teams, three of the four are title contenders with the fourth team just a spike or two away from a possible playoff trip.

It’s going to be a good season for sports in Hardin County.

Silsbee

Evadale Varsity Lady Rebels include, front from left: Lona Nichols, Lauren Anders, Megan Toms and Shelbie Jordan (manager). Back from left: Coach Tasha McAdams, Carolyn Gregory, Kayla Conner, Marenda Block, Carly Smith, Bailey Gravis and Coach Debbie Hollyfield.

Evadale Freshman Lady Rebels include, front from left: Jessica Costlow, Kathryn Reeves, Ashle Shows, Holly Herrington and Shelbie Jordan (manager). Back from left: Coach Tasha McAdams, Holly Stringer, Hope Richardson, Brooke Tanton, Brianne Doyen and Coach Debbie Hollyfield.

Evadale Junior Varsity Lady Rebels include, front from left: Ashton Clark, Kathryn Reeves, Megan Anders, Daniella Linscomb and Shelbie Jordan (manager). Back from left: Coach Tasha McAdams, Shaneigh Nichols, Kacy Jones, Kayla Peevey, Haleigh Conner, Shalee Lewing and Coach Debbie Hollyfield.

Good Luck Evadale Rebels!!

The Tigers football team has shown steady improvement through its first two scrimmages and appears to be on its way to overcoming a late-season struggle in 2007.

The Tigers missed the playoffs for the first time in several years in 2007, but look to return to the postseason this year with a strong group of returning starters and a revived sense of excitement and optimism within the program.

On the volleyball court, the Lady Tigers have already shown they are the real deal.

In the opening tournament of the season, the Lady Tigers won the Vidor get-together, taking three all-tournament selections and the Most Valuable Player award with it.

More recently, the Silsbee girls placed second in the LaPorte Tournament, beating out a group of Class 5A schools en route to an impressive finish.

Watch for the Tigers cross country teams to do well this year too.

The Kountze Lions will count on a balanced game between its offense and defense to dominate opponents during the upcoming 2008 football season.

with another run at the league title.

This season’s onslaught will come thanks to a solid group of returning starters who know how to win.

In recent scrimmages, the Rebels have dominated on both offense and defense, giving Class 2A Warren all it could handle during a recent get-together.

The Lady Rebels volleyball team is on the verge of breaking out in 2008 thanks to the momentum they created in 2007.

Bee photo

by Michael Dickert

Lumberton The Raiders made school history last season with the team’s first-ever trip to the playoffs.

It was an exciting ride that culminated in a victory over La Marque, the defending 4A state champion.

But for this year’s squad, the 2007 season is a distant memory of good times.

The goal now is to be the best team possible with the personnel available today.

That team could well find its way to a district title in spite of a limited group of returning starters back on the roster.

The Lady Raiders are looking to make a quick impact this year with a strong core returning from this past season.

In a tough Class 4A district, every bit of luck helps. But these Lady Raiders seem to be able to control their own luck thanks to talent and experience.

Kountze The Lions football team was a breath away from going to the Class 2A state playoffs.

This year, Kountze will realize its goals with not only a trip to the postseason, but a district championship to boot.

The Lions beat East Chambers 14-13 last season to prove just how good they really were and this year, they’ll dominate as they run through district to that elusive district title.

Much of the success the Lions will likely see this season hinges on its defense and a muchimproved offense from last season.

The Lions won many of their games in 2007 thanks to the defense.

The Lionettes are back to their old tricks this season, winning early and often as they rocket toward their district schedule.

The Lionettes are always strong and this year is no exception.

Look for the Kountze girls to challenge for the district title yet again behind a strong group of upperclassmen who know nothing more than how to win.

Lay-a-ways 970 N 5th St

Fall Sports 2008 The Fall Sports 2008 Special Section is a product of The Silsbee Bee. Stories and photos were produced by Danny Reneau, Gerry L. Dickert, Dwayne Davis, Brent Guidry and Michael Dickert.

Special thanks goes to Buffy Miller of Provine Photography for her assistance in collecting many of the photographs in this section.

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Evadale District championships have become a thing of habit for the Rebels football team.

For years now, the Rebs have rolled through their Class A district to claim some of the top honors available, both as a team and for players individually.

In 2008, they will follow suit

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SILSBEE FOOTBALL DATE DATE

OPPONENT OPPONENT

SITE SITE

8/29 9/00 9/05 9/00 9/12 9/00 9/19 9/00 9/26 9/00 10/03 9/00 10/10 10/00 10/17 10/00 10/24 10/00 10/31 10/00 11/07 10/00

Houston-Davis Name Team Diboll Name Team Lumberton Name Team Newton Name Team OPEN Name Team Jasper Name Team W.O.-S. Name Team BridgeTeam City Name Orangefield Name Team Hamshire-Fannett Name Team Hardin-Jefferson Name Team

A H H A H H A A

FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE, Page 43

LUMBERTON FOOTBALL

A H H A H A H H A A H H A

10/00 Name Team H 11/00 Name Team A 11/00 Name Team LADY TIGERS AA 11/00 Name Team DATE OPPONENT SITE 11/00 Name Team H 11/00 Name Team A 8/29 Kountze@Ozen 11/00 Name Team H 8/28-30 Ozen Tournament A 9/02 West Brook H Name Sponsor 9/04-06 Dickinson Tourn.

A 9/09 Jasper A 9/12 L.C.M H 9/11-13 L.C.M. Tourn.

A 9/16 Liberty A 9/19 Kirbyville A 9/18-20 P.N.G. Tourn.

A 9/23 Hardin-Jefferson H 9/30 Bridge City H 10/03 Hamshire-Fannett H 10/07 Orangefield A 10/10 W.O.-S. A 10/14 Hardin-Jefferson A 10/17 Bridge City A 10/21 Hamshire-Fannett A 10/24 Orangefield H 10/28 W.O.-S. H

DATE

8/29 9/05 9/12 9/19 9/26 10/03 10/10 1017 10/24 10/31 11/07

OPPONENT

SITE

Hamshire-Fannett Barbers Hill Silsbee OPEN Livingston Vidor Beaumont Central Beaumont Ozen P.N.G L.C.M Nederland

A H A H A H H A H A

KOUNTZE FOOTBALL DATE

8/29 9/05 9/12 9/19 9/26 10/03 10/10 10/17 10/24 10/31 11/07

LADY RAIDERS DATE

OPPONENT

8/28-30 Ham. Fann. Tourn.

8/29 Splendora 9/02 Livingston 9/04-06 @ YMBL Tourn 9/05 Crosby 9/09 Vidor 9/11-13 L.C.M Tourn.

9/16 Central 9/19 Ozen 9/23 P.N.G 9/26 L.C.M 9/30 Nederland 10/03 Livingston 10/07 Vidor 10/10 Central 10/14 Ozen 10/17 P.N.G. 10/21 L.C.M. 10/24 Nederland

OPPONENT

SITE

Woodville Bridge City Evadale Hull-Daisetta Warren Buna Deweyville Hardin Anahuac East Chambers OPEN

H A H A H A H A H A

LIONETTES SITE

DATE

OPPONENT

SITE

A A H A A A A H H A H A A H A A H A H

8/29 8/29-30 9/02 9/04-06 9/5 9/9 9/11-13 9/12 9/16 9/19 9/23 9/26 9/30 10/03 10/07 10/10 10/14 10/17 10/21 10/24

Silsbee Deweyville Tourn.

West Hardin YMBL Tourn.

W.O.-S. Splendora West Hardin Tour Buna Deweyville Hardin East Chambers Warren Anahuac Buna BYE Deweyville Warren Hardin East Chambers Anahuac

A A H A H A A H A H A H A A

Good Luck Area Sports Teams!

H A A H H

Southeast Texas Football Schedules

LADY REBS

22-2A Woodville Eagles Aug. 29 @ Kountze Sept. 5 Hardin-Jefferson Sept. 12 @ Warren Sept. 19 @ Shepherd Sept. 26 Corrigan-Camden Oct. 3 OPEN Oct. 10 Newton* Oct. 17 @ Shelbyville* Oct. 24 Kirbyville* Oct. 31 Hemphill* Nov. 7 @ San Augustine* 23-2A Anahuac Panthers Aug. 29 Houston Kinkaid Sept. 5 @ Danbury Sept. 12 Concordia Lutheran Sept. 19 @ Hitchcock Sept. 26 Deweyville* Oct. 3 @ Hardin* Oct. 10 OPEN Oct. 17 East Chambers* Oct. 24 @ Kountze* Oct. 31 Warren* Nov. 7 @ Buna* Buna Cougars Aug. 29 Trinity Sept. 5 @ Orangefield Sept. 12 Tarkington Sept. 19 @ Bridge City Sept. 26 @ East Chambers* Oct. 3 Kountze* Oct. 10 @ Warren* Oct. 17 OPEN Oct. 24 Deweyville* Oct. 31 @ Hardin* Nov. 7 Anahuac* Deweyville Pirates Aug. 29 @ Sabine Pass Sept. 5 @ Evadale Sept. 12 Hemphill Sept. 19 West Sabine Sept. 26 @ Anahuac* Oct. 3 East Chambers* Oct. 10 @ Kountze* Oct. 17 Warren* Oct. 24 @ Buna* Oct. 31 OPEN Nov. 7 Hardin* East Chambers Buccaneers Aug. 29 @ Orangefield Sept. 5 Newton Sept. 12 Hamshire-Fannett Sept. 19 @ Hardin-Jefferson Sept. 26 Buna* Oct. 3 @ Deweyville* Oct. 10 Hardin* Oct. 17 @ Anahuac* Oct. 24 OPEN Oct. 31 Kountze* Nov. 7 @ Warren*

will take them and their teammates to the next level.

“We always have our sights set on the district crown,” Hollyfield said. “We are senior loaded this season and we have a great core group still in place. I couln’t ask for a better situation to come back to Evadale than this.”

Hollyfield admitted that with the combining of two 1-A districts to form the new eight team district that includes Evadale, Goodrich, Burkeville, Colmesneil, Spurger, Sabine Pass, West Hardin and Hull Daisetta, it will take an all out effort everytime the Lady Rebs take the court.

“We prepare for our district matches by playing a pretty difficult pre-season schedule,“

From Section 1, Page 1 Hollyfield said. “We like to take on the bigger hitters and better servers in the area, so we can be more savy and ready for our district competitors.”

Lady Rebel seniors include: Lauren Anders and Lona Nichols (defensive specialists), and Marenda Block (middle blocker).

The rest of the lady Rebel squad consists of juniors: Bailey Gravis, Kayla Conner and Ariel Wills (outside hitters) and Carly Smith at the middle blocker position.

2008 Lady Rebels Volleyball Schedule Aug. 29 at Deweyville Sept. 2 at Warren Sept. 4-6 at Woodville Tourn.

Sept. 5 vs. Deweyville Sept. 9 vs. Kirbyville Sept. 11-13 at West Hardin JV Tourn.

Sept. 12 vs. Goodrich Sept. 16 at Burkeville

Read Rebels sports reports each week online at www.silsbeebee.com

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Sept. 19 at Colmesneil Sept. 23 vs. Spurger Sept. 26 vs. Sabine Pass Sept. 30 at West Hardin Oct. 3 at Hull Daisetta Oct. 7 at Goodrich Oct. 10 vs. Burkeville Oct. 14 vs. Colmesneil Oct. 17 at Spurger Oct. 21 at Sabine Pass Oct. 24 vs. West Hardin Oct. 28 vs. Hull Daisetta

Danny, Janet, Debbie, Gerry, Leah, Dwayne, Eric, Ryan, Sarah, Jessie, and Bobby

Good Luck To all Area Football Teams

Page 44, FALL SPORTS SUPPLEMENT to THE SILSBEE BEE

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