FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
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DECATUR, ILLINOIS
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FOOTBALL 2015
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FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
INDEX
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CONFERENCE BREAKDOWNS:
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CENTRAL STATE EIGHT . . . . . . . 3 (Eisenhower, Lincoln, MacArthur) CENTRAL ILLINOIS CONF. . . . . 4,5 (Central A&M, Clinton, Meridian, St. Teresa, Shelbyville, Sulliva-Okaw Valley, Tuscola, Warrensburg-Latham) APOLLO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 (Charleston, Effingham, Mattoon, Mount Zion, Taylorville) OKAW VALLEY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 (Maroa-Forsyth, Monticello) LITTLE OKAW VALLEY . . . . . . 8, 9 (Arcola, Argenta-Oreana, ArthurLovington-Atwood-Hammond, Cerro Gordo-Bement, Cumberland, LSA,
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Oblong, Sangamon Valley) LITTLE ILLINI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 (Casey-Westfield, Flora, Newton, Olney, Robinson) PRAIRIE STATE . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 (Nokomis) SOUTH CENTRAL . . . . . . . . . . . 12 (Pana, Vandalia)
TOP PLAYERS:
Quarterbacks Running backs Receivers . . . Defenders . . . Linemen . . . .
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13 14 15 16 16
Past winners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
ROAD TRIP Week 1 MacArthur at Chatham Glenwood
Valley at Momence; Cerro Gordo-Bement at Cumberland
The Generals burst into the Central State Eight with an emotional overtime win against one of the storied programs in the Titans. Most from that MacArthur group have since graduated however, and Glenwood brings in a new sophomore quarterback in Cole Hembrough who should help the Titans balance the run and pass this season. MacArthur brings in its own sophomore quarterback in Amir Brummett, who gives the Generals a respectable passing game to go along with a speedy running game. The return of some of the basketball team boosts the athleticism and depth as well. OTHER GAMES TO WATCH: Tuscola at Westville; Mahomet-Seymour at Mount Zion; Tri-County at Cerro Gordo-Bement; Rochester at Eisenhower
Week 4 Monticello at Tolono Unity
Week 2 Newton at Casey-Westfield Both Little Illini teams have skill players returning, but this game will likely be won by which inexperienced line jells the most through one week of the season. Newton hasn’t come within two touchdowns of Casey in its three years in the Little Illini, but this year’s Eagles team is looking for its best season since coach Jason Fulton’s first season in 2007. OTHER GAMES TO WATCH: Maroa-Forsyth at St. Teresa; Vandalia at Carlinville; Arcola at Cumberland
Week 3 MacArthur at Eisenhower It’s been 10 straight wins for the Generals, but this will be one of the few years where the Panthers have more players returning from the previous year than MacArthur. This Eisenhower team would love nothing more than to finally knock off the Generals, especially after getting blow off the field last year, 53-14. And there’s no reason to miss this game — it’s one of the few Saturday games in the area this year. OTHER GAMES TO WATCH: Mattoon at Highland; Shelbyville at Clinton; Sangamon
There wasn’t a better game played in the area last year, or maybe even the state. And the beauty is that the two players who put up record-setting performances in that game for the Sages — quarterback Brandon Wildman and receiver Noah Freemon — are back. Freemon, who had a total of 130 yards receiving in his high school career to that point, put up the second-most receiving yards ever recorded in an Illinois high school game (337). Wildman passed for 587 yards — the fourth-most in state history. Both were H&R-area records. But it wasn’t just the stats. The game swung wildly back and forth, with Unity leading 21-8 in the second quarter, then 41-24 in the fourth quarter. Monticello’s defense didn’t exactly stop Unity from there, but it did enough with the offense exploding to put up a 58-55 win over thenClass 3A No. 2-ranked Unity. OTHER GAMES TO WATCH: Mount Zion at Mattoon; Tuscola at Shelbyville; Carlinville at Pana; Cerro Gordo-Bement at LSA
Week 5 Mount Zion at Taylorville Taylorville’s big offensive line dominated last year’s game, but Mount Zion put a scare in the Tornadoes and nearly handed them their first loss thanks to a hook-and-ladder touchdown and an onside kick recovery that was later nullifed when the officials ruled Taylorville had called a timeout before the play. It’ll be a much different look with two of last year’s best quarterbacks — Taylorville’s Tanner Champley and Mount Zion’s Payton Grinestaff — out of the picture. But both teams are still expected to compete for the Apollo title. Though this is an early season Apollo games, it could be the most important one in determining the conference champion. OTHER GAMES TO WATCH: Casey-Westfield
ence and this game shouldn’t disappoint. Nick Bates comes in as one of the best, not just quarterbacks, but players in the area and his counterpart Ryan Fyke showed dramatic improvement as the season went along last year. This game may be the difference of who gets the No. 1 seed in 1A, and who has to fight through a slightly tougher schedule. OTHER GAMES TO WATCH: Arcola at Sangamon Valley; Shelbyville at Sullivan-Okaw Valley; Maroa-Forsyth vs. St. JosephOgden;
Week 8 Arcola at Cerro Gordo-Bement at Lawrenceville; Jacksonville at Eisenhower; Sangamon Valley at Cerro GordoBement; Tolono Unity at Maroa-Forsyth; St. Joseph-Ogden at Monticello
Week 6 Lanphier at Eisenhower It’s been 11 years since both teams made the playoffs, but there’s real hope for both teams this season. Lanphier returns a massive and solid line that the Lions will be able to lean on in pushing for those five wins. For the Panthers, this game is one on the list of the near misses last year. Lanphier rallied for 15 points in the fourth quarter to steal the win, and you can bet Eisenhower hasn’t forgotten that. For both teams with playoff aspirations, though, this could be a momentum boost into the last third of the season. OTHER GAMES TO WATCH: Maroa-Forsyth at Monticello; Effingham at Taylorville; Sullivan-Okaw Valley at St. Teresa; Warrensburg-Latham at Central A&M;
Week 7 St. Teresa at Tuscola The Bulldogs pulled off one of the signature comebacks last year against the Warriors, but it did come with Nick Bates hobbled on the sidelines in the second half. The two teams come as the heavy favorites in the Central Illinois Confer-
This will be the second of back-to-back games the Purple Riders will play near Decatur, and this one could be to finish off a second straight undefeated run through the Little Okaw Valley Northwest. But the Broncos won’t let it be easy. Their lines on both sides of the ball can match up with Arcola. Containing the Riders’ speed may be another story. OTHER GAMES TO WATCH: MacArthur at Rochester; Effingham at Mount Zion; St. Teresa at Shelbyville; Arcola at Cerro Gordo-Bement; Marshall at Casey-Westfield; Pana at Vandalia; Olney at Newton
Week 9 Hillsboro at Pana This one usually means something. In the previous two seasons, each team came into the game 4-4. Pana won in 2013; Hillsboro won last year. The year before that, Pana needed a fifth win to make the playoffs and got it in Week 9 against the Hilltoppers. This year, Pana is hoping to have already wrapped up a playoff spot come Week 9. But Hillsboro could once again be on the bubble and needing one more win to make back-to-back trips to the postseason. OTHER GAMES TO WATCH: Shelbyville at Central A&M; Casey-Westfield at Olney; Warrensburg-Latham at St. Teresa; Sullivan-Okaw Valley at Clinton
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FOOTBALL 2015
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CENTRAL STATE 8 CONFERENCE ability to overwhelm several conference teams.
Breakdown Preseason Poll Springfield Sacred Heart-Griffin Rochester Jacksonville Chatham Glenwood Springfield Southeast Springfield Lanphier Eisenhower Springfield MacArthur Lincoln Last year SH-Griffin Rochester Glenwood MacArthur Southeast Jacksonville Lanphier Eisenhower Springfield Lincoln
9-0 7-2 6-3 6-3 5-4 4-5 4-5 2-7 2-7 0-9
14-0 12-2 7-4 6-4 5-5 4-5 4-5 2-7 2-7 0-9
Games to watch Aug. 28 – MacArthur at Chatham Glenwood Sept. 12 – MacArthur at Eisenhower Oct. 9 – Rochester at Jacksonville Oct. 23 – Chatham Glenwood at Jacksonville Oct. 23 – Springfield Sacred Heart-Griffin at Rochester Top players Offense: Dan Zeigler, QB, Rochester Defense: D.J. Mackey, LB, Springfield Sacred Heart-Griffin Random fact Since 2000, Springfield Sacred Heart-Griffin has won 14 of the 15 conference titles. In that time, the Cyclones are 109-2 in CS8 play, though one of those wins was by forfeit after a Rochester win against SHG was overturned in 2013.
Schedule Aug. 28 — Rochester Sep. 4 — at Springfield Sacred HeartGriffin Sep. 12 — MacArthur Sep. 18 — at Lincoln Sep. 25 — Jacksonville Oct. 2 — Lanphier Oct. 9 — at Springfield Southeast Oct. 16 — Chatham Glenwood Oct. 23 — at Springfield
Lincoln High School
Cayleb Dehority threw for more than 1,000 yards a year ago.
Eisenhower Panthers COACH: Drew Wagers (3rd year, 3-15) ENROLLMENT: 1,041 LAST YEAR’S RECORD: 2-7 PLAYERS TO WATCH: Colton Lockwood, Sr., WR; Cayleb Dehority, Jr., QB; Salat AlNurridin, Jr., RB; Bryson Bonds, Jr., LB; Kendall Dehority, Sr., LB OUTLOOK: Last year’s two wins were the most since 2004, but the Panthers were competitive in several losses, too – something they hadn’t been in a long time. With much of last year’s team back, including a dangerous quarterback-to-receiver combination in Dehority to Lockwood, Eisenhower could be a surprise contender for a playoff spot if the rest of the team develops around them. Weeks one and two remain daunting — the Panthers open with Rochester and SHG. Last year’s team came through those games intact mentally and physically. If they can do the same this year and eliminate the type of mistakes that have haunted Eisenhower the past decade — an area of improvement last year but still a problem at times — the Panthers have the athletic
COACH: Seth Bass (1st year) ENROLLMENT: 860 LAST YEAR’S RECORD: 0-9 PLAYERS TO WATCH: Garrett Aeilts, Sr., QB; Sage Conrady, Sr., OL/DL; Alex Linares, Jr., DL; Seth Gleason, DL, Sr OUTLOOK: Bass has the enthusiasm to end the Railers’ struggles, but it’s going to take him a couple years to develop the type of players he’ll need to compete in the CS8, and low numbers at the younger levels presents a challenge. Aeilts returns as starting quarterback for the Railers with Conrady among those trying to protect him against the stout defensive fronts of the CS8.
Schedule Aug. 28 — at Springfield Southeast Sep. 4 — Chatham Glenwood Sep. 12 — at Springfield Sep. 18 — Eisenhower Sep. 25 — at Springfield Sacred HeartGriffin Oct. 2 — Rochester Oct. 9 — at MacArthur Oct. 16 — Jacksonville Oct. 22 — at Springfield Lanphier
MacArthur Generals COACH: Derek Spates (8th year, 36-34 record) ENROLLMENT: 1,073 LAST YEAR’S RECORD: 6-4, lost 40-24 to Peoria in 5A first round PLAYERS TO WATCH: Drake Reed, Sr., DL;
Sophmore Amir Brummett has drawn praise this summer. Jamar Jones, Sr., DB/WR; T.J. Griffey, Sr., OL/LB; Amir Brummett, So., QB; Keeshon Sayles, Sr., RB/DB; Adam Macke, Sr., C/DL OUTLOOK: Few teams in the area were hit harder by graduation than MacArthur. Last year’s senior class got the Generals off to a good start in the Central State 8, but this year’s team is low on both experience and numbers. There’s still athleticism, but line play is a concern. Brummett and several of his freshman and sophomore teammates have the potential to be star players, but they’ll have to grow up fast if the Generals are going to experience success this year.
Schedule Aug. 28 — at Chatham Glenwood Sep. 4 — Springfield Lanphier Sep. 12 — at Eisenhower Sep. 18 — Springfield Sacred Heart-Griffin Sep. 25 — at Springfield Oct. 2 — at Jacksonville Oct. 9 — Lincoln Oct. 16 — at Rochester Oct. 23 — Springfield Southeast
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FOOTBALL 2015
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FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
CENTRAL ILLINOIS CONFERENCE Central A&M Raiders
gain expererience and, if they can get an increase in numbers next year, could become a CIC contender in 2016.
COACH: Brent Weakly (1st year) ENROLLMENT: 245 LAST YEAR’S RECORD: 0-9 PLAYERS TO WATCH: Keaton Garner, Jr., QB; Brock Burgener, Sr., OL OUTLOOK: Weakly is a return to tradition at A&M — he played for the Raiders under former coach Mark Ramsey and coached with Ramsey at Shelbyville. Weakly will try to re-establish the toughness that made the Raiders an elite program under Ramsey while also installing a quarterback-friendly offense that should help Garner in his second year as starter. Schedule Aug 29 — at Milford (2 p.m.) Sep 5 — Big Rock Crossroads Academy (2 p.m) Sep 11 — at St. Teresa Sep 18 — Clinton Sep 25 — at Tuscola Oct 2 — Warrensburg-Latham Oct 9 — Meridian Oct 16 — at Sullivan-Okaw Valley Oct 23 — Shelbyville
Clinton Maroons COACH: John Hayden (16th year, sixth at Clinton, 55-102 record) ENROLLMENT: 592 LAST YEAR’S RECORD: 3-6 PLAYERS TO WATCH: Alec Cooley, Jr., RB/LB; Tyler Vidmar, Sr., WR/DB;
Breakdown Preseason Poll Tuscola St. Teresa Sullivan-Okaw Valley Shelbyville Clinton Warrensburg-Latham Central A&M Meridian Last year St. Teresa Sullivan Tuscola Shelbyville Warrensburg-Latham Clinton Meridian Central A&M
6-1 6-1 5-2 5-2 3-4 2-5 1-6 0-7
7-3 8-2 10-3 7-3 4-5 3-6 2-7 0-9
Games to watch Sept. 4 -- Maroa-Forsyth at St. Teresa Sept. 11 – Shelbyville at Clinton Sept. 18 --Tuscola at Shelbyville Oct. 9 – St. Teresa at Tuscola Oct. 23 -- Shelbyville at Central A&M Top players Offense: Nick Bates, QB, Tuscola Defense: Dalace Ray, DE, Sullivan-Okaw Valley Random fact Central A&M is coming off two straight losing seasons. A&M has never had three straight losing seasons. Neither Moweaqua nor Assumption have seen three straight losing seasons since Assumption went 1-26 from 1981-83.
Schedule Aug 28 — at Maroa-Forsyth Sep 4 — Bunker Hill Sep 11 — at Warrensburg-Latham Sep 18 — St. Teresa Sep 25 — Sullivan-Okaw Valley Oct 2 — at Shelbyville Oct 9 — at Central A&M Oct 16 — Clinton Oct 23 — at Tuscola
St. Teresa Bulldogs
Noah Griffin is expected to take over as quarterback at Clinton. Chris Schwarts, Sr., FB; Noah Griffin, Jr., QB; Sam Nagy, Sr., OL/DL; John Shobe, Sr., OL/DL; Tanner White, Sr., WR OUTLOOK: Clinton is aiming for its first playoff berth since 2004, and the Maroons are coming off their best season in six years. With a young core returning and a conference that looks up for grabs after the top two spots, there’s a good reason to be excited. Cooley, who can get to the outside or find gaps in the line, has the talent to emerge as a capable lead back. Griffin and White took turns at QB last year. This year Griffin will start with White playing receiver. Schedule Aug 28 — at Flanagan-Cornell-Woodland Sep 4 — Fithian Oakwood Sep 11 — Shelbyville Sep 18 — at Central A&M Sep 25 — at St. Teresa Oct 2 — Tuscola Oct 9 — Warrensburg-Latham Oct 16 — at Meridian Oct 23 — Sullivan-Okaw Valley
Meridian Hawks COACH: Scott Davis (35th year, third at Meridian, 236-106 career record) ENROLLMENT: 312 LAST YEAR’S RECORD: 2-7 PLAYERS TO WATCH: Gage Holgarth, So., RB; Chris Norman, Jr., OL; Austin Durbin, Jr., OL; Zach Habermaas, Jr., OL; Chandler Walters, Jr., LB OUTLOOK: With dangerously low numbers Meridian needs a lot to go right, but Davis has a base to work with. There’s a go-to running back in Holgarth and the line looks strong with four returning starters. Other than Maroa-Forsyth, St. Teresa and Tuscola, there aren’t any dominant teams on the Hawks’ schedule. But Meridian has just one senior – even the experienced line is made up of juniors. That might not be enough to break through this year, but the Hawks will
COACH: Tim Brilley (5th year, 22-17 record) ENROLLMENT: 241 LAST YEAR’S RECORD: 7-3, lost 42-28 to New Berlin in 3A first round PLAYERS TO WATCH: Zach Jarrett, Jr., RB; Ryan Fyke, Jr., QB; Sam Luckenbill, Jr., OL/DL; Brady Moore, Jr., OL/DL; Ethan Lehmann, Sr., DB OUTLOOK: St. Teresa has waited a long time for this. In their first 26 times making the playoffs, the Bulldogs had always been 2A, 3A and even once 4A. This year, with no multiplier because they haven’t won a playoff game since 2010, St. Teresa could be a darkhorse favorite for the state title. And the Bulldogs will have great preparation in the regular season facing Unity, Maroa and Tuscola. The junior class includes Fyke and Jarrett, who are back and now have
Zach Jarrett leads a talented group of runners for St. Teresa. experience. Even with an injury to the talented junior Cade McLeod, the Bulldogs’ line figures to give those two time to work. Fyke showed his arm as the season went on last year, but he’ll have to find new chemistry with receivers. Jarrett, with eight receptions, is the leading returning receiver. Freshman Jacardia Wright could become a factor on both sides of the ball. Schedule Aug 28 — at Tolono Unity Sep 4 — Maroa-Forsyth Sep 11 — Central A&M Sep 18 — at Meridian Sep 25 — Clinton Oct 2 — Sullivan-Okaw Valley Oct 9 — at Tuscola Oct 16 — at Shelbyville Oct 23 — Warrensburg-Latham
GOOD LUCK
BULLDOGS WE WE ARE ARE PROUD PROUD OF OF YOU YOU FROM FROM
ST. TERESA HIGH SCHOOL
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FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
FOOTBALL 2015
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CENTRAL ILLINOIS CONFERENCE Auburn in 3A first round PLAYERS TO WATCH: Dalace Ray, Sr., DL; Alec Ballinger, Sr., WR; Evan Barker, Sr., OL; Ty Molzen, Sr., QB OUTLOOK: There’s definitely talent back and the conference is up for grabs after the first two spots. Ray leads what should once again be a solid defensive line with good size. But with Nick Frerichs gone, it remains to be seen who will become the team’s go-to players on offense. Ballinger is a proven receiver, with Molzen stepping in at quarterback. Shelbyville will turn to Turner Pullen at QB.
Shelbyville Rams COACH: Mark Ramsey (33rd year, 3rd at Shelbyville, 249-102 career record) ENROLLMENT: 376 LAST YEAR’S RECORD: 7-3, lost 28-19 to Tuscola in 2A first round PLAYERS TO WATCH: Caleb Cloe, Sr., OL; Keiffer Johnston, Sr., DL; Turner Pullen, So., QB; Jordan Smith, Sr., WR; Garrett Brachbill, Sr., RB OUTLOOK: A team with more sophomores than underclassman might have reason to be worried, but this is no ordinary sophomore class — as many as seven of the team’s 19 sophomores could start. Scoring at last year’s pace — 39.3 points per game — could prove difficult. But Pullen has a weapon at receiver in Smith, Brachbill is a physical force at running back and Cloe leads a line that has decent size. If the sophomores can get off to a good start in the non-conference schedule, a return to the playoffs is a possibility. Schedule Aug 28 — at Pawnee Sep 4 — Rantoul Sep 11 — at Clinton Sep 18 — Tuscola Sep 25 — at Warrensburg-Latham Oct 2 — Meridian Oct 9 — at Sullivan-Okaw Valley Oct 16 — St. Teresa Oct 23 — at Central A&M
Sullivan-Okaw Valley Redskins COACH: Gerald Temples (26th year, second at SOV, 160-90 career record) ENROLLMENT: 509 LAST YEAR’S RECORD: 8-2, lost 36-14 to
Schedule Aug 28 — Hoopeston Sep 4 — at Mount Olive Sep 11 — at Tuscola Sep 18 — Warrensburg-Latham Sep 25 — at Meridian Oct 2 — at St. Teresa Oct 9 — Shelbyville Oct 16 — Central A&M Oct 23 — at Clinton
Tuscola Warriors COACH: Andy Romine (1st year) ENROLLMENT: 299 LAST YEAR’S RECORD: 10-3, lost 22-20 to Maroa in 2A semifinals PLAYERS TO WATCH: Nick Bates, Sr., QB/LB; Kaleb Williams, Jr., RB; Dalton Hoel, So., WR/DB; Keagan Kibler, Sr., OL/DL OUTLOOK: With a massive line to protect one of the best players in the area in Bates, it’ll be hard to take Tuscola down. The senior QB threw for 1,877 yards and rushed for 516 more, and that’s with missing several games. There doesn’t appear to be a weakness, with a big, strong line on both sides of the ball, a strong running game with Bates and Williams and a group of receivers that includes Hoel and Albion Edwards County transfer Lucas Hortin. Schedule Aug 28 — at Westville Sep 4 — at Georgetown-Ridge Farm Sep 11 — Sullivan-Okaw Valley Sep 18 — at Shelbyville Sep 25 — Central A&M Oct 2 — at Clinton Oct 9 — St. Teresa Oct 16 — at Warrensburg-Latham Oct 23 — Meridian
GOOD LUCK AND BEST WISHES TO THE CENTRAL A & M RAIDERS
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Coach Andy Romine is in his first season of being in charge at Tuscola.
Warrensburg-Latham Cardinals COACH: Scott Godfrey (3rd year, 6-12 record) ENROLLMENT: 312 LAST YEAR’S RECORD: 4-5 PLAYERS TO WATCH: Tyler Bond, Sr., WR; AJ Duff, Sr., OL; Gabe Kent, Sr., OL/DL; Jacob Napier, Sr., WR/DB; Jacob Vogel, Sr., WR/DB; Diondre Lewis, So., WR/LB; Dionte Lewis, So., RB/DB; Trevor Miller, Jr., OL/LB OUTLOOK: The Cardinals made a massive jump last year, but many of those seniors have left and Bond will miss the start of the season with an injury. Duff is one of the conference’s best players and there are athletes running behind him. But there’s little experience and numbers are extremely low – just 11 upperclassmen. Any injuries will put Warrensburg in a difficult position. Schedule Aug 28 — Georgetown-Ridge Farm Sep 4 — at South Fork Sep 11 — Meridian Sep 18 — at Sullivan-Okaw Valley Sep 25 — Shelbyville Oct 2 — at Central A&M Oct 9 — at Clinton Oct 16 — Tuscola Oct 23 — at St. Teresa
ALL-TIME BEST How H&R area football teams rank among other state schools with all-time record: Pos. Team W-L-T Pct. 3. Tuscola 682-326-46 .669 4. Arcola 681-334-39 .665 23. Casey-Westfield 593-293-21 .665 35. Robinson 549-381-39 .587 41. Monticello 534-351-32 .600 42. Taylorville 533-384-44 .578 63. Pana 500-417-42 .543 78. Flora 486-379-22 .560 96. St. Teresa 462-315-28 .591 100. Newton 454-382-24 .519 107. Maroa-Forsth 447-334-18 .571 123. Bement/S.Piatt 428-433-38 .497 134. Charleston 414-329-35 .555 137. Sullivan 410-434-32 .486 138. Effingham 409-276-16 .595 141. Cerro Gordo 406-375-21 .519 169. Mount Zion 373-226-16 .620 169. Moweaqua/A&M 373-235-5 .606 179. Mattoon 364-436-28 .457 186. Stephen Decatur 357-450-52 .446 198. Olney 343-370-31 .482 Statistics from Tom Sikorski and Kev Varney
Let’s go Shelbyville Rams! Wishing the Shelbyville Rams a great season!
Now Hiring SECURITY PERSONNEL in Shelby County Minimal Qualifications Required: • Valid Illinois Driver’s License • 5 year violation free driving record • No prior drug or alcohol record • Possess: or be willing to obtain a PERC, FOID. FCC card • Be able to pass criminal background check /fingerprinting checks Preference will be given to qualified individuals with disabilities and veterans. Applications available at 1810 W. S. 3rd Street in Shelbyville IL or by requesting an application via email: kathyr@sccsil.org. Shelby County Community Services, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.
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FOOTBALL 2015
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FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
APOLLO CONFERENCE Charleston Trojans COACH: Tim Hogan (1st year) ENROLLMENT: 791 LAST YEAR’S RECORD: 1-8 PLAYERS TO WATCH: Ridge Boyer, Jr., QB; Kevin Reddish, Jr., RB; Bryce Frederick, Jr., RB; Justin Wilson, Jr., QB; Blaine Crews, Sr., WR OUTLOOK: Last year was a rough one for the Trojans’ offense, which scored more than two touchdowns in a game just twice all year. The good news is the five players who touched the ball most last year were all sophomores, so the future looks brighter. Schedule Aug 28 — at Rantoul Sep 4 — Mount Vernon Sep 11 — at Centralia
Breakdown Preseason Poll Taylorville Mount Zion Mattoon Effingham Salem Charleston Last year Effingham Taylorville Mount Zion Mattoon Salem Charleston
4-1 4-1 3-2 3-2 1-4 0-5
Sep 18 — Effingham Sep 25 — at Mattoon (at EIU) Oct 2 — at Mount Zion Oct 9 — Taylorville Oct 16 — at Salem Oct 23 — Highland
Effingham Flaming Hearts
Mattoon Green Wave COACH: Troy Johnson (7th year, 23-34 record) ENROLLMENT: 1,021 LAST YEAR’S RECORD: 5-5, lost 57-26 to Highland in 5A first round PLAYERS TO WATCH: Braden Smith, Jr., QB; Garett Rice, Sr., RB/FS; Michael Smith, Jr., RB/DB; Bryson Colbert, Sr., OL/DL OUTLOOK: Without many players back, Smith will have to shoulder much of the load. If he can get some help, the Green Wave is a playoff team for the fourth straight year. If not, it could be a long year for Smith trying to do everything.
Games to watch Aug. 28 – Mahomet-Seymour at Mount Zion Sept. 11 – Mattoon at Highland Sept. 18 – Mount Zion at Mattoon Sept. 25 – Mount Zion at Taylorville Oct. 16 – Taylorville at Mattoon Top players Offense: Braden Smith, QB, Mattoon Defense: Brett Langen, LB, Taylorville Random fact Last year marked the 10th time since 2000 both Mount Zion and Effingham advanced to the playoffs. 2012 and 2013 were the only years neither made it.
Schedule Aug 28 — Mahomet-Seymour Sep 4 — Jerseyville Sep 11 — at Mascoutah Sep 18 — at Mattoon Sep 25 — at Taylorville Oct 2 — Charleston Oct 9 — at Salem Oct 16 — Effingham Oct 23 — at Bethalto Civic Memorial
COACH: Brett Hefner (1st year) ENROLLMENT: 784 LAST YEAR’S RECORD: 6-4, lost 45-38 to Canton in 4A first-round PLAYERS TO WATCH: Drew Vasquez, Sr., RB/DB; Griffin Paige, Sr., OL/LB; Grant Piggush, Sr., OL/DL OUTLOOK: The Hearts return almost no one from last year’s physically punishing playoff team, and they have a new coach. Paige and Piggush are a good base on the offensive line and Vasquez is a good player to build the secondary around, but otherwise there are a lot of question marks. The Hearts’ schedule isn’t an easy one for a young team. Schedule Aug 28 — Breese Mater Dei Sep 4 — Mascoutah Sep 11 — at Bethalto Civic Memorial Sep 18 — at Charleston Sep 25 — Salem Oct 2 — at Taylorville Oct 9 — Mattoon Oct 16 — at Mount Zion Oct 23 — at Mahomet-Seymour
6-4 10-2 6-4 5-5 1-8 1-8
stops, Mount Zion has vowed to be better on that side of the ball and has plenty of returners who, while still fairly young, will be better prepared with a year of experience.
Schedule Aug 28 — at Troy Triad Sep 4 — Bethalto Civic Memorial Sep 11 — at Highland
BUY 1 LARGE PIZZA
Taylorville Tornadoes
J.J. Aldridge will take over at quarterback for Mount Zion. Sep 18 — Mount Zion Sep 25 — Charleston Oct 2 — Salem Oct 9 — at Effingham Oct 16 — Taylorville Oct 23 — at Jerseyville
Mount Zion Braves COACH: Mike Popovich (3rd year, 9-10 record) ENROLLMENT: 712 LAST YEAR’S RECORD: 6-4, lost 65-35 to Rochester in 4A first round PLAYERS TO WATCH: Brandon Price, Jr., WR; Max Gensler, Sr., WR/DB; Sammy Schultz, Jr., WR/DB; J.J. Aldridge, Sr., QB; Peyten Chappel, Jr., LB; Matt Wike, Jr., LB OUTLOOK: After a senior-heavy offense helped push the team to a playoff berth, it’s a brand new look for the Braves. But there’s still loads of talent on offense, with Price and Gensler leading the way. The key will be how quickly Aldridge can click with them. Defense, though, has to show improvement for the Braves to take the next step. A season after struggling to get
COACH: Jeb Odam (7th year, 27-31 record) ENROLLMENT: 809 LAST YEAR’S RECORD: 10-2, lost 63-14 to SHG in 5A quarterfinals PLAYERS TO WATCH: Tyler Gist, Sr., RB/LB; Cole Owens, Sr., WR/DB; Brett Langen, Sr., LB; Tucker May, Sr., OL/DL; Blake Heimsness, Sr., QB; Jimmy Barry, Sr., DB; Parker Stokes, Jr., DB; Gunder Reese, Jr., DL; Travis Winans, Sr., LB; Deeshawn Hammers, Sr., WR OUTLOOK: The defense figures to be ahead of the offense with last year’s massive senior class having departed. With Langen at linebacker, May on the line and Barry and Stokes in the secondary, at first the Tornadoes may have to win by stopping the ball. But that should not be a problem. Sheer numbers and success at the lower classes last year bode well for the Tornadoes. Heimsness, though, has big shoes to fill at quarterback with the graduation of last year’s H&R Area Player of the Year Tanner Champley. Schedule Aug 28 — Mount Vernon Sep 4 — at Bartonville-Limestone Sep 11 — at Rantoul Sep 18 — at Salem Sep 25 — Mount Zion Oct 2 — Effingham Oct 9 — at Charleston Oct 16 — at Mattoon Oct 23 — Chillicothe IVC
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FOOTBALL 2015
OKAW VALLEY CONFERENCE Maroa-Forsyth Trojans COACH: Josh Jostes (16th year, 133-47 record) ENROLLMENT: 352 LAST YEAR’S RECORD: 10-4, lost 41-12 to Eastland-Pearl City in 2A finals PLAYERS TO WATCH: Logan Allsup, Jr., WR/LB; Chad Howell, Sr., RB; Brandon Owens-Price, Sr., DL; Connor Aeilts, Jr., LB; Tyler Ray, Jr., QB; Kyle Wendt, Sr., OL/DL OUTLOOK: While Jack Hockaday carried this team offensively last year, the Trojans have the talent, depth and experience to extend the program’s playoff streak to 12. Ray will likely win the battle to start at QB — he’s a better thrower than Allsup — but Allsup is the better runner and will likely see some time there depending on the weather, opponent and strategy. Wherever Allsup plays, he’ll be a force. He was a reliable target at tight end for Hockaday last year. Allsup will also be part of a defense that will likely be Maroa’s strength. Owens-Price will be one of the area’s best defensive linemen and the defensive backs, while still undersized, have improved in the offseason according to Jostes. Schedule Aug 28 -- Meridian Sep 4 – at St. Teresa Sep 11 -- Heyworth
Tyler Ray could get his turn at quarterback for Maroa-Forsyth. Sep 18 – at Rantoul Sep 25 -- Tolono Unity Oct 2 – at Monticello Oct 9 – at Champaign St. JosephOgden Oct 16 -- St. Thomas More Oct 23 – at Cerro Gordo-Bement
Monticello Sages COACH: Cully Welter (22nd year, 7th year at Monticello, 200-61 career record)
ENROLLMENT: 508 LAST YEAR’S RECORD: 7-4, lost 40-0 to Wilmington in 3A second round PLAYERS TO WATCH: Brandon Wildman, Sr., QB; Noah Freemon, Sr., WR; Jacob Burton, Sr., WR/DB.; Tyus Welter, Sr., WR/DB; Matt Baker, Jr., DE OUTLOOK: Wildman returns as the leading passer in the area (3,198 passing yards) and he’ll have his top receivers back, making the Sages’ offense potentially the best in the area. The question is: How will the Sages’ line hold up? With several spots lost to graduation, there will sophomores counted on to step up. Wildman is strong enough to get velocity on a quick release, but a better line will help those downfield throws. Defensively, Monticello returns several key pieces, including Burton, Baker and Nathan Graham. But like on the offensive side, the Sages’ undersized line will be put to the test. Schedule Aug 28 -- Nokomis Sep 5 – at Macomb (2 p.m.) Sep 11 – at Tri-County Sep 18 – at Tolono Unity Sep 25 -- St. Joseph-Ogden Oct 2 -- Maroa-Forsyth Oct 9 – at Champaign St. Thomas More Oct 16 -- Rantoul Oct 23 – at Monmouth-Roseville
Breakdown Preseason Poll St. Joseph-Ogden Tolono Unity Monticello Maroa-Forsyth Champaign St. Thomas More Rantoul Last year Tolono Unity St. Joseph-Ogden Maroa-Forsyth Monticello Rantoul St. Thomas More
4-1 4-1 3-2 3-2 1-4 0-5
9-2 10-2 10-4 7-4 1-8 1-8
Games to watch Sept. 4 -- Maroa-Forsyth at St. Teresa Sept. 18 -- Monticello at Tolono Unity Sept. 25 – Tolono Unity at Maroa-Forsyth Oct. 2 -- Maroa-Forsyth at Monticello Oct. 16 – Tolono Unity at St. Joseph-Ogden Top players Offense: Brandon Wildman, Monticello Defense: Brandon Owens-Price, MaroaForsyth Random fact St. Joseph-Ogden (24), Tolono Unity (21), Maroa-Forsyth (11) and Monticello (6) have a combined 62 straight playoff apperances. During those playoff runs, the teams have combined for two state titles and 12 second-place finishes.
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LITTLE OKAW VALLEY CONFERENCE Arcola Purple Riders COACH: Zach Zehr (3rd year, 13-7 record) ENROLLMENT: 211 LAST YEAR’S RECORD: 10-1, lost 41-34 to Camp Point Central in 1A second round PLAYERS TO WATCH: Wyatt Fishel, Sr., RB/LB; Clayton Strader, Sr., QB/DB; Seth Still, Sr., WR/DB; Kollin Seaman, Sr., WR/LB; Chase Strader, Sr., RB/LB; Dalton Pantier, Jr., OL/DL; Cole Hutton, Sr., OL/DL OUTLOOK: No one came close to challenging Arcola in the regular season last year, and with the bulk of that team is back the Riders are the team to beat in the LOVC. The team has as much speed as any Class 1A team in the state, with several members of last spring’s championship sprint relay teams, and complements that speed with a stout line. The Riders’ focus will be running the ball, but Clayton Strader was extremely efficient when throwing – a 64 percent completion rate and just three interceptions. Even on a night when the offense stumbles, the defense will be difficult to score on. Led by Fishel at linebacker, the
LAST YEAR’S RECORD: 1-8 PLAYERS TO WATCH: Dalton Long, Sr., OL/DL; CJ Vinson, Jr., OL/DL; Brody Ulrey, Jr., QB/DB; Bryant Bloch, Sr., RB/LB OUTLOOK: Ulrey got thrown in the fire as a sophomore quarterback last year when Keegan McHood was injured and should be better with a year’s experience. But the Bombers face an uphill battle in the stacked LOVC Northwest.
Clayton Strader will again guide the Arcola offense. defense allowed just 11.3 points per game in the regular season last year. Schedule Aug. 28 -- Martinsville Sep. 4 – at Cumberland Sep. 11 -- Palestine Sep. 18 – at Argenta-Oreana Sep. 25 -- Arthur-LovingtonAtwood-Hammond
Oct. 2 -- LSA Oct. 9 – at Sangamon Valley Oct. 16 – at Cerro GordoBement Oct. 23 -- Tri-County
Argenta-Oreana Bombers COACH: Chad Eisenmenger (5th year, 19-20 record) ENROLLMENT: 291
Schedule Aug 28 -- Oblong Sep 4 – at Villa Grove Sep 11 – at Champaign St. Thomas More Sep 18 -- Arcola Sep 25 -- LSA Oct 2 – at Sangamon Valley Oct 9 -- Cerro Gordo-Bement Oct 16 – at Arthur-LovingtonAtwood-Hammond Oct 23 – at Dwight (7:30 p.m.)
Arthur-LovingtonAtwood-Hammond Knights COACH: Dale Schuring (13th year, 78-46 record) ENROLLMENT: 264 LAST YEAR’S RECORD: 7-3, lost 5434 to LeRoy in 1A first round PLAYERS TO WATCH: Brendan
Teak, Sr., RB/LB; Marcus Vanausdoll, So., RB/LB; Mason Lee, Sr., OL/DL; Tyler Smith, Sr., RB/DL OUTLOOK: Last year’s senior class lifted Arthur out of a twoyear stretch in which the Knights won just one game, taking the team to the playoffs the last two years. This year’s team likely won’t fall that far, with a 14-member senior class. But not many of those seniors have played and numbers are thin behind the starters. The future is bright with Vanausdoll, lineman Kolby Rickman, Kobe Wells and Will Cohan – all sophomores – potentially cracking the lineup this season. But playing in a brutal conference with a lot of untested players likely means a step back from the level of the teams in 2013 and ‘14. Schedule Aug 28 -- Villa Grove Sep 4 – at Martinsville Sep 11 – at Oblong Sep 18 – at Sangamon Valley Sep 25 – at Arcola Oct 2 -- Cerro Gordo-Bement Oct 9 – at LSA Oct 16 -- Argenta-Oreana Oct 23 -- Cumberland
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LITTLE OKAW VALLEY CONFERENCE Cerro Gordo-Bement Broncos COACH: Andy Kerley (6th year at CGB, 39-22 career record) ENROLLMENT: 338 LAST YEAR’S RECORD: 3-6 PLAYERS TO WATCH: Dalton Grohler, Jr., RB; Brant Knowles, Sr., OL/DL; Tyler Walker, Jr., OL/DL; JR Menezes, Jr., OL/DL OUTLOOK: It won’t take much to get CGB back with a winning record — the Broncos had three losses by two points or less last year. Under Kerley, a line that returns several starters should be a strength. That will benefit Grohler, who’s only a junior and racked up 688 yards and 12 touchdowns last year. Between his ability to get to the outside, take on linebackers and an experienced line that knows how he runs, Grohler is a breakout player to watch for.
Breakdown Preseason Poll Northwest Arcola Sangamon Valley Cerro Gordo-Bement Argenta-Oreana LSA Arthur-Lovington-Atwood-Hammond Southeast Villa Grove Cumberland Tri-County Oblong Palestine-Hutsonville Martinsville Last year Northwest Arcola ALAH Sangamon Valley Cerro Gordo LSA Argenta-Oreana Southeast Tri-County Villa Grove Cumberland Oblong Martinsville Palestine
5-0 4-1 3-2 2-3 1-4 0-5 4-1 4-1 4-1 2-3 1-4 0-5
10-1 7-3 7-4 3-6 1-8 1-8 6-4 7-3 5-4 3-6 1-8 1-8
Games to watch Aug. 28 -- Cerro Gordo-Bement at TriCounty Sept. 11 -- Sangamon Valley at Momence Sept. 25 -- LSA at Argenta-Oreana Oct. 2 -- Arcola at Sangamon Valley Oct. 16 -- Arcola at Cerro Gordo-Bement Top players Offense: Clayton Strader, Arcola Defense: Wyatt Fishel, Arcola Random fact Arcola scored 47 points per game last year – the most by an LOVC team since the IHSA began posting records in 1997.
Schedule Aug 28 -- Tri-County (CG) Sep 4 -- Pawnee (B) Sep 11 – at Cumberland Sep 18 – at LSA Sep 25 -- Sangamon Valley (CG) Oct 2 – at ALAH Oct 9 – at Argenta-Oreana Oct 16 -- Arcola (B) Oct 23 -- Maroa-Forsyth (CG)
LSA Lions
he’ll be back for the start of the season. As long as the line holds up, the Storm will have the personnel to sustain long drives and also strike for big plays. Like on offense, the defensive line is smaller and lacks depth. But they have plenty of help behind them with particularly strong linebackers, led by Mason Hutchins, and defensive backs, led by Staab. Schedule Aug. 28 -- Palestine-Hutsonville Sep. 5 – at Oblong Sep. 11 – at Momence Sep. 18 -- ALAH Sep. 25 – at Cerro Gordo-Bement Oct. 2 -- Argenta-Oreana Oct. 9 -- Arcola Oct. 16 – at LSA Oct. 23 – at Martinsville
COACH: Craig Bundy (2nd year at LSA, 135-120 career record) ENROLLMENT: 228 LAST YEAR’S RECORD: 1-8 PLAYERS TO WATCH: Jackson Allen, Jr., RB/DB; Briley Housh, Jr., QB/DB; Kholbe Leaks, Jr., OL/DL; Seth Reynolds, So., RB/L; Chandler Carter, So., OL/LB OUTLOOK: Bundy’s first season showed growing pains, but speedy LSA was able to score more consistently than it had in previous years. A wideout last year, Housh will move into a new role as quarterback. He’ll have LSA’s leading rusher and receiver Jackson Allen -- 824 total yards from scrimmage -- back as his main weapon. If either get into open space, they’re dangerous, but space may be hard to find against LOVC defenses and behind a young line. Even though the team has some starting experience, LSA is still very young -just one senior (Tyler Daily) is on the roster. It’ll be up to the more sizeable junior class (seven total) to help lead the team, which is the largest it’s ever been - 32 athletes.
COACH: Lucas Watkins (1st year) ENROLLMENT: 284 LAST YEAR’S RECORD: 5-4 PLAYERS TO WATCH: Mike Wolke, Jr., OL/LB; Keaton Titus, Jr., RB/LB; Gunner McMechan, Sr., TE/LB; Cameron James, Sr., QB/DB; Austin Kline, Sr., OL/DL OUTLOOK: Even with losing a three-year QB in Monte Wolke, Cumberland has plenty of talent returning and will compete for the title in the LOVC Southwest. The Pirates have a slew of young linemen on both sides of the ball, a tough, experienced running back in Titus and a physical tackler at linebacker in Mike Wolke.
Schedule Aug. 28 -- Cumberland Sep. 4 – at Tri-County Sep. 11 – at Villa Grove Sep. 18 -- Cerro Gordo-Bement Sep. 25 – at Argenta-Oreana Oct. 2 – at Arcola Oct. 9 -- ALAH Oct. 16 -- Sangamon Valley Oct. 23 – at Oblong
Schedule Aug. 28 – at LSA Sep. 4 -- Arcola Sep. 11 -- Cerro Gordo-Bement Sep. 18 -- Oblong Sep. 25 – at Tri-County Oct. 2 – at Palestine-Hutsonville Oct. 9 -- Villa Grove Oct. 16 -- Martinsville Oct .23 – at ALAH
Cumberland Pirates
Sangamon Valley Storm
Oblong Panthers
COACH: Michael Lee (12th year, 42-64 record) ENROLLMENT: 368 LAST YEAR’S RECORD: 7-4, lost 38-19 to Maroa in 2A second round PLAYERS TO WATCH: Miles Hutchins, Sr., QB/LB; Wyatt Royce, Jr., RB; Wyatt Beals, Sr., RB; Mason Hutchins, Sr., Staab RB/LB; Jimmy Staab, Jr., WR/DB OUTLOOK: Replacing four starters on both the offensive and defensive lines is causing Lee some sleepless nights, but no team in the area has more talent returning at the offensive skill positions. Miles Hutchins is in his third year starting at quarterback – he’s a threat to run or pass – and he has tons of weapons in twin brother Mason along with Beals, Royce and Staab. Though Staab dislocated his ankle during summer basketball,
COACH: Travis Reider (5th year, 16-22 record) ENROLLMENT: 190 LAST YEAR’S RECORD: 3-6 PLAYERS TO WATCH: Drew Reider, Jr., WR/DB; Hunter Goodwin, Jr., OL/LB; Avery Imboden, Jr., RB/LB; Haze Lemmon, Sr., WR/LB/P OUTLOOK: The first year in the LOVC proved to be a difficult one for the Panthers. They could see some improvement this year, but it won’t be easy with a young team. Schedule Aug 28 – at Argenta-Oreana Sep 5 -- Sangamon Valley Sep 11 -- ALAH Sep 18 – at Cumberland Sep 25 – at Villa Grove Oct 2 -- Tri-County Oct 9 – at Martinsville Oct 16 -- Palestine Oct 23 – LSA
What is the best thing about being a football player? I’ve had a passion for football ever since I started playing it. I love having the people I’ve grown up with playing with me. I love being able to throw my aggression into the game and hit someone. – Brant Knowles, Cerro Gordo-Bement
It shows your character. It shows what you can do in life and how hard you try. But mostly, it really shows your leadership skills. – Logan Allsup, Maroa-Forsyth
The best thing for me is, as a freshman, football allowed me to get out and make some friends that I think I’ll keep for the rest of my life, honestly. – Brody Steber, Newton
Just being able to go out on Friday nights, strap up with my teammates, and play in front of the fans. – Brandon Wildman, Monticello
Being allowed to hit people. Duh. – Adam Macke, MacArthur
Honestly, being able to get close to my team and have fun. We probably have one of our better groups I’ve seen and it’s always exciting to be playing with them. – Andrew Kelley, Clinton
Hitting. Just hitting. - Jamar Jones, MacArthur
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FOOTBALL 2015
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An obligation
Talented classes at Tuscola, Arcola hope to resume sto AREN DOW
H&R Staff Writer
Keith Sinclair led the Casey-Westfield program to three state runner-up finishes at Champaign including this trip in 2008.
Pieces in place for Casey to keep the tradition alive By JUSTIN CONN H&R Staff Writer
Tom Monken knows how to coach football. But he had to admit that becoming a head coach for the first time has been a learning experience. Monken has been Casey-Westfield’s offensive coordinator the last three seasons and was also an assistant under Mick Roberts at Casey in the 1990s. Between putting together practice schedules, worrying about the defense and special teams in addition to offense, keeping track of which players are sick, injured and have grade problems, along with communicating with parents and administrators ... “I won’t lie — it’s been overwhelming at times,” said Monken, who took over as head coach when Jim Sullivan stepped down to become high school principal. “I wasn’t really prepared for it. I hadn’t thought about being a head coach. It was kind of thrown in my lap and I’m figuring it out as I go along.” Fortunately for Monken, Casey’s program is at least somewhat selfsustaining. In the last 34 years, Casey has had one losing season. That spans three different coaches, includine one — Keith Sinclair — with two separate tenures. Despite last year’s — for Casey — unusually early second-round exit, the Warriors will again be among the best teams in Class 1A. Quarterback Isaas Elkins will enter his second year as a starter and have a pair of big, athletic receivers to throw to in 6-foot-6 senior Corey Carver and his “little” brother Kyle, a 6-3 sophomore. Corey Carver is even more of a force on defense, playing defensive end against run-based offenses and outside linebacker against spread teams. “He’s a big matchup problem for teams on offense and defense,” Monken said. “On defense he’s tough to block. Against spread teams he’s athletic enough to cover and intimidating for quarterbacks when he’s blitzing off the edge. He’ll be our enforcer.” Casey also has solid running backs, with Beau Biggs stepping in for the graduated Trey Thompson at halfback and Joe Adams and the speedy Ethan Lucas rotating in at slot back. Casey’s biggest question mark has been its strength in past years — size on the line. Gone are the 300-pound behomoths from the last several years. In fact, Casey’s biggest lineman this year is 220 pounds. “We don’t have the size and depth we’ve had,” Monken said. “It’s something we’re having to adjust to. We haven’t changed much, but if we run into a team with a considerable size advantage, we’ll have to look at doing some different things both offensively and defensively.” Avenging last year’s second-round loss isn’t something the Warriors are focused on, but Casey’s players and coaches are well-aware of the program’s tradition. “We don’t talk about the playoffs, but we’re like anyone else — our expectation is to play on the day after Thanksgiving,” Monken said.
It’s a cold war for the Cola Wars right now. The once fierce and annual rivalry is now mostly reserved for special occasions in the postseason. There’s still some life in the battle between Tuscola and Arcola, even after the Warriors moved to the Okaw Valley back in 2007. Two of the state’s oldest and winningest programs are in fact so close together that the unofficial mark has the Warriors total wins (682) one ahead of the Purple Riders (681). And it just so happens that both come into this season with lofty expectations and good reasons to back that up. Arcola had a perfect regular season last year and Tuscola finished one game, and perhaps one drive, short of making the state championship game. Arcola, like always, will be in Class 1A come postseason. And Tuscola, which has bounced back and forth between 2A and 1A, seems to be closer to the latter with its 299 enrollment this year. The 1A road to DeKalb might be through both schools along Route 45. “High,” Arcola coach Zach Zehr said about expectations. “You always set your expectations high. Our senior class, I want to say we’re going on about seven three-year starters.” Tuscola coach Andy Romine was bolder. “I think the kids are buying in heavier than they ever have,” he said. “And in fact, I believe that to a person, all 61 of our kids and eight of our coaches believe that our program can be not just as good as it has been, but better than it’s ever been.” Coach, there’s a sign that reads 14-0 and State Champions on the press box. “There is. It doesn’t mean we’re going to go 14-0, but as a program as a whole, I think our program can get to new heights and different expectations every year. At least that’s what we’re going to strive for.” That’s the point for both Tuscola and Arcola. With both of the programs’ history, there’s plenty to live up to. And with the way both teams have performed recently, why not set DeKalb as a goal?
Continuing the tradition That state final is something both schools haven’t had in a while, but Tuscola’s been there more recently. But not quite recent enough. “Since the freshman class came here in 2003, every single class that’s been through here has played in a
The 2009 Tuscola state championship team enjoys seeing its name u the weapons to add to the state hardware at the school. state championship game,” Romine said. “The seniors haven’t.” There are reminders of that success everywhere. From the trophies lining the cases, state championship photos in the weight room and even on the field. Phillip Meyer — who helped lead Tuscola to a state title and two more second places — is an assistant coach. “When you walk by all those trophies, those mean something,” senior Brandon Stewart said. “I think more than anything, it sets expectations within the school community,” Zehr said. “That’s what they’ve seen, what they’ve had going through and they expect that to be carried over.” Even if players somehow miss all the trophies and banners, many have living legends in their home. Tuscola quarterback Nick Bates is the son of Steve Bates, who rushed for 2,224 yards his senior season in 1982, and Wyatt Fishel is the last — for a while, at least — of the talented Fishel clan. “I’ve seen the ’91 rerun before, and that Ice Game when both of my uncles (Jeff and John) were juniors and seniors and they were sliding all over the place in Champaign,” Fishel said. “I got a little obligation to make a little run here to try to carry on the name as long as I can.”
Return of the Cola Wa
For the current gener cola and Arcola, the Co mostly stories or on old assistant coaches wear Some may have seen playoff games in ’11 and something neither side experienced. It hasn’t changed the reignite the rivalry. “That’s something tha exciting. I think about i every day,” Stewart said “I think it’d be exhila la receiver Seth Still sa the Cola Wars again, an this time come out with Part of the reason it s onates, besides the geog close the programs are It’s amplified when taki account how it ranks wi of Illinois — Tuscola is Arcola’s fourth. “We definitely all kno top with the wins right we’re looking to take th Fishel said. “We want to undisputed who’s on top think it’d be awesome to think it’d be awesome.” The matchup would o the 1A playoffs, and like quarterfinals are later.
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FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
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year, there are seven three-year starters for Arcola. It provides a strong presence for leadership, and that might be needed at times with a lack of experience and depth behind that premier group. “We have to manufacture more situations to push our older kids,” Zehr said. “Whether it’ll be the line or backs, it’s no longer just run a set team segment because we don’t necessarily have the depth to push a Wyatt or a Kollin (Seaman) or a Chase (Strader).” The biggest difference on the offense will be the line. Dalton Pantier and Cole Hutton are back, but a group of newcomers make up a smaller, but more athletic line from last year. “It’s definitely different,” Pantier said. “You have to get to know them and how to get along with them and know what they like to do. It’s a whole new ballgame.” Even if the line needs time figure things out, it shouldn’t be a problem. Clayton Strader is entering his third year at QB and his incredible speed makes most defenders look lost. And he made massive improvements in the passing game last year, raising his completion percentage by 20 points (64 percent, 77-for-120 passing) and nearly doubled his touchdowns (17) while cutting his interceptions in half (3). He’ll have Still back to work the outside of the field, Seaman moving to the middle at tight end and Fishel out of the backfield.
H&R file photos
Can Clayton Strader’s Arcola team duplicate the success of 2014?
have a real shot of going undefeated, which could put them on the opposite side of the playoff bracket thanks to the new postseason rules.
Manufacturing situations The Purple Riders returning this year include many of last season’s best players. Including Fishel, who can challenge Bates for player of the
As Nick Bates camped in the pocket for the second half of the season thanks to a bum ankle, the senior QB started to see the field a bit better. It was a small silver lining while half of his game was limited. “It sucked not being to move as well as I wanted to,” he said. “As a quarterback perspective, you know, (it helped in) reading coverages because I can’t run out of every situation. You got to be able to read defenses and be able to read better.” He returns behind a line both he and Romine have raved about in the summer, even as they’ve had to plug in some newcomers. They’ll protect Kaleb Williams, the speedy Dalton Hoel and newcomer Lukas Hortin. “A kid that’s really come a long way that’ll play a huge role for us is Jaret Heath,” Romine said about one of the lineman newcomers. “He’s going to be a junior and he’s gotten physically bigger. The mental change to his game and his change in pysche is leaps and bounds better than it was.”
STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS Arcola 1978 (1A) 1985 (1A) 1988 (1A)
Casey-Westfield 1985 (2A) St. Teresa 1974 (2A) 1975 (2A) 1979 (2A)
FOOTBALL 2015
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RUNNER-UPS Arcola 1977 (1A) 1991 (1A) 1995 (1A)
Casey-Westfield 1982 (2A) 2008 (2A) 2011 (2A) St. Teresa 1986 (2A) Tuscola 2007 (1A) 2010 (1A) 2011 (1A)
Tuscola 2006 (1A) 2009 (1A)
An opportunity presented St. Teresa’s lofty goal: To make some history AREN DOW
H&R Staff Writer
With New Berlin looming in the playoffs, Sam Luckenbill took his first start on the offensive line. The St. Teresa sophomore knew his assignments and had the physical tools to compete. But coming in for an injured Noah Bowers and executing flawlessly in broad daylight in front of a raucous playoff crowd can be difficult. “There were nerves and eventually I eased in, but I still made some mistakes,” Luckenbill said. That described much of the Bulldogs’ season last year. Luckenbill was part of a large sophomore class that learned on Friday nights while still winning seven games in the regular season. There was Ryan Fyke, a spunky quarterback who could take off with his feet but whose deep ball was inaccurate. Running back Zach Jarrett showed impressive speed, but sweeping to the outside sometimes left him running all over the field. And the offensive line had plenty of size for a bunch of underclassmen, but were still feeling out playing at the varsity level. Their talent was good enough to make the playoffs at the varsity level, but inexperience made several comebacks a necessity. It was highly encouraging last year. It’s more encouraging to see so many of the same Bulldogs back. “Last year, we had to talk about plays, call out blocks,” Luckenbill said. “This year it’s ingrained, we know it. We still talk to each other, but we know who to get and when we got to get there.” All this comes during a rare time where St. Teresa doesn’t have a multiplier. The Bulldogs have made the playoffs three of the past four years, but haven’t won a game — the standard for the multiplier. That likely means St. T — enrollment 241 — will be almost guaranteed to be in the Class 1A playoffs. That doesn’t leave the best taste in coach Tim Brilley’s mouth.
“We’re excited for the opportunity,” Brilley said. “But it’s bittersweet because it means you haven’t had success in the past.” It’s been seven years since Scott Davis took a string of teams to the quarterfinals. It’s been 29 years since the Bulldogs made a championship game, and it’s been 36 since one of St. T’s three state titles. For Brilley, a former St. T lineman, it’s personal in keeping the Bulldogs’ name relevant come November. “Our team’s goal is to get on our board down there,” Brilley said, referencing the scoreboard that showcases the ’74, ’75 and ’79 state champions. “I grew up under coach Davis here as a player, and I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t love St. Teresa and what it’s all about. “It’s very important to me and it’s very important that the kids know they have a job to do to hold up their end of of the bargain.” “Really, we want to win a state championship,” Fyke said. “Yeah, we won three times, but that was a long time ago to us.” There’s plenty to back that optimism. Jarrett rushed for 1,311 yards last year behind a line that returns four players who saw starting time. That line also protected Fyke, who went 80of-158 passing for 1,253 yards and 12 touchdowns. Most of the top wideouts from last year are gone, but a strong run game should give them time to develop. “I feel like I’m ready now because our line’s real good and I can trust my blockers,” Jarrett said. “I’m going to stop running outside so much, run inside the hole. And then I feel like I’m faster, and I can block.” But the Bulldogs are looking to be multi-faceted and that’s where Fyke comes in. The junior said he went to five quarterback camps during the summer and really worked on his passing. Brilley sees something else he picked up along the way. “I really think he’s matured, honestly,” he said. “And that’s the biggest thing. He made some mistakes last year, both ... you know, it’s over and done with. He’s matured and learned from his mistakes.”
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FOOTBALL 2015
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LITTLE ILLINI CONFERENCE Casey-Westfield Warriors
Jr., RB; Colton Dulaney, Sr., DL; Trevin Smith, Jr., RB OUTLOOK: Scott amassed more than 1,500 yards rushing and passing last year, but Flora will need him to develop as a passer to make a move in the LIC. He should have more time to throw with a line returning several players who were thrown in the fire last year and a receiving corp that should catch the ball better than it did last year. But the defense will also have to be better and it doesn’t help that the Wolves have to play the conference’s top six teams in the first six weeks. Flora has a talented junior class that could be ready to break out next year, but only after another season of taking its lumps this year.
COACH: Tom Monken (1st year) ENROLLMENT: 283 LAST YEAR’S RECORD: 9-2, lost 42-21 to Bismarck-Henning in 2A second round PLAYERS TO WATCH: Isaac Elkins, Sr., QB; Corey Carver, Sr., WR/DE; Beau Biggs, Sr., RB/DB; Brett Currey, JR., OL/DL; Lance Hunt, Jr., OL/DL; T.J. Cox, So., OL/DL; Ethan Lucas, Sr., RB; Joe Adams, Jr., RB. OUTLOOK: The Warriors will be as small on the offensive and defensive lines as they’ve been in years, but that doesn’t mean Casey will take a step back in Monken’s first year as head coach. Elkins became a proven commodity last year and he has a great target in Carver. Expect a bounceback from last year’s “disappointing” 9-2 season.
Schedule Aug 28 – at Marshall Sep 4 -- Robinson Sep 11 -- Casey-Westfield Sep 19 – at Lawrenceville (2 p.m.) Sep 25 -- Olney Oct 2 – at Newton Oct 9 – at Paris Oct 16 – Edwards County Oct 23 – at Red Hill
Schedule Aug. 28 – at Paris Sep. 4 -- Newton Sep. 11 – at Flora Sep. 18 -- Robinson Sep. 25 – at Lawrenceville Oct. 2 – Albion Edwards County Oct. 9 – at Bridgeport Red Hill Oct. 16 -- Marshall Oct. 23 – at Olney
Newton Eagles COACH: Jason Fulton (9th year, 30-43 record) ENROLLMENT: 441 LAST YEAR’S RECORD: 5-5, lost 31-7 to Robinson in 3A first round PLAYERS TO WATCH: Brock Mammoser, Sr., QB; Mitch Bierman, Jr., RB/LB; Joe Stone, Jr., WR/DB; Kyle Muska, Sr., WR/DB; Nate Meinhart, Jr., WR/DB
Flora Wolves COACH: Brian Tackitt (1st year) ENROLLMENT: 347 LAST YEAR’S RECORD: 1-8 PLAYERS TO WATCH: Chris Scott, Jr., QB/WR; Mason Armstrong,
OUTLOOK: The Eagles broke their seven-year playoff drought last season and several pieces of the offense are back in Mammoser (1,293 passing yards), Bierman (628 rushing), Stone (367 receiving) and Muska (321 receiving). What the offensive and defensive lines lack in experience they make up for in talent and depth. Schedule Aug 28 – Edwards County Sep 4 – at Casey-Westfield Sep 11 -- Lawrenceville Sep 18 – at Red Hill Sep 25 -- Robinson Oct 2 -- Flora Oct 9 – at Marshall Oct 16 -- Olney Oct 23 – at Paris
Olney Tigers COACH: Matt Music (4th year, 21-18 record) ENROLLMENT: 713 LAST YEAR’S RECORD: 4-5 PLAYERS TO WATCH: Gage Miller, Jr., WR/DB; Austin Ameter, Sr., OL/DL; Luke Lambird, Jr., WR/DB; Derek Deimel, Sr., RB/LB OUTLOOK: The Tigers just missed a third straight playoff berth last year and will have some work to do to return this year. The cupboard isn’t bare, though, with Miller and Deimel experienced and athletic. Schedule Aug 28 -- Lawrenceville Sep 4 – at Red Hill Sep 11 – Edwards County Sep 18 – at Marshall Sep 25 – at Flora
Oct Oct Oct Oct
COACH: Al Stupek (8th year, 44-30 record) ENROLLMENT: 392 LAST YEAR’S RECORD: 4-5 PLAYERS TO WATCH: Rhett Zahradka, Sr., QB; Jeff Winter, Sr., OL/DL; Tucker Moeller, Sr., RB; Austin Gruber, Sr., OL/DL; Adam Miller, Jr., WR/DB OUTLOOK: It was a rare playoff miss last year — the first in Stupek’s coaching tenure. But with several returning players on the line and in the backfield, don’t count on that happening again. Schedule Aug 28 — at Staunton Sep 4 — at Roxana Sep 11 — Gillespie Sep 18 — Carlinville Sep 25 — at Piasa Southwestern Oct 2 — Greenville
Oct 9 — Litchfield Oct 16 — at Vandalia Oct 23 — Hillsboro
Vandalia Vandals COACH: John Stout (13th year, 5758 record) ENROLLMENT: 463 LAST YEAR’S RECORD: 5-5, lost 4839 to Nashville in 3A first round PLAYERS TO WATCH: Bobby Bradley, Sr., RB; Kendrick Woolsey, Sr., DL/OL; Marcus Zimmerman, So., WR/DB; Eli Bowen, Sr., OL/DL; Kolton Etcheson, Sr., OL/DL OUTLOOK: Two big pieces of Vandalia’s bounceback year return in Bradley and Woolsey. The senior running back Bradley finished the season with 931 yards and 10 touchdowns last year, and he has three big linemen back to block
Robinson Maroons
Schedule Aug 28 – Bridgeport Red Hill Sep 4 – at Flora Sep 11 -- Marshall Sep 18 – at Casey-Westfield Sep 25 – at Newton Oct 2 -- Lawrenceville Oct 9 – at Olney Oct 16 -- Paris Oct 23 – at Edwards County
for him. Those linemen should also be able to buy time for Zimmerman, who totaled 508 yards receiving as a freshman. Woolsey, who like Bradley is a state wrestler, tore apart the South Central last year in football on the defensive side of the ball -14 tackles for loss. He’ll join a group of eight starters that returns for the Vandals defense. Schedule Aug 28 — at Gillespie Sep 4 — at Carlinville Sep 11 — Staunton Sep 18 — Roxana Sep 25 — at Litchfield Oct 2 — at Hillsboro Oct 9 — Piasa Southwestern Oct 16 — Pana Oct 23 — at Greenville
Breakdown
COACH: Tim Nolen (28th year, 7th at Robinson, 162-118) ENROLLMENT: 473 LAST YEAR’S RECORD: 10-2, lost 36-29 to Mount Carmel in 3A quarterfinals PLAYERS TO WATCH: Jake Powell, Jr., RB/LB; Dylan Dirks, Jr., WR/DB; Justin Goodwin, Sr., OL/DL; Lucas Roth, Sr., OL/DL OUTLOOK: For most coaches, losing the caliber of senior class that Robinson had last year would be devastating. But Nolen has shown he doesn’t need much time to rebuild. Another quarterfinals appearance may be a stretch, but don’t look for a collapse, either. After graduating a strong front four on defense, the linebackers crew may be the strength this year. Ethan White steps in at quarterback. Powell carried the ball almost 60 times last year and there’s some experience on the line, but this is a whole new offense with Jason Richart (212 carries, 1,644 yards) graduated.
SOUTH CENTRAL CONFERENCE Pana Panthers
2 -- Paris 9 -- Robinson 16 – at Newton 23 -- Casey-Westfield
Preseason Poll Marshall Casey-Westfield Newton Lawrenceville Robinson Olney Bridgeport Red Hill Paris Flora Albion Edwards County Last year Lawrenceville Robinson Casey-Westfield Marshall Newton Olney Red Hill Paris Flora Edwards County
8-1 8-1 8-1 6-3 5-4 4-5 3-6 2-7 1-8 0-9
9-2 10-2 9-2 7-4 5-5 4-5 3-6 2-7 1-8 0-9
Games to watch Sept. 4 – Newton at Casey-Westfield Sept. 25 – Casey-Westfield at Lawrenceville Sept. 25 – Robinson at Newton Oct. 16 – Marshall at Casey-Westfield Oct. 23 – Lawrenceville at Marshall Top players Offense: Isaac Elkins, CaseyWestfield Defense: Corey Carver, CaseyWestfield Random fact Robinson was known for its powerful rushing offense last year, but the key to its success was actually defense. The Maroons allowed an area-best 12.3 points per game.
PRAIRIE STATE CONFERENCE Nokomis Redskins COACH: Gabe Cesaretti (9th year, 37-40) ENROLLMENT: 194 LAST YEAR’S RECORD: 6-4, lost 32-0 to Lawrenceville in 2A first round PLAYERS TO WATCH: Ryan Archibald, Jr., RB OUTLOOK: Cesaretti does a good job of getting Nokomis prepared every year, and it only helps that the Prarie State is a weak conference. The offense will be led by Archibald, who rushed for 652 yards his sophomore season. But it’s a smaller roster this year as Nokomis no longer coops with Ramsey. That’ll help if the Redkins get to the playoffs, as they’ll firmly be in 1A instead of 2A/3A. Schedule Aug 28 — at Monticello Sep 5 — Seneca Sep 11 — at Pawnee Sep 18 — Alton Marquette Sep 25 — at Edwardsville Metro East Lutheran Oct 2 — at Bunker Hill Oct 9 — South Fork Oct 16 — Mount Olive Oct 23 — at East Alton-Wood River
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FOOTBALL 2015
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QUARTERBACKS TO WATCH Brandon Wildman, Sr. Monticello
he can improve his completion rate -49.8 percent -- the Warriors will be a severe headache to figure out.
Wildman has the height and arm to garner D-I attention and he’s backed it up on the field. The senior led the area in completions (212) and yards (3,198) to go along with 31 touchdowns last year. He won’t have to develop chemistry too much this year -- most of his receivers are back as well.
Braden Smith, Jr., Mattoon
Brock Mammoser, Sr., Newton Mammoser showed off a strong, accurate arm last year, completing 54 percent of his passes for 1,293 yards and 14 touchdowns. With many of the same weapons back this year, those numbers will get even better.
Miles Hutchins, Sr., Sangamon Valley Once a small QB in the Sangamo, Hutchins brings size in the LOVC his senior year. A third-year quarterback in his second year of the double wing, Hutchins is primed for a big year. He combined for 1,500 yards and 20 touchdowns last season.
A healthy Nick Bates could put up some Player of the Year type numbers.
Nick Bates, Sr., Tuscola There may be no better all-around athlete in the area, and Bates has an outstanding supporting cast on offense. He threw for 1,877 yards and 20 touchdowns last year while missing several games. If
Who is the best player you’ve ever played against? Jack Hockaday. He’s like a Mack truck. He plays with reckless abandon. – Noah Bowers, St. Teresa
St. Teresa’s Ryan Fyke threw just five interceptions a season ago.
Clayton Strader, Sr., Arcola
Ryan Fyke, Jr., St. Teresa
The state track star is just as likely to beat you with his legs as with his arm (1,184 yards rushing to 1,205 passing). His speed is deadly, but so is his decision making. He made opponents pay when they didn’t cover receivers.
Cayleb Dehority, Jr., Eisenhower Dehority has a big arm and is hard to bring down in the running game. If Eisenhower can develop some consistent weapons to go along with Colton Lockwood, Dehority should easily top his 1,004 passing yards, 500 rushing yards and 12 total touchdowns from last year.
With Jared Pilson gone, Smith stepped in and improved every week for the Wave. The sophomore threw for 2,268 yards at a pretty good clip -- he completed 59.8 percent of his passes. Like Wildman, he certainly has the size to play the position, but he’ll have to find new targets with the top four Mattoon receivers graduated.
We had a goal to limit him to about 5 tackles and under, but he ended up with about 16. – Logan Allsup, Maroa-Forsyth
Jaquay Owens when he was with Eisenhower. He was phenomenal. Jason Pokalsey, Central – Adam Macke, A&M. He is the fastest playMacArthur er I’ve ever played against. – Ethan Lehmann, Corey Carver from Casey St. Teresa because he made me work the hardest and challenged Jack Hockaday, based on me the best on blocking. what he can do defensively. – Brody Steber, Newton And he is a tank on offense. You can’t stop him. Jake Handley, St. Teresa. He – Brandon Wildman, is extremely hard to block. Monticello
Isaac Elkins, Sr., Casey-Westfield Elkins gave Casey another dimension last season with his ability to pass the ball, particularly as the season went on last year. For a run-first team, Elkins still produced massive numbers -- 1,842 yards and 21 touchdowns on 92 completions.
Fyke got an early start thanks to the opening at QB last year, and he made the most of it. Tim Brilley showed confidence in the sophomore, letting him throw in crucial moments or take the ball himself. His respectable line of 80for-158 passing for 1,253 yards and 12 TD is good, but it’s the just five interceptions on 158 attempts that stands out.
Amir Brummett, So., MacArthur
Elkins
There will be times Brummett looks like a sophomore playing against upperclassmen in the Central State 8. But MacArthur coach Derek Spates said by the time Brummett leaves MacArthur, he’ll be in the class of former Generals quarterbacks like Robert Smith, Devan Ingram and ShawnTrez Spates.
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FOOTBALL 2015
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RUNNING BACKS TO WATCH
What’s your favorite pregame music? I’m a huge rap fan. For a specific artist, Biggie (Notorious B.I.G.). My favorite song is called “Who Shot Ya?”
– Brant Knowles, Cerro Gordo-Bement
Wyatt Fishel has the ability to be an explosive play-maker for Arcola this season.
Wyatt Fishel, Sr., Arcola
Chad Howell, Sr., Maroa-Forsyth
He might be better on the defensive side, which is saying something considering the small but powerful Fishel rushed for 1,426 yards — the most by a returning back in the area — and punched in a whopping 27 touchdowns.
With No. 9 gone, there’s a lot of production that needs to be replaced. Howell brings the most experience to the Trojans as the senior carried the ball 133 times for 754 yards. Now’s the time to show No. 1 back ability.
Alex Cooley, Jr., Clinton
Bobby Bradley, Sr., Vandalia
Cooley playoffs.
Cooley averaged five yards per carry and totalled 647 yards as a sophomore. With a year’s experienced and a more solid offensive line in front of him, Cooley could break out for a big year. He’ll need to if Clinton is going to get back the
Dalton Grohler, Jr., Cerro Gordo-Bement Grohler has the vision and power to excel behind an outstanding Broncos offensive line. He averaged 6.42 yards on 107 carries last year and led the team with 12 touchdowns.
Kaleb Williams, Jr., Tuscola
Williams
A bruiser last year as a sophomore, Williams will be even tougher to take down this year. He’s also a solid linebacker on defense and gave the Warriors a QB2 option when Nick Bates was out.
Zach Jarrett, Jr., St. Teresa Jarrett opened eyes last year after being an unknown to contending for the rushing title through much of the year. He mixed his speed and instincts with experience as the season wore on. Jarrett had nearly 8 yards a carry while rushing for 1,311 yards.
With Collin Nestleroad gone at quarterback, having a seasoned running back like Bradley back will provide a nice starting point on offense. He rushed for 931 yards last season and helped Vandalia bounce back from a poor season.
Wyatt Beals, Sr., Sangamon Valley Beals blends speed with power, but he wasn’t able to show off too much after going down with an injury early in the year. His speed around the outside as a wing makes defenses have to respect him, and opens up the rest of the Storm offense.
Wyatt Royce, Jr., Sangamon Valley A speed back with solid hands, Royce took on a heavy load last year and led the team in both rushing (628 yards) and receiving (379 yards) last year. A healthy Beals to take some of the attention off will make the versatile Royce even Royce more effective.
Last year, the seniors picked what we listened to. We listened to a lot of dubstep for our locker room music.
– Logan Allsup, Maroa-Forsyth
You’re going to think I’m joking when I say this, but I listen to the soundtrack from the Sound of Music. It calms me down.
– Noah Bowers, St. Teresa
I like to listen to Beast by Tech N9ne.
– Jackson Allen, LSA
We have a really weird mix. But one song we always listen to is The Lion Sleeps Tonight. We get the whole team in the locker room listening to that song.
– Brandon Wildman, Monticello
– Ethan Lehmann, St. Teresa
Can’t Smile Without You and Sweet Caroline
– Gabe Kent, Warrensburg-Latham
Usually just hip hop. Any kind.
– Jacob Overton, Clinton
Anything hard rock. Something that gets you pumped and ready.
– Collin Underwood, Clinton
I like the hip-hop, kind of rap thing. My favorite song to listen to is Ride Out by Kid Ink.
– Briley Housh, LSA
I like rap – it gets me hyped. Definitely Lil Wayne.
– Jamar Jones, MacArthur
Metal, stuff like that. Anything that gets us excited and ready to go.
– Andrew Kelley, Clinton
GOOD LUCK TO ALL DECATUR AND AREA HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL TEAMS.
Mitch Bierman, Jr., Newton Bierman’s ability to make tacklers miss made him a headache for opponents last year. He’s packed on some muscle during the offseason and will be an even bigger challenge Little Illini Conference defenses to bring down this year.
I’m into alternative and grunge rock. (What’s the one song you jam out to?) Smells Like Teen Spirit by Nirvana
HAVE A FUN, SAFE AND DRUG FREE SEASON JAY SCOTT
Macon County State’s Attorney
www.sa-macon-il.us
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RECEIVERS TO WATCH Most high school receivers never reach 1,000 yards and Freemon did it all in his junior year. Freemon has breakaway speed (more than 300 yards against Tolono Unity) and great hands.
part about being a football player?
Logan Allsup, Jr., Maroa-Forsyth Allsup’s position title might be more accurate as: offense -- he can play anywhere. The sophomore made the most out of plenty of short passes from Jack Hockaday last year. Hauling in a whopping 50 Allsup catches for 540 yards, Allsup has the size and speed to outmanuever almost any defender.
I just love the sport so much. We’re such a team and we rely on each other so much. – Collin Underwood, Clinton It’s a great game. I love to play with my friends that I’ve known since I was little. It’s amazing to be out on Friday nights under the lights. – Ethan Lehmann, St. Teresa
Gage Miller, Jr., Olney
Joe Stone, Jr., Newton Stone was the Eagles’ big-play threat last year, hauling on six touchdowns with an average of 14.1 yards per catch.
Brandon Price, Jr., Mount Zion Price has the ability to be a dominating force in the Braves’ offense. If he can unlock the potential this year, his numbers – good last year with 526 yards and 7 TDs – will explode.
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What’s the best
Noah Freemon, Sr., Monticello
A big-play receiver for the Tigers last year as a sophomore, Miller averaged more than 16 yards per catch and gives Olney something to build heading into this season.
FOOTBALL 2015
Dalton Hoel should vastly improve on his two touchdown catches from a year ago. ing corps and an offense that will see plenty of new faces this year.
Corey Carver, Sr., Casey-Westfield With Isaac Elkins having a year of experience at QB, Carver should be accounted for at all times on the field. The 6-foot-5, 220 pound senior can bulldoze his way through Little Illini defenses all season.
You get to take out anger if you have any. There is a lot of discipline. Cameraderie. Team work. All of those benefits. Also, it’s a brotherhood kind of thing. – Noah Bowers, St. Teresa Probably connecting with friends and creating a family ... definitely being under the Friday Night Lights is by far the best thing. – Caleb Witkin, Newton Getting to bond with my team, and the brotherhood. Getting to have a good time with friends and looking out for each other on the field. – Jackson Allen, LSA
Dalton Hoel, So., Tuscola The Warriors’ atom of energy made defenses look foolish as a freshman. Now with a year of experience, Hoel — who had 40 catches for 586 yards — will play an even larger role in Tuscola’s offense and will likely be a favorite target of QB Nick Bates.
Alec Ballinger, Sr., Sullivan-Okaw Valley Ballinger has the height, strength and athleticism to get to balls most receivers can’t, and has the ability to make things happen after he catches it as he showed last year in racking up 530 yards receiving and five touchdowns. Colton Lockwood will team with Cayleb Dehority to be a dangerous duo.
Colton Lockwood, Sr., Eisenhower He and Cayleb Dehority combined for several huge gains — Lockwood averaged more than 20 yards per catch. If he can add the element of a possession receiver, that will help transform Eisenhower’s offense.
Max Gensler, Sr., Mount Zion He never had the monster game some of his teammates had, but Gensler was just as reliable. He’ll help lead a receiv-
Jordan Smith, Sr., Shelbyville Smith flew under the radar last year with Devin Peterson eating up most of the catches. But Smith still managed 338 yards and seven touchdowns, and coach Mark Ramsey said Smith’s height (6-3), athletic ability and hands give him the ablity to be an elite receiver.
Marcus Zimmerman, So., Vandalia Zimmerman was one of the area’s most explosive players last year and he was just a freshman. He had just 20 catches, but 10 of them were touchdowns and he averaged 25.4 yards per catch.
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FOOTBALL 2015
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LINEMEN TO WATCH Caleb Cloe, Sr., Shelbyville The 5-foot-9, 225-pound Cloe is a powerhouse at tackle for the Rams, and he’ll be counted on for leadership with the Rams starting several sophomores – including a couple on the line.
Dalton Pantier, Jr., Arcola
Pantier
The Riders have tons of speed and players capable of throwing, catching and running the ball, but they also have a strong offensive line led by Pantier.
tem and has been effective blocking in it since he was a freshman. The holes will be there for Broncos’ running backs.
Tyler Walker, Jr., Cerro Gordo-Bement Walker is an effective lineman on both sides of the ball, racking up 66 tackles on the line last year and blocking for an offense that rushed for more than 2,100 yards last year.
Keagan Kibler, Sr., Tuscola
A.J. Duff, Sr., Warrensburg-Latham Duff is among the strongest players in the area and has good quickness to go along with that size, which he uses effectively on offense and defense.
Cole Hutton, Sr., Arcola Hutton will be counted on to help Arcola control the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball.
Brant Knowles, Sr., Cerro Gordo-Bement In his fourth year as a starter, Knowles knows coach Andy Kerley’s sys-
Kibler
Kibler anchors an impressive offensive line that should lead to big scoring numbers this year, and he’s also one of the Warriors’ best defensive linemen with 10 tackles for loss last year.
Mason Lee, Sr., Arthur-Lovington-Atwood-Hammond
Caleb Cloe will be the anchor of a young Shelbyville line.
The 215-pound Lee gives the Knights some toughness and experience on both sides of the line.
gives the Hearts some much-needed experience and leadership.
Griffin Paige, Jr., Effingham
Brett Currey, Sr., Casey-Westfield
What Paige lacks in size he makes up for in quickness and toughness. And on a team with few players returning, he
DEFENDERS TO WATCH Jamar Jones, Sr., DB, MacArthur
A unanimous first-team CIC defensive end last year, Ray will be one of the most feared opponents in the CIC.
Jones isn’t a big guy, but he brings a big punch. A smart, tough, athletic player, Jones will lead by example for a young Generals team.
Reed
With so many players to replace, Reed is important cog to have. Big and experienced, Reed will be counted on to stop both the run and the pass for the Generals.
Ethan Lehmann, Sr., DB, St. Teresa Lehmann’s one of the best at sticking with receivers, but the corner can also shed bigger receivers’ blocks to get to the ball carrier.
Brandon Owens-Price, Sr., DL, Maroa-Forsyth
JR Menezes, Jr., DL, Cerro Gordo-Bement Menezes plays with a frenzy that offenses struggle to control. His main job is to get to the ballcarrier behind the line of scrimmage and he excels at that, racking up 13 tackles for loss last year.
Josh Carnahan, Sr., DB, Mount Zion Coach Mike Popovich loves the speed of his defense, and Carnahan is a big part of that. He’s also effective in forcing turnovers, with two interceptions and two forced fumbles last year.
Jacob Burton, Sr., DB, Monticello Burton was a solid receiver last year and will be counted on for even more offensive production next year. But his strength is on defense, where last year he was second on the team in tackles and had seven tackles for loss.
Owens-Price
The 245-pound Woolsey will help block for what could be an explosive Vandals offense this season, but he makes his biggest impact at defensive tackle, where he had 14 tackles for loss last season.
Most playoff trips
Most wins in the new millennium
Dalace Ray, Sr., Sullivan-Okaw Valley
Drake Reed, Sr., DL, MacArthur
Currey leads the new-look Casey line. He’s not very big (180 pounds), but he knows coach Tom Monken’s system and is a co-captain.
Kendrick Woolsey, Sr., Vandalia
At close to 240 pounds and even stronger than last year, Owens-Price will be a focal point of opposing offenses. Keeping him out of the backfield won’t be easy.
Brett Langen, Sr., LB, Taylorville
Casey-Westfield Tuscola Maroa-Forsyth St. Teresa Mount Zion Cerro Gordo Central A&M Arthur-Lovington Newton Monticello Effingham Taylorville Arcola Argenta-Oreana Charleston
149 144 133 120 104 99 95 91 85 85 84 83 80 76 75
Casey-Westfield St. Teresa Arcola Mount Zion Tuscola Cerro Gordo Maroa-Forsyth Effingham Central A&M Monticello Argenta-Oreana Taylorville Charleston Robinson Nokomis Pana Newton Mattoon Shelbyville MacArthur
GOOD LUCK, BRAVES!
The Tornadoes lost a large, successful senior class, but Langen is a good guy to rebuild around. He led the team in tackles (122) and tackles for loss (18) last year, and also had two interceptions.
Mason Hutchins, Sr., LB, Sangamon Valley Hutchins is a solid offensive weapon for the Storm, putting up more than 500 yards rushing and receiving last year. But his strength is defense. He’s the team’s leading returning tackler and will be counted on for even more this year.
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FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015 Pizza isn’t a good thing to eat before a football game, but that’s what I go with. It’s the best.
– Adam Macke, MacArthur
On Thursday nights, we usually have people that cook for us. I don’t really remember exactly what they make, but it’s more of the dessert for me. It’s the cheesecake.
What’s your favorite pregame meal? Subway, I get a footlong with ham, salami, and American cheese on Italian.
– Brandon Wildman, Monticello
Lasagna. It is so good.
– Logan Allsup, Maroa-Forsyth
Spaghetti. It’s my favorite. – Brant Knowles, Cerro Gordo-Bement Tortellini from La Gondola.
– Ethan Lehmann, St. Teresa
We usually have sandwiches. Ham and such — which is our better option especially before a game.
– Andrew Kelley, Clinton
– Caleb Witkin, Newton
FOOTBALL 2015
GOOD LUCK ARGENTA-OREANA BOMBERS!
Well my freshman year, they started fixing us noodles, mashed potatoes, a lot of corn, and we got a small dessert. That’s good.
– Briley Housh, LSA
Maybe a hamburger from my friend’s grandma’s house.
– Brody Steber, Newton
I eat real light before the game. Usually an energy bar or a banana.
– Jamar Jones, MacArthur
Grilled chicken. It digests well before a game.
A-O BOOSTER CLUB 500 N. Main Street Argenta, IL 62501
– Collin Underwood, Clinton
Spaghetti for sure.
– Gabe Kent, Warrensburg-Latham
GOOD LUCK ALL AREA HIGH SCHOOLS! A
HAVE A GREAT SEASON!
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I would do the cat daddy.
What is your touchdown celebration if you weren’t penalized?
– Ethan Lehmann, St. Teresa
I’m not sure. Probably just running around and showboating. – Andrew Kelley, Clinton
I don’t have ability to do this, but I would attempt to dunk on the goal post. – Brant Knowles, Cerro Gordo-Bement
Do you know The Replacements? There’s a guy on there and he’s got a football stuck to his hand like a gun and he shoots his teammate and he falls. I’d have to say that. Or maybe
Whip with a teammate!
Dunk the football over – Briley Housh, LSA the goal post.
I would definitely do the “Whip”
I’d probably just spike the ball or maybe if I were taller, I’d dunk it over the field goal post. – Jacob Overton, Clinton
Probably the killer Superman, you know? Where he rips open his shirt and there’s the ‘S.’ Probably that. – Jackson Allen, LSA
Punting the football. – Brandon Wildman, Monticello
– Collin Underwood, Clinton
I’m not really one of those guys. I would probably Spike the ball. – AJ Duff, Warrensburg-Latham – Caleb Witkin, Newton give the ball to one of the fans in the student section. I would probably run over to I would do the “Whip/Nae – Logan Allsup, Maroa-Forsyth their side line and give the ball Nae”. I’d probably just flex. – Gabe Kent, to the coach. Warrensburg-Latham
– Noah Bowers, St. Teresa
Decatur Public Schools
Educating for Success
WE ARE #DPSproud
– Jamar Jones, MacArthur
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PAST AWARD WINNERS AREA FOOTBALL PLAYER OF THE YEAR
Dale Schuring was the top area coach in 2003.
AREA FOOTBALL COACH OF THE YEAR 1966 - Jack Klosterman, Effingham 1967 - Larry Beavers, Bement 1968 - Gene McDonald, Lincoln 1969 - Chuck Dickerson, Mattoon and Merv Baker, Charleston 1970 - Jerry Smalling, Illiopolis 1971 - Jack Klosterman, Effingham 1972 - Bill Estes, Cerro Gordo 1973 - Max Ward, Shelbyville 1974 - Bob Herrmann, Mount Zion 1975 - Bob Johnson, Cumberland 1976 - Larry Engle, Argenta-Oreana 1977 - Steve Thomas, Arcola 1978 - Steve Thomas, Arcola 1979 - Chuck Budde, Charleston 1980 - John Lyons, Atwood-Hammond 1981 - Fred Thompson, Maroa-Forsyth 1982 - Keith Sinclair, Casey-Westfield 1983 - Denny O’Boyle, Shelbyville 1984 - Ron Goodwin, Clinton 1985 - Keith Sinclair, Casey-Westfield 1986 - Larry Bienias, Tuscola 1987 - Kevin Crandall, Bethany 1988 - Hud Venerable, Monticello 1989 - Mark Ramsey, Moweaqua 1990 - Hud Venerable, Monticello 1991 - Terry Roche, Robinson 1992 - Mark Ramsey, Central A&M 1993 - Mark Ramsey, Central A&M 1994 - Scott Alberssen, Taylorville 1995 - Joe Marks, Arcola 1996 - Mark Ramsey, Central A&M 1997 - Mark Ramsey, Central A&M 1998 - Mick Roberts, Casey-Westfield 1999 - Bob Horst, Newton 2000 - Mark Ramsey, Central A&M 2001 - Mark Ramsey, Central A&M 2002 - John Beccue, Monticello 2003 - Dale Schuring, Arthur-Lovington 2004 - Rick Woolverton, Shelbyville 2005 - Bob Horst, Newton 2006 - Stan Wienke, Tuscola 2007 - Jarod Kiger, Arcola 2008 - Keith Sinclair, Casey-Westfield 2009 - Rick Reinhart, Tuscola 2010 - Al Stupek, Pana 2011 - Brian Halsey, Charleston 2012 - Matt Music, Olney 2013 - Cully Welter, Monticello 2014 - Zack Zehr, Arcola
1966 - Jerry Hemphill, Flora (FB) 1967 - Don Langley, Effingham (LB) 1968 - Larry Huisinga, DeLand-Weldon (HB) 1969 - Steve Hagenbruch, Clinton (QB) 1970 - Larry Ring, Tuscola (QB) 1971 - Steve Melton, Villa Grove (HB-LB) 1972 - Mark Calvin, Sullivan (QB) 1973 - Bob Lockart, Shelbyville (QB) 1974 - Rod Sink, Mattoon (QB) 1975 - Robin Bone, Vandalia (FB-LB) 1976 - Robin Bone, Vandalia (FB-LB) 1977 - Craig Donna, Charleston (C-LB) 1978 - Jeff Fishel, Arcola (HB) 1979 - Ed Walker, Mount Zion (QB) 1980 - Charlie Vinson, Monticello (HB) 1981 - Greg Thompson, Maroa-Forsyth (QB) 1982 - Steve Bates, Tuscola (RB) 1983 - Scott Johnson, Newton (QB-DB) 1984 - Jeff Finke, Casey-Westfield (WR) 1985 - Mike Davis, Arcola (TE-LB) 1986 - Jim Brookins, Tuscola (FL) 1987 - Kurt Endebrock, Effingham (QB-DB) 1988 - Drew Daniels, Shelbyville (RB-LB-P) 1989 - Heath Weddle, Monticello (RB-DB-P) 1990 - Willie High, Mattoon (RB) 1991 - Mark Monahan, Arcola (RB-LB) 1992 - Brad Coffman, Central A&M (RB-DB) 1993 - Kevin Trimble, Mattoon (WR) 1994 - Steve Duzan, Marshall (RB) 1995 - Luke Tillman, Central A&M (RB) 1996 - Dusty Burk, Tuscola (QB) 1997 - Dusty Burk, Tuscola (QB) 1998 - Kolin Peterson, Arcola (RB) 1999 - Jared Grant, Arthur-Lovington (QB) 2000 - Kenny Hogue, Tuscola (RB) 2001 - Brock Boltz, Central A&M (RB) 2002 - Pat Striegel, Monticello (RB) 2003 - D.J. Walker, Mattoon (RB) 2004 - Jake Semple, Newton (QB) 2005 - Jake Semple, Newton (QB) 2006 - Levi Richards, Newton (WR-DB) 2007 - John Wienke, Tuscola (QB) 2008 - Taylor Biggs, Casey-Westfield (WR/TB) 2009 - Evan Hayes, Central A&M (RB) 2010 - Cody Shelmadine, Tuscola (WR) 2011 - Philip Meyer, Tuscola (QB) 2012 - Sean Hussey, Charleston (QB) 2013 - Jared Pilson, Mattoon (QB) 2014 - Tanner Champley, Taylorville (QB)
Mike Davis was the man for Arcola in 1985.
MACON COUNTY FOOTBALL COACH OF THE YEAR 1966 - John Alexander, Eisenhower 1967 - John Alexander, Eisenhower 1968 - John Alexander, Eisenhower 1969 - Jim Tate, Stephen Decatur 1970 - Dick Munn, St. Teresa 1971 - Dick Munn, St. Teresa 1972 - Bob Matheson, MacArthur 1973 - Dick Munn, St. Teresa 1974 - Ed Boehm, St. Teresa 1975 - John Alexander, Eisenhower 1976 - Frank Chizevsky, Stephen Decatur 1977 - No award given 1978 - Dominic Riccordino, St. Teresa 1979 - Ralph McQuiggan, St. Teresa 1980 - Ed Boehm, Lakeview 1981 - Ed Boehm, Lakeview 1982 - Ted Phelps, Mount Zion 1983 - Fred Thompson, Maroa-Forsyth 1984 - Craig Bundy, St. Teresa 1985 - Brian Hodges, MacArthur 1986 - Dennis Gatchel, Macon 1987 - John Alexander, Warrensburg-Latham 1988 - Ted Phelps, Mount Zion 1989 - Bill Vangel, MacArthur 1990 - Ted Phelps, Mount Zion 1991 - Scott Davis, St. Teresa 1992 - Steve Smith, Eisenhower 1993 - Scott Davis, St. Teresa 1994 - Paul Workman, Cerro Gordo 1995 - Scott Davis, St. Teresa 1996 - Scott Davis, St. Teresa 1997 - Tim Nolen, Mount Zion 1998 - Skip Mathieson, Illiopolis 1999 - Dennis Gatchel, Meridian 2000 - Tim Nolen, Mount Zion 2001 - Cordell Ingram, MacArthur 2002 - Tom Saunches, Argenta-Oreana 2003 - Tom Saunches, Argenta-Oreana 2004 - Josh Jostes, Maroa-Forsyth 2005 - Scott Davis, St. Teresa 2006 - Josh Jostes, Maroa-Forsyth 2007 - Scott Davis, St. Teresa 2008 - Dave Smith, Mount Zion 2009 - Josh Jostes, Maroa-Forsyth 2010 - Josh Jostes, Maroa-Forsyth 2011 - Andy Kerley, Cerro Gordo 2012 - Josh Jostes, Maroa-Forsyth 2013 - Andy Kerley, Cerro Gordo 2014 - Michael Lee, Sangamon Valley
John Alexander of Eisenhower was the first recipient of the coach of the year award.
Antwan Perry baffled opponents during the 1993 season.
MACON COUNTY FOOTBALL PLAYER OF THE YEAR 1966 - Thurman Jelks, Eisenhower 1967 - Tyrone Cooper, Stephen Decatur 1968 - Bill Madlock, Eisenhower (RB) 1969 - Jim Hrodey, Stephen Decatur 1970 - Jerry Unser, St. Teresa (QB) 1971 - Mike O’Connell, St. Teresa (HB) 1972 - Bob Norton, St. Teresa (OG-LB) 1973 - Mike O’Connell, St. Teresa (HB) 1974 - Marty Bushell, St. Teresa (HB) 1975 - Chris Schroth, St. Teresa (LB) 1976 - Steve Turner, St. Teresa (WR) 1977 - Mark Cooley, Eisenhower (FB-DE) 1978 - Craig White, Stephen Decatur (FL-DB) 1979 - Ben Pothast, St. Teresa (FL-DB) 1980 - Tony Anderson, MacArthur (RB) 1981 - Mike Birge, MacArthur (OL-DL) 1982 - Don Tolly, Mount Zion (QB) 1983 - Al Lawson, MacArthur (RB) 1984 - Jeff Query, Maroa-Forsyth (WR) 1985 - Jad Mason, MacArthur (QB) 1986 - Tom Rayhill, St. Teresa (SE) 1987 - Darrell Johnson, MacArthur (RB) 1988 - Kevin Anderson, Mount Zion (DB) 1989 - Hassan Helm, MacArthur (QB-DB) 1990 - Brad Kirby, Macon (RB-LB) 1991 - Brad Kirby, Macon (RB-LB) 1992 - Greg Watchinski, Stephen Decatur (RB-DB) 1993 - Antwan Perry, Eisenhower (RB-DB) 1994 - Joe Mickle, MacArthur (RB) 1995 - Shane Overocker, St. Teresa (RB-LB) 1996 - Tony Austin, Stephen Decatur (FB-LB) 1997 - Phil Taylor Jr., Mount Zion (RB) 1998 - Clint McLeod, St. Teresa (RB) 1999 - Shane Major, Meridian (QB-DB) 2000 - Ross Guiney, Warrensburg-Latham (RB) 2001 - Brent Minick, Argenta-Oreana (RB) 2002 - Ty Morganthaler, Cerro Gordo (RB) 2003 - Akeem Topps, MacArthur (RB) 2004 - Quartus Stitt, Argenta-Oreana (RB) 2005 - Sean Dunning, St. Teresa (RB) 2006 - Sean Dunning, St. Teresa (RB) 2007 - Tyler Roush, Maroa-Forsyth (RB) 2008 - Dakota Getz, Meridian (QB-LB) 2009 - Wyatt Washburn, Maroa-Forsyth (WRDB) 2010 - Gary Scott, Maroa-Forsyth (RB) 2011 - Logan Stelzreide, Maroa-Forsyth (QB) 2012 - Jack Hockaday, Maroa-Forsyth (QBLB) 2013 - Jack Hockaday, Maroa-Forsyth (QBLB) 2014 - Jack Hockaday, Maroa-Forsyth (QB-
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