IPT High School Kickoff Coverage 2011

READY TO RUN

IPT HIGH SCHOOL KICKOFF COVERAGE 2011

SKYVIEW’S TANNER ROBISON, VALLIVUE’S MIKE BURK AND NAMPA’S DEVAN LESLEY ARE READY TO RUN.

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Jeff Reimers, PA-C Family Medicine

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To schedule an appointment with any of these skilled providers or for more information on Saint Alphonsus Medical Group, please call (208) 367-DOCS (3627).

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High School Football

A2

INSIDE Coaches polls..............................4 2010 standings...........................4 Boise Braves...............................5 Borah Lions................................5 Capital Eagles.............................5 Timberline Wolves......................5 Vallivue Falcons..........................6 Centennial Patriots.....................7 Eagle Mustangs..........................8

Meridian Warriors.......................9 Mountain View Mavericks.........10 Rocky Mountain Grizzlies.........11 Caldwell Cougars......................12 Columbia Wildcats....................13 Bishop Kelly Knights.................14 Emmett Huskies.......................15 Kuna Kavemen.........................16 Middleton Vikings....................18

Mountain Home Tigers.............19 Nampa Bulldogs.......................20 Skyview Hawks........................21 Fruitland Grizzlies.....................22 Payette Pirates.........................22 Weiser Wolverines...................22 Cole Valley Chargers................22 McCall-Donnelly Vandals..........22 Parma Panthers........................23

Homedale Trojans.....................24 Marsing Huskies.......................25 Melba Mustangs.......................26 Nampa Christian Trojans...........27 New Plymouth Pilgrims............28 Greenleaf Grizzlies....................29 Notus Pirates............................30 Wilder Wildcats........................31

REACH IPT SPORTS DESK

ONLINE

Phone: (208) 465-8111 • e-mail: sports@idahopress.com • Fax: (208) 467-9562

For the latest news all season long, read our high school content online at idahopress.com/sports and check out our high school content at idahopress.com/sports/highschool/.

Make sure to view the work of John Wustrow and Bruce Mason on our school sports blog for new information all season long.

You can also find the Idaho Press-Tribune on Facebook.

Contact prep reporters

John Wustrow

Bruce Mason

Writer/copy editor Assistant sports editor (208) 465-8174 (208) 465-8154 jwustrow@idahopress.com bmason@idahopress.com

Get the latest sports news from the Idaho Press-Tribune

idahopress. com/sports/

facebook.com/ Idaho.Press.Tribune

ON THE COVER Three of the top running backs in the Treasure Valley return this season: Nampa High’s Devan Lesley, right; Vallivue’s Mike Burk, lower right; and Skyview’s Tanner Robison, below.

Photos by Charlie Litchfield/IPT

twitter.com/ IdahoPressTrib

To submit information to the sports listings and/or Community Corner, email sports@idahopress.com. Community Corner runs in Monday editions of the paper.

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High School Football

Friday, August 26, 2011

DISTRICT III CONFERENCES: COACHES POLLS/2010 STANDINGS 5A Southern Idaho Conference

4A Southern Idaho Conference

3A Snake River Valley

2A Western Idaho Conference

1A District III Division I

2010 Standings

2010 Standings

2010 Standings

2010 Standings

2010 Standings

Division 1 Capital Eagle Mountain View Borah Meridian Caldwell

Conf.

5-0 4-1 3-2 2-3 1-4 0-5

Overall 10-1 7-3 4-5 3-5 2-6 0-10

Division II Rocky Mountain Centennial Vallivue Boise Timberline

Conf.

4-0 3-1 2-2 1-3 0-4

Overall 9-2 9-3 5-5 1-7 1-7

2011 Preseason Coaches Polls

Team First-place Votes 1. Eagle Mustangs 5 75 2. Capital Eagles 1 67 3. Centennial Patriots 1 55 4. Mountain View Mavericks - 53 5. Borah Lions 1 51 6. Rocky Mountain Grizzlies - 47 7. Meridian Warriors - 31 8. Vallivue Falcons - 29 9. Boise Braves - 18 10. Timberline Wolves - 14 Note: 8-of-10 coaches voted

Bishop Kelly Skyview Middleton Nampa Emmett Mountain Home Columbia Kuna

Conf.

7-0 6-1 4-3 4-3 3-4 2-5 2-5 0-7

2011 Preseason Coaches Polls Team 1. Skyview 2. Bishop Kelly 3. Middleton 4. Nampa 5. Columbia 6. Mountain Home 7. Emmett 8. Caldwell 9. Kuna

Overall 12-0 8-3 5-5 5-4 4-5 3-6 3-6 1-8

First-place Votes 5 52 1 46 - 44 - 36 - 27 - 20 - 17 - 14 - 11 Note: 6-of-9 coaches voted

Fruitland Weiser Homedale Parma Payette

Conf.

4-0 3-1 2-2 1-3 0-4

2011 Preseason Coaches Polls Team (1st) 1. Fruitland (4.5) 2. Weiser (.5) 3. Homedale 4. Payette 5. Parma

Overall 12-0 7-4 6-3 5-4 2-6 Votes 24.5 19.5 13 11 7

Note: All five coaches voted

Conf.

New Plymouth Nampa Christian McCall-Donnelly Marsing Cole Valley Melba

5-0 4-1 3-2 2-3 1-4 0-5

2011 Preseason Coaches Polls Team 1. Marsing 2. McCall-Donnelly 3. Nampa Christian 4. New Plymouth 5. Cole Valley Christian 6. Melba

First-place 4 1 - - - -

Overall

9-2 6-4 4-4 3-6 1-7 0-8 Votes 29 24 19 17 9 7

Note: 5-of-6 coaches voted

4A SIC FAST FACTS: Following Bishop Kelly’s state championship last season, coach Lee Leslie resigned and the Knights hired another state championship coach: Tim Brennan. Brennan returned to BK after one season at Caldwell. See page 14

5A SIC FAST FACTS: Gone are the divisions in the 5A Southern Idaho Conference this season. The change came after Caldwell returned to the 4A SIC after spending four years competing at the Class 5A level. The 5A SIC is now left with 10 teams.

We know you need to play hard, so our Physical Therapists will get you back in the game–FAST.

Notus Rimrock Idaho City Wilder Cascade Horseshoe Bend Greenleaf

Team 1. Rimrock 2. Wilder 3. Cascade 4. Notus 5. Horseshoe Bend 5. Idaho City 7. Greenleaf

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southsidefloral.com

High School Football

Caldwell Floral 103 So. Kimball Caldwell - 459-0051

First-place Votes 4 37 2 32 - 28 - 24 - 22 - 22 - 7 Note: 6-of-7 coaches voted

1A District III Division II 2010 Standings

Salmon River Garden Valley Tri-Valley Council Meadows Valley

Game Day or Dance Coursage/Boutinere

3167 E. Greenhurst Nampa - 442-3090

Overall 9-1 4-4 4-4 4-4 3-4 3-5 0-7

2011 Preseason Coaches Polls

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Conf.

6-0 4-1 4-2 3-3 2-3 1-5 0-6

Conf.

4-0 3-1 1-3 1-3 1-3

Overall 9-2 10-2 2-6 3-6 1-7

We can match any school or dress colors!

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5A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: BOISE SCHOOLS

Simis: ‘We don’t want to be the Buffalo Bills’

By IDAHO PRESS-TRIBUNE sports@idahopress.com

© 2011 Idaho Press-Tribune

Capital High won four consecutive division championships in the 5A Southern Idaho Conference the past four season, and were a combined 38-7 over that span.

Coach Todd Simis said his team trailed less than a minute of actual game time — total —during the past two regular seasons.

In 2009, Lewiston scored early on a long pass play and Borah took an early lead before Capital returned a kick for a touchdown last year.

“We take real pride in that and we have real good tradition at Capital. That’s rear view mirror stuff,” Simis said. “We like to tell our guys that we’re looking through the windshield, not the rear view mirror.”

Five players are currently on the Boise State football team: Nickel Corey Bell, receiver Geraldo (Hiwatt) Boldewijn, tight end Kyle

Efaw, defensive end Jarrell Root and tight end Kyle Sosnowski.

Yet, with the talented players and regular season results, the Simis-led Eagles have yet to win a state championship.

Capital lost in the state title game to Meridian in 2007 and Eagle in 2009. Last year, they went 10-0, then lost to Coeur d’Alene in the semifinals, 28-24.

“It’s a little frustrating,” Simis said. “I’d be lying if I said I don’t think about it and some of our fans and our players and coaches don’t think about it. The ends of our seasons have really been tough.”

Simis said the season-ending results have been a combination of his team making mistakes and their opponents making plays.

“There’s something to be said of repeated success, but it would be nice to finish one off.

“We don’t want to be the Buffalo Bills of high school football.”

Capital returns three players

on its offensive line, the Eagles’ strength this season.

Senior center Kellen Buhr (6-1, 265) returns along side senior guards Hunter Nettles (right guard, 6-3, 290) and Paden Munson (right guard, 6-3, 295).

Nettles started for state runner-up Centennial last season.

Junior Steven Matlock (6-2, 265) is back at tackle after garnering first-team All-5A SIC honors as a sophomore in 2010.

Right tackle Brody Latham (senior, 6-5, 225) is a new starter, filling in for senior Tyler Case (5-10, 235), who moved to the defensive line this season.

Senior tight end Paul Blakely (6-0, 210-215) is back and will also be the team’s place kicker and punter. He’s the team’s only returning skill position player.

Defensively, the Eagles return two players: senior lineman Marcus Tovar (5-10, 235) and senior outside linebacker Denis Popuvnik (5-10, 205).

CAPITAL EAGLES

BORAH LIONS

Sept. 1 at Centennial 7 p.m.

Sept. 9 EAGLE 8:30 p.m.

Sept. 16 MOUNTAIN VIEW 8:30 p.m.

Sept. 23 at Vallivue 7 p.m.

Sept. 29 TIMBERLINE 7 p.m.

Oct. 6 at Rocky Mountain 7 p.m.

Oct. 14 at Meridian 7 p.m.

Oct. 21 BOISE 7 p.m.

Oct. 28 BORAH 6 p.m.

LAST YEAR: 10-1 overall, 5-0 5A SIC PLAYOFFS: Lost to Coeur d’Alene in semis, 28-24

Sept. 2 ROCKY MOUNTAIN Sept. 8 CENTENNIAL Sept. 16 at Meridian Sept. 23 BOISE Sept. 30 at Mountain View Oct. 7 at Timberline Oct. 13 EAGLE Oct. 21 at Vallivue Oct. 28 at Capital LAST YEAR: 4-5 overall, 2-3 5A SIC PLAYOFFS: Did not qualify

TIMBERLINE WOLVES

BOISE BRAVES

Sept. 2 at Eagle Sept. 9 ROCKY MOUNTAIN Sept. 16 at Centennial Sept. 22 MOUNTAIN VIEW Sept. 29 at Capital Oct. 7 BORAH Oct. 14 VALLIVUE Oct. 20 MERIDIAN Oct. 28 at Boise LAST YEAR: 1-8, 0-4 5A SIC PLAYOFFS: Did not qualify

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Sept. 1 MERIDIAN Sept. 9 at Vallivue Sept. 16 EAGLE Sept. 23 at Borah Sept. 30 ROCKY MOUNTAIN Oct. 6 MOUNTAIN VIEW Oct. 14 at Centennial Oct. 21 at Capital Oct. 28 TIMBERLINE LAST YEAR: 1-8 overall, 1-3 5A SIC PLAYOFFS: Did not qualify

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High School Football

Friday, August 26, 2011

5A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: VALLIVUE FALCONS 2010 RESULTS

Sept. 3 at Kuna Sept. 10 at Borah Sept. 17 CALDWELL Sept. 24 vs. Boise (at BSU) Oct. 1 TIMBERLINE Oct. 8 COEUR D’ALENE Oct. 15 at Centennial Oct. 22 ROCKY MOUNTAIN ^ Oct. 29 at Eagle * Nov. 5 vs. Capital (at BSU) ^ District Playoff Game * State Playoff Game

W 49-0 W 48-34 W 56-7 W 50-21 W 54-27 L 37-20 L 42-12 L 49-7 L 21-15 L 40-0

Falcons aim for a run to the top

2011 SCHEDULE Oct. 26 Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept. 16 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 6 Oct. 15 Oct. 21 Oct. 28

at Caldwell at Mountain View BOISE at Rocky Mountain CAPITAL CENTENNIAL at Eagle vs. Timberline (at BSU) BORAH at Meridian

TEAM FACTS COACH: Layne Coffin, 6th season, 32-16 LAST YEAR: 5-5, 2-2 5A SIC Division I PLAYOFFS: Lost to Capital in quarterfinals

OFFENSE

DEFENSE Six starters return on a defense, which Coffin will hand over to new defensive coordinator Tim Stanley.

The Falcons will run out of a base-four front, which will change week-to-week, Coffin said.

“He’s been a coach on some really good teams in Southeastern Idaho,” Coffin said about Stanley, who was last at Kuna. “I’ve known him for 20 years and for me, personally, he brings a whole lot of experience and knowledge, and you can’t beat that.”

Friday, August 26, 2011

Mike Burk, Sr., RB/LB Burk averaged 9.5 yards per carry to lead the conference in rushing during the regular season with 1,601 yards. Including district and state playoffs, he finished with 1,764 yards.

He spent the first six weeks of the offseason in a knee brace after suffering a slight tear in his right knee during the Falcons’ playoff loss to Capital.

Burk was a second-team All-5A SIC selection last season.

Ringo Robinson, Sr., RB/LB Robinson proved to be a reliable No. 2 running back a year ago, when he rushed for 841 yards and seven touchdowns.

He was seventh in the league in rushing during the regular season, earning honorable mention all-conference honors.

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Vallivue led the conference in total offensive yards last season, despite ranking 10th out of 11 teams in passing. But coach Layne Coffin thinks the Falcons can be more balanced this year.

Through two-a-days seniors Jamari Rogers and Evan Johnson were battling for the starting quarterback job.

“We feel we’re really fortunate to have the guys that we have,” Coffin said.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Charlie Litchfield/IPT

Vallivue tailback Ringo Robinson rushed for 841 yards and seven touchdowns as a junior.

Two top rushers return to Vallivue for senior seasons

By JOHN WUSTROW jwustrow@idahopress.com

© 2011 Idaho Press-Tribune

Early on last season, it was apparent that the success of the Vallivue offense would be in its running game.

The same should be true this year, the difference is now opponents have an idea who will be running the ball.

The 2010 season was a breakout year for Mike Burk and Ringo Robinson, who both finished as top 10 rushers in the 5A Southern Idaho Conference. Both are back for

their senior years, and along with junior Sean Davis provide the Falcons with a solid running attack to go along with a Layne passing attack Coffin they hope to utilize more this season.

“I feel good about the guys we have,” coach Layne Coffin said. “We have Sean Davis and Ringo and Michael and

High School Football

we have (receivers) Jake Boyd and Parker Garner coming back.”

Behind Burk, Robinson and the departed Dillon Danos, Vallivue rushed for more than 3,503 yards as a team and started the season 5-0. But the Falcons sputtered down the stretch, losing their last four, including a loss to Capital in the first round of the state playoffs.

“We need confidence, I know we could have won those games if we were confident,” Burk said.

Jake Boyd, Sr., WR/DB A four-year varsity player, Boyd was a second team all-conference selection last year at both receiver and defensive back despite being injured the first few games.

He had 21 catches for 537 yards during the regular season, catching eight touchdown passes and also had three interceptions.

“He’s just such a fluid type of athlete,” coach Layne Coffin said. “He’s got great skills. When he’s healthy, he’s pretty tough.”

David Teofilo, Sr., OL/DL Teofilo was an honorable mention all-conference player, leading an offensive line which opened holes for the Falcons’ potent rushing attack. He’ll be a leader on the line which Coffin said is even deeper this year. “(Seniors) know this is it,” Coffin said.

“They’re going to get down and get to work and get focused. He’s been that.”

The coach added that he thinks Teofilo is talented enough to play somewhere in college.

A6

2010 RESULTS Sept. 2 Sept. 10 Sept. 17 Sept. 24 Sept. 30 Oct. 8 Oct. 15 Oct. 22 ^Oct. 29 *Nov. 5 *Nov. 12 *Nov. 19

Eagle Mountain View Meridian Highland Boise Rocky Mountain Vallivue Timberline Mountain View Highland Rocky Mountain Coeur d’Alene

L 42-25 W 56-42 W 41-7 W 41-14 W 42-21 L 16-13 W 42-12 W 41-13 W 42-11 W 39-27 W 35-33 L 28-7

^ District Playoff Game * State Playoff Game

5A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: CENTENNIAL PATRIOTS

Championship on Pats’ minds

2011 SCHEDULE Sept. 1 Sept. 8 Sept. 16 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 7 Oct. 14 Oct. 21 Oct. 28

CAPITAL at Borah TIMBERLINE at Eagle at Vallivue MERIDIAN BOISE MOUNTAIN VIEW at Rocky Mountain

OFFENSE

DEFENSE

Centennial features three returning starters in the secondary, including all-state cornerback Drew Pooley, and two solid defensive linemen in Jake Mendenhall and Landon Kissinger.

Tom Sant is the safety and Malik Hill is the free safety on a unit that will likely have to carry the team early in the season.

“We hope,” Neumann said. “If you can keep people from scoring too many times, you’re certainly in most games.”

Said Kissinger: “Our defense is solid and we’ve got a lot of guys back. We definitely bring it hard and never stop. That’s our trademark.”

A7

Garrett Garner, Sr., RB Garner takes over Mike Kirby’s role as the feature back and will see a lot of the football this season. He rushed for 604 yards as a junior and could double that output this season. He also provides experience at a position that is lean on veteran players.

“He’s our only returning running back,” said coach Lee Neumann, who likes Garner’s blend of speed and strength.

Matt Fisher, Sr., RB He qualifies as a possible breakout player due to Centennial’s lack of experience in terms of offensive skill players.

Fisher will line up in the backfield or as a wing.

“He’s very elusive, fast, and really good in open space,” Neumann said. “We’re going to try to get him the ball in the open field. He’s got really good speed.”

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Running back Garrett Garner and offensive lineman Alex Irish are the two returning starters from a team that averaged 35.3 points per game a year ago behind star running back Mike Kirby and quarterback Trent Godsey.

“We’re very young on offense,” coach Lee Neumann said. “I think that’s going to take a little bit of time.”

Garner averaged more than six yards a carry last season and will team with the elusive Fisher to give the Patriots a strong running attack.

Junior quarterbacks Darian Seifert and Evan Radke were waging a tight competition for the starting job.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Adam Eschbach/IPT

Centennial High coach Lee Neumann has guided the Patriots to three state titles and two runner-up finishes.

By MIKE SULLIVAN

that close last year and it makes it that much more intense going into this season,” senior Centennial High lost in the 5A state title running back Matt Fisher said. “We want it game last fall and the expectation is to make a that bad. We know we’re capable of it. We just run at returning to the championship contest have to work hard to get there and we know this season. the hard work it takes to get to that level after Doesn’t matter that only two offensive going through it last year.” starters are back from the Coach Lee Neumann team that lost to Coeur is getting reinforcements d’Alene in the finale, or from a junior-varsity team COACH: Lee Neumann, 22nd season, 156-67 that Eagle High has been that went unbeaten last LAST YEAR: 9-3, 3-1 5A SIC tabbed the favorite behind PLAYOFFS: Lost to Coeur d’Alene in state championship season to blend in with the all-everything quarterback holdovers.

Tanner Mangum.

“This group comes The Patriots have a out of a team that played for a state chamsolid group of defensive players back and are pionship last year,” Neumann said. “So the still drawing inspiration from last season’s ac- younger guys kind of know and have seen complishments. what it takes to play in that final.”

“It is a lot of motivation because we were sports@idahopress.com

TEAM FACTS

High School Football

Drew Pooley, Sr., CB Pooley earned all-state honors last season when he intercepted six passes as a junior. He makes it risky for quarterbacks to throw the ball in his direction.

“He has played a lot the last few years,” Neumann said. “He’s really good in man coverage. Very athletic and quick, and he has great instincts, too.” Pooley will also see time on offense at receiver.

Jake Mendenhall, Sr., DL The third-year starter had four sacks and recovered two fumbles last season and is one of the top defensive linemen in the area. His veteran leadership is crucial to Centennial’s defense.

“He’s very athletic and he runs well,” Neumann said. “Very physical, strong kid. He has maturity and leadership. The experience factor really makes him good.”

Mendenhall will also start on the offensive line.

Friday, August 26, 2011

2010 RESULTS Sept. 2 Sept. 10 Sept. 17 Sept. 23 Oct. 1 Oct. 7 Oct. 15 Oct. 22 ^ Oct. 29 * Nov. 5

at Centennial W 42-25 ROCKY MOUNTAIN L 48-21 at Highland W 51-50, OT Capital (at BSU) L 33-7 BORAH W 35-14 at Mountain View W 31-17 MERIDIAN W 24-14 CALDWELL W 44-0 VALLIVUE W 21-15 at Rocky Mountain L 70-42

5A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: EAGLE MUSTANGS

Expectations high at Eagle

^ District Playoff Game * State Playoff Game

2011 SCHEDULE Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept. 16 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 6 Oct. 13 Oct. 21 Oct. 28

TIMBERLINE vs. Capital (at BSU) vs. Boise (at BSU) CENTENNIAL at Meridian VALLIVUE vs. Borah (at BSU) at Rocky Mountain MOUNTAIN VIEW

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DEFENSE

Eagle has a nice returning nucleus on the defensive side of the field, which has helped increase the expectations that the Mustangs can contend for the state title.

Safety D.J. Dean is a force in the back end, and defensive linemen Matt Llanes and Kasey Jensen give the Mustangs a solid duo up front. Jordan Nelson and Zac Crosgrove are solid outside linebackers.

“We have so much experience and so much speed,” Peterson said. “All those guys are third-year varsity guys who have a lot of experience and know how to play. They’re all good football players.”

Friday, August 26, 2011

Tanner Mangum, QB He’ll be the mostwatched player in the state. Coach Paul Peterson welcomes the attention but knows scrutiny comes along with it. “I worry about the amount of attention and our expectations,” Peterson said.

“It’s boastful — but the kid is that good.”

Mangum said last year’s injury had a benefit. “It was a good chance for me to master the mental side of the game and focus on my football IQ,” Mangum said.

Jace Johnson, WR/K Johnson is part of a deep receiving corps but his foot is even more impressive than his hands. His kicking prowess is so exceptional that he recently verbally accepted a scholarship offer, according to Peterson.

“Jace was an all-state kicker last year who has already committed to the University of Idaho as a kicker,” Peterson said.

Johnson regularly plants balls in the end zones on kickoffs.

OFFENSE Eagle coach Paul Peterson envisions an aerial circus this season with Taylor Mangum, an experienced group of receivers that includes Marc Cooper, Jason Lane and Jace Johnson and an offensive line led by Sully Wiefels.

“We’re going to be a little crazy but we’re going to go really fast and we’re just going to throw it everywhere,” Peterson said.

The throw-it-all-over-the-field philosophy also is a product of seeing star running back Dillon Lukehart move on to Boise State. The up-tempo attack is music to Mangum’s ears.

“I’m confident I can throw to any one of the receivers and they’ll make a play,” Mangum said.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Adam Eschbach/IPT

Eagle High senior Tanner Mangum was named MVP of the prestigious Elite 11 quarterback camp.

By MIKE SULLIVAN sports@idahopress.com

Tanner Mangum played just nine quarters of football last season but that hasn’t kept the Eagle High quarterback from seeing his reputation soar skyward on the national level.

The senior enters the prep season as one of the nation’s most-watched signal callers after being named MVP of the prestigious Elite 11 quarterback camp this summer.

“It was a pleasant surprise,” Mangum said after a recent practice. “I’ve been working hard my whole life to

breaking his right collarbone, which only made his rise on a national scale all the more COACH: Paul Peterson, seventh season, 44-18 stunning.

LAST YEAR: 7-3, 4-1 5A SIC Division 1 PLAYOFFS: Beat Vallivue in districts, lost to “It’s amazing to sit there Rocky Mountain in state quarterfinals and believe that the kid that is arguably the best quarterback in the country is right accomplish goals like these.

It’s a big honor and a big here,” Eagle coach Paul Peterprivilege. son said. “That’s staggering.”

“I’ve been trying to have a Mangum appreciates the lot of fun and make the most recognition he is receiving of it and soak it all in, and not let it get into my head, but just but said he would trade it all for a state title. enjoy it.”

“That’s a much bigger The Brigham Youngbound Mangum missed most accolade than any individual of his junior season after award,” Mangum said.

TEAM FACTS

High School Football

D.J. Dean, S The most athletic player on the team, Dean’s versatility was on display last season when he moved to quarterback after Mangum was injured. He’ll be able to focus more on his main role this season and Peterson expects a big season from Dean. “He’s a Division I athlete,” Peterson said. “He’s potentially the best athlete in the city. He’s a great football player.”

Jordan Nelson, OLB Nelson’s presence allows the Mustangs to take an aggressive approach on defense.

Nelson foresees the unit increasing the number of turnovers it forces this season.

“I’m expecting a lot more interceptions and big plays causing turnovers,” Nelson said.

“Last year, we kind of sat back and watched the offense take control. This year, I think we’re going to be the ones in control.”

A8

5A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: MERIDIAN WARRIORS 2010 RESULTS Sept. 3 Sept. 10 Sept. 17 Sept. 24 Oct. 1 Oct. 8 Oct. 15 Oct. 22

at Rocky Mountain LEWISTON CENTENNIAL MOUNTAIN VIEW vs. Capital (at BSU) at Caldwell at Eagle BORAH

L 35-7 W 28-24 L 41-7 L 17-6 L 46-27 W 55-7 L 24-14 L 28-21

2011 SCHEDULE Sept. 1 Sept. 9 Sept. 16 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 7 Oct. 14 Oct. 20 Oct. 28

vs. Boise (at BSU) at Mountain View BORAH ROCKY MOUNTAIN EAGLE at Centennial CAPITAL at Timberline VALLIVUE

Warriors play to their strengths

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COACH: Kip Crofts, fifth season, 20-18 LAST YEAR: 2-6, 1-4 5A SIC Division 1 PLAYOFFS: Did not qualify

OFFENSE

DEFENSE

The Warriors will use three down linemen and two middle linebackers, and like the changes on offense, Crofts said this was a needs-based move to work better with the skills his players had.

“We don’t have enough big kids,” Crofts said.

“We had to convert to a scheme that allowed us to play with three.”

A9

Hayden Stout, Sr., FB Stout is a three-year starter and has twice been selected to the 5A SIC all-conference team second team.

Coach Kip Crofts said over the past three seasons, Stout has been “the man” for the Warriors, averaging 1,100 yards rushing per season. He said Stout’s hard running will show itself to be extra important this season, as the team shifts to the flexbone offense. They will also rely on Stout’s quiet leadership to keep the new offense moving down the field.

Matt Van Overbeke, Sr., FB/LB The three-year starter’s leadership on the team is important for many reasons, not the least of which is his presence on both offense as a fullback when Stout is moved in position, and linebacker on defense. Crofts compares him to Stout in quiet leadership, but says his play on the field speaks for itself.

“He will physically dominate a lot of people,” Crofts said. “He’s pretty athletic. He will do a lot of damage.”

TEAM FACTS

Coach Kip Crofts said the Warriors have ditched their effort of being a spread offense this season, creating a completely different look to their play calling.

Crofts calls it a “total reconstruction.”

“We didn’t even use the option that much,” Crofts said. “This year, we’ve brought things tighter together, so that means we’re under center. We don’t have as many receivers. Our best receivers we use pretty much as tailbacks. We are what they call a flexbone.”

Crofts compares the new-look offense to that of Air Force and Navy.

That means the offense is going to be much more reliant on senior fullbacks Hayden Stout and Matt Van Overbeke to carry the load.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Charlie Litchfield/IPT

Meridian coach Kip Crofts led the Warriors to the 5A state championship in his first season at the helm in 2007.

By MIKE SHARP sports@idahopress.com

Meridian’s opponents on the gridiron this season could be noticing a few changes to the Warriors.

The most noticeable changes aren’t in uniforms and personnel, but in the game plan itself.

Meridian coach Kip Crofts said instead of dwelling on last season’s standings, he is approaching this season with a more honest grasp of his team’s strengths and weaknesses, and he’s patterning the game plan around it.

Crofts says a lack of major hardware in the school’s trophy case in recent years isn’t because the team lacks the talent of other

schools, or the heart.

“Basically, the past few years we have tried to be a team that we are not,” Crofts said. “We have tried to force the issue, and I don’t think I’m the only coach that did that. We tried to force the fact that maybe we weren’t that strong in one area and we tried to be strong in that area when we knew we really couldn’t be.

So, yes, we’re trying to use our kids’ strengths better this year.”

What that acknowledgment has led to is an overhaul of the offense and defense that could leave other schools on their heels in what they expect the Warriors to throw at them on the field.

High School Football

Skylar Thornton, Sr., DE Thornton comes into this season playing an even more important role at defensive end than he did last year. In fact, Crofts calls him his most important defensive player. With only three down linemen, Thornton will be expected to disrupt plays that go his direction.

“He can literally stop any play on his side of the ball, and if it’s coming at him, or directed at him, he will stop it,” Krofts said.

Zach McCarthy, Jr., LB Crofts calls McCarthy “The General” because of his smart play on the field. He said some teams may not look at him with fear, but he packs a surprising punch.

“He’s not all that physically threatening,” Crofts said. “But he is so football smart. He always finds the ball, and he makes a play.”

Friday, August 26, 2011

5A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: MOUNTAIN VIEW MAVERICKS

2010 RESULTS Sept. 3 Sept. 10 Sept. 17 Sept. 24 Oct. 1 Oct. 7 Oct. 15 Oct. 22 ^ Oct. 29

at Lake City CENTENNIAL at Rocky Mountain at Meridian CALDWELL EAGLE vs. Borah (at BSU) CAPITAL at Centennial

W 27-20 L 56-42 L 45-9 W 17-6 W 51-7 L 31-17 W 24-14 L 49-8 L 42-11

Back for more

^ District Playoff Game

2011 SCHEDULE Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept. 16 Sept. 22 Sept. 30 Oct. 6 Oct. 14 Oct. 21 Oct. 28

VALLIVUE MERIDIAN vs. Capital (at BSU) vs. Timberline (at BSU) BORAH vs. Boise (at BSU) ROCKY MOUNTAIN at Centennial at Eagle

TEAM FACTS

COACH: Judd Benedick, fifth season, 25-15 LAST YEAR: 4-5, 3-2 5A SIC Division 1 PLAYOFFS: Lost to Centennial, 42-11 in districts

OFFENSE

DEFENSE

Last year Mountain View allowed the most points and yards since the school opened — likely a result of the defense’s eight underclassmen starters.

“We were as a group kind of disappointed in our defensive output,” said coach Judd Benedick, while noting that those eight guys could be a strength this year.

Friday, August 26, 2011

Kai Turner, So., QB Turner was given the benefit of the doubt as he became acclimated to the 5A Southern Idaho Conference a year ago. This year his leadership role is secure — and that’s something he seems to enjoy. ”I believe how you hold yourself in defeat, how you sacrifice for your team, and taking pride in your efforts is always a victory,” he wrote via email.

Daniel Lau, RB Lau depends on his thick build and physicality, finding success straight ahead and between the tackles.

But perhaps even more important will be the increased understanding of the offense he cultivated during his stint as a starter in 2010.

Lau also mentioned his cohesiveness with the offensive line as a reason for optimism.

“We became closer as a team in the offseason,” he wrote.

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Mountain View may lack a bedrock offensive identity going into the season, but it does have the potential for excellent balance.

The Mavericks’ large offensive line no longer has standout running back Michael Ho-Lewis to block for, but luckily Daniel Lau is ready to step in after starting a few games when HoLewis was injured last season. The ground success of both he and Kai Turner in 2010 could be a harbinger of a run-happy offense this season.

Cam Matosich, the only returning starter at receiver, leads a group of mostly smaller receivers who will shoulder most of the workload, including juniors Colin Sale and Connor Armstrong. Tight ends Logan Deroin and Anthony Lyngar have significant value as bigger targets for Turner.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Charlie Litchfield/IPT

Mountain View will attempt to rebound and return to the 5A state playoffs this season.

Mountain View moves forward with young, experienced quarterback

By JAKE ALGER

sports@idahopress.com

© 2011 Idaho Press-Tribune

At some schools, a sophomore starting quarterback would be cause for concern.

At Mountain View, it’s a welcome dose of experience.

That’s because last year a freshman quarterback was at the helm. When Tyson Percifield, who would have been a three-starter, decided to focus on basketball a few weeks before the football season began, 5-foot-9, 165-pound freshman Kai Turner was handed the ball — and a ton of responsibility.

“It was a very humbling challenge to step into the varsity ranks, and compete at that level after coming from middle school football,” Turner said via email.

The last-minute change likely contributed to Mountain View’s struggles: a 4-5 record, a blowout season-ending loss and the first absence from the state playoffs during coach Judd Benedick’s four-year tenure.

The bright side? The team now has a second-year signal-caller who has played through adversity.

“That’s going to pay off big-time,” said Benedick, adding that Turner spent the offseason at the chalkboard and watching game footage.

Turner also can fall back on a lot of support, such as Daniel Lau, a running back who played well as a starter late last year; mainstay receiver Cam Matosich; and the return of three starting offensive linemen.

Still, Turner will be integral.

“He’s a great leader and the kids respect him,” Benedick.

High School Football

Cam Matosich, WR At 5-foot-9, 160 pounds, Matosich is known for his quickness and great hands, coach Judd Benedick said.

His knowledge of how to succeed at that size might prove vital in the development of his similarly small fellow receivers.

“Yes, there are challenges with having a smaller group of receivers, but we think we can make up for that with speed, the way we catch the ball and how we play the game,” Matosich said in an email.

Austin Brown, Sr., DE A senior with impressive personal statistics and accolades, Brown is important to Mountain View’s attempt to rebound from a disappointing season defensively. He said he’ll be even more explosive after a lot of hard work in the weight room this past offseason.

Benedick knows the importance of smart athletes such as Brown and Moore spearheading the defense.

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2010 RESULTS Sept. 3 Sept. 10 Sept. 17 Sept. 24 Oct. 1 Oct. 8 Oct. 15 Oct. 22 ^ Oct. 29 * Nov. 5 * Nov. 12

MERIDIAN at Eagle MOUNTAIN VIEW TIMBERLINE at Coeur d’Alene at Centennial BOISE at Vallivue BORAH EAGLE CENTENNIAL

W 35-7 W 48-21 W 45-9 W 54-6 L 34-22 W 16-13 W 63-17 W 49-7 W 44-0 W 70-42 L 35-33

^ District Playoff Game * State Playoff Game

2011 SCHEDULE Today Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept. 16 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 6 Oct. 14 Oct. 21 Oct. 28

COEUR D’ALENE vs. Borah (at BSU) vs. Timberline (at BSU) VALLIVUE at Meridian vs. Boise (at BSU) CAPITAL at Mountain View EAGLE CENTENNIAL

5A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: ROCKY MOUNTAIN GRIZZLIES

Replacements ready for shot

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JT Trompke’s steady hand is gone, but what remains — including the return of both 2010 starters at cornerback — makes Warr optimistic his team can reprise its status as one of the top defenses in the 5A SIC. Blake Thoren, a linebacker moving to the middle from the outside, is capable of spearheading the unit, Warr said. In front of Thoren, Rocky Mountain’s supersized defensive line — led by 265-pound senior Derrick Munson — can amp up its aggressiveness because of Rocky Mountain’s cornerback situation. David Trompke, a 6-foot senior, is bookended by Demetrius Oliver, who ran a 10.87 100-meter dash in the spring.

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Eli MacCullough, Jr., OT Perhaps the most likely candidate for “Breakout Player of the Year” is MacCullough, thanks to a combination of talent and preparation.

This 6-foot-5, 255-pound junior wasn’t a full-time starter in 2010, but he has shown promise, winning the junior-varsity and varsity offensive lineman MVP awards in consecutive years at BSU’s high school football camp. He said those experiences and BYU’s camp provided a balanced approach as he learned about diverse offensive and defensive schemes.

“That helped give me an edge,” he said.

Jason Crimmins, So., RB Smashmouth is replacing shake and bake in Rocky Mountain’s backfield.

Crimmins, a sophomore, isn’t known for shiftiness as much as power, coach Jason Warr said. “He’s more of a physical, downhill runner,” he said.

Crimmins said he learned some about “vertical steps” and cutbacks from Jordan Deck, but for the most part he makes his mark with contact.

“I just love to hit,” Crimmins said.

OFFENSE Rocky Mountain crowds might be in for more time-eating drives than quick-strike touchdowns in 2011. The Grizzlies’ ground aspirations largely hinge on a big, experienced offensive line comprising three returning starters and well-regarded junior left tackle Eli MacCullough, who coach Jason Warr lauded for his really long arms and physicality.

Jason Crimmins will bear the brunt of the ball-carrying duties, while Riley Bradshaw, a sophomore, is competing with junior Riley Thomas for the starting quarterback role.

Even when they go through the air, the Grizzlies will look different this year. At least three receivers stand 6 feet, 1 inch or taller and have a chance to contribute from the outset.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Adam Eschbach/IPT

Quarterback Riley Thomas and the Rocky Mountain Grizzlies will need to step into some pretty big shoes this season.

Young group feels they have something to prove this year

By JAKE ALGER

sports@idahopress.com

MERIDIAN — These guys don’t exactly light up when asked about last year’s Rocky Mountain football team.

Who could blame them?

Quarterback Riley Bradshaw, running back Jason Crimmins and middle linebacker Blake Thoren are striving to take over for some of the most highly respected local players in recent memory. Plus, people keep asking about it.

“We have something to prove,” Thoren said, adding that this team has the athletes and makeup to win

TEAM FACTS

COACH: Jason Warr fourth season, 15-15 LAST YEAR: 9-2, 5-0 5A SIC Division II PLAYOFFS: Lost to Centennial in state semifinals

state.

That’s something this trio’s forerunners never accomplished, going 9-2 in 2010 but losing to Centennial in the state semifinals. Still, last year’s seniors achieved a lot.

Quarterback Levi Altringer completed 66 percent of his passes and threw 19 touchdowns against eight interceptions in the regular season, and receiver Dallas Burroughs averaged 17.2

High School Football

yards on 51 catches. Running back Jordan Deck raced to 7.8 yards per carry and 18 rushing touchdowns. Linebacker JT Trompke controlled a quietly staunch defense.

Regardless, neither the newcomers nor fourth-year coach Jason Warr seem concerned. Warr thinks the defense has the tools necessary to pick up where last year’s unit left off, when it allowed just 114 points.

“Scheme-wise, and the way kids understand what we’re trying to do, I think we can keep that up,” Warr said.

Perhaps they’ll continue winning as well — with their own style. Maybe then the comparisons will stop.

Riley Bradshaw, So., QB Warr said Bradshaw had a slight edge in the quarterback competition earlier in camp, but the official decision hadn’t been made.

Bradshaw — a 6-foot, 170pound sophomore — sports a realistic confidence that might be just right for this developing offensive group. He thinks the squad has potential for some long plays, yet a methodical approach will be successful, too.

“I think we could have a lot of drives with 5-yard and 6-yard gains, wearing down the defense,” he said.

Blake Thoren, MLB Thoren fully appreciates what Trompke meant to this team.

“It’s definitely a privilege to play after him.”

That said, he’s confident in the ability of he and the rest of the defense to continue the Grizzlies’ recent success. Warr has faith, too — especially after seeing Thoren’s progression into and through preseason camp.

“He looks excellent,” the coach said.

Friday, August 26, 2011

4A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: CALDWELL COUGARS 2010 RESULTS Aug. 27 Sept. 2 Sept. 10 Sept. 17 Sept. 24 Oct. 1 Oct. 7 Oct. 14 Oct. 22 Oct. 29

at Nampa POST FALLS KUNA at Vallivue BORAH at Mountain View MERIDIAN at Capital at Eagle at Skyline

L 41-0 L 57-14 L 28-27 L 56-7 L 55-21 L 51-7 L 55-7 L 55-25 L 44-0 L 41-6

New conference, coach for Caldwell

2011 SCHEDULE Aug. 26 Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept. 16 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 6 Oct. 14 Oct. 21

VALLIVUE MIDDLETON COLUMBIA MOUNTAIN HOME at Bishop Kelly SKYVIEW at Kuna at Nampa at Emmett

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COACH: Zach McGee, first season LAST YEAR: 0-10 overall, 0-5 5A SIC Division I PLAYOFFS: Did not qualify

OFFENSE

DEFENSE The Cougars return five starters to a defense that gave up more than 40 points in nine of its 10 losses a year ago. Rather than out-scheme opponents, McGee said the Cougars are going to focus on being in the right place.

Caldwell, which played in a 4-4 front last year, switches to a 4-3 this year. All four starting linebackers — Jackson, Torres, Bernie Fernandez and Andres Soto — return. McGee said all four will be rotated throughout the season.

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Brett Jackson, Sr., QB/LB Jackson enters his fourth season as a varsity player and second as the Cougars’ starting quarterback.

“He has a lot of varsity football experience,” coach Zach McGee said. “That, at the quarterback position, is essential. You want your guy that touches the ball every play to be the guy that’s confident and cool.”

He passed for 1,187 yards last year and rushed for more than 400.

Andy Forse, Sr., WR/DB Forse grabbed three touchdowns in 2010, and was named as a 5A Southern Idaho Conference honorable mention receiver. He had 23 catches for 295 yards.

“He’s a guy that is a possession-type receiver, McGee said. “He’s the guy you can throw the ball to and expect to catch it. He’s been that way since he was a little kid.”

TEAM FACTS

Five starters return on the Caldwell offense, including quarterback Brett Jackson. However, coach Zach McGee says the Cougars will run out of the multiple wing offense and rely heavily on the run.

“We’re going to win if we run the football,” McGee said. “We’re not a basketball-on-grass offense. We’re going to try to control the clock.”

McGee said fullback Laren Walker provides the Cougars with power to run up the middle.

Jacob Torres will be more of an outside runner for the Cougars.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Charlie Litchfield/IPT

The Caldwell Cougars open 4A SIC play on Sept. 2 against Middleton at Simplot Stadium.

Cougars begin Zach McGee era in the ranks of 4A

By JOHN WUSTROW jwustrow@idahopress.com

© 2011 Idaho Press-Tribune

Perhaps no football team in the state had its fate change in the third week of January the way Caldwell did.

On Jan. 18, the Idaho State Activities Association approved Caldwell High’s petition to move from the 5A classification to 4A. A day earlier, Lee Leslie had resigned as coach of Bishop Kelly, opening a spot that eventually lured Caldwell coach Tim Brennan back to the school he coached at for 15 years.

The Caldwell Cougars, return to the the 4A Southern Idaho Conference, after five seasons at the Class 5A level.

Zach The Cougars McGee are also playing under new coach Zach McGee, their third coach in as many years.

“We’re excited about it,” McGee said. “We’re handling it with a level of excitement that’s refreshing.”

McGee, who was pro-

High School Football

moted after four years as an assistant, leads the team into a new era. Caldwell struggled as members of the 5A Southern Idaho Conference, winning only one league game the last three seasons.

But McGee knows that his team still has its work cut out for it. Caldwell lost both its games last season against 4A SIC foes.

“By no means do we go down to an easy division,” McGee said. “This (league) contains the state champ (Bishop Kelly) and there’s some dang good football players here. I don’t think our road gets easier.”

Jose Gamez, Sr., OL/DL Gamez was supposed to be a factor on both the offensive and defensive lines as a junior, but injuries hampered his production. McGee said Gamez is healthy this year and ready to step up for his senior season.

“This is kind of a breath of fresh air for him and for the rest of us who know that he’s as healthy as he is and is as motivated as he is,” the coach said. “We’re really excited about him.”

Bernie Fernandez, Sr., OL/LB McGee called Fernandez the “emotional leader” of the Cougars and said he will once again play a big role in the success of the Cougars’ line.

“He’s the jokester and he’s the serious guy all rolled into one,” McGee said. “He’s kind of that guy when you expect that spark or expect that guy to kind of step up and take it to the next level, he’s the one.”

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4A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: COLUMBIA WILDCATS 2010 RESULTS Sept. 3 Sept. 10 Sept. 17 Sept. 24 Oct. 1 Oct. 8 Oct. 15 Oct. 22 Oct. 29

at Jerome FRUITLAND at Skyview at Kuna MOUNTAIN HOME at Middleton BISHOP KELLY at Emmett NAMPA

W, 20-13 L, 27-0 L, 13-6 W, 21-0 L, 21-17 W, 19-12 L, 27-10 L, 16-13 L, 31-22

‘Show that we can play disciplined’

2011 SCHEDULE Aug. 26 Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept. 16 Sept. 23 Oct. 7 Oct. 14 Oct. 21 Oct. 28

CANYON RIDGE at Mountain Home at Caldwell at Nampa KUNA EMMETT at Bishop Kelly SKYVIEW MIDDLETON

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COACH: Derek Mertz, 4th season, 9-18 LAST YEAR: 3-6, 2-5 4A WIC PLAYOFFS: did not qualify

OFFENSE

DEFENSE The 3-5-3 defense loses cornerstones in the likes of linebacker Adrian Dickinson (73.5 tackles, 10.5 for loss) and defensive lineman Brandon VanWinkle (45.5, 13 TFL) Now its defensive linemen Brandon Henrie and Nick Edenfield, who can provide a spark in the run-stopping antics. At middle linebacker, Keegan Curry brings speed and athleticism. “He’s kind of the quarterback of the defense,” coach Derek Mertz says. “He’s not as big and physical as Adrian (Dickinson), but he’s more athletic.”

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Spencer Salinas, Sr., DB/R The conference’s top-rated pass defense loses Luke Marks and Jake Arslanian, both of whom earned second-team allconference selections.

However, the defensive backfield still boasts Salinas, a 6-foot-2, 195-pound senior who ranked second behind Marks last year with four pass breakups.

“He’s a tremendous hitter,” coach Derek Mertz says. “He’s a brutal hitter.

“He’s better than he was last year.”

Eric Cotton, Jr., OLB/WR Cotton’s athleticism is evidenced by his ability to dunk a basketball.

The 6-foot-6, 230pounder runs well for his size.

“When he plays with a little bit of an edge, he’s a much better player,” Mertz says. “We try to push his buttons to get him into that mode. When he flips that switch, he’s a very good football player.”

TEAM FACTS

The fly offense has been scrapped for the pistol formation, an effort to boost the passing game under the leadership of junior quarterback Austin Schaffer, whose receiving targets include Eric Cotton and Tyler Casey, a transfer from Mountain Home.

The run game, which has featured multiple ball carriers a game in past seasons, will now be limited. Tailbacks Keegan Curry and Mario Jenkins run behind a youthful offensive line.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Charlie Litchfield/IPT

Junior QB Austin Schaffer starts a new era. “I expect great things from him this year,” coach Derek Mertz says.

‘I think execution has been a gross part of our past’

By BRUCE MASON bmason@idahopress.com

© 2011 Idaho Press-Tribune

Year six of Wildcat football is here. No playoff berths yet.

They certainly came close in 2009, a battle to regular season’s end. Last season, they possessed talent — and their potential showed in a mid-season upset at Middleton — but still, no postseason action.

Is it fair for the ’Cats to talk about finally earning that playoff spot?

“I don’t think that’s wise. I think what we need to think about is Canyon Ridge,”

coach Derek Mertz said.

“That’s the first game.

And that’s all we’re thinking about — that’s it, and that’s all.”

Derek In terms of Mertz last season’s conference statistics, the Wildcats’ defense was third in points allowed (17.7 per game). They also boasted the No. 1-rated pass defense (76.7 yards per game).

“Our defense was able to

High School Football

keep us in ball games,” Mertz acknowledges.

The offense, however, provided extremely frustrating sputtering moments. It ranked seventh out of eight teams in conference statistical categories such as total yardage (254.1 points per game), passing (75.9 ppg) and scoring (14.3 ppg).

“I think execution has been a gross part of our past.

It’s been pretty ugly,” Mertz says. “Obviously, we really wanna step that up, and execute, and show that we can play disciplined football.”

Austin Schaffer, Jr., QB/FS He saw action at the tail end of last season — although it wasn’t the Wildcats’ original plan to insert him as a sophomore. Now as a junior, Schaffer sprouted in the offseason to 6 feet and 195 pounds.

He’s a dual threat as a passer and runner with smarts and athleticism.

Nick Edenfield, Sr., OL/DL The 6-4, 285-pound Edenfield is a core member on the offensive and defensive lines, who will be looked upon to fill the shoes of Brandon VanWinkle, an allconference lineman who graduated.

Edenfield showcases an inspirational tenacious work ethic: flipping tires and running ladders.

“He’s exceptionally strong. I think he leads in our team in almost every lifting category,” Mertz says. “Really, really impressive kid.”

Friday, August 26, 2011

4A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: BISHOP KELLY KNIGHTS 2010 RESULTS Sept. 3 at Minico Sept. 10 BOISE Sept. 17 MIDDLETON Sept. 24 at Emmett Oct. 1 SKYVIEW Oct. 8 MOUNTAIN HOME Oct. 15 at Columbia Oct. 22 at Nampa Oct. 29 KUNA *Nov. 5 POCATELLO *Nov. 13 SHELLEY *Nov. 20 BLACKFOOT * State playoff game

W, 13-6 W, 40-10 W, 35-12 W, 47-21 W, 15-13 W, 35-6 W, 27-10 W, 49-17 W, 44-0 W, 27-17 W, 28-7 W, 41-28

Winning a state title is ‘always the goal’

JEROME EMMETT at Kuna CALDWELL at Mountain Home at Middleton COLUMBIA NAMPA at Skyview

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TEAM FACTS COACH: Tim Brennan, 16th season, 126-34 LAST YEAR: 12-0, 7-0 4A SIC PLAYOFFS: Won state title vs. Blackfoot, 41-28 Adam Eschbach/IPT

OFFENSE

Knights players run through quick-feet drills during summer camp.

“We feel we have to run the football,” coach Tim Brennan says. “If we’re successful running the football, then you can throw the ball, off play-action.”

There’s a three-way battle at quarterback between Bowen Ogata, Trent Anderson and David Pogue. Whoever starts will throw to receivers Clay Oliver and Ben Skinner.

The Knights’ tailbacks are JoJo Harrington and Andrew Spangler. Fullbacks are Shea Siegert, Josh Poole and Derek Thompson, the latter of whom is a strong, physical blocker.

Winningest coach in school history returns to sideline

DEFENSE The Knights play similar to a 4-4 — although it’s a little different and features a zone-coverage look most of the time.

“We won’t blitz a lot, because we hope kids are in position to make plays,” Brennan says.

Key components of the defensive line will be Neal Murphy and Austin Seidler.

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JoJo Harrington, Sr., RB/OLB The 5-foot-10, 190pounder has new runtackling teammates. Last year, he played alongside Cody McCarthy, who dominated opposing ball carriers en route to winning 4A SIC Defensive Player of the Year.

Harrington earned all-conference secondteam status as an outside linebacker — the position he’ll play again inside coach Tim Brennan’s 4-4 system. “He’s just a solid high school football player,” Brennan says.

Neal Murphy, Jr., OL/DL The Knights’ left tackle started last season as a sophomore.

“He’s a very good athlete for being an offensive lineman,” Brennan says.

“He runs real well.

“He’s going to be a physical kid. He’s probably not going to be the best one-on-one base blocker in the conference, but he’ll tie people up.” Murphy will also see time in the trenches on the defensive line.

2011 SCHEDULE Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept.16 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 7 Oct. 14 Oct. 21 Oct. 28

PLAYERS TO WATCH

By BRUCE MASON bmason@idahopress.com

© 2011 Idaho Press-Tribune

The magical ride ended with dethroning rival Blackfoot. Coach Lee Leslie and his seniors celebrated inside Bronco Stadium, their “Be Perfect” motto complete as 4A state champions.

That was nine months ago. Today, the landscape at Bishop Kelly High is vastly different.

Leslie left the program.

Playmakers Cody McCarthy and Hunter Griffith graduated. Yet, the tradition and goals of sustaining

dominance remains because the Knights dipped into their past.

Tim Brennan is back.

Tim The Brennan winningest coach (126-34) in the program’s 47-year history returns after a four-year hiatus. His Bishop Kelly resume from 1992-2006 includes seven conference titles, three 4A runner-up

High School Football

finishes and three state titles (1994, 20004, 2005).

He inherits a successful group of freshman and junior varsity players who lost one combined game last season.

They’ll try and maintain the Knights’ 4A SIC winning streak of 16 games (dating back to 2008). And they’ll try to defend their back-to-back conference titles — and that special state title, too.

“They were state champions last year — and it’s really tough to repeat, but that’s always the goal here at Bishop Kelly: To be a state champion,” Brennan said.

Austin Seidler, Sr., OL/DL The Knights offense last season dominated in many facets.

Now, the powerful and compacted Seidler will be looked upon as a leader from his center

position.

“He’s not real big, but he’s strong and gets off the ball,” Brennan says. “He’s gonna be a real good high school football player.”

Josh Poole, Jr., FB/ILB Cody McCarthy was a blocking-running threat last year for Bishop Kelly.

Now its Poole who will man the offense at fullback.

“Probably one of his best strengths is, you tell him how to do something one time, and he usually figures it out,” Brennan says. “He’s very intelligent.

“He’s a good athlete at fullback, but he’s also going to be a good blocker. We’ll be able to throw the ball to him out of the backfield, also.”

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4A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: EMMETT HUSKIES 2010 RESULTS Aug.27 Sept. 3 Sept. 17 Sept. 24 Oct. 1 Oct. 8 Oct. 15 Oct. 22 Oct.29

WEISER at Fruitland at Nampa BISHOP KELLY KUNA at Skyview at Middleton COLUMBIA MOUNTAIN HOME

W 30-27 L 24-21 L 28-21 L 47-21 W 39-6 L 28-13 L 42-20 W 16-13 W 49-20

Huskies hope for postseason run

2011 SCHEDULE Today Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept. 16 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 7 Oct. 21 Oct. 28

at Weiser NAMPA at Bishop Kelly SKYVIEW MIDDLETON at Kuna at Columbia Caldwell at Mountain Home

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TEAM FACTS

Casey Barton

Wyatt Watts

COACH: Jerry O’Mahony, eighth season, 19-43 LAST YEAR: 4-5, 3-4 4A SIC PLAYOFFS: did not qualify

OFFENSE Hoping to spread the punishment around, coach Jerry O’Mahony has identified six players who will be see significant carries in what he is promising will be a more runoriented team than Emmett fans have seen in the past.

Two tough backs in senior Aaron Villarin and junior Hunter Larson lend credibility to their coach’s claim of a departure from his traditional pass-first philosophy.

But don’t let a ball control ground game make you forget the pass-happy O’Mahony is still on the sidelines. There will still be plenty of air action with quick and sure-handed receivers that include seniors Mark Freeman, Tucker Hyde, Caden Banister and Patrick O’Mahony.

DEFENSE Surrendering big plays on defense has plagued the Huskies in recent years. Time and again, opposing offenses have converted a fourth-and-long on the Emmett side of the field into six points. But this might be the year that changes.

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Dakota Cole

By KELLEY TAYLOR Messenger Index

Speed is the word coming from the football practice field at Emmett High season. Always a high octane guy himself, Emmett coach Jerry O’Mahony might finally have a team on the field that can match his energy on the sideline.

Everywhere he looks, O’Mahony sees speed. From defense to special teams, and

Patrick O’Mahony on offense, this is arguably the fastest team the Huskies have fielded in O’Mahony’s eight years on the sideline.

That’s the good news for the Huskies. The bad news is once again, there is very little depth behind all that quickness.

“We’re going to come after you for four quarters,” O’Mahony said. “Or as long as our depth will allow.”

Last season, the perenni-

High School Football

ally short-handed Huskies avoided big injuries to key players and finished with a 45 (3-4 4A SIC) record. They’ll need similar luck this season if they are going to post the first winning record since early in O’Mahony’s tenure as head coach.

Key to the team’s success will be protecting first-year starting quarterback Casey Barton and keeping him on the field.

PLAYERS TO WATCH Casey Barton, QB Emmett will be relying heavily on a first-year varsity quarterback to run their deceptive offense. Senior Casey Barton fits the mold of a typical signal caller in coach Jerry O’Mahony’s system — he’s classroom smart, football smart and athletic.

Barton’s speed and quickness will be a big part of the Huskies’ ground game. If the rookie varsity quarterback can avoid mistakes in the passing attack, Emmett will move the ball on Friday nights.

Wyatt Watts, FB/LB Tough is the word to describe the Huskies’ second-year fullback and linebacker Wyatt Watts. O’Mahony describes the senior as Emmett’s best “impact player,” and he needs to be a huge factor on defense if the team is to finally have success stopping the run game.

On offense, Watts’ hard-nosed style of play at fullback will make him a weapon as a lead blocker, ball carrier, pass receiver and pass blocker.

Dakota Cole, TE A leader both on and off the field, Dakota Cole is one of Emmett’s most heavily recruited athletes in the last 10 years. The strongest and one of the fastest members of the team has drawn interest from Brown University, The United States Naval Academy and Idaho to name a few. A fixture on defense, look for the senior to get involved in the passing game from the tight end position.

Patrick O’Mahony, K One of the things fans can look forward to this year is the kicking game of Patrick O’Mahony. Last season the senior missed his first extra point attempt before going on to hit 13 ina-row. Word out of camp this year is that he’s been splitting the uprights from beyond 50 yards. That gives Emmett options in the red zone they haven’t had in many years.

Friday, August 26, 2011

4A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: KUNA KAVEMEN 2010 RESULTS Sept. 3 Sept. 10 Sept. 17 Sept. 24 Oct. 1 Oct. 7 Oct. 15 Oct. 22 Oct. 29

VALLIVUE at Caldwell at Mountain Home COLUMBIA at Emmett NAMPA SKYVIEW at Middleton at Bishop Kelly

L 49-0 W 28-27 L 42-7 L 21-0 L 39-6 L 38-6 L 68-7 L 29-6 L 44-0

Kuna hopes hard work pays dividends

2011 SCHEDULE Today Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept. 16 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 6 Oct. 14 Oct. 28

MINICO at Skyview at Middleton BISHOP KELLY at Columbia EMMETT CALDWELL MOUNTAIN HOME at Nampa

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COACH: Rusty Frisch, 2nd season, 1-8 record LAST YEAR: 1-8, 0-7 4A SIC PLAYOFFS: Did not make playoffs

OFFENSE

DEFENSE The Kavemen struggled on defense last year, giving up nearly 40 points per game.

Frisch said he feels the Kavemen’s depth up front will help the defensive unit improve this year.

Ralph Rivas enters the season with the most experience on the D-line, but the coach said players like Kevin Alvarez and Cody Johnson have been able to step up.

Chad Milburn will help anchor the linebacking core, while Dylan Kerbs, Kayden Votroubek anchor the defensive backfield.

Friday, August 26, 2011

Kenny Berger, Sr., QB Berger split time at quarterback last year, but will take over as the full-time starter this year. Coach Rusty Frisch said Berger has had a tremendous offseason and was helped a lot by the Boise State camp.

“He’s a guy that is going to be instrumental in terms of our offense,” Frisch said. “But he’s just one guy.”

Chad Milburn, Sr., LB/RB Milburn played mostly on the defense last year and didn’t spend a lot of time at running back, but Frisch said the senior will play a big role in the Kavemen’s running game this year.

“He’s going to come in, help us out and be a guy we can count on to run the ball,” Frisch said.

TEAM FACTS

Kuna will run out of the spread offense this season and will implement the veer into its attack.

Five starters return from last year, meaning many younger players will need to step up.

With a lot of new players coming in, coach Rusty Frisch said it’s hard to tell where the strong points are for the Kavemen this year.

“It’s a new team. We got Kenny (Berger) being the new quarterback and changes on the offense. We’ll see how it comes together here.”

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Charlie Litchfield/IPT

Rusty Frisch is entering his second season as the Kuna Kavemen’s coach.

Kavemen look to improve on last year’s one-win season

By JOHN WUSTROW

kids in the weight room,” © 2011 Idaho Press-Tribune senior safety As the second year of the Dylan Kerbs Rusty Frisch era gets under way, said. “We’ve there seems to be a sense of done a lot change among the Kuna football more 7-on-7 team. tournaments They’ve had bigger turnout and we went to in the summer, attended more the Boise State Rusty camps, and done anything they football camp.

Frisch can to improve on last year’s 1-8 We’ve been overall record, and an 0-7 record preparing a lot more coming against 4A Southern Idaho Con- into two-a-days.” ference foes.

The Boise State camp was something that the Kavemen “This summer we’ve been had not attended in previous working way harder, a lot more jwustrow@idahopress.com

High School Football

years, but was something Frisch was determined to get his team into, where he said he was happy with how the Kavemen performed.

“I think for us, it was very important in terms of our confidence level in terms of understanding we can compete against bigger teams, not just in terms of classification, but physically,” said Frisch, who had been to the camp previously as an assistant with Mountain View.

“That (success) was attributed to those guys that really worked hard in the weight room.”

Dylan Kerbs, Sr., FS Kerbs was a leader in the Kuna secondary a year ago, and his coach expects more of the same during his

senior year. “(He’s) very smart, kind of the quarterback of the defense and understands what we’re doing,” Frisch said.

“We’re looking for him to step up and play a big part in being a leader on defense.”

Chris Millspaugh, Sr., RB Millspaugh will be more of a perimeter runner for Kuna this year. Frisch said he will be used in the ‘H’ back role, a guy who can split out and run pass routes.

“He’s a guy that’s going to be multifaceted in terms of getting him involved in the pass game, “ Frisch said. “He’s a hard runner, more of a speedy kind of scat-back.”

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by

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High School Football

Friday, August 26, 2011

4A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: MIDDLETON VIKINGS 2010 RESULTS Sept. 3 POCATELLO Sept. 10 at Jerome Sept. 17 at Bishop Kelly Sept. 24 at Mountain Home Oct. 1 at Nampa Oct. 8 COLUMBIA Oct. 15 EMMETT Oct. 22 at Kuna Oct. 29 SKYVIEW * Nov. 6 at Shelley * State Playoff Game

L 21-16 W 27-6 L 35-12 W 36-13 W 14-7 L 19-12 W 42-20 W 29-6 L 28-14 L 23-0

Viking goal: Get wins in November

2011 SCHEDULE Today Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept. 16 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 7 Oct. 14 Oct. 21 Oct. 28

JEROME at Caldwell KUNA at Pocatello at Emmett NAMPA BISHOP KELLY at Skyview MOUNTAIN HOME at Columbia

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COACH: Bill Brock, 12th season, 50-54 LAST YEAR: 5-5, 4-3 4A SIC PLAYOFFS: Lost to Shelley, 23-0, in first round

OFFENSE

DEFENSE Seven starters return on defense, with the linebacker position being one of the strong points.

Pero and Jessup return as outside linebackers while Cole Lowe will play middle linebacker after moving up from the junior varsity team for last season’s playoff game.

Domingo Urquiaga moves up from linebacker to join Tyson Payne and Luke Hildebrandt on the defensive line.

Friday, August 26, 2011

Porter Bennett, Sr., RB/DB Bennett was the Vikings starting quarterback a year ago, but coach Bill Brock felt given his talents and the Middleton system, he would be better suited as a running back. The coach said Bennett immediately bought in.

“He didn’t bat an eye,” Brock said. “I just said ‘why don’t we do this,’ and he said ‘yes, that’s what we’re going to do.’ To his credit he didn’t question anything. He’s a tremendous athlete, we just feel like that’s a good way to get him the ball.”

Domingo Urquiaga, Sr., OL/DL Urquiaga is a three-year starter for the Vikings and moves from linebacker to the defensive line.

On the offensive line, where he plays guard, Urquiaga will be the experienced leader as the Vikings lost three all-conference offensive linemen from last year to graduation.

“It’s not his first rodeo by any means,” Brock said. “He’s very solid, a good leader by example.”

TEAM FACTS

The double wing running style has worked for Middleton, and that’s what they’re sticking with.

“That’s our identity,” coach Bill Brock said.

“I think our kids would revolt right now if we tried to change it. They own it and that’s what they do.”

Brock said the Vikings will have as many as eight players who run the ball in any particular game, led by seniors Hyder Jessup, Porter Bennett and Josiah Pero.

“It’s going to be a total team effort, I can guarantee that,” Brock said.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Greg Kreller/IPT

Senior Hyder Jessup will be one of as many as eight running backs who can run the football for Middleton this season.

Middleton has lost in first round past three years

By John Wustrow

new-found postseason © 2011 Idaho Press-Tribune success this The city of Middleton has year. seen quite a few changes in “The last recent months. three years At the intersection of Mid- we’ve gone dleton Road and State Route to the state 44, the city’s first traffic light playoffs and was recently installed. Just a lost,” senior lineman few miles away, on Emmett Bill Brock Domingo Road, the city’s new high Urquiaga said. “So our goal school opened its doors to in the last two years has been students on Wednesday. to win in November, not just And on the new artificial go to November.” turf at the high school, the Getting to November the Middleton football team last three years has not been is hoping to find some jwustrow@idahopress.com

High School Football

a trouble for the Vikings, as they’ve gone 17-10 in the regular season over that span.

But each season, they’ve suffered a first-round exit, including last season’s 23-0 loss to Shelley.

“We’ve played some very good teams and we’ve had opportunities,” Middleton coach Bill Brock said. “It will work out for us. We tell our kids nothing comes easy and sooner or later we’re going to get over the hump. When it does (happen) there’s no stopping us.”

Hyder Jessup, Sr. RB/LB Jessup was the Vikings’ No. 3 running back a year ago, but with the two who were above him graduating, Brock said he will have a chance to take over as the No. 1 guy.

“He understands our system and what it takes to be successful,” Brock said. “Not only to run the ball and to block. He’s going to step right up and do a good job for us.”

Josiah Pero, Sr., RB/LB Pero played mostly on defense, and spent limited time on offense last year, but Brock said he will have an expanded role with the Vikings’ running game. His physical make up, Brock said, is just what Middleton is looking for.

“He’s quick,” Brock said. “He’s very quick off the ball. He has great explosions and he’s a physical guy. He fits in good to our team make up and he’s going to fit in to our team make up.”

A18

4A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: MOUNTAIN HOME TIGERS 1A DIVISION I SCHEDULES CASCADE RAMBLERS Sept. 2 Sept. 16 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 7 Oct. 14 Oct. 21 Oct. 28

at Council at Rimrock at Horseshoe Bend GARDEN VALLEY at Greenleaf IDAHO CITY NOTUS at Wilder

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at Garden Valley at Greenleaf at Greeleaf CASCADE IDAHO CITY at Wilder NOTUS at Rimrock

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Tigers look to focus on team

By IDAHO PRESS-TRIBUNE sports@idahopress.com

2010 RESULTS Aug. 27 Sept. 9 Sept. 18 Sept. 24 Oct. 1 Oct. 8 Oct. 15 Oct. 22 Oct. 29

JEROME at Timberline KUNA MIDDLETON at Columbia at Bishop Kelly at Nampa SKYVIEW at Emmett

W 28-21 L 33-13 W 42-7 L 36-13 W 21-17 L 35-6 L 45-27 L 37-16 L 49-20

© 2011 Idaho Press-Tribune

IDAHO CITY WILDCATS

RIMROCK RAIDERS

Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 7 Oct. 14 Oct. 21 Oct. 28

Today Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept. 16 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 14 Oct. 28

at Lighthouse Christ.

GARDEN VALLEY GREENLEAF at Horseshoe Bend NOTUS at Cascade WILDER at Rimrock

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at Garden Valley at Shoshone at Dietrich CASCADE at Wilder at Notus at Greenleaf IDAHO CITY

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1A DIVISION II SCHEDULES COUNCIL LUMBERJACKS GARDEN VALLEY Today Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept. 16 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 14 Oct. 28

TRI-VALLEY CASCADE at Power River ADRIAN (Ore.) at Salmon River at Tri-Valley at Garden Valley SALMON RIVER

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RIMROCK HORSESHOE BEND at Idaho City at Tri-Valley at Cascade at Salmon River COUNCIL TRI-VALLEY

SALMON RIVER

TRI-VALLEY TITANS

Today Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept. 17 Sept. 23 Oct. 7 Oct. 21 Oct. 28

Today Sept. 9 Sept. 17 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 21 Oct. 28

at NOTUS 7 p.m. at LaCrosse-Washtucna 7 p.m.

COLTON (Wash.)

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TRI-VALLEY Noon COUNCIL 7 p.m.

GARDEN VALLEY 7 p.m. at Tri-Valley 6 p.m. at Council 7 p.m.

at Council at Pine Eagle at Salmon River GARDEN VALLEY COUNCIL SALMON RIVER at Garden Valley

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For many coaches, returning one of the top passers and one of the top receivers in the conference would be something to be excited about.

But Brian Floyd is looking for more.

Sure, the Mountain Home coach is happy to see quarterback Jake Hennessey and receiver JT Cristobal return for their senior seasons, but they are only two pieces of a much bigger puzzle for Mountain Home this year.

“We’re really going for this whole team thing,” said Floyd.

“We’ve talked about the individual in the past and it hasn’t work.”

Floyd said the Tigers hope to build a strong ground game to help supplement their already solid passing attack. Juan Silva will be the Tigers’ No. 1 running back this season.

Defensively, the Tigers return six Charlie Litchfield/IPT starters, including all four of their deMountain Home quarterback Jake Hennessey was fensive backs in Hennessey, Cristobal second in the conference in passing last season and as well as Ricky Castillo and Tyler returns to the Tigers for his senior season.

Knauth.

• NEWS • WEATHER • SPORTS • JOB POSTINGS • TRAFFIC

2011 SCHEDULE Sept. 2 Spet. 9 Sept. 16 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 7 Oct. 14 Oct. 21 Oct. 28

COLUMBIA at Skyview at Caldwell NAMPA BISHOP KELLY at Jerome at Kuna at Middleton EMMETT

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TEAM FACTS COACH: Brian Floyd, 8th season, 32-34 LAST YEAR: 3-6, 2-5 4A SIC PLAYOFFS: Did not qualify RETURNING STARTERS: Six offense, six defense

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High School Football

Friday, August 26, 2011 517837

4A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: NAMPA BULLDOGS 2010 RESULTS Aug. 27 Sept. 3 Sept. 17 Sept. 24 Oct. 1 Oct. 7 Oct. 15 Oct. 22 Oct. 29

CALDWELL at Twin Falls EMMETT at Skyview MIDDLETON at Kuna MOUNTAIN HOME BISHOP KELLY at Columbia

W, 41-0 L, 14-0 W, 28-21 L, 29-28 L, 14-7 W, 38-6 W, 45-27 L, 49-17 W, 31-22

‘We’re looking for a different outcome’

2011 SCHEDULE Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept. 16 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 6 Oct. 14 Oct. 21 Oct. 28

at Emmett TWIN FALLS COLUMBIA at Mountain Home at Middleton SKYVIEW CALDWELL at Bishop Kelly KUNA

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COACH: Scott Wooldridge, 6th season, 30-21 LAST YEAR: 5-4 overall, 4-3 4A SIC PLAYOFFS: Did not qualify.

OFFENSE

DEFENSE Middle linebacker Larry Hunsinger features a nose-for-the-ball awareness. The linebacker corps also includes Carlos Siguenza, Corbin Benjamin and Brett Ma, who’s a rover playing a linebacker-defensive back hybrid.

Gepford will work in the Bulldogs’ trenches with Coronado, a nose guard. The Bulldogs pass defense needs to improve: Their 146.7 yards per game ranked near the conference cellar.

Friday, August 26, 2011

Devan Lesley, Sr., RB The reigning 4A SIC rushing leader finished his junior year just 29 yards shy of the majestic 1,000-yard plateau.

Lesley, who has “football speed,” uses his wherewithal and field vision to decide when to use power, and when to use his shifty ability, coach Scott Wooldridge says.

“He’s starting to understand that he can run somebody over,” Wooldridge said. “He’s kind of grown into that.”

Josh Bostrom, Sr., QB He’s an elusive athlete who ranked 10th last season in conference receiving yardage (24 catches, 343 yards). Now, he’ll orchestrate Nampa’s zone-read attack as its quarterback.

“You gotta respect his ability to run,” Wooldridge said. “Now, if they load the box up, maybe we’re able to put the ball up in the air a little bit more.

“Josh can throw the ball, so we’re able to utilize our receivers.”

TEAM FACTS

RB Devan Lesley helped Nampa rank second last season in 4A SIC rushing (1,997 team yards). Now, coach Scott Wooldridge hopes QB Josh Bostrom can maintain the stellar rushing game with his speed and elusiveness — thus opening the passing game with his arm. (Nampa was fifth in conference passing last year.)

The offense’s question mark is the O-line, but there are strong returners in the likes of left tackle JW Pierson, and center Christian Coronado. Right tackle Mason Gepford, a sophomore, has impressed Wooldridge.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Adam Eschbach/IPT

Josh Bostrom caught 24 passes for 343 yards and four TDs last year. Now, he’s the dual-threat quarterback.

‘We want the championship,’ says 4A SIC rushing king

By BRUCE MASON bmason@idahopress.com

© 2011 Idaho Press-Tribune

The math didn’t compute.

They were ranked second in rushing offense. Third in scoring offense. Third in rushing defense. Usually, those denotations create success, especially in runheavy high school football.

Yet, for the 2010 Nampa Bulldogs, their favorable rushing formulas equated to a fourth-place finish inside the 4A Southern Idaho Conference, thus ending their three-year succession of state playoff appearances.

“You can’t say shoulda, woulda, coulda,” shrugs Nampa coach Scott Wooldridge, who enters his sixth seaScott son. “There’s Wooldridge some things we didn’t get done, as players and coaches.”

Things such as hold a 14point fourth-quarter lead at Skyview — which ended in a one-point loss.

Things such as take care of

High School Football

the football against Middleton — which ended in a seven-point loss.

Things such as dethrone conference champion Bishop Kelly — which ended in a lopsided loss.

Win one of those games, and the Bulldogs earn a postseason berth.

“It was very disappointing,” says senior Devan Lesley, who led the 4A SIC with 971 yards rushing last year.

“We’re looking for a different outcome to our season. We want the championship, and we’re not going to stop until we get there.”

Paul Ma, Sr., CB He’s 5-foot-7, similar to the mold of Bulldogs’ cornerbacks in past years: Not tall or blazing fast, but solid and sound positionally. “(Ma) started every game for us last year,” Wooldridge says. “Fast kid. Strong kid. He does a good job on coverage — he’s a good, cover corner.” The coachable Ma has “done everything” Wooldridge has asked thus far.

Derrick Brothers, Sr., CB Wooldridge says the “bright idea” arose last season during a junior varsity game: What are we doing? Why isn’t Derrick Brothers playing varsity?

Thus, Brothers shifted to varsity for the final six games, performing admirably.

“Best decision we ever made,” Wooldridge says.

Brothers might not intercept a lot of passes, but there won’t be a lot of people passing on him, Wooldridge notes.

A20

4A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: SKYVIEW HAWKS 2010 RESULTS

Aug. 27 at Twin Falls Sept. 3 ONTARIO (ORE.) Sept. 17 COLUMBIA Sept. 25 NAMPA Oct. 1 at Bishop Kelly Oct. 8 EMMETT Oct. 15 at Kuna Oct. 22 at Mountain Home Oct. 29 at Middleton * Nov. 5 at Sandpoint * Nov. 12 vs. Blackfoot * State playoff game

L 30-26 W 44-22 W 13-6 W 29-28 L 15-13 W 28-13 W 68-7 W 37-16 W 28-14 W 33-0 L 35-20

Hawks try to keep momentum going

2011 SCHEDULE Aug. 26 Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept.16 Sept. 30 Oct. 6 Oct. 14 Oct. 21 Oct. 28

at Fruitland KUNA MOUNTAIN HOME at Emmett at Caldwell at Nampa MIDDLETON at Columbia BISHOP KELLY

TEAM FACTS COACH: David Young, 8th season, 34-41 LAST YEAR: 8-3 overall, 6-1 4A SIC PLAYOFFS: Lost to Blackfoot in semifinals

OFFENSE

DEFENSE Skyview returns four defensive starters, all on the front seven. Kody Odom and Walker Jeffords are back at linebacker, while Ryan Rambo and Robert Davis are on the defensive line.

The defensive backfield will be a bit more inexperienced, as no one comes into the a varsity start.

“We’ve got to bring them along, but what better way to do it with a strong front seven,” Young said.

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Tanner Robison, Sr., RB/LB Robison was a first-team all-conference running back a season ago, picking up more than 850 yards on the ground.

Coach David Young calls Robison the team’s “spiritual leader,” saying the senior looked good at football camps all summer long.

“He has vision. He runs with power, heart and soul. He’s good,” Young said.

Walker Ray, Jr., TE/LB Ray was third in receiving yards for the Hawks as a sophomore, but he seemed to always be there when the Hawks needed a big play.

Against Columbia, he had a catch which set up the game-winning touchdown, then scored the game winner the next week against Nampa.

“When you run the play and you do what you’re taught, you kind of get in that zone, and that’s what he did in those big plays,” Young said.

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The Hawks look to run the ball a lot with Tanner Robison and Jacob Shaddox, but will have to replace four starters on the offensive line, as only Adam Rainsdon returns.

However, coach David Young said last year’s line was groomed for pass blocking, while this year’s, he says, is a bit more tenacious.

Zach Treinen steps in at quarterback to replace 4A SIC offensive player of the year Hunter Hyde.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Charlie Litchfield/IPT

The Skyview Hawks return four offensive and four defensive starters from their first state semifinal team since 2001.

Pride surrounds Skyview after playoff run in 2010

By JOHN WUSTROW jwustrow@idahopress.com

© 2011 Idaho Press-Tribune

The Skyview Hawks got a taste of success last season, and now they are looking for more.

Skyview reached the playoffs for the first time since 2006 and beat Sandpoint to advance to its first 4A state semifinal since 2001.

This year, the Hawks are ready to pick up right where they left off.

“We need to pick up the Skyview flag and carry it,” senior running back Tanner Robison said. “We ended

good last year, we need to keep that rolling this season.”

The success from last year, coach David Young said, David has helped to Young set a renewed sense of pride and higher expectations around the team.

He said he always had high expectations, but without results, it wasn’t always easy to get the kids to buy in.

“Without the proof it’s

High School Football

hard to always believe that,” the coach said. “You’ll talk to kids about making the playoffs or going to win a state championship, but you haven’t done it for so long that they’re kind of like ‘yeah right, coach.’”

This summer, Young said, has been the best summer in his nine years as Skyview coach in terms of showings at camps and improvements in the weight room.

“The kids know to maintain the high level the work needs to be done and they’ve been doing it,” he said.

Kody Odom, Sr., TE/LB Odom is a returning first team all-conference linebacker and could be a candidate for conference defensive player of the year this season. Listed at 5-11, 210 pounds, Odom, along with Gunnar Salois, give the Hawks a big presence at the inside linebacker position.

Walker Jeffords, Sr., TE/LB If Odom and Salois give Skyview size on the inside, Jeffords provides the speed on the outside. He was third in the 300 meter hurdles at the 4A Track and Field State meet, and according to Young, runs the 40 meters in 4.6 seconds.

“He’s 5-10, 185 pounds,” the coach said.

“He looks good and he runs fast. He’ll be one of our premier pass rushers.”

Friday, August 26, 2011

3A SNAKE RIVER VALLEY AND 2A WESTERN IDAHO CONFERENCE

Fruitland aims for repeat ‘We’re feeling pretty good’

By IDAHO PRESS-TRIBUNE sports@idahopress.com

© 2011 Idaho Press-Tribune

The Fruitland Grizzlies enter the 2011 campaign as the reigning 3A state champions, but if they are going to repeat, they will do it with a new group of players.

The Grizzlies lose tight end Tyler Graves, last season’s 3A Snake River Valley conference offensive player of the year, as well as six offensive and three defensive first-team all-conference players.

“I don’t think you ever really replace those guys,” coach Bruce Schlaich said.

“I think the tight end we have has a lot of the same qualities (Graves) had.”

Fruitland will return three two-way starters in

Joe Martarano, Scott Dayley and Daulton Blackwell, a three-year starter at running back.

Schlaich said the Grizzlies could start as many as three sophomores on this year’s squad, but even with the inexperience, the team still expects to make it to the 3A state championship game for the sixth year in a row.

Weiser replaces top running backs: One of the most dangerous duos in the 3A SRV a year ago was Spencer Chandler and Tyrell Braun. The Weiser running backs rushed for nearly 3,000 yards combined during their senior seasons.

“You don’t just replace kids like that,” coach John Srholec said. “You have different kids that come in. Each year you have kids waiting in the wings and do something different and are good.”

Waiting in the wings for the Wolverines this year are Mitchell Svedin, who was Weiser’s third running back a year ago and

newcomers Justin Roberts, Louis Negrete and Nick Stevenson. Those four players, Srholec said, will compete for three spots at running back.

Despite losing their top running backs from last year’s 3A state semifinal squad, Weiser returns a lot of talent. Of the 28 players on their roster, 18 are seniors and the Wolverines return nine starters on defense.

Payette looks to make playoff push: Injuries ravaged Payette last year, as the Pirates were the only team in the 3A SRV not to make the state playoffs. Now, the Pirates are healthy and are out to get back to the postseason.

“There was a little unfinished business from last year,” coach Troy Gleave said. “We thought we had the talent to do it, we just couldn’t get everyone on the field at the same time” The Pirates return six starters on offense and five on defense, including Woody Thomas, who was an all-conference linebacker last year. Thomas, a senior, was also an all-conference running back two years ago, and rushed for 500 yards in three games last year, before an injury limited his role.

By IDAHO PRESS-TRIBUNE sports@idahopress.com

© 2011 Idaho Press-Tribune

Larry Henggeler is confident.

The first-year McCall football coach obtains a core group who finished undefeated on the junior varsity level.

They’re rhythmic. They’re tenacious.

And they’re ranked second among 2A Western Idaho Conference teams by the Idaho Press-Tribune coaches’ poll.

“I’m hoping some of the successes translate over,” said Henggeler, who doubled last year as an assistant varsity coach and head JV coach. “We’re feeling pretty good about what we have.”

What they have is a double-wing system that differs from traditional powerhouses such as Fruitland. McCall prefers more of an aerial attack, a tweak allowing quarterback Matt Henggeler to find targets such as junior tight end Jeremy Springer, a 6-foot-6, 210-pounder with grit, hands and athleticism.

When they do elect to run, McCall

will turn to FB Todd Allen, a powerful downhill runner, or running backs Zach Lowen and Tyler Henggeler.

Defensively, twin linebackers Blaze and Milo Decker will lead a 4-3 system that specializes in blitzing and making opposing offenses uncomfortable.

Chargers hope to be better prepared: A lack of competitiveness and experience translated into a one-win campaign in 2010 for Cole Valley Christian.

Several games could have been wins, but too often, the Chargers didn’t display the ever-so-needed game sense and nose-for-the-football instinctive ability.

This year, however, coach Bill Meier believes Cole Valley is better prepared.

“We’re starting to cross the bridge to where they know what they should be doing,” says Meier, whose program has 34 combined players on the junior varsity and varsity levels. “It’s just a better grip of the game this year.”

The Chargers return Avery Westendorf, a reigning all-conference first-team defensive end.

“Not much gets past him on the outside edge,” Meier says.

Westendorf will play tight end, too. He’s part of a blocking unit along with linemen Joel Hiatt (guard) and Aaron Burnside (center).

Together, they’ll try and open lanes for quarterback Mitch Vanderwiel and utility player Will Meier, who will play a variety of positions.

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3A SNAKE RIVER VALLEY CONFERENCE: PARMA PANTHERS 2010 RESULTS

Aug. 27 MARSING Sept. 3 at Glenns Ferry Sept. 10 NAMPA CHRISTIAN Sept. 17 at Melba Sept. 24 WEISER Oct. 1 at Fruitland Oct. 8 HOMEDALE Oct. 22 at Payette *Oct. 29 at Kimberly *State playoff game

W, 70-24 W, 55-0 W, 23-19 W, 48-0 L, 56-26 L, 44-2 L, 25-21 W, 41-29 L, 42-41

Coach Platz: There’s potential

2011 SCHEDULE Aug. 26 Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept. 16 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 7 Oct. 21

at Marsing at Glenns Ferry at Nampa Christian MELBA at Weiser FRUITLAND at Homedale PAYETTE

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PLAYERS TO WATCH David Hemmert, Sr., RB/LB-S Pound-for-pound, he’s one of the strongest Panthers. He’ll play safety in a 4-3 cover 2 format, and will rotate upward when the Panthers feature their 4-4 format.

“David is almost fearless,” coach Luke Platz says.

“And that’s what I really like about him. It doesn’t matter how big, or who it is, he’ll stick his nose in.

He’s not afraid at all.”

Jake Crawford, Sr., RB/DB He’s yet to play varsity football — it’s his first year wearing pads since junior high. But Platz says Crawford is an intelligent player who’s learning quickly.

Crawford, who’s a 5-10, 170-pound speedster on both sides of the football, produces three-quarter lifts exceeding 800 pounds.

“Pound-for-pound, he’s probably our strongest,” Platz says. “What we’ve seen so far is good. He’s probably the top-two fastest on the team.”

TEAM FACTS COACH: Luke Platz, 1st season LAST YEAR: 5-4, 1-3 3A SRV PLAYOFFS: Lost to Kimberly in 1st round, 42-41

week,” Platz says.

OFFENSE Coach Luke Platz installs the Wing-T formation. His play-selection breakdown is likely 70-percent pass, 30-percent run — an effort to keep sophomore quarterback Cesar Gonzalez in more comfortable situations.

Senior offensive linemen Nick Bishop (6-6, 255 pounds) and Max Godina (5-10, 270) are expected to anchor the unit, and nurture sophomores Mason Shepherd and Dennis Nunez.

Platz moves Jordan Condie (6-6, 205) from offensive line to tight end. “(Condie’s) a little raw, but the potential for him is very high,” Platz says.

DEFENSE Platz will run formats such as a 4-4 and 4-3 cover 2.

The strength is the front-seven. Parma features beefy linemen in the likes of Bishop and Godina, the latter of whom is a returning second-team all-conference selection.

Condie plays defensive end, a position where he earned all-conference honorable mention status last season.

The secondary includes seniors Casey Prescott and Spencer Wheeler.

A23

Charlie Litchfield/IPT

Trevor Kramer is gone. Now the offense belongs to QB Cesar Gonzalez. ”He’s a fiery little guy,” coach Luke Platz says.

By BRUCE MASON

Johnson graduated, too.

Now the onus is upon a youthful © 2011 Idaho Press-Tribune group, led by first-year coach Luke Are the Panthers glory days gone? Platz.

The Idaho Press-Tribune coach’s “I think if we can get some good poll says they’re the cellar dwellers experience in our non-conference, of the 3A Snake River Valley anything can happen,” says conference.

Platz.

Last season, they “I think we have talent. endured a paw-licking It’s just how they handle the beating — fourth place in the experience.” conference. It was a surprisThe 3A SRV is loaded with ing development considering defending state champion their successful past, a domiFruitland and running pownating 2A reign concluded by erhouses Weiser and Homeback-to-back state titles. dale. But never disconsider However, those faces who Luke Parma, a community ripe built the program into a Platz with talented athletes, as conquering powerhouse evidenced by previous successes in cannot be relied upon for a rebound football and wrestling. effort this year.

“I think the potential is there,” Coach Greg Asbury retired after Platz says, “and it will be fun to see four years (35-7). All-conference them reach it, hopefully.” selections Randy Riley and Lance bmason@idahopress.com

High School Football

Marco Gonzalez, So., RB/LB His offseason weightlifting commitment added 15 pounds, Platz says. Gonzalez (5-10, 190) is more of a power runner — but he has the capability of making defenders miss tackles.

Last year, he was an honorable mention all-conference selection. This year, he’ll be a primary fixture in Platz’s Wing-T formation.

“I expect Marco to be one of the main names every Cesar Gonzalez, So., QB/DB Platz believes youth is a strength for Gonzalez, an energetic 5-7, 160-pound sophomore.

“It’s not the same, real-calm, real-cool quarterback,” Platz says. “He’ll probably show emotion a little bit more, and maybe the kids can relate to it a little better.”

Platz believes Gonzalez, who is primarily a runner, will develop his passing as he builds strength.

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Friday, August 26, 2011

3A SNAKE RIVER VALLEY CONFERENCE: HOMEDALE TROJANS 2010 RESULTS

Aug. 27 MELBA Sept. 3 NAMPA CHRISTIAN Sept. 10 at Vale (Ore.) Sept. 17 at New Plymouth Sept. 24 PAYETTE Oct. 1 at Weiser Oct. 8 at Parma Oct. 15 FRUITLAND *Oct. 29 at Fruitland * State playoff game

W, 55-0 W, 58-21 W, 26-21 W, 46-26 W, 39-14 L, 38-14 W, 25-21 L, 24-14 L, 54-30

‘We’re hoping to get some revenge’

2011 SCHEDULE Aug. 26 Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept. 16 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 7 Oct. 14

at Melba at Nampa Christian VALE (ORE.) NEW PLYMOUTH at Payette WEISER PARMA at Fruitland

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COACH: Matt Holtry, 3rd season, 9-8 LAST YEAR: 6-3, 2-2 3A SRV PLAYOFFS: Lost in 1st round to Fruitland, 54-30

OFFENSE

Charlie Litchfield/IPT

“We’re in the rough. But we got some diamonds,” coach Matt Holtry said about Trey Corta and others.

By BRUCE MASON

The Trojans boast the reigning 3A SRV offensive player of the year © 2011 Idaho Press-Tribune in the likes Trey Corta, a senior It took a few months until Matt quarterback who masters the zoneHoltry could watch the tape. read attack, as evidenced by his His Trojans had unbeaten eye-popping touchdown totals (21 heavyweight Fruitland rush, six pass) and amassed yardstaggering on the ropes in their 3A age (1,614 rush, 927 pass). state playoff matchup. They posed a “He’s one of those athletes that prime-for-the-upset gaze. They led don’t come around very often,” by nine at halftime.

Holtry says.

Then came the fourth quarter, Corta is an integral member of a and it all disappeared: Within a 50-second span, Fruitland exploded budding group of seniors who have for 21 unanswered points, turning a progressed under Holtry’s tutelage.

As sophomores, they were 3-5. As close game into a rout. juniors, they were 6-2.

“That was a bittersweet one,” This year, they hope to dethrone Holtry says. “Those kinds of losses never feel good, they never go away. the giant known as Fruitland.

“We’re hoping to get some re“This year is gonna be a different venge maybe this year.” story,” Corta says. bmason@idahopress.com

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Trey Corta, Sr. , QB/DB He’s garnered interest from Idaho State, Weber State, Montana State, and even Boise State — perhaps as a safety or slot receiver. Coach Matt Holtry believes Corta is one of the top athletes in the state — speed, power and smarts. “He definitely has the capability of playing Division I football,” Holtry says. “I’m a believer in God, and I just say, ‘God will take care of the scholarships and the accolades.’”

Mark Williams , Sr. , Center The 6-foot, 220-pounder was first-team offense in the 3A SRV conference, second-team all-Idaho.

Williams, who’s entering his third year as a starter, portrays vast knowledge of his position by communicating defensive fronts. He consistently performs an accurate snap in the shotgun spread offense — and then thwarts blitzing linebackers.

“He’s a true leader,” Holtry says. “Mark’s a key to our offensive line.”

TEAM FACTS

Eight starters return — including the entire offensive line, led by first-team all-conference center Mark Williams. Then there’s right tackle David Clampitt, who’s 6-3, 320 pounds. Other key players are sophomore tailback Ali Garcia (6-1, 205) and senior receiver Talon Freelove (6-2, 170).

PLAYERS TO WATCH

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High School Football

Bodie Hyer, Sr., FB/LB A broken ankle in the third week against Ontario ended his 2010 season. But the 6-foot, 195-pound Hyer is now 100 percent.

“He’s a brut, man,” Holtry says. “He brings it — whether he’s carrying the ball, whether he’s blocking, whether he’s playing linebacker and running downhill and tackling people. He’s a beast. He’s that guy who you need.”

Brett Shanley, Sr., WR Holtry’s impressed by Shanley’s progression in a one-year period. He’ll be the No. 1 receiver now that all-conference first-teamer Levi Elsberry graduated.

“Brett Shanley is going to surprise some people this year at wide receiver,” Holtry said.

While some receivers fall down easily after a catch, the trend differs with Shanley.

“He’s fast and runs through tackles,” Holtry says .“He’s a hard-nosed kid.”

A24

2A WESTERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: MARSING HUSKIES 2010 RESULTS Aug. 27 at Parma Sept. 3 VALLEY Sept. 10 GLENNS FERRY Sept. 24 NAMPA CHRISTIAN Oct. 1 MELBA Oct. 8 COLE VALLEY Oct. 15 at McCall-Donnelly Oct. 22 NEW PLYMOUTH *Oct. 29 at Kamiah * state playoff game

L, 70-24 L, 15-3 W, 20-19 L, 47-0 W, 39-0 W, 28-6 L, 34-0 L, 28-0 L, 28-6

2011 SCHEDULE Aug. 26 Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 6 Oct. 14 Oct. 21

PARMA at Valley at Glenns Ferry at New Plymouth NAMPA CHRISTIAN at Melba at Cole Valley MCCALL-DONNELLY

TEAM FACTS

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COACH: Jamie Wood, 2nd year, 3-6 LAST YEAR: 3-6 overall, 2-3 2A WIC PLAYOFFS: Lost to Kamiah in 1st round, 28-6

PLAYERS TO WATCH

No. 1 coaches’ poll squad is ‘scary’

By BRUCE MASON

Start with his bright yellow T-shirt.

The front reads, “Parma #1.” The © 2011 Idaho Press-Tribune backside says, “Parma hates Marsing.”

The sentiment across the Treasure It was Parma that crushed Marsing in Valley says this is the Huskies’ last year’s season opener, 70year: They’re ranked No. 1 in 24. And once again, it’s Parma the 2A Western Idaho Conferlisted as Marsing’s opening ence, according to the Idaho opponent.

Press-Tribune coaches’ poll.

“It’s gotta be burning these “It’s gonna be a tough team guys like it is us coaches,” he to play this year,” says New says.

Plymouth coach Porter Lacey.

Wood understands the “They are pretty scary right concept of motivation. And he now.” also understands the concept Jamie Wood, the Marsing Jamie of building: Another playoff coach, welcomes the high exWood berth can build momentum pectations. And he hopes last toward next season. Then the year’s 3-5 playoff qualifiers can climb community gets involved. The stands the proverbial ladder to a league title. fill. And adrenaline fills the players.

But in the meantime, Wood pro“And when these kids get to feel vides bitter reminders from last year’s that, I believe that will take their game season opener to his youthful team. to another level,” Wood says. bmason@idahopress.com

OFFENSE

DEFENSE

The offense is built around quarterback Austin Williams, whose targets include wingback Justin Glenn and receiver Jason Galligan. Williams will handoff to running backs Austin Glenn and Jesus Lino, the latter of whom presents danger for opposing defenses if he gets around the corner. They’’ll run behind left tackle Pedro Carrillo, who earned second-team all-conference status last season. Other returning linemen include Grayson Kendall and Bernando Galvez, who shifts from taking handoffs to blocking.

The 5-2 system has been scrapped for the 4-3.

The front seven will be keyed by Galligan, a defensive end, and Carrillo — a defensive tackle who coach Jamie Wood labels as “an animal.”

The secondary features Williams, who will play safety alongside either Tristan Jacobi and Dakota Hill. The cornerbacks are Miguel Leon and Hudson Sauer, a wingback who will primarily play defense to conserve energy.

Austin Glenn, Sr., RB/MLB Wood labels Glenn as a smart runner with a solid burst of speed. He flashes 40-yard times of 4.6 or 4.7 seconds, depending upon the day.

“He’ll be a force to be reckoned with,” coach Jamie Wood says. “Austin is built pretty good.”

Defensively, Glenn moves from last year’s nose tackle position to middle linebacker.

“He hits a ton,” Wood says. “He’s just a good all-around player for us.”

Justin Glenn, Jr., LB/WINGBACK His speed is similar to brother Austin: 4.6 or 4.7 in the 40-yard dash. With that, he’s a good route runner who can find creases in defenses.

It was on full display this summer during a 7-on-7 camp at New Plymouth High, where he snatched numerous touchdowns.

“He’s just going to be huge for us,” Wood says.

“Him and the quarterback mesh pretty good.”

Austin Williams, So., QB/S He was thrown into the fire last year when Wood started him as a freshman quarterback.

Now, he’s a stockier, faster sophomore who has the green light: He can rollout and pass, or he can tuck the football and dash downfield. His choice.

“We’re gonna use him as a runner and a thrower,” Wood says. “We’re spread out, and we’re ready to run it.”

Charlie Galvez, So., LB/RB He’ll see a few carries on offense, but Galvez is viewed as an integral piece to the Huskies defense. Therefore, he’ll primarily play strongside linebacker in an effort to stay fresh.

“He’s in the middle of all run plays,” Wood says.

“If there’s a run play, and they get up off the ground, Charlie is there. He’s just a magnet.”

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Friday, August 26, 2011

2A WESTERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: MELBA MUSTANGS 2010 RESULTS Aug. 27 Sept. 3 Sept. 17 Sept. 24 Oct. 1 Oct. 7 Oct. 15 Oct. 22

at Homedale L 55-0 at Payette L 40-8 PARMA L 48-0 NEW PLYMOUTH L 40-0 at Marsing L 39-0 at Nampa Christian L 51-3 COLE VALLEY CHRISTIAN L 40-26 MCCALL-DONNELLY L 51-20

2011 SCHEDULE Today Sept. 2 Sept. 16 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 6 Oct. 14 Oct. 22

HOMEDALE PAYETTE at Parma at McCall-Donnelly at New Plymouth MARSING NAMPA CHRISTIAN at Cole Valley Christian

Melba aims to be ‘Mustang tough’

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areas.

“He’ll probably be a two-way player either way,” the coach said. “He’s playing tight end as well. He’s a big strong, fast athlete who is one of those ultimate competitors.”

COACH: Jordon Coffin, 1st season LAST YEAR: 0-8 Overall, 0-5 2A WIC PLAYOFFS: Did not qualify

OFFENSE

DEFENSE The Mustangs will use multiple sets throughout the season, depending on what the situation is.

Much like the offense, the focus on the defense, Coffin said, will be on the front line.

However, who will be playing on that line is not yet set.

“We have a lot of competition at this point, it’s something that we want to create,” Coffin said. “There’s not always a lot of numbers at 2A schools, but what we are going to do (is) the best players are going to play. I don’t care if that’s a 14-year old freshman or an 18-year old senior.”

Friday, August 26, 2011

Chris Martinez, Sr. TE/DE Martinez played quarterback for Melba last year, but switches to tight end this season.

He’s put a lot of time in during the preseason, and, Coffin said, that will turn to physical play.

“He’s been leading by example,” the coach said. “Everything we’ve asked him to do, he does it. He does it 100 percent.”

Troy Richardson, Jr., QB/DE/TE Richardson is in contention for the starting quarterback job this fall, but even if he doesn’t get it, Coffin said the Mustangs plan on utilizing him in different

TEAM FACTS

Melba will run out of the double tight formation and will initially run the ball 80 percent of the time, coach Jordon Coffin says.

“We’ll go from there and see where our strengths develop,” Coffin said.

Coffin added that the Mustangs have a group of “partially experienced” returners, due to the fact that not many players started all eight games last year. A lot of the focus during the preseason, he said, is on the offensive line.

At the quarterback position, Coffin said the competition is between junior Troy Richardson and sophomore Danny Talbot.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Charlie Litchfield/IPT

The Melba football team looks to move past a winless season in 2010. The Mustangs welcome new coach Jordon Coffin, who was previously an assistant coach under his father, Layne, at Vallivue.

New coach looks to build new attitude within program

By JOHN WUSTROW jwustrow@idahopress.com

© 2011 Idaho Press-Tribune

Most high school football coaches had the entire winter to prepare for the upcoming season.

Jordon Coffin had less then two months.

Hired the second week of June, Coffin immediately began building a new culture among the Melba High football team, which went 0-8 a season ago. He wants to make Melba “Mustang tough.”

“I think kids get excited about it,” Coffin said. “I think they’re starting to

rally around it. We’re trying to build the Mustang Country. That takes a lot of hard work and effort and they’re starting to Jordon buy into it, I Coffin believe.”

Coffin took over a team which he said was in limbo due to the late start and the long transition process. But he said as soon as the players found out what the plan was, a solid percentage turned

High School Football

out for summer workouts.

“With change brings excitement,” he said. “I think that’s a natural thing. There’s been some great years in Melba High, there’s been some great traditions.”

And even though it’s only been a couple of months since he’s arrived, players are already starting to notice a difference in the program.

“He’s brought a lot of discipline to us,” senior Chris Martinez said. “We, in the past, didn’t work as hard and he’s (kept us) disciplined.

We’ve been working a lot harder.”

Riley Crossley, Jr., OL/DL The offensive and defensive line are two keys to the Mustangs’ success this season, Coffin said.

Crossley, a junior, will be a leader on both. The coach said Crossley has set a good example for the rest of the team.

“He’s been everywhere he’s supposed to be,” Coffin said. “He’s been physical and has the right type of attitude, and I think a desire to be good.”

Anthony Herrara, Jr., C/DT Herrara will be another player Coffin said who will play a crucial role in the success of the Mustangs’ front line.

The junior will be Melba’s center and has done a lot to improve during the offseason.

“He’s a guy that’s going to come in and do his work, but he’s a guy that’s developed over and over,” Coffin said. “He’s one of those guys that keeps getting better.”

A26

2A WESTERN IDAHO CONFERENCE : NAMPA CHRISTIAN TROJANS 2010 RESULTS

Aug. 26 Glenns Ferry Sept. 3 at Homedale Sept. 10 at Parma Sept. 24 Marsing Oct. 1 at McCall-Donnelly Oct. 7 Melba Oct. 15 at New Plymouth Oct. 23 at Cole Valley Christian * Oct. 29 Grangeville * Nov. 5 at Declo * State Playoff Game

W 43-14 L 58-21 L 23-19 W 47-0 W 10-8 W 51-3 L 48-14 W 60-0 W 50-31 L 30-28

Trojans look to continue success

2011 SCHEDULE Today Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 7 Oct. 14 Oct. 21

at Glenns Ferry Homedale Parma Cole Valley Christian at Marsing McCall-Donnelly at Melba New Plymouth

make it click.

“Great footwork, very disciplined kid, “ Barr said, “... he throws well on the run, he’s real shifty. He’s not a big kid but he’s quick.

“He’s not only a threat as run or pass, he’s a dual threat there.”

TEAM FACTS COACH: Bill Barr, 2nd season, 6-4 LAST YEAR: 6-4, 4-1 2A WIC PLAYOFFS: Lost to Declo 30-28 in quarterfinals

Unlike the trend towards spread, pass-happy offenses, the Trojans will attack foes with a formation that puts a premium on backs with the Wing-T. “It’s a four-back offense so it’s going to be difficult to key on one player,” coach Bill Barr said.

While one of the keys will be line play, led by Van Grouw and Gill, other key components include top returning running back Austin Holton (5-9, 170), receiver Jeff Butkus (6-0, 172) and quarterback Jake Campbell (5-9, 148), all seniors who give the Trojans three of their four Wing-T options.

DEFENSE When opponents have the ball, Nampa Christian will rely on a base 4-3 look, but one that will adjust to a variety of offensive threats the Trojans will see during their season.

“That’s what I like about the defense, it’s flexible,” Barr said.

Again, size will be an issue, but speed will be a benefit for the Trojans, as Barr says “what we do is, we’re a gap-control defense.”

A27

Jeff Butkus, Sr., WR/DB A second-team all-conference pick, Butkus will be a threat both in the passing game and an option running the ball.

“Jeff brings a lot of speed,” coach Bill Barr said. “He’s a good athlete, he’s a good skilled player so he’ll help us in the secondary and he’s a good running back.”

Jake Campbell, Sr., QB/DB Barr says the Trojans second-year quarterback is a great competitor who has a great knowledge of the Wing-T offense, and how to

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PLAYERS TO WATCH

Mike Stetson/IPT

Jake Campbell enters his second season as the starting quarterback for Nampa Christian.

Nampa Christian looks to overcome low turnout

By MIKE STETSON

who adds that about 30 © 2011 Idaho Press-Tribune kids are out They’ve built a tradition of for the team, success at Nampa Christian some playon the football field, and the ing football Trojans are set to add to that for the first tradition. time, “... so it’s Now with systems firmly in difficult to go place under second-year head two-ways.”

Bill Barr “But these coach Bill Barr, the Trojans Nampa Chrisopen the season today at Glenns Ferry, and look to build tian kids are hard workers, they’re very hard workers.” off a trip to the state playoff A lack of numbers means a quarterfinals a year ago. lot will be determined by the But, two hurdles face the health of team as the season Trojans, starting with numprogress, but Barr adds that bers. he and his coaching staff are “We’re short on numbers working players at multiple like anything else,” said Barr, mstetson@idahopress.com

High School Football

positions to create some depth to fight possible injuries.

The second major issue is experience on the line, as the Trojans return senior Rick Van Grouw (6-foot, 183 pounds) and junior Nick Gill (5-10, 200), who each will play guard. Gill was a second-team all-conference center last year.

While the line might lack experience, Barr does feel good about the foundation up front that is built on Van Grouw and Gill to lead the team’s Wing-T offense.

“In the Wing-T, this offense, you have good guards you have a really good offense,” he said.

Austin Holton, Sr., RB/LB Another secondteam all-conference pick, Holton is the Trojans top returning back having averaged more than 100 yards a game last year. In the spring, he won the 200meter state title in track.

“His speed’s getting better and better, he’s bigger, he’s faster, he’s going to have a great year,” Barr said.

Nick Gill, Jr., OL/LB Gill is one of two returning lineman and will switch from center to guard to help anchor the Wing-T offense.

“Nick is probably as tough as a lineman as I’ve had in years,” Barr said.

Friday, August 26, 2011

2A WESTERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: NEW PLYMOUTH PILGRIMS 2010 RESULTS

Aug. 27 at Payette Sept. 3 at Nyssa (Ore.) Sept. 17 HOMEDALE Sept. 24 at Melba Oct. 1 COLE VALLEY Oct. 7 MCCALL-DONNELLY Oct. 15 NAMPA CHRISTIAN Oct. 22 at Marsing *Oct. 29 OROFINO *Nov. 5 at Kamiah *Nov. 12 MALAD * State playoff game

W, 32-14 W, 34-6 L, 46-26 W, 40-0 W, 36-0 W, 28-0 W, 48-14 W, 28-0 W, 61-7 W, 41-14 L, 42-28

‘Play with more heart than skill’

2011 SCHEDULE Aug. 26 Sept. 2 Sept. 16 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 7 Oct. 14 Oct. 21

PAYETTE NYSSA at Homedale MARSING MELBA at Cole Valley Christian at McCall-Donnelly at Nampa Christian

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COACH: Porter Lacey, 3rd season, 14-5 LAST YEAR: 9-2 overall, 5-0 2A WIC PLAYOFFS: Lost in semifinals to Malad, 42-28

OFFENSE

DEFENSE The 3-5 base defense features linemen such as Henggeler, Luis Castro and John Cushman.

Six linebackers fit into a similar hard-nosed mold, led by Justin Smith, an honorable mention all-conference linebacker. Then there’s versatile junior Tyler Filler and hardhitting Nick Weeks.

Evans, a safety, is a reigning first-team allconference selection (4 INTs, 54 tackles).

Friday, August 26, 2011

Raymond Evans, Sr., QB/FS His athleticism is through the roof, as evidenced by three consecutive state wrestling championships.

As a quarterback, he’s impressed with his ability to improvise and limit mistakes.

“I don’t want him to run very much,” coach Porter Lacey says. “We’re gonna try and keep him stretching out the defense on the edges.

“The less hits he can take, the better off we’re gonna be. We’re gonna try and get rid of the ball quicker.”

Nick Weeks, Sr., LB/FB He was a second-team all-conference linebacker last season. His quickness and loose-freestyle pursuit factors into bone-jarring hits.

“I wanna say he’s the hardest hitter on our team,” Lacey says. “He brings that excitement: Get a big hit, get us fired up. It’s kind of a big deal for our defense.”

TEAM FACTS

Senior QB Raymond Evans’ No. 1 receiver is Dave Maillard.

Kacee Troutt, one of the team’s best athletes according to coach Porter Lacey, shifts into the slot from running back (58 rushes, 379 yards, 5 TDs last year). He’s a tall, physical target who gains yards after the catch.

Also returning is Jake Henggeler, a blocking and catching tight end who earned all-conference honorable mention status.

“I think our team is bringing a lot of speed,” Evans said.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Charlie Litchfield/IPT

Twenty percent of Raymond Evans’s catches last year went for scores (30 catches, 6 TDs). Now he’s a quarterback.

Back-to-back state semifinalists begin post-Harris era

By BRUCE MASON

bmason@idahopress.com

© 2011 Idaho Press-Tribune

Three straight trips to the 2A state playoffs.

Two consecutive appearances in the semifinals.

It’s evident New Plymouth High and football success have become synonymous among Gem State discussions — a form of branding created by the field generals of the past.

“It gives us kind of a name, and gives guys something they gotta try and live up to,” senior Justin Smith says. “I think that’s given the older

guys more and more fire, and it’s given the younger guys something to wanna shoot for.”

If the Pilgrims Porter Lacey continue the trend, it will be without graduated quarterback Brady Harris, the reigning 2A WIC player of the year. He amassed 5,856 yards through three seasons.

Last year, he accounted for 39

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touchdowns (27 passing, 12 rushing).

He’s one of several all-conference players who depart via graduation, which leaves reigning 2A WIC coach of the year Porter Lacey with a relatively young squad.

Smith, however, says courage and 110-percent effort can offset losses in personnel.

“It’s a young team, but faster than we’ve ever been,” Smith says. “It’s going to be a learning experience.

“We’re just going to have to play with more heart than skill.”

Justin Smith, Sr., LB/OL He’s a physical middle linebacker who tenaciously attacks the run.

“It’s hard to run on him,” Lacey says. “His mental toughness is something that you don’t see much in high school. The kid’s tough. That’s probably his biggest asset.”

Smith will also start at right guard.

“You just gotta play hard-nosed football,” Smith says. “Stick your head down, and do your job.”

Tucker Gerdes, Sr., OL Gerdes earned all-conference honorable mention status last season.

“He is a veteran on the offensive line,” Lacey says. “He’s not going to make mistakes very often.

“He’s pretty solid for us. I’d say his leadership is his biggest strength.”

Agility is a quality attribute for the 180pound Gerdes. As a guard, he displays the athleticism while pulling to the outside. He also plays center.

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1A DISTRICT III DIVISION I: GREENLEAF GRIZZLIES 2010 RESULTS Sept. 10 Sept. 17 Sept. 24 Oct. 1 Oct. 8 Oct. 22 Oct. 29

Idaho City Idaho City Wilder at Cascade Rimrock Notus at Horseshoe Bend

L 48-12 L 34-22 L 46-8 L 46-12 L 60-34 L 53-8 L 46-0

2011 SCHEDULE Sept. 9 Sept. 16 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 7 Oct. 14 Oct. 21 Oct. 28

Jordan Valley (Ore.) Horseshoe Bend at Idaho City at Wilder Cascade Rimrock Union (Ore.) at Notus

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TEAM FACTS COACH: Doug Anders, 1st season LAST YEAR: 0-7, 0-6 1A District III Division I PLAYOFFS: Did not qualify

OFFENSE With a new coach, players and fans should expect a new system, but coach Doug Anders admits that he’s still working the details out, adjusting plays he created while an 11-man assistant to the 8-man game.

A more physical style, though, will translate to the offense in more ground-game and less spread and pass formations.

“We’ll try and run the ball,” Anders said.

Key to the run game will be junior returning fullback/tailback Adam Dewberry, along with senior returning quarterback Brandon Fisk.

DEFENSE While coach Anders works on teaching his team to be more physical, the impact on defense will be a bit different.

“We’ll probably play off the line a little bit and try and utilize our speed a bit more,” he said, adding, “with their speed, I was surprised with how many points they gave up last year.”

Senior returning tackle Jonathon Post will anchor the line, junior Troy Watkins, a transfer from Parma, will lead the linebacking core and junior returner Dalton Penrod will be one of the team’s top defensive backs.

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New coach brings new attitude to Greenleaf

By MIKE STETSON

mstetson@idahopress.com

© 2011 Idaho Press-Tribune

Last season, the Grizzlies battled more than just foes on the field, they battled just to get on the field.

Low numbers led to a late start for Greenleaf’s football team, but the same can not be said this year as new coach Doug Anders brings a new attitude and excitement to the GFA sidelines.

“I think they’ve shown a great attitude and they’re excited and working hard,” Anders said of his team, which numbered 14 a week into practice.

The first-year Grizzlies coach believes he’ll have 16 players by the time the season starts on Sept. 9,

when GFA hosts Jordan Valley (Ore.), giving him optimism that his team will not only compete in varsity, but will be able to field a junior varsity squad this year, as well.

Of course, where the team needed some extra time to fill its roster last season, this year Anders is using the extra prep time getting his team adjusted to a new coach, and adjusting himself.

A former assistant coach at Homedale and Parma who also coached seventh-grade football at Nampa Christian and served as a track coach at Parma, Anders admits he is developing his own plays and system, and adapting both to 8-man football.

But the new coaches

time coaching track and younger players has helped him in one adjustment – teaching the Grizzlies to be more physical.

“We’re working on being more physical,” he said. “... We’ve been doing a lot of hitting. Hopefully we can avoid injures, but we’re kind of beating each other up.”

PLAYERS TO WATCH Brandon Fisk, Sr, QB Fisk played under center last year, bringing a season of experience with him, which coach Doug Anders said is invaluable.

“He never really got much guidance last year,” the new coach said.

“He can handle the ball and move it around well in the veer and option,” Anders added.

Jonathon Post, Sr., C/DT Post is a returning senior, who Anders said is “the most coachable kid,” and adds that Post has been working hard in the preseason on his speed.

“Since he’s been working he’s shaved a second off his 40 time.”

Troy Watkins, Jr., OL/LB The transfer from Parma is the most playing experience on the team, and already is familiar with

Anders, who helped the Panthers last season.

“He can hit, he’s one of our most physical players,” the new coach said.

Dalton Penrod, Jr., WR/TE/OLB/CB Another returner, Anders said he’s developing both speed and toughness, and is a great example of the new hard working attitude of the Grizzlies.

“He’s got a great motor and is becoming more physical,” Andres said.

Adam Dewberry, Jr., FB/TB/LB The team’s returning fullback will lead a deep ground game, and likely will be the featured back in the Grizzlies’ attack.

“He was probably the brightest spot on last year’s team,” Andres said.

RETURNING ALL-CONFERENCE PLAYERS FOR CASCADE, HORSESHOE BEND, IDAHO CITY AND RIMROCK First Team Name Chris Ferroni Jake Carpenter DJ Hazzard

Second Team Name Jacob Schimpf Jimmy Gridley Colter Lowe Oscar Gomez Jorge Mandragon

School Cascade Horseshoe Bend Idaho City

Position DL OL/DL RB

Grade Sr. Sr. Sr.

School Cascade Cascade Horseshoe Bend Rimrock Rimrock

Position QB DB LB P/DB DL

Grade Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr.

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Friday, August 26, 2011

1A DISTRICT III DIVISION I: NOTUS PIRATES 2010 RESULTS Aug. 27 Sept. 2 Sept. 17 Sept. 24 Oct. 1 Oct. 8 Oct. 15 Oct. 22 Oct. 29 * Nov. 5 * State Playoffs

at Salmon River MEADOWS VALLEY DIETRICH at Rimrock IDAHO CITY HORSESHOE BEND CASCADE at Greenleaf at Wilder GRACE

W 48-20 W 62-16 W 36-6 W 52-14 W 65-20 W 48-0 W 58-8 W 53-8 W 62-34 L 52-48

After league title, Pirates start anew

2011 SCHEDULE Today Sept. 2 Sept. 16 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 7 Oct. 14 Oct. 21 Oct. 28

SALMON RIVER at Dietrich WILDER at Harper (Ore.) RIMROCK at Idaho City at Horseshoe Bend at Cascade GREENLEAF

TEAM FACTS COACH: Brad Huter, 1st season LAST YEAR: 9-1, 6-0 1A District III Division I PLAYOFFS: Lost to Grace in quarterfinals

OFFENSE

DEFENSE Notus coach Brad Huter isn’t naming his defensive starters before the Pirates’opener against Salmon River, but did say the Pirates would be running out of the 3-2-3 formation.

“The less the other team knows, the better, I figure,” Huter said.“I figure after the first game everyone’s going to have film of us in one form or another.”

Tim Dranginis, a longtime head coach and athletic director at Notus, returns to take over the Pirates defense. Frahm is the Pirates only returning starter, but Huter said the defense is 10 to 11 players deep with solid guys who can hit.

Friday, August 26, 2011

Bryan Frahm, Jr., QB/LB Frahm was a defensive end and the backup quarterback last year. He got significant playing time under center in the Pirates win against Wilder a year ago. He enters the season as a full-time starter.

“He seems to be pretty calm in the pocket, he has a good, strong arm,” coach Brad Huter said. “He’s fast. When he runs the ball, he’s going to run it hard.”

Michael Barragan, Sr., RB/S After three years of waiting in the wings, Barragan finally gets his chance to start at running back.

“He is very smart, very shifty,” Huter said. “He can hit a hole and it breaks and he goes right on through. He has a lot of natural instinct at running back.”

Huter said Barragan, who was named one of the Pirates’ four captains, has stepped up and accepted a leadership role.

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The only starter returning on the offense will be lineman Manuel Luna. After that, the Pirates will replace the other seven starters. Bryan Frahm will take over as the starting quarterback, while his top targets will be wideouts Casey Wilbur and Steven Canales.

Michael Barragan and Devin Krasowski will be in charge of running the ball back. Both will also serve as backups to Frahm in the quarterback position.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Charlie Litchfield/IPT

Steven Canales is one of the many new starters for the Notus Pirates, which lost 10 seniors from 2010.

Defending conference champions start with new cast

By JOHN WUSTROW jwustrow@idahopress.com

© 2011 Idaho Press-Tribune

When the Notus football team takes the field this season, there will be little resemblance to the Pirates team that went 9-0 in the regular season and won the 1A District III Division I title in 2010.

Just two starters — one on offense and one on defense — return from a team which lost 10 seniors and only has three on this year’s squad, meaning a lot of

younger players will be getting their first varsity experience.

“I have faith in them,” Notus coach Brad Huter said.

Brad “You can’t be Huter scared to put them in there. You can’t be scared. You just got to understand who the player is and can they handle varsity action?”

High School Football

Huter himself, is in a new role, taking over as the head coach. Huter also serves as the school’s athletic director, girls basketball coach and track and field coach.

And while many of the faces playing the big roles may be new, the program goals remain the same.

“Everyone still wants to win,” quarterback Bryan Frahm said. “That’s our goal still. We still want to make it to state and have a good season.”

Devin Krasowski, So., RB/LB If there’s one word to describe Krasowski, it’s tough. Huter says he once played through an entire game in junior high with a broken collarbone.

“He’s probably one of the toughest kids around,” Huter said. “(The roster) says he weighs 160, but it might be a little on the heavy side. It doesn’t matter, he’s going to hit you like a freight train.”

Manuel Luna, Sr., OL/DL Luna is one of three seniors on the Notus roster, and the only one to get significant playing time last year. He was a first-team All-1A WIC Division I selection on

the offensive line.

“He has all of our experience,” Huter said.

“I’m probably going to be starting a sophomore and freshman next to him. It’s his job to teach them as quickly as possible.

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1A DISTRICT III DIVISION I: WILDER WILDCATS 2010 RESULTS Sept. 10 Sept. 17 Sept. 24 Oct. 1 Oct. 8 Oct. 15 Oct. 22 Oct. 29

at Adrian (Ore.) at Rimrock at Greenleaf at Horseshoe Bend Union (Ore.) Idaho City at Cascade Notus

L 80-34 L 22-18 W 46-8 W 34-20 W 66-16 L 36-24 W 30-22 L 62-34

2011 SCHEDULE Sept. 9 Sept. 16 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 7 Oct. 14 Oct. 23 Oct. 28

at Horseshoe Bend at Notus Rimrock Greenleaf Horseshoe Bend at Union (Ore.) at Idaho City Cascade

Wildcats set to take next step

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PLAYERS TO WATCH Antonio Rocha, Sr., RB/WR/DE A first-team all-conference pick at running back as a junior, Rocha will be a key on both sides of the ball and could either be an anchor on the defensive line at end, or a playmaker at linebacker.

“He’s a great athlete and I’d like to have him running around,” coach Kyle DalSoglio said.

Jesus Zavala, Jr., C/DE/LB A first-team all-conference defensive lineman at end and tackle, Zavala also is the offensive line anchor at center.

“He’s going to be a Dend (or) linebacker this year,” DalSoglio said.

TEAM FACTS COACH: Kyle DalSoglio, 3rd season, 9-6 LAST YEAR: 4-4, 3-3 1A District III Division I PLAYOFFS: Did not qualify

OFFENSE Wilder’s Fly-sweep offense starts out of the shotgun and looks to spread defenses out, opening up the middle of the field and exploiting some misdirection.

It’ll be a much-more balanced attack then is typical for the run-oriented 8-man ranks.

“I’d like to run the ball 30 times a game and I’d like to throw the ball 20 times a game at least,” coach Kyle DalSoglio said.

Returning backup quarterback Kass Rivera (6-0, 230) and freshman AJ Castellanos (5-6, 158), who each will take snaps.

DEFENSE On defense, Wilder will use a 3-3-2 formation, with the team’s strength upfront.

“Our D-line is going to be tremendous and our linebackers are going to be very good as well,” the Wildcat coach said, “and we’ve got good depth.”

Keys will be Rocha and all-conference junior defensive end Jesus Zavala (5-11, 236), who DalSoglio hopes will shift from their line position to linebacker, freeing them up run and make more plays.

Increased depth and experience might make that possible, as 6-4, 170-pound returner junior Casey Dillon will likely take over at one end position after being the team’s secondleading tackler at defensive back a season ago.

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Charlie Litchfield/IPT

Wilder quarterback AJ Castellanos will attempt to lead the Wildcats to the playoffs for the first time since 1998.

Wildcats on the prowl for first playoff berth in 13 years

By MIKE STETSON mstetson@idahopress.com

© 2011 Idaho Press-Tribune

Third-year coach Kyle DalSoglio has been building a program, and plenty of excitement, at Wilder High with hard work.

That hard work’s paid off in terms of numbers out for the team, but also in wins on the field. Now, the Wildcats look to cash in with their first state playoff berth since the fall of 1998, when they advanced to the state semifinals.

“The attitudes and the positive teamwork type of characteristics were not present (in the past) and I think that we’re starting to turn it around,” DalSoglio

said. “Now, pretty much the whole team is on the same page and we’re all going at the same speed in the same direction.”

Kyle The DalSoglio Wildcats have been on the cusp of the playoffs the last two season, but just short. Now, with numbers up from 16 players last fall to 23 this year, which includes losing just two seniors, DalSoglio and the Wildcats are optimistic about what they can do.

“We’re right there on the bubble, and there’s no ques-

High School Football

tion we’re a lot better team this year then we have been,” the third-year Wilder coach, who played and was an assistant coach at Eastern Oregon University.

The Wildcats definitely have plenty going for them, too: Depth, experience, speed and size according to DalSoglio.

“We’re a pretty skilled group,” he said, “we’re going to be really fast, that’s one of our things this year, we’ve got a lot of speed offensively and defensively. “(On the line) this year we’re looking really, really good. We’re going to be 230 (pounds), 230 and 190 upfront. For 8-man that’s really good.”

Jaime Miramontes, Jr., RB/LB The junior was a honorable mention pick at running back and will help both on offense and defense, as a linebacker.

“He’s going to be a real good player,” DalSoglio said. “He’s got a lot of speed and he’s real good with the ball.”

Casey Dillon, Jr., P/TE/DE The team’s all-conference punter also was a second-team all-league pick at cornerback for the Wildcats and will help out at end on both sides of the ball.

“He has tremendous effort, he’s all-out all the time,” DalSoglio said. “And at 6-4, he’s kind of a standout looking player, just having that size at the 8-man level.”

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