High School Football Kickoff 2012

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High School Preview

Friday, August 24, 2012

INSIDE

BIG SEASON OPENERS

Cover story..................................4

4A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE

Mountain Home Tigers..............23

5A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE

Caldwell Cougars......................13 Columbia Wildcats....................14 Bishop Kelly Knights.................16 Emmett Huskies.......................16 Middleton Vikings....................18 Kuna Kavemen..........................19 Nampa Bulldogs.......................20 Skyview Hawks........................21

3A SNAKE RIVER VALLEY

Boise schools schedules..............6 Vallivue Falcons..........................7 Centennial Patriots.....................8 Eagle Mustangs..........................9 Meridian Warriors.....................10 Mountain View Mavericks.........11 Rocky Mountain Grizzlies..........12

Nampa Christian Trojans...........32 New Plymouth Pilgrims .... ......33

Fruitland/Payette/Weiser..........23 Parma Panthers........................24 Homdedale Trojans...................26

1A DISTRICT III DIVISION I

2A WESTERN IDAHO CONFERENCE

1A DISTRICT III DIVISION II

Cole Valley Christian Chargers...28 Marsing Huskies.......................29 Melba Mustangs.......................30

Wilder Wildcats.........................38

Greenleaf Friends Grizzlies........34 Notus Pirates.............................36

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 local 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 high school sports blog for new information all season long at idahopress.com/blogs/sports.

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

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Greg Kreller/IPT

Lane Robbins and Skyview hosts two-time defending 5A state champion Coeur d’Alene tonight, and perennial 3A state contender Fruitland plays at 2011 4A state runner-up Middleton.

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High School Preview

Friday, August 24, 2012

TAKING IT TO THE NEXT LEVEL Columbia foursome has college aspirations as team drives for continued success after first trip to 4A postseason

By JOHN WUSTROW jwustrow@idahopress.com

F ERIC COTTON TE/WR

Committed to Stanford

MARIO JENKINS RB

Offered by Idaho State, received interest from Boise State, Washington, BYU A4

© 2012 Idaho Press-Tribune

or the first time in their seven-year history, the Columbia Wildcats are entering a season with playoff experience.

So it should come as no surprise that this year’s batch of Wildcats feature some of the best athletes the school has ever seen.

However, the amount of individual talent this year’s senior class possesses would be enough to make many high school coaches happy.

“My job, I can’t recruit kids, but I get what I get and I try to develop them,” fifthyear coach Derek Mertz said. “And I think, obviously, in three and a half years, those guys have come a long way and I’m excited to see what they do this year.”

Already, two Wildcats have committed to NCAA Division I schools — wide receiver/tight end Eric Cotton (Stanford) and offensive and defensive lineman Nick Edenfield (Idaho) — making them the firstever Wildcats to accept Division I football scholarships while enrolled at Columbia.

And two more Wildcats are hoping that they can double that number by the time signing day rolls around in February.

Running back Mario Jenkins received a scholarship offer from Idaho State at the end of this past school year, and says he has also spent quite a bit of time talking with Boise State coaches and attending their practices. BYU, Washington, Weber State and Montana Tech have all also shown interest in him.

Quarterback Austin Schaffer has no official offers yet, although he says he has talked with Idaho, Idaho State, Washington State and Army, as well as a few Division III schools.

“This senior class, the reason for being in the college devotement is all the commitment they put in,” Schaffer said, “They bought in as soon as freshman year hit.

They bought in and put in the effort, which made them become what they wanted to be.”

As the Wildcats have bought into Mertz and his philosophy, the results have shown on the football field. In 2011, Columbia had its most successful season in school history, finishing with a 7-3 record and a trip to the state playoffs, where the Wildcats lost to Hillcrest 53-14 in the first round.

With the newfound success at Columbia, expectations within the team are at a whole new level.

“The rise just continues to keep going,” Cotton said. “The weight room grows with varsity players every summer, it’s awesome to see.”

For Mertz, however, the success of the program goes beyond the ‘W’s’ and ‘L’s.’

The coach is of the belief that a player needs more than talent on the field to be successful. That’s why he institutes a tough grade check policy and has his players submit to random drug tests.

He admits that some of these policies may scare off potential players, but that’s what makes seasons like last year all the more gratifying, he said.

“I think last year was really a great season for us,” Mertz said. “We had a core group of guys, probably 15 or 16 guys that were 3.5 GPA or better. For us at Columbia, it hasn’t been ‘do you have talent walking the halls?’ It’s ‘can you stay off drugs, alcohol and can you stay eligible?’”

That’s a philosophy that the core group of Columbia football players have bought into, Mertz said. And the four Division I prospects all provide a model of that for the younger players.

“It’s almost like having little brothers,” Jenkins said about that leadership role.

“I have two younger brothers, but here, everyone’s my brother. You want to make sure you’re good outside the school and inside, during football.”

High School Preview

NICK EDENFIELD OL/DL

Committed to Idaho

AUSTIN SCHAFFER QB

Received interest from Idaho, Idaho State, Washington State, Army Friday, August 24, 2012

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High School Preview

Friday, August 24, 2012

8/17/12 12:17 PM

DISTRICT III: COACHES POLLS/2011 STANDINGS 5A Southern Idaho Conference 4A Southern Idaho Conference 2011 Standings

2011 Standings

Eagle Mountain View Capital Meridian Borah Centennial Rocky Mountain Timberline Vallivue Boise

Conf. Overall 8-1 10-2 7-2 7-3 7-2 8-3 6-3 6-4 5-4 5-4 4-5 4-5 3-6 3-7 3-6 3-6 2-7 3-7 0-9 0-9

2012 Preseason Coaches Polls Team 1. Capital 2. Mountain View 3. Rocky Mountain 4. Eagle 5. Centennial 6. Meridian 7. Borah 8. Vallivue 9. Timberline 10. Boise

First-place Votes 5 76 3 74 - 59 - 54 - 44 - 40 - 34 - 25 - 21 - 13 Note: 8-of-10 coaches voted

Skyview Middleton Columbia Nampa Emmett Bishop Kelly Caldwell Kuna

Conf. Overall 7-1 7-3 7-1 10-3 6-2 7-3 5-3 6-3 5-3 5-4 3-5 4-5 2-6 2-7 1-7 1-8

Mountain Home

0-8

0-9

2012 Preseason Coaches Polls Team 1. Middleton 2. Columbia 3. Skyview 4. Bishop Kelly 5. Nampa 6. Kuna 7. Caldwell 8. Emmett 9. Mountain Home

First-place Votes 4 59 2 53 1 50 - 45 - 32 1 29 - 20 - 16 - 12 Note: 7-of-9 coaches voted One coach voted two teams No. 1

5A SIC: BOISE SCHOOLS

3A Snake River Valley 2011 Standings

Fruitland Weiser Payette Homedale Parma

Conf. Overall 4-0 11-1 3-1 9-2 2-2 4-6 1-3 5-5 0-4 1-7

2012 Preseason Coaches Polls Team 1. Fruitland 2. Weiser 3. Payette 4. Parma 5. Homedale

First-place 5 - - - -

Votes 25 16 14 11 9

2A Western Idaho Conference

Aug. 24 Aug. 30 Sept. 7 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 4 Oct. 12 Oct. 18 Oct. 26

BORAH (at Dona Larsen Park) VALLIVUE (at DLP) at Eagle at Rocky Mountain at Mountain View CENTENNIAL (at DLP) CAPITAL (at DLP) vs. Timberline (at DLP) at Meridian

BORAH LIONS 7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 6 Sept. 22 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 11 Oct. 19 Oct. 26

vs. Boise (at DLP) at Centennial MERIDIAN (at DLP) MOUNTAIN VIEW (at DLP) TIMBERLINE (at DLP) at Eagle VALLIVUE (at DLP) CAPITAL (at DLP) at Rocky Mountain

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

1 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

2011 Standings

Nampa Christian Marsing New Plymouth Melba Cole Valley McCall-Donnelly

Conf. Overall 5-0 9-2 3-2 6-4 2-3 5-7 2-3 3-6 2-3 4-4 1-4 2-6

2012 Preseason Coaches Polls

1A RESHUFFLES IN DISTRICT III: While the IHSAA’s reclassification did not affect the 5A-2A schools in District III, three schools move from the 1A Division I to the 1A Division II level. Wilder, Horseshoe Bend, and Cascade join Tri-Valley, Garden Valley, Salmon River and Council in Division II. Notus, Greenleaf, Rimrock and Idaho City remain at Division I.

BOISE BRAVES

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

First-place Votes 3 21 - 19 1 13 - 12 - 11 - 8 Note: 4-of-6 coaches voted

CAPITAL EAGLES

TIMBERLINE WOLVES

Aug. 30 Sept. 7 Sept. 13 Sept. 21 Sept. 26 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26

Aug. 30 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 4 Oct. 12 Oct. 18 Oct. 25

at Eagle 7 p.m. at Mountain View 7 p.m.

VALLIVUE (at DLP) 7 p.m. vs. Timberline (at DLP) 7 p.m.

ROCKY MOUNTAIN (at DLP) 7 p.m.

MERIDIAN (at DLP) 7 p.m. vs Boise (at DLP) 7 p.m. vs. Borah (at DLP) 7 p.m.

CENTENNIAL (at DLP) 7 p.m.

at Rocky Mountain CENTENNIAL (at DLP) at Mountain View CAPITAL (at DLP) vs. Borah (at DLP) at Vallivue at Meridian BOISE (at DLP) EAGLE (at DLP)

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

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High School Preview

Friday, August 24, 2012

5A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: VALLIVUE FALCONS 2011 RESULTS Aug. 26 Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept. 16 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 6 Oct. 14 Oct. 21 Oct. 28

CALDWELL at Mountain View BOISE at Rocky Mountain CAPITAL CENTENNIAL at Eagle at Timberline (at BSU) BORAH at Meridian

W 40-13 L 20-6 W 44-26 L 44-40 L 42-18 W 35-28 L 50-12 L 33-21 L 42-20 L 69-49

Hungry Falcons ready to get going

2012 SCHEDULE Aug. 30 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 4 Oct. 11 Oct. 19 Oct. 26

vs. Borah (at Dona Larsen) 7 p.m.

ROCKY MOUNTAIN 7 p.m. vs. Capital (at Dona Larsen) 7 p.m. at Centennial 7 p.m.

EAGLE 7 p.m.

TIMBERLINE 7 p.m. vs. Borah (at Dona Larsen) 7 p.m.

MERIDIAN 7 p.m.

MOUNTAIN VIEW 7 p.m.

COACH: Layne Coffin, seventh season 35-23 LAST YEAR: 3-7, 2-7 5A SIC PLAYOFFS: Did not qualify

OFFENSE

DEFENSE After a year in the 4-3 defense, the Falcons switch back to the odd-man front they ran two years ago.

Kevin Schimmelpfennig, who has been on Coffin’s staff for five seasons, takes over as defensive coordinator.

Coffin feels very confident in the ability of his linebacking corp. Dallas Wallace is a returning starter, and Coffin is high on newcomer Anthony Castillo, but this is a very deep unit, the coach said.

A7

DALLEN COLLINS, SR., DE/OT After a strong junior season, Collins has landed on the radar of NCAA Division I schools.

He has received interest from Boise State, Idaho and Weber State. He has no offers yet, but coach Layne Coffin expects that to change.

“That kid can play,” Coffin said. “He’s a good defensive end and he’s a good offensive tackle.”

SEAN DAVIS, SR., RB He got some experience at running back last year, because of injuries to other backs, and this year he takes over as the Falcons’ feature back.

Coffin said he’s put a lot of work in during the offseason to get both faster and stronger, and is hopeful that the senior will peak at the right time.

“Sean has the ability to be one of the best in the state, again,” Coffin said. “We’re definitely going to give him that opportunity.”

TEAM FACTS

Sophomore Layne LaFollette gets the nod as the Falcons’ starting quarterback. He is a finesse runner who has some passing skills that coach Layne Coffin said can be developed.

“I really like his demeanor as a sophomore,” Coffin said. “I like his ability to, as we say, throw people open. He takes that to task and he does a really good job of getting better.”

Sean Davis will be Vallivue’s featured back, while BJ Verduzco gives them size at fullback.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Aaric Bryan/IPT

Eric Ford (54), Kyler Walton and the Vallivue Falcons look to improve from a 3-7 record in 2011.

Vallivue eyes state playoffs after missing out in 2011

By JOHN WUSTROW jwustrow@idahopress.com

© 2012 Idaho Press-Tribune

CALDWELL — The optimism at the start of last season for the Vallivue Falcons, didn’t exactly play out the way they had hoped.

What began as a dream of a second straight trip to the 5A state playoffs ended with a 3-7 record and a ninth-place finish in the 5A Southern Idaho Conference standings.

“Something was missing.

As soon as that season ended, we were ready to come back,” senior lineman Dallen Collins said. “We were hitting the weight room, we were ready

to roll.”

The struggles of last season fueled Vallivue players throughout the offseason, as sitting at Layne home while Coffin conference foes Eagle, Capital, Meridian and Mountain View all played in the postseason was not an easy feeling.

“We really had to change some things and get back to some things we believe in, like the weight room and High School Preview

making sure kids are doing the right things,” coach Layne Coffin said. “We just had to get back in (the) grind, like my first couple years here.”

By the time two-a-day practices began in early August, the Falcons had 36 players on their varsity roster, an all-time high for Coffin in his seven seasons at Vallivue.

“It’s about time we’re out here,” Coffin said after the long offseason. “It can never come fast enough when you’re in those situations.

We’re really excited to be here.

Hopefully the determination is to do things better than we have.”

BJ VERDUZCO, SR., FB After being named allconference honorable mention at guard last year, Verduzco moves to the fullback position, where he gives the Falcons size.

“He’s 232 pounds and he’s a tough kid,” Coffin said. “We think we got a little more weight this year.”

Verduzco won’t start on defense, but Coffin said he will have “some sort of role” there.

LANE SALE, JR., TE/FS At tight end, Sale provides a tall target for quarterback Layne LaFollette. He will also help anchor the defensive backfield at free safety, a position he moved to from linebacker midway thorough last season.

With Sale, Christian Cervantes and Zach LeBarrber all in the defensive backfield, Coffin said he thinks Vallivue’s pass defense will be strong.

Friday, August 24, 2012

5A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: CENTENNIAL PATRIOTS 2011 RESULTS Sept. 1 Sept. 8 Sept. 16 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 7 Oct. 14 Oct. 21 Oct. 28

CAPITAL vs Borah (at BSU) TIMBERLINE at Eagle at Vallivue MERIDIAN BOISE MOUNTAIN VIEW at Rocky Mountain

W, 35-28 L, 27-20 W, 48-13 L, 38-0 L, 35-28 L, 24-12 L, 27-20 L, 30-15 W, 21-2

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Seifert, Patriots put 2011 behind them

2012 SCHEDULE Aug. 30 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26

KAMERON DENISON, SR., MLB He steps into the defensive leadership role after playing in a part-time role last season.

The 6-foot-1, 200-pound Denison played with a broken left hand in the second half of the campaign. “It was challenging, but fun,” Denision said.

While he also plays on the offensive line, defense is Dension’s forte.

BORAH 7 p.m. vs. Timberline (at Dona Larsen) 7 p.m.

EAGLE 7 p.m.

VALLIVUE 7 p.m. at Meridian 7 p.m. vs. Boise (at DLP) 7 p.m. at Mountain View 7 p.m.

ROCKY MOUNTAIN 7 p.m. vs. Capital (at DLP) 7 p.m.

TEAM FACTS COACH: Lee Neumann, 23rd season, 160-72 LAST YEAR: 4-5, 4-5 5A Southern Idaho Conference PLAYOFFS: Did not qualify

OFFENSE The Patriots have experienced quarterbacks in Darian Seifert and senior Evan Radke, who started most of last season.

Senior Kody Brock will be the main ball carrier and senior Jake Gyer is the top returning wideout.

Senior Treyvion Foster has moved to tight end and is another solid target.

Senior Justin Sharp anchors the offensive line.

Seifert is excited about offensive coordinator Brent Koetter’s presence.

DEFENSE Centennial is rebuilding the defense with senior middle linebacker Kameron Denison being the only returning starter. The secondary lost solid players in first-team All-State selection Tom Sant along with cornerback Drew Pooley, but Denison has been impressed with the progress of junior strong safety Jake Wilmink and senior free safety Ryan Ochoa.

A8

DARIAN SEIFERT, SR., QB The 6-foot-1, 190-pound Seifert is highly motivated and brimming with optimism after last season’s misfortune. “Being hurt last year, I’m coming back with a little bit of a vengeance this year,” Seifert said. “I’m ready to go.”

Seifert was highly instrumental in Centennial’s summer passing camp.

Adam Eschbach/IPT

Centennial fullback Cody Denison, center, and the Patriots hope to return to the postseason after missing out in 2011.

Centennial hopes for better luck in 2012 season

By MIKE SULLIVAN sports@idahopress.com

© 2012 Idaho Press-Tribune

MERIDIAN — Darian Seifert is hoping that last season’s bad break will pay benefits a year later.

The Centennial High quarterback’s junior year was interrupted by a broken throwing hand, playing in only the opener and the finale. He counts on the lessons learned as a spectator translating into a solid senior campaign.

“It made me become more of a leader and more vocal because I couldn’t help my team

on the field,” Seifert said. “It definitely has improved me for this year, leadershipwise. You don’t want to go in and make the same mistakes Lee Neumann this year from what I saw last year not being on the field.”

Seifert and the Patriots are attempting to bounce back from a 4-5 campaign, and Centennial coach Lee NeuHigh School Preview

mann has added Brent Koetter as offensive coordinator. The presence of Koetter — the younger brother of Atlanta Falcons offensive coordinator and former Boise State head coach Dirk Koetter — does more than just broaden the offensive repertoire.

“He understands the entire game, not just one portion of it,” Neumann said. “He’s very, very energy-driven and hardworking. He’s very knowledgeable and sees more things than most average people do.”

KODY BROCK, SR., RB Centennial will be counting on the 5-foot-10, 170-pound senior to pile up yardage and be a capable replacement for Garrett Garner, a secondteam all-conference selection last season. The Patriots averaged more than 200 yards per game on the ground last season. Brock also plays cornerback on defense.

JAKE GYER, SR., WR The senior has good size (6-2, 180) and speed and is Centennial’s most experienced receiver.

He will be counted on to be a force this season — at least in Seifert’s eyes. “My definite go-to guy is Jake Gyer,” Seifert said. “He’s a stud and a second-year starter.”

Friday, August 24, 2012

5A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: EAGLE MUSTANGS 2011 RESULTS Sept. 2 TIMBERLINE W, 42-21 Sept. 9 vs. Capital (at BSU) W, 42-39 Sept. 16 vs. Boise (at BSU) W, 58-7 Sept. 23 CENTENNIAL W, 38-0 Sept. 30 at Meridian W, 29-13 Oct. 6 VALLIVUE W, 50-12 Oct. 13 vs. Borah (at BSU) W, 24-6 Oct. 21 at Rocky Mountain W, 52-7 Oct. 28 MOUNTAIN VIEW L, 37-16 *Nov. 4 LAKE CITY W, 58-7 *Nov. 11 HIGHLAND W, 42-21 *Nov. 18 vs. Coeur d’Alene (at BSU) L, 49-28 * State Playoff Game

Youth key factor for Mustangs

2012 SCHEDULE Aug. 24 Aug. 30 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 4 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 25

TEAM FACTS COACH: Paul Peterson, 8th season 54-20 LAST YEAR: 10-2, 8-1 conference PLAYOFFS: Lost 49-28 to Coeur d’Alene in 5A title game

The plan is to use speed, deception and counters in the triple-option, veer offense.

“We still want to try to put pressure on defenses in as many ways as we can, both horizontally and vertically, but we’re not just going to sit there and throw it all over the yard because we’ve got a great quarterback and great receivers,” coach Paul Peterson said.

DEFENSE Speed will be key on defense, along with a strong front three on the line, which will make the Mustangs tough run-stoppers.

All-conference defensive end, Corey Nielson (9.5 sacks), will help anchor the line, while newcomer Juan Medina-Cuenca (5-11, 310) is returning from injury, Peterson said.

“After watching (Medina) play a few days ago at a jamboree, it was unbelievable what he did to those people,” Peterson said.

A9

AUSTIN DIFFEY, SR., WR/CB One of the team’s few returning starters, Diffey caught 17 passes for 507 yards and five touchdowns.

“We’ve got to get the ball in his hands,” coach Paul Peterson said. “Diffey is very explosive, has the ability of making the tough, acrobatic catch. He’s a big play guy.”

J.T. WILLIAMS, JR., QB Williams is one of many new faces for the Mustangs, as he takes over as the signal-caller on offense.

“He’s not very big (5-foot-8, 170 pounds), but he’s really, really quick,” Peterson said. “In a triple-option offense, he has the ability of making plays with his feet and putting a lot of pressure on with his speed on the perimeter.”

LAKE CITY 7 p.m.

CAPITAL 7 p.m.

BOISE 7 p.m. at Centennial 7 p.m.

MERIDIAN 7 p.m. at Vallivue 7 p.m. vs. Borah (at Dona Larsen) 7 p.m.

ROCKY MOUNTAIN 7 p.m. at Mountain View 7 p.m. vs. Timberline (at DLP) 7 p.m.

OFFENSE

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Aaric Bryan/IPT

J.T. Williams takes over as quarterback, a spot at Eagle that has been held in recent seasons by Arizona State starter Taylor Kelly and BYU signee Tanner Mangum.

Team must grow up quick in always-tough 5A SIC

By MIKE STETSON

mstetson@idahopress.com

© 2012 Idaho Press-Tribune

EAGLE — Last season, All-American quarterback Tanner Mangum, surrounded by a veteran group of teammates, led the Mustangs all the way to the 5A state championship game.

Mangum now is a quarterback for Brigham Young, and Eagle finds itself facing a rebuilding season with a roster filled with little varsity football experience.

“We’re young and inex-

perienced. I don’t think we stink, but it’s a tough league, there’s a lot of teams that have a chance of making the Paul playoffs,” Peterson Eagle High’s eighth-year coach Paul Peterson said.

“We have just a handful of guys that have started a varsity game before, so we’re High School Preview

going to have to grow up in a hurry, but at the same token, we’re going have to be a little patient because we’re so young.”

The Mustangs do have some key returners at impact positions, with allconference defensive end Corey Nielson (6-foot-3, 210 pounds) back after leading the league with 9.5 sacks.

Also back is one of Mangum’s top targets in wide receiver Austin Diffey, along with running back Collin Ray.

COREY NIELSON, SR., DE/OT Another returning starter, he’s the lone 5A SIC all-conference returner on the Mustangs’ roster.

“He’s fast and he’s very long (6-3, 210) and he’s the returning sack leader in the league (9.5 sacks),” Peterson said. “He can put a lot of pressure on quarterbacks.”

COLLIN RAY, SR., RB Another returning starter, he’ll be one of the backs in the Mustangs’ triple-option offense.

“He’s a downhill runner, he’s extremely tough,” Peterson said. “He’ll do all the inside the tackle running for us, He’s just a tough, hard-nosed football player.”

Friday, August 24, 2012

5A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: MERIDIAN WARRIORS 2011 RESULTS Sept. 1 vs. Boise (at BSU) Sept. 9 at Mountain View Sept. 16 BORAH Sept. 23 ROCKY MOUNTAIN Sept. 30 EAGLE Oct. 7 at Centennial Oct. 14 CAPITAL Oct. 20 vs. Timberline (at BSU) Oct. 28 VALLIVUE *Nov. 4 vs. Highland (at Holt) * State Playoff Game

W, 55-14 L, 22-12 W, 41-36 W, 51-41 L, 29-13 W, 24-12 L, 21-6 W, 43-13 W, 54-41 L, 35-26

Rushing toward the road to state

2012 SCHEDULE Aug. 30 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26

TEAM FACTS COACH: Kip Crofts, sixth season, 26-22 LAST YEAR: 6-4, 6-3 5A Southern Idaho Conference PLAYOFFS: Lost to Highland in first round, 35-26

OFFENSE

DEFENSE There will be plenty of new blood on this side of the ball with senior defensive tackle Leo Barba and senior safety Tyler Smith being the lone returning starters. Crofts is high on senior middle linebacker Monte Huskey, an unproven but fiery competitor who primarily played on special teams last season.

“He got in sparingly,” Crofts said. “Last year, we had so many seniors on the defense that he didn’t get to play.”

A10

JACOB BERARD, SR., QB Berard doesn’t overpower opponents with his arm but is a force with his legs. He also has an uncanny knack for making the right read on the option.

“It’s a lot of quick-reaction reads,” Berard said. “You read the defensive end, you read the linebacker, and it’s pull or pitch.”

MASON HAMPTON, SR., C The reliable Hampton anchors an offensive line that helped the Warriors rush for nearly 3,000 yards last season. He also was a second-team all-conference selection.

“He’s a three-year starter and a big, strong, smart athletic center,” Meridian coach Kip Crofts said. Hampton will also play defensive tackle in Meridian’s evolving defense.

MOUNTAIN VIEW 7 p.m. vs. Borah (at Dona Larsen) 7 p.m. at Rocky Mountain 7 p.m. at Eagle 7 p.m.

CENTENNIAL 7 p.m. at Capital 7 p.m.

TIMBERLINE 7 p.m. at Vallivue 7 p.m.

BOISE 7 p.m.

Quarterback Jacob Berard and running back Bryson Stout will operate behind an offensive line that returns three starters in senior center Mason Hampton, senior guard Derek Purvis and junior tackle Richard Betancourt.

“They understand the offense and that’s half the battle, knowing what we do and why we do it,” Warriors coach Kip Crofts said.

Stout will be utilized in a variety of ways to keep defenses off-balance.

“He’s quick, he’s versatile and can play anywhere on the field,” Berard said.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Adam Eschbach/IPT

Meridian running back Darrian Lobato and the Warriors will stick with their triple-option rushing attack again this season.

Berard will be at controls of Warriors’ offense

By MIKE SULLIVAN sports@idahopress.com

© 2012 Idaho Press-Tribune

MERIDIAN — Meridian High coach Kip Crofts compares the proficiency level of senior quarterback Jacob Berard to Tanner Mangum, the all-everything signal caller that starred for Eagle High last season.

Not as a gunslinger, but as the area’s premier tripleoption quarterback.

“Eagle’s quarterback threw the ball all over the place, but Jacob reads and runs and pitches the ball, rather than

throws the ball,” Crofts explained.

“He’s a very good leader. He’s a smart, strong kid and he’s pretty hard to bring down.

Kip He’s a twoCrofts year starter at the position, which gives us a little bit of an advantage, too.”

Junior running back Bryson Stout will be the bell cow of the rushing attack that Berard thinks can propel High School Preview

Meridian into the 5A state championship title mix.

The Warriors only return two starters on defense, so how well that unit meshes may determine the fate of Meridian, which went 6-4 in 2011.

“I would say we have state potential and I feel like the coaching staff is pushing us to the point that we’re going to achieve that full potential,” Berard said. “There’s a lot of pride and motivation in all of us to get far in the playoffs.

I feel like everybody is on board.”

LEO BARBA, SR., DT Barba has a lot of potential and is experienced and Crofts hopes to see a breakout season.

“Leo is kind of a question mark,” Crofts said. “He’s a senior kid, and he’s a very good wrestler. He’s a natural team leader.”

Barba’s athleticism also earns him playing time on the offensive line.

MONTE HUSKEY, SR. MLB Huskey will also play fullback on offense and is a personal favorite of Crofts.

“He eats and breathes and drinks football,” Crofts said. “It is all about

football for Monte.”

Huskey minces few words when describing the defensive mind-set.

“The key to our defense is intensity,” Huskey said. “Flat-out intensity.”

Friday, August 24, 2012

5A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: MOUNTAIN VIEW MAVERICKS 2011 RESULTS Sept. 2 VALLIVUE Sept. 9 MERIDIAN Sept. 16 vs. Capital (at BSU) Sept. 22 vs. Timberline (at BSU) Sept. 30 BORAH Oct. 6 vs. Boise (at BSU) Oct. 14 ROCKY MOUNTAIN Oct. 21 at Centennial Oct. 28 at Eagle * Nov. 4 at Coeur d’Alene * State Playoff Game

W 20-6 W 22-12 L 19-7 W 49-28 W 38-14 W 30-6 L 24-17 W 30-15 W 37-16 L 27-14

Turner ready to take charge

2012 SCHEDULE Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 22 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26

at Meridian 7 p.m.

CAPITAL 7 p.m.

TIMBERLINE 7 p.m. vs. Borah (at Dona Larsen) 1 p.m.

BOISE 7 p.m. at Rocky Mountain 7 p.m.

CENTENNIAL 7 p.m.

EAGLE 7 p.m. at Vallivue 7 p.m.

COACH: Judd Benedick, sixth season, 32-18 LAST YEAR: 7-3, 7-2 5A SIC PLAYOFFS: Lost to Coeur d’Alene in quarterfinals 27-14

OFFENSE

DEFENSE Mountain View returns just three starters from the top defensive unit in the 5A SIC in 2011, but one of them is senior middle linebacker Lane Chadwick, a second-team All-State selection last year. Junior defensive end Jordan Duncan and junior safety Beau White (five interceptions) are both entering their third seasons as starters.

“We have to grow up in a hurry and find out if we can play football on that side of the ball,” Benedick said.

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LANE CHADWICK, SR., LB The senior team leader is the one player Mountain View can least afford to lose.

“He’s our quarterback on defense,” coach Judd Benedick said. “He makes all the calls, he gets everybody in the right place and he makes all the adjustments. He’s got a great motor, he’s really physical and he runs well to the ball.”

KAI TURNER, JR., QB Turner doesn’t make mistakes and his decisionmaking has been solid over his first two prep seasons. A rise in production is the next step.

“I feel a lot more comfortable with our offense than the past two years,” Turner said.

“Another year of experience can just do me more good.”

TEAM FACTS

Quarterback Kai Turner said he has furthered his comfort level with the offense and it doesn’t hurt that he has a solid group of returning receivers to work with in junior Josh Buss and seniors Connor Armstrong and Collin Sale.

“Connor and Collin are fantastic athletes,” coach Judd Benedick said. “They both have great speed and they also return kicks and punts for us.”

Left tackle Johnny Munger and center Dylan Garcia are the centerpieces of the line.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Greg Kreller/IPT

Collin Sale and the Mountain View Mavericks are eyeing the postseason again after a first round defeat in 2011.

Junior quarterback looks to carry Mavs this season

By MIKE SULLIVAN sports@idahopress.com

© 2012 Idaho Press-Tribune

Defense carried Mountain View’s squad last season, but now it may be Kai Turner’s turn.

The junior quarterback enters his third season as a starter and Mavericks coach Judd Benedick feels Turner is ready to take some upward steps.

“He’s had two offseasons to prepare and watch film, so what we’re hoping to see, and what we think we’ve seen so far, is he’s that much older

and wiser,” Benedick said. “So we now are expecting him to not just be one of the supporting roles, but the guy who is Judd really guidBenedick ing the ship and taking it in the direction it is supposed to go.”

Turner has been highly efficient and was intercepted just once all last season, when Mountain View comHigh School Preview

piled a 7-3 mark.

“I just want to make the smart play,” Turner said. “I don’t take any chances that could put my team in a bad position so we get behind.

I just want to keep us in the game.”

Mountain View lost to eventual state champion Coeur d’Alene in last year’s 5A playoffs.

“That put a bad taste in our mouths and all summer we have been trying to work it out,” senior middle linebacker Lane Chadwick said.

JOHNNY MUNGER, SR., OL/DL The 6-foot-4, 285-pound Munger will start at defensive end along with being a stalwart blocker on the offensive line.

“John is just a big, physical, good athlete,” Benedick said. “He plays on both sides of the ball. He’s another guy we can’t afford to ever have go down.”

JOSH BUSS, JR., WR/ DB The 6-foot-3, 190-pound junior was Mountain View’s top receiver last season. He’s a strong safety on the defensive side on the ball.

“He’s a really good athlete,” Benedick said. “He’s physical and not afraid to mix it up. Wherever you put him, you know he’s going to be the best guy at that spot.”

Friday, August 24, 2012

5A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: ROCKY MOUNTAIN GRIZZLIES 2011 RESULTS Aug. 26 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

L 37-24 L 41-28 L 39-20 W 44-40 L 51-41 W 40-27 L 28-23 W 24-17 L 52-7 L 21-2

Grizzlies look to play with ‘chip’

PLAYERS TO WATCH ADAM LEWIS, SR., DE Lewis made 13 tackles and recovered a fumble last season for the Grizzlies.

“Adam Lewis is very physical and he’s also really long and I think he’s going to have a big year for us on the defensive line,” coach Jason Warr said.

2012 SCHEDULE Aug. 30 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 27 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26

TIMBERLINE 7 p.m. at Vallivue 7 p.m.

MERIDIAN 7 p.m.

BOISE 7 p.m. vs. Capital (at Dona Larsen) 7 p.m.

MOUNTAIN VIEW 7 p.m. at Eagle 7 p.m. at Centennial 7 p.m.

BORAH 7 p.m.

JAKE KNIGHT, JR., LB He recorded 26.5 tackles and had a quarterback sack last season.

“Physically he is a big presence, he covers a lot of ground, really long,” Warr said. “He’s just starting to get more understanding of the game and leverage.”

TEAM FACTS COACH: Jason Warr, fifth season, 18-22 LAST YEAR: 3-7, 3-6 5A SIC PLAYOFFS: Did not qualify

OFFENSE There’s tons of experience back for the Grizzlies, which should mean productivity when looking to move the ball.

One huge key will be the return of four linemen — junior Isaac Reyna (6-0, 255 pounds) and seniors Eli McCullough (6-5, 271), Justin Tucker (6-4, 242) and third-year starter at center Andrew Belnap (5-10, 230).

They’ll protect veteran quarterback Riley Bradshaw (6-0, 185), a junior who threw for more than 1,200 yards and 12 touchdowns in eight games last season.

DEFENSE Don’t expect a set formation from the Grizzlies, as coach Jason Warr says his team will look to use its athleticism on this side of the ball, and try and adjust to what the opposing offense throws — or runs — at them.

“We’re just kind of letting our athletes work, and as the season goes on, let them be more instinctual and not thinking about stuff,” Warr said.

Those athletes include defensive back Khalil Oliver (6-0, 185), a bronze medalist at state in the 110-meter hurdles and the team’s No. 2 tackler last season.

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Aaric Bryan/IPT

Isaiah Johnson and Rocky Mountain have high expectations entering the 2012 season.

Rocky Mountain hopes to improve on three-win record

By MIKE STETSON

mstetson@idahopress.com

© 2012 Idaho Press-Tribune

MERIDIAN — With plenty of key players back on both sides of the ball, Rocky Mountain’s football program is once again thinking about what might be.

“We do have high expectations, and we had high expectations last year, too, but we were really young,” fifth-year Grizzlies coach Jason Warr said. “Now they’re a year older, more mature physically, they’ve worked hard in the weight room.

“I think as long as our kids progress and are willing to work, this is a playoff team.”

That experience shows on

both sides of the ball, as 14 players who started at least one game are back on offense, and six returners Jason are back on Warr defense.

“They should have a pretty good feel of the speed and what it takes,” Warr said, adding that the key is to continue to get better each and every week.

And also, not to settle for some success, even from play to play.

“Offensively we have to be High School Preview

consistent and not back off people … they just have to keep the pedal down, going forward,” Warr said.

Coming off a 3-7 season, the Rocky Mountain coach adds that he hopes his players play with a bit of a chip on their shoulder, knowing what it is like to be in the bottom of the standings, and not wanting to be there again.

“As long as they use that as a chip and are ... when somebody kind of just smacks them in the face they’ll smack them back, we’ll go as far as we want to go,” Warr said.

“They have that ability to be very good if they just work hard.”

RILEY BRADSHAW, JR., QB The Grizzlies returning quarterback completed 107-of-193 passes for 1,257 yards and 12 touchdowns, while adding 211 yards and a score on the ground, playing in eight games.

“As long as he continues to be that presence in the huddle and people realize he’s the man, and that confidence continues to build, he’s going to grow by leaps and bounds,” Warr said.

KHALIL OLIVER, JR., DB Oliver was second on the team with 38.5 tackles last season, and also was third in the 5A state track meet in the 110meter hurdles in 14.67, showing his speed and

agility, Warr said.

“He is a physical, athletic kid,” Warr said, “He had a great summer. Athletically he’s very gifted.”

Friday, August 24, 2012

4A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: CALDWELL COUGARS 2011 RESULTS 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

L 40-13 L 20-6 L 48-7 W 28-21 L 48-21 L 46-16 W 13-7 L 76-26 L 43-13

Will familiarity breed progress?

2012 SCHEDULE Aug. 24 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 4 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26

at Homedale at Middleton COLUMBIA at Mountain Home BISHOP KELLY at Skyview at Kuna NAMPA EMMETT

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COACH: Zach McGee, 2nd season, 2-7 LAST YEAR: 2-7 overall, 2-6 4A SIC PLAYOFFS: Did not qualify

OFFENSE

DEFENSE Caldwell allowed 40 points or more in six of nine games last season. Opponents’ pergame averages were 269.7 yards rushing and 162.8 yards passing.

“That’s really where we have to shore it up,” McGee said. “We can’t win many games if we give up 40 points and 300-something yards.”

McGee believes there’s more speed across the unit and an emphasis is placed on using linebackers. He expects leaders to be outside linebacker Lyle Kus, middle linebacker Laren Walker and cornerback Josh Lopez.

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LAREN WALKER, SR., RB/MLB Through his opening four weeks of 2011, he surpassed the 100-yard mark twice and posted these stats: 57 carries, 383 yards, three touchdowns. Then he endured an injury and touched the ball just five times the rest of the season. Now he’s healthy, and a focal point of the Wing-T attack. “We’re looking for big things from him,” coach Zach McGee said.

RYAN LANGAN, SR., TE/DE-OLB The 6-foot-2, 190-pound senior will play a defensive end/outside linebacker position. But, his “time to shine” will be at tight end as quarterback Josh Lopez’s top target, McGee said. “He’s going to be a big guy for us,” McGee said. “He’s a sure-handed guy who runs good routes. He’s looking to be a weapon that we can really start to feature.”

TEAM FACTS

Coach Zach McGee likens the Cougars’ Wing-T to the Middleton Vikings’ well-known attack. “We have a myriad of options,” McGee said. “We spread the ball around.

Hopefully more than one guy is going to rush the ball for 100 yards in a game. “ McGee notes junior Armando Prieto as a capable runner.

The Cougars will have to cut down on fumbles: The team posted 22 last season and lost 11.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Greg Kreller/IPT

Caldwell quarterback Josh Lopez will add a running dimension to Caldwell’s Wing-T offense.

McGee: ‘We’re trying to start something different’

By BRUCE MASON

bmason@idahopress.com

© 2012 Idaho Press-Tribune

CALDWELL — Seven seasons have passed since Caldwell finished above .500. Six seasons have passed since the Cougars reached the postseason.

The Cougars are 10-45 since the start of 2006, but their 2011 campaign featured a few bright spots under rookie coach Zach McGee. The positives included a solid rushing output (231.4 yards per game), and the end of a 13-game losing

streak that stretched across two seasons.

Now, McGee believes the team is more familiar with Zach his Wing-T McGee offense. Furthermore, incoming freshmen used the attacking style in middle school.

“We’re pretty excited,” McGee said. “We’ve kind of High School Preview

taken some steps to do some good things.”

Last season marked the Cougars’ return to the 4A level after a five-year stint in 5A. Their 2-7 finish was a stepping stone for a program that endured a winless season in 2010.

“We’re telling our kids, and our community: We’re trying to start something different,” McGee said.

“We kind of gotta shift our thinking into what we can do, instead of what we have against us.”

JOSH LOPEZ, SR., QB/CB Last year, he completed 35-of-89 passes for 471 yards and tossed more touchdowns (seven) than interceptions (four).

This year, he’ll be one of the options as a “hybrid” to carry the ball, but there’s a focus on throwing more often. “I think we’re really focused on trying to aid the strengths of our senior quarterback,” McGee said.

FABIAN LOPEZ, SR., OL McGee praised the development of Lopez, who is entering his third year of varsity action. He’s only 5-foot-8, but a summerlong commitment to the weight room lists him at 230 pounds. And a chip on his shoulder provides crushing hits in practice, said McGee. “I’m excited to see that against somebody other than our guys,” McGee said.

Friday, August 24, 2012

4A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: COLUMBIA WILDCATS 2011 RESULTS Aug. 26 CANYON RIDGE Sept. 2 at Mountain Home Sept. 9 at Caldwell Sept. 16 at Nampa Sept. 23 KUNA Oct. 7 EMMETT Oct. 14 at Bishop Kelly Oct. 21 SKYVIEW Oct. 28 MIDDLETON *Nov. 4 at Hillcrest * State Playoff Game

W 35-0 W 34-27 W 48-7 W 35-33 W 34-3 W 41-26 W 17-14 L 7-0 L 43-34 L 53-14

Wildcats take it ‘game-by-game’

2012 SCHEDULE Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26

at Canyon Ridge at Middleton MOUNTAIN HOME at Caldwell NAMPA at Kuna at Emmett BISHOP KELLY SKYVIEW

7 p.m.

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COACH: Derek Mertz, fifth season, 16-20 LAST YEAR: 7-3, 6-2 4A SIC PLAYOFFS: Lost to Hillcrest 53-14 in first round

OFFENSE

DEFENSE Columbia will run out of an odd-man front this season, with two defensive backs (Austin Schaffer and Colton Storrs), a lineman (Nick Edenfield) and a linebacker (Mario Jenkins) as the only returning starters.

“I think our D-line will be a strength this season,” Mertz says. “And our DBs, our safety position specifically, Colton’s a good corner.

The real question mark is our linebacker corp.”

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DAVID BRUNMEIER, SR., OL/DL Expected to go both ways for the Wildcats this year, Columbia coach Derek Mertz praised Brunmeier’s commitment to the weight room this season. The 6-foot-1, 265-pound Brunmeier doesn’t have the size of University of Idaho-bound lineman Nick Edenfield, but Mertz says he has pushed his teammate all offseason.

“That says something,” Mertz said about Brunmeier’s effort.

COLTON STORRS, SR., DB After 10 solo tackles, 16 assisted tackles and two interceptions last season, Storrs’ return is key for the Wildcats’ defensive backfield.

“He’s a fantastic cover corner, he’s very hard working, he’s actually extremely strong for his size,” Mertz said. “I think he squats almost 500 pounds. And he’s a great character kid.”

TEAM FACTS

Columbia brings in former Nampa High offensive coordinator Mick Morris to replace Jamie Wyant.

“Losing Coach Wyant is going to be an adjustment, because coach Morris’ style is a little different,” Columbia coach Mertz said.

“But we’re excited about that change as well. I think coach Morris is going to make us better.”

Eric Cotton was the Wildcats’ No. 1 receiver last year and Stanford recruited him as a tight end. Mertz wouldn’t elaborate which position Cotton would line up at for the Wildcats this season.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Aaric Bryan/ IPT

Colton Storrs attempts to haul in a pass as Tyler Rios tries to knock the ball away during a Columbia practice.

Columbia tries to stay level-headed with its success

By JOHN WUSTROW jwustrow@idahopress.com

© 2012 Idaho Press-Tribune

NAMPA — A new level of success. Potentially four major college football recruits. A brand new season.

Those are all reasons why one could argue the Columbia Wildcats could be 4A Southern Idaho Conference contenders come season’s end.

The Wildcats, however, aren’t ready to go that far, yet.

“We just want to take it game-by-game,” quarterback Austin Schaffer says. “I don’t want to look in the future any

further than that. Canyon Ridge is our first game, so we’re going to look forward to them.”

That’s the attitude that Derek coach Derek Mertz Mertz is looking for out of his players.

“If you get caught up at the end, you’re honestly not going to get there in this sport,” the coach said. “It’s not a cliché, we go one game at a time.”

Schaffer, who threw for High School Preview

1,723 yards and 19 touchdowns last season, is one of seven returning starters on offense for the Wildcats. In addition to its leading passer, Columbia returns its leading rusher (Mario Jenkins, 881 yards, 15 touchdowns) and leading receiver (Eric Cotton, 690 yards, nine touchdowns).

Defensively, however, the Wildcats replace seven starters, losing their top six leading tacklers.

“Because of all the newness and all of the new guys, we’re not sure where everyone is going to fit in,” Mertz said.

HAYDEN PAUL, SR., OL/DL A two-way starter, Paul will be snapping the ball to quarterback Austin Schaffer. Mertz calls him a “quiet leader.”

Mertz says Paul is getting looks at schools like Lewis and Clark College (Ore.) and the University of Puget Sound.

“He doesn’t miss a workout, comes to the offseason stuff, and he’s good,” Mertz said.

ROBERT SENA, JR., LB Sena joins the Wildcats’ defense after missing last season due to injury.

According to Mertz, he is a blue-collar player, much like his twin brother, Roland, who will play safety.

“They’re guys that are hardworking and they take to heart coaching, which some kids aren’t tough enough to do,” the coach said.

Friday, August 24, 2012

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Friday, August 24, 2012

4A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: EMMETT HUSKIES

Emmett hopes to continue trend

Huskies want to keep improving in the win column

2012 SCHEDULE Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Sept. 26

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

By JOHN WUSTROW 7 p.m.

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TEAM FACTS COACH: Michael Schroeder, first season LAST YEAR: 5-4, 5-3 4A SIC PLAYOFFS: Did not qualify

jwustrow@idahopress.com

© 2012 Idaho Press-Tribune

EMMETT — Three years ago, the Emmett Huskies suffered through an 0-9 season.

The Huskies have shown improvement every season since then, going 4-5 in 2010 and 5-4 last season, one win short of qualifying for the state playoffs. Now, under new coach Michael Schroeder, the Huskies aim to continue that upward trend.

With just three returning starters on both sides of the ball, Schroeder knows that the task won’t be easy, but it’s one he’s ready to embrace.

“We’ve got a tiny senior class,” Schroeder said. “It’s

OFFENSE

DEFENSE

Hunter Larson and Wyatt Smith will be the tandem running backs for Emmett, while Daniel Garz will be at quarterback.

Rashe Elliot is the defensive captain at inside linebacker, with Luke Hyde and Porter Gustin at outside linebacker.

good for me to lay a philosophy and foundation. But we can’t use our youth as an excuse. Hopefully we can surprise some people here.”

Schroeder, who takes over for former coach Jerry O’Mahony, was most recently the coach at Tahquitz High in Hemet, Calif., during the 2010 season. Prior to that he was linebackers and special teams coach at Mt. San Jacinto (Calif.) Junior College and the coach at Hamilton

High in Anza, Calif.

In addition to the inexperience, Schroeder says there are two challenges in being new to the community and taking over at a school which ranks eighth in enrollment in the nine-team 4A Southern Idaho Conference.

“The other schools have a little more to choose from,” the coach says. “I think our community and the support we have can overcome those challenges.”

PLAYERS TO WATCH HUNTER LARSON, SR., RB/LB Larson blew out his knee in the Huskies’ final game last season, but after undergoing surgery during the offseason, coach Michael Schroeder said Larson is ready to get back on the field.

AUSTIN SCHROEDER, SR., FB/LB He’s the coach’s son and the player who his father said is one of the strongest kids in the program.

“I think he’s had more fun here than I have in Southern Idaho,” the coach said.

WYATT SMITH, SO., RB/DB Smith will play at tailback and safety, but this sophomore, who Schroeder said is one of the “better athletes on the team” can play many different positions, including quarterback.

DANIEL GARZ, JR., QB Someone who Schroeder calls a “great academic kid,”Garz still has room for improvement, the coach said, but he’s happy with the way his signal caller has adjusted to Schoreder’s new offense.

4A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: BISHOP KELLY KNIGHTS

BK looks to get back up after ‘11

Knights suffered through losing season last year

2012 SCHEDULE Sept. 1 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26

SKYVIEW at Jerome at Emmett KUNA at Caldwell MOUNTAIN HOME MIDDLETON at Columbia at Nampa

TEAM FACTS COACH: Tim Brennan, 17th season, 130-40 LAST YEAR: 4-5, 3-5 4A SIC PLAYOFFS: Did not qualify

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sports@idahopress.com

© 2012 Idaho Press-Tribune

BOISE — Due to a large number of returners on both sides of the ball, optimism is high that Bishop Kelly can rebound from a down year and contend for the 4A state title.

The championship blueprint largely depends on the improvement of junior quarterback Bowen Ogata.

The Knights have called on new assistant Cody Hawkins, a former Bishop Kelly standout and college signal caller at Colorado, to aid Ogata’s development.

“Cody is working with him on vision of field. He throws the ball to the right spot and

OFFENSE

DEFENSE

Senior running back Andrew Spangler rushed for 1,033 yards last season and can take pressure off quarterback Bowen Ogata with a second consecutive standout season. Junior Turner Simmons is the top wideout.

The Knights are crushed about losing senior linebacker and team leader Shea Siegert for the season due to the second ACL injury of his career. Senior safety Cory Brady was a first-team allconference selection last year.

he has a great arm,” senior fullback Joshua Poole said.

“He reads plays a lot better than he did last year.”

Senior offensive tackle Neal Murphy has seen an upswing in Ogata’s leadership abilities.

“Last year, I would say that was one of his biggest weaknesses,” Murphy said.

“This year, he’s taking the High School Preview

initiative to lead and being a good leader of the offensive huddle.”

Bishop Kelly went 4-5 last season in Tim Brennan’s first season of his second stint at the school.

“Every time you put on a Bishop Kelly uniform and start a season, the ultimate goal is to win a state championship,” Brennan said.

PLAYERS TO WATCH NEAL MURPHY, SR., OL/DL Murphy has been a key cog since being a starting left tackle as a sophomore on Bishop Kelly’s state championship squad in 2010. He also is a standout defensive end.

JOSHUA POOLE, SR., LB/FB The 6-foot-1, 195pound Poole was a second-team allconference pick on defense as well as a solid receiver. He gained 15 pounds in the offseason and has improved his speed.

ANDREW SPANGLER, SR., RB He enters the season as one of the top backs in the area after earning firstteam all-conference honors last year.

“He’s a good running back,” Murphy said.

“He’s knows how to play football well.”

BRANDON HELGESON, SR., LB The senior’s importance has ratcheted upwards with the season-ending injury to Shea Siegert and he figures to be one of Bishop Kelly’s most productive defenders.

Friday, August 24, 2012

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Friday, August 24, 2012

4A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: MIDDLETON VIKINGS 2011 RESULTS Aug. 26 JEROME W 48-0 Sept. 2 at Caldwell W 20-6 Sept. 9 KUNA W 11-3 Sept. 16 at Pocatello L 43-22 Sept. 23 at Emmett W 15-0 Sept. 30 NAMPA W 44-34 Oct. 7 BISHOP KELLY W 31-24 Oct. 14 at Skyview L 20-17 Oct. 21 MOUNTAIN HOME W 76-26 Oct. 28 at Columbia W 44-33 *Nov. 4 at Lakeland W 42-20 *Nov. 11 POCATELLO W 53-22 *Nov. 18 vs. Blackfoot (Holt Arena) L 42-24 * State Playoff Game

Vikings back and hungry for more

FRUITLAND COLUMBIA CALDWELL at Kuna EMMETT at Nampa at Bishop Kelly SKYVIEW at Mountain Home

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TEAM FACTS COACH: Bill Brock, 13th season 60-57 LAST YEAR: 10-3, 7-1 4A SIC PLAYOFFS: Lost to Blackfoot 42-24 in state title game

Aaric Bryan/ IP

OFFENSE

Victor Dias and the Middleton Vikings fell one win short of the state title in 2011.

The double wing offense is what Middleton has been known for in recent years.

In this offense, the Vikingsuse a wide variety of running backs to carry the ball, with many of those backs coming back. Victor Dias got many of the carries last season, and he will be back for his senior year. But expect Max Foote, Skyler Elsworth and Michael Carr to also get significant touches.

Middleton motivated by loss in 4A state title game

DEFENSE A 4-3, cover two defense is what coach Bill Brock likes to run and that’s what Middleton will stick with this year.

The Vikings have depth at both the defensive line and in the defensive backfield. And with returning starters Cole Lowe and Blake Boren anchoring the linebacking corps, Brock has every reason to be confident in his defensive unit.

A18

SKYLER ELLSWORTH, SR., DB/RB A returning starter in Middleton’s experienced defensive backfield, coach Bill Brock said Ellsworth has the potential to be an all-state safety this season for

the Vikings.

“This is going to be his third year starting, so he knows what’s going on, he’s got a pretty good command of it,” Brock said. “We’re going to be relying on him to get us in the right coverage and the right checks for us.”

COLE LOWE, SR., QB/ FB/LB Lowe is one of four players going for the starting quarterback job, but even if he doesn’t get it, the Vikings can use him in a fullback position.

Defensively, he’s been a starter at linebacker since being called up to the varsity team late in his sophomore season.

“He came up and played with us and did a great job,” Brock said. “It progressed last year and he got better and better.”

2012 SCHEDULE Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 28 Oct. 4 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26

PLAYERS TO WATCH

By JOHN WUSTROW jwustrow@idahopress.com

© 2012 Idaho Press-Tribune

MIDDLETON — After three straight losses in the first round of the playoffs, the mantra for last year’s Middleton Vikings team was “win in November.”

Well, the Vikings finally did win in November — twice, actually — but they still ended the season with an empty feeling, falling to Blackfoot 42-24 in the 4A state championship game.

“It’s been eating at us quite a bit,” senior Luke

Hildebrandt said. “We try not to think about it a lot, but I think it crosses our minds every now and then. We try and imagine Bill what went Brock wrong, and how we can fix it, and how we can better ourselves.”

For Middleton, the goal is to get back to where they were, and once again, take the next step. Having many High School Preview

of its key players return, including most of their running backs — who play a crucial role in Middleton’s double wing offense — helps.

But coach Bill Brock knows that it’s going to take more than experience for Middleton to even get to the playoffs this year.

“It’s something we’ve been working hard to get back to that point,” Brock said. “We’ve got a very competitive conference. We’re going to have to play awfully well to get back in that position, we understand that.”

LUKE HILDEBRANDT, SR., FB/DL After being slowed by illness early last season, Hildebrandt is back in full force this season, and Brock said Hildebrandt will have a significant role on both sides of the ball.

While his spot on the defensive line is pretty much set, it still remains to be seen where Hildebrandt will play on offense. When he came back last season, Hildebrandt was effective on the offensive line, but he’s been practicing at fullback during two-a-days.

VICTOR DIAS. SR., RB With so many players getting carries in the double wing offense, it’s sometimes hard to define a feature back.

Dias probably came closer last year than anyone else. With that experience, Brock is confident in letting the senior lead by example, yet again.

“He knows what he’s doing, he’s a very gifted player,” Brock said. “We just need Victor to continue what he is doing.”

Friday, August 24, 2012

4A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: KUNA KAVEMEN 2011 RESULTS Aug. 26 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

L 41-6 L 54-7 L 11-3 L 28-7 L 34-3 L 26-0 L 13-7 W 34-28 L 55-21

Leslie preaches character, unity

2012 SCHEDULE Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 4 Oct. 12 Oct. 19

at Minico NAMPA at Skyview MIDDLETON at Bishop Kelly COLUMBIA at Emmett CALDWELL at Mountain Home

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COACH: Lee Leslie, first season LAST YEAR: 1-8, 1-7 4A SIC PLAYOFFS: Did not qualify

OFFENSE

DEFENSE Leslie will run a multiple set like he did at Bishop Kelly: Gap control, bend but don’t break. “The philosophy is don’t get beat deep on a single down,” Leslie said. The defensive line will be the unit’s strength. It features juniors Jordan Nolan and Jorge Garcilazo and senior Scott Marshall. Leslie says junior J.C. English (6-4, 215 pounds) is “something special.” CB Triston Youngblood will see more action during the second and fourth quarters.

A19

SPENCER TRAUTMAN, JR., LB/S/RB/QB Coach Lee Leslie likens Trautman to Cody McCarthy, who was named Idaho Gatorade Player of the Year in 2010 at Bishop Kelly and now is a sophomore middle linebacker at Eastern Washington.

“That’s the best compliment I can give a kid: Gatorade Player of the Year,” Leslie said about Trautman, who will get 25 touches a game.

TRISTON YOUNGBLOOD, SR., WR/CB Youngblood, who’s also a returner on special teams, is 6 foot 1, 195 pounds and runs a 4.5 in the 40-yard dash.

“Definitely a college prospect. Flys, got good hands,” Leslie said. Youngblood is the stepbrother of Shea McClellin, the Boise State alum who plays for the Chicago Bears.

TEAM FACTS

Coach Lee Leslie’s offense is a combination of the run-and-shoot, the Bill Walsh West Coast and the Urban Meyer spread. The quarterback is senior Kayden Votroubek, a sidewinder who can release the ball from any angle.

Leslie raves about freshman receiver Jake Johnson (6 foot 4), who runs good routes and has impressive jumping ability. “I would call him the best freshman in the state, handsdown,” Leslie said. “He’s got a ton of talent.”

Athletic junior Spencer Trautman will run the wildcat. “He’s about to explode,” Leslie said.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Adam Eschbach/IPT

Kuna senior quarterback Kayden Votroubek will lead coach Lee Leslie’s wide-open offense.

‘I know what coaches did for me. My dad wasn’t there’

By BRUCE MASON

bmason@idahopress.com

© 2012 Idaho Press-Tribune

The tents around the perimeter of Kuna’s football complex portrayed a brotherhood-like bonding. It’s the work of new coach Lee Leslie, a father-like figure whose 28year resume includes stops with the Boise Burn and Bishop Kelly Knights.

“There’s a lot more work than football to be done right now, ” said Leslie, who was an orphan in his youth. “I know what coaches did for me. My dad wasn’t there.

My coaches were.”

Leslie’s team bonding approach instills character and responsibility.

“BrotherLee hood” was Leslie the emphasis in 2010 at Bishop Kelly when Leslie coached the Knights to a 12-0 campaign that concluded with its second straight 4A SIC title and the 4A state High School Preview

championship.

Leslie, who is 154-94 in his career, now seeks to build more college-scholar athletes at Kuna. He’s produced 83.

The Kavemen missed the postseason four consecutive years, compiling a record of 5-31. Leslie says the goal is to make the playoffs, but the most important factors are outside the football field.

“I want them to focus on themselves and their character, getting all the simple things done,” Leslie said.

“The wins will take care of themselves.”

AUSTIN SILSBY, SR., OLB/OT He was named the fourth captain of the Kavemen in the waning days of training camp.

“He’s my personal surprise of the camp,” Leslie said. “He’s decided to be a man. Since I’ve met him in the spring, to now, I’ve seen a ton of growth.

“Austin is a heckuva ball player. He’ll be a college prospect, as well. “ STEVEN DOUGHTY, SR., CB/WR He runs a 4.6 in the 40-yard dash and will be a No. 1 receiver in Leslie’s wide-open offense.

“He’s got a lot of talent, lot of ability, lot of speed,” Leslie said. “Lot

of firepower there.”

Leslie said Doughty has capabilities as the team’s top cornerback as well. “He’s got some good hops,” Leslie said.

Friday, August 24, 2012

4A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: NAMPA BULLDOGS 2011 RESULTS 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

L 23-21 W 41-10 L 35-33 W 41-8 L 44-34 W 35-28 W 76-26 W 31-10 W 55-21

Choate era begins at Bulldog Bowl

2012 SCHEDULE Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 4 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26

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

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COACH: Jon Choate, first season LAST YEAR: 6-3 overall, 5-3 4A SIC PLAYOFFS: Did not qualify

OFFENSE

DEFENSE The 3-4 base defense will feature heavy zone pressure from four or five players.

The secondary features depth at the safety position in the likes of senior Jake White, junior Clint Bradbeer and Chrislip.

At the linebacker position, Choate likes the progression of seniors Chris Alvarez and Matt Grover.

Dylan Hammer, a senior nickel, will come off the edge, Choate says.

“You’re going to see him as a potential sack leader in our conference along with (senior) Hunter Pedersen,” Choate said.

A20

BRIAN ISOM, SR., CB/WR He features good speed and hands at the z-receiver position.

“If we get him the ball on the edge, he can make some things happen,” coach Jon Choate says. “We’ll run a lot of option stuff out of the Wing-T look, where we’ll try to get him the ball in space: Make one or two guys miss and take it to the house.”

VICTOR GALLARDO, JR., RT/NG He solidifies the right side of the offensive line along with senior Brandon Ashley and junior James Lineman.

Gallardo, who has good feet for his size, really blossomed at an offseason Eastern Oregon camp. “If he puts his hands on you, you’re going to move,” Choate said. “Victor is one guy who really stands out to me.”

TEAM FACTS

Seniors Brian Isom and Dillon Green will play z-receiver and Brandon Chrislip, a senior, moves to x-receiver after playing tight end last year.

Returning is senior Carlos Siguenza, who will play wing back.

“The skill positions, I’m not worried at all,” coach Jon Choate said. “I’m pretty confident that we have the talent to be successful.”

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Aaric Bryan/IPT

Nampa’s Jake White (carrying football) features “Devan Lesley speed,” according to Nampa coach Jon Choate.

‘I think we’re going to be an exciting team to watch’

By BRUCE MASON

bmason@idahopress.com

© 2012 Idaho Press-Tribune

NAMPA — It’s a new era inside Bulldog Bowl.

Six-year coach Scott Wooldridge resigned in December after compiling a 3624 record and three playoff appearances.

Also departing are offensive juggernauts Josh Bostrom and Devan Lesley, who combined for 47-of-53 touchdowns last season, 89 percent of the Bulldogs’ scoring.

“Those two are definitely going to be difficult to replace,” said firstyear coach Jon Choate, previously a defensive Jon coordinator Choate at Meridian High.

“Is there concern? Absolutely. But coming in here, I’m wiping the slate.”

Ten of Nampa’s all-conHigh School Preview

ference selections graduated, but Choate’s roster is composed of battle-tested players who helped the junior varsity team record an 8-1 mark last season.

Senior quarterback Kade Wilcox will lead Choate’s offense, a shotgun Wing-T base featuring multiple formations, motions and shifts.

“I think we’re going to be an exciting team to watch,” Choate said. “At times, you’re not going to know where the ball is going. It will be difficult to stop, I think.”

JAKE WHITE, SR., TB/S He’s an offensive spark plug who features “Devan Lesley speed,” Choate said.

“We tell our running backs: Make ‘em miss or make ‘em pay,” Choate said. “He wants to make ‘em pay all the time. He doesn’t avoid contact.”

At safety, White is a fierce competitor and very good tackler, Choate said.

HUNTER PEDERSEN, SR., TE/OLB He’ll play strong-side outside linebacker, the liberating “stud” position.

The last two players Choate coached at the position earned allconference honors at Meridian High. “You’re going to see him coming off that edge, with an end right next to him, wreaking havoc on some quarterbacks,” Choate said.

Friday, August 24, 2012

4A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: SKYVIEW HAWKS 2011 RESULTS Aug. 26 at Fruitland Sept. 2 KUNA Sept. 9 MOUNTAIN HOME Sept. 16 at Emmett Sept. 30 at Caldwell Oct. 6 at Nampa Oct. 14 MIDDLETON Oct. 21 at Columbia Oct. 28 BISHOP KELLY *Nov. 4 BLACKFOOT * State Playoff Game

L 24-14 W 54-7 W 59-14 W 52-22 W 46-16 L 35-28 W 20-17 W 7-0 W 28-27 L 35-25

Skyview mixing the old with new

2012 SCHEDULE Aug. 24 Sept. 1 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 4 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26

COEUR D’ALENE at Bishop Kelly KUNA at Mountain Home EMMETT CANYON RIDGE CALDWELL SKYVIEW at Middleton at Columbia

TEAM FACTS COACH: David Young, ninth season, 41-43 LAST YEAR: 7-3, 7-1 4A SIC PLAYOFFS: Lost to Blackfoot 35-25 in first round

OFFENSE

DEFENSE Sticking to a three-man front, Young said Skyview’s defense should be more aggressive than in years past and will run more blitz packages.

Kolo Tongamoa and Hudson Bekkedahl will both be on the defensive line, with Young saying others will rotate in. Kyle Cothern was a team co-leader in tackles (77) and the leader in sacks (5.5) and will be back to anchor the linebacking corp.

A21

LANE ROBBINS, SR., WR/DB Robbins was Skyview’s leading receiver last season, with 665 yards and eight touchdowns. Coach David Young said the Hawks can usually rely on the 6-foot Robbins to get open in any situation.

“He’s a huge play threat,” Young said. “He touches the ball and any play, he can score.

That’s what he brings to the table.”

KACY BONDS, SR., WR Young calls Bonds Skyview’s “Mr. Enthusiasm,” an emotional leader for the Hawks who can get to the ball for Skyview when needed.

“Just a big dude who’s going to make possession receptions for you,” Young said. “He’s going to catch everything, run a good route all the time.”

Bonds had 496 receiving yards and scored eight touchdowns in 2011.

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Skyview returns six starters on the offensive side of the ball, which gained more than 4,000 total yards of offense last season. But the entire offensive back field is new.

Anthony Marin follows Zach Treinen, Hunter Hyde and Sam Cook, all successful Skyview quarterbacks, but coach David Young said Marin brings something the others didn’t have.

“He’s probably the fastest, most athletic quarterback we’ve had in four or five years,” Young said.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Adam Eschbach/IPT

Skyview wide receiver Lane Robbins, right, led Skyview with 665 receiving yards last season.

Experienced receivers, fast newcomers key for Hawks

By JOHN WUSTROW jwustrow@idahopress.com,

© 2012 Idaho Press-Tribune

NAMPA — There will be some new faces expected to play key roles for the Skyview offense this season. But that doesn’t mean the cupboard is bare.

Sure Austin Ball and Jaxon Pryor will be expected to fill the shoes left by running back Tanner Robison. And Anthony Marin will follow in the footsteps of recently successful quarterbacks at Skyview High.

But Marin will have some proven receivers to throw it to

and those receivers have confidence in the guys who are going to be joining them on the field.

“It’s good to have guys David with experiYoung ence, but it’s also good to have that young talent,” said slot receiver Walker Ray. “Yeah, they might be raw, but they learn real quick.”

Ray joins Kacy Bonds and High School Preview

Lane Robbins as the core of Skyview’s pass catchers as the three seniors accounted for 132 of Skyview’s team total of 170 receptions last season and 1,656 of its 2,023 receiving yards.

But Pryor and Ball both have the speed necessary to fill the shoes of Robison. And Marin gives Skyview a threat with both his arm and his legs.

“We’ve got a tremendous amount of talent coming in this year,” Robbins said.

“We’re going to put up some big numbers on offense this year, hopefully.”

WALKER RAY, SR., TE/LB A three-year starter for Skyview, Ray has been able to provide Skyview with big catches late in games throughout his career. Last season, he finished with 495 receiving yards and scored six touchdowns.

“He just brings a little bit of everything,” Young said. “He’s a big guy, he’s got good speed, he’s got good hands, he can run routes, he can block.”

KYLE COTHERN, SR., LB Young calls Cothern the Hawks’ defensive leader and said he could contend for the 4A Southern Idaho Conference’s defensive player of the year.

“He kind of snuck in last year, not in terms of for us, but in terms of the area and the accolades and stuff,” Young said.

Friday, August 24, 2012

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High School Preview

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Friday, August 24, 2012

4A SIC: MOUNTAIN HOME TIGERS

Rodney new head coach IDAHO PRESS-TRIBUNE STAFF sports@idahopress.com

© 2012 Idaho Press-Tribune

Nine games, nine losses.

The winless 2011 campaign for Mountain Home was a dramatic descent for a program that reached the 4A state semifinals in 2008.

Coach Brian Floyd resigned after eight years, opening the door for first-year coach Aaron Rodney, whose resume includes various stops on the NAIA and NCAA Division II levels dating back to 2004.

“This program’s been struggling for a couple years. I’ve always kept tabs on it,” said Rodney, who graduated from Mountain Home in 1994. “Being an alumni, you’d like to see your school do better.”

Senior quarterback Ben Ceccarelli will lead the shotgun spread offense for

a group seeking continuity. It’s had four different offenses in four years.

“He manages the game well. He can beat you mentally and really keep the chains moving,” Rodney said.

Sophomore Jacob Ryan will split time at running back with seniors John Cook and Michael Danels. Danels will also play slot receiver.

Defensively, senior linebacker Jared Cantrell is an emotional leader who has a nose for the football.

Rodney says there’s potential and talent. But the first step was simplifying technique and executing.

“They’re coming off an 0-9 season, so the psyche was real fragile,” Rodney said.

“The first thing was getting these guys built-up, and having some confidence.

“I think we’re ahead of where we thought we’d be right now.”

3A SNAKE RIVER VALLEY Young Fruitland looks to continue recent success

By JOHN WUSTROW jwustrow@idahopress.com

© 2012 Idaho Press-Tribune

As the football season begins at Fruitland High, all eyes will be on seniors Joey Martarano and Alec Dhaenens, players who have committed to Boise State at linebacker and tight end, respectively. But there won’t be a whole lot of experienced players besides them.

In addition to Martarano, also an all-state quarterback last season, and Dhaenens, halfback Kris Olinger, receiver Hagen Graves and linemen Avon Herrera and Garrett Larson are the only returning starters.

Of the 38 players on Fruitland’s varsity roster, just six are seniors.

“I think our younger kids are going to have to step up,” Fruitland coach Bruce Schlaich says. “You kind of know what you’re going to get out of the upA23

perclassmen. How quickly you can get the underclassmen up to speed is going to determine how successful we are going to be.”

The Grizzlies, who have been to six straight 3A state championship games, will rely heavily on their juniors, many of whom were on the Fruitland junior varsity team which went 7-1 last season.

WEISER HOPES TO STAY COMPETITIVE: Since the 2006 season, Weiser coach John Srholec has helped the Wolverines maintain the same competitiveness that they have throughout his 14 years as the school’s coach, but there’s one team that has stood in the way: Fruitland.

During that time, the Wolverines have gone 40-12 against every other school, but 0-8 against their 3A Snake River Valley conference rivals, located about 20 miles upstream along the Snake River. That includes a pair of losses in the state semifinals over the past two seasons — by a combined four points.

“I think that’s a heck of a rivalry, even though we haven’t had many wins recently,” said Srholec. “We’re their obstacle to win the league and state title and they’re ours.”

Another obstacle for the Wolverines this

year is replacing 15 starters. Weiser had the largest senior class under Srholec last season, and returns just four starters on offense and three on defense. But despite all the losses, Weiser expects to be in the same position it has in the past couple years: Among the best in the conference and among the best in the state “We’re always looking to be good now,” Srholec said. “We like to think tradition doesn’t graduate. We want to be just as competitive as we have in the past.”

PAYETTE WANTS TO AIR IT OUT: As Payette prepared for the 2011 season, the Pirates were hoping they had something much of the rest of the conference did not: A quarterback with an arm. However, plans changed when Clint Blackwell broke his wrist during a preseason jamboree and missed the first half of the season.

With Blackwell injured and running back Woody Thomas putting up big numbers, Payette became a running team. With Thomas graduated and Blackwell healthy, the Pirates plan to pass a lot more.

“We’re going to be the exact opposite (of last year),” coach Troy Gleave says. “We’re going to be 70-30 pass to run this year.”

The Pirates also return defensive end and tight end Jonathon Stephens, who broke his leg against Fruitland last season, and allstate offensive lineman Andrew Galloway.

But with only 25 players on the team, Gleave says staying healthy is the key to the Pirates’ success this year.

High School Preview

Boise 2534 S. Apple Street, (208) 331-8473 • 1900 S. Cole Road, (208) 377-3400 • 5019 Fairview Avenue, (208) 375-4661 1190 State Street, (208) 342-5643 • Caldwell 320 N. 21st Avenue, (208) 453-8000 • Emmett 309 N. Washington Ave. (208) 365-5066 • Grandview 130 Highway 78, (208) 834-2277 Meridian 100 W Pennwood St. (208) 288-0981 • Mountain Home 330 S. Main Street (208) 587-7955 • Nampa 127 11th Avenue N (208) 466-9241 • Ontario 273 E. Idaho (541) 889-6714 730709

Friday, August 24, 2012

3A SNAKE RIVER VALLEY: PARMA PANTHERS 2011 RESULTS 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

L 27-14 W 20-13 L 21-15 L 20-6 L 56-12 L 39-0 L 14-0 L 27-13

2012 SCHEDULE Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 12 Oct. 19

MARSING at Vale (Ore.) at Nampa Christian at New Plymouth at Fruitland HOMEDALE at Payette WEISER

Can Platz & Co. rebound in ‘12?

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COACH: Luke Platz, second season, 1-7 LAST YEAR: 1-7, 0-4 3A SRV PLAYOFFS: Did not qualify

OFFENSE

DEFENSE Platz scrapped the 4-3 defense for a 3-5 approach. Senior Dakota Schimondle moved back to Parma from Blackfoot and will play defensive end along with senior Jordan Condie. The linebackers are Riggs, Marco Gonzalez, and seniors Fletcher Kelly and Scott Jensen. “We’re not real big, not real heavy, but we’ll fly around pretty good,” Platz said.

A24

DENVER RIGGS, JR., FB/LB Riggs, who will start on both sides of the line of scrimmage, came aboard late in the 2011 season and filled in for Marco Gonzalez, who missed time with injury.

“He’s one of the crazy ones. Fearless. You tell him to do something, he’ll do it. It doesn’t matter how big the guy is,” coach Luke Platz said. “He’s a natural football player.”

JORDAN CONDIE, SR., DE/TE His 6-foot-6, 215-pound frame provides a long reach at defensive end.

At tight end, he runs well for his size and improved his catching skills in the summer.

“Hopefully we can take advantage of that this year. Six-foot-six running across the middle is something I would love to see if I was a quarterback,” Platz said.

TEAM FACTS

Coach Luke Platz coined the name “Ping-T” for this year’s offense: The Wing-T meshed with the Pistol. Blocking schemes have been changed, which should help a running game led by junior fullback Denver Riggs and wingbacks Christian Cullen, a senior, and Marco Gonzalez, a junior. Quarterback Cesar Gonzalez, a junior, gained considerable muscle from last year. “I see him improving, definitely,” Platz said.

Platz expects a big year from senior receiver Jesus Arteaga. Sophomore Kade Walgamott has played center in practice for injured senior starter Drew Trent, who will “possibly” be back by the opener, according to Platz.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Adam Eschbach/IPT

Parma junior wingback Marco Gonzalez and his brother, quarterback Cesar Gonzalez, lead the Panthers’ offense.

‘Fly around and do your job, good things will happen’

By BRUCE MASON

bmason@idahopress.com

© 2012 Idaho Press-Tribune

The powerful 3A Snake River Valley conference has not been kind to the Parma Panthers, who recorded one victory in eight league games across the past two seasons.

In 2011, the inefficiencies of a sputtering offense plagued the Panthers, who averaged 10.0 points per game. That included a 12-points-in-three-games stretch which featured blowout losses to state semifinal-

ist Weiser and state runner-up Fruitland.

The Panthers, however, were young: They started five sophomores Luke and one Platz freshman.

The question now is: Can they use the experience and grow? There’s potential in the likes of quarterback Cesar Gonzalez, offensive High School Preview

linemen Dennis Nunez and defensive linemen Mason Shepherd and Jordan Condie, all of whom earned honorable mention all-conference status.

Second-team linebacker Scott Jensen and power runner Marco Gonzalez also return for a team that’s strength will be a tenacious approach.

“If you fly around and do your job, good things will happen,” said second-year coach Luke Platz. “If they buy into that, we’ll be alright.”

MARCO GONZALEZ, JR., LB/FB Last year, he battled several different injuries and missed considerable action which hurt the Panthers’ offensive output. Now, the powerrunning Gonzalez is fully recovered and appears on track to regain the form he flashed during his freshman season, when he earned honorable mention allconference status.

FLETCHER KELLY, SR., OLB/TE He’s a vocal leader on defense, a student of the game who communicates weekly with Platz about strategy, often sending him videos and messages.

“It’s nice to have a kid who does that. He’ll sit and talk with me in my office for hours,” Platz said. “If he wants to coach someday, he’ll be a good coach.”

Friday, August 24, 2012

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Friday, August 24, 2012

3A SNAKE RIVER VALLEY: HOMEDALE TROJANS 2011 RESULTS Aug. 26 at Melba Sept. 2 at Nampa Christian Sept. 9 VALE (ORE.) Sept. 16 HOMEDALE Sept. 23 at Payette Sept. 30 WEISER Oct. 7 PARMA Oct. 14 at Fruitland *Oct. 28 at Fruitland * State Playoff Game

W 63-6 W 48-3 W 56-0 W 69-22 L 22-20 L 49-0 W 14-0 L 57-0 L 47-20

Trojans must depend on young talent

2012 SCHEDULE Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct.19

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COACH: Matt Holtry, fourth season, 14-12 LAST YEAR: 5-4, 1-4 3A SRV PLAYOFFS: Lost to Fruitland in first round, 47-20

OFFENSE

DEFENSE Homedale is sticking with the 3-3 front, but Holtry said with only four returning starters from last year, they are shifting a few players around to different positions.

“In a traditional 3-3 stack you have your five linebacker-(defensive back) types,” the coach said. “We have some bigger guys in the linebacker spot than we’ve had before.”

Homedale’s strength on defense could come from its linebacking corps, where Robert Evans and Britt Eubanks play on the outside, and Brad McCain anchors the middle.

A26

ROBERT EVANS, SR., OLB/FB Homedale coach Matt Holtry calls Evans a “special athlete.” The senior has played offensive line, defensive line and linebacker in the past, and this season he takes on a

new role: Fullback.

“I’m fitting in, I guess,” Evans said. “It’s not that much different, just going out for passes a couple times. Other than that, it’s mainly just blocking like I used to.”

CALVIN BLACK, SR., RB Black had a few starts for Homedale in 2011, but now takes over as the featured back. He’s embraced his role as a leader in this position over the summer, Holtry said.

“He’s been 100 percent committed this summer, he’s been to everything we’ve asked him to go to,” the coach says. “He’s been working hard, and I think it’s going to pay off for him this year.”

TEAM FACTS

Homedale plans to continue running out of the shotgun and spreading out its offense. Senior Matt Hedrix will be starting at quarterback.

Coach Matt Holtry said that he expects Hedrix to pass more then his predecessor, Trey Corta, but that doesn’t mean he won’t be able to scramble when he has to.

“He’s not the fastest kid on the team, but he can still run a little bit,” Holtry said. “He’s more of a balanced QB.” Hedrix’s top two targets at receiver are expected to be Angel Cardenas and Xavier Hernandez, and Brad McCain returns at tight end.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Adam Eschbach/IPT

Homedale’s Robert Evans is one of four returning Trojan starters on defense and moves from guard to fullback on offense.

Homedale replaces seven starters on each side of ball

By JOHN WUSTROW jwustrow@idahopress.com

© 2012 Idaho Press-Tribune

HOMEDALE — As the Homedale Trojans take the football field this fall one thing is for sure — personnelwise, this is a team that looks much different than what was on the field last season.

The Trojans enter the season with the task of having to replace a majority of their starters: Seven on offense, seven on defense.

No hole Homedale has to fill however, is as big as the one left by Trey Corta, the

explosive playmaker at quarterback, who could hurt opponents with both his arm and his legs.

“We’re not expecting Matt anyone to Holtry come in and be Trey Corta,” coach Matt Holtry said. “Whenever you have a high-caliber athlete like that, it takes more than one person to replace that player.”

High School Preview

For Holtry, the task to replace Corta, now a walk-on cornerback at Boise State, is made easier by the fact that this is the fourth season for him and his staff at Homedale. The schemes all remain the same, so the players are running the same system they have their entire high school careers.

“As a program, after four years, you hope you look the same coming out,” Holtry said. “There’s some young kids that are going to have to step up and fill some spots for sure.”

BRAD MCCAIN SR. MLB/TE A two-way starter, Holtry said McCain is the team’s defensive captain and will be a key to the Trojans’ success on the field this season.

“He’s the cornerstone of our defense and we kind of rally around him,” Holtry said. “He’s going to be making the calls. You’re blessed when you have a senior in that spot.”

BRITT EUBANKS, JR. G/OLB The Trojans moved Eubanks into a starter role at the guard position midway through last season. This season, he will start at linebacker as well. Holtry said he likes the confidence he sees from the 6-foot-1, 205-pound Eubanks.

“As a junior, he’s already starting to step up and be a leader for us,” Holtry said. “He’s going to be a key player for us.”

Friday, August 24, 2012

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High School Preview

Friday, August 24, 2012

FRUITLAND GRIZZLIES

2A WIC: COLE VALLEY CHRISTIAN CHARGERS

Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 8 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12

‘WE’RE GOING TO COMPETE’ IDAHO PRESS TRIBUNE STAFF

COLE VALLEY CHARGERS

sports@idahopress.com

© 2012 Idaho Press-Tribune

MERIDIAN — Cole Valley Christian first-year coach Mike Vanderhoff said he got a chuckle when hearing about his team’s ranking in the 2A Western Idaho Conference. It was lower than he believes his team will finish.

“They better keep an eye on us.

We’re going to compete,” Vanderhoff said.

The Chargers return first-team allconference players in the likes of senior center Aaron Burnside and junior receiver Tallen Eveland.

The Chargers lost first-team defensive end and tight end Avery Westendorf, a walk-on offensive lineman at Boise State. But Vanderhoff likes the prospects of 6-foot-7 senior tight end Nate Jones, who he says is “not as thick” as Westendorf, but more athletic.

Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19

at Glenns Ferry at Valley at Melba at Marsing NYSSA (ORE.) NAMPA CHRISTIAN MCCALL @ New Plymouth

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“I feel so bad for the other schools, because they’re probably thinking Avery Westendorf’s gone, but now we’re bringing back another one,” Vanderhoff said.

Defensively, Cole Valley returns seniors Riley Wiedmeier, a second-team all-conference linebacker, and lineman

Zach Siedenstrang, an honorable-mention selection.

Junior quarterback Mason Vanderhoff is a passing threat who threw 31 touchdown passes last season in 12 ½ games between varsity and junior varsity action. He’ll lead a shotgun spread offense protected by junior lineman Jordan Peterson, an honorable-mention selection who dead lifts 455 pounds, and might see time at fullback.

“He’s a machine,” Mike Vanderhoff said. “I might just give him the rock and let him go.”

Cole Valley finished 4-4 last season — but nine of their 35 rostered players were freshmen. Their valuable experience coupled with 12 additional players in 2012 makes Mike Vanderhoff believe his team will be a tough opponent for 2A WIC foes.

“I think we’ll be quite competitive this season,” Vanderhoff said.

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2A WESTERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: MARSING HUSKIES 2011 RESULTS Aug. 26 PARMA Sept. 2 at Valley Sept. 9 at Glenns Ferry Sept. 23 at New Plymouth Sept. 30 NAMPA CHRISTIAN Oct. 6 at Melba Oct. 14 at Cole Valley Oct. 21 MCCALL *Oct. 28 GOODING * State Playoff Game

W 27-14 W 49-6 W 34-20 W 27-20 L 19-6 W 17-6 L 24-21 W 40-6 L 22-15

Running game key to success

2012 SCHEDULE Aug. 24 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 4 Oct. 12 Oct. 19

at Parma OAKLEY GLENNS FERRY COLE VALLEY at McCall NEW PLYMOUTH at Nampa Christian MELBA

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COACH: Jaime Wood, third season, 9-8 LAST YEAR: 6-3, 3-2 2A WIC PLAYOFFS: Lost to Gooding in first round, 22-15

OFFENSE

DEFENSE An experienced secondary returns in the likes of junior safeties Tristan Jacobi and Austin Williams, as well as cornerbacks Miguel Leon, a senior, and Hudson Sauer, a junior. Combine them with Charlie Galvez and Jason Galligan, and Wood thinks the unit can create turnovers. A few offensive linemen will play on the defensive line along with junior defensive tackles Ector Quebrado and P.J.Even (6-foot-5, 295 pounds).

A29

AUSTIN WILLIAMS, JR., QB/S Last year, he earned first-team all-conference honors at quarterback.

He completed 80-of-158 passes for 1,380 yards and 12 touchdowns. He also rushed 82 times for 228 yards and two scores. “I don’t think we’ve seen the best yet from him,” coach Jaime Wood says. “His legs could be one of his best assets, and we haven’t even really used them yet.”

CHARLIE GALVEZ, JR., LB/RB He was a first-team middle linebacker who led the Huskies in tackles (29 unassisted, 47 assisted).

“He seems to find his way into every play,” Wood says. “He’s just got a sense for the ball.”

Galvez also led the team in rushing yards last season (58 carries, 319 yards, three TDs).

TEAM FACTS

The Huskies scrapped the spread zoneblocking scheme and switched to the Pistol offense. Guards Lorenzo Lankow, a sophomore, and Raul Garcia, a junior, bulked up to add size to their speed, says coach Jaime Wood. Other linemen include senior tackles Angel Loera and Roy Olveria, sophomore tight end Garret Briggs and senior center Cody Rhodes. Jesus Lino, a senior, endured an injury last year which dampened the running game. But he’s healthy and Wood likes his prospects. Senior Justin Glenn was a second-team all-conference selection who can find the end zone.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Adam Eschbach/IPT

Marsing RB Jesus Lino features speed in the backfield for the Huskies offense.

Eight starters return on both sides of the football

By BRUCE MASON

bmason@idahopress.com

© 2012 Idaho Press-Tribune

MARSING — Jubilation to devastation. That was the flood of emotions for Marsing coach Jaime Wood in the final minute of last year’s first-round 2A playoff game.

Marsing’s Austin Glenn scored on a 1-yard run with 18 seconds left, then Jason Galligan delivered a two-point conversion. The game was tied, the sideline erupted, overtime loomed.

But on the ensuing kickoff, Gooding’s Derek Evans

dashed 85 yards for the go-ahead score and delivered a heartbreaking loss.

“You are at the very highest of Jaime highs, and Wood then in a blink of an eye, you’re at the lowest of lows,” Wood says. “I just cannot believe it, still to this day.”

But the experience builds character for a budding HusHigh School Preview

kies team who flipped their 3-6 record in 2010 to a 6-3 finish in 2011.

Now, eight starters return on both sides of the football for a team vying for its first conference title since 1997.

The key is the offensive line, which must provide a running game to complement the formidable passing duo of QB Austin Williams and WR Galligan.

“We have to be able to run the ball,” Wood says. “For us to get to where we want to be, then we’re going to be riding (the linemen’s) shoulders.”

JASON GALLIGAN, SR., DE/WR He earned first-team all-conference accolades on offense and defense.

He led the Huskies in receiving (36 receptions, 713 yards, six TDs), fumble recoveries (five) and sacks (eight). Galligan (6-foot-5, 220 pounds) attended Boise State’s summer camp and was offered to walk-on by Broncos defensive line coach Andy Avalos, according to Wood. Nevada, Weber State and Idaho State have expressed interest, Wood says.

GAGE RAMIREZ, JR., OT/DT The 6-foot-2, 240-pound junior is intense, strong and relentless. “He doesn’t give up,” Wood says. Eventually, he’ll play on the offensive line, but Wood wants to keep him fresh and limit him primarily to defense at the start of the season. “Right now we’re only playing him on defense because he gets so fired up,” Wood says.

Friday, August 24, 2012

2A WESTERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: MELBA MUSTANGS 2011 RESULTS Aug. 26 HOMEDALE Sept. 2 PAYETTE Sept. 16 at Parma Sept. 23 at McCall-Donnelly Sept. 30 at New Plymouth Oct. 6 MARSING Oct. 14 NAMPA CHRISTIAN Oct. 22 at Cole Valley *Oct. 28 at Grangeville * State Playoff Game

L 63-6 L 28-14 W 20-6 W 42-28 L 48-6 L 17-6 L 35-14 W 26-6 L 47-6

Melba enters year two of Coffin era

2012 SCHEDULE Aug. 24 Aug. 30 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19

at Wendell PAYETTE at Glenns Ferry COLE VALLEY at Nampa Christian MCCALL-DONNELLY NEW PLYMOUTH at Marsing

7 p.m.

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COACH: Jordon Coffin, second season, 3-6 LAST YEAR: 3-6, 2-3 2A WIC PLAYOFFS: Lost to Grangeville in first round 47-6

OFFENSE

DEFENSE Melba will run a four-man front and have a defense with five senior starters and six junior starters.

Coffin says the Mustangs have a defensive line which is young, but has potential, a strong linebacking core and a defensive backfield which could be strong, but injuries and illnesses have taken a toll on it during two-a-days.

The coach says he expects everyone to be healthy by the first game, however.

“I think we’ll have a strong secondary,” Coffin says. “I really believe that if it comes together, we can be a team that presents a really solid defensive front.”

A30

FABIAN MEDRANO, SR., RB/LB Medrano saw significant playing time as a freshman, but knee injuries kept him out for both his sophomore and junior seasons. Medrano, who coach Jordon Coffin says tried to practice on a torn ACL last season, is healthy and hungry this season.

“I know in the clutch, there’s probably nobody in the state that wants to be on the field more than Fabian Medrano,” Coffin says.

MICAH SPATZ, SR., TE/ WR/DB The 6-foot-3, 190-pound senior has been on the radar of a few NCAA Division I programs in the Northwest, as Coffin says Spatz has talked to Washington State and Eastern Washington and has also had Idaho show interest in him.

“He’s got an itch for physicality,” Coffin says. “At that safety spot, he wants to be physical, he wants to separate the man from the ball. He’s a great kid and he does it all the right ways.”

TEAM FACTS

Coach Jordon Coffin takes the same run-first philosophy that his father, Layne, has at Vallivue. The younger Coffin loves the doublewing offense and says it “establishes all the right things.”

In the Mustangs’ multiple-back set, Fabian Medrano, Adam Saurey, Russell Larsen, Wyatt Helm and Manny Medrano will all see time at running back.

Junior Danny Talbot will start at quarterback for the second straight season.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Greg Kreller/IPT

Junior Danny Talbot is a returning starter for Melba at the quarterback position.

Mustangs’ coach had full offseason to work with team

By JOHN WUSTROW jwustrow@idahopress.com

© 2012 Idaho Press-Tribune

MELBA — Jordon Coffin has now been at Melba High for more than a year, and he says that makes a huge difference.

The Mustangs’ secondyear coach took over the program in June 2011 and only had two months to get to know his team before two-adays started.

“Last year, I think, there were a lot of questions out there,” Coffin says. “Questions

from me trying to understand what was going on ... and the kids wondering whether or not we could be successful.”

Jordon A 2A state Coffin playoff appearance and a full offseason to prepare for this year have erased most of those questions, and now the Mustangs High School Preview

can fully focus on building a foundation.

“I think there’s more trust, there’s more faith, there’s more belief,” Coffin says.

“With those things come the opportunity for growth.”

Melba, winless two seasons ago, improved to 3-6 last year and beat Cole Valley on the final day of the regular season to earn a 2A state tournament berth. Melba lost to eventual state champion Grangeville in the first round.

ANTHONY HERRERA, SR., OL/DL Coffin says Herrera has developed during the offseason into a “physical leader” on the offensive line. The coach says he’s always been a hard worker, but this offseason, he has added a physical presence to his game.

“He is setting a tone,” Coffin says. “He showed up one day and decided he wanted to hit somebody for real.”

TEE ARCHULETA, SR. LB/OL A two-way starter, Archuleta embodies what Coffin says he wants all his players to be like, both on and off the field.

“Tee is a representation of all the things we want in a Melba football player: A multi-sport athlete, a great student,” Coffin says. “He’s the Melba man we want all our kids to be.”

A three-sport athlete at Melba, Archuleta also plays basketball and baseball.

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High School Preview

Friday, August 24, 2012

2A WESTERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: NAMPA CHRISTIAN TROJANS 2011 RESULTS Aug. 26 at Glenns Ferry Sept. 2 HOMEDALE Sept. 9 PARMA Sept. 23 COLE VALLEY Sept. 30 at Marsing Oct. 7 MCCALL-DONNELLY Oct. 14 at Melba Oct. 21 NEW PLYMOUTH *Oct. 28 OROFINO *Nov. 4 NEW PLYMOUTH * State Playoff Game

W 20-14 L 48-3 W 21-15 W 35-7 W 19-6 W 33-16 W 35-14 W 46-36 W 56-8 L 43-20

Trojans hope to snap drought

2012 SCHEDULE Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19

GLENNS FERRY at Homedale PARMA MELBA at New Plymouth at Cole Valley (Mer. High) MARSING at McCall-Donnelly

thing,” Barr said.

Defensively, Johnson had four interceptions in the regular season, returning two for touchdowns. He also returned a fumble for a touchdown in the playoffs against Orofino.

TEAM FACTS COACH: Bill Barr, third season, 14-8 LAST YEAR: 8-2, 5-0 2A WIC PLAYOFFS: Lost to New Plymouth 43-20 in quarterfinals

With last year’s quarterback, Jake Campbell, graduating, the Trojans are shuffling around much of their offense to fill spots — but they are sticking with the Delaware Wing-T. Trevor Lee, the Trojans’ leading rusher last year, switches to signal caller.

Zak Johnson, who lined up at receiver last year, moves to running back, while Tommy Taylor and Braden Brothers are expected to be Nampa Christian’s top two receivers.

DEFENSE The Trojans will run out of a 4-3 base defense, the same defense coach Bill Barr has run since he was at Homedale.

Only five defensive starters return from last year’s squad, which returned seven turnovers for touchdowns, including three in a 46-36 regular-season victory against New Plymouth.

“We’ve got some younger guys that are coming up that are going to help,” Barr said.

“We’ll see how they fit in.”

A32

TREVOR LEE, SR., QB/LB He takes over at quarterback after rushing for 904 yards and nine touchdowns last year.

“Trevor is a perfect quarterback in the Wing-T because he’s a running back,” coach Bill Barr said. “He’s a tough, gutsy kid.”

At linebacker, Lee had 29.5 tackles in the regular season.

ZAK JOHNSON, SR. RB/DB/K The Trojans’ utility guy, he lined up everywhere from quarterback to receiver to tight end last year.

“He’s the kind of kid who’s willing to do any-

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OFFENSE

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Adam Eschbach/IPT

Nampa Christian’s Zak Johnson can run, pass, catch — and even kick — for the Trojans.

Nampa Christian goal: Take first state title since 1981

By JOHN WUSTROW jwustrow@idahopress.com

© 2012 Idaho Press-Tribune

NAMPA — Ask Nampa Christian quarterback Trevor Lee about the Trojans’ state title drought, and there’s no hiding his feelings.

“It’s been 31 years,” the senior said. “Thirty-one years too long.”

No doubt, Lee and the rest of the Trojans still have a bitter taste in their mouths from the way the run at the school’s first state title since 1981 ended last November.

After going perfect through 2A Western Idaho Conference play, the Trojans met conference foe New

Plymouth in the 2A state quarterfinals. Nampa Christian looked to be moving on to the state semifinals, Bill taking a 20-0 Barr lead early in the second half.

Until the unthinkable happened. The Trojans, who entered the game giving up only 18.2 points per game, gave up 43 unanswered points, sending the Pilgrims to the semifinals instead.

High School Preview

“That one hurt, that still hurts,” coach Bill Barr said.

“For us to not be able to fight through that adversity ... (it) hurts more than if you felt like you didn’t have a chance.”

Nampa Christian has been using that loss as motivation as it prepares for its 2012 campaign. The Trojans have also used that loss as a way to point out they can’t take anyone lightly in the conference.

“You got to do it every week,” running back and defensive back Zak Johnson said. “You got to come out every week like it’s the championship week.”

NICK GILL, SR., OL/LB Barr calls Gill the Trojans’ “most physical” player.

He is the Trojans’ leading returning tackler, recording 50 during the regular season and forcing a pair of fumbles.

On offense, he starts at guard for a second straight season after starting at center as a sophomore.

“He’s got good football sense,” Barr said.

“To have him at middle linebacker and our strong guard, is great.”

PAYTON LEWIS, SR., FB/DE After starting the second half of last season at defensive end, Lewis is back as a two-way starter. Lewis was the state champion pole vaulter at the 2012 2A track and field state championship and finished in second at both the discus and 100 meters.

“He’s an athlete,” Barr said. “He’s got some athletic ability.”

Friday, August 24, 2012

2A WESTERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: NEW PLYMOUTH PILGRIMS 2011 RESULTS Aug. 26 PAYETTE Sept. 2 NYSSA (ORE.) Sept. 16 at Homedale Sept. 23 MARSING Sept. 30 MELBA Oct. 7 at Cole Valley Christian Oct. 14 at McCall-Donnelly Oct. 21 at Nampa Christian *Oct. 29 at Kamiah *Nov. 4 at Nampa Christian *Nov. 12 Firth (at Holt Arena) * State Playoff Game

L 30-14 L 32-6 L 69-22 L 27-20 W 48-6 L 31-28 W 28-8 L 46-36 W 41-40 W 43-20 L 26-7

Expectations high for semifinalists

2012 SCHEDULE Aug. 24 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 4 Oct. 12 Oct. 19

at Payette at Nyssa (Ore.) PARMA MCCALL NAMPA CHRISTIAN at Marsing at Melba COLE VALLEY CHRISTIAN

TEAM FACTS COACH: Porter Lacey, 4th season, 18-12 LAST YEAR: 4-7, 2-3 2A WIC PLAYOFFS: Lost state semifinal to Firth, 26-7

OFFENSE

DEFENSE Henggeler, a defensive end, was a secondteam all-conference selection along with Stallions, a cornerback, and Troutt, a linebacker, who had 53 tackles. Lacey said newcomer Hunter Wells, a safety, is good in coverage and likes to hit. Jacob Jamison was an honorable-mention linebacker last season, and will be moved around this year.

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KYLER HARRIS, SO., QB As a freshman, Harris completed 40-of-73 passes for 540 yards. He threw six touchdowns vs. seven interceptions.

Harris led a 41-40 win against Kamiah in the first round of the 2A playoffs, a game in which he completed 20-of-33 passes for 312 yards and four TDs. He suffered a concussion in the next round against Nampa Christian.

DAKOTA STALLIONS, SR., RB/CB At running back, he earned first-team allconference honors last season. He had four games with100-plus yards on the ground. He rushed 118 times for 785 yards and three touchdowns.

Stallions was a second team all-conference cornerback with 36 tackles and three interceptions.

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Coach Porter Lacey’s offense has featured a balanced attack ever since Brady Harris was quarterback. Now, his younger brother, Kyler Harris, is the signal caller for a team that features athletic senior running backs Dakota Stallions and Kacee Troutt (94 carries, 608 yards). Lacey calls tight end Jake Henggeler “probably one of our most valuable players on offense.” Newcomers Luis Castro, a senior, and Marcus Davis, a sophomore, have performed admirably on the offensive line in practices. Honorable mention all-conference offensive lineman John Cushman returns.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Adam Eschbach/IPT

New Plymouth’s Dakota Stallions surpassed the 100-yard rushing mark in four games last season.

‘There’s not a team out there we cannot compete with’

By BRUCE MASON

bmason@idahopress.com

© 2012 Idaho Press-Tribune

NEW PLYMOUTH — Very rarely does a team start 0-4 and reach the state semifinals, but New Plymouth took such a route in 2011.

The improbable run was marked by back-to-back dramatic playoff victories, including a magical secondhalf rally at Nampa Christian that erased a 20-0 deficit.

It marked the program’s third straight trip to the final four under coach Porter

Lacey, who has yet to experience a season without a playoff berth in his four years on the New Plymouth sidelines.

Porter Now, the Lacey Pilgrims will have to survive without ultra-athlete Raymond Evans and hard-nosed leader Justin Smith, who depart via graduation, a tandem who helped High School Preview

the Pilgrims make their name as a 2A contender.

But that shouldn’t be an issue for Lacey, whose team is loaded with seniors and talent on both sides of the line of scrimmage.

“Our expectations last year weren’t near what they are this year,” said Lacey, whose team fell 26-7 to Firth at Holt Arena in the semifinals. “There’s not a team out there we cannot compete with in the 2As. “We’re pretty excited to get this year started.”

TYLER FILLER, SR., RG/DT Quick, strong and intelligent, Filler is a leader whose strength and speed make up for a lack of height. He will be the leader for a unit that loses first-team allconference guard Justin Smith. “(Filler’s) one of the best offensive and defensive linemen we’ve had since I’ve been at New Plymouth,” coach Porter Lacey said.

JAKE HENGGELER, SR., TE/DE He’s a physical player who controls the opponent on both sides of the line of scrimmage.

Lacey says Henggeler is a prime example of a hybrid tight end: He has blocking skills, soft hands, route-running ability and protects the football. Defensively, Henggeler shuts down the opposing team’s sweep as the contain guy.

Friday, August 24, 2012

1A DISTRICT III DIVISION I: GREENLEAF FRIENDS GRIZZLIES 2011 RESULTS 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

L 42-36 L 34-26 L 54-8 L 36-20 L 74-36 L 58-12 W 62-24 L 42-30

2012 SCHEDULE Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19

COUNCIL at Tri-Valley at Harper (Ore.) at Jordan Valley (Ore.) at Union (Ore.) NOTUS at Rimrock IDAHO CITY

Optimism abound for Greenleaf

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

OFFENSE

DEFENSE Depth and experience are key on this side of the ball, as the Grizzlies started two freshmen and one first-time football player last season.

“We’ve got more depth, that’s for sure,” Anders said, adding, “and more speed then we did before.

“I think we’ll have consistently better tacklers then we did before.”

Dewberry, Penrod and Watkins all will be potential run-stoppers, at linebacker and on the line for GFA, as Anders thinks his team will be better in that aspect.

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JAKE SAMS, JR., QB/ DB “He’s probably one of my most physically improved players,” coach Doug Anders said of Sams, who worked hard in the weight room. “If he took on himself from last year he’d be picking himself up and slamming himself on the ground.

DALTON PENROD, SR., WR/RB/LB/CB On a team that battled injuries early in the season, Penrod became the team’s most prolific kick returner, along with the top offensive weapon, and will be a major threat on special teams and offense again.

“He scored most of our points last year,” coach Anders said.

TEAM FACTS

There’s nothing set in stone about what the Grizzlies plan to do when they have the ball, expect score.

Anders says his team racked up more than 300 yards their opening game last season, then threw for 400 yards the next time out.

“I imagine we’ll probably do the same kind of stuff, we’ll try to pass, we’ll try to run,” Anders said. “We just took what they gave us.”

Junior Jake Sams (6-1, 170 pounds) will likely run the offense, but senior Troy Watkins (5-10, 190) also will be under center as well, along with playing running back, and senior Dalton Penrod (6-1, 165) will be a key target for whoever takes the snaps.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Greg Kreller/IPT

Darrell Cereghino, right, Adam Dewberry and the Greenleaf Grizzlies hope that having a deep team translates into wins.

Grizzlies bring depth, experience into 2012 season

By MIKE STETSON

mstetson@idahopress.com

© 2012 Idaho Press-Tribune

It’s already been an upand-down season for the Grizzlies, and the first game doesn’t kick off until this weekend.

Optimistic after plenty of hard offseason work, and returning much of last year’s team, two key players transferred, diminishing some of the shimmer from the upcoming season at Greenleaf Friends Academy.

“It kind of took the wind out of our sails,” second-year coach Doug Anders said of Casey Hanson and Drew Johnson, who transferred to Homedale and Vallivue

Highs, respectively. “… That was kind of discouraging in the offseason.”

But the Grizzlies have shaken Doug Anders off those losses, and with good numbers out — 14 players — and plenty of other talented returners ready to go, GFA looks contend for a state playoff berth.

Experience will be a key, with the return of Troy Watkins and Adam Dewberry from injuries that cost High School Preview

them most of last season, the return of top scoring threat Dalton Penrod, and the return of Anders.

In his second year of 8-man football, he admits he’s learned a lot about the game and a lot about his players, and that players now know him, too.

“Just my year of 8-man experience is going to make us a lot better,” he said.

Of course, it won’t be an easy season for the Grizzlies, playing alongside power Notus, but Anders believes his team has a chance to challenge both Rimrock and Idaho City in league play this season.

TROY WATKINS, SR, RB/OL/QB/DL/LB Injured in the first game of the season, the Grizzlies lost one of their best players.

Coach Anders says he lost a bit of speed and mobility, which means Watkins may be the leader on the line, but he’ll also be a threat to run the ball in the backfield and on defense.

“Probably our best all-around player, I bet he leads us in tackles,” Andres said.

ADAM DEWBERRY, SR., RB/TE/G/LB Dewberry was one of the Grizzlies players that suffered injuries early in 2011, playing two games before getting hurt for the season, Anders said.

“He should have a good year playing running back mostly,” Greenleaf’s coach said.

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High School Preview

Friday, August 24, 2012

1A DISTRICT III DIVISION I: NOTUS PIRATES 2011 RESULTS Aug. 26 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

L 42-32 L 46-16 W 36-22 W 64-14 L 68-20 L 62-22 L 54-8 L 57-12 W 42-30

More poise, more maturity

2012 SCHEDULE Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19

HORSESHOE BEND at Wilder TRI-VALLEY HARPER (ORE.) at Powder Valley (Ore.) at Greenleaf IDAHO CITY at Rimrock

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COACH: Brad Huter, 2nd season, 3-6 LAST YEAR: 3-6, 2-4 1A Division I PLAYOFFS: Did not qualify

OFFENSE

DEFENSE Huter said the defensive unit is a work in progress. The Pirates need to fill a few holes, but he thinks they can be strong under coordinator Tim Dranginis.

Huter noted cornerback Devon Maples and defensive linemen Austin Hutton and Connor Street can help the unit.

Huter says Dranginis will switch the numbering formats, depending upon the opponent.

It really comes down to the defensive line, Huter says: If the Pirates feature players who want to elevate their play, the team will have success.

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BRYAN FRAHM, SR., LB, UTILITY As a safety last year, he intercepted three passes — one going for a touchdown — in the season finale vs.

Greenleaf. Frahm, who enters his third year starting on defense, will use his quarterbackreading skills at linebacker this season. On offense, he might start at quarterback, but will be shifted around by coach Brad Huter.

DEVIN KRASOWSKI, JR., RB/LB Krasowski, who was a regular in the box scores last season, is an instrumental all-around player vital for an 8-man game.

“He’s a great all-around player, I think,” Huter said. “He gives his best effort every game. He thinks football all the time.”

Krasowski is a hard hitter at his linebacker position and is known for his toughness.

TEAM FACTS

Coach Brad Huter won’t unveil the starting quarterback prior to the season, but the unit features athletic players in the likes of Gavin Dolence, Casey Wilbur and Bryan Frahm.

“I think that our offensive line is coming along and improving,” Huter said. “Hopefully we’ll just keep making strides for the season.”

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Greg Kreller/IPT

Notus senior Bryan Frahm hauls in a catch from teammate Casey Wilbur after practice Monday.

Youthful team experienced growing pains in 2011

By BRUCE MASON

bmason@idahopress.com

© 2012 Idaho Press-Tribune

It was a season of hard knocks and lumps. Seven new starters on both sides of the ball had to carry the burden of honoring a 2010 league championship, a sticking point for rival teams that saw a bull’s-eye and struck with a vengeance.

Notus split its opening four games, then lost four straight games in lopsided fashion, averaging 60 points against.

“We were pretty young and did take a lashing quite a bit,” Notus second-year coach Brad Huter said.

“The year Brad before that, Huter we had 10-12 seniors and won league.

“I think some teams wanted to stick it to us, and they did.”

Huter is confident his Pirates, ripe with more poise High School Preview

and maturity, can improve upon last year’s 3-6 output.

Notus produced all-conference players in the likes of second-team player Devin Krasowski, who shined at linebacker and at various positions offensively, and Bryan Frahm, who earned honorable mention accolades.

The Pirates’ success likely hinges on the outputs of the offensive and defensive lines.

“I feel pretty optimistic,” Huter said. “I think we have a lot more quickness than we did last year.”

CASEY WILBUR, SR., QB/WR/RB/DB Huter expects Wilbur’s quickness to be a significant factor this season.

“I’m expecting quite a bit out of him this year,” Huter said. “He plays with a little chip on his shoulder and just goes out and plays hard.”

Wilbur played wide receiver last year, but will see time at quarterback and running back this year, too.

KRIS COOK, SR., WR/DE Huter says Cook blocks well in the running scheme and obtains good hands for his receiver position.

Defensively, Cook is a threat at his linebacker position. He’s also been a little bit more vocal than his usual quiet self.

“I’ve noticed this year he’s kind of come out of his shell a little more,” Huter said.

Friday, August 24, 2012

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Friday, August 24, 2012

1A DISTRICT III DIVISION II: WILDER WILDCATS 2011 RESULTS Sept. 9 Sept. 16 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 7 Oct. 14 Oct. 21 Oct. 28

at Horseshoe Bend at Notus RIMROCK GREENLEAF FRIENDS HORSESHOE BEND at Union (Ore.) at Idaho City CASCADE

L 36-24 L 36-22 L 42-30 W 36-20 L 44-20 W 61-26 W 72-42 W 60-44

2012 SCHEDULE Aug. 31 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19

NOTUS at Horseshoe Bend at Cascade SALMON RIVER TRI-VALLEY at Garden Valley COUNCIL

Wilder ready for a postseason run

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COACH: Kyle DalSoglio, fourth season, 13-10 LAST YEAR: 4-4, 3-3 1A District III Division I PLAYOFFS: Did not qualify

OFFENSE

DEFENSE Wilder loses just one starter on defense, and DalSoglio adds that sophomore Castellanos will add to his team’s depth on that side of the ball, playing defensive back.

“I would think he’s the best DB I have seen,” the Wildcats coach said, “at this level he can lock up anybody.

“That’s going to be our strength, our pass defense.”

The pass defense will be helped by the pressure of Casey Dillon at defensive end, who will also help out with run stopping.

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JESUS ZAVALA, SR., UTL/RB/LB An all-conference center last year, Zavala will play on the line, run the ball, and be a key at linebacker on defense.

“He’s my best lineman, but he’s one of my fastest kids, too,” coach Kyle DalSoglio said of the three-year starter. “With him, he’s the type of kid that leads by example on the field.”

JAIME MIRAMONTES, SR., RB/LB The Wildcats No. 2 rusher ran for 800 yards and 13 touchdowns last season.

“Basically he’s a really explosive player, he’s that guy who’s going to give us a big play when we need one,” DalSoglio said. “… We expect him to run for a lot of yards and score a lot of touchdowns for us this year.”

TEAM FACTS

In 8-man football, the first option almost always is to run the ball, which the Wildcats will look to do with Alfonso Castellanos at quarterback and with Jaime Miramontes at running back. The two combined for more than 1,800 yards on the ground last season.

But coach Kyle DalSoglio hopes that senior Kass Rivera will be able to make the Wildcats more balanced, throwing the ball to Castellanos as a receiver.

“He’s a better thrower, but knowing 8-man you’ve got to run, you’ve got to be very mobile,” DalSoglio said. “We have the personnel this year, we’ve got a lot of skilled guys, a lot of bodies to throw the ball.”

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Adam Eschbach/IPT

Wilder quarterback Alfonso Castellanos passed for more than 1,000 yards and rushed for more than 700 in 2011.

Three-game skid hampered Wildcats’ dream last year

By MIKE STETSON

mstetson@idahopress.com

© 2012 Idaho Press-Tribune

WILDER— Expectations were high in Wilder last year, as an experienced team looked to make a run not only to the playoffs, but deep in the postseason.

Instead, a three-game skid to start the season left Wilder as the first team outside looking in at the postseason.

“I kind of feel like we shot ourself in the foot, we were our own worst enemy last year,” fourth-year Wilder coach Kyle DalSoglio said.

“That’s our biggest concern this year is not allowing that to happen,” he added. “I think to avoid that is to be really, really clean and to execute what we’ve been coached. Try not to get too crazy with what

we do and just block and tackle.”

The Wildcats hope to let playmakers make plays, like sophomore quarterback Kyle DalSoglio Alfonso Castellanos, who accounted for 17 touchdowns and 1,700 yards of offense last year.

He’ll get help from quarterback Kass Rivera and running back Jaime Miramontes (700 yards rushing, 13 TDs).

Defensively, Castellanos will also play a role after sitting out last season on that side of the ball. Senior defensive end Casey Dillon High School Preview

also will be a top defensive stopper for the Wildcats, who have 18 players on the roster this season, and could have a few more join the team when school starts, DalSoglio said.

They all will have high expectations, though, as the Wildcats again have experience, and playing in the 1A Division II classification, will be a conference title contender against the likes of Salmon River, Cascade, Council, TriValley and Horseshoe Bend.

“We’ve got a lot to prove, this league’s going to be competitive, but I tell my kids all the time, if we all show up, and we all are dedicated, we’re going to win, there’s no doubt about it,” DalSoglio said. “So it’s all on us.”

CASEY DILLON, SR., TE/DE An all-conference defensive end, Dillon recorded 11 quarterback sacks.

“He’s just kind of that all-effort guy, he tries harder than any kid I have and he’s got some skills to go along with that,” DalSoglio said.

“Big-time impact guy on defense.”

ALFONSO CASTELLANOS, SO., QB/RB/DB As a freshman, Castellanos was the team leader at quarterback, rushing for 1,000 yards, throwing for 700 yards and accounting for 17

touchdowns.

“He’s that kid that just, you look at him, he looks like a middle school kid (5-foot-7, 160 pounds) but he’s very, very agile and quick,” DalSoglio said. “He’s probably one of the best athletes at our level as far as athleticism. This kid has great feet, great ball skills, and he’s got a head on him, he knows the game.”

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Friday, August 24, 2012