2A • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
The Inter-Tri County League is entering its 11th and final season. Pictured on the cover of the Morning Journal’s 2015 Football Preview are seniors from the 10 area schools in the ITCL. See page 17A for more on the league’s last season.
Morning Journal/Patti Schaeffer
Representing the Red Division are (from left) South Range’s Nathan Daniszewski, United’s Colton Graham, Crestview’s Jordan Murphy, East Palestine’s Trevor Kimmel and Springfield’s Frank Centofanti.
Morning Journal/Patti Schaeffer
Representing the White Division are (from left) Columbiana’s Mitch Davidson, Lisbon’s Jason Thompson, Leetonia’s Jake Henry, Wellsville’s Branzen Grodhaus and Southern Local’s Zack Almy.
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MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 3A
INDEX S ECTION A
S ECTION B
Team Page Columbiana 4 Crestview 8 Crestview D-line 9 East Palestine 12 ITCL schedule 15 ITCL’s last year 17 Leetonia 18 Lisbon 20 2015 standings 25 Sebring 28 Eight-man football 30 South Range 32 Southern Local 34 Springfield Local 36 United 38 Wellsville 42 Western Reserve 44
Special thanks to Dave Antram of Antram Fire Equipment in North Georgetown for the use of fire extinguishers for the cover photo.
Team Page Area seniors 3 Mitch Davidson 4 Oak Glen coach 5 Beaver Local 6 Buckeye 8 schedule 9 East Liverpool 10 Minerva 14 Minerva coach 15 NBC schedule 17 2016 playoffs 19 Oak Glen 22 Salem 24 West Branch 30 Computer ratings 33 Reilly Stadium 35
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COLUMBIANA CLIPPERS
4A • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
Morning Journal/Chris Rambo
Members of the 2016 Columbiana football team are (front, from left) Mitch Davidson, Connor Stacey, Tanner Pearl, Brandon Johnson, Jake Stoy, Tucker Cope, Tim Davin, Matt Fay, Caleb Rupert, Sean Congemi, Keenan Green, Josh Stoy; (second row, from left) trainer Mandy Moreschi, coach Brian Pearl, Zach Philips, Aaron Thistlewaite, Jarrett Nemick, Dustin Bennett, Jared Bryarly, Dejion Hudson, Frank Rupert, Zach Witherow, Shane Moore, Kyle Ferraro, coach Jon Welsh; (third row, from left) head coach Bob Spaite, Jakob Cross, Mike Cobbin, Brandt Virden, Jaden Graham, Thurston Burt, Nathan Carter, Erik Hopfenziz, Wayne Davis, Mat Merlak, Hunter Zentner, Andy Schach, coach Paul Hostetter; (fourth row, from left) assistant John Tollas, Kyle Phillips, Chase Franken, Joe Bable, Steven Anderson, Jack Carney, Cody Miller, Matt Mazei, Steve DeBone; (back, from left) coach Ryan Wolf, Hunter Rosfeld, Tyler Zagotti, Nate Davis, Josh Stilson, Quenton Cross, Joe Hum, Andrew Proya and coach Kris Reash.
Clippers are battle tested in ITCL Classification Division VI , Region 21
Head Coach Basic offensive formation Bob Spaite enters his 23rd season as Multiple formation, spread. head coach with a record of 150-84, four 2015 Record conference titles and 10 state playoff apOffensive outlook 9-2, including the Inter-Tri County pearances. He was also 13-33-4 in five The Clippers return seven starters from League White Division title with a mark seasons at Southern Local. a potent offense that averaged 40.4 points of 4-0. The Clippers advanced to the state per game last season. The centerpiece is playoffs for the first time since 2011. Assistant coaches All-Ohio senior quarterback Mitch They were ranked 12th in the Division VI Kris Reash, co-offensive coordinator, Davidson, already the top passer in state poll. Columbiana’s only regular-sea- quarterbacks, outside linebackers Columbiana County history with 6,127 son loss came to Crestview and then ran Jonathan Welsh, offensive line, defen- career yards. The Clippers also return off eight straight wins. sive line their entire offensive line of tackles Brian Pearl, wide receivers, corner- Keenan Green and Tim Davin; guards backs Caleb Rupert and Sean Congemi and cenRyan Wolf, defensive coordinator, ter Matt Fay. Tanner Pearl returns to take 2016 SCHEDULE halfbacks, safeties on the tailback duties. Paul Hostetter, defensive line, offen“Mitch Davidson is the best quarterAll games start at 7 p.m., sive line back I’ve ever coached,” Spaite said. Aug. 26 at Western Reserve Sept. 2 at Crestview Randy Barker, special teams “Our offensive line should be a strength Sept. 9 East Palestine Chris Canale, offensive line, defensive and our running game should be better.” Sept. 16 Sebring line Columbiana must reload at receiver Sept. 23 at Mineral Ridge after losing first-team All-Ohioan Jake Sept. 30 Southern Returning lettermen Ward as well as Dalton Miller, Dylan Oct. 7 Springfield Eighteen, including seven starters on Davin and Nate Armstrong. Oct. 14 at Lisbon Oct. 21 Wellsville offense and seven starters on defense. “Inexperience at wide receiver will be Oct. 28 at Leetonia our biggest challenge,” Spaite said. “We
also have zero depth anywhere, in particular at quarterback, offensive line and tailback.” Basic defensive formation 50 Angle. Defensive outlook Columbiana allowed an average of 24 points per game The Clippers unveiled a new defensive scheme last season and will look to take another step forward this season with seven returning starters, including five up front. “Defensively we struggled to get off the field on third downs and were plagued by mistakes stemming from a new defensive scheme and a lack of size,” Spaite said. “Having played 11 games with the new alignment, we should see improvement.” Key returnees include special mention All-Ohio defensive end Keenan Green, linebacker Sean Congemi, as well as See CLIPPERS, Page 5A
MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 5A
CLIPPERS, Continued from Page 4A
safeties Tanner Pearl and Connor Stacey. (sophomore). “Our defensive line should be a Returning linebackers strength with five returnees,” Spaite said. Sean Congemi (senior), Frank Rupert “We will have inexperience at linebacker (junior). and corner as well as a lack of depth.” Incoming linebackers Returning offensive backs Kevin Fay (senior), Eric Hopfenzise Mitch Davidson (senior quarterback), (sophomore), B.J. Johnston (senior), Zach Tanner Pearl (tailback). Witherow (junior), Jake Stoy (senior), Josh Stoy (senior). Returning offensive backs Nathan Carter (sophomore tailback), Returning defensive backs Jakob Cross (freshman quarterback). Connor Stacey (senior safety), Tanner Pearl (senior safety). Returning offensive ends None. Incoming defensive backs Mitch Davidson (senior), Jerrett NeIncoming offensive ends Connor Stacey (senior wide receiver), mick (junior), Dustin Bennett (junior), Zack Phillips (junior wide receiver), Jer- Jayden Graham (sophomore), Brandt Virrett Nemick (junior wide receiver), Dustin den (sophomore), Chase Franken (freshBennett (junior), Jayden Graham (sopho- man), Joe Bable (freshman). more), Brandt Virden (sophomore), Joe 2015 Players honored Bable (freshman), Chase Franken (freshMitch Davidson, first-team Division VI man). All-Ohio and Morning Journal All-Area Back of the Year. Returning offensive linemen Jacob Ward (graduated), first-team DiMatt Fay (senior center), Caleb Rupert (senior guard), Sean Congemi (senior vision VI All-Ohio and first-team Allguard), Keenan Green (senior tackle), Area. Keenan Green, special mention DiviTim Davin (senior tackle). sion VI All-Ohio and first-team All-Area. Dalton Miller (graduated), honorable Incoming offensive linemen Kyle Ferraro (junior), Matt Hopfenzise mention All-Area. Tim Davin, honorable mention All(sophomore), Shane Moore (junior), Area. Tucker Cope (senior). Connor Stacey (graduated), honorable mention All-Area. Returning defensive linemen Nate Armstrong (graduated), honorable Keenan Green (senior end), Tim Davin (senior end), Tucker Cope (senior tackle), mention All-Area. Caleb Rupert (senior tackle), James Hum 2015 Leaders (junior nose guard). Rushing — Mitch Davidson, 1,137 yards and 16 touchdowns on 136 carries Incoming defensive linemen Shane Moore (junior), Wayne Davis (8.4); Tanner Pearl, 439 yards and four
Morning Journal/Wayne Maris
Columbiana’s Caleb Rupert runs the ball against Cuyahoga Heights Dalton Skeriec in a 2015 Division VI first-round playoff game at Firestone Stadium.
touchdowns on 63 carries (7.0); Dylan Davin (graduated) 250 yards and three touchdowns on 36 carries (6.9). Passing — Mitch Davidson completed 173 of 253 passes (68 percent) for a Columbiana County-record 2,73 yards and 30 touchdowns with one interception. Receiving — Jake Ward (graduated) 60 catches for 1,156 yards (19.3) and 15 touchdowns, all school records; Dalton Miller (graduated) 51 catches for 734 yards (14.4) and seven touchdowns; Cooper Smith (graduated) 30 catches for
412 yards (13.7) and four touchdowns. Scoring — Mitch Davidson 102 points; Jake Ward (graduated) 94; Tanner Smith (graduated) 42; Diego Villatoro (graduated) 37; Tanner Pearl 30. Tackles — Keenan Green 118; Nate Armstrong (senior) 109; Sean Congemi 103; Connor Stacey 91; Tanner Pearl 69; Zane Adkins 66. Interceptions —Tanner Smith (graduSee CLIPPERS, Page 7A
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6A • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
Columbiana Clippers
Morning Journal/Wayne Maris
Columbiana tailback Tanner Pearl runs around Cuyahoga Heights’ Joey Stefanko in a Division VI playoff opener last season.
1 Brandt Virden...............WR/DB .......5-4.......110.......Fr. 2 Mitch Davidson ............QB/FS ........5-11 .....189.......Sr. 3 Jaden Graham.............WR/DB .......5-10.....148.......Soph. 4 Connor Stacey.............WR/FS .......6-1.......167.......Sr. 5 Jakob Cross.................QB/SS ........6-0.......161.......Fr. 6. Zach Philips ................WR/DB .......5-10.....165.......Jr. 7 Aaron Thistlewaite .......WR/DB .......6-1.......150.......Jr. 8 Jarrett Nemick .............WR/DB .......5-10.....172.......Jr. 9 Mike Cobbin.................RB/LB.........5-4.......156.......Fr. 10 Hunter Zentner ............RB/DB ........5-9.......135.......Fr. 11 Tanner Pearl ................RB/SS ........5-8.......155.......Sr. 12 Brandon Johnston ......WR/DB .......5-9.......140.......Sr. 13 Thurston Burt...............WR/DB .......5-9.......133.......Soph. 14 Andrew Schach............WR/DB .......5-2.......112.......Fr. 15 Kyle Phillips .................WR/OLB.....5-7.......120.......Fr. 16 Chase Franken ............HB/DB ........5-9.......130.......Fr. 17 Dustin Bennett .............HB/DB ........5-10.....156.......Sr. 18 Joe Bable.....................WR/DB .......5-6.......135.......Fr. 19 Steve Anderson ...........RB/LB.........6-0.......205.......Fr. 20 Jack Carney.................WR/LB........5-10.....143.......Fr. 22 Jared Bryarly ...............K.................6-0.......152.......Jr. 23 Nathan Carter ..............RB/MLB......5-8.......155.......Soph. 23 Brice Franken ..............RB/DB ........5-7.......142.......Fr. 24 Dejion Hudson .............WR/DB .......5-8.......148.......Soph. 25 Jake Stoy.....................WR/LB........5-10.....159.......Sr. 27 Cody Miller...................RB/DE ........5-10.....158.......Fr. 28 Ryan Fahs ...................WR/DB .......5-7.......135.......Fr. 42 James Hum .................RB/DT ........5-9.......186.......Jr.
43 Steve DeBone .............WR/DE .......5-8.......137.......Fr. 45 Frank Rupert................RB/LB.........6-0.......176.......Jr. 50 Zach Witherow.............G/OLB ........5-9.......170.......Jr. 51 Dean Elaans ................NG/OG .......5-1.......220.......Sr. 52 Eric Hopfenziz .............T/LB ...........6-1.......181.......Soph. 53 John McKee.................G/NG..........5-9.......165.......Fr. 54 Matt Mazei ...................T/DT ...........6-2.......178.......Fr. 55 Elijah Benton ...............T/DE...........5-10.....186.......Fr. 56 Tucker Cope ................G/DT ..........5-8.......160.......Sr. 60 Tim Davin.....................T.................6-2.......245.......Sr. 62 Matt Fay.......................C/LB ...........5-9.......175.......Sr. 64 Cameron Fortune ........T.................5-8.......210.......Fr. 66 Wayne Davis ...............C/DE ..........5-9.......192.......Soph. 68 Hunter Rosfeld.............G/DT ..........6-0.......230.......Fr. 69 Caleb Rupert ...............G ................6-0.......195.......Sr. 70 Shane Moore ...............G ................5-10.....200.......Jr. 71 Sean Congemi.............G/LB...........5-10.....196.......Sr. 72 Keenan Green .............T/DE...........6-0.......180.......Sr. 73 Tyler Zigotti ..................C/DE ..........5-11 .....320.......Fr. 74 Nate Davis ...................T/DE...........6-2.......210.......Fr. 76 Joe Stilson ...................G/DT ..........5-10.....221.......Fr. 77 Kyle Ferraro.................C/DE ..........5-9.......180.......Jr. 78 Quenton Cross ............O/DE ..........5-11 .....165.......Fr. 79 Joe Hum ......................G/DT ..........5-10.....183.......Fr. 80 Andrew Proya ..............WR/SS .......5-6.......123.......Fr. 84 Josh Stoy.....................WR/LB........5-10.....156.......Sr. 85 Mat Merlak...................RB/DB ........5-9.......142.......Soph.
Columbiana’s Frank Rupert and the Clippers will line up again for the 2016 season as they play at Western Reserve on Aug. 26.
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MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 7A “Mitch Davidson is the best quarterback I’ve ever coached. Our offensive line should be a strength and our running game should be better.”
CLIPPERS, Continued from Page 5A
ated) 2; Cooper Smith The Clippers have a (graduated) 2. stern test from the start as they play Western Reserve, 2016 Outlook Crestview and East PalesWith one of the area’s tine in the first three weeks. best offensive threats in “Our non-league schedDavidson and plenty of ex- ule is challenging to say the perience along both lines, least,” Spaite said. “Coach the Clippers will be look- (Paul) Cusick has estabing to cap the last year of lished the Rebels as one of the Inter-Tri County the top 10 teams in the League with a second state. East Palestine is once straight conference title. again becoming one of the “This should be a very power programs after three interesting year for the seasons and a playoff apClippers,” Spaite said. “We pearance under coach return the school’s career (Tony) Foster. Western Rerecord holder for almost serve is as tough and as every passing category physical as any team we’ve along with the entire offen- ever faced, including all of sive line. Tanner Pearl our past playoff opponents. should be solid at tailback. Coach (Andy) Hake has With this unfortunately completely transformed the being the last year of the culture there.” totally realigned ITCL, we The ITCL White Diviare in uncharted water as sion is filled with familiar far as how everything will teams with new faces. Liswork out.” bon is a playoff team and Columbiana — which Southern, Leetonia and had four turnovers all last Wellsville should all be season — posted a win- vastly improved in their ning record for the 13th second seasons with new time in 16 years. coaches.”
BOB SPAITE, COLUMBIANA HEAD COACH
Morning Journal/Wayne Maris
Columbiana guard Tim Davin returns to lead the way for quarterback Mitch Davidson, already Columbiana County’s career passing leader with 6,127 yards.
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CRESTVIEW REBELS
8A • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
Morning Journal/Chris Rambo
Members of the 2016 Crestview football team are (front, from left) coach Mike Bettura, coach Keith Drewnowski, coach Jess Leon, Hunter Cresanto, Chance Mustake, Tyler Fitzsimmons, Jacob Scheller, Jake Crawford, head coach Paul Cusick, coach Jed Campbell, coach Lowell Bacon; (second row, from left) coach Dom Perry, coach Rich Ferris Jordan Murphy, Jack Davis, Peyton Wolfe, Brandon Chuey, Brandon Sherrill, Kade Meredeth, coach Dan Hill, coach Jakob Leon; (third row, from left) coach Matt Evans, Dylan Baker, Caleb Dew, Dakota Stratton, Jacob Baker, Danny Moore, coach Eric Potts; (fourth row, from left) Landon Talbert, Jeff Feo, Caleb Hill, Andrew Hardenbrook, Jacob Ricketts, Dylan Schaefer; (fifth row, from left) Josh Simmons, Dominic Perry, Gabe Cusick, Steven Barr, Dylan Huff, Daniel Morgan, Andrew Yanssens, Devin Turvey, Jayce Meredith; (sixth row, from left) Chucky Lindsay, Wyatt Woodring, Alex Pecor, Spencer Tatta, James Fitzgerald, Austin Brodigan, Dante Pelino, Justin Collins, Tyler Noday; (back, from left) Cameron Wolfe, Tanner Davis, Hunter Woodring, Levi Stear, Hayden Dattilio, Chase Bandy and Josh Pittman.
Rebels want to go out winners Classification Division V, Region 17
Head Coach Returning lettermen Paul Cusick enters his 18th season as Twenty-three, including four staters on head coach with a record of 141-53 (a offense and five starters on defense. 2015 Record .727 winning percentage) along wtih 10 10-3, including a second-place finish league titles and 13 state playoff appearBasic offensive formation in the Inter-Tri County League Red Divi- ances. He has a career record of 149-75, Spread Zone Read. sion with a 3-1 mark. The Rebels were which includes three seasons at Leetonia. ranked 10th in the Division V state poll. Offensive outlook They were 6-3 against teams with winAssistant coaches The Rebels lost their entire backfield as ning records. The Rebels advanced to the Lowell Bacon, defensive coordinator Zack Hicks, Tyler Stratton and Spencer the regional final for the third time in five Dom Perry, special teams coordinator, DeSalvo ran for 3,710 yards and 54 years, falling to eventual state runner-up offensive line defensive line touchdowns last year. Just like most Canton Central Catholic. Eric Potts, inside linebackers, running years, the Rebels don’t rebuild, they rebacks load. Jess Leon, defensive backs, receivers “Offensively, we will continue to run Dan Hill, linebackers, offensive line the spread, no huddle, but our temp will 2016 SCHEDULE Jed Campbell, defensive ends, re- depend on how quickly we mature,” Cuceivers sick said. “We should have great compeAll games start at 7 p.m., Matt Evans, quarterbacks, defensive tition in camp for starting positions. We Aug. 26 Collinwood backs definitely have a lack of experience on the Sept. 2 Columbiana Rich Ferris, defensive line, offensive offensive side of the ball and need to learn Sept. 9 at Alliance line the system to be competitive.” Sept. 16 Warren JFK Sept. 23 at Garrettsville Garfield Justin Boyd, linebackers, receivers Sept. 30 at United Keith Drewnoski, tight ends, defensive Basic defensive formation Oct. 7 East Palestine ends Multiple 3-4. Oct. 14 at South Range Mike Bettura, offensive line, linebackOct. 21 Springfield ers Defensive outlook Oct. 28 Lisbon Jakob Leon, defensive backs, receivers The strength of the team will be the tal-
ented defensive line, led by Jordan Murphy, a Bowling Green State University recruit. “We have most of our experience returning on the defensive side of the ball,” Cusick said. “Our defense must lead the way until we grow up offensively. “The defense looks to be more aggressive and must make plays for us. We will have a great balance of experience throughout the defensive unit. We must have our defense create turnovers and field position.” Returning offensive backs Brandon Sherrill (senior halfback), Danny Moore (junior running back). Incoming offensive backs Caleb Hill (junior quarterback), Andrew Hardenbrook (junior halfback), Jacob Ricketts (junior halfback), Steven Barr (sophomore quarterback), James Fitzgerald (sophomore quarterback), Devin Turvey (sophomore running back), Andrew Yanssens (sophomore running See REBELS, Page 10A
MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 9A
Crestview’s defensive line holds its ground By CHRIS RAMBO Staff Writer
COLUMBIANA — While the Crestview offense may need some time to gel thanks to inexperience at the skill positions, there will be no easing into things for the Rebels’ physical, athletic and experienced defensive line. With three returning starters boasting a combined seven years of experience, including one of the area’s best players in Jordan Murphy, Crestview’s front wall figures to be a big strength as the Rebels embark on their final season in the Inter-Tri County League. “We’ll come out and hit you,” junior defensive tackle Landon Talbert said. “None of us are afraid of anybody who is going to line up across from us. No one is going to be more physical than us.” Murphy, a three-year starter at defensive end, headlines the group. The senior racked up 72 tackles and led the team with 10 sacks in 2015. Over the last couple of seasons he
Morning Journal/Chris Rambo
Crestview’s football team will be led by an experienced defensive line that includes Jordan Murphy (20), Kade Meredith (64), Jack Davis (70), Landon Talbert (76) and Wyatt Woodring (72).
has received plenty of interest from Division I colleges and delivered a verbal commitment to Bowling Green State University on Aug. 6. Senior Jack Davis, another three-year starter, lines up next to Murphy and was a valuable piece of last seasons team, contributing 41 tackles and two sacks. Talbert started at tackle
for the first time as a sophomore last season and came into his own with 56 tackles and three sacks. Competing to fill the other defensive end position will be senior Kade Meredith (who subbed in last season) and sophomore Wyatt Woodring. “One thing that I really like about this group is that See LINE, Page 49A
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10A • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
REBELS, Continued from Page 8A
back), Chase Bandy (freshman running back-quarterback), Tanner Davis (freshman running back), Hunter Woodring (freshman halfback). Returning offensive ends Tyler Fizsimmons (senior flanker), Jordan Murphy (senior tight end), Dakota Stratton (junior tight end). Incoming offensive ends Brandon Chuey (senior flanker), Hunter Cresanto (senior split end), Chance Mustake (senior tight end), Peyton Wolfe (senior split end), Jacob Baker (senior split end), Caleb Dew (junior split end), Jeff Feo (junior split end), Austin Brodigan (sophomore split end), Gabe Cusick (sophomore split end), Dylan Huff (sophomore split end), Justin Collins (sophomore tight end), Spencer Tatta (sophomore split end), Jayce Meredith (sophomore flanker), Daniel Morgan (sophomore tight end), Hayden Dattilio (freshman split end), Josh Pittman (freshman flanker), Cameron Wolfe (freshman flanker). Returning offensive linemen Jake Crawford (senior guard), Jacob Scheller (senior tackle), Dominic Perry (sophomore guard), Jake Davis (senior guard), Kade Meredith (senior guard). Incoming offensive linemen Dylan Baker (junior guard), Dylan Schaefer (junior tackler), Landon Talbert (junior guard), Chucky Lindsay (sophomore center), Tyler Noday (sophomore
center), Alex Pecor (sophomore tackle), Davis (freshman inside), Hunter Dante Pelino (sophomore guard), Wyatt Woodring (freshman outside). Woodring (sophomore tackle), Josh Simmons (sophomore center), Levi Stear Returning defensive backs (freshman tackle). Tyler Fitzsimmons (senior cornerback), Danny Moore (junior free safety). Returning defensive linemen Jordan Murphy (senior end), Jack Incoming defensive backs Davis (senior tackle), Landon Talbert (juBrandon Chuey (senior cornerback-free nior tackle), Kade Meredith (senior end), safety), Peyton Wolfe (senior cornerbackBrandon Sherrill (senior end), Jacob free safety), Caleb Dew (junior cornerScheller (senior tackle), Landon Talbert back), Jeff Feo (junior cornerback), (junior tackle), Dominic Perry (sopho- Steven Barr (sophomore free safety), more tackle). Austin Brodigan (sophomore cornerback), Gabe Cusick (sophomore cornerIncoming defensive linemen back), James Fitzgerald (sophomore free Hunter Cresanto (senior end), Dylan safety), Dylan Huff (sophomore cornerBaker (junior tackle), Dylan Schaefer (ju- back), Jayce Meredith (sophomore free nior end), Justin Collins (sophomore end), safety), Spencer Tatta (sophomore corTyler Noday (sophomore tackle), Alex nerback), Hayden Dattilio (freshman corPecor (sophomore tackle), Dante Pelino nerback), Josh Pittman (freshman (sophomore end), Josh Simmons (sopho- cornerback), Cameron Wolfe (freshman more tackle), Wyatt Woodring (sopho- cornerback). more end), Levi Stear (freshman end). 2015 Players honored Returning linebackers Zack Hicks (graduated), first-team DiJake Crawford (junior inside). vision V All-Ohio and first-team AllArea. Incoming linebackers Jarred Jones (graduated), Morning Chance Mustake (senior inside), Jacob Journal All-Area Lineman of the Year Baker (junior outside), Jacob Ricketts (ju- and special mention Division V All-Ohio. nior outside), Dakota Stratton (junior inJordan Murphy, special mention Diviside), Andrew Hardenbrook (junior sion V All-Ohio and first-team All-Area. outside), Chucky Lindsay (sophomore inJacob Scheller, honorable mention Allside), Daniel Morgan (sophomore inside), Area. Andrew Yanssens (sophomore outside), Spencer DeSalvo (graduated), honorDevin Turvey (sophomore outside), able mention All-Area. Chase Bandy (freshman inside), Tanner Mason Crawford (graduated), honor-
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able mention All-Area. Tyler Stratton (graduated), honorable mention All-Area. 2015 Leaders Rushing — Zack Hicks (graduated) an area-high 1,965 yards and a schoolrecord 34 touchdowns on 277 carries (7.1); Tyler Stratton (graduated) 891 yards and 11 touchdowns on 122 carries (7.3); Spencer DeSalvo (graduated) 854 yards and nine touchdowns on 163 carries (5.2); Caleb Hill, 106 yards and one touchdown on 12 carries (8.8). Passing — Spencer DeSalvo (graduated) completed 69 of 139 passes (49.6 percent) for 1,003 yards and 12 touchdowns with four interceptions; Caleb Hill, completed 7 of 17 passes for 87 yards and one touchdown. Receiving — Tyler Stratton (graduated) 23 catches for 283 yards (16.6) and four touchdowns; Tyler Fitzsimmons, 19 catches for 257 yards (13.5) and two touchdowns; Zack Hicks (graduated) 13 catches for 154 yards (11.8) and three touchdowns. Scoring — Zack Hicks (graduated) an area-high 230 points; Tyler Stratton (graduated) 90; Josh Batchelor (graduated) 59; Spencer DeSalvo (graduated) 58. Tackles — Gino Collins (graduated) 109, Mason Crawford (graduated) 105, Brandon Sherrill 85, Danny Moore 85, Jordan Murphy 72. See REBELS, Page 11A
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MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 11A “We have most of our experience returning on the defensive side of the ball. Our defense must lead the way until we grow up offensively.” PAUL CUSICK, CRESTVIEW HEAD COACH
REBELS, Continued from Page 10A
Interceptions — Jared missed the playoffs one Hyden (graduated) 2; Zack time (2007). Hicks (graduated) 2. Crestview has 79 wins over the last eight seasons 2016 Outlook and has won at least seven Crestview wants one last games for 12 straight seaInter-Tri County League sons. title in the last season of the The Rebels will have a league. That would be a good chance to extend all good bet as Crestview has of those streaks. won 36 of its last 40 They have won nine league games. straight home games headThe Rebels have hosted ing into the season opener a state playoff eight straight years, winning at against Collinwood on least one playoff game Aug. 26. Then comes one of the each of the last five seamost-anticipated games sons. Since 2004, the Rebels games of the season on have an an area-high 12 Sept 2 when Columbiana playoff victories and only travels to Crestview.
GOOD LUCK!
Crestview Rebels
2 James Fitzgerald .........QB/FS ........5-10.....130.......Soph. 3 Hunter Woodring .........HB/LB.........5-11 .....170.......Fr. 5 Brandon Chuey............HB/DB ........5-7.......155.......Sr. 6 Devin Turvey................RB/DB ........5-9.......187.......Soph. 7 Gabe Cusick ................SE/DB ........5-8.......139.......Soph. 8 Tyler Fitzsimmons........FL/DB.........5-11 .....168.......Sr. 9 Dylan Huff....................SE/DB ........6-0.......165.......Soph. 10 Spencer Tatta ..............SE/DB ........5-5.......110.......Soph. 11 Caleb Hill .....................QB/DB........6-0.......166.......Jr. 12 Daniel Morgan .............RB/LB.........5-9.......187.......Soph. 13 Tanner Davis................RB/LB.........5-6.......130.......Fr. 14 Andrew Hardenbrook...HB/LB.........5-10.....135.......Jr. 15 Steven Barr..................QB/FS ........5-10.....166.......Soph. 16 Hayden Dattilio ............SE/DB ........5-6.......110.......Fr. 17 Josh Pittman................FL/DB.........5-5.......100.......Fr. 18 Austin Brodigan ...........SE/DB ........5-8.......142.......Soph. 19 Chase Bandy ...............QB/LB ........5-7.......141.......Fr. 20 Jordan Murphy.............TE/DE ........6-4.......240.......Sr. 21 Peyton Wolfe ...............SE/DB ........6-0.......175.......Sr. 22 Caleb Dew ...................FL/DB.........6-0.......142.......Jr. 23 Jacob Baker.................SE/LB.........5-10.....160.......Jr. 24 Jeff Feo........................FL/DB.........5-8.......148.......Jr. 25 Danny Moore ...............RB/FS ........5-7.......148.......Jr. 26 Andrew Janssens ........RB/LB.........5-10.....183.......Soph.
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27Brandon Sherrill............HB/DE ........5-10.....195.......Sr. 30 Dakota Stratton............TE/LB .........5-11 .....194.......Jr. 31 Chance Mustake..........TE/LB .........6-0.......208.......Sr. 34 Cameron Wolfe............FL/DB.........4-9.......92.........Fr. 36 Jacob Ricketts .............FL/DB.........5-7.......165.......Jr. 41 Justin Collins ...............TE/DE ........6-0.......177.......Soph. 50 Levi Stear ....................T/DE...........6-0.......171.......Fr. 52 Dante Pelino ................G/DE ..........5-11 .....187.......Soph. 53 Dylan Schaefer ............T/DE...........5-10.....156.......Jr. 54 Jake Crawford .............G/LB...........6-0.......201.......Sr. 61 Dylan Baker .................G/DT ..........5-10.....240.......Jr. 63 Josh Simmons .............C/DT...........5-11 .....233.......Soph. 64 Kade Meredith .............G/DE ..........6-1.......201.......Sr. 68 Chucky Lindsay ...........C/LB ...........5-7.......171.......Soph. 70 Jack Davis ...................G/DT ..........5-10.....237.......Sr. 71 Jacob Scheller .............T/DT ...........6-6.......295.......Sr. 72 Wyatt Woodring ...........T/DE...........5-10.....215.......Soph. 74 Dominic Perry ..............G/DT ..........6-1.......256.......Soph. 75 Alex Pecor ...................T/DT ...........6-1.......224.......Soph. 76 Landon Talbert.............T/DT ...........5-10.....212.......Jr. 79 Tyler Noday .................C/DT...........5-8.......194.......Soph. 81 Hunter Cresanto ..........TE/DE ........6-0.......168.......Sr. 84 Jayce Meredith ............FL/FS .........5-9.......141.......Soph.
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EAST PALESTINE BULLDOGS
12A • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
Morning Journal/Joe Catullo
Members of the 2016 East Palestine football team are (front, from left) ball boy Wade Foster, head coach Tony Foster, Shane Hammer, JR Davis, Clayton Gingher, Tanner Cope, David Baker, Tyler Kaufman, Marshall Huddleston, Zach Townsend, coach Jim Young, ball boy Owen Jurjavcic; (second row, from left) coach Zach Sherry, coach Travis Foster, Noah Brown, Ryan Nahar, Adam Klein, Trevor Kimmel, Alex Guy, Elijah Weaver, Vincent Delaroza, Cameron Wischerman, Mike Frazier, coach John Jurjavcic, coach Will Franklin; (third row, from left) Erik Noel, Blaize Reynolds, Brock Cheurco, Dylan Foster, Zack Strickland, David Lee Jr., Robbie Hill, Parker Sherry, Jon Thiry; (back, from left) Jeffrey Rhodes, John McLaughlin, Joey Monteleone, Clayton Murray, Branden Kemp, Dominic Posey, Abel Figley, Nathan Dettmer and Cameron Walker.
See what Bulldogs do for encore Classification Division V, Region 17
mark. It was the Bulldogs’ second league Defensive outlook Returning lettermen title since 1975 and second winning seaEast Palestine enjoyed a championship Thirteen, including five starters on ofson and second playoff berth in 15 years. fense and five starters on defense. season thanks to the defense, which gave 2015 Record up an average of 21.4 points a game in 7-4, including the Inter-Tri County Head Coach Basic offensive formation the regular season. In the previous five League Red Division title with a 4-0 Tony Foster enters his fourth season as Spread. years, they had allowed an averaged more head coach with an 11-20 record. He than 32 points a game each season. Offensive outlook served the previous three seasons at South “We are looking to continue the imThe Bulldogs will miss the speed of Range as a varsity assistant and head provements made to last year’s defense, 2016 SCHEDULE coach of the freshman team. He was an All-Ohio running back Josh Pickett, but which reduced points given up per game assistant at Hilliard Darby from 1999- return dual-threat quarterback Parker by 20 points,” Foster said. All games start at 7 p.m., Aug. 26 Salem 2005. Sherry (who had 2,210 yards of offense Sept. 2 at Wellsville Returning offensive backs and accounted for 26 touchdowns as a Sept. 9 at Columbiana freshman). Assistant coaches Parker Sherry (sophomore quarterSept. 16 Lisbon Will Franklin, offensive coordinator “We will have a more blanced attack back), JR Davis (senior running back), Sept. 23 at Sebring Jim Young, defensive coordinator than the last couple of years,” Foster said. Clayton Gingher (senior running back). Sept. 30 Leetonia John Jurjavcic Incoming offensive backs Oct. 7 at Crestview Oct. 14 at Springfield Basic defensive formation Zach Sherry Dominic Posey (sophomore running Oct. 21 United 4-4. Travis Foster Oct. 28 South Range See BULLDOGS, Page 13A
MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 13A
BULLDOGS, Continued from Page 12A
back), Marshall Huddleston (senior run- Posey (sophomore). ning back). Returning offensive ends Returning defensive backs Branden Kemp (junior wide receiver), Branden Kemp (junior), Parker Sherry Alex Guy (senior wide receiver). (sophomore). Incoming offensive ends Incoming defensive backs Zach Townsend (senior wide receiver), Zach Townsend (senior), Joey MonJoey Monteleone (junior wide receiver). teleone (junior), Zack Strickland (junior). Returning offensive linemen 2015 Players honored Jeffrey Rhodes (junior), Trevor KimJosh Pickett (graduated), third-team Dimel (senior), Adam Klein (senior). vision V All-Ohio and first-team AllArea. Incoming offensive linemen Aaron Proakis (graduated), special Shane Hamner (senior), Clayton Mur- mention Division V All-Ohio and firstray (junior), Tanner Cope (senior), John team All-Area. McLaughlin (junior), Erik Noel (junior). Trevor Kimmel, special mention Division V All-Ohio and first-team All-Area. Returning defensive linemen Jarrod Figley (graduated), honorable Clayton Gingher (senior tackle), Alex mention All-Area. Guy (senior end), Adam Klein (senior Parker Sherry, honorable mention Alltackle). Area. Grant Wagner (graduated), honorable Incoming defensive linemen mention All-Area. Clayton Murray (junior), Erik Noel (juRyan Ross (graduated), honorable mennior), Tanner Cope (senior), Elijah tion All-Area. Weaver (senior). 2015 Leaders Returning linebackers Rushing — Josh Pickett (graduated) Vincent Delaroza (junior), Trevor Kim- 1,288 yards and 19 touchdowns on 156 mel (senior), JR Davis (senior). carries (8.3): Parker Sherry, 890 yards and 11 touchdowns on 128 carries (7.5). Incoming linebackers See BULLDGOGS, Page 14A Marshall Huddleston (senior), Dominic
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East Palestine quarterback Parker Sherry had 2,210 yards of offense and accounted for 26 touchdowns as a freshman last season.
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14A • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
East Palestine Bulldogs
3 Dominic Posey.............RB/LB.........6-1.......175.......Soph. 9 Branden Kemp.............WR/DB .......6-3.......180.......Jr. 10 Parker Sherry ..............QB/DB........5-10.....185.......Soph. 12 JR Davis ......................RB/LB.........5-9.......170.......Sr. 14 Alex Guy ......................WR/DE .......6-1.......205.......Sr. 30 Clayton Gingher...........RB/DT ........5-10.....190.......Sr. 31 Brock Cheurco.............RB/DB ........5-8.......160.......Soph. 32 Cameron Wischerman..QB/DB ........5-8 .......155.......Fr. 33 Mike Frazier.................RB/LB.........5-9.......160.......Soph. 34 Marshall Huddleston....RB/LB.........6-0.......185.......Sr. 35 Robbie Hill ...................RB/LB.........6-0.......170.......Jr. 36 David Baker .................WR/DB .......5-10.....150.......Sr. 39 Zack Strickland ............WR/DB .......6-3.......175.......Jr. 40 Nick Garvin .................. K................5-11 .....180.......Jr. 46 David Lee Jr.................WR/LB........5-11 .....175.......Soph. 49 Daniel Delick................RB/LB.........5-8.......150.......Fr. 52 Trevor Kimmel .............OL/LB.........6-1.......210.......Sr. 53 Dylan Foster ................OL/DL.........6-1.......155.......Fr. 54 Vincent Delaroza .........OL/LB.........5-10.....180.......Jr. 55 Noah Brown.................OL/LB.........5-8.......215.......Soph.
56 Cameron Walker..........OL/DL.........6-0.......270.......Soph. 58 Blaize Reynolds...........OL/DL.........5-10.....240.......Soph. 59 Tanner Cope ................OL/DL.........5-10.....225.......Sr. 60 Adam Klein ..................OL/DL.........6-4.......280.......Sr. 62 Nathan Dettmer ...........OL/DL.........6-0.......180.......Soph. 63 Boone Feezle .............OL/DL.........5-9.......275.......Soph. 65 Clayton Murray ............OL/DL.........6-5.......235.......Jr. 66 Erik Noel ......................OL/DL.........6-0.......220.......Jr. 67 Shane Hamner ............OL/DL.........5-11 .....250.......Sr. 68 Jeffrey Rhodes ............OL/DL.........6-1.......340.......Jr. 70 Abel Figley ...................OL/DL.........6-1.......265.......Soph. 72 Elijah Weaver ..............OL/DL.........6-2.......320.......Sr. 76 John McLaughlin .........OL/DL.........6-4.......330.......Jr. 79 Jon Thiry......................OL/DL.........5-10.....180.......Soph. 80 Colton Cook.................WR/DB .......5-11 .....145.......Soph. 81 Dominick Cathers ........WR/DB .......6-0.......160.......Fr. 82 Joey Monteleone .........WR/DB .......6-1.......170.......Jr. 83 Ryan Nahar .................WR/DB .......5-8.......160.......Fr. 84 Tyler Kaufman .............WR/LB........5-8.......185.......Sr. 85 Zach Townsend ...........WR/DB .......6-0.......180.......Sr.
BULLDOGS, Morning Journal/Joe Catullo
Continued from Page 13A
Passing — Parker Sherry, completed 91 of 165 passes (55 percent) for 1,320 yards and 15 touchdowns. Tackles — Trevor Kimmel 66.
Running backs Clayton Gingher (above) and Dominic Posey (right) are expected lead the East Palestine ground attack this season.
MORNING JOURNAL
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2016 Outlook East Palestine enters the season with a six-game regular-season winning streak and a lot of confidence. “The Bulldogs are looking to build off the success of last year,” Foster said. “We have a good group of kids that have worked hard in the offseason and are excited to play football.” The Bulldogs will be tested early with games against Salem, Wellsville and Columbiana to open the season before beginning its bid to defend the league title. “Our numbers are down roughly 10 players from last Make your own touchdown with Rate Lock! season, which makes us pretty thin,” Foster said. “Like many other small school, much of this year’s success depends on staying healthy and how well underclassmen GO gs! respond when called upon to step in and contribute on o Friday nights.” Bulld
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MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 15A
2016 INTER-TRI COUNTY LEAGUE SCHEDULE
WEEK ONE Thursday, August 25 Tusky Central at Lisbon
Friday, August 26 Columbiana at Western Reserve Collinwood at Crestview Salem at East Palestine Leetonia at Fairport Harding Windham at Sebring Southern Local at Bridgeport McDonald at South Range Brookfield at Springfield United at Malvern Toronto at Wellsville Pymatuning Valley at Mineral Ridge Jackson-Milton at Southington Saturday, August 27 Valley Christian at Lowellville ——— WEEK TWO Friday, September 2 Columbiana at Crestview East Palestine at Wellsville Mathews at Leetonia Lisbon at Mineral Ridge Salem at United Sebring at Southington Southern at Conotton Valley Western Reserve at South Range Springfield at McDon-
Morning Journal/Wayne Maris
East Palestine’s Jeffrey Rhodes (facing) lines up against Columbiana’s Caleb Rupert last season.
ald Newton Falls at Jackson-Milton Lowellville at Windham ——— WEEK THREE Friday, September 9 East Palestine at Columbiana Crestview at Alliance Southington at Leetonia United at Lisbon Toronto at Sebring
Malvern at Southern South Range at Akron Manchester Cuyahoga Heights at Springfield Wellsville at Lowellville Mineral Ridge at Newton Falls Jackson-Milton at Windham McDonald at Sullivan Black River
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Saturday, September 10 Western Reserve at Steubenville Catholic Central ——— WEEK FOUR Friday, September 16 Sebring at Columbiana Warren JFK at Crestview Lisbon at East Palestine Jackson-Milton at Leetonia Southern at United Mineral Ridge at South Range Western Reserve at Springfield McDonald at Wellsville St. John Central at Lowellville ——— WEEK FIVE Friday, September 23 Columbiana at Mineral Ridge Crestview at Garrettsville Garfield East Palestine at Sebring Leetonia at Lowellville South Range at Lisbon Springfield at Southern United at McDonald Wellsville at Western Reserve Jackson-Milton at Newbury ———
WEEK SIX Friday, September 30 Southern at Columbiana Crestview at United Leetonia at East Palestine Lisbon at Wellsville Mineral Ridge at Sebring South Range at Springfield Western Reserve at Lowellville Jackson-Milton at McDonald ——— WEEK SEVEN Friday, October 7 Springfield at Columbiana East Palestine at Crestview Leetonia at Wellsville Lisbon at Southern Sebring at Jackson-Milton United at South Range Lowellville at Mineral Ridge McDonald at Western Reserve ——— WEEK EIGHT Friday, October 14 Columbiana at Lisbon Crestview at South Range East Palestine at Springfield
Southern at Leetonia Sebring at Lowellville Wellsville at United Mineral Ridge at McDonald Jackson-Milton at Western Reserve ——— WEEK NINE Friday, October 21 Wellsville at Columbiana Springfield at Crestview United at East Palestine Leetonia at Lisbon McDonald at Sebring Clay-Battelle at Southern South Range at Indian Creek Western Reserve at Mineral Ridge Lowellville at JacksonMilton ——— WEEK TEN Friday, October 28 Columbiana at Leetonia Lisbon at Crestview South Range at East Palestine Western Reserve at Sebring Wellsville at Southern Springfield at United Mineral Ridge at Jackson-Milton Lowellville at McDonald
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16A • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
Bulldogs in action
Morning Journal/Wayne Maris
East Palestine receiver Branden Kemp (9) heads upfield against Columbiana’s Tucker Cope last season.
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East Palestine’s Trevor Kimmel catches Sandy Valley’s Nelson Mozden during Division V first-round playoff action last season.
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MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 17A
Morning Journal/Patti Schaeffer
The new Eastern Ohio Athletic Conference will begin play in the fall of 2017 with the seven smallest schools in Columbiana County plus Toronto. The Columbiana County schools are represented by (from left) Southern Local’s Zack Almy, Leetonia’s Jake Henry, Wellsville’s Branzen Grodhaus, Columbiana’s Mitch Davidson, Lisbon’s Jason Thompson, United’s Colton Graham and East Palestine’s Trevor Kimmel.
ITCL kicks off its final season By RON FIRTH Sports Editor
The Inter-Tri County League is the only conference the current high school football players have known. The 16-team league is entering its 11th and final season this fall. “I can’t wait to play one last year in the ITCL,” Crestview senior lineman Jordan Murphy said. “It’s very special. The coach tries to reassure a lot of the younger guys because for the seniors, not that it does-
n’t bother us, but it doesn’t affect us.” “I have mixed feelings about it,” East Palestine senior linebacker Trevor Kimmel said. “It’s just weird how they are splitting it up. It’s not going to be how it used to be with all the rivals. It’s going to be different.” The league split from two divisions to three last season. League officials went from looking last fall to expanding to 21 teams to disbanding a few months later.
“I think it would be real cool to win the ITCL the last year. We just want to win and show everybody.” NATHAN DANISZEWSKI, SOUTH RANGE SENIOR
Seven Columbiana County schools (Columbiana, Lisbon, East Palestine, Leetonia, Southern Local, United and Wellsville) signed a letter Feb. 29 to leave the league after the 2016-17 school year.
“It’s disappointing,” Columbiana senior quarterback Mitch Davidson said. “You’re not going to be able to play all the same schools in the Inter-Tri County League. We’re not going to be playing Crestview next year. That
is a big downfall for Columbiana and Crestview. That’s a good rivalry.” Those seven smaller Columbiana County schools and newcomer Toronto will compete in the new Eastern Ohio Athletic Conference next season. Seven other ITCL schools (Jackson-Milton, Lowellville, McDonald, Mineral Ridge, Sebring, Springfield and Western Reserve) will join Waterloo in the new Mahoning
Valley Athletic Conference. That left the ITCL’s two biggest schools, Crestview and South Range, out on their own — and not by their choice. “I think it would be real cool to win the ITCL the last year,” South Range senior defensive end Nathan Daniszewski said. “We just want to win and show everybody.” South Range has been accepted into the new EastSee ITCL, Page 41A
LEETONIA BEARS
18A • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
Morning Journal/Chris Rambo
Members of the 2016 Leetonia football team are (front from left) Tyler Burlingame, Douglas Rhodes, David Gonzalez, Adam Barkley, Derek Bell, Brandon Roessler, Tanner Barr, Austin Keats, Danny McCool, Austin Farkas, Michael Buffone, Devon Champney, Jakob Henry; (second row, from left) Johnathon Cress, Brock Simpson, Quinton Craik, Eli Duke, Alex Waterbeck, Tyler Hephner, ColeTin Barcey, Derrick Grossen, Logan Olinik, Michael Gamble, Dustin Deffenbaugh; (third row, from left) manager Brett Weikart, Colin Evans, Marcus Marshell, Connor Hicks, Cody Hostetter, Isaac Thompson, Darryk Marrow; Cody Sanders, Roman Ferry; (back, from left) coach Joe Fagnano, head coach Hadi Hadi, coach Joe Simon, coach Anthony Danko, coach Fred Bruderly and coach Scott Husk.
Bears have one last chance in ITCL Classification Division VII, Region, 25
2015 Record 1-9, including an 0-4 mark in the InterTri County League White Division. It was the fewest wins for Leetonia since going 1-9 in 1997. The Bears have lost 20 straight league games, 12 straight road games and 25 of their last 27 games overall.
2016 SCHEDULE
All games start at 7 p.m., unless noted Aug. 26at Fairport Harding, 6 p.m. Sept. 2 Mathews Sept. 9 Southington Sept. 16 Jackson-Milton Sept. 23 at Lowellville Sept. 30 at East Palestine Oct. 7 at Wellsville Oct. 14 Southern Oct. 21 at Lisbon Oct. 28 Columbiana
Incoming offensive backs ing offense last season, averaging 7.9 CoalTin Barcey (junior running back), points a game. “We look to be more consistent and ef- Michael Gamble (junior running back), ficient on the offensive side of the ball,” Cody Sanders (freshman running back), Hadi said. Dayyrk Marrow (sophomore wide receiver). Basic defensive formation 4-4 Returning offensive ends Devon Champney (senior wide reDefensive outlook ceiver), Johnathan Cress (sophomore Assistant coaches “We look to be more aggressive in our wide receiver), Tyler Hephner (junior Scott Husk attack while eliminating the big play with wide receiver), Alex Waterbeck (sophoAnthony Danko masked coverages,” Hadi said. “We will more wide receiver). Joe Simon look to create more turnovers and defend with more discipline.” Fred Bruderly Incoming offensive ends Joe Fagnano David Gonzalez (senior wide receiver), Returning offensive backs Derek Grossen (junior wide receiver), Danny McCool (senior quarterback), Marcus Marshell (freshman wide reReturning lettermen Thirteen, including five starters on of- Tanner Barr (senior running back), ceiver), Cody Hostetter (freshman wide Roman Ferry (sophomore running back), receiver). fense and eight starters on defense. Brock Simpson (sophomore quarterback), Michael Buffone (senior running back), Basic offensive formation Returning offensive linemen Dustin Deffenbaugh (junior running Multiple. Jake Henry (senior), Derek Bell (seback), Brandon Roessler (senior running nior), Adam Barkley (senior), Tyler back). Offensive outlook See BEARS, Page 19A The Bears had the area’s lowest-scorHead Coach Hadi Hadi enters his second season as a head coach. He served three seasons as offensive coordinator at Youngstown Wilson and three seasons as an assistant at Georgia State University. He has been Liberty’s head wrestling coach for five seasons after being an assistant at Boardman, Hubbard and Austintown Fitch.
MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 19A
Leetonia Bears
2 Roman Ferry................RB/DB ........Soph. 3 Douglas Rhodes ..........K.................Sr. 4 Brock Simpson ............QB/DB........Soph. 9 Cody Hostetter.............WR/DB .......Fr. 10 David Gonzalez ...........WR/LB........Fr. 11 Darryk Marrow .............WR/DB .......Soph. 12 Derrick Grossen...........WR/DB .......Jr. 13 Alex Waterbeck............WR/DB .......Soph. 18 ColeTin Barcey ............RB/LB.........Jr. 20 Danny McCool .............QB/DB........Sr. 21 Devin Champney .........WR/LB........Sr. 22 Tanner Barr..................RB/LB.........Sr. 23 Dustin Deffenbaugh.....RB/LB.........Jr. 28 Marcus Marshell ..........WR/DB .......Fr. 33 Cody Sanders..............RB/LB.........Fr. 42 Michael Buffone...........RB/LB.........Sr.
43 Brandon Roessler........RB/LB.........Sr. 51 Tyler Burlingame..........OL/LB.........Sr. 52 Austin Farkas...............OL/DE ........Sr. 53 Adam Barkley ..............OL/DE ........Sr. 57 Logan Olini ..................OL/DT ........Jr. 61 Derek Bell ....................OL/DT ........Sr. 63 Jake Henry ..................OL/DE ........Sr. 66 Colin Evans .................OL/LB.........Soph. 72 Connor Hicks ...............OL/DT ........Fr. 76 Issac Thompson ..........OL/DT ........Fr. 77 Austin Keats.................OL/DL.........Sr. 80 Michael Gamble...........RB/LB.........Jr. 81 Eli Duke .......................K.................Soph. 85 Johnathan Cress .........WR/DB .......Soph. 86 Tyler Hephner ..............WR/LB........Jr.
BEARS, Continued from Page 18A
Burlingame (senior), Logan Olinik (junior). Incoming offensive linemen Austin Keats (senior), Austin Farkas (senior), Quinton Craik (sophomore), Colin Evans (sophomore), Isaac Thompson (freshman), Connor Hicks (freshman).
“As a team we are much stronger after one year in the weight room as well as more athletic.”
Morning Journal/Patti Schaeffer
Quarterback Danny McCool (above) and running back Roman Ferry (left) will lead the Leetonia offense this season.
HADI HADI, LEETONIA HEAD COACH
(sophomore), Danny McCool (senior), Returning defensive linemen Jake Henry (senior), Derek Bell (se- Johnathan Cress (sophomore). nior), Adam Barkley (senior), Tyler Incoming defensive backs Burlingame (senior), Logan Olenik (juDerrek Grossen (junior), Cody Hostetnior). ter (freshman), Darryk Morrow (sophomore), Marcus Marshall (freshman). Incoming defensive linemen Austin Keats (senior), Austin Farkas 2015 Players honored (senior), Quinton Craik (sophomore), Isaac Stecker, honorable mention AllColin Evans (sophomore), Isaac Thompson (freshman), Connor Hicks (fresh- Area. Connor Mellinger (graduated), honorman). able mention All-Area. Returning linebackers 2016 Outlook Devon Champney (senior), Michael The Bears are searching for their first Buffone (senior), Tyler Burlingame (senior), Tyler Hephner (junior), Tanner Barr win in the Inter-Tri County League since (senior), Dustin Deffenbaugh (junior), 2012. “As a team we are much stronger after Brandon Roessler (senior). one year in the weight room as well as more athletic,” Hadi said. “We will look Incoming linebackers CoalTin Barcey (junior), Michael Gam- to be more consistent on both sides of the ble (junior), Colin Evans (sophomore), ball. We expect to be a better team and to improve on last seasons 1-9 performDavid Gonzalez (senior). ance.” The Bears will try to snap a seven-game Returning defensive backs Roman Ferry (sophomore), Brock losing streak, in which they lost by an avSimpson (sophomore), Alex Waterbeck erage margin of 38 points a game.
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20A • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
Morning Journal/Patti Schaeffer
Members of the 2016 Lisbon football team are (front, from left) Jason Thompson, Colin Sweeney, Devin Johnson, Jake Liberati, Seth Davis, Derek Joy, Marcus Nenichka, Bailey McCullough, David Toot; (second, from left) Jaikep Entrikin, Noah Yenges, Tyler Toot, Dougie Minor, Justin Larkins, Randy Felton, Garrett Cox, Derrick Esarey; (third row, from left) Tristan Jodon, Blake Reynolds, Sean Preston, Cameron Summers, Cade Zimmerman, Michael Stover, Trevor Johnson, Daniel Fox, Logan Bell; (fourth row, from left) Nicholas Mundy, Justin Sweeney, Zane Tray, Bergen Weyand, Seth Stokes, Mason Rance, Seth Donaldson, Justyn Briand and Brice Blackburn; (back, from left) coach Ed Rankin, coach Dave Rankin, coach Rich Joy, coach Steve Tsilimos, head coach Jim Tsilimos, coach Todd Brammer, coach Tom Thayer and coach Charles Bell.
Blue Devils building new identity Classification Division VI, Region 21 2015 Record 9-2, including a 3-1 mark in the InterTri County League White Division. Lisbon made its first state playoff appearance since 2003 and was ranked 13th in the Division VI state poll. The nine wins are
2016 SCHEDULE
All games start at 7 p.m., Aug. 25 Tusky Central Sept. 2 at Mineral Ridge Sept. 9 United Sept. 16 at East Palestine Sept. 23 South Range Sept. 30 at Wellsville Oct. 7 at Southern Oct. 14 Columbiana Oct. 21 Leetonia Oct. 28 at Crestview
the most for Lisbon in a season since Rich Joy, wide receivers, defensive 2003. backs Tom Thayer, running backs, linebackHead Coach ers Jim Tsilimos enters his sixth consecuJoe Wilson, running backs, defensive tive season and 24th overall as Lisbon’s line Todd Brammer, offensive line, linehead coach. He was 110-79 at Lisbon from 1990-2007, including five Tri- backers Mike Butream, assistant County League titles, five state playoff appearances and the 1995 Division V Joey Chuck, wide receivers, linebackstate championship and 22-29 from ers 2011-2015. He has a career head coachSteve Tsilimos, quarterbacks, defensive ing record of 157-133, including three backs years at Wilmington and two years at Benjamin Logan. Returning lettermen Fourteen, including eight starters on ofAssistant coaches fense and nine starters on defense. Ed Rankin, offensive coordinator, offensive line Basic offensive formation Charles Bell, offensive line, linebackFlex I. ers Offensive outlook David Rankin, running backs, lineThe Blue Devils lose skilled four-year backers
starter Josh Liberati at quarterback as well as playmaking tight end Austin Rutecki, but will still be dangerous as they return two-time 1,000-yard rusher Jason Thompson as well as guard Jake Liberati and center Bailey McCullough. “We must be able to run our option plays and also be able to spread teams out,” Tsilimos said. “We need to be able to throw when we want to throw. Basic defensive formation Flex 4-4. Defensive outlook Lisbon has holes to fill at defensive line and linebacker, but returns a wealth of experience in the secondary, where they return seven players with starting experience. “We have to play physical and tackle See BLUE DEVILS, Page 22A
MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 21A
Morning Journal/Patti Schaeffer
Some of the senior leaders for the Lisbon football team are (from left) Bailey McCullough, Seth Davis and Jake Liberati. The Blue Devils open the season Aug. 25 by hosting Tuscarawas Central Catholic.
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22A • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
BLUE DEVILS, Continued from Page 20A
well,” Tsilimos said. “We can’t give up any big plays.” Returning offensive backs Jason Thompson (senior tailback), Dougie Minor (junior tailback), Cam Summers (junior fullback). Incoming offensive backs Colin Sweeney (senior quarterback), Logan Bell (sophomore quarterback), Cade Zimmerman (junior tailback), Justin Sweeney (sophomore tailback). Returning offensive ends David Toot (senior wide receiver), Seth Stokes (junior wide receiver), Seth Davis (senior tight end). Incoming offensive ends Marcus Nenichka (junior), Nick Mundy (sophomore).
Lisbon Blue Devils
2 Nicolas Mundy .............WR/DB .......5-11 .....160.......Fr. 4 Chase McCoy ..............RB/DB ........5-7.......140.......Fr. 5 Logan Bell....................QB/DB........5-10.....155.......Soph. 6 Marcus Nenichka.........WR/LB........6-3.......210.......Sr. 8 Seth Stokes .................WR/DB .......6-1.......180.......Jr. 10 Blake Reynolds............RB/LB.........5-10.....160.......Fr. 11 Derrick Esarey .............WR/DB .......5-8.......145.......Soph. 14 David Toot....................WR/DB .......6-0.......165.......Sr. 19 Michael Stover.............WR/LB........5-10.....155.......Soph. 22 Jaikep Entrikin .............RB/DB ........5-6.......145.......Fr. 23 Dougie Minor ...............RB/DB ........5-9.......175.......Jr. 24 Justin Sweeney ...........RB/LB.........5-9.......160.......Soph. 25 Colin Sweeney.............QB/DB........5-9.......150.......Sr. 33 Jason Thompson .........RB/LB.........5-10.....165.......Sr. 40 Daniel Fox ...................RB/LB.........5-9.......145.......Soph. 41 Cade Zimmerman........RB/DB ........5-9.......145.......Jr. 42 Cameron Summers .....RB/LB.........5-10.....175.......Jr. 44 Tyler Toot .....................RB/LB.........5-9.......165.......Fr.
more), Seth Davis (senior), Marcus Nenichka (junior), Returning offensive linemen Jake Liberati (senior guard), Bailey McCullough (se- Dougie Minor (junior), Justin Sweeney (sophomore). nior center). Returning defensive backs Jason Thompson (senior), Colin Sweeney (senior), Incoming offensive linemen Justin Larkins (junior), Brice Blackburn (sophomore), Seth Davis (senior), Dougie Minor (junior), Seth Stokes Seth Donaldson (sophomore), Devin Johnson, Bergen (junior), David Toot (senior). Weyand (sophomore). Incoming defensive backs Logan Bell (sophomore), Justin Sweeney (sophoReturning defensive linemen more). Jake Liberati (senior), Bailey McCullough (junior). 2015 Players honored Josh Liberati (graduated), first-team Division VI AllIncoming defensive linemen Justin Larkins (junior), Seth Donaldson (sophomore). Ohio and first-team All-Area. Austin Rutecki (graduated), special mention Division VI All-Ohio and first-team All-Area. Returning linebackers Jason Thompson, special mention Division VI AllCam Summers (junior). Ohio and first-team All-Area. Frankie Morrell (graduated), honorable mention AllIncoming linebackers Brice Blackburn (sophomore), Sean Preston (sopho- Area. Jared White (graduated), honorable mention All-Area. Josh Craig (graduated), honorable mention All-Area. Alex Barnes (graduated), honorable mention All-Area.
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52 Sean Preston...............OL/LB.........5-10.....175.......Soph. 53 Noah Yenges ...............OL/DL.........5-6.......200.......Soph. 55 Seth Donaldson ...........OL/DL.........6-2.......210.......Soph. 57 Brice Blackburn ...........OL/DL.........6-0.......185.......Soph. 58 Trevor Johnson............OL/DL.........5-10.....210.......Soph. 60 Zane Tray ....................OL/DL.........6-0.......200.......Fr. 62 Bergen Weyand...........OL/DL.........6-1.......195.......Soph. 63 Justyn Briand...............OL/DL.........6-0.......200.......Fr. 64 Bailey McCullough.......OL/DL.........6-1.......235.......Sr. 66 Jake Liberati ................OL/DL.........6-1.......280.......Sr. 67 Justin Larkins...............OL/DL.........5-9.......205.......Jr. 68 Mason Rance ..............OL/DL.........6-2.......190.......Jr. 71 Tristan Jodon ...............OL/DL.........5-9.......315.......Fr. 75 Devin Johnson.............OL/DL.........5-10.....180.......Sr. 79 Derek Joy ....................OL/DL.........6-4.......270.......Sr. 80 Randy Felton ...............WR/DB .......5-9.......145.......Soph. 82 Garrett Cox ..................WR/LB........5-8.......150.......Soph. 85 Seth Davis ...................WR/LB........6-3.......185.......Sr.
touchdowns on 131 carries (8.9); Danny Shultz (graduated) 445 yards and four touchdowns on 82 carries (5.4); Josh Liberati (graduated) 368 yards and six touchdowns on 75 carries (4.9); Frankie Morrell (graduated) 323 yards and six touchdowns on 57 carries (5.7); Austin Davis (graduated) 162 yards and two touchdowns on 30 carries (5.4). Passing — Josh Liberati (graduated) completed 110 of 184 passes (60 percent) for 1,625 yards and 24 touchdowns with three interceptions. Receiving — Jared White (graduate) 41 catches for 642 yards (15.7) and seven touchdowns; Austin Rutecki (graduated) 26 catches for 333 yards (12.8) and eight touchdowns; Colin Sweeney, 20 catches for 397 yards (19.9) and six touchdowns. Tackles — Josh Liberati (graduated) 113; Frankie Morrell (graduated) 113; Dougie Minor 84; Josh Craig (graduated) 71; Nate Cook (graduated) 67; Austin Rutecki (graduated) 61; Bailey McCullough 61. Interceptions — Seth Stokes 5; Colin Sweeney 2; Cody Freeland (graduated) 2. 2016 Outlook Lisbon was among the favorites for a conference title See BLUE DEVILS, Page 24A
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MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 23A
Morning Journal/Patti Schaeffer
More senior leaders for the Lisbon football team are (from left) lineman Derek Joy, receiver Marcus Nenichka and quarterback Colin Sweeney.
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24A • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 “We have 10 offensive players and nine defensive players back who started at some time last season. The 2016 Blue Devils are as athletic and skilled as last year’s team. A big key will be to stay healthy and develop backups.” JIM TSILIMOS, LISBON HEAD COACH
BLUE DEVILS, Continued from Page 22A
last season, but was narrowly beaten out for the ITCL White Division crown by Columbiana. The Blue Devils lost a good chunk of production from last season’s squad, but there is still plenty of talent left to ensure that the Blue Devils are once again competitive. “Our goal for 2016 is to improve on our 9-2 record from last season and compete for a middle tier title,” Tsilimos said. The Blue Devils, who have won five straight regularseason home games, open the season Aug. 25 by hosting Tusky Valley. “We have 10 offensive players and nine defensive players back who started at some time last season,” Tsilimos said. “The 2016 Blue Devils are as athletic and skilled as last year’s team. A big key will be to stay healthy and develop backups.” The Blue Devils are going for a third straight winning season for the first time since 1999.
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Morning Journal/Patti Schaeffer
Lisbon receiver Dave Toot will be looking to contribute to the Blue Devil attack this season. (Right photo) Lisbon’s Seth Stokes returns to the Blue Devils’ secondary.
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MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 25A
2015 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL ROUNDUP 2015 Area standings
INTER-TRI COUNTY LEAGUE Red Division Team League Overall • East Palestine .........................4-0 7-4 • Crestview.................................3-1 10-3 South Range..............................2-2 6-4 Springfield..................................1-3 4-6 United ........................................0-4 2-8 White Division • Columbiana .............................4-0 9-2 • Lisbon......................................3-1 9-2 Wellsville....................................2-2 5-5 Southern ....................................1-3 2-8 Leetonia.....................................0-4 1-9 Blue Division • Western Reserve.....................5-0 8-3 McDonald ..................................4-1 7-3 • Jackson-Milton ........................3-2 7-4 Mineral Ridge ............................2-3 3-7 Sebring ......................................1-4 1-9 Lowellville ..................................0-5 1-9
NORTHEASTERN BUCKEYE CONFERENCE • Louisville..................................7-0 10-2 • Salem ......................................6-1 10-2 West Branch ..............................5-2 7-3 Marlington..................................4-3 6-4 Carrollton ...................................3-4 5-5 Alliance ......................................2-5 2-8 Canton South.............................1-6 2-8 Minerva......................................0-7 0-10 BUCKEYE 8 ATHLETIC LEAGUE North Division • Indian Creek ............................4-0 7-4 Beaver Local..............................3-1 5-5 East Liverpool............................2-2 3-7 Edison........................................1-3 1-9 Buckeye Local ...........................0-4 0-10 South Division • St. Clairsville............................4-0 902 • Harrison Central .....................3-1 8-3 Martins Ferry .............................1-3 5-5 Union Local................................1-3 4-5 Bellaire.......................................1-3 2-8 OTHERS Oak Glen......................................... • — playoff qualifier
3-6
MORNING JOURNAL
308 Maple St. Lisbon, Ohio 44432 Phone (330) 424-9541
Morning Journal/Patti Schaeffer
Lisbon’s Colin Sweeney (left) and Jason Thompson (right) gain yardage against Brookfield in a 2015 Division VI first-round playoff game at War Memorial Stadium.
2015 Regular Season Team Leaders
SCORING OFFENSE Team Avg. 1. Columbiana ..........................................42.4 2. Crestview..............................................42.3 3. Lisbon...................................................39.8 4. East Palestine ......................................35.0 5. Western Reserve..................................32.1 6. Salem ...................................................30.7 7. Oak Glen ..............................................29.3 8. West Branch.........................................27.2 9. South Range ........................................24.5 10. Springfield ............................................28.1 11. Wellsville...............................................22.7 12. Beaver Local ........................................22.6 13. United ...................................................16.3 14. Southern Local .....................................15.0 15. East Liverpool.......................................13.7 16. Sebring .................................................12.9 17. Minerva.................................................11.4 18. Leetonia..................................................7.9
SCORING DEFENSE Team Avg. 1. South Range ........................................14.0 2. Lisbon...................................................14.4 3. Salem ...................................................14.6 4. Western Reserve..................................16.9 5. Wellsville ..............................................18.8 6. West Branch.........................................19.3 7. East Palestine ......................................21.4 8. Springfield ............................................23.3 9. Columbiana ..........................................23.7 10. Crestview..............................................25.5 11. Beaver Local.........................................27.0 12. East Liverpool.......................................29.3 13. Oak Glen ..............................................31.7 14. Sebring .................................................38.3 15. United ...................................................39.3 16. Leetonia................................................39.6 17. Southern Local .....................................40.6 18. Minerva.................................................41.3
SCORING MARGIN Team Avg. 1. Lisbon.................................................+25.4 2. Columbiana ........................................+18.7 3. Crestview ...........................................+16.8 4. Salem .................................................+16.1 5. Western Reserve................................+15.2 6. East Palestine ....................................+13.6 7. South Range ......................................+10.5 8. West Branch.........................................+7.9 9. Springfield ............................................+4.8 10. Wellsville ..............................................+3.9 11. Oak Glen ...............................................-2.4 12. Beaver Local .........................................-4.4 13. East Liverpool .....................................-15.6 14. United..................................................-23.0 15. Sebring................................................-25.4 16. Southern Local ....................................-25.6 17. Minerva ...............................................-29.9 18. Leetonia ..............................................-31.7
26A • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 27A
SEBRING TROJANS
28A • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
Morning Journal/Chris Rambo
Members of the 2016 Sebring football team are (front, from left) Holden Bennett, Collin Baia, Brandon French, Jake Hunter, Donnavon Seruch, Zane Peterson; (second row, from left) coach Matt Seidel, Jarod Hunter, Zach Thomas, Carson Rouse, David Evanitcka, Josh Hammond, Noah Dennis, Trent Ritchey, Jake Fullerton, coach Chase Good; (back, from left) coach Waid Smith, coach Brandon French, Jason Dickson, Trevor Berlin, Robbie Rouse, Colton Brown, Nate Martin, Tristen Weekly, Dalton Smith, Dante Seruch, Evan Papic, Christian Phillips and head coach Scott Springer.
Numbers improving for Trojans Classification Division VII, Region 25
Head Coach Scott Springer enters his sixth season as head coach with a record of 13-37. He 2015 Record was the defensive coordinator at Sebring 1-9, including a 1-4 mark in the Inter- for two years after being an assistant at Tri County League Blue Division. The Alliance for eight years. Trojans have lost 24 of their last 28 league games. They have 30 wins in the Assistant coaches 23 years since their last winning season Waid Smith, assistant head coach, ofin 1992. fensive line, defensive line. Brandon French, offensive coordinator, quarterbacks, linebackers. Chase Good, offensive line, defensive line. 2016 SCHEDULE Matt Siedel, running backs, linebackAll games start at 7 p.m., ers. Aug. 26 Windham Jamie Reggi, wide receivers, defensive Sept. 2 at Southington backs. Sept. 9 Toronto Sept. 16 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 7 Oct. 14 Oct. 21 Oct. 28
at Columbiana East Palestine Mineral Ridge at Jackson-Milton at Lowellville McDonald Western Reserve
Offensive outlook Depth was a major problem for the Trojans last season, but some new additions to the roster have Springer confident the Trojans can put some points on the board this season. “We have a lot more depth than we did last season,” Springer said. “We had some athletic seniors come out for the team this year and we have some freshman that have potential. This is a very hungry, coachable group. I feel like we have some big-play capability.” 4-3.
Basic defensive formation
ically we have to be in better condition.” Returning offensive backs Jared Hunter (senior fullback), Nate Martin (senior tailback), Colton Brown (senior quarterback), Robbie Rouse (senior quarterback). Incoming offensive backs Trent Ritchey (freshman fullback), Jake Hunter (freshman tailback-wide receiver), Jake Fullerton (sophomore tailback). Returning offensive ends Colton Brown (senior wide receiver), Robbie Rouse (senior wide receiver), Dante Seruch (senior wide receiver), Jake Fullerton (sophomore wide receiver).
Defensive outlook The Trojans frequently wore down late in games last season according to Returning lettermen Incoming offensive ends Fifteen, including nine starters on of- Springer. For this unit to have more sucJason Dixon (senior wide receiver), fense and nine on defense. cess, they must be able to hold up for four Drew Kleinman (senior wide receiver), quarters. Brandon Dare (senior wide receiver). Basic offensive formation “”The biggest thing is we have to tackle See TROJANS, Page 29A Multiple. better this season,” Springer said. “Phys-
MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 29A
Sebring Trojans
2 Jason Dickson .............WR/DB .......5-8.......150.......Sr. 5 Holden Bennett............WR/DB .......5-10.....155.......Jr. 9 Evan Papic ..................WR/LB........5-9.......170.......Sr. 12 Colton Brown ...............QB/DB........6-2.......160.......Sr. 14 Brandon French...........WR/DB .......5-10.....150.......Jr. 18 Zane Peterson .............QB/DB........5-10.....145.......Fr. 22 Collin Baia ...................K/P .............5-9.......150.......Jr. 23 Drew Kleinman ............WR/DB .......6-0.......160.......Sr. 24 Jared Hunter................RB/LB.........6-0.......180.......Sr. 26 Nate Martin ..................RB/LB.........5-7.......155.......Sr. 28 Jake Fullerton ..............WR/DB .......6-0.......160.......Soph. 30 Dante Seruch...............WR/DB .......5-10.....155.......Sr. 31 Trent Ritchie ................RB/LB.........5-10.....150.......Fr.
33 Brandon Dare ..............WR/LB........6-0.......175.......Sr. 52 Donnavon Seruch........OL/DL.........5-9.......170.......Fr. 53 Christian Phillips ..........OL/DL.........5-8.......230.......Sr. 54 Carson Rouse..............OL/DL.........5-11 .....170.......Fr. 55 Tristen Weekly .............OL/DL.........6-3.......270.......Sr. 58 Trevor Berlin ................OL/DL.........5-11 .....170.......Sr. 60 Zach Thomas...............OL/DL.........6-0.......240.......Jr. 70 Josh Hammond ...........OL/DL.........5-9.......275.......Soph. 71 Dalton Smith ................OL/DL.........5-10.....215.......Sr. 77 Noah Dennis................OL/DL.........5-10.....255.......Fr. 80 David Evanitcka...........WR/DB .......5-11 .....150.......Sr. 81 Jake Hunter .................WR/DB .......5-7.......145.......Fr.
TROJANS, Continued from Page 28A
Morning Journal/Chris Rambo
Sebring senior Nate Martin ran for 965 yards last season and 946 yards as a sophomore.
Returning offensive linemen Tristen Weekly (senior tackle), Dalton Smith (senior guard), Zach Thomas (junior tackle), Josh Hammond (sophomore center), Christian Phillips (senior guard). Incoming offensive linemen Noah Dennis (freshman tackle), Carson Rouse (freshman guard-center), Donnavon Seruch (freshman guard).
“We have to stay optimistic. We have a lot of talent coming back with our 15 returning lettermen.” SCOTT SPRINGER, SEBRING HEAD COACH
Incoming defensive backs Jason Dixon (senior safety), Drew Returning defensive linemen Josh Hammond (sophomore nose Kleinman (senior cornerback), Zane guard), Dalton Smith (senior tackle), Peterson (freshman safety), Jake Tristen Weekly (senior end), Zach Hunter (freshman cornerback). Thomas (junior end). 2015 Players honored Nate Martin, honorable mention Incoming defensive linemen Noah Dennis (freshman nose All-Area. guard), Trevor Berlin (senior tackle), 2015 Leaders Brandon Dare (senior end). Rushing — Nate Martin 965 yards, 12 touchdowns. Colton Returning linebackers Nate Martin (senior), Josh Ham- Brown 400 yards. Passing —Colton Brown 820 mond (senior), Colton Brown (seyards. nior).
2016 Outlook Incoming linebackers After their roster size dipped to as Trent Ritchey (freshman), Branlow as 16 players last season, the don Dare (senior), Evan Papic (seTrojans are entering 2016 with renior). newed depth and optimism. “We have to stay optimistic,” Returning defensive backs Springer said. “We have a lot of talJake Fullerton (sophomore cornerback), Robbie Rouse (senior safety), ent coming back with our 15 returning lettermen.” Morning Journal/Chris Rambo Dante Seruch (senior cornerback), With an infusion of freshmen and Brandon French (junior safety). Sebring senior lineman Tristen Weekly returns to some seniors coming out for football lead the Trojans up front. for the first time, the Trojans have
boosted their numbers to 28 as the season nears. “The depth is going to help us tremendously,” Springer said. “Last year, guys would have to stay on the field the whole game, now we are going to be able to rotate some fresh bodies in throughout the game.” The schedule poses some challenges. Sebring, which has lost eight straight road games, faces 2015 state playoff qualifiers Columbiana and East Palestine in ITCL cross-over matchups. The Trojans close with traditional conference heavyweights McDonald and Western Reserve. “As far as the league goes, Western Reserve is going to be good this season, and McDonald is always solid,” Springer said. “We are going to have to come to play every Friday night.”
“GO, TROJANS &WARRIORS”
SEBRING DENTAL 395 N. 15th St. • Sebring, OH
330-938-3384 Dr. Anthony J. Christani, D.D.S., Inc.
30A • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
Eight-man football OHSAA exploring options for smaller schools to maintain teams By CHRIS RAMBO Staff Writer
One year ago, the administration at Elyria Open Door Christian was forced into a decision nobody wanted to make. Four years after fielding its first varsity football team, the school had no choice but to cancel its 2015 season after only 12 players came out for the team. “The players were upset, but unfortunately it was a numbers issue for us,” Open Door athletic administrator Bill Dunston said. “Twelve players is just not a safe number to field an 11-man football team.” Dunston, though, had an alternative idea. One, that could change the way small schools across the state compete if it catches on. This fall, Open Door will be one of three Ohio schools to feature eightman football as a club sport. The Patriots will have 16 players on the squad and will play a full 10 game schedule on Saturday afternoons. “We had a lot of interest, at our school,” Dunston said. “The kids are glad for the opportunity to compete this fall and are very excited to be at the forefront of this. Hopefully the idea catches on and starts to take off among the smaller schools.” Along with Open Door, Dunston said that Fostoria St. Wendelin, Cleveland Lincoln-West, Canton Heritage Christian and
“We are monitoring the situation at Elyria Open Door. What we are doing now is just sitting back seeing what comes of this season. Our hope is that it will start to take off on its own.” BOB GOLDRING, OHSAA ASSOCIATE COMMISSIONER
Toledo Horizon Science Academy (a non-Ohio High School Athletic Association school) initially expressed interest in forming a league and playing each other this fall. Ultimately, only Toledo Horizon and Lincoln-West decided to field teams. The rest of the Patriots schedule will be filled out by schools from Michigan, which has been playing eight-man football since 2010. Open Door has its own field (without lights) and will play five home and five away games. The school is paying for travel to the away games according to Dunston. “We’re going to see how this year goes and go from there,” Dunston said. “In the past year, I’d say we’ve had a dozen schools, I’m not at liberty to say who, approach us to discuss eight-man football. Our hope is that more schools start to come aboard so we don’t have to travel as far.” The OHSAA’s Emerging Sports Committee has taken notice and is currently watching to see if it picks up steam beyond this
season. “We are monitoring the situation at Elyria Open Door,” OHSAA associate commissioner Bob Goldring said. “What we are doing now is just sitting back seeing what comes of this season. Our hope is that it will start to take off on its own.” High School fans in other parts of the country are no strangers to eightman football. It is especially prevalent in sparsely populated states in the Midwest and Northwest. Ohio, though, remains one of 15 states that doesn’t sanction any form of reduced-man football. That could be changing sometime down the line. Several of the state’s smaller schools — particularly at the Division VII level — face an almost yearly struggle with numbers. There are also a handful of schools in the Northwestern and Southeastern parts of the state that do not offer football, but seem intrigued by the idea of eight-man football, according to Goldring. Goldring said that over
the winter the Emerging Sports Committee held a conference call with officials from Michigan, Minnesota (which plays nine-man football), Iowa, Kansas and Nebraska to gauge how those states structure their tournaments and also to get an idea of fan interest and feasibility issues. “It’s important to emphasize that we are still very early in this process,” Goldring said. “We just wanted to get an idea of how its handled in other states. It would be inappropriate at this point to move forward with any definite plans. Besides coming up with enough interested schools, there are many other factors to consider before moving forward.” One thing Goldring knows for sure is that if the OHSAA ever does sanction eight-man football, it would be only for the small schools. “Most states that we talked to set the enrollment maximum around 150 boys, we would look to do something similar,” Goldring said. “We couldn’t have a situation where bigger schools decide to have both eight- and 11man teams.” Goldring also wasn’t sure at this stage what number of interested schools would be acceptable for the OHSAA to offer the sport. According to the bylaws, there must be 150 schools that offer a sport See OHSAA, Page 31A
High school football team participation in the United States State 8-man 6-man Alabama ............................19 ..............8 Alaska ..................................4 ..............8 Arizona ..............................31 ..............0 Arkansas ..............................1 ..............0 California..........................108 ..............0 Colorado ............................40 ............30 Connecticut ..........................0 ..............0 Delaware............................15 ..............0 Florida ................................15 ............32 Georgia ..............................21 ..............0 Hawaii ..................................8 ..............0 Idaho ..................................45 ..............2 Illinois ..................................2 ..............0 Indiana ................................0 ..............0 Iowa ..................................61 ..............0 Kansas ............................110 ..............0 Kentucky ..............................0 ..............0 Louisiana..............................9 ..............0 Maine ..................................0 ..............0 Maryland ..............................0 ..............0 Massachusetts ....................0 ..............0 Michigan ............................52 ..............0 Minnesota ............................0 ..............0 Mississippi..........................21 ..............0 Missouri..............................26 ..............0 Montana ............................35 ............33 Nebraska ..........................113 ............17 Nevada ..............................77 ..............0 New Hampshire ..................0 ..............0 New Jersey ..........................0 ..............0 New Mexico ......................18 ............11 New York..............................0 ..............0 North Carolina....................15 ..............0 North Dakota........................0 ..............0 Ohio ....................................0 ..............0 Oklahoma ..........................88 ..............0 Oregon ..............................41 ..............0 Pennsylvania........................0 ..............0 Rhode Island........................0 ..............0 South Carolina ..................19 ..............0 South Dakota ......................0 ..............0 Tennessee..........................14 ..............0 Texas....................................0 ..........234 Utah ....................................0 ..............0 Vermont................................0 ..............0 Virginia ................................0 ..............0 Washington ........................34 ..............0 West Virginia ........................0 ..............0 Wisconsin ..........................25 ..............0 Wyoming ..............................0 ............13 Washington DC ....................1 ..............0
9-man 11-man ............0............389 ............0..............32 ............0............192 ............0............162 ............0 ........1,045 ............0............215 ............0............146 ............0..............45 ............0............553 ............0............413 ............0..............48 ............0............103 ............0............558 ............0............315 ............0............278 ............0............235 ............0............222 ............0............296 ............0..............84 ............0............187 ............0............324 ............0............637 ..........70............353 ............0............246 ............0............357 ............0..............76 ............0............167 ............0..............74 ............0..............57 ............0............346 ............0............100 ............0............572 ............0............375 ..........46..............98 ............0............710 ............0............201 ............0............196 ............0............584 ............0..............45 ............0............199 ..........79..............68 ............0............349 ............0 ........1,061 ............0............102 ............0..............26 ............0............303 ............0............295 ............0 ............117 ............0............424 ............0..............55 ............0..............12
MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 31A
Some area programs would be open to the idea By CHRIS RAMBO Staff Writer
With the Ohio High School Athletic Assocation’s Emerging Sports Committee beginning to take a look at eight-man football, there are a small handful of area schools that might be a logical fit should it ever be offered. None more than Sebring which, with an enrollment of 63 boys, is the smallest area school to field a football team. Sebring’s numbers are up this season to 28, but the Trojans came dangerously close to not being able field a team late last season after injuries trimmed the roster size to 16. According to Trojans coach Scott Springer, the team was not able to take part in any contact until Friday nights. In order to go 11-on-11 in practice, the Trojans were forced to use garbage cans instead of players to simulate various formations. “I have to give the kids a lot of credit,” Springer said. “Not one of them quit last season. All of the adversity did not discourage them.” Springer has been at Sebring for a total of eight seasons and is well versed in the challenges of trying to field a consistently competitive 11-man team at a school of Sebring’s size. Should eight-man football ever come to pass, he seemed receptive to the idea. “I’d have to see what the guidelines were, how it was structured and how it would draw, but I’ll try anything,” Springer said. “I think you would probably see a lot of resistance at first because change is always difficult, but in the end it would probably benefit a school like us.”
“I think you would probably see a lot of resistance at first because change is always difficult, but in the end it would probably benefit a school like us.” SCOTT SPRINGER, SEBRING HEAD COACH
Springer also wanted to make it clear though, that his players embrace the challenge of competing on Friday nights and were not looking for anybody’s pity. “I would have to consider how it would affect my players,” Springer said. “They would probably be more opposed than anybody to playing eight-man football. They might see it as a slap in the face.” Another potential problem Springer sees is travel. Many of
the schools who have expressed interest in eight-man football are concentrated in Northwestern Ohio. “Obviously we couldn’t travel three hours for every away game,” Springer said. “We would have to find enough schools our size around here to play.” Another area coach in favor of eight-man football is Lisbon’s Jim Tsilimos. “I’m all for it,” Tsilimos said. “A lot of small schools really struggle with numbers, and this would be a great solution. For example, a school like us playing eight-man with 30-35 kids would be like playing 11-man with 50-55 kids.” One of the major hurdles small schools face is other sports and extracurricular activities vying for students. In Tsilimos’ opinion, one solution that might help preserve 11-man football at the smaller schools would be to move boys soccer to the spring. “I have no problem with soccer, but I think that it would free up more kids to compete in football,” Tsilimos said. “In my opinion it might help save 11man football at small schools.” OHSAA associate commissioner Bob Goldring is a member of the organization’s emerging sports committee that is in the early stages of exploring eightman football. He acknowledged a number of factors that could potentially lead to the adoption of eight-man football in Ohio. “I don’t know if eight-man football is a safer game, but I do know with the concussion situation there are a number of families concerned and that may be a factor to numbers being down,” Goldring said. “Also football
“I’m all for it. A lot of small schools really struggle with numbers, and this would be a great solution.” JIM TSILIMOS, LISBON HEAD COACH
these days is becoming more and more of a year-round commitment. I certainly wouldn’t be surprised if we eventually get to the point where you see small schools in Ohio playing eightman football.” Regardless of what form it’s played in, Tsilimos’ main concern is making sure future generations get to experience the thrill of playing on Friday nights. “I’m for anything that allows small schools to keep playing,” Tsilimos said. “Football is football no matter how many players are on the field.”
OHSAA, Continued from Page 30A
before it becomes an OHSAA “recognized” sport. However, lacrosse, which is being sponsored starting this school year, will fall under the new “emerging” sports category because there are currently 122 boys teams and 118 girls teams. Any emerging sport is subject to an annual assessment from the OHSAA Board of Directors to review the potential for future growth and solvency. Should eight-man football be sponsored, Goldring said it would fall under the emerging sports category. “Right now, there is no magic number of schools that we are looking for,” Goldring said. “We’re just going to see if the interest keeps growing after this season.” No matter what happens going forward, Dunston said it there is almost no chance Open Door will go back to 11-man football. “We’re probably going to stick with eight-man going forward, we just don’t have the numbers to do anything else,” Dunston said. “With the direction things are going, I certainly don’t see any scenario in which eightman football doesn’t come to Ohio in the future. We’re just excited to be here at the start of it.”
Game notes
Eight-man football shares the same rules the traditional eleven-man game, with a few minor differences. Most eight-man leagues keep 100yard fields, but the fields are narrowed by about 13 yards. The eliminated players are usually two offensive linemen plus a skill position player on offense. On defense, two defensive backs and a defensive lineman are usually subtracted.
SOUTH RANGE RAIDERS
32A • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
Morning Journal/Chris Rambo
Members of the 2016 South Range football team are (front, from left) Taymer Graham, Seth Morrow, Nathan Daniszewski, David Pecchia, Ray Janecko, managaer Dan Creed, Ethan Dominguez, Bailey Peachock, Blake Sitch, Austin Kelly, Chris Herubin; (second row, from left) Josh Stear, Trent Harrold, Brendan Miller, Nick Habeth, Chris Grahovac, Shawn Oakes, Ian Toy, Cade Holmes, Christian Maust, Dave Fitzer, Ben Rivera; (third row, from left) Brennan Toy, John Oslavic, Devin Dillon, Anthony DeLucia, Seth Littleton, Joey Ickes, Jacob Shood, Brian Robinson, Levi Taylor, Mathias Combs; (fourth row, from left) A.J. Baytos, Peyton Remish, Colin McCabe, Sean Manning, Jordan Lowery, Anthony Czap, Patrick McCabe, Isaac Less, Rocco DeLucia; (fifth row, from left) Aniello Buzzacco, Tyler Dolak, Richard Ferenchak, Ryan Davenport, Corey Kougher, Alec Ballentine, Chris Brooks, Isaac Allegretto, Devin Lowry; (back, from left) coach Bart Dockry, coach Chuck Lengyel, coach Dave Rach, coach Wayne Allegretto, head coach Dan Yeagley, coach Nathan Toy, coach Joe Brooks and coach Nick Haught.
Raiders continue winning ways Classification Division V, Region, 17 2015 Record 6-4, including a 2-2 mark in the InterTri County League Red Division. The Raiders. The Raiders lost to four playoff teams (Warren JFK, Lisbon, Crestview and East Palestine), the last three by seven combined points.
Head Coach line Chuck Lengyel, running backs, defenDan Yeagley enters his 22nd season as Bart Dockry, offensive line, inside line- sive linemen head coach 176-60, including 13 state backers Returning lettermen playoff appearances and 10 league titles. Nathan Toy, running backs, defensive Seventeen, including five starters on ofbacks fense and seven on defense. Assistant coaches David Rach, tight ends, outside lineWayne Allegretto, quarterbacks, defen- backers Basic offensive formation sive backs Wally Ford, split ends, defensive backs Pistol. Don Allen, tight ends, defensive backs Nick Haught, split ends, defensive Joe Brooks, offensive line, defensive backs See RAIDERS, Page 33A
MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 33A
2016 SCHEDULE
All games start at 7 p.m., Aug. 26 McDonald Sept. 2 Western Reserve Sept. 9 at Akron Manchester Sept. 16 Mineral Ridge Sept. 23 at Lisbon Sept. 30 at Springfield Oct. 7 United Oct. 14 Crestview Oct. 21 at Indian Creek Oct. 28 at East Palestine
RAIDERS, Continued from Page 32A
Offensive outlook The Raiders have plenty of skill players returning, led by quarterbacks Seth Morrow and Aniello Buzzacco, running backs Nathan Daniszewski and Ethan Dominguez and split end Austin Kelly. South Range lost its entire offensive line to graduation and will be leaning on several newcomers to step up. “Offensively we need to play as a team and execute every play properly to be successful,” Yeagley said. “With so much inexperience up front, the scrimmages will be very important for us to gain the experience needed and to evaluate our players. 4-3.
Basic defensive formation
Defensive outlook The Raiders have a solid core from a defense that allowed an average of 14.0 points per game last season, tops in the area. “Up front the Raiders return Nathan Daniszewski and Ray Janecko,” Yeagley said. “At linebacker, we have Taymer Graham and Peyton Remish coming back and in the secondary we return Ethan Dominguez, David Pecchia and Aniello Buzzacco.” “The defense needs to play well every week for our team to be successful. They will be tested early with a very tough non-league schedule.”
South Range Raiders
10 Nick Habeth .................QB/DB........5-8.......135.......Soph. 11 Austin Kelly ..................WR/DB .......6-0.......160.......Sr. 12 Isaac Allegretto ............QB/DB........5-11 .....150.......Fr. 14 Aniello Buzzacco .........QB/DB........6-2.......190.......Jr. 15 Seth Morrow ................QB/DB........6-3.......220.......Sr. 16 Alec Ballentine .............WR/DB .......6-3.......165.......Soph. 17 Ben Rivera...................RB/DL ........5-6.......185.......Soph. 18 Mathias Combs............WR/DB .......5-9.......145.......Jr. 19 Brendan Miller .............WR/DB .......5-9.......125.......Jr. 20 Josh Stear ...................RB/DB ........5-11 .....160.......Soph. 21 Chris Brooks ................WR/DB .......6-1.......160.......Fr. 22 Ethan Dominguez ........RB/DB ........5-10.....180.......Sr. 23 David Pecchia..............RB/DB ........5-8.......175.......Sr. 24 Taymer Graham...........TE/LB .........6-0.......210.......Sr. 25 A.J. Baytos...................WR/LB........5-10.....150.......Jr. 26 Brennan Toy ................RB/LB.........5-8.......145.......Jr. 28 Joey Ickes....................RB/LB.........5-9.......150.......Soph. 29 Sean Manning .............RB/DL ........6-0.......145.......Fr. 30 Jacob Shood................RB/DB ........5-8.......130.......Fr. 31 Dan Creed ...................Manager 32 Nathan Daniszewski ....RB/LB.........6-0.......215.......Sr. 33 Anthony DeLucia .........TE/LB .........5-10.....190.......Fr. 34 Patrick McCabe ...........RB/LB.........6-0.......150.......Fr. 36 Trent Harrold................RB/LB.........5-7.......180.......Soph. 42 Peyton Ferenchak .......TE/DL.........6-1.......180.......Fr. 44 Peyton Remish ............RB/LB.........5-11 .....200.......Jr. 45 Ryan Davenport...........TE/LB .........6-2.......200.......Soph.
None.
Returning offensive linemen
50 Anthony Czap ..............OL/DL.........5-10.....190.......Fr. 51 Brian Robinson ............OL/LB.........5-10.....205.......Jr. 52 Levi Taylor ...................OL/LB.........5-9.......205.......Jr. 53 Chris Grahovac............OL/LB.........5-6.......180.......Soph. 54 Bailey Peachock ..........OL/DL.........5-11 .....200.......Sr. 55 Christian Maust............OL/LB.........5-9.......195.......Soph. 56 Matt Brooks .................OL/DL.........6-1.......240.......Jr. 57 Isaac Less ...................OL/DL.........5-8.......135.......Fr. 58 Jordan Lowery .............OL/DL.........5-10.....220.......Soph. 59 Ray Janecko................OL/DL.........5-9.......185.......Sr. 60 John Oslavic ................OL/DL.........5-8.......220.......Jr. 63 Tyler Dolak...................OL/DL.........6-3.......265.......Soph. 64 Cade Holmes...............OL/DL.........5-8.......150.......Fr. 65 Aaron Wire...................OL/DL.........6-4.......280.......Jr. 66 Deven Dillon ................OL/DL.........5-10.....145.......Fr. 67 Mike Schneider............OL/DL.........6-1.......185.......Soph. 71 Chris Herubin...............OL/DL.........6-0.......215.......Sr. 73 Devin Lowery...............OL/DL.........6-2.......230.......Jr. 74 Colin McCabe ..............OL/LB.........5-11 .....160.......Fr. 75 Dave Fitzer ..................OL/DL.........5-8.......210.......Soph. 76 Shawn Oakes ..............OL/DL.........5-7.......135.......Fr. 79 Rocco DeLucia ............OL/DL.........5-7.......265.......Fr. 80 Ian Toy .........................RB/DB ........5-8.......140.......Fr. 84 Seth Littleton................RB/DB ........5-8.......120.......Fr. 85 Blake Sitch...................TE/DL.........5-10.....185.......Sr. 88 Corey Kougher ............WR/DB .......5-11 .....135.......Fr.
Incoming defensive backs Seth Morrow (senior), Austin Kelly (senior), Brennan Toy (junior), Josh Stear (sophomore).
Incoming offensive linemen 2015 Players honored Chris Herubin (senior), Brian Robinson (junior), Levi J.R. Renforth (graduated), second-team Division V Taylor (junior), Matt Brooks (junior), Tyler Dolak All-Ohio and first-team All-Area. (sophomore), Ray Janecko (senior), Bailey Peachock, Nathan Daniszewski, third-team Division V All-Ohio Jordan Lowery (sophomore). and first-team All-Area. Greg Dunham (graduated), honorable mention AllReturning defensive linemen Area. Nathan Daniszewski (senior defensive end), Ray JaPeyton Remish, honorable mention All-Area. necko (senior defensive tackle). Taymer Graham, honorable mention All-Area.
THREE S E PRESS
Incoming defensive linemen 2015 Leaders Chris Herubin (senior), Blake Sitch (senior), Bailey Rushing — Ethan Dominguez, 905 yards and four Peachock, Matt Brooks (junior), Tyler Dolak (sopho- touchdowns on 127 carries (7.1); Seth Morrow, 384 Returning offensive backs more), Jordan Lowery (sophomore). yards and seven touchSeth Morrow (senior quarterback), Aniello Buzzacco downs on 96 carries (4.0); (junior quarterback), Nathan Daniszewski (senior runReturning linebackers J.R. Renforth (graduated) ning back), Ethan Dominguez (senior running back). Taymer Graham (senior outside linebacker), Payton 357 yards on 38 carries Remish (junior inside linebacker). (9.4); Nathan Daniszewski, Incoming offensive backs 238 yards and five touchDavid Pecchia (senior running back), Peyton Remish Incoming linebackers downs on 39 carries (junior). Brian Robinson (junior), Levi Taylor (junior), Trent (6.10). Harrold (sophomore). Passing — Seth Morrow Returning offensive ends completed 36 of 71 passes Austin Kelly (junior wide receiver). Returning defensive backs (51 percent) for 531 yards 11282 South Avenue • North Lima, OH Ethan Dominguez (senior), David Pecchia (senior), and four touchdowns; Incoming offensive ends Aniello Buzzacco (junior). Taymer Graham (senior wide receiver), Blake Sitch See RAIDERS, Page 41A (senior wide receiver).
330-549-0744
SOUTHERN LOCAL INDIANS
34A • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
Morning Journal/Patti Schaeffer
Members of the 2016 Southern Local football team are (front, from left) Anthony Vaughn, Zach Westover, Jesse Harris, Alec Smallridge, Devon Little, Colin Ayers, Tyler Halfhill, Zach Francis, Chris Short, Zack Almy, Dakota Wetzel, David Keyes; (second row, from left) Robert Frank, Austin Frischkorn, Kurtis Hawke,Justyn Lake,Joey Dickson, William Grodhaus, Paxston Cataldo, Trevor McCaffrey, Dominic Pugliano, Anthony Abraham, Logan Westover; (third row, from left) Dillon Everhart, Tiyler Tataseo, Tyler Milhoan, Matt Paxson, Brady Kellogg, Ashdon Shuman, Dalton Ash, Austin Roberts, Bryce Allen, Nick Eastham, ball boy Aiden Spahlinger; (fourth row, from left) Dustin Mellon, Dylan Milhoan, Jake Spencer, Latrell Crute, Steven Richards, Garrett Buxton, Mark Soukup, Stephan Craig, Dominic Walker, Devin Lopez, Gage Dickey; (back, from left) coaches Mike Skrinjar, Brian Spahlinger, Jordan Wrask, Steve Craig, Dan Spencer, James Malone, head coach Rich Wright, Dennis Bowers, Bill Croxall, Don Herr, Eric Nejus and Josh Pastore.
Indians tackle new challenges Classification Division VI, Region 21
2016 SCHEDULE
All games start at 7 p.m., Aug. 26 at Bridgeport Sept. 2 at Conotton Valley Sept. 9 Malvern Sept. 16 at United Sept. 23 Springfield Sept. 30 at Columbiana Oct. 7 Lisbon Oct. 14 at Leetonia Oct. 21 Clay-Battelle Oct. 28 Wellsville
sive backs 2015 Record Jim Malone, offensive line, defensive 2-8, including a 1-3 mark in the InterTri County League White Division. The line Eric Nejus, offensive line, defensive Indians have lost eight straight road line games and 14 of their last 15. Brian Spallinger, quarterbacks, defensive backs Head Coach Mike Skrinjar, running backs, lineRich Wright enters his second season as head coach. He has a career head backers Jess Krulik, quarterbacks, outside linecoaching record of 101-81, including a 16-7 record and two playoff appearance backers Josh Pastore, wide receivers, defensive at Wellsville from 2013-14 and a 83-66 record and six playoff appearance at backs Bill Croxall, equipment Beaver Local from 1998-2011. Returning lettermen Assistant coaches Fourteen, including eight starters on ofDennis Bowers, running backs, linefense and eight starters on defense. backers Jordan Wrask, wide receivers, defen-
Basic offensive formation Wing-T. Offensive outlook The Indians will rely on their offensive line to make up for the loss of quarterback Gabe Richards, the leading rusher and passer. “We’ve got everybody back up front,” Wright said. “We have a lot more experience and know the system better where we aren’t playing everyone both ways. We should be more productive. 50.
Basic defensive formation
See INDIANS Page 35A
MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 35A “We had to get stronger in the offseason and tackle better. If we tackle, I think we’ll be much improved.” RICH WRIGHT, SOUTHERN HEAD COACH
INDIANS, Continued from Page 34A
Defensive outlook The Indians have ranked last year in Columbiana County in defense the past two seasons, giving up 40.6 points per game last year. “We had to get stronger in the offseason and tackle better,” Wright said. “If we tackle, I think we’ll be much improved.” Returning offensive backs Dakota Wetzel (senior running back), Zach Westover (senior running back).
Southern Local Indians
1 Dylan Milhoan..............RB/DB ........5-5.......138.......Fr. 2 Dominic Pugliano.........WB/DB .......5-10.....165.......Jr. 3 Tyler Milhoan ...............QB/LB ........6-2.......190.......Jr. 5 Paxston Cataldo ..........RB/LB.........5-11 .....175.......Jr. 6 Jesse Harris.................WB/DB .......5-7.......150.......Sr. 7 Mark Soukup ...............WB/DB .......5-8.......155.......Fr. 8 Tyler Halfhill .................RB/LB.........6-2.......205.......Sr. 9 William Grodhaus ........QB/LB ........5-9.......175.......Jr. 10 Logan Westover ..........WR/DB .......5-9.......145.......Soph. 13 Chris Short...................WR/DB .......5-1.......165.......Sr. 21 Tiyler Tataseo ..............WR/DB .......6-1.......140.......Jr. 22 Joey Dickson ...............TE/LB .........5-11 .....185.......Jr. 23 Anthony Vaughn ..........WR/DB .......5-7.......145.......Sr. 25 Austin Roberts .............WR/DB .......5-11 .....160.......Soph. 26 Zach Westover ............RB/DB ........5-9.......160.......Sr. 28 Justyn Lake .................WR/LB........5-9.......165.......Soph. 29 David Keyes ................WR/LB........5-11 .....135.......Sr. 32 Bryce Allen...................WR/DB .......5-11 .....160.......Jr. 33 Dakota Wetzel .............RB/LB.........5-9.......190.......Sr. 37 Colin Ayters .................TE/DL.........6-1.......205.......Sr. 44 Austin Mellon ...............TE/DL.........5-7.......155.......Fr. 47 Robert Frank................RB/LB.........5-6.......145.......Jr.
49 Gage Dickey ................RB/LB.........5-6.......185.......Fr. 50 Anthony Abraham ........OL/DL.........5-10.....270.......Jr. 51 Garrett Buxton .............OL/DL.........6-0.......230.......Fr. 52 Alec Smallridge............OL/LB.........5-11 .....215.......Sr. 55 Stephan Craig..............OL/DL.........5-10.....245.......Fr. 61 Kurtis Hawke ...............OL/DL.........5-9.......250.......Soph. 63 Matt Paxson.................OL/DL.........6-0.......203.......Jr. 64 Jake Spencer...............OL/DL.........5-11 .....295.......Fr. 65 Zach Francis................OL/DL.........6-1.......330.......Sr. 68 Devon Little..................OL/DL.........6-0.......240.......Sr. 71 Dominic Walker ...........OL/DL.........5-6.......290.......Fr. 75 Brady Kellogg ..............OL/DL.........6-2.......280.......Jr. 76 Steven Richards ..........OL/DL.........6-1.......308.......Fr. 77 Ashdon Shuman ..........OL/DL.........6-4.......310.......Jr. 79 Zack Almy ....................OL/DL.........5-10.....305.......Sr. 82 Trevor McCaffrey .........WR/DB .......5-10.....160.......Jr. 84 Dalton Ash ...................WR/DB .......6-2.......160.......Jr. 85 Austin Frischkorn .........WR/LB........5-7.......175.......Soph. 6 Devin Lopez.................WR/DB .......5-3.......115.......Fr. 7 Nick Eastham ..............WR/DB .......6-1.......175.......Soph. 13 Latrell Crute .................WR/DB .......5-10.....160.......Fr. 49 Dillon Everhart .............OL/LB.........5-10.....185.......Soph.
Returning defensive backs games, believes things will start to get turned around this Jesse Harris (senior cornerback), Chris Short (senior season. Incoming offensive backs The Indians will be counting on their 12 seniors and safety), Dakota Wetzel (senior safety), Dominic Tyler Milhoan (junior quarterback), William Grod15 juniors. Pugliano (junior cornerback). haus (junior quarterback), Paxston Cataldo (junior full“Our numbers are better,” Wright said. “Not playing back), Dominic Pugliano (junior wingback), Mark everybody both ways, I think we’ll be a lot better. We’ve Incoming defensive backs Soukup (freshman wingback). Jesse Harris (senior cornerback), Dominic Pugliano got to stay healthy and get better every week.” He expects three players to be playing both ways en(junior cornerback), Zach Westover (senior safety). Returning offensive ends tering the season. Chris Short (senior split end). “I expect to improve quite a bit,” Wright said. “I think 2015 Players honored we can surprise some people this year.” Gabe Richards (graduated), first-team All-Area. Incoming offensive ends Wright expects Columbiana and Lisbon to be the top Joe Gibson (graduated), honorable mention All-Area. Joey Dickson (junior tight end), teams in the Inter-Tri County League Zack Almy, honorable mention All-Area. “I know Columbiana is the defending champs and LisReturning offensive linemen bon has a great team from what I hear.” 2015 Leaders Zack Almy (senior guard), Anthony Abraham (junior Rushing — Gabe Richards (graduated) 921 yards and center), Alec Smallridge (senior guard), Devon Little 12 touchdowns on 151 carries (6.1). (senior tackle). Passing — Gabe Richards (graduated) 443 yards and “GOOD LUCK, two touchdowns. Incoming offensive linemen INDIANS!” Brady Kellogg (junior tackle), Ashdon Shuman (ju2016 Outlook nior tackle). Southern Local, which has won five of its last 31 Returning defensive linemen Zack Almy (senior tackle). Incoming defensive linemen Zach Francis (senior tackle), Stephan Craig (freshman end), Steven Richards (freshman tackle). Returning linebackers Paxston Cataldo (junior), Alec Smallridge (senior), Robert Frank (junior). Incoming linebackers William Grodhaus (junior), Austin Frischkorn (sophomore).
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SPRINGFIELD TIGERS
36A • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
Morning Journal/Chris Rambo
Members of the 2016 Springfield football team are (front, from left) Ethan Nezbeth, Zach Renaldy, Tyler Miletta, Jake Ford, Dom Merilillo, Russell Seymour, Zack Barber, Frankie Centofanti, Patrick Flara, Gabe Barnard; (second row, from left) Luke Snyder, John Slike, Ryan Del Signore, Joey Santangelo, John Socha, Austin Trebella, Eric Dunkel, Chris Shoemaker, David Duvall; (third row, from left) Ray Nespeca, Kyler Blair, Bobby Druschel, Ryan Ohlin, Vito Argenziano, Brannon Brungard, Zack Stouffer, J.T Sandrock, Cole Smith, Anthony Siciliano; (fourth row, from left) Levi Baker, Garrett Stallsmith, Keaton Vega, Chris Thompson, Harley Pearson, Brandon Walters, Ryan Thompson, Daniel Polunus, Garrett Walker; (fifth row, from left) Chandler Kertesz, Dylann Jordan, Nick Guillard, Andy Lyda, Ben Chaszeyca, Patrick Beight, Lindan Gardner, Steven Cvetkovich; (back, from left) Anthony Stouffer, Sean Thompson, Noah Barrett, Corey Hatton, Dustin Brown and Shane Eynon.
Springfield’s schedule is loaded Classification Division VI, Region 21
Head Coach Mark Brungard, offensive coordinator, Austin Saverko, offensive line, defensive line Sean Guerriero enters his 10th season quarterbacks, defensive backs as head coach with a record of 45-47 and Bill Miller, receivers, secondary. Returning lettermen 2015 Record two playoff appearances. He was an asRon Stallsmith, running backs, defenEleven, including six starters on of4-6, including a 1-3 mark in the Inter- sistant at Girard for four years and sive line Tri County League Red Division. The Gilmour Academy one year. Joe Antonucci, offensive line, line- fense and five starters on defense. Tigers went 2-6 against teams with winbackers ning records. Assistant coaches Dom Petrony, receivers, outside lineSee SPRINGFIELD, Page 37A Adam Slopek, defensive coordinator backers
MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 37A
SPRINGFIELD, Continued from Page 36A
Basic offensive formation Power Spread. Offensive outlook The Tigers return six starters, including leading rusher Frank Centofanti, who had 1,106 all-purpose yards. “We’re going to be multiple sets and a running power game,” Guerriero said. “With (former Poland coach Mark Brungard) coming over, it has a been a positive for the whole team. We’re going to try to establish the run to give Brannon (Brungard) time in pocket. 3-4.
Basic defensive formation
Defensive outlook “I don’t know how big we’re going to be, but we’re going to be fast,”Guerriero said. “So we’ll be able to get to the football and hopefully turnovers. Returning offensive backs Frank Centofanti (senior running back).
Springfield Local Tigers
1 Tyler Miletta .................WR/LB........5-5.......134.......Sr. 2 Frank Centofanti ..........RB/DB ........5-10.....180.......Sr. 3 Brandon Walters..........QB/DB........5-9.......150.......Jr. 4 John Slike ....................QB/DB........5-6.......130.......Fr. 5 Ryan Ohlin...................RB/LB.........5-10.....165.......Jr. 6 Bobby Druschel ...........QB/DB........5-8.......151.......Fr. 7 Jake Ford.....................QB/DB........5-11 .....156.......Sr. 8 Brannon Brungard .......QB/DB........5-11 .....168.......Soph. 9 Zach Barber.................WR/DB .......6-2.......181.......Sr. 10 Garrett Walker .............RB/DB ........5-8.......146.......Fr. 12 Shane Eynon...............WR/LB........6-1.......203.......Fr. 14 Joey Santangelo..........RB/DB ........5-8.......200.......Sr. 15 Austin Trebella .............RB/DB ........5-5.......143.......Jr. 19 Ethan Nezbeth.............WR/DB .......6-1.......180.......Sr. 20 Daniel Polonus ............RB/DB ........5-9.......150.......Soph. 21 Cole Smith ...................WR/DB .......5-9.......135.......Jr. 22 Garrett Stallsmith.........RB/LB.........5-8.......167.......Fr. 24 Zack Stouffer ...............RB/LB.........5-8.......169.......Soph. 25 Luke Snyd....................RB/LB.........5-9.......125.......Soph. 28 Ray Nespeca ...............RB/LB.........5-5.......169.......Fr. 30 Vito Argenziano ...........K.................5-8.......185.......Jr. 32 Gabe Barnard ..............RB/LB.........6-2.......200.......Sr. 33 Levi Baker....................WR/LB........5-10.....148.......Fr. 34 David Duvall ................RB/LB.........5-7.......140.......Fr. 35 JT Sandrock ................WR/DB .......5-11 .....145.......Soph. 40 Eric Dunkel ..................WR/DB .......5-7.......125.......Fr.
Incoming offensive backs Brannon Brungard (sophomore quarterback), Luke Snyder (sopohomore running back), Joey Santangelo (senior fullback), Zack Stouffer (fullback). nior center), Ben Cheszeyca (sophomore tackle). Returning offensive ends Jake Ford (senior wide receiver), Ethan Nezbeth (senior wide receiver), Brandon Walters (junior wide receiver-quarterback).
None.
Returning defensive linemen
Incoming defensive linemen Anthony Stouffer (junior), Ryan Thomson (junior), Incoming offensive ends John Socha (senior), Russell Seymour (senior), Zach ReAustin Trbella (junior wide receiver), Zack Barber (se- naldy (senior), Ben Cheszeyca (sophomore), Keaton nior wide receiver), Gabe Barnard (senior tight end), Vega (junior). Shane Eynon (sophomore tight end). Returning linebackers Returning offensive linemen Gabe Barnard (senior outside), Joey Santangelo (seRussell Seymour (senior tackle), Ryan Thompson (ju- nior inside). nior guard). Incoming linebackers Incoming offensive linemen Zack Stouffer (sophomore inside), Ethan Nezbeth (seAnthony Stouffer (junior guard), Zach Renaldy (se-
2016 SCHEDULE
All games start at 7 p.m., Aug. 26 Brookfield Sept. 2 at McDonald Sept. 9 Cuyahoga Heights Sept. 16 Western Reserve Sept. 23 at Southern Sept. 30 South Range Oct. 7 at Columbiana Oct. 14 East Palestine Oct. 21 at Crestview Oct. 28 at United
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45 Kyler Bair .....................WR/DB .......5-8.......132.......Fr. 47 Corey Hatton ...............TE/DL.........6-2.......175.......Fr. 49 Ryan Del Signore ........TE/DL.........5-11 .....185.......Sr. 51 Harley Pearson............OL/DL.........5-9.......213.......Jr. 52 Anthony Stouffer ..........OL/DL.........5-9.......217.......Jr. 53 Keaton Vega................OL/DL.........5-10.....264.......Jr. 54 DomMerilillo.................OL/DL.........5-7.......200.......Sr. 55 John Socha..................OL/DL.........5-9.......218.......Sr. 58 Zach Renaldy ..............OL/DL.........5-10.....194.......Sr. 59 Andy Lyda....................OL/DL.........6-0.......189.......Soph. 61 Chris Thompson ..........OL/DL.........5-8.......213.......Fr. 64 Russell Seymour .........OL/DL.........6-2.......250.......Sr. 65 Nick Guillard ................OL/DL.........5-10.....197.......Soph. 68 Ryan Thompson ..........OL/DL.........5-8.......227.......Jr. 70 Chandler Kertesz.........OL/DL.........6-1.......226.......Soph. 72 Ben Chaszeyca ...........OL/DL.........6-2.......242.......Soph. 73 Dyllan Jordan...............OL/DL.........6-0.......216.......Jr. 75 Noah Barrett ................OL/DL.........5-8.......139.......Fr. 77 Dustin Brown ...............OL/DL.........6-0.......245.......Soph. 78 Sean Thompson ..........OL/DL.........5-11 .....259.......Fr. 79 Anthony Siciliano .........OL/DL.........5-8.......259.......Jr. 80 Patrick Flara ................TE/K ...........6-4.......180.......Sr. 81 Steven Cvetkovich.......TE/DL.........5-10.....174.......Jr. 85 Lindan Gardner............WR/LB........5-10.....155.......Soph. 86 Chris Shoemaker.........RB/LB.........5-7.......135.......Fr. 88 Patrick Beight ..............WR/DB .......6-1.......163.......Jr.
nior outside), Zack Barber (senior inside), Shane Eynon (sophomore outside). Returning defensive backs Jake Ford (senior cornerback), Brandon Walters (junior cornerback), Frank Centofanti (senior safety). See STORY, Page 41A
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UNITED GOLDEN EAGLES
38A • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
Morning Journal/Ron Firth
2016 SCHEDULE
All games start at 7 p.m., Aug. 26 at Malvern Sept. 2 Salem Sept. 9 at Lisbon Sept. 16 Southern Sept. 23 at McDonald Sept. 30 Crestview Oct. 7 at South Range Oct. 14 Wellsville Oct. 21 at East Palestine Oct. 28 Springfield
Members of the 2016 United football team are (front, from left) Kyle Bailey, Jordan Russell, Kaden Smith, Jake Blake, Colton Graham, Jake Clark, Colton Bowen, Tyler Humphrey, Josh Good; (second row, from left) Nathan Mikell, Kiel Jones, Jemin Davis, Jared Delvichio, Toby Richmond, Drew Browne, Andrew Dulak, Corey Hawk, Tyler Humphrey; (third row, from left) Parker Hydrick, Brendan Rose, Anthony DiBaggio, Brian Lippiatt, Gary Eichler, Zach Himes, Landon Baker, Brady Leyman, Gunner McIntosh; (fourth row, from left) Tyler Lipiatt, Christian Barnes, Nicholas Runkle, Austen Keshock, Tyler Richmond, Ethan Antram, Kody Vint, Nick Rhodes, Bodey Kiko, Deric Ellyson; (back, from left) coach Jake Kilroy, coach Mike Ward, coach Jim Fisher, head coach Michael Demster, coach Jordan Phillips, coach Brian Lippiatt, coach Ryan Powell and coach Ethan Blatch. Not pictured are Anthony Dimuzzio, Austin Crowell and coach Frank Baker.
“Staying healthy on the offensive line is key. However, our overall depth is much better this season with 20 returning lettermen.” MICHAEL DEMSTER, UNITED HEAD COACH
MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 39A
Eagles have youth and experience Classification Division VI, Region 21
4-3.
2015 Record 2-8, including an 0-4 mark in the InterTri County League Red Division. The Eagles started 2-2, but ended the season on a six-game losing streak. It was their fewest wins since 2000. Head Coach Michael Demster enters his second season as head coach. He was the defensive coordinator at Oak Glen in West Virginia in 2014 after nine years in North Carolina, including two years as defensive coordinator at West Stanly. Assistant coaches Jordan Phillips, defensive coordinator, running backs, linebackers Frank Baker, offensive line, defensive line Jake Kilroy, defensive ends, kickers Brian Lippiatt, running backs, linebackers Ryan Powell, wide receivers, defensive backs Mike Ward, offensive line, defensive line
Morning Journal/Ron Firth
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Defensive outlook The biggest loss is Antram, who AllArea linebacker last season who led the team with 86 tackles. But Colton Bowen is back after suffering a season-ending injury in the opener. “The loss of Antram as well as Tyler Powers will be felt on the defensive side of the ball too,” Demster said. However, like the offensive side, the Eagles also have quite a bit of experience returning. “Senior Jake Blake and juniors Toby Richmond, Tyler Humphrey, Josh Good and Andrew Dulak all return on the defensive line,” Demster said. “Seniors Colton Bowen, Colton Graham and sophomore Brady Leyman are all back at linebacker and the secondary also returns Jake Clark, Nathan Mikell, Kaden Smith and Cade Wood. Corey Hawk and Ethan Antram will also get time in the defensive backfield.”
Returning offensive backs Colton Graham (senior quarterback), Colton Bowen (senior fullback), Cade Senior Jake Clark returns at receiver, Wood (junior tailback), Parker Hydrick along with juniors Nathan Mikell and (sophomore tailback). Kaden Smith. Tyler Humphrey returns at tight end. Incoming offensive backs “Also look for sophomores Ethan Josh Good (junior fullback). Antram and Landon Baker to catch some passes,” Demster said. See EAGLES, Page 40A
United linebacker Colton Bowen (45) makes a tackle against Malvern in the season opener last year. Bowen suffered a season-ending leg injury in the second half, but is ready to go for his senior season.
back, but lose feature backs Colton Returning lettermen Antram and Tyler Powers. Twenty, including 18 who started at “Look for Cade Wood and Parker Hysome point last season. drick to step up and fill those roles,” Demster said. Basic offensive formation Up front, the Eagles return all of their I formation. linemen, but are still searching for a consistent rotation. Josh Good will play fullOffensive outlook United broke in young players at sev- back after starting at guard last season. “We need to find five guys to develop eral positions last season and hopes to be some consistency after starting a different better with another year of experience. The Eagles return Colton Graham at lineup for all 10 games last season,” quarterback and Colton Bowen at full- Demster said. “GO EAGLES!”
Basic defensive formation
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40A • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
United Golden Eagles
United senior receiver Jake Clark
EAGLES, Continued from Page 39A
Returning offensive ends Jake Clark (senior wide receiver), Nathan Mikell (junior wide receiver), Tyler Humphrey (junior tight end), Kaden Smith (junior wide receiver). Incoming offensive ends Ethan Antram (sophomore wide receiver), Corey Hawk (junior wide receiver), Landon Baker (sophomore tight end). Returning offensive linemen Jake Blake (senior tackle), Gary Eichler (junior guard), Kyle Bailey (junior center), Andrew Dulak (junior guard), Toby Richmond (junior tackle), Brady Leyman (sophomore center), Brian Lippiatt (junior guard). None.
Incoming offensive linemen
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1 Zach Himes .................WR/DB/K....5-6.......135.......Jr. 2 Bodey Kiko ..................QB/LB ........6-2.......170.......Fr. 3 Jake Clark....................WR/DB .......6-1.......170.......Sr. 4 Parker Hydrick .............RB/DB ........5-11 .....160.......Soph. 5 Josh Good ...................RB/DE ........5-11 .....190.......Jr. 6 Nicholas Runkle...........WR/DB .......5-4.......125.......Soph. 7 Jared Delvichio ............TE/DL.........5-10.....190.......Jr. 8 Gunner McIntosh .........RB/LB.........6-1.......160.......Soph. 9 Ethan Antram...............WR/DB .......5-11 .....140.......Soph. 10 Kaden Smith ................WR/DB .......6-2.......180.......Jr. 11 Colton Graham ............QB/LB ........5-11 .....170.......Sr. 12 Nathan Mikell...............WR/DB .......5-9.......170.......Jr. 17 Jemin Davis .................WR/DB .......5-10.....140.......Jr. 19 Nick Rhodes ................RB/DB ........5-6.......135.......Soph. 20 Jordan Russell.............K.................6-0.......155.......Jr. 21 Corey Hawk .................WR/DB .......5-11 .....170.......Jr. 22 Kiel Jones ....................RB/DB ........5-10.....145.......Jr. 23 Drew Browne ...............WR/LB........5-11 .....160.......Jr. 25 Anthony Dimuzzio........WR/DB .......5-9.......130.......Fr.
30 Austin Crowell..............RB/DB ........5-4.......145.......Fr. 32 Cade Wood..................RB/DB ........5-9.......170.......Jr. 33 Tyler Humphrey ...........TE/DE ........6-1.......200.......Jr. 34 Landon Baker ..............WR/LB .......6-3.......165.......Soph. 40 Tyler Lippiatt ................RB/LB.........5-6.......160.......Fr. 42 Brendan Rose..............OL/DL.........5-10.....150.......Soph. 45 Colton Bowen ..............RB/LB.........5-11 .....200.......Sr. 52 Christian Barnes .......... OL/DL........5-10.....170.......Fr. 54 Andrew Dulak ..............OL/DE ........5-10.....185.......Jr. 55 Kyle Bailey................... OL/LB........5-11 .....200.......Jr. 56 Brian Lippiatt................OL/LB.........5-8.......180.......Jr. 57 Gary Eichler.................OL/LB.........5-9.......170.......Jr. 70 Toby Richmond............OL/DL.........6-2.......235.......Jr. 72 Brady Leyman .............OL/LB.........6-0.......180.......Soph. 74 Deric Ellyson................OL/DE ........5-8.......170.......Fr. 75 Kody Vint .....................OL/DL.........5-7.......145.......Soph. 77 Jake Blake ...................OL/DL.........5-10.....240.......Sr. 78 Tyler Richmond............OL/DL.........5-11 .....60.........Soph. 88 Austen Keshock...........WR/DB .......5-6.......100.......Soph.
tackle), Toby Richmond (junior All-Area. tackle), Andrew Dulak (junior end), Josh Good (junior end). 2015 Leaders Rushing — Colton Antram (gradIncoming defensive linemen uated) 582 yards and six touchBrendan Rose (sophomore tackle). downs on 104 carries (5.6); Tyler Powers (graduated) 265 yards and Returning linebackers three touchdowns on 58 carries Colton Graham (senior middle (4.6); Colton Graham, 176 yards linebacker), Colton Bowen (senior and four touchdowns on 52 carries outside linebacker), Brady Leyman (3.4). (sophomore outside linebacker), Passing — Colton Graham comGary Eichler (junior middle line- pleted 66 of 134 passes (49 percent) backer). for 862 yards and six touchdowns. Receiving — Tyler Powers (gradIncoming linebackers uated) 13 catches for 230 yards None. (7.7) and two touchdowns; Jake Clark, 12 catches for 174 yards Returning defensive backs (14.5) and two touchdowns; Nathan Cade Wood (junior strong safety), Mikell, 11 catches for 104 yards Nathan Mikell (junior cornerback), (9.5); Cade Wood, 10 catches for Jake Clark (senior cornerback), 165 yards (16.5) and one touchKaden Smith junior cornerback). down. Scoring — Colton Antram (gradIncoming defensive backs uated) 59 points; Tyler Powers Corey Hawk (junior free safety), (graduated) 36; Colton Graham 24. Ethan Antram (sophomore strong Tackles — Colton Antram (gradsafety), Parker Hydrick (sophomore uated) 86; Colton Graham 63; Brady free safety). Leyman 44. 2015 Players honored Interceptions — Jake Clark 2; Colton Antram (graduated), spe- Nathan Mikell 1. cial mention Division VI All-Ohio and first-team All-Area. 2016 Outlook Tyler Powers (graduated), honorThe Eagles have only four seniors, able mention All-Area. but are much more experienced than Colton Graham, honorable men- last season. Many underclassmen tion All-Area. were pressed into duty during an inJake Clark, honorable mention jury-plagued campaign. The Eagles
United senior Jake Blake
used a different starting offensive line every game last year. The injuries caught up to the Eagles as they gave up an average of 51.7 points a game during the season-ending six-game losing streak. “Staying healthy on the offensive line is key,” Demster said. “However, our overall depth is much better this season with 20 returning lettermen.”
MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 41A
ITCL, Continued from Page 17A
ern Buckeye Conference that begins play in the 2018-19 school year. That league includes seven current Northeastern Buckeye Conference schools (Alliance Canton South, Carrollton, Marlington Salem, Minerva and West Branch) that left Louisville behind. Crestview is seeking membership into the Ohio Valley Athletic Conference and is open to joining another league, too. “You kind of want to go out right in the last year of the ITCL,” Springfield senior running back Frank Centofanti said. “You want to see how you can finish. “It will be weird not playing South Range, not playing the rivals.” Others aren’t too concerned about the last year of the league. “I don’t like to think about it like that,” Lisbon senior running back Jason Thompson said. “I like to think about it as us coming back another year to do what we do.” “It doesn’t really concern me as much as it does the other guys,” said United quarterback Colton Graham, one of four seniors on the team. “I’m just really focused on who we play this year.” “I don’t think they (the underclassmen) are too worried about it right now because that’s next year,” Kimmel said. “We’re looking forward to this year.” The last ITCL league games will be on Oct. 28, which will close out the playing careers of most of the seniors. “I’d probably think more about it if it was my junior year,” Southern Local senior lineman Zack Almy said. “If I had new league next year, I’d tell my guys you’ve got to go all out because it’s the last time we’re going to be facing some of these opponents.” “I’ve heard a few things about the schedule is going to change a lot for Wellsville next year,” Wellsville senior running back Branzen Grodhaus said. “It can be good and bad. You don’t have to play Western Reserve and McDonald if you don’t want to, you can play more local schools. You will have a bigger crowds and that will be nice.” By this time next year, the Inter-Tri County League will be just a memory. “It’s really kind of weird to see that the league we’ve been playing in is
“I’m kind of happy to be the last people to be playing in this league. We’re the ones who get to close it out.” JAKE HENRY, LEETONIA SENIOR
coming to an end,” Leetonia senior lineman Jake Henry said. “I’m kind of happy to be the last people to be playing in this league. We’re the ones who get to close it out.” ——— 2016 INTER-TRI COUNTY LEAGUE Red Division Crestview East Palestine South Range Springfield United White Division Columbiana Leetonia Lisbon Southern Wellsville Blue Division Lowellville Jackson-Milton McDonald Mineral Ridge Sebring Western Reserve ——— 2017 EASTERN OHIO ATHLETIC CONFERENCE Columbiana East Palestine Leetonia Lisbon Southern Local Toronto United Wellsville ——— MAHONING VALLEY ATHLETIC CONFERENCE Jackson-Milton Lowellville McDonald Mineral Ridge Sebring Springfield Waterloo Western Reserve
RAIDERS, Continued from Page 33A
Aniello Buzzacco completed 13 of 19 passes (68 percent) for 186 yards and three touchdowns; Greg Dunham (graduated) completed 15 of 20 passes (75 percent) for 183 yards and one touchdown. Receiving — Greg Dunham (graduated) 18 catches for 285 yards (15.8) and three touchdowns; Nick Stanton (graduated) 18 catches for 284 yards (16.8) and two touchdowns. Scoring — Levi Taylor 47 points; Seth Morrow 42 points; Nick Stanton (graduated) 36 points; Ethan Dominguez 30; Nathan Daniszewski 30. Tackles — J.R. Renforth (graduated) 118. Interceptions — Austin Kelly 1, Aniello Buzzaco 1; Greg Dunham (graduated) 1.
“Throughout 2015 we played a lot of different players,” Yeagley said. “The 2015 seniors showed great leadership and taught the younger classes what it takes to be successful.” The Raiders will plunge head-first into 2016 with a schedule that leads off with McDonald, Western Reserve and Akron Manchester. The three teams combined for a 20-10 record last season. South Range concludes its season with a tricky threegame stretch that includes Crestview, Indian Creek and East Palestine, all three which made state playoff appearances last season. “Even though we played a lot of players, the Raiders still have to mature very quickly because of a very tough nonleague schedule and a very strong 2016 Outlook league,” Yeagley said. “We’ve worked Despite breaking in several new skill po- very hard during offseason conditioning. sition players last season, the Raiders still Our scrimmages this year will be a real produced a solid 6-4 record for their 15th test and will help us prepare for the upwinning season in the last 17 years. coming season.”
SPRINGFIELD, Continued from Page 37A
(8.6); Jake Ford, 16 catches for 237 yards Incoming defensive backs Austin Trbella (junior cornerback), (14.8) and two touchdowns. Scoring — Frank Centofanti 60 points; Tyler Miletta (senior cornerback). Graham Mincher (graduated) 48; Patrick Flara 45; Cody Allen (graduated) 42. 2015 Players honored Tackles — Hunter Troggio (graduated) Graham Mincher (graduated), secondteam Division VI All-Ohio and first-team 103; Gabe Barnard 94; Joey Santangelo 59. All-Area. Interceptions — Cody Allen (graduated) Russell Seymour, special mention Division VI All-Ohio and first-team All-Area. 2. 2016 Outlook Cody Allen (graduated), honorable menThe Tigers are coming off a 4-6 season tion All-Area. Frank Centofanti, honorable mention that could have been better. They lost to Crestview by one point and Western ReAll-Area. serve by two points. 2015 Leaders “I think we have a good senior group Rushing — Frank Centofanti, 613 yards and 10 touchdowns on 115 carries (5.3); and has been a positive,” Guerriero said. Graham Mincher (graduated) 472 yards “If can fill some of our spots with our and seven touchdowns on 114 carries younger kids, we’ll be OK.” The Tigers have to fill those spots (4.1). Passing — Graham Mincher (gradu- quickly as their schedule includes six ated) completed 126 of 218 passes (58 teams that advanced to the playoffs last percent) for 1,514 yards and 13 touch- year. “Teams have been on top for so long, downs with five interceptions. Receiving — Cody Allen (graduated) South Range and Crestview, have to be fa48 catches for 636 yards (13.3) and seven vored (in the ITCL) along with East Palestouchdown; Ethan Nezbeth, 19 catches for tine,” Guerriero said. “I think East 235 yards (12.4) and three touchdowns; Palestine showed last year you have to be Frank Centofanti, 18 catches for 154 yards ready every week.”
WELLSVILLE TIGERS
42A • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
Morning Journal/Patti Schaeffer
Members of the 2016 Wellsville football team are (front, from left) Members of the 2016 Wellsville football team are (front, from left) Chad Tice, Justin Miller, Ishmeil Heard, Brandon Tate, Andre Sloan, Conner Ramsay, Blayke McCloud, Derrick Suggs, Jayce Sloan; (second row, from left) Gage Ramos, Austin Carter, Hayden Dalrymple, Ryan Ingram, Bradly Cline, Jason Tice, Draven Crow, Cameren Grodhaus, Branzen Grodhaus, Michael Shope; (third row, from left) Briar Cunningham, Braden Cartwright, Colten Green, Ryan Miller, Norman Rudder, Justin Thirtyacre, Skyler Delauder, Mathew Stacey, Ethan Ferguson, Jonathan Walker, Jordan Spellick; (back row, from left) coach Jon Carter, coach Rich Sloan, coach Bruce Harris, Cameron Cramer, Matt Rawson, head coach Derrick Spann, Ricky Tice, Brandon Patterson, coach Shawn Carter, coach Jimmy Thirtyacre and coach Rob Long.
Tigers are excited to get started Classification Division VII, Region 25 2015 Record 5-5, including a 2-2 mark in the InterTri County League White Division. The
2016 SCHEDULE
All games start at 7 p.m., Aug. 26 Toronto Sept. 2 East Palestine Sept. 9 at Lowellville Sept. 16 McDonald Sept. 23 at Western Reserve Sept. 30 Lisbon Oct. 7 Leetonia Oct. 14 at United Oct. 21 at Columbiana Oct. 28 at Southern
Tigers five losses came to Toronto, East Palestine, Western Reserve, Lisbon and Columbiana, which had a combined record of 43-13. Head Coach Derrick Spann enters his second season as head coach. He was a varsity assistant at Wellsville the previous two seasons and has been involved with the Junior Tigers for two decades. Assistant coaches Bruce Harris Jon Carter Jimmy Thirtyacre Richie Sloan Rob Long Mike DeSarro Shawn Carter
Dirk Hall
Defensive outlook Even though the Tigers lost linebacker Returning lettermen Vinny Giordano, the team’s leading tackTwelve, including eight starters on of- ler each of the last four seasons, they refense and eight starters on defense. turn eight starters from a defense that gave up an average of 18.8 points per Basic offensive formation game. Spread. “We will be fast and very athletic,” Spann said. “Very active in the backfield Offensive outlook with good height.” The Tigers win when they score big. They averaged 35.0 points in five wins Returning offensive backs last season and 10.4 points in the five Branzen Grodhaus (senior running losses. back), Bradly Cline (senior running back), “We have good speed at skill positions Justin Miller (senior quarterback). and a bit of inexperience on offensive line,” Spann said. Incoming offensive backs Derrick Suggs (sophomore running Basic defensive formation 4-4. See TIGERS, Page 44A
MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 43A
Wellsville Tigers
Wellsville tight end Hayden Dalrymple
TIGERS, Continued from Page 43A
10 Jayce Sloan .................QB/CB........6-1.......145.......Fr. 12 Derrick Suggs ..............RB/LB.........5-9.......170.......Soph. 13 Blayke McCloud...........TE/LB .........6-1.......175.......Jr. 14 Conner Ramsey...........WR/LB........5-7.......150.......Fr. 15 Andre Sloan .................WR/CB .......6-0.......160.......Jr. 16 Brandon Tate ...............RB/LB.........5-9.......180.......Soph. 17 Ishmeil Heard ..............WR/CB .......5-10.....145.......Sr. 18 Justin Miller..................QB/S ..........6-3.......180.......Sr. 19 Chad Tice ....................WR/CB .......5-7.......130.......Fr. 21 Michael Shope.............WR/S..........5-11 .....180.......Sr. 22 Branzen Grodhaus ......RB/LB.........6-0.......205.......Sr. 23 Cameren Grodhaus .....RB/S...........5-8.......150.......Fr. 24 Draven Crow................TE/DE ........6-1.......160.......Fr. 25 Jason Tice ...................RB/CB ........5-5.......120.......Fr. 27 Bradly Cline .................RB/LB.........5-9.......155.......Sr. 30 Ryan Ingram ................WR/CB .......5-10.....140.......Jr. 35 Hayden Dalrymple .......TE/DE ........5-11 .....215.......Sr.
Returning linebackers Bradly Cline (senior), Branzen Grodhaus (senior).
52 Austin Carter................G/DT ..........5-9.......175.......Sr. 54 Gage Ramos ...............G/DT ..........5-8.......190.......Soph. 55 Jordan Spellick ............G/DT ..........5-11 .....170.......Sr. 56 Jonathan Walker..........G/DT ..........5-10.....140.......Fr. 58 Ethan Ferguson ...........T/DE...........5-9.......180.......Fr. 60 Mathew Stacey ............T/DT ...........5-11 .....180.......Jr. 67 Skyler Delauder ...........T/DT ...........6-1.......265.......Sr. 68 Justin Thirtyacre ..........C/DT...........5-10.....250.......Soph. 72 Norman Rudder ...........G/DT ..........6-0.......215.......Sr. 74 Ryan Miller...................T/DT ...........6-0.......250.......Jr. 75 Colten Green ...............T/DT ...........5-9.......215.......Soph. 76 Braden Cartwright........C/DT...........5-10.....190.......Fr. 77 Briar Cunningham........T/DT ...........6-0.......175.......Fr. 82 Brandon Patterson.......TE/DE ........6-0.......175.......Jr. 83 Ricky Tice ....................TE/DE ........5-11 .....165.......Jr. 85 Matt Rawson................WR/S..........6-1.......165.......Jr. 87 Cameron Cramer.........TE/LB .........5-11 .....190.......Jr.
Tackles — Vinny Giordano (graduated) 123. Interceptions — Michael Shope 6.
Incoming linebackers 2016 Outlook Blayke McCloud (junior), Derrick Suggs (sophoThere are high hopes at Wellsville as the Tigers remore), Brandon Tate (sophomore), Cameron Carter (ju- turn eight starters on each side of the ball. Returning offensive ends Michael Shope (senior wide receiver), Andrew Sloan nior). “We are looking forward to competing in every (junior wide receiver), Hayden Dalrymple (senior tight game,” Spann said. “We’ve got to stay away from Returning defensive backs end), Ismeil Heard (senior wide receiver). turnovers and play smart.” Michael Shope (senior safety), Andre Sloan (junior Wellsville is hoping to build on its 21 wins over the cornerback), Ishmeil Heard (senior cornerback). Incoming offensive ends last three seasons. Blayke McCloud (junior tight end), Matt Rawson (juThe Tigers open the season with road games at Incoming defensive backs nior wide receiver), Brandon Patterson (junior tight end), Toronto and East Palestine, both state playoff teams Ryan Ingram (junior cornerback), Jayce Sloan (fresh- last season. Ricky Tice (junior tight end), Ryan Ingram (junior wide receiver), Cameron Cramer (junior tight end), Draven man cornerback), Cameren Grodhaus (freshman safety), “Our schedule is brutal,” Spann said. “We’ve got to Crow (freshman tight end), Chad Tice (freshman wide Jason Tice (freshman cornerback). play one game at a time and we want to make a run for receiver), Connor Ramsey (freshman wide receiver). the playoffs. Experience and attitude will be an asset.” 2015 Players honored Vinny Giordano (graduated), first-team All-Area. Returning offensive linemen Michael Shope, first-team All-Area. Skyder Delauder (senior tackle), Ryan Miller (junior Branzen Grodhaus, honorable mention All-Area. tackle), Justin Thirtyacre (sophomore center), Norman Hayden Dalrymple, honorable mention All-Area. Rudder (senior guard), Austin Carter (senior guard). Eric Sullivan (graduated), honorable mention AllGood Luck, Our Tigers! Area. Incoming offensive linemen Gage Ramos (sophomore guard), Jordan Spellick (se2015 Leaders nior guard), Mathew Stacy (junior tackle), Colten Green Rushing — Michael (sophomore tackle). Shope, 358 yards and three touchdowns; Vinny GiorReturning defensive linemen Nicholas T. Amato • Linsey Lyle-Opalnik Hayden Dalrymple (senior end), Skyler Delauder (se- dano, 283 yards and four • Joseph N. Phillips Branzen nior tackle), Norman Rudder (senior tackle), Justin touchdowns; Thirtyacre (sophomore tackle), Ryan Miller (junior Grodhaus, 202 yards and AUTO ACCIDENTS one touchdown. tackle). CRIMINAL DEFENSE Passing — Justin Miller, 492 yards and nine touchIncoming defensive linemen • General Practice • Felonies Ricky Tice (junior end), Brandon Patterson (junior downs. • Misdemeanors • DUI 1800 Clark Ave. Receiving —Branzen end), Daven Crow (freshman end), Jonathan Walker Practicing In Ohio & Pennsylvania 1151 Oakdale Dr.•Wellsville, OH Wellsville, OH. (freshman tackle), Brian Cunningham (freshman tackle), Grodhaus 27 catches for Ethan Ferguson (freshman end), Mathew Stacy (junior 176 yards (6.5) and one touchdown. tackle), Braden Cartwright (freshman tackle). back).
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WESTERN RESERVE BLUE DEVILS
44A • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
Morning Journal/Chris Rambo
Members of the 2016 Western Reserve football team are (front, from left) Aaron Jackson, Brandon Pierce, Nick Dagnan, Jimmy Mayberry, Cameron Durig, Christian Rowley, Marcos Cruz, Jacob Potts, Noah Kreitzburg, Todd Henning, Mason Nicora, Christian Stout; (second row, from left) Dallas Smith, Josh Miller, Lucky Kiesewetter, Hunter Kiesewetter, Ryan Demsky, Preston Reed; (third row, from left) Adam Gatrell, Josh Clark, Kade Hilles, Chase Dodd, Dominic Velasquez, coach Russ Hake, head coach Andy Hake, coach Andrew Whitmer, team chaplain Russ Libb, Ryan Musch, Caleb Quinn, Jack Cappabianca, Joey Clegg; (fourth row, from left) Luke Kilbert, Cody Wise, Matt Henry, Brycen Jackson, Austin Seifert, Wyatt Larimer, Karl Klockenga, coach Bob Guyan, Sam Kriebel, Mathew Nicastro, Gavin Jackson, Ryan Slaven; (back, from left Nate Salovich, Cody Hladun, Brandon Jarvis, coach Joe Stevens, C.J. Quinn, coach Jason Cochran, coach Brett Powell, coach Damon Buente, Cody Hilles, coach Ed Anthony, Tyler Fortunato, Aaron Posten and Jacob Moore.
High expectations at W. Reserve Classification Division VI, Region, 21
Head Coach Andy Hake enters his eighth season as head coach with a record of 72-14. He 2015 Record was previously an offensive coordinator 8-3, including the outright Inter-Tri for Youngstown East and Rayen for three County League Blue Division title with a seasons and an offensive coordinator for mark of 5-0. The Blue Devils were Mineral Ridge for six seasons. ranked 16th in the Division VI state poll. They have made the playoffs eight Assistant coaches straight seasons. Jason Cochran, defensive coordinator Andrew Whitmer, wide receivers, linebackers Brett Powell, offensive line, defensive line 2016 SCHEDULE Damon Buente, running backs, defenAll games start at 7 p.m., sive backs, strength and conditioning Aug. 26 Columbiana Ed Anthony, offensive coordinator, deSept. 2 at South Range fensive backs, quarterbacks Sept. 10 at Steubenville Central Joe Stevens, offensive line, defensive Sept. 16 at Springfield Sept. 23 Wellsville line Sept. 30 at Lowellville Returning lettermen Oct. 7 McDonald Twenty. Oct. 14 Jackson-Milton Oct. 21 Oct. 28
at Mineral Ridge at Sebring
Basic offensive formation Multiple.
(senior). Offensive outlook “We are cautiously optimistic regarding the offensive side of the ball,” Hake Incoming offensive backs said. “We return seven starters and many Dom Velasquez (junior), Adam Gatrell returnees that have gained quality varsity (sophomore), Brandon Jarvis, Marcos experience. We feel with our experience Cruz (senior), Joey Clegg (junior). and ability, we should be able to move the ball consistently.” Returning offensive ends Kade Hilles (junior), Ryan Demsky (juBasic defensive formation nior), Wyatt Larimer (senior). 3-5 Blitz. Incoming offensive ends Defensive outlook Caleb Quinn (sophomore), Joey Clegg “Our defense is young, fast, inexperi- (junior), Austin Jenkins (junior), Noah enced and loyal,” Hake said. “We will de- Kreitzburg (junior). velop as the year goes on and become a unit that is a credit to our tradition. We Returning offensive linemen will need a little time to grow, mature and Cody Hilles (senior), C.J. Quinn (sedevelop, but time is something we don’t nior), Rob Hively (junior), Matt Henry have with a tough early schedule.” (sophomore). Returning offensive backs Wyatt Larimer (senior quarterback), Jack Cappabianca (junior running back), Karl Klockenga (senior), Austin Siefert
Incoming offensive linemen Dallas Smith (junior), Brycen Jackson See
RESERVE, Page 45A
MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 45A
RESERVE, Continued from Page 44A
(sophomore), Ryan Musch (junior), Cody Hladun (junior), Tyler Fortunato (junior). Returning defensive linemen Cody Hilles (senior), Rob Hively (junior), C.J. Quinn (senior). Incoming defensive linemen Dallas Smith (junior), Brycen Jackson (sophomore), Ryan Musch (junior), Tyler Fortunato (junior), Cody Hladun (junior). Returning linebackers Jack Cappabianca (junior), Austin Seifert (senior). Incoming linebackers Joey Clegg (junior), Aaron Posten (junior), Marcos Cruz (senior), Brandon Jarvis, Ryan Slaven (sophomore), Jimmy Mayberry. Returning defensive backs Karl Klockenga (senior), Wyatt Larimer (senior), Kade Hilles (junior). Incoming defensive backs Ryan Demsky (junior), Adam Gatrell (sophomore), Todd Henning, Mason Nicora (sophomore), Noah Kreitzburg (junior). 2015 Players honored Greg Brunner (graduated), special mention Division VI AllOhio. Cody Hilles, special mention Division VI All-Ohio. 2015 Leaders Rushing — Wyatt Larimer, 663 yards and nine touchdowns on 132 carries (5.0); Jack Cappabianca, 451 yards and seven touchdowns on 72 carries (6.3); Ted Smith (graduated) 423 yards and five touchdowns on 68 carries (6.2). Passing — Wyatt Larimer completed 86 of 158 passes (57 percent) for 1,241 yards and 12 touchdowns with three interceptions; Dom Velasquez com-
Morning Journal/Patti Schaeffer
Western Reserve running back Jack Cappabianca (left) tries to get away from Columbiana’s Tucker Cope last season. Western Reserve quarterback Wyatt Larimer (right) runs a keeper against Columbiana’s Connor Stacey.
pleted 21 passes for 306 yards and four touchdowns. Receiving — Kade Hilles, 26 catches for 287 yards (11.0) and two touchdowns; Jeep DiCioccio, 16 catches for 341 yards (21.3) and four touchdowns; Greg Brunner (graduated) 14 catches for 137 yards (9.7) and one touchdown. Scoring — Wyatt Larimer 67 points; Jack Cappabianca 46; Ted Smith (graduated) 46. Tackles — T.J. Henry (graduated) 58; Ted Smith (graduated) 56. Interceptions — Ted Smith (graduated) 3; Jeep
DiCioccio 2. 2016 Outlook The faces may change, but the expectations remain the same at Western Reserve, which has won 33 of its last 34 league games. “With only five seniors we must mature quickly and this team must find its true grit,” Hake said. “We expect and demand our team to compete for both league and regional championships. However, we set out to work as always with the belief that higher goals are attainable, because belief makes you dangerous.”
Western Reserve coach Andy Hake
46A • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
2015 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PLAYOFFS WEEK 15 STATE FINALS at Ohio Stadium, Columbus DIVISION I No. 1 Lakewood St. Edward 45, No. 2 Huber Heights Wayne 35 ——— DIVISION II No. 4 Cincinnati La Salle 42, No. 10 Massillon Perry 0 ——— DIVISION III No. 3 Akron Hoban 33, No. 7Toledo Central Catholic 20 ——— DIVISION IV No. 11 Columbus Bishop Hartley 31, No. 2 Steubenville 28 ——— DIVISION V No. 1Coldwater 35, No. 13 Canton Central Catholic 18 ——— DIVISION VI No. 4 Kirtland 22, No. 1 Maria Stein Marion Local 20 ——— DIVISION II No. 8 Fort Recovery 33, No. 2 Mogadore 13 ——— WEEK 14 STATE SEMIFINALS DIVISION I Huber Heights Wayne 28, Cincinnati Colerain 21 Lakewood St. Edward 45, Stow-Munroe Falls 7 ——— DIVISION II Cincinnati La Salle 28, Perrysburg 21 Massillon Perry 10, Hudson 7 ——— DIVISION III Akron Hoban 26, Zanesville 14 Trotwood-Madison 31, Toledo Central Catholic 13 ——— DIVISION IV Columbus Hartley 26, Middletown Fenwick 14 Steubenville 28, Youngstown Ursuline 0 ——— DIVISION V Canton Central Catholic 17, Milan Edison 14 Coldwater 36, Wheelersburg 6 ——— DIVISION VI Kirtland 13, Columbus Grandview Heights 9 Maria Stein Marion Local 34, Defiance Tinora 10 ——— DIVISION VII Mogadore 35, Danville 21 Fort Recovery 35, McComb 14 ——— WEEK 13 REGIONAL FINALS DIVISION I Cincinnati Colerain 41, Cincinnati Elder 11 Huber Hts. Wayne 20, Hilliard Davidson 6 Lakewood St. Edward 33, Euclid 0 Stow-Munroe Falls 38, Lewis Center Olentangy 16 DIVISION II Cincinnati La Salle 42, Kings Mills Kings 7 Hudson 31, Mayfield 6 Massillon Perry 28, Worthington Kilbourne 7 Perrysburg 50, Cleveland Glenville 19 DIVISION III Akron Hoban 24, Akron St. Vincent-St. Mary 21 Toledo Central Cath. 31, Cleveland Benedictine 30,
2OT Trotwood-Madison 33, Wapakoneta 3 Zanesville 38, Jackson 21 DIVISION IV Columbus Hartley 28, Bellevue 20 Middletown Fenwick 10, Clarksville Clinton-Massie 3, OT Steubenville 42, Johnstown-Monroe 7 Youngstown Ursuline 41, Mantua Crestwood 13 DIVISION V Canton Central Cath. 33, Columbiana Crestview 6 Coldwater 31, Brookville 13 Milan Edison 70, Doylestown Chippewa 37 Wheelersburg 31, Chillicothe Zane Trace 0 DIVISION VI Columbus Grandview Hts. 25, Fredericktown 14 Defiance Tinora 44, Van Buren 14 Kirtland 34, Cuyahoga Hts. 13 Maria Stein Marion Local 9, Mechanicsburg 7 DIVISION VII Danville 44, Caldwell 34 Ft. Recovery 33, Minster 21 McComb 36, Lucas 6 Mogadore 35, Warren JFK 7 ——— WEEK 12 REGIONAL SEMIFINALS DIVISION I Cin. Colerain 42, Cin. St. Xavier 14 Cin. Elder 41, Hilliard Darby 13 Euclid 49, Westerville Cent. 24 Hilliard Davidson 17, Cols. Upper Arlington 10 Huber Hts. Wayne 52, Springboro 21 Lakewood St. Edward 34, Mentor 10 Lewis Center Olentangy 24, Tol. Whitmer 21 Stow-Munroe Falls 24, Solon 15 DIVISION II Avon 48, Perrysburg 21 Cincinnati. La Salle 49, Lima Sr. 13 Cleveland Glenville 27, Grafton Midview 14 Hudson 35, Macedonia Nordonia 14 Kings Mills Kings 47, Cin. Turpin 13 Massillon Perry 40, Dresden Tri-Valley 14 Mayfield 23, Warren Harding 21 Worthington Kilbourne 17, Pataskala Licking Hts. 14 DIVISION III Akron Hoban 21, Louisville 14 Akron St. Vincent-St. Mary 42, Chesterland W. Geauga 0 Cleveland Benedictine 31, Bay Village Bay 10 Jackson 14, Cols. Watterson 0 Toledo Cent. Cath. 35, Clyde 25 Trotwood-Madison 33, Tipp City Tippecanoe 19 Wapakoneta 12, Cincinnati Mt. Healthy 7 Zanesville 9, Columbus DeSales 3 DIVISION IV Bellevue 28, Spring. Kenton Ridge 21 Clarksville Clinton-Massie 40, Cin. Indian Hill 34 Cols. Hartley 42, Ottawa-Glandorf 14 Johnstown-Monroe 42, St. Clairsville 38 Mantua Crestwood 40, Parma Hts. Holy Name 23 Middletown Fenwick 19, Kettering Alter 9 Steubenville 46, Salem 7 Youngs. Ursuline 27, Peninsula Woodridge 20 DIVISION V Brookville 49, Jamestown Greeneview 7 Canton Central Catholic 38, Magnolia Sandy Valley 7 Chillicothe Zane Trace 34, Albany Alexander 21 Coldwater 44, Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy 14 Columbiana Crestview 27, Leavittsburg LaBrae 7 Doylestown Chippewa 28, Rossford 21
Milan Edison 17, Swanton 15 Wheelersburg 42, W. Lafayette Ridgewood 21 DIVISION VI Cols. Grandview Hts. 14, Lucasville Valley 6 Cuyahoga Hts. 21, Smithville 20, OT Defiance Tinora 28, N. Robinson Col. Crawford 23 Fredericktown 29, Bainbridge Paint Valley 28 Kirtland 27, Brookfield 17 Maria Stein Marion Local 34, W. Liberty-Salem 0 Mechanicsburg 42, Delphos Jefferson 12 Van Buren 29, Delta 28 DIVISION VII Caldwell 40, Glouster Trimble 19 Danville 38, Canal Winchester Harvest Prep 20 Fort Recovery 20, Sidney Lehman 3 Lucas 44, Tiffin Calvert 35 McComb 35, Leipsic 12 Minster 21, DeGraff Riverside 6 Mogadore 28, Norwalk St. Paul 0 Warren JFK 40, Toronto 6 ——— WEEK 11 REGIONAL QUARTERFINALS DIVISION I Cin. Colerain 53, Dublin Coffman 7 Cin. Elder 50, Fairfield 42 Cin. St. Xavier 28, Gahanna Lincoln 14 Cols. Upper Arlington 27, Pickerington Cent. 17 Euclid 28, Austintown Fitch 7 Hilliard Darby 17, Lancaster 10 Hilliard Davidson 17, Grove City Cent. Crossing 9 Huber Hts. Wayne 56, Reynoldsburg 14 Lakewood St. Edward 20, Cle. Hts. 12 Lewis Center Olentangy 31, Elyria 21 Mentor 41, Can. Glenoak 13 Solon 19, Powell Olentangy Liberty 9 Springboro 42, Mason 21 Stow-Munroe Falls 57, Berea-Midpark 34 Tol. Whitmer 55, Canton McKinley 27 Westerville Cent. 49, Tol. Start 30 DIVISION II Avon 49, Medina Highland 20 Cin. La Salle 52, Vandalia Butler 14 Cin. Turpin 38, Cin. Glen Este 7 Cle. Glenville 56, Holland Springfield 28 Dresden Tri-Valley 27, Boardman 2 Grafton Midview 56, Olmsted Falls 35 Hudson 45, Copley 20 Kings Mills Kings 35, Ashville Teays Valley 7 Lima Sr. 44, Miamisburg 42, OT Macedonia Nordonia 39, Aurora 37 Massillon Perry 35, Mansfield Sr. 0 Mayfield 22, Chardon 10 Pataskala Licking Hts. 27, Wooster 0 Perrysburg 35, N. Ridgeville 0 Warren Harding 31, Madison 20 Worthington Kilbourne 15, Uniontown Lake 14 DiIVISION III Akron Hoban 35, New Philadelphia 21 Akron St. Vincent-St. Mary 49, Canfield 28 Bay Village Bay 31, Ashland 21 Chesterland W. Geauga 35, Medina Buckeye 28, 3OT Cin. Mt. Healthy 46, New Richmond 27 Cle. Benedictine 41, Bowling Green 14 Clyde 21, Sandusky Perkins 17 Cols. DeSales 56, Chillicothe 7 Cols. Watterson 28, Cols. Hamilton Twp. 3 Jackson 49, Cols. Bexley 14 Louisville 42, Poland Seminary 7 Tipp City Tippecanoe 37, Piqua 12 Tol. Cent. Cath. 37, Rocky River 23
27
Trotwood-Madison 44, Celina 14 Wapakoneta 44, Day. Belmont 22 Zanesville 13, Cols. Beechcroft 7 DIVISION IV Bellevue 18, Wauseon 0 Cin. Indian Hill 31, Cin. Wyoming 14 Clarksville Clinton-Massie 70, Cin. Taft 14 Cols. Hartley 58, Port Clinton 25 Johnstown-Monroe 35, Byesville Meadowbrook 22 Kettering Alter 52, Reading 17 Mantua Crestwood 42, Cortland Lakeview 21 Middletown Fenwick 14, Hamilton Badin 7 Ottawa-Glandorf 23, Lewistown Indian Lake 15 Parma Hts. Holy Name 50, Perry 43 Peninsula Woodridge 42, Oberlin Firelands 7 Salem 21, Gnadenhutten Indian Valley 6 Spring. Kenton Ridge 33, Plain City Jonathan Alder 28 St. Clairsville 22, Newark Licking Valley 3 Steubenville 40, Wintersville Indian Creek 0 Youngs. Ursuline 13, Chardon NDCL 3 DIVISION V Albany Alexander 37, Ironton Rock Hill 7 Brookville 41, Carlisle 0 Can. Cent. Cath. 52, Gates Mills Hawken 14 Chillicothe Zane Trace 34, Bidwell River Valley 0 Cin. Hills Christian Academy 49, Richwood N. Union
Coldwater 42, Bethel-Tate 0 Columbiana Crestview 56, Burton Berkshire 36 Doylestown Chippewa 42, Millbury Lake 35 Jamestown Greeneview 35, Milton-Union 34 Leavittsburg LaBrae 42, Orwell Grand Valley 7 Magnolia Sandy Valley 28, E. Palestine 14 Milan Edison 49, Galion 28 Rossford 36, Creston Norwayne 35 Swanton 38, Apple Creek Waynedale 28 W. Lafayette Ridgewood 13, Cadiz Harrison Cent. 10 Wheelersburg 38, Ironton 7 DIVISION VI Bainbridge Paint Valley 21, Newark Cath. 20, OT Cols. Grandview Hts. 56, Hannibal River 15 Cuyahoga Hts. 28, Columbiana 21 Defiance Tinora 48, Attica Seneca E. 6 Delphos Jefferson 24, Spencerville 10 Delta 21, Bucyrus Wynford 15 Fredericktown 13, Beverly Ft. Frye 0 Kirtland 49, Berlin Center Western Reserve 0 Brookfield 39, Lisbon 28 Lucasville Valley 23, Chesapeake 0 Maria Stein Marion Local 48, Casstown Miami E. 23 Mechanicsburg 48, Williamsburg 14 N. Robinson Col. Crawford 42, Defiance Ayersville 10 Smithville 31, Columbia Station Columbia 0 Van Buren 45, Gibsonburg 16 W. Liberty-Salem 21, Cin. Country Day 7 DIVISION VII Caldwell 55, Portsmouth Sciotoville 8 Canal Winchester Harvest Prep 21, Belpre 19 Danville 63, Crown City S. Gallia 0 DeGraff Riverside 32, Ada 7 Ft. Recovery 62, Miami Valley Christian Academy 34 Glouster Trimble 17, Shadyside 14 Leipsic 35, Arlington 3 Lucas 51, W. Unity Hilltop 6 McComb 27, Convoy Crestview 21 Minster 37, Ft. Loramie 7 Mogadore 63, N. Jackson Jackson-Milton 20 Norwalk St. Paul 28, Monroeville 6 Sidney Lehman 20, Covington 16 Tiffin Calvert 42, Hicksville 35, 2OT Toronto 49, Vienna Mathews 7 Warren JFK 28, Sandusky St. Mary 7
MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 47A
48A • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
Toronto back for another playoff run By AARON PETCHAL Special to the Journal
TORONTO — Last season, Toronto not only returned to the playoffs, but the Red Knights hosted a playoff game for the first time at Clarke Hinkle Field. Fourth-seeded Toronto defeated fifth-seeded Mathews, 49-7, before falling to top-seeded Warren JFK, 40-6, in the regional semifinals at Austintown to cap its season at 10-2. “Last year, we were very dominant at times,” said Toronto head coach Eric Meek, an East Palestine High School graduate. “We really played well around the middle of the season. We kept getting better. I thought we peaked in Weeks 8, 9, 10 and 11. We did not play very well against JFK in Round 2. I thought we played very well in the opening week of the playoffs. “I thought we had hit our stride. I have a lot of respect for JFK. I thought we could win the game. I expected us to win the game, but we just did not play well. We are going to take that loss and try to learn from it and try to improve. We had a great season last year, and we are hoping to have another great season again this year.” Toronto only lost eight seniors from last year’s team, but many of them were key contributors to the team. “Last year, we had a special group,” Meek said. “There was only eight of them, but they were a special group. They had a lot of athletic ability. They
contributed a lot to our football team. We are going to miss them. They were great leaders. They were leaders and they were good players. They helped build the culture of our program. They were the leaders of the team, and this year’s seniors are going to have to carry on what they started. They are going to have to show the way for the younger kids.” This season, the Red Knights return 14 starters/lettermen from last season’s squad. “We have a lot of experience back,” Meek said. “Our offensive line is very strong. We just need to keep getting better. We are very strong on our offensive and defensive lines. We have got some good skill people back. Football is a funny game. You have to be consistent. We want to play really fast, we want to play really hard, we want to be really physical, we want to get better and we want to stay healthy. That is important for all Division VII teams. Our numbers are good. We are in the mid-40s. That is a solid number for a school our size.” Nine of Toronto’s 10 wins last season were by margins of 36 points or more. As a result, the Red Knights younger players were able to see a good amount of playing time throughout the course of the season. “We have a good amount of experience coming back,” Meek said. “There is two ways of looking at that. The downside is we were in a lot of mercy-rule games. We were up big in a lot of
“The kids have had a lot of success. We have made the playoffs the last two seasons.” ERIC MEEK, TORONTO HEAD COACH
games, and the games went by fast. We were able to get a lot of kids playing time, but in a lot of games the second half went by quickly. We also pulled our first team early in those games, and maybe they did not get the experience they needed. “We were tremendous on defense. We shut a lot of teams down. Offensively, we scored a lot of points. We would like to be able to do that again this season. Our special teams were solid. Our defense was the best defensive team that I have seen in all of my years coaching. “Offensively, we ran the ball well, and threw the ball well. We did not have a lot of turnovers, and we made plays. That is what you have to do. We want to play fast, and we want to play physical. We want to play mistake free football. If we do that, we will be successful.” Toronto played three quarterbacks last season, but the top two — Blaine Rawson and Blaze Glenn — both graduated in the spring. Rawson was the
team’s starting and primary signal caller. Rawson threw for 1,200 yards and 12 touchdowns last season, while also amassing 163 yards and three touchdowns on the ground. Glenn finished the season with a team-high 1,299 all-purpose yards, a team-high 16 touchdowns and a team-high 106 points. This season, sophomore Nate Karaffa will be the starting quarterback and freshman Zach Stackhouse will be the backup. Karaffa will have a talented group of running back to hand the ball off to this season. Leading the way are seniors Max Tice, who led the team with 781 yards and nine touchdowns on the ground last season, and Danny Zdinak, who rushed for 421 yards and three touchdowns. Senior Thomas Fordham and junior Juston Patterson are also in the mix. Others also competing for time are Andre Roach, Spencer Higgs, Jesse Fulton, Kyre Smith and Frank Fulton. Seniors Joe Obrien and Danny Braniff are leading
the way at fullback. Others also competing for time there are Jon Patterson, Dylan Bozica, Zach Berger and Tristan Thomas. Junior Jake Keenan will be the team’s X. Others vying for time there are Chase Cooper, Judge Hall and Brendan Matyas. Senior Ty West — the defending state runner-up in the Division III 200meter dash — will be the team’s Z, and Zdinak will also see time there. Others competing for time at the position are Nate Keenan and Kobe Herrick. West caught 18 passes for 618 yards (34.3 yards per catch) and eight touchdowns. West also scored two touchdowns on the ground, he returned two interceptions for touchdowns and he also returned a kick off for a touchdown. West finished the season with 940 all-purpose yards, 13 touchdowns and 80 points. Senior Joven Householder and sophomore Carson Meek are in heavy competition at the tight end spot. Nick Sninchak and Travis Hill are also vying for time. “We will use a lot of double-tight formations,” Meek said. Senior Dylan Warren and junior Avery Watkins are in heavy competition at the center position. Junior Luke Fogle, sophomore Trent Wright and senior Dustin Henry are in heavy competition for the two starting guard spots. Seniors Griffin Allison and Ben Davis are the top two guys at tackle. Others competing for time are Justin Haynes, Cole DeGarmo, Kanne Larkins,
Roger Scott, D’Andre Thompson, Shane Van Steenberg and RJ Batson. On the other side of the ball, Davis, Fogle and Henry are in heavy competition at the defensive tackle position. Allison and Householder are the team’s top two defensive ends. Braniff, Obrien and Wright are in competition at inside linebacker. Tice, Fordham and Juston Patterson are in heavy competition at outside linebacker. West and Jake Keenan are the team’s top two cornerbacks and Zdinak and Karaffa are the top two safeties. “The kids have had a lot of success,” Meek said. “We have made the playoffs the last two seasons. The kids have played in a lot of games. We have a lot of size. Our defense is going to be quick. We have lost some quickness from last year’s team, but we have a great group coming back. We have some veryfast kids. We also have a great coaching staff. We have had a lot of stability with the coaching staff in the last seven years. They are a great group of coaches, but they are also great people. I could not do this job without them.” Zdinak will handle the kicking duties for Toronto. Zdinak, West, Tice, Fordham and Jake Keenan will return kicks and punts. Toronto will open the season at Wellsville on Aug. 26. It will be a preview of a future league rivalry as Toronto will join Wellsville in the new Eastern Ohio Athletic Conference next season.
MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 49A
CRESTVIEW’S LINE, Continued from Page 9A
Morning Journal/Ron Firth
Crestview defensive end Jordan Murphy, a Bowling Green State University recruit, closes in on Berkshire quarterback Gordy Cossick in the Rebels’ first-round Division V playoff win last year.
Morning Journal/Ron Firth
Crestview senior Jack Davis (70), shown tackling Berkshire’s Jarrett Young in a first-round playoff game last year, is a three-year starter on the Rebels’ defensive line.
they all played young,” Crestview coach Paul Cusick said. “They’ve gotten a lot of reps together and they have great speed. That’s a great combination.” The one everyone’s eyes will be on, of course, is Murphy. At 6-foot-4 and 240 pounds, his combination of size and athleticism creates a nightmare mismatch for many area teams. “Obviously Jordan’s a big, athletic player, but what really stands out is his nonstop motor,” Cusick said. “He plays sideline-to-sideline and plays 100 miles per hour all the time. I remember him running down backs from the opposite sideline very early in his career. That’s when we knew we had another gear.” Murphy dealt with an almost constant stream of double teams last season and knows the attention will only increase. After spending the summer refining his technique at various camps, he heads into the season confident he can deal with whatever is thrown his way. “The camps really helped me perfect the stuff I had trouble with as far as dealing with double teams,” Murphy said. “I’m not exactly sure what I’m going to see from other teams. Right now I’m just focused on making sure I do my job.” In order to further exploit mismatches and take advantage of Murphy’s playmaking ability, the Rebels plan on using him in a hybrid defensive end/linebacker role at times this season.
“I think it will help free myself up from a lot of double teams and it will hopefully confuse other teams because I won’t always be lined up in the same spot,” Murphy said. Murphy may be the star, but his linemates have proved to be fine players in their own right. Davis has been starting up front with Murphy for the last three seasons. At 5-foot-10 and 237 pounds, he is someone more than capable of clogging the lane and making impact plays. “It’s a great time playing next to Jordan and those other guys,” Davis said. “We have a great chemistry. We’re all hard workers and have been best friends for as long as I can remember.” According to Cusick, Davis is someone who repeatedly pops up when the coaches review film. “Jack is someone who it seems like is making plays every time you watch film,” Cusick said. “He’s a guy who’s always been under the radar, but he’s a really good player in his own right.” As a sophomore, Talbert kept picking up steam as last season wore on and is looking to make another big leap forward this season. “My mentality has really improved from last season,” Talbert said. “It was scary at first starting for the first time, but once I got used to it I became much more confident and became a much better player.” “In the second half of last season, you really saw Landon’s growth,” Cusick
said. “He’s a wrestler and is perfect for defensive tackle. He’s a kid that has untapped potential.” On the other side of the line, Cusick feels Meredith and Woodring both posess the ideal combo of size and quickness, making them a good fit alongside the three returnees. “Both Kade and Wyatt run well, they’re good compliments to Jordan on the other side of the line,” Cusick said. “Kade has had some prior experience as a sophomore and junior, while Wyatt is a little more physical.” Both players are eager to step in and show what they can do alongside the other players. “I want to work to get to a point where I am as good as they are or even better,” Woodring said. “I learned as a freshman last year to always go out there with a good mentality.” “I had some experience last year, so I fell pretty comfortable,” Meredith said. “It helps because we’re all great friends, we kind of feed off each other.” The Rebels line saved one of its best performances for late last season when they helped stifle a big-play LaBrae offense in Crestview’s 27-7 second round playoff win. With Crestview breaking in new starters at quarterback and running back, they know they will be counted on to make a big impact. “We want to help try and set the tone,” Talbert said. “One of our goals is to lead the whole defense in tackles.”
50A • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
Submitted photo
South Range’s Rominger Sports Complex added an artificial playing surface this year. The Raider football team practices there now. The district is aiming for an addition of bleachers, lights and a scoreboard within the next year so the Raider football team can permanently move its home games away from Memorial Stadium behind the old high school in North Lima.
MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 51A
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52A • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
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2B • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
CREDITS T HE M ORNING J OURNAL’ S 2016 F OOTBALL P REVIEW WAS COMPILED BY SPORTS WRITERS R ON F IRTH , M ICHAEL B URICH , C HRIS R AMBO AND J OE C ATULLO AND PHOTOGRAPHERS PATTI S CHAEFFER AND WAYNE M ARIS .
MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 3B
Time for seniors to shine ... again By CHRIS RAMBO
“The last two seasons were big confidence boosters for us.”
Staff Writer
EAST LIVERPOOL — For most high school players their senior season represents the culmination of all the work they’ve put in the past several years. For those not moving on to play in college, the next few months are the final time they have a chance to take the field in front of their family and friends. Some of the area’s top seniors know the clock is ticking and head into the season determined to make it count. “I want to go out there this season and play every game like it’s my last,” Wellsville senior Michael Shope said. “I’ve never been to the playoffs before and I’d love to go in my last season.” Shope missed out on the Tigers’ playoff appearances in 2013 and 2014 while playing at rival Southern Local. He moved to Wellsville last season and emerged as a versatile threat for the Tigers, making 53 tackles and five interceptions at cornerback, while also chipping in 358 yards and three touchdowns on offense as the Tigers shook off a slow start to finish 55. “My first year at Wellsville was great,” Shope said. “I found the end zone for the first time since junior high in the first game against Toronto, it was an amazing feeling.” This season, Shope said he will shift from corner to free safety in order to give him more space to make plays as he hopes to help the Tigers back to the
TERRY ADKINS, BEAVER LOCAL LINEMAN
“I’ve never been to the playoffs before and I’d love to go in my last season.” MICHAEL SHOPE, WELLSVILLE SAFETY
Morning Journal/Wayne Maris
Pictured on the cover of the Morning Journal’s Football Preview are (from left) Oak Glen’s Dakota Price, Wellsville’s Michael Shope, Beaver Local’s Terry Adkins and East Liverpool’s Austin Mayfield.
Division VII state playoffs after a one-year absence. “I’m excited, at free safety you get to play all over the field,” Shope said. “Coach (Derrick) Spann does a good job of putting our athletes in the right spots to make plays. We all think its going to be a pretty good year.” East Liverpool senior quarterback Austin Mayfield is not only motivated to help the Potters take another step forward after a 3-7 record last season, he is also eager to showcase his passing ability as the Potters unveil a new uptempo spread passing attack. “I’m really liking the
new offense so far,” Mayfield said. “It’s definitely a change for me because we’ve normally been a grind-it-out offense, but I think we are going to surprise some people this year.” Last season Mayfield passed for 512 yards and five touchdowns, numbers that figure to go up as the Potters prepare to air the ball out. He also contributed 424 rushing yards before his season ended with a broken hand against Buckeye Local in week eight. “I’ve always been able to throw the ball,” Mayfield said. “Last year was actually a change for me to run more than usual.
Overall, I’ve gotten a lot better at managing myself in the pocket, which should help me this year.” Oak Glen senior running back Dakota Price set a high bar for himself last season when he ran for a single-season school record 1,738 yards as the Golden Bears finished 46. “At the start of the season, I had about 1,100 to 1,200 yards in mind,” Price said. “I never thought the season would turn out like it did.” Price hopes to fly even higher this season under new head coach Ted Arneault Jr., who takes over for Ian Whittington.
“Coach Whittington was an awesome person to play for and we had some good times,” Price said. “But I’m excited to play for coach Arneault, he knows what he’s talking about. We’re going to try and open things up a little more on offense, which should take some pressure off me.” Price said he has his sights set on a 2,000-yard season and the career rushing record at Oak Glen, but also said he would trade all of that for some more wins. “Definitely I’d rather win more games,” Price said. “Our biggest goal has always been to improve our record and try to
make it back to the playoffs.” Beaver Local senior guard Terry Adkins has gotten used to paving the way for star running back Robbie Johnston as the Beavers have posted backto-back solid seasons the last two years. “Our goal is still the same as last year,” Adkins said. “We want to keep improving and keep trying to get the program turned around. The last two seasons were big confidence boosters for us.” Johnston has graduated, but Adkins returns to anchor a line that should be one of the Beavers’ primary strengths with 280pounders Zack Thomas and Andrew Gibson returning at tackle and center respectively. “It should be fun, we have a lot of good players back and we have a lot of size on the left side of our line,” Adkins said. “I’ve dropped a little bit of weight and I feel a lot stronger and faster this year.”
4B • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
Now starting at QB: Mitch Davidson By RON FIRTH Sports Editor
High school football fans are going to hear a lot about Mitch Davidson this fall — both of them. Columbiana senior Mitch Davidson and Salem junior Mitch Davidson are the starting quarterbacks for their respective schools, which are only a few miles apart. “Knowing that he’s going to be the quarterback this year kind of gives me a little laugh — at the two Mitch Davidsons in the area,” Columbiana’s Mitch Davidson said. “I never knew of a Mitch around until I heard him mentioned and his last name was Davidson, too, it’s kind of weird,” Salem’s Mitch Davidson said. “I tried to see if we’re related, but we’re not.” They played in the same church youth basketball league in Salem a halfdozen years ago, but hadn’t really talked to each other until getting together for this story. “When we were younger, we got mixed up in the hospital, so I’ve known who he is,” Columbiana’s Mitch Davidson said. “I went to therapy the other day,” Salem’s Mitch Davidson said. “This lady is from Columbiana, she goes, ‘Are you from Columbiana?’ I said, ‘Wrong Mitch Davidson.” Not that being mistaken for Columbiana’s Mitch
Morning Journal/Patti Schaeffer
Salem’s Mitch Davidson (14) and Columbiana’s Mitch Davidson (2) aren’t related, just starting quarterbacks with the same name.
“I went to therapy the other day. This lady is from Columbiana, she goes, ‘Are you from Columbiana?’ I said, ‘Wrong Mitch Davidson.”
“Knowing that he’s going to be the quarterback this year kind of gives me a little laugh — at the two Mitch Davidsons in the area.”
SALEM’S MITCH DAVIDSON
COLUMBIANA’S MITCH DAVIDSON
Davidson is a bad thing. He was a first-team Division VI All-Ohioan last season after passing for a Columbiana Countyrecord 2,735 yards and 30 touchdowns and running for 1,137 yards and 16 more touchdowns. In 30 career starts for the Clippers, he has thrown for 6,127 yards, already the most in county history, and accounted for 98 touchdowns. “I definitely look up to
him,” Salem’s Mitch Davidson said. “I’ve heard a lot about him. I’m thinking how am I going to match those (stats). The numbers he is putting up are ridiculous.” Columbiana and Salem both made the playoffs last season, but Salem’s Mitch Davidson will be making his first start at quarterback at East Palestine on Friday. He will replace three-year starter Matt Weingart, who
passed for 1,538 yards and 22 touchdowns last season in leading the Quakers to a 10-2 record — their most wins since 1929. “I’ve got big shoes to fill stepping in for Matt,” Salem’s Mitch Davidson said. “He did a great job last year.” The two Mitch Davidsons haven’t gotten to see their namesake play because their games are on the same nights. Each
makes it a point to keep track of the other in the newspaper. “For sure,” Columbiana’s Mitch Davidson said. “I’ve seen he is a good athlete in every sport he’s been in.” The only chance they would get to see each other play this year is in the last week of the regular season when Columbiana plays at Leetonia on Oct. 28 and Salem goes to West
Branch the next day. Until then, it will be fun to follow both Mitch Davidsons, the starting quarterbacks for their teams in neighboring communities. “I’ve never seen that happen that I know of, but I’m sure it has,” Columbiana’s Mitch Davidson said. “It’s something to look forward to this year.” Imagine what it would have been like if they played each other this season? “I think it would be cool if we did,” Columbiana’s Mitch Davidson said. “It definitely would be a great headline.”
MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 5B
Bears are betting on Arneault By JOE CATULLO Staff Writer
NEW CUMBERLAND, W. Va. — For the past three months at Oak Glen High School, new football head coach Ted Arneault Jr. has been getting used to leading everybody on the field. Even with his father as the special teams coordinator beside him, Arneault Jr. is the man. He only gets a break when he visits Ted Arneault Sr. “When we go to visit, he’s the man of the house, and I can respect that,” Arneault Jr. said laughing. “Think about any family that works together in a business. It’s the same type of thing. Sometimes personal conversations carry over onto the field. We try to not let that happen. We’re pretty much business on the field. That’s the way it is.” Arneault Jr. was hired as head coach on May 11, taking over for Ian Whittington. Arneault Jr. served as Oak Glen’s offensive coordinator a season ago. The Golden Bears finished just 4-6. Arneault is in his first season as a high school head coach. The only other time he was a head coach was with Weirton Madonna’s junior varsity squad from 2006-10. His father was the defensive coordinator. Arneault has made stops as an assistant with Robert Morris University and Brooke and Weirton high schools over the years before heading to Oak Glen in 2015. Arneault and Whittington had the same vision for Oak Glen’s future. “I had a good talk with Ian Whittington,” he said. “We had an agreement on where we both saw the program heading. This is where I ended up, and I love it. I love the kids here. I love teaching here. It just worked out for me.” So far, Arneault’s transition from coordinator to head coach
Morning Journal/Joe Catullo
New Oak Glen head football coach Ted Arneault Jr. talks to his team in the preseason.
has been smooth. “Your role changes a little bit, but fundamentally the interactions I have with the kids is the same.,” he said. “It’s just that now I’m in charge of their final line of defense. There’s some pressure in that, but there’s also a lot of excitement that I can have an impact on their lives.” What also helps Arneault is his top two offensive players from last year return for their senior seasons. He has Dakota Price in the backfield once again. The four-year letterman ran for 1,750 yards in 2015. “To have a producer like that to come back, it tells how our offense was run last year, but it also tells us how much we can do better as far as capitalizing in the red zone, keeping it close and capitalizing on momentum,” Arneault said. Lance Collins returns as quarterback. He passed for 1,100 yards and a 60 percent completion rate last year. Stevie Cool returns as the starting fullback, while the receiving game will also look similar.
“Having Lance Collins back is also huge. We got some talented receivers back,” Arneault said. “We have some sophomores stepping up. Having other returners like Stevie Cool really helps. I’m looking forward to seeing it on the field.” Arneault is no stranger to coaching defense; that was his mission with Brooke in 2014. The Golden Bears defense has some holes to fill while learning a new method of tackling. “Defensively, we’re going back to the basics and becoming mentally sound,” Arneault said. “The last few years have been bend but don’t break. We’re teaching a new way of tackling that is different for the kids to help prevent concussions. I think it will also increase their performance on the field. They’ve been very receptive to it, and we’re looking forward to seeing how our defense performs on the field.” Arneault’s original prospect for arriving at Oak Glen was to be able to teach and coach. More than one year later, he hopes
what he has accomplished to this point will show on the field and spark the community a little brighter. “I think that our area has something to be proud of with this team with how (the team) committed themselves. They want to represent the community, so I’m proud of them for that,” he said.
Oak Glen notes
¯ Along with being the head coach, Arneault teaches psychology and history. His time is very limited but tries to work both out. “You have to make time efficient. One of the goals I made for myself this year is to use our time efficiently on and off the field,” Arneault said. “We’re trying to make time before, during and after practices to make sure we get to go home and get the tasks done that we need done.” ¯ Arneault graduated from Forest Hills Central High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He later graduated from the University of Michigan in 2005 with a
degree in political science. He then graduated from the Franciscan University of Steubenville in 2010 with a masters degree in educational administration. ¯ Whittington went 10-30 in his four seasons at Oak Glen before resigning on April 11. He coached the West Virginia team to the OVAC All-Star game victory last year. “The thing that impressed me about Ian is that he’s a great competitor,” Arneault said. “He’s one of the best strength and conditioning coaches I’ve been around. In some ways it’s a tough act to follow, but I have my style, and every coach does in fitting with their personality. That’s just the way it is right now.” ¯ Arneault said his father had to earn a spot on the coaching staff. Arneault Sr., the former chairman and chief executive officer at Mountaineer Race Track & Casino, went through coaching classes and proved he can still get it done. “Things are starting to slow down for him being semi-retired and working on some other projects,” Arneault Jr. said. “He wanted to be back on board. He’s built a nice relationship with the kids, and I’m looking forward to seeing what he can do at the high school level.” Arneault Jr. added that their relationship on the field differs from their personal and does not expect his father to be calling the shots any time soon. “I wouldn’t sit in a board meeting and tell him what to do just like he wouldn’t sit at a football practice and tell me what I should be doing,” Arneault Jr. said. “It’s one of those things where we respect each other’s abilities. There’s obviously some high-stressed situations in coaching, and we’ve done those for a long time. “We’ve done a great job together. It works out well. I think we’re a pretty good team.”
BEAVER LOCAL BEAVERS
6B • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
Morning Journal/Joe Catullo
Members of the 2016 Beaver Local football team are (front, from left) head coach Jeremy McElroy, Shane Wright, Tyler Conto, Jacob Pancake, David Mellinger, Ben Smith, Zach Milhorn, Terry Adkins, Logan Bouscher, Josh Smith, Noah West, coach Aaron West; (second row, from left) coach TJ Osbon, Clayton Gourley, Michael Young, Matt DeBacco, Garrett Morris, Michael Clendenning, Logan Hughes, Chris Yanni, Kobi Ream, Luke Call, coach Rich Shilling; (third row, from left) coach Charlie Dolnoisch, Ethan Lewis, Alex Saffell, Cade O’Rourke, Garrett Givens, Daniel Wirth, Donovan Garcia, Issac Ream, Damien Emmert, Jacob Kane, Andrew Solansky, coach Dan Kibler; (fourth row, from left) Alec Post, Nik Wukotich, Hunter Saltsman, Christian LeRussi, Torey Calio, Drew Theiss, Nate Rawson, Mitchell Grady, Shiquan Wofford, Tim Wirth; (back, from left) Westley Simons, Parker Summer, Zak Kestner, Michael Bock, Jacob Morgan, Zack Thomas, Eddie Pennicuff, Andrew Gibson, Jackson Lewis and Chad Mays. Not pictured is Andrew Shultz.
Beavers will have their chances Classification Division IV, Region 15
2016 SCHEDULE
All games start at 7 p.m., unless noted Aug. 26 Akron North Sept. 2 at West Branch Sept. 9 Wheeling Linsly Sept. 16 at Edison Sept. 23 at East Liverpool, 7:30 Sept. 30 Warrensville Heights Oct. 7 Buckeye Local Oct. 14 Indian Creek Oct. 21 at Martins Ferry Oct. 28 at Oak Glen
University (Pa.) in 2002-03 and at East 2015 Record 5-5, including a second-place finish in Palestine High School in 2001. the Buckeye 8 Athletic League North DiAssistant coaches vision with a 3-1 mark. The five wins Stephen Mercer came against teams that won a combined David Allen 13 games, while each of the five teams Ed Weidger the Beavers lost to won at least seven Charlie Dolnosich games. Aaron West Rich Wright Head Coach Dan Kibler Jeremy McElroy enters his fifth season Rich Shilling as head coach with a 15-25 record. He TJ Osbon was 1-29 in three seasons at Lisbon from Craig Voorhees 2008-10 and served as offensive line coach at Beaver Local in 2011. He also Returning lettermen was an assistant coach at Kettering FairTwenty, including four starters on ofmont High School from 2004-07, at Piqua High School in 2004, at California fense and six starters on defense.
Basic offensive formation Multiple spread sets. Offensive outlook The Beavers were dealt a blow when starting quarterback Luke Call suffered a season-ending knee injury in practice earlier this month. They will rely on a big offense line powered by top returnees in senior 240pounder Terry Adkins and junior 280pounders Zack Thomas and Andrew Gibson. “We look to be a balanced attack that spreads the ball around to our skill positions,” McElroy said. See BEAVERS, Page 7B
MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 7B
BEAVERS, Continued from Page 6B
Basic defensive formation Multiple 40 front.
(senior tackle), Parker Summers (junior tackle), Jacob Morgan (junior tackle), Logan Hughes (junior guard-center), Zach Defensive outlook Milhorn (senior tackle), David Mellinger The Beavers have six returning starters (senior tackle), Zak Kestner (junior on a defense that gave up at least 28 tackle), Westley Simons (junior guard). points in six games last season. “We look to stop the run and keep the Returning defensive linemen other team in front of us,” McElroy said. Andrew Gibson (junior tackle), Zack Thomas (junior tackle). Returning offensive backs Michael Clendenning (junior tailback), Incoming defensive linemen Garrett Givens (sophomore fullback), Chad Mays (junior end), Noah West Torey Calio (wingback). (junior end), Michael Bock (end), Zak Kestner (tackle-end), Zach Milhorn (seIncoming offensive backs nior end), Alec Post (sophomore end), Logan Bousher (senior quarterback), Ben Smith (tackle), David Mellinger (seDamien Emmert (junior wingback-quar- nior tackle). terback), Donovan Garcia (sophomore tailback), Dan Wirth (freshman fullback), Returning linebackers Cade O’Rourke (junior fullback). Morning Journal/Joe Catullo Garrett Givens (sophomore inside), Michael Clendenning (junior inside), Beaver Local junior Andrew Gibson returns as the starting center. Returning offensive ends Jacob Pancake (senior split end), Shane Torey Calio (junior outside), Terry Adkins (senior inside). Wright (split end). “The team looks forward to building off the last two Incoming linebackers Incoming offensive ends Damien Emmert (junior outside), Chris Noah West (junior tight end), Chris Yanni (junior outside), Kobi Ream Yanni (junior split end), Michael Bock (sophomore outside), Christian Lerussi (junior tight end). (sophomore outside). Returning offensive linemen Returning defensive backs Terry Adkins (senior guard), Zack Logan Bouscher (senior cornerback), Thomas (junior tackle), Andrew Gibson Shane Wright (junior cornerback), Jacob (junior center). Pancake (senior cornerback). Incoming offensive linemen Chad Mays (junior guard), Ben Smith See BEAVERS, Page 8B
GOOD LUCK
seasons with 20 returning lettermen. These returners look to fill the void left by the senior class.” JEREMY MCELROY, BEAVER LOCAL COACH
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8B • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
Beaver Local Beavers
Morning Journal/Joe Catullo
Torey Calio (above) and Michael Clendenning will lead the Beaver Local offense this season.
1 Shane Wright...............WR/DB .......5-10.....150.......Jr. 2 Nate Rawson ...............WR/DB .......5-8.......135.......Soph. 3 Drew Theiss.................K/P .............5-10.....165.......Jr. 4 Luke Call......................QB/DB........5-9.......180.......Jr. 5 Matt DeBacco ..............WR/DB .......5-9.......150.......Soph. 6 Hunter Saltsman..........WR/LB........5-10.....155.......Soph. 7 Chris Yanni ..................WR/LB........5-8.......145.......Jr. 8 Issac Ream..................WR/LB........5-10.....175.......Jr. 9 Donovan Garcia...........RB/DB ........5-10.....155.......Soph. 10 Shiquan Wofford..........WR/DB .......5-9.......145.......Soph. 11 Logan Bouscher...........QB/DB........5-11 .....175.......Sr. 12 Noah West...................TE/DE ........6-0.......190.......Jr. 13 Ethan Lewis .................QB/DB........5-9.......150.......Fr. 15 Garrett Morris ..............WR/DB .......5-9.......145.......Soph. 20 Alex Saffell...................RB/LB.........5-9.......155.......Soph. 21 Clayton Gourley...........WR/DB .......5-9.......140.......Fr. 22 Josh Smith...................K/P .............5-10.....160.......Sr. 23 Jacob Kane..................RB/DB ........5-.........145.......Fr. 24 Torey Calio...................RB/LB.........5-9.......165.......Jr. 25 Christian Lerussi..........RB/OLB......5-9.......145.......Soph. 26 Michael Clendenning ...RB/LB.........6-0.......195.......Jr. 30 Andrew Shultz..............WR/DB .......5-9.......180.......Soph. 32 Garrett Givens .............RB/LB.........6-1.......210.......Soph. 33 Daniel Wirth .................RB/DE ........6-1.......185.......Fr. 34 Damien Emmert...........RB/LB.........5-8.......145.......Jr.
35 Michael Bock ...............TE/DE ........6-1.......190.......Jr. 44 Cade OʼRourke............RB/LB.........5-9.......185.......Jr. 50 Tyler Conto ..................OL/DT ........5-8.......210.......Sr. 51 Kobi Ream...................OL/LB.........5-9.......170.......Soph. 52 Zach Milhorn................OL/DE ........6-2.......185.......Sr. 53 Zak Kestner .................OL/DE ........6-2.......220.......Jr. 54 Andrew Solansky .........OL/DT ........5-9.......180.......Soph. 55 Terry Adkins .................OL/LB.........6-2.......240.......Sr. 56 Jacob Morgan..............OL/DT ........6-2.......230.......Jr. 59 Chad Mays ..................OL/DE ........6-2.......210.......Jr. 60 Logan Hughes .............OL/LB.........5-9.......175.......Jr. 61 Eddie Pennicuff ...........OL/DT ........6-2.......220.......Soph. 62 Nik Wukotich................OL/DT ........5-10.....185.......Fr. 64 Grady Mitchell..............OL/DT ........5-8.......140.......Fr. 66 Michael Young .............OL/DT ........5-9.......220.......Fr. 67 Zack Thomas...............OL/DT ........6-4.......280.......Jr. 68 Westley Simons...........OL/DT ........6-0.......225.......Jr. 70 Alec Post......................OL/DE ........5-10.....210.......Soph. 72 David Mellinger............OL/DT ........6-2.......280.......Sr. 75 Parker Summers..........OL/DT ........6-1.......245.......Jr. 76 Ben Smith ....................OL/DT ........6-7.......310.......Sr. 77 Jackson Lewis .............OL/DT ........6-2.......215.......Soph. 78 Andrew Gibson ............OL/DT ........6-2.......280.......Jr. 82 Jacob Pancake ............WR/DB .......6-0.......165.......Sr. 83 Tim Wirth .....................TE/DE ........6-0.......155.......Jr.
BEAVERS, Continued from Page 7B
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Incoming defensive backs Devan Zellers (graduated), honorDonovan Garcia (sophomore free able mention All-Area. safety). 2015 Leaders Rushing — Robert Johnston 2015 Players honored Robert Johnston (graduated), spe- (graduated) 1,156 yards and 11 cial mention Division IV All-Ohio touchdowns on 177 carries (6.5); Michael Clendenning, 272 yards and and first-team All-Area. Jason Keyes (graduated), special three touchdowns on 56 carries mention Division IV All-Ohio and (4.9). Passing — Trevore McLaughlin first-team All-Area. Michael Clendenning, honorable (graduated) completed 50.9 percent of his passes for 886 yards. mention All-Area. Receiving — Jason Keyes, 119. Justin Flowers (graduated), honorTackles — Jason Keyes (graduable mention All-Area. ated) 119; Justin Flowers (graduated) 99; Michael Clendenning 85; Devan Zellers (graduated) 78.
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2016 Outlook Beaver Local has posted 11 wins the last two seasons after totaling seven wins the previous five seasons. “The team looks forward to building off the last two seasons with 20 returning lettermen,” McElroy said. “These returners look to fill the void left by the senior class.” Beaver Local enters the season
“The team looks forward to building off the last two seasons with 20 returning lettermen.” JEREMY MCELROY, BEAVER LOCAL HEAD COACH
after winning five of its previous seven games. “The Beavers are looking forward to competing in the Buckeye 8 North and a challenging non-league schedule of Akron North, West Branch, Linsly, Warrensville Heights, Martins Ferry and Oak Glen,” McElroy said. The Beavers will have time to work things out as they open the season against Akron North instead of Crestview like they have the previous three seasons. Division II Akron North is coming off an 0-10 season in which it gave up 481 points.
MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 9B
2016 BUCKEYE 8 ATHLETIC LEAGUE SCHEDULE
WEEK ONE Friday, August 26 Akron North at Beaver Local East Liverpool at Edison Cambridge at Indian Creek Martins Ferry at Buckeye Local Monroe at Union Local Claymont at Harrison Central Saturday, August 27 Hannibal River at Bellaire Carrollton at St. Clairsville ——— WEEK TWO Friday, September 2 Beaver Local at West Branch East Liverpool at Indian Creek Edison at Weir Buckeye Local at Union Local Linsly at Martins Ferry Bellaire at Wheeling Central Catholic Coshocton at St. Clairsville Cleveland Rhodes at Harrison Central ——— WEEK THREE Friday, September 9 Wheeling Linsly at Beaver Local East Liverpool at Salem Edison at Buckeye Local Indian Creek at Oak Glen Union Local at Martins Ferry St. Clairsville at Meadowbrook Saturday, September 10 Harrison Central at Bellaire ——— WEEK FOUR Friday, September 16 Beaver Local at Edison Southeast at East Liverpool Indian Creek at Buckeye
Local Martins Ferry at St. Clairsville Harrison Central at Union Local Saturday, September 17 John Marshall at Bellaire ——— WEEK FIVE Friday, September 23 Beaver Local at East Liverpool Edison at Union Local St. Clairsville at Indian Creek Martins Ferry at Harrison Central Saturday, September 24 Buckeye Local at Bellaire ——— WEEK SIX Friday, September 30 Warrensville Heights at Beaver Local Martins Ferry at East Liverpool Oak Glen at Edison Indian Creek at Brooke John Marshall at Buckeye Local St. Clairsville at Harrison Central Union Local at Weir Saturday, October 1 Bellaire at Steubenville Catholic Central ——— WEEK SEVEN Friday, October 7 Buckeye Local at Beaver Local East Liverpool at Oak Glen Harrison Central at Edison Indian Creek at Martins Ferry Bellaire at St. Clairsville Union Local at Vincent Warren ——— WEEK EIGHT Friday, October 14 Indian Creek at Beaver Local
Morning Journal/Joe Catullo
Beaver Local’s Andrew Gibson (78) and Zak Kesnter (53) join in the celebration after the Beavers defeated Edison in a Buckeye 8 North Division showdown last year.
Buckeye Local at East Liverpool Steubenville Catholic Central at Edison Carrick at Martins Ferry Bellaire at Shadyside St. Clairsville at Union Local Harrison Central at Oak Glen ——— WEEK NINE Thursday, October 20 St. Clairsville at Steubenville Friday, October 21 Beaver Local at Martins Ferry Weir at East Liverpool Edison at Toronto South Range at Indian Creek
See page 6B for the Beaver Local preview
Oak Glen at Buckeye Local Union Local at Bellaire Harrison Central at River View ——— WEEK TEN Friday, October 28 Beaver Local at Oak Glen East Liverpool at St. Clairsville Edison at Indian Creek Buckeye Local at Harrison Central Bellaire at Martins Ferry Union Local at Barnesville
Special to the Journal/Jimmy Joe Savage
Beaver Local’s Michael Clendenning turns the corner against East Liverpool’s Austin Mayfield (5) last season.
EAST LIVERPOOL POTTERS
10B • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
Morning Journal/Joe Catullo
2016 SCHEDULE
All games start at 7 p.m., unless noted Aug. 26 at Edison, Sept. 2 at Indian Creek, Sept. 9 at Salem, Sept. 16 Southeast Sept. 23 Beaver Local, 7:30 Sept. 30 Martins Ferry Oct. 7 at Oak Glen Oct. 14 Buckeye, 7:30 Oct. 21 Weir, 7:30 Oct. 28 at St. Clairsville, 7:30
Members of the 2016 East Liverpool football team are (front, from left) Aaron Bombich, Dylan Kidder, Troy Croskey, Austin Mayfield, team historian Frank Dawson, Peyton Adkins, Levi Turner, Michael Loy, Zach Gill; (second row, from left) Peyton Reed, Noah Shaw, Nick Woodyard, Derek Carter, Cory Cotter, Sobaan Razi, Dakota Ice, Hayden Jackson; (third row, from left) Kyle Walker, Lane Kopras, Shaylon Brentley, Cory Weyand, Trever Wern, Jalen Moman, Justin Sarge, Jaymin Jackson; (fourth row, from left) P.J. Morris, Caleb Learn, Aiden Watkins, Evan Dieringer, Freddie Plum, David Locke, Justin Watkins, Jake Cornell, Eric Glendenning; (fifth row, from left) Kaz Zubay, Logan McKenzie, Skylor Wooley, Ryan Tanner, Joaquin Johnson, Zach Morris, Caleb McHenry, Davonne Bailey; (sixth row, from left) Jason Todd, Gary Allen, Nathan Bryant, Koby Plum, Tommy Thompson, Danny Wells, Lindsay Baker, Noah Wheaton, Caleb Walker; (back, from left) coach Mike Crane, coach Eric McMahon, coach Jeff Wright, coach Andy Vulgamore, head coach Josh Ludwig, coach Alvan Thompson, coach Bill Potts, coach Jim Crane and coach David Thompson.
“Our seniors have worked hard under my system now for their entire high school careers and we are poised to bring pride back to East Liverpool.” JOSH LUDWIG, EAST LIVERPOOL HEAD COACH
MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 11B
Potters plan to unleash offense Classification Division IV, Region 15 2015 Record 3-7, including a third-place finish in the Buckeye 8 Athletic League North Division with a mark of 2-2. The three wins came against teams that went a combined 525 (.167), while the seven losses were to teams that went 49-25 (.662). Head Coach Josh Ludwig enters his third season has head coach with a record of 3-17. He also served four seasons as an East Liverpool assistant. Ludwig is a 2000 graduate of East Liverpool and a 2005 Mount Union graduate. He was a starter on the Purple Raiders’ 2002 NCAA Division III national championship team. Assistant coaches Alvan Thompson Andy Vulgamore Jeff Wright Eric McMahon David Thompson Jimmy Crane Mike Crane Nineteen.
Returning lettermen
Morning Journal/Joe Catullo
East Liverpool senior linemen Freddie Plum (left) and David Locke (right) will be counted on up front for the Potters this season.
“We will look to spread teams out and throw the ball after giving up at least 35 points in five games last seamore than we have in years past,” Ludwig said. son. “We hope to fly to the ball better this season,” Ludwig Basic defensive formation said. Offensive outlook 4-3 The Potters will build around third-year starting quarDefensive outlook terback Austin Mayfield, who has thrown for 1,111 The Potters continue to seek improvement defensively See POTTERS, Page 12B yards the past two seasons. Basic offensive formation Multiple spread.
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12B • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
POTTERS, Continued from Page 11B
Returning offensive backs Austin Mayfield (senior quarterback), Aaron Bombich (senior wingback), Kyle Walker (tailback). Incoming offensive backs Lane Kopras (sophomore running back), Hayden Jackson (senior running back), Payton Reed (sophomore quarterback), Peyton Adkins (junior quarterback). Returning offensive ends Zach Gill (senior tight end), Dakota Ice (senior wide receiver). Incoming offensive ends Noah Shaw (senior wide receiver), Levi Turner (sophomore wide receiver). Returning offensive linemen Ryan Tanner (senior center), Danny Wells (senior tackle), Freddie Plum (senior tackle), Incoming offensive linemen Jake Cornell (junior guard), Aiden Watkins (senior guard), David Locke (senior guard), Caleb McHenry (senior tackle). Returning defensive linemen Freddie Plum (senior end), David Locke (senior end). Incoming defensive linemen Caleb McHenry (senior tackle), Davonne Daley (junior tackle), Ryan Tanner (senior tackle), Danny Wells (senior tackle), Aiden Watkins (senior end). Returning linebackers Jake Cornell (junior inside), Zach Gill (senior outside). Incoming linebackers Lane Kopras (sophomore inside), Hayden Jackson (senior outside). Returning defensive backs Aaron Bombich (senior cornerback), Michael Loy (junior cornerback), Peyton Adkins (junior safety). See POTTERS, Page 13B
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Morning Journal/Joe Catullo
East Liverpool senior center Ryan Tanner (left) and senior tight end Zach Gill (right) will help lead the Potters into the 2016 football season.
East Liverpool Potters
1 Aaron Bombich ............WR/DB .......6-0.......180.......Sr. 2 Dylan Kidder ................K.................5-11 .....180.......Sr. 3 Troy Croskey ...............WR/DB .......5-10.....155.......Soph. 5 Austin Mayfield ............QB/LB ........6-1.......205.......Sr. 6 Peyton Adkins..............QB/DB........6-0.......160.......Jr. 8 Levi Turner...................RB/DB ........5-10.....155.......Soph. 10 Michael Loy .................RB/DB ........5-11 .....160.......Jr. 11 Zach Gill.......................WR/DB .......6-2.......200.......Sr. 12 Peyton Reed................QB/DB........5-10.....150.......Soph. 13 Noah Shaw ..................WR/DB .......5-10.....145.......Sr. 15 Nick Woodyard ............WR/DB .......5-9.......135.......Fr. 16 Derek Carter ................RB/DB ........5-8.......135.......Fr. 18 Cory Cotter ..................WR/LB........6-0.......180.......Sr. 19 Sobaan Razi ................WR/DB .......5-8.......125.......Soph. 21 Dakota Ice ...................WR/DB .......5-9.......140.......Sr. 22 Hayden Jackson ..........RB/LB.........6-1.......210.......Sr. 24 Kyle Walker .................RB/LB.........6-3.......180.......Sr. 25 Lane Kopras ................RB/LB.........5-8.......195.......Soph. 26 Shaylon Brentley .........WR/DB .......5-9.......150.......Soph. 27 Cory Weyand...............WR/LB........5-8.......150.......Soph. 30 Trever Wern.................WR/DB .......5-8.......125.......Fr. 32 Jalen Moman ...............RB/DL ........5-11 .....220.......Soph. 40 Justin Sarge.................RB/LB.........5-8.......160.......Fr. 44 Jaymin Jackson ...........RB/LB.........5-10.....150.......Fr. 52 P.J. Morris....................OL/DL.........5-8.......205.......Soph.
53 Caleb Learn .................OL/DL.........5-8.......220.......Fr. 54 Aiden Watkins..............OL/DL.........5-9.......190.......Soph. 55 Evan Dieringer.............OL/DL.........5-10.....240.......Sr. 56 Freddie Plum ...............OL/DL.........6-5.......240.......Sr. 57 David Locke.................OL/DL.........6-0.......200.......Sr. 58 Justin Watkins .............OL/DL.........5-10.....165.......Soph. 59 Jake Cornell.................OL/LB.........5-11 .....210.......Jr. 60 Eric Glendenning .........OL/DL.........5-9.......200.......Soph. 62 Kaz Zubay ...................OL/DL.........5-9.......200.......Fr. 63 Logan McKenzie..........OL/DL.........5-10.....180.......Fr. 64 Skylor Wooley..............OL/DL.........6-1.......220.......Fr. 66 Ryan Tanner ................OL/DL.........6-1.......290.......Sr. 67 Joaquin Johnson .........OL/DL.........6-0.......225.......Soph. 68 Zach Morris..................OL/DL.........5-10.....200.......Jr. 70 Caleb McHenry............OL/DL.........6-1.......245.......Sr. 71 Davonne Bailey ...........OL/LB.........5-11 .....255.......Jr. 72 Jason Todd ..................OL/DL.........6-2.......320.......Sr. 73 Gary Allen ....................OL/DL.........5-9.......200.......Soph. 74 Nathan Bryant..............OL/DL.........5-6.......140.......Fr. 75 Koby Plum ...................OL/DL.........6-2.......185.......Fr. 76 Tommy Thompson .......OL/DL.........5-8.......290.......Soph. 77. Danny Wells ...............OL/DL.........6-6.......270.......Sr. 79 Lindsay Baker..............K.................5-9.......225.......Sr. 84 Noah Wheaton.............WR/DB .......5-10.....140.......Soph. 88 Caleb Walker ...............WR/DB .......5-10.....160.......Soph.
MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 13B
Potters like how things are progressing in 2016 By CHRIS RAMBO Staff Writer
EAST LIVERPOOL — When East Liverpool coach Josh Ludwig took over three seasons ago he saw a team that had broken off into too many little factions and was not functioning smoothly as it could have. Now, in his third season, Ludwig sees the type of continuity he feels is required for the Potters to take another step forward after going 0-10 and 3-7 the last two years. “Before, there were too many little groups and we weren’t coming together as one team,” Ludwig said. “This year, there are no cliques. The kids all love each other. They’re all great friends and really want to go out and battle with each other.” To further cultivate team chemistry,” Ludwig adopted the motto “11 as 1” for the season. So far, he is pleased with how the players have bought in. “A big key to having a successful team is having guys that
genuinely like each other and want to fight for each other,” Ludwig said. “We feel we have that this year.” “The amount of teamwork we have now is the biggest difference between now and when I started as a freshman,” senior quarterback Austin Mayfield said. “We expect to stick together no matter what this season.” Mayfield is a big key to the Potters hopes this season, as he will be at the helm of their revamped spread passing attack, a departure from East Liverpool’s normal run-heavy style. He is one of seven starters back from an offense that will be missing the production of graduated running back Austyn Dozier, who led the team with 924 rushing yards. “The offense fits the personnel we have,” Ludwig said. “We put in a lot of work with Austin this offseason with progressions, and he’s done a spectacular job picking everything up. It’s been a fun process changing things up and getting
everyone to buy in.” The Potters return eight starters from a defense that will look to improve after coughing up 29.3 points per game last season. Ludwig has now been in charge of that side of the ball for five years dating back to his time as an assistant has taken note of how ingrained his system is with the players now. “In our scrimmage against United we really swarmed to the ball well,” Ludwig said. “It was the first time in four years that the kids were flying around like that on defense. Playing under the same system for their entire career has definitely helped. We’re not starting from scratch on day one, which makes camp go a lot quicker.” The Potters feel they are at a point where they can consistently compete and aren’t shying away from high expectations a the season draws near. “When we write our goals down at the beginning of the season, our first one is always
to win the Buckeye 8 North,” Ludwig said. “We have to win four games to do it and if we can pull it off then we’ll go from there. I don’t believe in focusing on second and third level goals until you accomplish the first one.” The Potters will get a good idea where they stand early on. The schedule opens with three straight road games against Edison as well as state playoff qualifiers Indian Creek and Salem. Then its home for three games against Southeast, Beaver Local and Martins Ferry. “It’s tough opening with three games on the road, but those are all games we feel like we can be competitive in,” Ludwig said. “If we can get through that stretch then we have a nice long homestand where we hopefully can make some noise.” “One of our strengths will be our mindset,” Mayfield said. “You have to be able to walk on the field and know you can win a game.”
Patterson Field has been home the home of the East Liverpool Potters since 1924. (Photo by Jimmy Joe Savage)
POTTERS, Continued from Page 12B
Incoming defensive backs Dakota Ice (senior safety), Levi Turner (sophomore safety). 2015 Players honored Austyn Dozier (graduated), firstteam All Area. Ryan Bombich (graduated), firstteam All Area. Charles Iacobucci (graduated), honorable mention All-Area. Ryan Lilly (graduated), honorable mention All-Area. Dillan Reynolds (graduated), honorable mention All-Area. Freddie Plum, honorable mention All-Area. 2015 Leaders Rushing — Austyn Dozier (graduated) 924 yards and seven touchdowns on 178 carries (5.2): Austin Mayfield, 424 yards on 94 carries (4.5). Passing — Austin Mayfield, completed 36.6 percent of his passes for 512 yards and five touchdowns. Tackles — Austyn Dozier (graduated) 82. Interceptions — Ryan Bombich (graduated) 4. 2016 Outlook The Potters are trying to turn things around after collecting 13 wins the last five seasons and posting one winning season in 11 years. “With 19 returning seniors we are looking to have a successful season,” Ludwig said. “Our seniors have worked hard under my system now for their entire high school careers and we are poised to bring pride back to East Liverpool. With our spread, high-tempo offense and swarming 4-3 defense, we look to create nightmares for the teams we play.” East Liverpool — which has lost eight of its last nine road games— opens the season with three straight road games at Edison, Indian Creek and Salem. The Potters haven’t beaten a team that finished the season with a winning record since 2010, when they did it three times.
MINERVA LIONS
14B • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
Morning Journal/Ron Firth
Members of the 2016 Minerva football team are (front, from left) Denton Kropf, Tony Berry, Seth McGee, Tyler Harris, Reggie Hancock, Adam Gross, Scout Angione, Brett Russell, Noe Gonzales, Brant Allen, Coy Mullins; (second row, from left) Austin Mound, Trey Carl, Shane Walters, Hunter Brewster, Brock Croston, Travis Kuttler, Connor Fritz, A.J. Vasilliu, Andrew Mayle, Garrett Morgan; (third row, from left) Andrew Jones, Nolan Smith, Dominic Slentz, Candon Givens, Bryson Becker, Alex Kimble, Hunter Worstall, Rylee Walker, Zerick Banner, Evan Hertel, Jason Williams; (fourth row, from left) Seth McGee, Steve Place, Aidan Weikart, Timmy Phillips, Hunter Cox, Eli Hein, Brandon Carroll, Jon Lucas, Kolten Brunner, Ashton Hilliard, Cole Manley, Austin Buck; (back, from left) coach Dale Soles, coach Brian Costea, coach Marty Cvelbar, coach Kris Nign, coach Drew Prendergast, manager Entrique Gonzales, head coach Lance Willison, coach Jason Lutz, coach Bob Carle, coach Alex Albert and coach Joe Watts.
Lions will have to grow up fast 2016 SCHEDULE
All games start at 7 p.m., Aug. 26 Field Sept. 2 St. Thomas Sept. 9 at Canton Central Sept. 16 West Branch Sept. 23 at Louisville Sept. 30 at Canton South Oct. 7 Salem Oct. 14 at Marlington Oct. 21 Alliance Oct. 28 at Carrollton
Classification Division IV, Region, 15 2015 Record 0-10, including an 0-7 mark in the Northeastern Buckeye Conference. The Lions were shut out three times. The last time they were 10-0 was in 1982. They have lost six straight home games. Head Coach Lance Willison enters his first season as head coach. He has served the past 16 years on the Minerva staff, mostly as a defensive assistant and defensive coordina-
tor. He was inducted into the Minerva High School Athletic Hall of Fame in 2015.
Derrick Haines, offensive assistant Returning lettermen Eight, including six starters on offense and six on defense.
Assistant coaches Alex Albert, offensive coordinator Dale Soles, defensive coordinator Basic offensive formation Marty Cvelbar, linebackers Spread. Brian Costea, defensive line Jason Lutz, offensive line, running Offensive outlook backs The Lions return two skilled multipurDrew Pendergast, wide receivers pose threats in running back Coy Mullins Joe Watts, offensive line and receiver Adam Gross, but lose four Kris Nign, defensive backs See LIONS, Page 16B Bob Carle, quality control, equipment
MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 15B
Minerva looks to one of its own
Willison takes over as head coach at his alma mater after standout playing career By CHRIS RAMBO Staff Writer
MINERVA—Starring on Friday nights for Minerva was one of the greatest experiences of Lance Willison’s life. When the opportunity to become the school’s next head coach opened up, the former standout linebacker couldn’t pass up the chance to make an additional impact at his alma mater. “It was a great chance to have somebody who grew up here and played here take the reins of this program,” Willison said. “I wanted the chance to provide today’s kids with the same kind of great experiences I had when I played here. Playing football can be a springboard to the rest of your life.” Willison is a 1999 graduate of Minerva and left his mark with a school-record 384 career tackles. He earned first-team All-Northeastern Buckeye Conference as a junior and senior, leading the Lions to a 19-1 regular season record. He was also a two-year letterwinner in basketball. Willison has spent the last 16 years at Minerva serving on the football staff mostly as a defensive assistant and defensive coordinator. He is the current middle school guidance counselor. “I had a lot of things personally fall in line that allowed me to apply for the job this time around,” Willison said. “We just finished building
“I wanted the chance to provide today’s kids with the same kind of great experiences I had when I played here.” LANCE WILLISON, MINERVA HEAD COACH
a house and my kids are both old enough now. Plus, my mom just retired so that leaves someone else available to help out and to drive them around. It just felt like the right time for me.” To Willison, the biggest difference between being an assistant and leading the program is the sheer volume of responsibility he has to take on now. “When I was an assistant, I maybe had a couple of things to take care of after I left practice. But when you are the head coach, every decision throughout the whole program comes down to you,” Willison said. “Your mind is constantly on football this time of year. You go to bed every night thinking about things you can do better the next day.” On the field, Willison has a tall order ahead of him. The Lions finished 0-10 in 2015 and gave up an average of 41.3 points per game. As with most rebuilding projects, Willison knows it is vital to establish a strong foundation at the lower levels.
“We are really putting an emphasis on coaching the younger players,” Willison said. “The biggest thing is I want to make sure our players are being coached as much as possible. We have three coaches in place at both the seventh and eighth grade levels.” More than anything, though, Willison wishes to see the passion he has for the school and for the game of football rub off on the whole program. “We are trying to instill an edge in our players,” Willison said. “I keep telling the kids that we’ll probably never be the biggest or the fastest team, but I want every team that plays us to know they were in a battle.”
Leaving the NBC
Willison said one of his favorite memories from his playing days was beating Louisville in his junior and senior seasons. The rest of the NBC schools voted last winter to break away from Louisville — which is easily the largest school in the league — and form their own conference at the conclusion of the 2017-2018 school year. “We had a huge rivalry with them back then and we played each other on week 10,” Willison said. “Personally, I like playing them, but the reality is that we just don’t Morning Journal/Ron Firth have the numbers to compete with them on a consistent basis any- Lance Willison, Minerva’s all-time leading tackler, takes over as the Lions’ head coach. more.” MINERVA CLASSIC 57
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16B • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 “When people think of Minerva football, I want them to think about the toughness and competitiveness of our teams.” LANCE WILLISON, MINERVA HEAD COACH
LIONS, Continued from Page 14B
Minerva Lions
2 Adam Gross.................WR/S..........5-10.....180.......Sr. 3 Seth McGee.................WR/LB........6-0.......165.......Sr. 4 Scout Angione .............WR/C .........6-0.......155.......Sr. 5 Brock Croston..............QB/C ..........6-3.......175.......Jr. 6 Alex Kimble..................QB/S ..........6-0.......150.......Soph. 7 Connor Fritz.................WR/S..........6-0.......165.......Jr. 8 Zerick Banner ..............K.................5-7.......140.......Soph. 9 Kobe Kinsey ................RB/LB.........5-2.......145.......Fr. 10 Hunter Worstall............WR/LB........6-0.......180.......Soph. 12 Rylee Walker ...............WR/C .........5-10.....175.......Soph. 14 A.J. Vasilliu ..................RB/LB.........5-9.......205.......Jr. 15 Reggie Hancock ..........WR/DL .......6-1.......190.......Sr. 16 Brett Russell ................WR/C .........5-10.....140.......Sr. 18 Austin Buck..................WR/C .........5-4.......120.......Fr. 19 Shane Walters .............QB/S ..........5-7.......175.......Jr. 21 Coy Mullins ..................RB/C ..........5-8.......175.......Sr. 22 Cole Maley...................WR/LB........5-8.......165 Fr. 23 Ashton Hilliard..............RB/S...........5-6.......150.......Fr. 24 Andrew Jones ..............WR/C .........5-10.....175.......Soph. 25 Nolan Smith .................WR/LB........5-9.......150.......Soph. 28 Evan Hertel..................WR/S..........5-11 .....155.......Soph. 32 Austin Mound...............OL/DL.........6-0.......155.......Soph. 33 Jason Williams.............WR/C .........5-8.......145.......Soph. 34 Dominic Slentz.............RB/LB.........6-0.......205.......Soph.
43 Camdon Givens...........WR/S..........5-7.......150.......Soph. 44 Kolten Brunner.............5-8..............130 ......Fr. 49 Steve Place .................WR/C .........5-5.......125.......Fr. 50 Timmy Phillips..............OL/LB.........5-10.....165.......Fr. 51 Hunter Brewster...........OL/DL.........5-10.....210.......Jr. 52 Noe Gonzales..............OL/DL.........5-9.......170.......Sr. 53 Jon Lucas ....................OL/DL.........5-5.......190.......Soph. 54 Aidan Weikart ..............OL/DL.........5-8.......255.......Fr. 55 Andrew Mayle ..............OL/LB.........5-9.......210.......Jr. 56 Trey Carl ......................OL/DL.........5-10.....255.......Jr. 57 Tyler Harris ..................OL/DL.........6-0.......190.......Sr. 58 Isaiah Wright................ OL/DL........5-10.....190.......Soph. 60 Denton Kropf ..............OL/DL.........5-7.......215.......Sr. 61 Brant Allen ...................OL/DL.........5-10.....175.......Sr. 65 Tony Berry ...................WR/LB........5-9.......175.......Sr. 68 Dominic Slentz.............RB/LB.........6-0.......205.......Soph. 72 Travis Kuttler................OL/DL.........6-3.......295.......Jr. 74 Hunter Cox ..................OL/DL.........6-2.......300.......Fr. 76 Garrett Morgan ............OL/DL.........6-4.......330.......Soph. 77 Eli Hein ........................OL/DL.........5-10.....210.......Soph. 80 Bryson Becker .............OL/DL.........5-11 .....160.......Soph. 86 Brandon Carroll ...........RB/S...........5-8.......145.......Soph. 87 Hunter Clider ...............WR/DB .......5-9.......140.......Fr.
offensive linemen. “Both young men had outstanding offseasons and will look to shine on the field in 2016,” Willison said. At quarterback, Brock Croston and Shane Walters both saw time last season and will compete for the position. “Both had to step in and play as sophomores which is tough to do,” Willison said. “They both have been working to improve their craft and I am excited to see what they can bring to our offense this year.” Willison hope to put some juice back into an offense that averaged 11.4 points per game last season. “With Alex Albert back as offensive coordinator, we are looking to be explosive and build his explosive ofters (junior safety). fensive system into our program at all levels,” Willison Incoming offensive ends said. “Using formations and concepts to attack defensive Reggie Hancock (senior wide receiver), Seth McGee 2015 Players honored fronts and coverages will be the formula.” (senior wide receiver), Connor Fritz (junior wide reCoy Mullins, first-team All-NBC. ceiver). Kyle Gulling (graduated), second-team All-NBC. Basic defensive formation 4-3 Returning offensive linemen 2015 Leaders Trey Carle (junior offensive lineman)
Rushing —Coy Mullins, 1,301yards and eight touchdowns. Incoming offensive linemen Receiving —Adam Gross, 10 receptions for 106 Travis Kuttler (junior center), Dom Stenz (sophomore yards (10.6) and one touchdown. tackle), Tyler Harris (senior guard), Tony Berry (senior Tackles — Coy Mullins 49, Connor Fritz 30, Adam tackle), Andrew Male (junior guard). Gross 26. Interceptions — Connor Fritz 1. Returning defensive linemen None 2016 Outlook The Lions are building the team around 11 seniors, Incoming defensive linemen including 1,300-yard rusher Coy Mullins, and eight junTony Berry (senior), Travis Kuttler (junior), Hunter iors. Brewster (junior), Andre Mayle (junior). “This team has worked very hard to reverse the fortunes of last season,” Willison said. “We need to work as Returning linebackers a coaching staff to make sure our players are in the best A.J. Vasilliu (junior), Seth McGee (senior), Dominic position for success. We also need to re-instill the toughSlentz (sophomore). ness that our football tradition is built on. “When people think of Minerva football, I want them Returning offensive backs Incoming linebackers to think about the toughness and competitiveness of our Brock Croston (junior quarterback), Shane Walters Dom Slentz (sophomore). teams. Our kids owe it to themselves, their school and (junior quarterback), Coy Mullins (senior running back). their community to compete at the highest possible Returning defensive backs level.” Incoming offensive backs Adam Gross (senior free safety), Coy Mullins (senior The Lions have to be ready from the start as they have A.J. Vasillui (junior tailback). cornerback), Connor Fritz (junior cornerback). a rough first-half schedule with Mogadore Field, Louisville St. Thomas Aquinas, Cleveland Central Returning offensive ends Incoming defensive backs Catholic, West Branch and Louisville — all had winAdam Gross (senior wide receiver), Brett Russell (seJason Williams (sophomore cornerback), Shane Wal- ning records last year. nior wide receiver) Defensive outlook The Lions surrendered at least 28 points in every game last season, allowing an 41.3 points per game. “We lost a little bit of the edge we’ve been known to have here at Minerva last year on defense,” Willison said. “Dale Soles is our defensive coordinator and he demands toughness out of our kids. We have to get back to playing defense relentlessly like the Minerva teams of the past.” “We will be young on defense, but we have seniors Coy Mullins and Adam Gross in the secondary as returning starters,” Willison said. “Noe Gonzales and junior Andrew Mayle will both be great as defensive linemen. I also feel very good about our linebacker group as A.J. Vasilliu and Seth McGee return to familiar positions.”
MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 17B
2016 NORTHEASTERN BUCKEYE CONFERENCE SCHEDULE
Friday, August 26 Mogadore Field at Minerva Salem at East Palestine Crestwood at West Branch Carrollton at St. Clairsville Louisville at Canfield Poland at Marlington Canton South at Coventry Alliance at St. Thomas Aquinas ——— WEEK TWO Friday, September 2 St. Thomas Aquinas at Minerva Salem at United Beaver Local at West Branch Roosevelt at Carrollton Louisville at Hoover Marlington at Ravenna Canton South at Northwest Canfield at Alliance ——— WEEK THREE Friday, September 9 Minerva at Canton Central Catholic East Liverpool at Salem Southeast at West Branch Claymont at Carrollton Austintown Fitch at Louisville Marlington at St. Thomas Aquinas Cambridge at Canton South Crestview at Alliance ——— WEEK FOUR Friday, September 16 West Branch at Minerva Salem at Canton South Carrollton at Marlington Alliance at Louisville ———
WEEK FIVE Friday, September 23 Minerva at Louisville Marlington at Salem West Branch at Carrollton Canton South at Alliance ——— WEEK SIX Friday, September 30 Minerva at Canton South Carrollton at Salem Alliance at West Branch Louisville at Marlington ——— WEEK SEVEN Friday, October 7 Special to the Journal/Gary Leininger Salem at Minerva West Branch at Minerva running back Coy Mullins is tackled by Salem’s Ethan Bailey (20) and Levi Maenz last season. Louisville Carrollton at Alliance Marlington at Canton South ——— WEEK EIGHT Friday, October 14 Minerva at Marlington Alliance at Salem Canton South at West Branch Louisville at Carrollton ——— WEEK NINE Friday, October 21 Alliance at Minerva Louisville at Salem West Branch at Marlington Carrollton at Canton South ——— WEEK 10 Morning Journal/Ron Firth Friday, October 28 Minerva at Carrollton The Minerva Lions are counting on running back Coy Canton South at Mullins (21) and receiver Adam Gross (2) this season. Louisville Marlington at Alliance Saturday, October 29 Salem at West Branch
MORNING JOURNAL
308 Maple St. Lisbon, Ohio 44432 Phone (330) 424-9541
18B • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
2016 OHSAA FOOTBALL REGIONS
DIVISION IV Region 13 Brookside Cardinal Mooney Clearview Cleveland Central Catholic Conneaut Crestwood Cuy. Valley Christ. Aca. Edgewood Fairview Mogadore Field Oberlin Firelands Girard Parma Heights Holy Name Hubbard Jefferson Area La Grange Keystone Lakeview Notre Dame-Cathedtral Latin Pepper Pike Orange Perry Ravenna Southeast Streetsboro Struthers Ursuline West Branch Woodridge Region 15 Amanda-Clearcreek Beaver Local Bloom-Carroll Buckeye Local Cambridge Canton South Claymont East Liverpool Fairfield Union Heath Indian Creek Indian Valley John Glenn Johnstown-Monroe Hebron Lakewood Licking Valley Maysville Meadowbrook
Minerva New Lexington Canal Fulton Northwest Ontario Philo River View Salem Shelby St. Clairsville Steubenville ——— DIVISION V Region 17 Beachwood Berkshire Sullivan Black River Brooklyn Canton Central Catholic Middlefield Cardinal Warren Champion Crestview East Palestine Fairless Garrettsville Garfield Grand Valley Gates Mills Hawken LaBrae Youngstown Liberty Luthern West Akron Manchester Pymatuning Valley Rootstown Sandy Valley South Range Tuslaw Cleveland Villa AngelaSt. Joseph Warrensville Heights Wickliffe ——— DIVISION VI Region 21 Brookfield Columbia Station Columbia Columbiana Ashland Crestview Cuyahoga Heights Dalton Lisbon
MORNING JOURNAL
Independence Kirtland Loudonville McDonald Campbell Memorial Mineral Ridge Newton Falls Oberlin Richmond Heights Rittman Smithville Southern Local Springfield Local St. Thomas Aquinas Garfield Heights Trinity United Local Waterloo Western Reserve ——— DIVISION VII Region 25 Southington Conotton Valley East Canton Fairport Harding Jackson-Milton Warren JFK Leetonia Lowellville Lutheran East Malvern Ashland Mapleton Mathews Sebring Mogadore Monroeville Newbury Open Door Christian Greenwich South Central St. Mary Central Catholic Norwalk St. Paul Strasburg-Franklin Toronto Tuscarawas Central Catholic Wellsville Whitney M. Young Windham Youngstown Christian
308 Maple St. Lisbon, Ohio 44432 Phone (330) 424-9541
United receiver Nathan Mikell
1,000-1,000 club
Players in Columbiana County history to rush and pass for 1,000 yards each in a season: Year 2015 2014 2013 2013 2012 2012 2011 2011 2010 2010 2010 2010 2010 2009 2009 2009 2008 2007 2007 2005 2004 2003 2002 1994
Player (School).................................Games Mitch Davidson (Columbiana)..................11 Jesse Best (Crestview)............................12 Collin Gilbert (Crestview).........................13 Garrett Beech (United) ...........................10 Collin Gilbert (Crestview)..........................12 Garrett Beech (United) ..............................10 Adam Coppock (Crestview) .......................13 Austin Barbato (Columbiana) .....................11 Austin Barbato (Columbiana).....................10 Marky Thompkins (East Liverpool) ............11 Trent Toothman (Salem) ............................11 Carter Hill (Crestview)................................11 Josh McLaughlin (United) ..........................11 Trent Toothman (Salem) ............................12 Carter Hill (Crestview)................................12 Shane Peterson (East Palestine)...............10 Shane Peterson (East Palestine) ................9 Tony Britton (Crestview).............................10 Ryan Williams (Columbiana)......................11 Mike Welce (Columbiana)..........................13 Drew Wagner (Columbiana) ......................10 Jay Yorty (Lisbon) ......................................13 Smitty Kendrew (East Palestine) ...............12 Michael Winters (Columbiana) ..................12
Rush 1,135 1,281 1,904 1,049 1,098 1,427 1,016 1,335 1,098 1,018 1,407 1,104 1,065 1,091 1,116 1,058 1,124 1,156 1,256 1,066 1,008 1,159 1,031 1,276
Pass 2,735 1,073 1,522 1,097 1,006 1,017 1,192 1,014 1,046 1,276 1,595 1,665 2,627 2,026 1,547 1,097 1,207 1,063 1,001 1,365 1,114 1,029 1,039 1,004
MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 19B
2016 STATE PLAYOFF SCHEDULE Crestview’s Brandon Sherrill runs between Canton Central’s Will Walencewicz (right) and Brady Thompson in a Division V regional final at Minerva’s Hines Stadium on Nov. 20. Canton Central advanced to the state championship game for the second straight season.
Morning Journal/Patti Schaeffer
FIRST ROUND Friday, November 4 7:30 p.m. Division I, II, IV, VI Saturday, November 5 7 p.m. Division III, V, VII ——— REGIONAL SEMIFINALS Friday, November 11 7:30 p.m. Division I, II, IV, VI Saturday, November 12 70 p.m. Division III, V, VII ——— REGIONAL FINALS Friday, November 18 7:30 p.m. Division I, II, IV, VI Saturday, November 19 7 p.m. Division III, V, VII ———
STATE SEMIFINALS Friday, November 25 7:30 p.m. Division I, II, IV, VI Saturday, November 26 7 p.m. Division III, V, VII ——— STATE FINALS At Ohio Stadium, Columbus (Game times to be announced morning after the state semifinals) Thursday, December 1 One of the divisions that play on Friday nights during the playoffs will have its state title game at 7:30 p.m. Thursday. Friday, December 2 10 a.m., TBA 3 p.m., TBA 8 p.m., TBA Saturday, December 3 10 a.m., TBA 3 p.m. TBA 8 p.m., TBA
Steubenville tight end Charles Reeves tries to get away from Salem’s Kobe Leininger (left) and Lex Murray in a Division IV second-round playoff game at Minerva’s Hines Stadium on Nov. 14. Reeves orginally made a verbal commitment to the University of Kentucky, but changed his mind and has been looking at other colleges as he enters his senior season.
Morning Journal/Patti Schaeffer
20B • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
NCAA DIV. I COLLEGE FOOTBALL SCHEDULES
MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 21B
OAK GLEN GOLDEN BEARS
22B • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
Morning Journal/Joe Catullo
Members of the 2016 Oak Glen football team are (front, from left) Stevie Cool, David DeVaux, Lance Collins, Isaac Rosohac, Dakota Price, Andy Gonzalez; (second row, from left) manager Max Vanfossen, Derek Davis, Logan Kranis, Chase Crago, Austin Andrews, Solan Mueller; (third row, from left) trainer Hannah Jacobs, Jake McCoy, Michael Lemley, Hunter Skeeles, Jaden Glenn, Jacob Jones, trainer Mackenzie Murray; (fourth row, from left) trainer Sierra Dulaney, Preston Brown, Nic Rowland, Blake Almo, Zach Taylor, Collin Williams, Shawn Moore, trainer Hanna Patterson; (fifth row, from left) Gus Weekley, Ty Biela, Logan Meadows, Ethan Travis, Noah Toomey, Cameron Oulds, Kellen Tropeck, Mathias Cook; (back, from left) William Straight, coach Ted Arneault Sr., Dylan Merriman, assistant coach John Leary, head coach Ted Arneault Jr., coach Chris Hill, Tony Minnis, coach Ethan Delekta, Cole English, coach Doug Smith, Joe Durante, head athletic trainer Megan Campbell and trainer Alyssa Creese.
Price is right for Golden Bears 2016 SCHEDULE
All games start at 7 p.m., Aug. 26 at Weir Sept. 2 Steubenville Central Sept. 9 Indian Creek Sept. 15 at Weirton Madonna Sept. 23 at Vincent Warren Sept. 30 at Edison Oct. 7 East Liverpool Oct. 14 Harrison Central Oct. 21 at Buckeye Local Oct. 28 Beaver Local
Classification West Virginia Class AA 2015 Record 4-6. The Golden Bears won their last four home games after losing 14 of their previous 15 games at home. Head Coach Ted Arneault Jr. enters his first season as head coach of the Golden Bears. Arneault served as Oak Glen’s offensive coordinator in 2015. Previously, he spent
time as an assistant at Brooke, Oak Glen, Ethan Delekta, strength and conditionWeir and Madonna high schools and ing, fullbacks, inside linebackers Robert Morris University. Returning lettermen Assistant coaches Eleven, including seven starters on ofRyan Wells, defensive coordinator, in- fense and eight on defense side linebackers, receivers. John Leary, offensive coordinator, Basic offensive formation quarterbacks, safeties. Flexbone. Chris Hill, co-offensive coordinator, Offensive outlook offensive line, defensive line. The headliner for the Golden Bears is Ted Arneault Sr. running backs, special See GOLDEN BEARS, Page 23B teams
MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 23B
Oak Glen Golden Bears
2 Jake McCoy.................WR/LB........6-0.......180.......Soph. 3 David DeVaux..............FB/LB .........5-10.....210.......Sr. 4 Michael Lemley............QB/FS ........5-7.......125.......Fr. 5 Chase Crago ...............WR/DB .......6-2.......155.......Sr. 6 Hunter Skeeles ............QB/LB ........5-8.......150.......Soph. 9 Jaden Glenn ................WR/DB .......5-11 .....140.......Jr. 10 Jacob Jones ................WB/DB .......5-7.......120.......Fr. 13 Collin Williams .............K/WR/DB....5-9.......200.......Jr. 15 Lance Collins ...............QB/LB ........5-10.....180.......Sr. 20 Shawn Moore ..............WB/LB........5-5.......120.......Soph. 22 Dakota Price ................RB/DE ........6-2.......215.......Sr. 23 Stevie Cool ..................WB/LB........5-8.......170.......Sr. 24 Zach Taylor ..................WR/DB .......6-0.......145.......Fr. 27 Blake Almo...................RB/LB.........5-9.......135.......Soph. 32 Nic Rowland ................FB/LB .........5-9.......190.......Jr. 35 Preston Brown .............RB/LB.........5-8.......150.......Fr. 47 Andy Gonzalez ............K/WR/DB....5-7.......130.......Sr. 55 Mathias Cook...............OL/DL.........5-11 .....245.......Jr.
56 Kellen Tropeck.............OL/DL.........6-0.......225.......Soph. 58 Derek Davis .................OL/DL.........6-3.......210.......Jr. 60 Cameron Oulds ...........OL/DL.........5-10.....230.......Soph. 62 Noah Toomey ..............OL/DL.........5-11 .....215.......Jr. 64 Logan Meadows ..........OL/DL.........5-10.....235.......Soph. 66 Ty Biela........................OL/DL.........5-9.......225.......Jr. 70 Cole English ................OL/DL.........6-2.......290.......Soph. 74 Logan Kranis ...............OL/DL.........6-0.......280.......Sr. 76 Joe Durante .................OL/DL.........5-9.......200.......Jr. 77 Tony Minnis..................OL/DL.........5-9.......280.......Jr. 78 Isaac Rosohac.............OL/DL.........6-1.......265.......Sr. 80 Solan Mueller...............WB/DB .......5-5.......135.......Sr. 81 Gus Weekley ...............FB/LB .........5-9.......180.......Jr. 83 Ethan Travis.................SE/DL.........6-5.......200.......Soph. 84 Dylan Merriman ...........WB/LB........5-6.......130.......Fr. 86 Austin Andrews ............WR/DB .......6-0.......165.......Sr. 88 William Straight............FB/LB .........5-10.....180.......Jr.
Morning Journal/Joe Catullo
Oak Glen quarterback Lance Collins returns after throwing for 1,100 yards last season.
GOLDEN BEARS, Continued from Page 22B
running back Dakota Price, who returns after rushing for 1,750 yards last season. Also back is quarterback Lance Collins, who threw for 1,100 yards and completed 60 percent of his passes. “Collins will be more involved in the running game and will lead a more diversified passing attack,” Arneault said. The Golden Bears also return Stevie Cool at fullback, Chase Crago at wide receiver, Isaac Rosohac at guard and Logan Kranis at tackle. Mathias Cook will be moving from center to guard. “We have several player also vying for playing time,” Arneault said. “Nic Rowland will share time at fullback, Jake McCoy will see his first varsity action at wide receiver, as well as Ethan Travis at split end. The open offensive line positions are up for grabs, with Ty Biela, Cameron Oulds, Tony Minnis, Derek Davis, Joe Durante and Kellen Tropeck all competing for time.” Basic defensive formation 4-2-5.
some reshuffling, with Lance Collins moving from corner to outside safety. “Chase Crago will be taking up free safety responsibilities with Jaden Glenn, Austin Andrews and Solan Mueller vying for playing time at cornerback,” Arneault said. “Jake McCoy will also be sliding over to cornerback from outside safety.” “At linebacker, Nic Rowland and Stevie Cool look to be the inside linebackers, with David DeVaux and Blake Almo looking to fill out the rotation.” Returning offensive backs Lance Collins (senior quarterback), Dakota Price (senior running back), Stevie Cool (senior fullback), Nic Rowland (junior fullback). Incoming offensive backs Jake McCoy (sophomore wingback). Returning offensive ends Chase Crago (senior wide receiver). Incoming offensive ends Ethan Travis (sophomore split end), Austin Andrews (senior wide receivers).
Defensive outlook The defensive line will be anchored by Returning offensive linemen returnees Isaac Rosohac, Mathias Cook, Isaac Rosohac (senior), Logan Kranis Derek Davis and Dakota Price. “The tackles look to be a rotation of (senior), Mathias Cook (junior). Logan Kranis, Tony Minnis and Logan Incoming offensive linemen Meadows,” Arneault said. Ty Biela (junior), Joe Durante (junior), The Golden Bears secondary will see
Cameron Oulds (sophomore), Kellen Ryan Cunningham (graduated), honTropeck (sophomore), Tony Minnis (ju- orable mention Class AA All-West Virnior). ginia. Cyle Perez (graduated), honorable Returning defensive linemen mention Class AA All-West Virginia. Isaac Rosohac (senior), Logan Kranis (senior), Dakota Price (senior). 2015 Leaders Rushing —Dakota Price, 1,750 Incoming defensive linemen yards. Tony Minnis (junior), Mathias Cook Passing — Lance Collins completed (junior). 60 percent of his passes for 1,100 yards. Receiving —Cyle Perez (graduated). Returning linebackers Tackles — Cyle Perez (graduated). Nic Rowland (junior inside linebacker), Stevie Cool (senior inside line2016 Outlook backer). “We look to have a team with a good mix of veteran and underclassman talent Incoming linebackers and hope to make a return to the state David DeVaux (senior inside line- playoffs,” Arneault said. backer), Blake Almo (sophomore inside The Golden Bears have won 10 linebacker). games the last four seasons. They are pinning their hopes of a winning season Returning defensive backs on 15 returning lettermen. Lance Collins (senior safety), Chase “Offensively, the running game will Crago (senior safety), Sloan Mueller (se- be featured,” Arneault said. “The passnior cornerback). ing game will be designed to complement the rushing attack. The offensive Incoming defensive backs line will need to gel with the sophoJake McCoy (sophomore safety), mores and juniors stepping in to replace Austin Andrews (senior cornerback), the graduated seniors. Jaden Glenn (junior cornerback). “Defensively, the veterans will be adjusting to new positions and responsi2015 Players honored bilities. The inside linebackers flow to Dakota Price, second-team Class AA the ball well and will be protected by a large defensive line.” All-West Virginia.
SALEM QUAKERS
24B • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
Morning Journal/Wayne Maris
Members of the 2016 Salem football team are (front, from left) Treá Williams, Cooper Bezeredi, Levi Maenz, Jake Maenz, Eli Rothwell, Chase Ackerman, Cooper Stockman, Jarod Cannon, Josh Lehwald, Luke Weingart, Turner Johnson; (second row, from left) Jerod Carner, Zach Bezon, Mitch Davidson, Quinlan Rumsey, Josh Young, Ethan Bailey, Jason Shultz, Andrew Irwin, Anthony Wynyard, Jake Thomas; (third row, from left) Jonathan Sudia, Lex Murray, Jack Madison, Brock Baddeley, Robbie Sarginger, Kobe Leininger, Blaise Chaffin, Billy Robinson, Josh Davis, Jake O’Dell, Logan Foor; (fourth row, from left) James Monigold, Mike Burkey, Joe Dotson, Nathan Martin, Trevor Smith, Matt Castles, Jordan Lyons, Jake Narvet, Jake Humeniuk, Zach Joy; (back, from left) manager Caden Swiger, manager Donnie Oesch, manager Jackson Johnson, Logan Wolfe, Blake Solmen, Braydon Gibson, manager Brock Young, manager Ross Davidson and manager Drake Doud.
Quakers have winning attitude Classification Division IV, Region 15. 2015 Record
2016 SCHEDULE
All games start at 7 p.m., Aug. 26 at East Palestine Sept. 2 at United Sept. 9 East Liverpool Sept. 16 at Canton South Sept. 23 Marlington Sept. 30 Carrollton Oct. 7 at Minerva Oct. 14 Alliance Oct. 21 Louisville Oct. 29 at West Branch
10-2, including a second-place finish in the Northeastern Buckeye Conference with a 6-1 mark. Only one Salem team won more games than the Quakers last year — the 1929 Quakers went 11-0 for Salem’s last unbeaten season. The Quakers won their first eight games last year before falling to Louisville and eventual Division IV state runner-up Steubenville. Head Coach Ron Johnson enters his fourth season as head coach with a record of 13-19. He was the Morning Journal All-Area Coach of the Year. Johnson was head coach at Canton McKinley the previous four seasons, going 31-16 and making the playoffs all four years. He also was head
coach at Yellow Springs (13-17), Westlake (16-24) and Middletown (13-17). Returning lettermen From 1991-2000, he was a running Thirty-two, including three starters on backs coach and assistant head coach at offense and seven starters on defense. Miami (Ohio) University. He has a career head coaching record of 86-77. Basic offensive formation Multiple formations. Assistant coaches Adam Doud, defensive coordinator, deOffensive outlook fensive line The Quakers lost three-year starting Mike DeBarr, special teams coordina- quarterback Matt Weingart, who passed tor, wide receivers for 4,797 career passing yards and a Jason Swiger, offensive line school-record 55 touchdowns. Austin Noel, running backs Running back Cooper Bezeredi is the Mike Maietta, linebackers only returning starter in the backfield. He Donnie Short, defensive backs is a good place to start after collecting Jason Lude, defensive backs See QUAKERS, Page 25B Hank Brock, strength and conditioning
MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 25B
QUAKERS, Continued from Page 24B
2,457 yards of total offense and 18 touchdowns last season. “With only three returning starters on offense, we must develop quickly,” Johnson said. “If the guys play at the level that they have shown to be capable of and meet expectations, then we will be fine.” 3-4.
Basic defensive formation
Defensive outlook The Quakers return most of their players on defense, which gave up an average of 14.6 points a game last season. “We return seven starters on defense and expect them to be the strength of our team,” Johnson said. “They apply great pressure and have high motors. We have exceptional speed on that side of the ball.” Returning offensive backs Cooper Bezeredi (senior running back).
Special to the Journal/Gary Leininger
Incoming offensive backs Salem’s Jerod Carner (12) and Chase Ackerman (6) lead the Quakers’ celebration after the fifth of their 10 victoMitch Davidson (junior quarterback), ries last season. It was their most wins in a season since the 1929 squad went 11-0. Turner Johnson (sophomore quarterback), Eli Rothwell (junior running back). Matt Castles (sophomore), Jordan Lyons Returning defensive backs sion IV All-Ohio and first-team All-Area. (sophomore). Cooper Bezeredi (senior), Jerod Carner Cooper Bezeredi, special mention DiReturning offensive ends (senior), Lex Murray (senior). vision IV All-Ohio and first-team AllJake Humeniuk (senior wide receiver). Returning defensive linemen Area. Ethan Bailey (senior), Anthony WynIncoming defensive backs Keaton Turney (graduated), first-team Incoming offensive ends yard (senior). Chase Ackerman (senior), Turner John- All-Area. Chase Ackerman (junior wide reson (sophomore), Zach Bezon (junior), Josh Campbell (graduated), honorable ceiver), Zach Bezon (junior wide reIncoming defensive linemen Jake Humeniuk (senior). mention All-Area. ceiver), Jerod Carner (senior wide Zach Joy (junior). Zach Cusick (graduated), honorable receiver), Anthony Wynyard (senior tight 2015 Players honored mention All-Area. end). Returning linebackers Max Righetti (graduated), first-team Kade Byland (graduated), honorable Levi Maenz (junior), Andrew Irwin Division IV All-Ohio and first-team AllReturning offensive linemen (senior), Kobe Leininger (senior). mention All-Area. Area. James Monigold (senior). Tony Maniscalco (graduated), honorMatt Weingart (graduated), special Incoming linebackers able mention All-Area. mention Division IV All-Ohio and firstIncoming offensive linemen Robbie Sarginger (sophomore), Jake team All-Area. Robbie Sarginger (sophomore), Joe Maenz (junior). Jake Humeniuk, special mention DiviSee QUAKERS, Page 27B Dotson (senior), Jake O’Dell (junior), TIRES OF ALL BRANDS • WHEEL ALIGNMENTS DIAGNOSTIC TESTING • OIL CHANGES TUNE-UPS • STRUTS • SHOCKS
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26B • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
Quakers have big plans for 2016 By CHRIS RAMBO Staff Writer
SALEM — Coming off one of the best season’s in school history, the Salem football team is striving to show it is a program that is here to stay. “This team has had a very driven attitude so far,” Salem coach Ron Johnson said. “Expectations are higher right now and guys are excited to pick up where we left off last season.” In 2015 the Quakers became just the third team since the program began in 1894 to win 10 games in a season as they finished 10-2 and advanced to the second round of the Division IV state playoffs. Heading into this season, Salem will be tasked with replacing eight starters from last seasons balanced offense. Junior Mitch Davidson will be the one stepping in at quarterback in place of Matt Weingart, who graduated after compiling 1,538 passing yards and a school-record 22 touch-
downs last season. “I’ve got big shoes to fill stepping in for Matt,” Davidson said. “He did a great job last year. We’re going to be real good again, I think. We’ve got a lot of potential. We’ve got a great junior and senior class, but it’s going to be tough to replace what the seniors did last year.” Besides breaking in a new starter at quarterback, the Quakers also have to replace three offensive linemen, versatile running back Kade Byland and All-Ohio kicker Max Righetti on offense. “I’ve been very pleased with the younger players in practice so far,” Johnson said. “We challenged them to step in for the guys who graduated and they are playing at the level we expect them to.” The Quakers will have the privilege this season of being the first team to play on Reilly Stadium’s newly-installed artificial turf. Six of the eight Northeastern Buckeye Conference schools now have turf, with Marlington
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scheduled to become the eighth in the near future. Canton South still plays on grass. “It looks outstanding,” Johnson said. “I know the kids love the feel of it and can’t wait to play on it.” The players will have to wait a while to try out the new surface in a game. The Quakers are at East Palestine and United the first two weeks of the season. The first home game is Sept. 9 against East Liverpool. Johnson said the team has no plans to practice at the stadium. “I’m getting anxious,” Davidson said. “We played on it one time and practiced a little bit. I can’t wait until week three when we open our home field against East Liverpool and get to play on it. It looks beautiful.” The Quakers finished second in the NBC last season for their highest finish since joining the conference in 2011. Johnson expects the league to once again be a rugged test with defending champion Louisville being the clear favorite. “Louisville is the team to beat until someone knocks them off,” Johnson said. “Canton South should be a lot stronger
this year. Marlington also has a lot back and should be good again.” The increase in expectations seems to be something the Quakers have grown comfortable with. “Now we’re right up on top and people are going to go after us,” Davidson said. “We’re going to get everybody’s best shot this year.”
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“This team has had a very driven attitude so far. Expectations are higher right now and guys are excited to pick up where we left off last season.” RON JOHNSON, SALEM HEAD COACH
Best records this century
The regular-season records of area football teams since the 2000 season: Team Record 1. South Range .........................................125-34 2. Crestview ..............................................123-36 3. Columbiana...........................................109-49 4. Springfield...............................................91-69 5. West Branch ........................................85-74-1 6. Beaver Local...........................................83-77 7. United .....................................................81-79 8. Leetonia ..................................................80-79 9. Wellsville.................................................80-80 10. Minerva ...................................................72-88 11. Salem ......................................................64-96 12. East Liverpool .........................................63-97 13. Lisbon .....................................................63-96 14. East Palestine .........................................62-98 15. Southern Local........................................60-99 16. Oak Glen...............................................55-104 17. Sebring .................................................22-137
Pct. .786 .774 .690 .569 .534 .519 .506 .503 .500 .450 .400 .394 .396 .388 .377 .346 .138
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MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 27B
QUAKERS,
Salem Quakers
Continued from Page 25B
2015 Leaders Rushing — Cooper Bezeredi, 1,243 yards and 12 touchdowns on 173 carries (7.2); Kade Byland (graduated) 745 yards and four touchdowns on 146 carries (5.1). Passing — Matt Weingart (graduated) completed 127 of 204 passes (62 percent) for 1,538 yards and a schoolrecord 22 touchdowns. Receiving — Jake Humeniuk, 42 catches for 714 yards (17.0) and a school-record 11 touchdowns; Kade Byland (graduated) 23 catches for 140 yards (6.1) and three touchdowns. Scoring — Max Righetti (graduated) 69; Tackles — Josh Campbell (graduated) 108; Cooper Bezeredi 103; Zach Cusick (graduated) 101. Interceptions — Cooper Bezeredi 4; Kade Byland (graduated) 3.
1 Treʼ Williams ................WR/DB .......5-10.....154.......Soph. 2 Cooper Bezeredi..........RB/DB ........6-1.......174.......Sr. 3 Levi Maenz ..................WR/LB........5-9.......165.......Sr. 4 Jake Maenz .................WR/LB........5-6.......139.......Jr. 5 Eli Rothwell..................RB/LB.........5-9.......167.......Jr. 6 Chase Ackerman .........WR/DB .......6-5.......191.......Jr. 7 Cooper Stockman........TE/LB .........6-1.......206.......Soph. 8 Jarod Cannon ..............WR/LB........5-9.......143.......Soph. 9 Josh Lehwald...............WR/LB........5-10.....163.......Soph. 10 Luke Weingart .............WR/DB .......5-7.......117.......Soph. 11 Turner Johnson............QB/DB........5-11 .....155.......Soph. 12 Jerod Carner................WR/DB .......5-10.....156.......Sr. 13 Zach Bezon .................WR/DB .......5-9.......140.......Jr. 14 Mitch Davidson ............QB/DB........6-3.......174.......Jr. 15 Quinlan Rumsey ..........K.................6-2.......164.......Jr. 18 Josh Young..................WR/DB .......5-9.......143.......Soph. 20 Ethan Bailey ................TE/DL.........6-1.......189.......Sr. 22 Jason Shultz ................WR/DL .......6-0.......156.......Jr. 24 Andrew Irwin ................RB/LB.........5-11 .....213.......Sr. 25 Anthony Wynyard ........TE/DL.........6-2.......253.......Sr. 26 Jake Thomas ...............TE/LB .........5-10.....155.......Jr. 32 Jonathan Sudia............RB/LB.........5-8.......137.......Jr. 36 Lex Murray...................WR/DB .......6-0.......164.......Sr.
40 Jack Madison...............RB/DL ........5-8.......158.......Soph. 44 Brock Baddley .............RB/DB ........5-8.......135.......Soph. 51 Robbie Sarginger.........OL/LB.........5-10.....204.......Soph. 52 Kobe Leininger ............OL/LB.........5-8.......184.......Sr. 53 Blaise Chaffin ..............OL/LB.........5-10.....180.......Soph. 55 Billy Robinson..............OL/LB.........5-5.......136.......Jr. 58 Josh Davis ...................OL/DL.........6-2.......197.......Jr. 59 Jake OáDell .................OL/DL.........5-10.....273.......Jr. 61 Logan Foor ..................OL/DL.........5-10.....355.......Sr. 62 James Monigold ..........OL/DL.........6-0.......243.......Sr. 63 Mike Burkey.................OL/DL.........6-0.......181.......Jr. 67 Joe Dotson ..................OL/DL.........6-0.......263.......Sr. 70 Nathan Martin ..............OL/DL.........5-10.....237.......Soph. 71 Trevor Smith ................OL/DL.........5-10.....250.......Jr. 73 Matt Castles.................OL/DL.........60 ........283.......Soph. 76 Jordan Lyons ...............OL/DL.........6-0.......249.......Soph. 79 Jake Narvet .................OL/DL.........5-9.......173.......Soph. 81 Jake Humeniuk............WR/DB .......6-3.......212.......Sr. 82 Zach Joy ......................TE/DL.........6-1.......212.......Jr. 83 Logan Wolfe ................TE/DL.........6-0.......155.......Soph. 88 Blake Solmen ..............WR/DB .......5-6.......112.......Soph. 89 Braydon Gibson...........K.................5-9.......155.......Jr.
2016 Outlook The Quakers are coming off their winningest season in 86 years and only the third 10-win season in school history. “We have a great group of 12 seniors that are providing outstanding leadership,” Johnson said. “Kobe Leininger and Andrew Irwin are at the forefront on de- the new artificial turf will be to their advantage. It is always a tough task following up a great season fense along with James Monigold and Cooper Bezeredi Salem carries a five-game winning streak at home into with another one. Salem has had consecutive winning on offense. We expect to have great leadership at the the first game at Reilly Stadium against East Liverpool seasons only three times since 1962. Those came in quarterback position with Mitch Davidson.” in week three. 1972-73, 2004-05 and 2009-10. The Quakers lost a talented class to graduation. They piled up 4,114 yards of total offense last season and went 3-2 against teams with winning records. “The expectations have been raised, but the goal remains the same, ‘to play the perfect play’ and to meet that goal as frequently as possible,” Johnson said. “If our young men relentlessly pursue the goal, at the end of the night, they will be content both with their performance and the result.” The Quakers will feature outstanding team speed and
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28B • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
Morning Journal/Wayne Maris
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MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 29B
Morning Journal/Wayne Maris
Senior receiver Jake Humeniuk (left), who had a school-record 11 touchdown receptions last year, and senior running Cooper Bezeredi (right), who accounted for 2,457 all-purpose yards and scored 18 touchdowns last year, are back to lead the Salem Quakers again this season.
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WEST BRANCH WARRIORS
30B • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
Morning Journal/Joe Catullo
Members of the 2016 West Branch football team are (front, from left) Team: (front, from left) Marcus Hoopes, Cameron Martig, Ethan Griffith, Mitch Craig, Nick Gainor, Ian Sharp, Jacob Ice, Robert Lozier, Carl Bates, Brett Butcher, Matt Steer; (second row, from left) Austin Everett, Jake Mills, Ben Castellucci, Kyle Linhart, Mike Williams, Marshall Ney, TJ DeShields, Nate Schubert, Cole Pittman, Ryan Timpe, Brandon Zuchowski, Cole Bates; (third row, from left) Vince McGreal, Jesse Rastetter, Brent Phillips, Mitch Sharp, Peyton Derry, Jacob Lyons, Clayton Adams, Sam Bryant, Max Keinath, Nate Crick, Jonny Ross; (fourth row, from left) Cody Graham, Gavin Alpago, Luke Flickenger, Thomas Caserta, Brock Wilke, Joe Love, Sam Ritchie, Collin Lawniczak, Connor Wilson, Wayne Zurbrugg, Logan Caserta, Anthony Lacivita; (back, from left) coach Ken Harris, coach Carl Davado, coach Chris Tucker, coach Scott Manusalus, head coach D.J. Dota, coach Shawn Alazaus, coach Frank Edie and coach Mike Sigler. Not pictured is coach Chad Butcher.
West Branch needs a good start Classification Division IV, Region 13
2016 SCHEDULE
All games start at 7 p.m., Aug. 26 Crestwood Sept. 2 Beaver Local Sept. 9 Southeast Sept. 16 at Minerva Sept. 23 at Carrollton Sept. 30 Alliance Oct. 7 at Louisville Oct. 14 Canton South Oct. 21 at Marlington Oct. 29 Salem
2015 Record 7-3, including a third-place finish in the Northeastern Buckeye Conference with a 5-2 mark. The Warriors three losses all came against teams that finished the season with 10 wins (Crestwood, Louisville, Salem). West Branch had back-to-back winning seasons for the first time since 2007. Head Coach D.J. Dota enters his sixth season as head coach with a record of 24-26. He was head coach at Warren Harding the previous four seasons with a record of 2317-1 and a Division I state playoff appearance in 2010. He was a defensive
coordinator at Warren Harding for four years and at Struthers for two years. Assistant coaches Mike Sigler, offensive coordinator, quarterbacks Chris Tucker, tight ends, defensive backs Scott Manusakis, wide receivers, defensive line Kenny Harris, offensive line, defensive line Shawn Alazaus, running backs, linebackers Chad Butcher, wide receivers, defensive backs Carl Davanzo, freshmen
Frank Edie, freshmen Returning lettermen Fifteen, including seven starters on offense and five starters on defense. Basic offensive formation Multiple. Offensive outlook The Warriors return starting quarterback T.J. DeShields, who threw for 1,157 yards, and speedy running back Rob Lozier as well as three starters on the offensive line. See WEST BRANCH, Page 31B
MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 31B
Morning Journal/Joe Catullo
West Branch seniors (from left) Cameron Martig, Brett Butcher and Rob Lozier are back to lead the Warriors’ offense.
WEST BRANCH, Continued from Page 30B
Incoming offensive ends The biggest task will be replacing runKyle Linhart (junior wide receiver), ning back Trae Hillyer, who set single season school records in both rushing Cameron Martig (senior wide receiver), yards (1,474) and touchdowns (22) last Ryan Timpe (junior tight end). season. Returning offensive linemen Mitchell Craig (senior), Ian Sharp (seBasic defensive formation nior), Carl Bates (senior). Multiple 4-3. Incoming offensive linemen Defensive outlook Nick Gainor (senior), Nathan Shubert The Warriors return five starters from a (junior), Jacob Lyons (sophomore). defense that gave up an average of 14 points per game in their seven wins, but Returning defensive linemen surrendered an average of 34 points in Mitchell Craig (senior). their three losses.
Incoming defensive linemen Returning offensive backs Ethan Griffith (senior), Nathan Shubert T.J. DeShields (junior quarterback), (junior), Ben Castellucci (junior). Rob Lozier (senior running back). Returning linebackers Incoming offensive backs Jacob Ice (senior), Cole Pittman (juRyan Timpe (junior running back), nior). Matthew Steer (senior running back). Incoming linebackers Matt Steer (senior), Ryan Timpe (juReturning offensive ends nior). Jacob Ice (senior tight end), Brett See WEST BRANCH, Page 32B Butcher (senior wide receiver).
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32B • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
WEST BRANCH, Continued from Page 32B
Returning defensive backs Cameron Martig (senior), Brett Butcher (senior). Incoming defensive backs Rob Lozier (senior).
2015 Players honored Trae Hillyer (graduated), special mention Division IV All-Ohio and first-team All-Area. Colton Ruggles (graduated), first-team All-Area. Jeremy Gorby (graduated), first-team All-Area. Cole Pittman, honorable mention All-Area. Austin Smith (graduated), honorable mention AllArea. Ian Sharp, honorable mention All-Area. 2015 Leaders Rushing — Trae Hillyer (graduated) a school-record 1,474 yards and 22 touchdowns on 233 carries (6.3); Rob Lozier, 137 yards and two touchdowns on 39 carries (3.5). Passing — T.J. DeShields, completed 99 of 156 passes (63.5 percent) and seven touchdowns with two interceptions. Receiving — Rob Lozier 31 catches for 328 yards (10.6) and two touchdowns; Austin Smith (graduated) 29 catches for 412 yards (14.2) and three touchdowns. Scoring — Trae Hillyer (graduated) 132. Tackles — Cole Pittman 111. Interceptions — Brett Butcher 5; Cameron Martig 4.
West Branch Warriors
2 Brett Butcher................WR/DB .......5-10.....160.......Sr. 3 Kyle Linhart..................WR/DB .......6-0.......170.......Jr. 4 Mitch Sharp .................WR/DE .......6-1.......170.......Soph. 5 Nate Crick....................WR/DB .......5-11 .....150.......Soph. 6 Jacob Ice .....................TE/DE ........6-1.......170.......Sr. 7 Cameron Martig...........WR/DB .......5-9.......170.......Sr. 8 Marshall Ney................K.................5-11 .....170.......Sr. 9 Ethan Griffith................WR/DE .......5-10.....151.......Sr. 12 T.J. DeShields..............QB/DB........6-4.......180.......Jr. 13 Joe Love ......................QB/DB........5-8.......150.......Soph. 14 Cole Bates ...................WR/DB .......6-3.......205.......Soph. 16 Vince McGreal .............QB/LB ........5-10.....160.......Soph. 20 Rob Lozier ...................RB/DB ........5-11 .....165.......Sr. 21 Brandon Zuchowski .....TE/DE ........6-3.......192.......Soph. 22 Ryan Timpe .................TE/LB .........5-9.......190.......Jr. 23 Jonny Ross..................WR/LB........5-10.....150.......Soph. 24 Brock Wilke..................TE/LB .........5-8.......145.......Soph. 28 Jesse Rastetter............WR/DB .......5-10.....150.......Soph. 30 Cole Pittman ................TB/LB .........5-11 .....190.......Jr. 31 Marcus Hoopes ...........K.................5-10.....165.......Sr. 32 Thomas Caserta ..........RB/DB ........5-8.......140.......Soph. 33 Jonah Thomas.............WR/DB .......5-8.......140.......Soph. 40 Logan Caserta .............RB/LB.........5-8.......130.......Soph. 44 Matt Steer ....................RB/LB.........5-6.......155.......Sr.
51/88 Jacob Lyons ...........OL/DE ........5-6.......153.......Soph. 52 Ben Castelucci.............OL/DE ........5-11 .....180.......Jr. 53/43 Connor Wilson ........OL/LB.........6-1.......180.......Soph. 54 Sam Ritchie .................OL/DT ........5-10.....190.......Soph. 55 Mitch Craig ..................OL/DT ........6-1.......240.......Sr. 56 Jake Mills.....................Ol/DE .........5-6.......140.......Jr. 58 Carl Bates....................OL/DE ........5-10.....208.......Sr. 59 Collin Lawniczak..........OL/DT ........5-8.......170.......Soph. 60 Cody Graham ..............OL/DT ........5-5.......165.......Soph. 61 Austin Everett ..............OL/DE ........6-3.......197.......Soph. 63 Anthony Lacivita .........OL/DT ........5-4.......180.......Soph. 68 Brent Phillips................OL/DT ........5-10.....175.......Soph. 70 Nate Schubert..............OL/DE ........5-11 .....230.......Jr. 71 Clayton Adams ............OL/DT ........6-0.......220.......Soph. 72 Gavin Alpago ...............OL/DT ........6-2.......195.......Soph. 73 Nick Gainor..................OL/DT ........6-0.......220.......Soph. 74 Ian Sharp .....................OL/DT ........6-5.......275.......Sr. 75 Mike Williams...............OL/DT ........6-6.......305.......Jr. 77 Sam Bryant..................OL/DT ........6-0.......240.......Soph. 80 Luke Flickenger ...........WR/DB .......5-11 .....160.......Soph. 81 Max Keinath.................WR/DB .......5-11 .....130.......Soph. 84 Wayne Zurbrugg..........WR/LB........5-9.......150.......Soph. 85 Petyon Derry................WR/DB .......5-10.....130.......Soph.
2016 Outlook The Warriors just missed a state playoff berth last season after getting beaten 21-14 in week 10 by Salem. West Branch opens the first three weeks at home against Crestwood, Beaver Local and Ravenna Southeast. “The key will be getting off to a good start to the season and focusing on getting better each week,” Dota said.
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MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 33B
2015 OHSAA FOOTBALL COMPUTER RATINGS
COLUMBUS — The Ohio High School Athletic Association released its final computer ratings of the season on Sunday. The top eight in each region qualify for the playoffs, except in Division I where the top 16 teams in both regions advance: ——— DIVISION I Region 1—1. Lakewood St. Edward (9-1-0) 42.8, 2. Stow-Munroe Falls (10-0-0) 30.55, 3. Lewis Center Olentangy (9-1-0) 29.95, 4. Westerville Central (9-10) 29.9, 5. Euclid (8-2-0) 29.425, 6. Tol. Whitmer (82-0) 28.15, 7. Solon (8-2-0) 26.6448, 8. Mentor (7-3-0) 25.9141, 9. Canton GlenOak (7-3-0) 25.45, 10. Powell Olentangy Liberty (7-3-0) 24.35, 11. Canton McKinley (7-3-0) 23.5924, 12. Austintown-Fitch (7-3-0) 20.5786, 13. Tol. Start (9-1-0) 20.2531, 14. Elyria (6-4-0) 19.9, 15. Berea-Midpark (6-4-0) 16.9, 16. Cleveland Heights (4-5-0) 15.2222, 17. Strongsville (5-5-0) 14.95, 18. Massillon Jackson (55-0) 14.75, 19. Findlay (6-4-0) 13.8, 20. Lorain (5-50) 13.2035 Region 2 - 1. Cin. Colerain (9-1-0) 36.5, 2. Hilliard Davidson (9-1-0) 34.3, 3. Huber Hts. Wayne (10-0-0) 33.9125, 4. Lancaster (8-2-0) 30.45, 5. Cin. Elder (73-0) 30.0716, 6. Mason (8-2-0) 27.8273, 7. Pickerington Central (8-2-0) 27.6, 8. Gahanna Lincoln (7-3-0) 26.2026, 9. Cin. St. Xavier (6-4-0) 26.1742, 10. Upper Arlington (7-3-0) 24.9639, 11. Springboro (8-2-0) 24.6975, 12. Fairfield (8-2-0) 24.6, 13. Hilliard Darby (8-2-0) 23.15, 14. Reynoldsburg (7-3-0) 23.0364, 15. Grove City Central Crossing (7-3-0) 21.7232, 16. Dublin Coffman (7-3-0) 20.75, 17. West Chester Lakota West (7-3-0) 20.65, 18. Centerville (64-0) 19.35, 19. Beavercreek (7-3-0) 18.7455, 20. Dublin Jerome (6-4-0) 18.7 ——— DIVISION II Region 3 — 1. Aurora (9-1-0) 30.25, 2. Madison (9-1-0) 27.799, 3. Mayfield (9-1-0) 27.3, 4. Copley (91-0) 24.4, 5. Hudson (8-2-0) 23.35, 6. Chardon (8-20) 23.1348, 7. Warren G. Harding (7-3-0) 20.2204, 8. Macedonia Nordonia (7-3-0) 18.35, 9. Green (4-6-0) 17.05, 10. Maple Hts. (7-3-0) 16.2212, 11. Barberton (7-3-0) 12.9, 12. Brecksville-Broadview Hts. (7-3-0) 12.35 Region 4 — 1. Grafton Midview (10-0-0) 34.25, 2. Perrysburg (10-0-0) 32.15, 3. Avon (9-1-0) 28.4, 4. Cle. Glenville (9-1-0) 28.3288, 5. Holland Springfield (9-1-0) 25.9, 6. Medina Highland (6-4-0) 19.45, 7. North Ridgeville (7-3-0) 17.95, 8. Olmsted Falls (6-40) 14.2, 9. Tol. St. Johnʼs (6-4-0) 13.2, 10. North Olmsted (5-5-0) 10.4, 11. Sylvania Northview (5-5-0) 10.1, 12. Tol. Waite (5-5-0) 8.3133 Region 5 — 1. Massillon Perry (8-2-0) 31.4, 2. Pataskala Licking Hts. (9-1-0) 25.2051, 3. Worthington Kilbourne (9-1-0) 24.65, 4. Boardman (6-4-0) 23.498, 5. Dresden Tri-Valley (9-1-0) 23.2, 6. Uniontown Lake (6-4-0) 21.95, 7. Wooster (8-2-0) 21.85, 8. Mansfield Senior (8-2-0) 20.7, 9. Cols. Walnut Ridge (7-3-0) 19.7096, 10. Logan (8-2-0) 17.85, 11. Massillon Washington (4-6-0) 16.3409, 12. New Albany (64-0) 14.55 Region 6 — 1. Cin. La Salle (8-2-0) 37.6541, 2. Kings Mills Kings (9-1-0) 28.3, 3. Cin. Turpin (9-1-0) 27.9, 4. Miamisburg (9-1-0) 24.2874, 5. Lima Senior (8-2-0) 24.1, 6. Cin. Glen Este (8-2-0) 22.6283, 7.
Ashville Teays Valley (8-2-0) 21.75, 8. Vandalia Butler (7-3-0) 21.45, 9. Cin. Winton Woods (5-4-0) 21.399, 10. Harrison (7-3-0) 19.3, 11. Trenton Edgewood (7-3-0) 18.45, 12. Loveland (6-4-0) 15.95 ——— DIVISION III Region 7 — 1. Akron Archbishop Hoban (9-1-0) 32.75, 2. Akron St. Vincent-St Mary (9-1-0) 28.6536, 3. Medina Buckeye (10-0-0) 26.45, 4. Poland Seminary (9-1-0) 26.3, 5. Louisville (9-1-0) 26.2, 6. Chesterland West Geauga (9-1-0) 24.2408, 7. Canfield (8-2-0) 21.35, 8. New Philadelphia (8-2-0) 20.2, 9. Akron Buchtel (8-2-0) 20.003, 10. Painesville Harvey (6-4-0) 14.7847, 11. Alliance Marlington (6-4-0) 13.95, 12. Akron Coventry (5-5-0) 13.8 Region 8 — 1. Cle. Benedictine (10-0-0) 38.0263, 2. Tol. Central Cath. (8-2-0) 30.6133, 3. Clyde (9-1-0) 27.3, 4. Ashland (9-1-0) 25.75, 5. Bay Village Bay (91-0) 25.45, 6. Sandusky Perkins (8-2-0) 24.3, 7. Rocky River (8-2-0) 21.45, 8. Bowling Green (8-2-0) 20.65, 9. Cle. John Hay (8-2-0) 16.35, 10. Hunting Valley University School (7-3-0) 15.6974, 11. Elida (64-0) 13.55, 12. Mansfield Madison Comp. (5-5-0) 11.9 Region 9 — 1. Cols. Hamilton Township (8-2-0) 25.3626, 2. Cols. St. Francis DeSales (9-1-0) 23.9579, 3. Zanesville (9-1-0) 23.55, 4. Jackson (91-0) 21.8, 5. Bexley (8-2-0) 20.5697, 6. Cols. Beechcroft (7-2-0) 20.0805, 7. Chillicothe (7-3-0) 18.2, 8. Cols. Bishop Watterson (5-4-0) 17.4612, 9. Cols. Eastmoor Acad. (7-3-0) 17.2, 10. Cols. MarionFranklin (7-3-0) 16.9122, 11. Thornville Sheridan (73-0) 15.55, 12. Whitehall-Yearling (6-4-0) 15.0737 Region 10 — 1. Wapakoneta (10-0-0) 29.45, 2. Tipp City Tippecanoe (9-1-0) 28.8, 3. Trotwood-Madison (7-3-0) 26.25, 4. Cin. Mount Healthy (7-3-0) 21.35, 5. New Richmond (7-3-0) 20.8959, 6. Celina (7-3-0) 19.3, 7. Piqua (6-4-0) 16.75, 8. Dayton Belmont (7-2-0) 16.3142, 9. Goshen (7-3-0) 15.8459, 10. Mount Orab Western Brown (7-3-0) 14.8086, 11. St. Marys Memorial (6-4-0) 14.55, 12. Wilmington (7-30) 14.0 ——— DIVISION IV Region 11 — 1. Peninsula Woodridge (10-0-0) 26.7, 2. Perry (8-1-0) 25.1111, 3. Mantua Crestwood (8-2-0) 21.7, 4. Chardon Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin (7-3-0) 18.15, 5. Youngstown Ursuline (5-5-0) 17.2378, 6. Cortland Lakeview (7-3-0) 16.95, 7. Parma Hts. Holy Name (7-3-0) 16.95, 8. Oberlin Firelands (8-2-0) 16.2, 9. Streetsboro (7-3-0) 15.75, 10. Mogadore Field (7-3-0) 15.15, 11. Youngstown Cardinal Mooney (4-5-0) 14.52, 12. Beloit West Branch (7-3-0) 14.45 Region 12 — 1. Cols. Bishop Hartley (6-3-0) 24.1275, 2. Wauseon (9-1-0) 21.4758, 3. Plain City Jonathan Alder (9-1-0) 21.0172, 4. Lewistown Indian Lake (8-2-0) 17.7909, 5. Ottawa-Glandorf (7-3-0) 17.4, 6. Springfield Kenton Ridge (7-3-0) 16.6313, 7. Bellevue (8-2-0) 15.9, 8. Port Clinton (7-3-0) 14.95, 9. Lima Bath (7-3-0) 14.95, 10. Napoleon (6-4-0) 12.8, 11. Caledonia River Valley (6-4-0) 12.3955, 12. Sparta Highland (6-4-0) 12.2 Region 13 — 1. Steubenville (9-0-0) 35.6782, 2. Johnstown-Monroe (10-0-0) 31.9187, 3. St. Clairsville (8-1-0) 26.1553, 4. Gnadenhutten Indian Valley (9-1-
0) 20.05, 5. Salem (9-1-0) 18.95, 6. Newark Licking Valley (6-4-0) 16.0788, 7. Byesville Meadowbrook (91-0) 15.3, 8. Wintersville Indian Creek (7-3-0) 14.9464, 9. Carroll Bloom-Carroll (6-4-0) 14.6, 10. Zanesville Maysville (8-2-0) 13, 11. Heath (5-5-0) 10.9704, 12. Shelby (5-5-0) 9.55, 14. Beaver Local (5-5) 7.8592, 21. East Liverpool (3-7) 3.5333, 27. Minerva (0-10) 0.0000. Region 14 — 1. Middletown Bishop Fenwick (100-0) 30.05, 2. Cin. Indian Hill (10-0-0) 27.4747, 3. Clarksville Clinton-Massie (9-1-0) 24.4985, 4. Kettering Archbishop Alter (9-1-0) 23.2, 5. Reading (9-1-0) 20.7162, 6. Cin. Taft (7-2-0) 20.4444, 7. Cin. Wyoming (8-2-0) 19.9724, 8. Hamilton Badin (7-3-0) 17.3379, 9. Monroe (6-4-0) 16.1, 10. Day. Oakwood (5-5-0) 14.65, 11. Circleville Logan Elm (6-4-0) 14.15, 12. Middletown Madison (7-3-0) 13.9 ——— DIVISION V Region 15 — 1. Columbiana Crestview (8-2-0) 21.5, 2. Magnolia Sandy Valley (9-1-0) 19.65, 3. Canton Central Cath. (7-3-0) 18.75, 4. Orwell Grand Valley (7-2-0) 18.113, 5. Leavittsburg LaBrae (8-2-0) 15.35, 6. Gates Mills Hawken (8-2-0) 14.2247, 7. East Palestine (7-3-0) 13.7, 8. Burton Berkshire (6-4-0) 13.45, 9. Massillon Tuslaw (6-4-0) 11.65, 10. Akron Manchester (5-5-0) 10.9, 11. South Range (6-4-0) 10.85, 12. Garrettsville Garfield (7-3-0) 10.2665 Region 16 — 1. Milan Edison (9-1-0) 25.75, 2. Creston Norwayne (9-1-0) 23, 3. Millbury Lake (10-00) 21.25, 4. Swanton (9-1-0) 19.8, 5. Apple Creek Waynedale (7-3-0) 19.1, 6. Doylestown Chippewa (82-0) 18.05, 7. Rossford (8-2-0) 16.95, 8. Galion (7-20) 14.8889, 9. Findlay Liberty-Benton (6-4-0) 12.05, 10. Elyria Cath. (6-4-0) 10.95, 11. West Salem Northwestern (5-5-0) 9.9, 12. Archbold (4-6-0) 8.35 Region 17 — 1. Wheelersburg (10-0-0) 26.5192, 2. Chillicothe Zane Trace (10-0-0) 23.35, 3. Albany Alexander (9-1-0) 22.6, 4. West Lafayette Ridgewood (9-1-0) 16.9, 5. Cadiz Harrison Central (8-2-0) 15.1402, 6. Ironton Rock Hill (6-3-0) 14.5556, 7. Bidwell River Valley (7-3-0) 13.603, 8. Ironton (6-4-0) 13.2566, 9. Coshocton (7-3-0) 12.9455, 10. Oak Hill (6-4-0) 12.149, 11. McDermott Northwest (7-3-0) 11.1724, 12. Sugarcreek Garaway (6-4-0) 8.8 Region 18 — 1. Brookville (10-0-0) 25.7, 2. Cin. Hills Christian Acad. (9-1-0) 23.85, 3. Coldwater (100-0) 22.05, 4. West Milton Milton-Union (6-4-0) 14.5, 5. Jamestown Greeneview (7-3-0) 12.85, 6. BethelTate (6-3-0) 11.7778, 7. Richwood North Union (5-50) 10.7354, 8. Carlisle (6-4-0) 10.55, 9. Cin. Shroder (5-5-0) 10.3063, 10. Cin. Aiken (6-4-0) 8.9063, 11. Springfield Northwestern (6-4-0) 8.1035, 12. Cin. Clark Montessori (5-5-0) 7.5868 ——— DIVISION VI Region 19 — 1. Kirtland (9-1-0) 22.6374, 2. Columbia Station Columbia (10-0-0) 20.6, 3. Columbiana (9-1-0) 19, 4. Lisbon (9-1-0) 18.55, 5. Brookfield (9-1-0) 16.45, 6. Cuyahoga Hts. (8-2-0) 15.85, 7. Smithville (7-3-0) 15.55, 8. Berlin Center Western Reserve (8-2-0) 15.4, 9. McDonald (7-3-0) 13.8106, 10. Jeromesville Hillsdale (6-4-0) 13.15, 11. Louisville St. Thomas Aquinas (6-4-0) 11.2, 12. New Middletown Springfield (4-6-0) 9.75, 19. United (2-
8) 2.95, 25. Southern Local (2-8) 1.6091. Region 20 — 1. Bucyrus Wynford (9-1-0) 21.15, 2. Defiance Tinora (8-1-0) 21.0293, 3. North Robinson Colonel Crawford (9-1-0) 18.65, 4. Gibsonburg (100-0) 16.9, 5. Van Buren (7-3-0) 14.5, 6. Defiance Ayersville (8-2-0) 14.3265, 7. Attica Seneca East (8-2-0) 14.1, 8. Delta (6-4-0) 13.4086, 9. Liberty Center (6-40) 11.5394, 10. Bascom Hopewell-Loudon (6-4-0) 10.8, 11. Hamler Patrick Henry (5-5-0) 9.8783, 12. Northwood (6-4-0) 9.45 Region 21 — 1. Beverly Fort Frye (10-0-0) 21.7803, 2. Lucasville Valley (8-1-0) 21.2778, 3. Grandview Hts. (9-1-0) 21.0182, 4. Bainbridge Paint Valley (9-1-0) 20.65, 5. Newark Cath. (8-2-0) 17.2173, 6. Hannibal River (9-1-0) 16.6333, 7. Chesapeake (82-0) 16.4793, 8. Fredericktown (8-2-0) 15.6732, 9. Cols. Bishop Ready (6-4-0) 15.1727, 10. Woodsfield Monroe Central (6-4-0) 12.3005, 11. Barnesville (7-30) 12.0444, 12. Steubenville Cath. Central (6-4-0) 11.7184 Region 22 — 1. Maria Stein Marion Local (9-1-0) 20.0146, 2. Mechanicsburg (10-0-0) 19.9, 3. Delphos Jefferson (9-1-0) 19.15, 4. Cin. Country Day (9-1-0) 19.0031, 5. West Liberty-Salem (8-2-0) 17.6, 6. Spencerville (9-1-0) 17.15, 7. Williamsburg (8-2-0) 16.118, 8. Casstown Miami East (8-2-0) 15.4237, 9. Bluffton (7-3-0) 14.65, 10. Lewisburg Tri-County North (7-3-0) 12.347, 11. Fayetteville-Perry (7-2-0) 12.2083, 12. St. Henry (6-4-0) 10.5 ——— DIVISION VII Region 23 — 1. Warren John F. Kennedy (9-1-0) 21.1, 2. Mogadore (9-1-0) 19.5082, 3. Norwalk St. Paul (9-1-0) 15.55, 4. Toronto (9-1-0) 12.1265, 5. Vienna Mathews (6-2-0) 11.8083, 6. Monroeville (6-4-0) 8.7, 7. North Jackson Jackson-Milton (7-3-0) 8.5601, 8. Sandusky St. Mary Central Cath. (6-4-0) 8.2, 9. Windham (6-4-0) 7.4717, 10. Wellsville (5-5-0) 7.35, 11. Greenwich South Central (4-6-0) 6.05, 12. Malvern (4-6-0) 5.75, 22. Leetonia (1-9) 1.2133, 24. Sebring (1-9) 1.0571 Region 24 – 1. McComb (9-1-0) 18.5, 2. Hicksville (8-2-0) 14.6316, 3. Lucas (8-1-0) 14.3217, 4. Leipsic (5-5-0) 9.7, 5. Arlington (5-5-0) 7.8, 6. West Unity Hilltop (6-4-0) 7.301, 7. Tiffin Calvert (5-5-0) 6.85, 8. Convoy Crestview (4-6-0) 6.25, 9. Pandora-Gilboa (5-5-0) 6.2, 10. New Washington Buckeye Central (5-5-0) 5.6, 11. Lakeside Danbury (3-7-0) 4.75, 12. Rawson Cory-Rawson (4-6-0) 4.4 Region 25 – 1. Danville (10-0-0) 18.8485, 2. Caldwell (9-1-0) 16.1, 3. Glouster Trimble (8-2-0) 15.1737, 4. Canal Winchester Harvest Prep. (8-2-0) 12.896, 5. Belpre (8-2-0) 12.8, 6. Shadyside (4-6-0) 10.8284, 7. Portsmouth Sciotoville (6-4-0) 9.8041, 8. Crown City South Gallia (6-4-0) 9.5242, 9. Willow Wood Symmes Valley (6-4-0) 8.6276, 11. Corning Miller (6-4-0) 8.0278, 12. Waterford (5-5-0) 6.346 Region 26 – 1. Minster (8-2-0) 16.9, 2. Covington (8-2-0) 16.2318, 3. Fort Recovery (8-2-0) 14.15, 4. DeGraff Riverside (9-1-0) 13.1, 5. Ada (6-4-0) 12.25, 6. Cin. Miami Valley Christian Acad. (8-1-0) 11.2605, 7. Sidney Lehman Cath. (6-4-0) 9.9, 8. Fort Loramie (6-4-0) 9.6, 9. McGuffey Upper Scioto Valley (6-4-0) 8.95, 10. Troy Christian (5-4-0) 5.3889, 11. Bradford (4-6-0) 4.2804, 12. Springfield Cath. Central (4-6-0) 4.0747.
34B • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
Aerial photo courtesy of Lance Leininger
Right after Salem hosted the Division II district track and field meet in May, Reilly Stadium was dug up for a new artificial turf football field.
Good Luck Salem Football!!!
GOOD LUCK SALEM QUAKERS from.... Morris Financial Group Have a Safe and Successful Season
~ ALL SEASON STRUCTURES ~ Carports $695 + tax installed and delivered Old hickory Shed 8x12 $72.92 month + tax
Good Luck Quakers Mon. – Sat. 10:00 to 5:00 Kim Henderson 330-323-3970
2762 E State St Salem OH
MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 35B
36B • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
New turf at Reilly Stadium Salem seniors Andrew Irwin (left) and Kobe Leininger check out the Quakers’ new artificial turf field at Reilly Stadium. They will have to wait a while longer to play on it since the Quakers’ first home game is Sept. 9 against East Liverpool.
Morning Journal/Wayne Maris
MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 37B
Morning Journal/Wayne Maris
Reilly Stadium, where the Salem Quakers have been playing home football games since 1915, sports a new artificial turf surface. The $835,000 project completed this summer includes a new Sprinturf field and all-weather track. The first game on the new field will be against East Liverpool on Sept. 9.
460 S. Ellsworth Ave.
Salem, Ohio
330-332-1888
38B • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
Morning Journal/Wayne Maris
The new artificial turf field at Reilly Stadium in Salem is ready for the 2016 high school football season to kick off.
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MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 • 39B
40B • MORNING JOURNAL • HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2016 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016