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TOUCHDOWN 2018 THURSDAY, AUGUST 23, 2018 | THEHERALD-NEWS.COM

BORN TO LEAD Youngest Hayes sibling ready to take over Knightsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; offense / 14-15

PRECEDENT SETTING

Soucie: Area teams accounted for 23 playoff victories last year / PAGE 2

TEAM PREVIEWS

A preseason breakdown of all the local football teams / PAGES 3-15 AND 18-27

HEAVY EXPERIENCE

Lincoln-Way West returns 4 starters on stingy offensive line / PAGE 20

The Herald-News/TheHerald-News.com • Thursday, August 23, 2018

TOUCHDOWN 2018

Area teams set quite a precedent last year VIEWS Steve Soucie The first question I asked Lincoln-Way East coach Rob Zvonar on my visit to see the Griffins during the preseason was simple. “What do you do for an encore?” A valid question indeed considering the season the Griffins completed in 2017, maneuvering their way through a loaded schedule to go undefeated and then plowing through a stacked Class 8A field to win the title. Zvonar provides an answer to my question later in this section. But that question got me thinking, what does the area do for an encore? Eleven area teams punched their tickets into the postseason. They accounted for 23 playoff victories, one state champion, an additional state finalist and a whopping six other teams that reached at least the quarterfinals. That’s quite a precedent that will require quite an impressive follow-up to meet. Can this year’s crop of teams live up to the gauntlet laid down before them? Only time and multiple games will answer that question, but there’s plenty of reason to believe it could happen. Lincoln-Way East certainly is a threat to win the Class 8A state title again, despite losing loads of incredible talent to graduation. Even with that in mind, the cupboard is far from bare, especially with explosive junior running back A.J. Henning still in the fold. It is hard to imagine a scenario in which Lincoln-Way East isn’t in the conversation for the top team in the state.

Shaw Media file photo

Lincoln-Way East celebrates its Class 8A semifinal win over Maine South on Nov. 18 at Lincoln-Way East High School in Frankfort. Odds are that East won’t be the only school in Lincoln-Way High School District 210 making waves this season. Both Lincoln-Way Central and Lincoln-Way West were quarterfinalists in Class 7A, narrowly missing the chance on both ends of squaring off in the semifinals against one another. Both teams have their eyes on big prizes this season, too. Lincoln-Way West’s potentially lethal backfield will be a huge challenge, and Lincoln-Way Central’s has been consistently building a team to be reckoned with. The Cinderella story of last year’s Class 8A playoffs, Minooka, is hoping that was the

first step to bigger and better things. Minooka won back-toback overtime contests in exciting fashion, and that good feeling continues to resonate through the program. It’s the last year for the Suburban Prairie Conference in its current 10-team form. Yorkville and West Aurora join the league next season, and the teams will be split into divisions. It will end the 10-team format in which squads play only conference teams all season unless they earn a playoff berth. The conference looks like more of a free-for-all than ever this season with all of the combatants chasing the league stalwart in Oswego.

The Panthers are the favorite once again, but the battles every week in this league should be fierce. There’s talent up and down each of the teams, and nobody gets a night off in Suburban Prairie play this season. Intriguing rebuilding processes are going on for two programs that are synonymous with success. Providence Catholic sent 16 players off to play college football from last year’s graduating class, but it is foolish to dismiss the Celtics because of that. Lemont, which seems to rack up double-digit wins on a yearly basis, also needs to retool a bit. Like Providence, Lemont almost certainly will

Index Joliet Central.................................. 3 Joliet West...................................... 4 Joliet Catholic................................ 6 Providence..................................... 9 Plainfield South............................ 11 Plainfield Central..........................13 Cover story....................................14 Morris.............................................16

be heard from before all is said and done. Morris was a whisper away from capturing a state title and hopes to make another run at the crown this season. Some key personnel graduated, but if Morris can survive a brutal Northern Illinois Big 12 schedule in their final run in the league (They will join the Interstate Eight next season.) and remain in Class 4A for the postseason, anything could happen. And I can’t wait to see which teams are making a curtain call this season.

• Steve Soucie can be reached at ssoucie@shawmedia.com.

ON THE COVER Plainfield East ..............................17 Plainfield North ............................17 Lincoln-Way Central....................18 Lincoln-Way East.........................19 Bolingbrook...................................19 Lincoln-Way West.......................20 Romeoville.................................... 22 Lockport........................................ 23

Minooka .......................................24 Coal City ......................................26 Lemont..........................................26 Wilmington...................................26 Peotone......................................... 27 Dwight.......................................... 27 Reed-Custer................................. 27 Seneca.......................................... 27

The youngest Hayes sibling, Bryce, earned the starting quarterback job over the offseason is ready to take over Lincoln-Way Central’s offense.

See story on Pages 14-15. Eric Ginnard – eginnard@shawmedia.com

JOLIET CENTRAL

Joliet Central ready to roll with loads of experience

By STEVE SOUCIE ssoucie@shawmedia.com

OLIET – It would be easy to jump to the conclusion that Joliet Central is in great need of a confidence boost heading into the 2018 season. After all, the Steelmen went 0-9 a year ago, and didn’t come within 22 points of recording a victory. But coach Brett Boyter isn’t necessarily buying into the whole needing a confidence boost theory. “We went into last season with basically about two returning starters,” Boyter said. “I don’t think these kids are coming in here with a negative frame of mind. We needed experience, and we got a lot of it.” And since a number of inexperienced players were thrust into roles that maybe they weren’t prepared for, this year’s unit returns a squad full of experience, and that’s immediately changed the outlook. “We’ve still got a lot to learn and work on,” Boyter said. “But we’re further along.” Boyter expected the biggest void he’d have to fill in composing this year’s roster would be replacing four-year starter at quarterback Zach Wisneski, now at Robert Morris University. And while the leadership and experience void is felt, Boyter is thrilled with the progress of Wisneski’s replacement, Jared King. “We’ll miss Zach, without question,” Boyter said. “But the great thing about Jared is that he’s stepped right in. He’s been doing things like directing the scout team and just doing all the things that he should be doing to help in that regard.” King likely won’t be the aerial Brett Boyter threat that Wisneski was. But King brings other things to the table that could make him a viable threat. “He’s a guy who can make things happen for us,” Boyter said. “If something breaks down, he can make a play with his legs too.” And where last year’s team didn’t have a lot of experience on either side of the ball, plenty of reps are back from the offensive line, led by Alexan-

Larry W. Kane for Shaw Media

Joliet Central quarterback Jared King (right) hands off the Joseph Carroll (center) on Aug. 6 at Joliet Central High School. der Gregurich. The backfield is yet to be sorted out but has been bolstered by the addition of some transfer students. Even with Wisneski’s prolific passing, the offense struggled to post points. The Steelmen were shut out five times last season and only posted more than two touchdowns in one game all season (22 points vs. Romeoville in Week 9). They were shut out in each of the first three games of the season; early offensive success would be a huge boost for the squad. “We played tentative a lot,” Boyter said. “You can’t play fast if you are unsure of what you have to do next. We are coming along pretty well there.” The biggest challenge facing Joliet Central’s quest to get back to respectability will be shoring up its defensive unit. Only one opponent failed to score 40-plus points against Joliet Central last year, but with seven

Inside the Steelmen Schedule Coach: Brett Boyter (2-52 in six years at Joliet Central) 2017 record: 0-9, 0-9 Southwest Prairie Classification enrollment: 3,233 (Class 8A) players returning on that side of the ball and several others that obtained at least some playing time, Boyter is confident his team will be more prepared for the task at hand. Joliet Central’s schedule might give it an opportunity to start better this season. The Steelmen open with Romeoville (2-7 in 2018) and Plainfield East (1-8). Although neither game is a guarantee, Boyter expects his team to produce much better results in the early going than it did in 2017. “We were simply not prepared for Plainfield East last year (42-0 loss in Week 1), we were so inexperienced in a lot of places. We did not compete

AUGUST 24: at Romeoville, 7 p.m. 31: vs. Plainfield East, 6:30 p.m. SEPTEMBER 7: vs. Minooka, 6:30 p.m. 14: at Oswego East, 7 p.m. 22: vs. Plainfield Central, 1 p.m. 28: at Plainfield South, 7 p.m. OCTOBER 5: Plainfield North, 6:30 p.m. 12: at Oswego, 7 p.m. 19: vs. Joliet West, 7 p.m. in that football game,” Boyter said. “I expect us to do a much better job of competing this season, and that’s what has to happen. Those early games are games we feel like we can win, but the biggest part for us, win or lose, is that we have to compete all the time. Sometimes we did not do that last season.”

TOUCHDOWN 2018 The Herald-News/TheHerald-News.com • Thursday, August 23, 2018

Steelmen look to bounce back

The Herald-News/TheHerald-News.com • Thursday, August 23, 2018

TOUCHDOWN 2018

Larry W. Kane for Shaw Media

ABOVE: Joliet West’s new coach Bill Lech talks to his players after practice Aug. 7 at Joliet West High School. BELOW: Joliet West’s DJ Dobbs catches a pass during drills Aug. 7.

JOLIET WEST

New leadership prepares Tigers Inside the Tigers

By STEVE SOUCIE ssoucie@shawmedia.com

OLIET – The Joliet West football program has advanced to the playoffs in three of the past four seasons, including last year’s 5-5 campaign. That’s the good. Despite that accomplishment, the Tigers’ ability to advance further has eluded them to date. The school has never won a playoff game. “Our kids are competitive, and they want to win. I think it is just a matter of us putting them in a position where they can win and be successful,” Joliet West coach Bill Lech said. With that being said, how do the Tigers take the next step? “That’s where character comes up,” Lech said. “When you have character breakdowns, that’s a difference maker. We talked about being medio-

Coach: Bill Lech (first year at Joliet West) 2017 record: 5-5, 5-4 Southwest Prairie Conference Classification enrollment: 3,310 (Class 8A)

cre. We bring up 5-5. They need to be reminded of that. That can’t be acceptable.” Lech will look to an experienced offensive line

to provide an anchor for the offense. Returning bookend tackles Nae Allen and Joseph Signorlie provide the core, and junior center Anthony Peterson should be steady, as well. The Tigers started a junior quarterback and 2,000yard passer in Jaxon Aubry last season. But Aubry, and his father, former coach Jason Aubry, departed the program in the offseason. They landed at Larkin. Alfonso Sanchez will assume the role of quarterback for the Tigers.

See TIGERS, page 5

Schedule

• TIGERS Continued from page 4 “He’s learning every day,” Lech said. “He has some good days. We’re still figuring out exactly what best suits him right now.” Lech classifies his backfield as something of a three-headed monster. He’s not sure which of the trio that includes Ian Ray, Devion Wilson and Jaylen Taylor stands out most. “They are all kind of cut from the same mold,” Lech said of his running backs. “We’re hopefully going to have one or two of them step to the forefront.” The defensive side of the ball shows plenty of promise, Lech said. “Defense is probably our strength right now. We’ve got some big strong guys up front, and we’ve got some guys in the secondary that can run and cover,” Lech said. “Our best athletes are going to be on defense. Philosophically, that’s what I believe; I believe if we can stop people, we’re going to be in a position to have success.” Tyler Barnette is one of the leaders in the secondary, while Brad Hyde should provide a solid anchor for the defensive line. Ovahdyah Ben-Israel also could be a real asset for Joliet West up front. “I’m not sure he’s aware yet of what he’s capable of being,” Lech said of Ben-Israel. Lech believes his team can be in the mix in the Southwest Prairie Conference race, but knows some things have to fall into place for that to happen. “I think right now mentally we understand what we are trying to do. We’re still kind of playing slow; we aren’t playing as fast as we could be,” Lech said. “There always seems to be a point where teams just get it. We’re not there yet. We’ll lean heavily on our seniors; they deserve that chance.” Larry W. Kane for Shaw Media

TOP RIGHT: Joliet West quarterback Alfonso Sanchez works on passing drills Aug. 7 at Joliet West High School. RIGHT: Joliet West’s Marius Small (right) catches a pass Aug. 7.

‘‘

Our kids are competitive, and they want to win. I just think it is a matter of us putting them in a position where they can be successful.” Bill Lech, Joliet West coach

5 TOUCHDOWN 2018 The Herald-News/TheHerald-News.com • Thursday, August 23, 2018

AUGUST 24: at Plainfield North, 7 p.m. 31: vs. Oswego East, 6:30 p.m. SEPTEMBER 7: at Plainfield South, 7 p.m. 15: vs. Oswego, 1 p.m. 21: at Romeoville, 7 p.m. 28: vs. Plainfield East, 7 p.m. OCTOBER 6: at Plainfield Central, 1 p.m. 12: vs. Minooka, 7 p.m. 19: at Joliet Central, 7 p.m.

The Herald-News/TheHerald-News.com • Thursday, August 23, 2018

TOUCHDOWN 2018

6 JOLIET CATHOLIC ACADEMY

Hilltoppers primed to get back on track Experienced offensive line gives Joliet Catholic anchor up front Inside the Hilltoppers

By STEVE SOUCIE ssoucie@shawmedia.com

Coach: Jake Jaworksi (Second year as coach) 2017 record: 3-6, 2-5 East Suburban Catholic Conference Classification enrollment: 1,032.9 (Class 5A)

Larry W. Kane for Shaw Media

Joliet Catholic Academy coach Jake Jaworski keeps an eye on practice Aug. 6.

Schedule AUGUST 24: vs. St. Rita, 7:30 p.m. 31: at IC Catholic, 7:15 p.m. SEPTEMBER 7: at St. Viator, 7 p.m. 14: vs. Carmel, 7 p.m. 21: at Marist, 7 p.m. 28: vs. Benet, 7 p.m. OCTOBER 5: vs. Marian Catholic, 7 p.m. 12: at Nazareth Academy, 7 p.m. 19: at Niles Notre Dame, 7 p.m.

OLIET – The past two seasons have not met the standard for the Joliet Catholic football program. But the trials and tribulations that the team has struggled through may very well have laid the foundation for something considerably better this time around. “For kind of the past two years, especially for those that were out there as sophomores, some of those kids were out there and their heads were spinning. Game experience, especially in our conference, comes at you fast,” Joliet Catholic coach Jake Jaworski said. “Now, for some of those guys, the game is starting to slow down. Now you can execute, now you can play at full speed and just be a football player. We are definitely making strides, and we feel good about where we are headed.” An experienced and huge offensive line should give the Hilltoppers an excellent place to start. Four of the five linemen, including Purdue commit tackle Dave Monnot, provide a base that few can rival. Center Ryan Laule, tackle Collin Cox and guard Ty O’Janovac join Monnot on the front line. “We’ve got a lot of experience,” Laule said. “A lot of us know exactly what is going on in every situation. It’s go time for us. This is it.” That line should provide ample opportunity for the Hilltoppers to return their double wing attack back to the level Joliet Catholic is

Larry W. Kane for Shaw Media

Joliet Catholic Academy’s Keenan Hailey practices catching punts Aug. 6 at Joliet Catholic Academy. accustomed to. “It’s a group that is very good, but thin,” Jaworski said. “And some of those guys will be helping us out on the defensive side of the ball, too. Too big, too strong and too athletic to be standing over there on the sideline.” Keenan Hailey returns for his

third season in the backfield and moves into the halfback position. Hailey ran for a team-best 942 yards last season and looks primed for a big season. Joining him in the back field is a talented runner in junior Kenyetta Williams. Williams

See HILLTOPPERS, page 7

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• HILLTOPPERS

Continued from page 6

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See HILLTOPPERS, page 8

Joliet Catholic Academy quarterback Jordan Alvarez passes during practice Aug. 6 at Joliet Catholic Academy.

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TOUCHDOWN 2018 The Herald-News/TheHerald-News.com • Thursday, August 23, 2018

already is drawing Division I attention. Yet another viable threat for the Hilltoppers is fullback Nick Iannantone. Although he touched the ball only three times last season, he ran for 120 yards and two scores on those three touches. “He’s an intriguing guy on our offense,” Jaworski said of Iannatone. “He’s a big-bodied kid who can run. He made some great strides in the weight room, as well.” Jordan Alvarez will assume the role of quarterback. Jaworski appreciates the flexibility of what he provides. “He’s kind of a dual-threat kind of guy who fits perfectly into what we do,” Jaworski said. “He also adds another dimension that we haven’t had in a couple of years that we haven’t had here.” The defense isn’t lacking for experience, either. The defensive line will be solid with the return of defensive tackle Andrew Gorski and defensive ends Ryan Jones and Scott Fosen. Further reinforcements come from the offensive

• HILLTOPPERS

The Herald-News/TheHerald-News.com • Thursday, August 23, 2018

TOUCHDOWN 2018

Continued from page 7

‘‘

We’ll probably have one of the more athletic secondaries that we’ve ever had. It’s a very versatile defense, as well.” Jake Jaworski, Joliet Catholic Academy coach

Larry W. Kane for Shaw Media

Joliet Catholic Academy’s Regis Shelby-Woods practices punt returns Aug. 6 at Joliet Catholic Academy.

line core. Junior Fernando Chavez is the field general of the defense from his linebacker position, while the secondary will be heavily supplemented from the play of Kurt Weis and Mundo Meyer. “We’ll probably have one of the more athletic secondaries than we’ve ever had,” Jaworski said. “It’s a very versatile defense, as well.” Even with all of the experience that the Hilltoppers have returning, they are well aware of the treachery that resides in their schedule. The season starts with nonconference matchups with St. Rita and IC Catholic, both extremely capable foes, and then the East Suburban Catholic Conference schedule provides matchups with top-flight teams such as Marist, Nazareth and Benet. All that adds up to little room for mishap for the Hilltoppers. “We have to be more consistent,” Jaworski said. “It’s never talking about winning. It’s about doing the little things right, doing your job right 100 percent of the time, which is going to continue to build toward results. With that, the wins will come.”

JCA...A TRADITION. JCA...A TRADITION OF ACADEMIC SUCCESS

1 in 6 students from the Class of 2018 was an Illinois State Scholar Average ACT score was 27.1 for the top 50% of of the Class of 2018 67% of the Class of 2018 earned $15 million total in college scholarships

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PROVIDENCE CATHOLIC

Celtics want to set ground game early Inside the Celtics Coach: Mark Coglianese ( 86-53 in 12 years at Providence Catholic) 2017 record: 8-5, 2-2 Chicago Catholic League Blue Classification enrollment: 1,537.8 (Class 6A)

Schedule AUGUST 25: vs. Lockport, 6 p.m., at NIU 31: vs. Morgan Park, 7:30 p.m. SEPTEMBER 7: vs. St. Laurence, 7:30 p.m. 14: at St. Rita, 7:30 p.m. 21: vs. Brother Rice, 7:30 p.m. 28: vs. Hope Academy, 7:30 p.m. OCTOBER 5: at Mount Carmel, 7:30 p.m. 12: Montini, 7:30 p.m. 20: at Loyola, 1 p.m.

Galligani, Renfro figure to anchor offensive line By ALLAN SCARABELLO Shaw Media correspondent

EW LENOX – Providence Catholic has a rich football tradition of enjoying a lot of success. Last year was no exception for the Celtics, who reached the Class 6A semifinals before falling to Nazareth Academy. But if the Celtics are to make a similar run, coach Mark Coglianese will need to do it with many new faces, as 16 players graduated and went on to play college football. Despite the experience graduating, Coglianese believes his team can make noise, and that starts with his returning offensive linemen Jake Renfro and TJ Galligani. The pair figures to anchor a running game that will need to be strong for the Celtics to have success.

“The running game will be a strength for us. ... If we can run the ball and control the clock, that would be big for us.” Mark Coglianese Providence Catholic coach “We’re hoping that’s a bit of a strength with Renfro and Galligani back,” Coglianese said. “The running game will be a strength for us. The passing game seems to take a bit [to get going]. If we can run the ball and control the clock, that would be big for us.” The veteran coach will look to tailbacks Brenden Martus and Aaron Vaughn Jr. to carry the load on the ground, as explosive running back DeShon Gavin moved on to

Western Illinois. “Martus is a captain who brings a lot of leadership,” Coglianese said. “He’s very elusive.” Vaughn is a freshman the Celtics are excited about. “He’s very mature, not really big, but put together,” Coglianese said. “He has good instincts and is a tough kid. He’s a kid who we think is going to have a great career with us.”

See CELTICS, page 10

TOUCHDOWN 2018 The Herald-News/TheHerald-News.com • Thursday, August 23, 2018

Providence Catholic’s Brenden Martus (center) takes the handoff from quarterback Kevin Conway (right) during practice Aug. 7 at Providence Catholic High School in New Lenox.

The Herald-News/TheHerald-News.com • Thursday, August 23, 2018

TOUCHDOWN 2018

• CELTICS Continued from page 9 While Providence is excited about its running backs, it still is trying to figure out who will be handing off the ball to them. Sophomore Kevin Conway and senior Logan Phillips have been sharing reps to see who will start the opening week. Sophomore Mike Alvarado, senior Scott Marmo and juniors Lucas Porto and Jerrell Wright should all see time at wide receiver. On the other side of the ball, Max Pignotti is the only returning starter. He will play safety and will be expected to lead the defense in an extremely rigorous Catholic League Blue schedule. “He’s someone we’re going to look to to do a lot of things, calls or adjustments on defense,” Coglianese said. “He was voted a captain for us. That’s an honor. We’ll be depending on him quite a bit.” Antonio Tuminello, Brennan Geers and Elias Valdez all are expected to be key contributors on defense. The Celtics will open against Lockport and Morgan Park before heading into conference play. “The first couple games are nonconference, and getting off on the right foot is important, because the Catholic League Blue schedule looms,” Coglianese said. “We’re good, but so is everyone we play.”

Larry W. Kane for Shaw Media

Providence Catholic quarterback Kevin Conway (center) throws during practice Aug. 7 at Providence Catholic High School in New Lenox.

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JCA...A TRADITION OF DEDICATED FACULTY Personally invested in the success of every student Partnered with parents to educate students in all aspects of life

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11 TOUCHDOWN 2018 The Herald-News/TheHerald-News.com • Thursday, August 23, 2018 Larry W. Kane for Shaw Media

Plainfield South’s Alex Lekovish reaches for a pass Aug. 6 at Plainfield South High School.

PLAINFIELD SOUTH

Cougars buying in to new mentality Inside the Cougars Coach: Bill Bicker (5-10 in two years at Plainfield South) 2017 record: 4-5, 4-5 Southwest Prairie Conference Classification enrollment: 2,521 (Class 8A)

Schedule AUGUST 24: at Minooka, 7 p.m. 31: at Romeoville, 7 p.m. SEPTEMBER 7: vs. Joliet West, 7 p.m. 14: at Plainfield Central, 7 p.m. 21: vs. Oswego East, 7 p.m. 28: vs. Joliet Central, 7 p.m. OCTOBER 5: at Plainfield East, 7 p.m. 12: at Plainfield North, 7 p.m. 19: vs. Oswego, 7 p.m.

By JEFF De GRAW Shaw Media correspondent

LAINFIELD – Plainfield South was only three plays away from a playoff berth in 2017, and that has been the Cougars’ mantra since the end of the 4-5 campaign. After ending last season with a 10-7 win over playoff-bound Minooka, the Cougars started thinking about this season and those three plays, each costing them victories. “The second last season ended we brought the team together and showed them those three plays that were the difference,” coach Bill Bicker said. “We told them that those plays are made up from November to July. You have to be prepared for anything that happens in a game, and it’s the offseason preparation that makes the difference.” The returning players have taken that to heart and worked all offsea-

“We want to establish the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball. It all starts up front, and we want to be able to run the ball 40 to 50 times a game.” Bill Bicker, Plainfield South coach son in preparation for this season, Bicker said. “These kids bought in,” Bicker said. “From the weight room, to playing other sports and doing the right things in the classroom. You have to do everything right every day. It’s about the little things, and we are building on that mentality.” Bicker, who is starting his third year as coach, has an old-school coaching mentality. “We want to establish the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball,” Bicker said. “It all starts up front,

and we want to be able to run the ball 40 to 50 times a game. Even if you don’t score on drives, you change field position, and it takes time off the clock. You have to play to your strengths, and our’s is running the ball on offense and playing great defense because we have tough kids. “We are OK with running back depth, because when you think about it, we have three or four backs who share the load,” Bicker said. “We are not relying on one back

See COUGARS, page 12

• COUGARS Continued from page 11 to get 25 to 30 carries a game. Plus, we have Cody Dieball returning at quarterback, who is smart, runs the offense and can also run the ball. My philosophy is to take all the snaps under center; I’m not a big shotgun coach, and Cody does a great job of reading the defense.” One of those starters on the defensive line is senior Adriel Montemayor. He was part of last year’s defense that gave up only 132 points and recorded two shutouts. “The line is the heart of our defense,” Montemayor said. “We have some younger players this year, but they have bought in, and I expect us to have a great season. I don’t mind at all that either line usually doesn’t get much attention. We know what our job is, and I like the fact that we can make our skilled players look good. “When we beat Minooka in the final game last season, that showed us what we are capable of this season. That has stuck with us since that game.” In a twist of the schedule, the Cougars and Indians will meet in the opener at Minooka. “That will be a big opening game for both teams,” Bicker said. “Minooka wants to prove last year was a fluke, and we want to get off to a good start. They are an excellent program, and I’m expecting we will see the best they have. But that is what you need right away. We’ll be up for the challenge.” The Cougars will have four or five two-way players, Bicker said. One of those is senior Tanner Carr, who will be a part of both lines. Last year, Carr only played on the offensive side. “Both lines work well with each other, and we push each other to get better,” Carr said. “I can tell you that we will play hard every play, and the attitude is great. We are stronger than ever, and we are together.”

TOP: Plainfield South’s Joe Passo drops back to pass Aug. 6 at Plainfield South High School. ABOVE: Plainfield South coach Bill Bicker keeps an eye on practice Aug. 6. LEFT: Plainfield South’s Zack Sihweil catches a pass Aug. 6. Photos by Larry W. Kane for Shaw Media

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TOUCHDOWN 2018

PLAINFIELD CENTRAL

Inside the Wildcats Coach: Jon Pereiro (4-14 in two years at Plainfield Central) 2017 record: 4-5, 4-5 Southwest Prairie Conference Classification enrollment: 2,066 (Class 7A)

Larry W. Kane For Shaw Media

Plainfield Central’s Brandon Shoemaker practices catching punt returns Aug. 13 at Plainfield Central High School.

Schedule AUGUST 24: at Oswego, 7 p.m. 31: at Plainfield North, 7 p.m. SEPTEMBER 7: at Plainfield East, 7 p.m. 14: vs. Plainfield South, 7 p.m. 21: at Joliet Central, 1 p.m. 28: vs. Minooka, 7 p.m. OCTOBER 6: vs. Joliet West, 1 p.m. 12: at Oswego East, 7 p.m. 19: vs. Romeoville, 7 p.m.

By JEFF De GRAW

Plainfield Central players take part in a tackling drill Aug. 13 at Plainfield Central High School. After missing the playoffs last year, the Wildcats are looking for an elusive fifth win.

Shaw Media correspondent

LAINFIELD – As most high school football programs have found, success begins with baby steps. However, Plainfield Central took more than baby steps last year as it fell one win short of qualifying for the playoffs for the first time since 2012 after finishing with a record of 4-5. The four-win season has totally changed the outlook and culture for the Wildcats as they prepare for the 2018 season, as the team excised a lengthy losing streak with those four victories. “We are so excited about this season,” third-year coach Jon Pereiro said. “The commitment as a team is incredible, and we are better as a full unit this year because of what we went through last season. Last year, we relied on some very good skilled position players, but this summer and early in the official practice season shows that we are a much better overall team. “The difference is the attitude of everyone. They have bought in, and being close last year has shown them that it is possible to be successful, especially with the hard work they have done. It’s not only lessons on the football field, but this team is learning life lessons that to be successful in anything you do, you must do the work.” Pereiro sees many strengths on this team, especially in the defensive secondary. “We have two starters returning in senior Carter Day and junior Jarin Edwards in the secondary, and we have a group of juniors who have stepped in and really are taking advantage of the opportunity in front of them. “Our offense line did a great job last year with seniors Tom Earls and Josh Casey returning, and they have done a terrific job of taking the other linemen

Larry W. Kane for Shaw Media

under their wing and teaching them the Wildcat way on the line.” When you think of football, all eyes focus on the “glamour” position of quarterback, and that position will have a new look this season. Last year’s junior starter Justin Divelbiss has stepped back from football to concentrate on baseball. Senior Nick Barner appears to have the inside track on the signal-caller duties this year. Barner is coming off a junior year that was plagued with injuries, but Pereiro likes what he sees in the senior. “Nick is the complete package and has a terrific arm and is a great passer,” Pereiro said. “He is really starting to come into his own. Last year, we relied on Justin’s legs a little too much, and Nick will give us that opportunity to throw in any situation. Our other offensive skilled people are working their tails off, and I’m excited to see how our offense progresses.” Barner will have three returning starters at the receiver position to throw to, as seniors Reese Lillie, Justin Lentz and Joe Kramarsky all have varsity experience. One area that the Wildcats are fo-

cused on is living in the moment, taking one game at a time. They are spending a lot of time on the mental aspect of the day-to-day grind of a football season. “Last year, we sort of got caught up into looking too far ahead, where can we get that fourth and fifth win,” Pereiro said. “We are really working on being in the present mentally. There is no need to look down the road, just what is there in front of you today.” The Wildcats opened their preseason Aug. 6 in Bourbonnais with the Chicago Bears. “It was a thrill to be able to open practice with the Bears at the facility in Bourbonnais,” Pereiro said. “I really believe that invitation came because of all the work we do with youth football in our area. It’s important to give back to the community as a program, and we are proud of that.” In their quest to get to the playoffs, the Wildcats open with two tough opponents on the road as they travel to Oswego and Plainfield North. Their home opener will be Week 4 as they host Plainfield South, and they will finish the season with three of their last four games at home.

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TOUCHDOWN 2018 The Herald-News/TheHerald-News.com • Thursday, August 23, 2018

Wildcats hope new attitude carries them

COVER STORY: BORN TO LEAD

YOUNGEST HAYES GETS HIS CHANCE

The Herald-News/TheHerald-News.com • Thursday, August 23, 2018

TOUCHDOWN 2018

Eric Ginnard – eginnard@shawmedia.com

Lincoln-Way Central’s Bryce Hayes poses for a photo Friday in New Lenox. The senior quarterback is the third Hayes brother to play for the Knights, along with their father, as well.

Knights’ quarterback earned job by working hard in offseason By STEVE SOUCIE ssoucie@shawmedia.com

EW LENOX – The phrase “I’ve been waiting for this my whole life” often is overused. But in the case of Lincoln-Way Central quarterback-to-be Bryce Hayes, there isn’t a more appropriate phrase to describe what is happening. “I was born into the Knight family,” Hayes said. “My grandma, [Bobbie], on my dad’s side, graduated from here. My grandfather, [Don], taught and coached baseball here. My father, [Steve], worked and coached football here. My mother, [Vicki], went here. The Hayes name has been around the school for a lot of years.” One would think that such a pedigree would put an enormous

pressure on the guy who is expected to lead a squad that has lofty aspirations for the season. “There’s always a little bit of pressure,” Hayes said. “I mean, I’ll go home and my father played quarterback here, my older brother, [Cale], played quarterback, and my other brother, [Nolan], played wideout. I go home, and they always are asking me what we are running and what we are doing. “But I see that as more of a blessing. They have gone through this; they know what I am going through, and they are always here if I have questions about how things roll. I talk to my two other brothers every day. They are a very important part of my life.” That deep-seated desire to succeed and hold up his part of the family lineage is one of the biggest

reasons his coach, Jeremy Cordell, is eager to see what his quarterback has in store for him this season. “He’s smart. It’s the intangibles of his leadership. He throws a great ball, controls the huddle,” Cordell said. “He is football smart. He’s just the whole package. He has the Michael Jordan effect, he gets his teammates to be better.” Hayes doesn’t see the pressure to lead as a burden; he considers it an absolute requirement in regard to what his job is. “I’ve always been told I’ve been born to lead. And having the two older brothers to kind of show me the ropes has helped me in that regard,” Hayes said. “I’ve always thought that if I want things done in a certain way, I’ve got to lead by example.” He also had to learn patience.

Hayes had a chance to win the job he coveted as a junior, but fell short to then-senior Sam Pipiras, who was just a whisker ahead of him on the development scale at the time. But instead of sulking, Hayes took a different path. “Quite frankly, he was ready last year. We just had a guy in front of him,” Cordell said. “We knew last year it was going to be his year this year. Not winning the job didn’t faze him; he got better every day. He took the majority of the scout team reps, and used that as a tool to improve. “He earned it. There’s no doubt about it. We’d never give anything to anyone in our program without doing that.” Hayes has been a bit restless most

See BORN TO LEAD, page 15

• BORN TO LEAD

Continued from page 14

TOUCHDOWN 2018 The Herald-News/TheHerald-News.com • Thursday, August 23, 2018

of the time since last season concluded with Lincoln-Way Central’s 14-10 loss to Benet in the Class 7A quarterfinal round. “When I kind of got that nod from coach in the offseason, I’ve just being going 110 percent,” Hayes said. “I have just been going in there knowing that these guys trust and believe in me, and I have to lead them to victory. I’m champing at the bit. I can’t wait. We’ve been working on things since January. I’m excited, the team’s excited, this town is excited.” Although Hayes is buoyant with the possibilities of what the season could be, he knows he’ll have moments he’s not going to want to tuck away in the Hayes’ family scrapbook. “I know that these guys are looking to me for the next play. My coach and my dad are always preaching to me about getting down about one play, because you’ve got another 60 to 80 plays that you have to be ready for,” Hayes said. “Coach Cordell preaches the three-second rule. One, two, flush, and it is out of your system and you go on to the next play.” Cordell has little doubt Hayes has the makeup needed to roll with the punches of the demanding position. “My expectation for him is for him to just be Bryce. Nothing changes with his approach. Nothing changes with how he is character-wise. He’s been prepping for it a long time. He feels the ownership behind that too; its like, ‘Let’s go,’ ” Cordell said. “He’s been waiting on this his whole life,” Cordell said. “We’ve grown close, and he’s shown me pictures of when he was small. This guy has been coming to games since he was a baby. He’s always been a part of it, and he’s proud to be a part of what we have built the last couple of years.” Lincoln-Way Central opens up the 2018 campaign on the road against a highly touted Richards team. Then in Week 2, the Hayes-led Knights will hit the home turf for a critical district rivalry game with another high-quality foe in Lincoln-Way West. “There’s going to be a lot of emotions,” Hayes admitted. “My father and I were talking the other day that I’m going to be the last one in the family to go through the organization until some other generations are born. It is going to be very emotional for me to step out there for the first time. But I know I have to stay poised and under control. There’s a fine line between confident and cocky. You can have some fun, but be confident, and your abilities will take over.”

Eric Ginnard – eginnard@shawmedia.com

Lincoln-Way Central’s Bryce Hayes poses for a photo Friday in New Lenox. The senior will take over the Knights’ offense for the first time this year.

The Herald-News/TheHerald-News.com • Thursday, August 23, 2018

TOUCHDOWN 2018

16 MORRIS

Redskins ready for last NIB 12 East season Inside the Redskins

By ROB OESTERLE roesterle@shawmedia.com

ORRIS – After finishing second in the state, what do you do for an encore? That is the question for the Morris football team, as the Redskins try to duplicate their success of last season, which saw them finish second in Class 4A to Rochester – which has won seven titles in the past eight years – after a last-second field goal. Morris lost a lot from that team, including starting offensive linemen Nolan Feeney, Brennan Goff, Nathan Korte and Noah McCorkhill, as well as running back/linebacker Kam Dransfeldt, receiver/defensive end Tyler Spiezio, receiver/defensive back Payton Voitik, linebacker Kaden Laurie – the defensive MVP of the Northern Illinois Big 12 East – defensive linemen Cody Baldridge, Alonzo Enriques and Avery Hofmann, and defensive backs Blake Breyman and Trevor Tanke. While that is a lot of talent to lose off one team, Morris coach Alan Thorson believes he has a solid core of returning players who can help fill the gaps. One main returnee is quarterback Mitchell Mayberry, who threw for 1,130 yards and 12 touchdowns despite missing the better part of three games with a collarbone injury. “I thought Mitch had a great year last year,” Thorson said. “Now he has that year under his belt. I feel like we got a glimpse of the real Mitch in the playoffs last year. He threw for both of our touchdowns in the Rochelle game and played real well in the title game. That experience will be huge for us. “He is going to have a lot of freedom this year to make some calls on the field. He sees things so much better this year. He has also put on some muscle in the offseason, and you can really tell that his ball has more zip on it. I am looking for him to be a big-time player for us.” While Dransfeldt ran for more than 1,800 yards last year, returning running backs Austin Hatcher and Chatten Dryfhout combined for nearly 1,000 yards. They will share a bulk of the carries, along with returning 280-pound fullback Tyler Petty and junior Brandon Phelps. “Chatten reminds me a lot of Kam,” Thorson said. “He has great vision and is a very hard runner. He is tough to bring down. Austin Hatcher is one of the fastest guys on our team and is a threat to score

Coach: Alan Thorson (62-30 in eight years at Morris) 2017 record: 11-3, 3-1 Northern Illinois Big 12 East Classification enrollment: 851 (Class 4A)

Schedule AUGUST 24: at Coal City, 7 p.m. 31: vs. Washington, 7:30 p.m. SEPTEMBER 7: vs. Crete-Monee, 7 p.m. 14: vs. Yorkville, 7:15 p.m. 21: at Ottawa, 7:15 p.m. 28: at DeKalb, 7:15 p.m. OCTOBER 5: vs. Sycamore, 7:15 p.m. 12: at Kaneland, 7:15 p.m. 19: vs. LaSalle-Peru, 7:15 p.m.

Dan Voitik for Shaw Media

Morris running back Brandon Phelps runs through the line at practice. any time he touches the ball. With Tyler, we probably have the biggest fullback in the state. He’s a great blocker, and he is very good running the ball. Brandon Phelps can switch between halfback and fullback and will be able to give those guys a rest if they need it.” Replacing the departed linemen will not be easy, but there is a solid starting point. Dylan Swartz (5-11, 290) returns for his third year on the varsity at one guard position, while Kyle Little (6-4, 242) will move from tight end to tackle. Robbie Bates (5-10, 220) will be the center, with R.J. Roderick (6-4, 236) at the other guard and Danny Garcia (6-1, 222) at the other tackle. Also rotating into the offensive line will be Braden Engleman (5-8, 205) and Juan Gutierrez (5-10, 226). “We won’t be as big as last year up front, but we are still pretty big,” Thorson said. “I think the guys this year move a little better, so we may be able to do things we couldn’t do last year.” Junior Zach Reddinger (6-2, 200) will start at tight end, with other receivers being seniors Jacob Overbeck and Alex Cameron. Logan Edwards, Nolan Swartz and Ryan Lain also will see time at receiver. “Overbeck saw a lot of time last year when Payton Voitik was hurt,” Thorson said. “Alex Cameron is one

of our fastest guys, and Reddinger will be a big target who can go up and get the ball. All of our receivers have had real good summers and run good routes. We feel good about them.” On defense, the key will be replacing Laurie and Dransfeldt at linebacker, as well as most of the defensive line. Little will return to one end position, where he led the team in sacks last season. Meanwhile, the defensive backfield sees Cameron return as a starter, as well as Overbeck, who saw a lot of time as well. “We will see the most new faces on the defense, that’s for sure,” Thorson said. “We lost four of our top five linemen, and all three starting linebackers, including one that was the defensive MVP of the conference. “But, having Kyle Little returning is a great place to start. He’s a big kid, and the biggest compliment I can give him is that his motor never stops running. He can disrupt another team’s offense by getting in the backfield, and he makes it tough to run to his side. And he never takes a play off. He plays hard all the time.” Other defensive line prospects are Roderick, Petty, Reddinger, Garcia, Engleman and Nathan Lobb. The linebacker position most likely will see a five-man rotation

in the three spots, with Dryfhout, Edwards, Devin Narwick, Phelps and Kade Kjellesvik all expected to contribute. Cameron and Dakota Revels look to be the starting cornerbacks, with Overbeck and Cole Laurie manning the safety spots. “We want to keep a limit on our guys going both ways,” Thorson said. “A lot of guys will play on both sides, but we have backups on both offense and defense that will be able to give them rest when they need it.” On special teams, the punter will be Hatcher, and he also will handle kickoff duties. The placekicker will be Austin Hastings, while the return men for both punts and kickoffs will be Cameron and Dryfhout. The Redskins will face a tougher nonconference schedule than in previous seasons, with a road game at Coal City to start the season, followed by home games with highly regarded Washington and CreteMonee to follow. “It’s the toughest nonconference schedule we’ve had in quite a while,” Thorson said. “Coal City is going to be a tough game, Washington will be ranked high in 5A, and Crete-Monee will probably be ranked high in 6A. Then, our conference is always tough. Yorkville always plays us tough, and so does Sycamore, and DeKalb and Kaneland always have good programs. “We are hoping that we can get through the schedule and get to the playoffs. Once the playoffs start, our schedule should have us well-prepared.”

PLAINFIELD EAST

2nd-year coach Terry thinks comfort with system could bring success By STEVE SOUCIE ssoucie@shawmedia.com

LAINFIELD – In Year 2 of Terrence Terry’s stint with Plainfield East, he’s hoping for a bit more consistency. In his inaugural season at the helm, everything started great in a 42-0 victory over Joliet Central. From there, things did not materialize as Terry would have hoped as the Bengals dropped the last eight games of their campaign. “We have to get more consistent,” Terry said. “We had stretches where we looked like one of the best teams around, and then to be honest, we had stretches where we looked like one of the worst teams around. Playing at a level that we know we can attain is important for us.” Part of reaching the level of consistency Terry is hoping for should come from having many more athletes that understand the system and the level

“We had stretches where we looked like one of the best teams around, and then to be honest, we had stretches where we looked like one of the worst teams around.” Terrance Terry, Plainfield East coach of preparation that it takes to get there. “The biggest thing for us is getting more comfortable in Year 2,” Terry said, “Having our kids know where to move and how to go. It’s the second year of people doing the same schedule we’re able to get more out of it. And we have to be able to use that as a big part of our evaluation taking a look at a lot of our young guys and a lot of them are stepping up.” Plainfield East features four returning starters on both sides of the football, but the biggest impact probably will be made by returning senior

quarterback Ben Mazurkiewicz. “I’ve always said the hardest thing to coach is a first-year quarterback, and the easiest thing to coach is a second-year quarterback,” Terry said. “We’re really excited about him, and we’re excited about all of the things he brings back.” Justin Pringle also should have a solid year out of the running back position. On the defensive side of the football, linebacker Jacob Floresca should be a huge contributor while Jamar Bailey Jr. also is another key cog.

Inside the Bengals Coach: Terrence Terry (1-8 in one year at Plainfield East) 2017 record: 1-8, 1-8 Southwest Prairie Conference Classification enrollment: 2,250 (Class 7A)

Schedule AUGUST 24: at Oswego East, 7 p.m. 31: at Joliet Central, 6:30 p.m. SEPTEMBER 7: vs. Plainfield Central, 7 p.m. 14: vs. Minooka, 7 p.m. 21: at Oswego, 7 p.m. 28: at Joliet West, 7 p.m. OCTOBER 5: vs. Plainfield South, 7 p.m. 12: at Romeoville, 7 p.m. 19: vs. Plainfield North, 7 p.m.

PLAINFIELD NORTH

Tigers still putting puzzle pieces in right places Plainfield North’s state track champion Moore hitting football field this fall By STEVE SOUCIE ssoucie@shawmedia.com

LAINFIELD – The Plainfield North football team is putting together a puzzle. Tigers coach Tim Kane feels as if he’s got lots of pieces for that puzzle, but putting them all in the correct places remains the challenge. “We have some really good pieces,” Kane said. “Now it is a matter of getting those people into the right places to succeed.” Offensively, it appears that the Tigers could be potent. Greg Budig is making the conversion from wide receiver to quarterback, and he’ll have a number of weapons to choose from to make the offense go. “He’s doing well. He’s just a kid that we need to get on the field,” Kane said. “He’s transitioned well. He’s a leader, and he’s done a great

“... We’re pretty blessed and pretty fortunate to have a couple of guys that can make big plays.” Tim Kane Plainfield North coach job running the offense.” Explosive speedster Marcellus Moore, the Class 3A state champion in the 100- and 200-meter dashes, gives the Tigers an incredible bigplay artist to use either out wide or in the backfield. But worrying about only Moore would be a huge mistake. The team also returns Garrett Cook, who led the team in receptions and receiving yardage a year ago. “We’ll move Marcellus around to

different positions around the field and put him in motion, to try to get him the ball in a variety of ways. He’s a game changer. I’ve seen a big difference in his game, as well in understanding what he needs to be effective,” Kane said. “But we’re pretty blessed and pretty fortunate to have a couple of guys that can make big plays,” Kane said. Anthony Elkareh and Kenny Schinke also return for the Tigers on the offensive line. Defensively, Plainfield North graduated a lot from a very good unit. But the cupboard isn’t bare. Alex Nowak and Nate Curtis return at the linebacker position, while Jeff Brecker will man a defensive line position. “We have to make sure we are putting in our due diligence in the secondary, because we lost nearly everyone with experience back there,” Kane said.

Inside the Tigers Coach: Tim Kane (66-50 in 12 years at Plainfield North) 2017 record: 8-3, 7-2 Southwest Prairie Conference Classification enrollment: 2,321 (Class 7A/8A)

Schedule AUGUST 24: vs. Joliet West, 7 p.m. 31: vs. Plainfield Central, 7 p.m. SEPTEMBER 7: at Oswego, 7 p.m. 14: vs. Romeoville, 7 p.m. 21: at Minooka, 7 p.m. 28: vs. Oswego East, 7 p.m. OCTOBER 5: at Joliet Central, 6:30 p.m. 12: vs. Plainfield South, 7 p.m. 19: at Plainfield East, 7 p.m.

TOUCHDOWN 2018 The Herald-News/TheHerald-News.com • Thursday, August 23, 2018

Bengals shooting for consistency

The Herald-News/TheHerald-News.com • Thursday, August 23, 2018

TOUCHDOWN 2018

Larry W. Kane for Shaw Media

Lincoln-Way Central’s Danny Reyna (center) follows his blockers out of the backfield Aug. 10 at Lincoln-Way Central High School.

LINCOLN-WAY CENTRAL

Knights look to reload with new talent By DRAKE SKLEBA Shaw Media correspondent

EW LENOX – “One rep at a time. One workout at a time. One practice at a time. One game at a time. We expect to be 1-0, for that week.” The above philosophy of Lincoln-Way Central coach Jeremy Cordell has been very successful as he enters his third season at the helm of the Knights. Standout players such as IHSFCA All-State fullback Mike Morgan, running back Matt Pollack, quarterback Sam Pipiras and linebacker Matt Granberry have all left the Lincoln-Way Central program via graduation. But let’s not cry too many tears for Cordell and his staff. They have built the Knights’ program to where they don’t believe in rebuilding. They reload. “We have some quality people coming back on both sides of the ball,” Cordell said. “We graduated some very talented players from last year’s team. Their backups have tremendous potential, and I believe now that they

Inside the Knights Coach: Jeremy Cordell (21-11 in three years at Lincoln-Way Central) 2017 record: 10-2, 4-1, Southwest Suburban Conference Classification enrollment: 2,137 (Class 7A) will be starting; they will play very well for us.” Four starters return on each side of the ball. Fleet-footed, senior running backs, Justin Ellis and Connor McWilliams, who combined for almost 1,000 yards of total offense look to cause major headaches for opposing defensive coordinators. Speedy sophomore Henry Woods looks to add even more quickness to the Knights’ rushing attack. “We are a different team this year,” Ellis said. “Last year, we were big. This year, we have great team speed. It will be a different game for us, but we will play with the same physicality. I’d really like to see both Connor [McWilliams] and I, rush for over 1,000-plus yards this season. With our outstanding offensive

Schedule AUGUST 24: at Oak Lawn Richards, 7 p.m. 31: vs. Lincoln-Way West, 7:30 p.m. SEPTEMBER 7: vs. Thornwood, 7 p.m. 14: at Lockport, 7:30 p.m. 21: at Lincoln-Way East, 7 p.m. 28: vs. Stagg, 7:30 p.m. OCTOBER 5: vs. Champaign Centennial, 7:30 p.m. 12: at Sandburg, 7:30 p.m. 19: vs. Thornton, 7:30 p.m. line, I believe we can achieve it.” Pipiras is gone, but the Knights are looking for big things from their new junior starting quarterback Bryce Hayes. The offensive line returns Drew Parrish (6-foot-3, 230 pounds) and Gavin Lachat (6-2, 235), while Ben Domalewski (6-3, 210) returns at tight end. Domalewski is a great blocker, and in the early going looks to be Hayes’ go-to receiver. A battle is underway at the wide re-

ceiver position as the young receivers work out with Hayes. The defensive line has returning experience as Mason Sergent and Johnny Nowak return. Junior Aaron Marcotte will move in at middle linebacker. Cornerback Gabe Meyers and strong safety Joel Viehl are returning anchors in the Knights’ defensive backfield. Look for the speedy junior cornerback Ian Troester to add secondary depth. “We lost a lot of talent from last year,” Viehl said. “What I have noticed about this team is that we play with the same intensity as last year’s successful team. I believe we will be very successful. Moving from cornerback to strong safety, I would really like to lead the team in tackles and get five or six interceptions. That is the plan.” “We feel that we always can win the conference title and make a run at the state championship,” Cordell said. “We lose tremendously talented players every year. But the program is at the stage now where the new kids continue to fill in and step up. I’m very confident that this group will continue that trend.”

LINCOLN-WAY EAST

Lincoln-Way East aiming for 1st back-to-back state titles in program history By STEVE SOUCIE ssoucie@shawmedia.com

RANKFORT – The Lincoln-Way East football program reached the pinnacle last year running a gauntlet without a loss on its way to the Class 8A state title. So what do the Griffins do for an encore? “That’s a tremendous question,” Lincoln-Way East coach Rob Zvonar said. “We’ve never won back-to-back titles, and we’re not thinking about that right now because we have to focus on what is right in front of us. But our slogan this year is ‘Do it again,’ and we’re going to embrace that because you don’t always have an opportunity to do that.” Although graduation hit the ranks of the Griffins’ roster rather significantly, there still is plenty to get excited about for the Griffins. Standout junior running back A.J.

“... Our slogan this year is ‘Do it again,’ and we’re going to embrace that ...” Rob Zvonar Lincoln-Way East coach Henning is drawing a litany of major college interest after racking up nearly 800 yards of total offense in a complementary role as a sophomore. He’s primed for a huge year running behind an offensive line with experienced linemen Anthony Sottosanto and Dane Eggert back to lead the way. Jack Baltz moves under center to guide the offense from the quarterback position, while Jackson Ritter and Matt Judd should both see increased roles in the offensive attack. On the defensive side look no further than linebacker Gus Christensen

for a building block. Christensen was the third-leading tackler on the team last season with 102 tackles. Further experience comes courtesy of defensive lineman Dylan Shelton. “The cupboard is not bare, there’s no doubt,” Zvonar said. “There’s high expectations. Any time there is pressure or stress in regard to having success you consider that an honor. You want to be there, as opposed to being on the other side. We welcome, in a very humble way, that target on our back because that means that the program is where we want to be.”

Inside the Griffins Coach: Rob Zvonar 2017 record: 14-0, 7-0 Southwest Suburban Conference Classification enrollment: 2,889 (Class 8A)

Schedule AUGUST 24: at Crete-Monee, 7 p.m. 31: vs. Naperville Central, 7 p.m. SEPTEMBER 7: vs. Andrew, 7 p.m. 14: at Sandburg, 7 p.m. 21: vs. Lincoln-Way Central, 7 p.m. 28: vs. Homewood-Flossmoor, 7 p.m. OCTOBER 5: at Lockport, 7:30 p.m. 12: at Thornwood, 7 p.m. 19: vs. Bolingbrook, 7 p.m.

BOLINGBROOK

Raiders’ dynamic running back duo ready to go Ivlow not going to complicate things, plans to lean on talented backfield By STEVE SOUCIE ssoucie@shawmedia.com

OLINGBROOK – Bolingbrook coach John Ivlow isn’t interested in overcomplicating things. So with a pair of already NCAA-level commits at running back, Ivlow is pretty sure he knows where the Raiders bread will be buttered this season. Anthony Williams Jr. has pledged his commitment to Michigan State, while Quentin Pringle recently signed with Eastern Kentucky. The dynamic duo gives Bolingbrook opponents plenty of problems to deal with. “We’ve got a couple of nice ones, especially in our backfield. That’s probably the highlight of this team,” Ivlow said. “I’d be dumb to not lean on them.” Quarterback Devon Suggs also brings another capable option to the offense as he assumes the reins of

“Youth is a loser’s excuse, but when you play a lot of youth and you win seven games, you should have some good years in front of you.” John Ivlow Bolingbrook coach the Raider offense. Suggs, at 6-foot-5, provides a pass-run option for the Raiders, as well. Bolingbrook bowed out of the playoffs after an opening-round loss to Warren last year, and the year previous, the Raiders failed to qualify for the playoffs. Both of those teams were anchored with younger players, but Ivlow absolutely refuses to make that the reason the Raiders didn’t get where they hoped. “Youth is a loser’s excuse,” Ivlow said. “But when you play a lot of youth and you win seven games, you should have some good years in front of you.”

Northwestern commit Cameron Mitchell should be one of the unit leaders on the defensive side of the football, but Ivlow certainly doesn’t feel the defense is lacking in other areas. “We have a nice crew on defense,” Ivlow said. “We have a nice, athletic group of kids that can all play.” Although the Raiders aren’t blessed with a multitude of depth, they do have one thing that Ivlow does appreciate. “We’re solid 1-deep everywhere,” Ivlow said. “We don’t really have depth, but we’re solid. We’re not hiding anyone out there. Everybody

Inside the Raiders Coach: John Ivlow 2017 record: 7-3, 5-2 Southwest Suburban Conference Classification enrollment: 3,550 (Class 8A)

Schedule AUGUST 24: vs. Downers Grove South, 7:30 p.m. 31: vs. St. Charles North, 7 p.m. SEPTEMBER 7: vs. Sandburg, 7:30 p.m. 14: vs. Homewood-Flossmoor, 7:30 p.m. 21: at Bradley-Bourbonnais, 7 p.m. 28: at Lockport, 7 p.m. OCTOBER 5: at Thornridge, 7 p.m. 12: vs. Thornton, 7 p.m. 19: at Lincoln-Way East, 7 p.m. we have out there can play. We’re ready to go.”

TOUCHDOWN 2018 The Herald-News/TheHerald-News.com • Thursday, August 23, 2018

Griffins welcome ‘target on their backs’

The Herald-News/TheHerald-News.com • Thursday, August 23, 2018

TOUCHDOWN 2018

20 LINCOLN-WAY WEST

Experienced Warriors ready to rumble Inside the Warriors Coach: Dave Ernst (52-19 in six years at Lincoln-Way West) 2017 record: 9-3, 6-1 Southwest Suburban Conference Classification enrollment: 1,905 (Class 7A)

Photos by Larry W. Kane for Shaw Media

Lincoln-Way West coach Dave Ernst watches practice Aug. 14 at Lincoln-Way West High School.

Lincoln-Way West quarterback Greyson Grimm passes during practice Aug. 14 at Lincoln-Way West High School in New Lenox.

Lincoln-Way West expecting deep postseason run this year

Schedule

By ALLAN SCARABELLO

AUGUST 24: vs. Case Racine (Wisc.), 7:30 p.m. 31: at Lincoln-Way Central, 7:30 p.m. SEPTEMBER 7: vs. Bradley-Bourbonnais, 7:30 p.m. 14: vs. Thornridge, 7:30 p.m. 21: at Homewood-Flossmoor, 7 p.m. 28: at Sandburg, 7:30 p.m. OCTOBER 5: vs. Thornton, 7:30 p.m. 12: at Stagg, 7:30 p.m. 19: at Andrew, 7 p.m.

Shaw Media correspondent

EW LENOX – Lincoln-Way West is poised for a big season. The Warriors are an experienced group that had plenty of success last season as a largely underclassmen group. Lincoln-Way West finished 9-3 last season and bowed out in the quarterfinal round of the Class 7A playoffs to the eventual state champions from Batavia. The experience starts on the offen-

sive line as Lincoln-Way West returns four of its five starting offensive linemen from last season. Right tackle Nate Mahoney and left tackle Martin Bender are both three-year starters, while center Brian White and right guard Matt Kablewzick started last season. Mahoney has an offer from West Point. “That’s always the part that takes the longest,” coach Dave Ernst said of offensive line development. “We have four returning starters. We feel really

good about our guys up front, and anytime you have four O-linemen coming back, that buys you a lot of time.” Ernst may not even need the time a stable offensive line buys you, as the Warriors offense is loaded with weapons starting in the backfield. Every rushing yard attained at the varsity level in 2017 is back, starting with running back Donte Barber, who was injured in the opening game last season.

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21 TOUCHDOWN 2018 The Herald-News/TheHerald-News.com • Thursday, August 23, 2018

‘‘

We want to peak at playoff time and make a run in the playoffs.” Dave Ernst, Lincoln-Way West coach

• WARRIORS

Continued from page 20 His replacement, Caleb Marconi, was excellent in his own right. He rushed for 1,400 yards in Barber’s absence. “Barber has been a four-year varsity kid and was hurt on the first play of the season,” Ernst said. “People don’t know him because he didn’t play much, but he’s a kid who is extremely talented.” All the playmakers should help first-year starting quarterback Greyson Grimm, who started games at wide receiver and running back last season. Grimm, a senior, will rely on new wide receivers Billy Dozier and Nick Gula to help in the passing game. The Warriors should be outstanding on the defensive side of the ball, as well.

Ernst’s defense will be led by Marconi at inside linebacker, whose biggest talents are on the defensive side of the ball. Marconi is a Big Ten recruit and will be a two-way player, a feat rarely accomplished at a school the size of Lincoln-Way West. Marconi, along with returning starters defensive lineman Kaden Lingle, linebacker Griffin Kettellaar and defensive back Andrew Sherry figure to anchor the defense. Newcomers to the defensive line include Matt Nevin and Marco Corsetti, while Quan Brown brings more depth to the defensive backfield. Ernst and his staff are excited to get the season started. “It’s a really highly motivated, competitive group,” Ernst said. “We feel like we’re going to be a good team, but they are really focused on getting better every day and each week. We want to peak at playoff time and make a run in the playoffs.”

Photos by Larry W. Kane for Shaw Media

TOP: Lincoln-Way West’s Billy Dozier (right) looks a pass into his hands during practice Aug. 14 at Lincoln-Way West High School in New Lenox. ABOVE: Lincoln-Way West’s Dylan Gajdorus catches a punt during practice Aug. 14.

The Herald-News/TheHerald-News.com • Thursday, August 23, 2018

TOUCHDOWN 2018

Larry W. Kane for Shaw Media

Romeoville quarterbacks Zach Gibson (left) and Donovan Dehoyas work on passing drills Aug. 7 at Romeoville High School.

ROMEOVILLE

Romeoville rolling out new-look offense Inside the Spartans Coach: Oliver Gibson (6-21 in three years at Romeoville) 2017 record: 2-7, 2-7 Southwest Prairie Conference Classification enrollment: 1,920 (Class 7A)

Schedule AUGUST 24: vs. Joliet Central, 7 p.m. 31: vs. Plainfield South, 7 p.m. SEPTEMBER 7: at Oswego East, 7 p.m. 14: at Plainfield North, 7 p.m. 21: vs. Joliet West, 7 p.m. 28: vs. Oswego, 7 p.m. OCTOBER 5: at Minooka, 7 p.m. 12: vs. Plainfield East, 7 p.m. 19: at Plainfield Central, 7 p.m.

Spartans looking for new playmakers to step up By KEVIN NEWBERRY Shaw Media correspondent

OMEOVILLE – It’s been a while since Romeoville has put together a winning record – winning only eight games over the course of the past four seasons – and the Spartans find themselves on uncertain footing to start the 2018 season, as well. Only six starters are returning from last season, but with that comes an influx of new faces, who will provide plenty of things to watch for as the season progresses. Along with a roster full of newcomers, the Spartans also will sport a new-look offense this year as they spread things out and try to use their speed, moving away from the ground-and-pound scheme they’ve

deployed in the past. “Romeoville has historically run an option offense, so we got back to that for a while when I came back,” Spartans coach Oliver Gibson said. “This year, we just don’t have the experienced personnel at running back we’ve had in past seasons like Jordan Nettles, who Oliver Gibson graduated a couple of years ago and plays at Northern Illinois [University]. So we’re looking to open things up a bit. “It should be exciting and a fun style of football to play. I’m looking forward to seeing how things come along for us,” he said. “We’re

a young team with just five guys returning for us on defense and only one on the offensive side of the ball, but we have some really athletic new guys coming in, and I think we are going to be able to have a lot of fun out there if we can execute properly.” On the defensive side, Romeoville will have a nice base of returning starters to lead the way. Senior linebackers Jabril Williams, Kelvin Asamoah and Joseph Vasquez will provide a strong anchor in the middle of the defense, and Anthony Dehoyos should help provide a bit of pressure up front at defensive end. If things go well and his guys are able to quickly pick up on the new playbook, Gibson suspects the Spartans may be able to surprise some people in 2018.

Experienced O-line leads way for Porters ABOVE: Lockport quarterback Marcos Voulgaris drops back to pass Aug. 13 at Lockport High School. LEFT: Lockport coach Dan Starkey keeps an eye on practice Aug. 13. Lockport averaged only 14 points on offense last season, but the Porters hope to lean heavily on an experienced offensive line.

By STEVE SOUCIE ssoucie@shawmedia.com

OCKPORT – Things did not go according to plan for the Lockport football team last season. After collecting a victory in the season-opening matchup with a win over Downers Grove North, the Porters endured a seven-game losing streak in the middle of the season before capping the year on a somewhat positive note with a win over Bradley-Bourbonnais. But the 2-7 record did not sit well with coach Dan Starkey, and he has made it clear to his program that the down year should only be an aberration and not the beginning of a trend. “Off the field the players have to continue to understand what the expectations are. We expect to win, and every year is a different season.” Starkey said. “ And we have to do a better job as coaches at putting players in situations to succeed, so that they are ready for that competitive environment when they are in it.” Lockport averaged only 14 points on offense last season, but the Porters hope to lean heavily on an experienced offensive line to be more productive in that area. Raymond Pustelnik, Chris Walus and Payton Collins all return and set the foundation for the offense. “The returning offensive line gives us some stability there. We think we will be able to run the football.” Starkey

Photos by Larry W. Kane for Shaw Media

said. “We need to be able to consistently run the football, because if we can run, we will be able to do multiple things.” But all of the offensive specialists will be newcomers or players with extremely limited experience. The quarterback position is an open derby between Marcos Voulgaris and Brian Mane, while the backfield should be some combination of Leslie Nartey and Malik Daghash. That duo combined for only 15 carries last season. Once the quarterback situation is resolved, the primary target at receiver likely will be tight end Joe Edwards, and Will Cichowski also will factor in heavily as he pulls double-duty at linebacker. Lockport does have a special teams

weapon in kicker Ryan Barth. “He’s a weapon for us just with field position, and we’ll feel pretty confident with Ryan inside the 30 for field goals,” Starkey said. The Porters have a lot of rebuilding to do on defense, but nose guard Ronald Tucker will anchor the Lockport defensive line. Jake Janeczko provides another potential stronghold up front for the Porters. “We’re definitely going to be young on both sides of the football, especially on defense,” Starkey said. “It is going to be a matter of how quickly that those young guys can get acclimated to varsity football.” Lockport opens the season with the closing game of the Kickoff Classic at

Inside the Porters Coach: Dan Starkey (15-22 in four years at Lockport) 2017 record: 2-7, 1-5 Southwest Suburban Conference Classification enrollment: 3,706 (Class 8A)

Schedule AUGUST 25: vs. Providence Catholic, 6 p.m., at NIU 31: at Wheaton Warrenville-South, 7:30 p.m. SEPTEMBER 8: at Thornton, 12:30 p.m. 14: vs. Lincoln-Way Central, 7:30 p.m. 21: at Andrew, 7 p.m. 28: vs. Bolingbrook, 7 p.m. OCTOBER 5: vs. Lincoln-Way East, 7:30 p.m. 13: at Peoria Notre Dame, 6 p.m. 19: at Bradley-Bourbonnais, 7:30 p.m. Northern Illinois University against a foe they are quite familiar with but never have played: Providence Catholic. “It’s been a motivator for players on both teams,” Starkey said. “I know our kids are excited about it; our kids want to go out and have a great showing. But we know it is going to be a real challenge.”

TOUCHDOWN 2018 The Herald-News/TheHerald-News.com • Thursday, August 23, 2018

LOCKPORT

Young Indians team to take field in opener Inside the Indians Coach: John Belskis (first year at Minooka) 2017 record: 9-3, 7-2 Southwest Prairie Conference Classification enrollment: 2,653 (Class 8A)

Minooka quarterback Seth Lehr passes during practice Aug. 14 at Minooka High School.

Schedule AUGUST 24: vs. Plainfield South, 7 p.m. 31: vs. Oswego, 7 p.m. SEPTEMBER 7: at Joliet Central, 6:30 p.m. 14: at Plainfield East, 7 p.m. 21: vs. Plainfield North, 7 p.m. 28: at Plainfield Central, 7 p.m. OCTOBER 5: vs. Romeoville, 7 p.m. 12: at Joliet West, 7 p.m. 19: vs. Oswego East, 7 p.m.

Photos by Larry W. Kane for Shaw Media

Minooka runs full-team drills during practice Aug. 14 at Minooka High School.

Minooka gets new coach as McCombs steps down By DRAKE SKLEBA Shaw Media correspondent

INOOKA – The coaching staff of the Minooka Indians will have a challenge on its hands this season. The team reached the third round of the IHSA playoffs in somewhat surprising fashion last season, but if the Indians are going to keep the good times rolling, they will do so with an almost entirely new cast of characters.

Minooka also will have a change at head coach as John Belskis, formerly at Downers Grove South, takes the title from former coach Terry McCombs, who remains on staff as an assistant. Graduation losses were heavy and Belskis will begin his head coaching tenure at Minooka with only three returning starters from the 2017 squad. “We are very young and will be starting numerous underclassmen this season,” Belskis said. “We have a very

talented group of juniors, and I truly believe if we can stay healthy, this group will compete for a state championship. We may get there as early as this year. If not in 2018, in 2019, we will be in position to win that state championship.” After accounting for nearly 600 yards of total offense as a sophomore, junior Connor Etzkorn burst onto the scene last season to lead Minooka with

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TOUCHDOWN 2018

24 MINOOKA

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25 TOUCHDOWN 2018 The Herald-News/TheHerald-News.com • Thursday, August 23, 2018 Photos by Larry W. Kane for Shaw Media

ABOVE: Minooka’s new coach John Belskis talks to his players after practice Aug. 14 at Minooka High School. BELOW: Minooka’s Steve Gonzalez practices punt returns Aug. 14.

• INDIANS Continued from page 24 10 touchdowns. “I really think we are going to have a good season again,” Etzkorn said. “I feel the only way we can be beat is if we beat ourselves with mistakes. I hope we can have the best offensive backfield set in the conference. It would be nice also to rush for 1,000 yards.” Junior wide receiver Steve Gonzales Jr. also returns. He looks to be the main target for Indians junior quarterback Seth Lehr. “We’re looking really good on both sides of the ball. Our special teams also look good,” Gonzales said. “I’m confident we can be as successful as we were last season. I have no personal goals ... just a team goal: that we all can come together and have a great season.” Anchoring the Indians’ young offensive line is offensive tackle, Kyle Wil-

liamson (6-foot-4 220 pounds). Williamson will be joined by center Ryan Doody and guard Jake Shiple. The other

offensive line spots and the tight end and wide receiver positions are up for grabs. “We have a very athlet-

ic and very young team,” Williamson said. “We have to continue to work hard and drill and try to get better

each day. I feel we have been accomplishing that this preseason. I just want to do the little things on the offense line well to help us succeed.” Junior Alfred Vaughn looks to lead the Indians’ defensive line at tackle. The other line spots also are up for grabs. “We truly have no idea right now what Minooka Indians team we will put on the field here for our opener against Plainfield South,” Belskis said. Junior linebacker Tommy Burrs (6-0, 215) looks to lead the young linebacker corps. The Indians also are looking for big things from junior linebacker Fred Doligale and senior backer Connor Colbert, as well. Senior Nick Daniel looks to lead the Indians’ defensive backfield. “Yes, we are very, very young,” Belskis added. “That’s no excuse. They don’t put the year in school on our uniforms, just our numbers.”

The Herald-News/TheHerald-News.com • Thursday, August 23, 2018

TOUCHDOWN 2018

26 COAL CITY

Coalers to lean on postseason experience By ROB OESTERLE roesterle@shawmedia.com

OAL CITY – In coach Dan Hutchings’ first season at the helm last year, the Coalers went 6-3 in the regular season and made the Class 4A playoffs. The Coalers lost to Taylorville in the first round, a result they hope to improve upon this season. It should help that Hutchings and his son, Payton, the quarterback, will have a year of experience to learn from. “Payton having a year of experience will definitely be a plus,” Dan Hutchings said. “He is still learning, but it’s more like tweaking the offense with him now. We can give him a few more things to do this year, since he is much more comfortable with the basics.”

Inside the Coalers Coach: Dan Hutchings 2017 record: 6-4, 4-1 Interstate Eight Large Classification enrollment: 662 (Class 4A) After spending a summer splitting his time between baseball, basketball and football, it will be a welcome change for Payton Hutchings, a junior, to be focused on only one sport. “He definitely had a busy summer,” Dan Hutchings said. “Now we can put all those other things away and just concentrate on football.” Payton Hutchings, a 6-foot, 175-pound junior whose strong left arm already has gotten him to commit to University of Illinois for baseball, will have plenty

WILMINGTON

Wildcats employ winning formula By STEVE SOUCIE ssoucie@shawmedia.com

ILMINGTON – Coach Jeff Reents has developed a great formula for his program. That formula has netted the Wildcats 22 consecutive playoff appearances and a Class 3A state title in 2014. A integral part of the formula involves a consistent procession of underclassmen stepping into the roles left by graduated seniors. “Our seniors have always come to the front,” Reents said. “Maybe they didn’t get the playing time that they wanted as juniors, but now we’ll see what happens when they are asked to step up. ... It has been a good formula for us, particularly since we won state.” The Wildcats are expecting big things from returning running back/ defensive back Conner Dempsey. Dempsey was an All-State pick by the IHSFCA last season and deservedly so. He accounted for nearly 1,900 yards of total offense as a runner, passer and receiver last season with 25 touchdowns. “Conner is a great change-up for us,” Reents said. “We always feel comfortable when we can get the ball in his hands.” Dempsey often moved around in the Wilmington backfield, but Reents

Inside the Wildcats Coach: Jeff Reents 2017 record: 10-2, 5-0 Interstate Eight Small Classification enrollment: 465 (Class 3A)

Schedule AUGUST 24: at Manteno, 7 p.m. 31: vs. Coal City, 7 p.m. SEPTEMBER 7: vs. Lisle, 7 p.m., at Benedictine 14: at Sandwich, 7 p.m. 21: vs. Peotone, 7 p.m. 28: vs. Herscher, 6 p.m. OCTOBER 5: at Reed-Custer, 7 p.m. 12: vs. Streator, 7 p.m. 19: at Plano, 7 p.m. is hopeful returning quarterback Keaton Hopwood can settle in at the position regularly. Defensively, although the team returns only three starters on that side of the ball, injuries ravaged the core of the unit last season. Several of those injured players return now with minimal varsity experience but should provide the team with some needed depth.

of help on the offensive side. Connor Skubic (6-0, 195), the Coalers’ leading rusher from a year ago, returns as does fellow running back Max Arias (5-10, 175). Also returning on the offensive side of the ball are tight end Austin Pullara (6-2, 185), split end Gio Ferrara (6-1, 180) and linemen Wills Payton (60, 225), Aaron McMurtrey (6-0, 250) and Michael Leasure (6-2, 260). “We think our offensive line will be pretty good,” Dan Hutchings said. “We have pretty decent size. We aren’t Morris big, but we will stack up pretty well against most teams we play.” On defense, Hutchings feels that linebackers Pullara, Skubic and Jack Bunton will be a strength for the team. “Pullara was a defensive end for us last year, but we will move him to

Schedule AUGUST 24: vs. Morris, 7 p.m. 31: at Wilmington, 7 p.m. SEPTEMBER 7: vs. Herscher, 7 p.m. 14: at Streator, 7 p.m. 21: vs. Plano, 7 p.m. 28: at Sandwich, 7 p.m. OCTOBER 5: vs. Manteno, 7 p.m. 12: at Reed-Custer, 7 p.m. 19: vs. Lisle, 7 p.m. middle linebacker this year,” Dan Hutchings said. “With him, Skubic and Bunton, we feel like we have a nice trio there.”

LEMONT

Indians have questions to answer before season By STEVE SOUCIE ssoucie@shawmedia.com

EMONT – The Lemont football team has recorded double-digit victory totals in 10 of the past 12 seasons, including last year’s 10-2 season that ended with a loss in the Class 5A quarterfinals to eventual state champion Chicago Phillips. A consistent run of success of that level isn’t easy to maintain. But if veteran coach Bret Kooi has learned anything during his coaching career, it’s that he needs to be adaptable to the situation. “We had what I thought was a phenomenal stretch of sessions in the weight room,” Kooi said. “But we had to juggle a lot with some multiple sport athletes, and we spent most of the summer trying to figure things out.” A number of questions still need to be answered on the offensive side of the ball. The quarterback position has a healthy duel being contested by Matt Milan and Luke Bailey. Both have different strengths, and Kooi admits the competition might not settle itself before the season. “That’s something that might be settling itself for the entire year,” Kooi said. “It’s a matter of finding ways to maximize what each of them can do.” Whoever is calling the signals will have a group of more-than-competent

Inside the Indians Coach: Bret Kooi 2017 record: 10-2, 6-0 South Suburban Blue Classification enrollment: 1,404 (Class 6A)

Schedule AUGUST 24: vs. Batavia, 7 p.m. 31: at Rich Central, 7 p.m. SEPTEMBER 7: vs. T.F. North, 7 p.m. 14: at Tinley Park, 7 p.m. 21: at Hillcrest, 7 p.m. 28: vs. Bremen, 7 p.m. OCTOBER 5: at Richards, 7 p.m. 12: vs. T.F. South, 7 p.m. 19: at Oak Forest, 7 p.m. receivers to throw to. Leading the way for that group will be Anthony Sambucci, but he’s far from alone there. “We have a really good group at that position,” Kooi said. On the defensive side of the ball, the Indians have a solid base of returners to work from. Middle linebacker Cade Campos recorded 112 tackles, including 17 tackles for loss last season, and should continue the tradition of very solid defensive units for Lemont.

PEOTONE

REED-CUSTER

By STEVE SOUCIE

ssoucie@shawmedia.com For Peotone coach Apostolos Tsiamas, it always has been about creating a culture that fostered success. Last season very well might have been a huge breakthrough in that process. The Blue Devils finished 9-2, matching the school record for wins in a season and furthest advancement in the state playoffs with a second-round loss to the eventual state champions from IC Catholic. “We lost a big senior class of players to graduation,” Tsiamas said. “But I think we’ve got the right mix going on right now. I feel a lot better about this situation than I did two years ago when we had a similar type situation. After what happened last year, these kids want to keep that going. Football is fun, but football is really fun when you are winning football games like we did last year.” The Blue Devils lost a pair of 1,000yard rushers to graduation, but Tsiamas is confident that Ryan Brewer is

Inside the Blue Devils

Coach: Apostolos Tsiamas 2017 record: 9-2, 4-1 Interstate Eight Small Classification enrollment: 493 (Class 3A)

Schedule AUGUST 24: vs. Peoria Manual, 7 p.m. 31: at Tinley Park, 7 p.m. SEPTEMBER 7: vs. Reed-Custer, 7 p.m. 14: vs. Lisle, 7 p.m., at Benedictine 21: at Wilmington, 7 p.m. 28: vs. Plano, 7 p.m. OCTOBER 5: at Herscher, 7 p.m. 12: vs. Manteno, 7 p.m. 19: at Streator, 7 p.m. prepared to shoulder more of the load for the ground-heavy Peotone offensive attack. Tsiamas also is expecting big things from Branden Bias and Ashton Joslin.

DWIGHT

By STEVE SOUCIE ssoucie@shawmedia.com Reed-Custer hasn’t been to the playoffs since 2009. Since that playoff appearance, the Comets have won only 12 games in eight seasons. Those hard truths are not revelations to new coach Gavin Johnston, who was an all-state quarterback at Reed-Custer in 2006. “We worked hard this summer in trying to change the culture a bit,” Johnston said. “We are doing some different things, and the program numbers are up. So hopefully word is getting around.” Johnston’s plan is to open the offense up in more of a spread attack. Johnston thrived in his playing days as a dual threat and believes Josh Loomis, who has two years of quarterback under his belt, will thrive in the system. “We’re really depending on him,” Johnston said of Loomis. “He’s really taken some strides as a player.”

Inside the Comets Coach: Gavin Johnston 2017 record: 2-7, 2-3 Interstate Eight Small Classification enrollment: 477 (Class 3A)

Schedule AUGUST 24: at Fieldcrest, 7 p.m. 31: vs. Chicago Brooks, 7 p.m. SEPTEMBER 7: at Peotone, 7 p.m. 14: vs. Herscher, 7 p.m. 21: vs. Manteno, 7 p.m. 28: vs. Lisle, 7 p.m., at Benedictine OCTOBER 5: vs. Wilmington, 7 p.m. 11: vs. Coal City, 7 p.m. 19: at Sandwich, 7 p.m. Nick Mitchell and Kaleb Knust should share responsibilities in the ground game, while the offensive line is anchored by junior Caleb LaGrange.

SENECA

4 returning linemen give Seneca ready to rebound from Trojans stability up front rough season in new conference By STEVE SOUCIE ssoucie@shawmedia.com With a wealth of experienced players at its disposal, Dwight feels as if it can be a factor in the Sangamon Valley Conference race this season. The Trojans return eight starters on the offensive side of the ball and seven more on the defensive side, which leads first-year coach Luke Standiford to believe that his Trojans can make a substantial leap forward. The Trojans have high hopes they can improve on offense and expect running back Logan Graham and tight end Chris Bement to lead that effort. Graham ran for 700-plus yards last season, while Bement (6-foot-5, 230 pounds) is drawing Division I and FBS-level collegiate interest. Both of those players should benefit from an offensive line that returns four of its five starters from last year.

Inside the Trojans Coach: Luke Standiford 2017 record: 3-6, 1-4 Sangamon Valley Conference Classification enrollment: 433 (Class 3A)

Schedule AUGUST 24: vs. Ottawa Marquette, 7 p.m. 31: vs. Westville, 7 p.m. SEPTEMBER 7: at Seneca, 7 p.m. 14: vs. Clifton Central, 7 p.m. 21: vs. Watseka, 7 p.m. 28: at Momence, 7 p.m. OCTOBER 5: vs. Iroquois West, 7 p.m. 12: vs. Hoopeston, 7 p.m. 19: at Paxton, 7 p.m.

By CHARLIE ELLERBROCK cellerbrock@shawmedia.com The Fighting Irish last fall rebounded from the late-preseason loss of its starting quarterback to get off to a strong 3-1 start before the power of the Interstate Eight Small Division caught up to them and dealt them five straight defeats. But now that disappointment is far in the past and Seneca has a refreshed, more confident attitude as it joins a new league, the Sangamon Valley Conference, for its seventh year under coach Ted O’Boyle. The Irish have several key veterans back in versatile senior back Logan Bruss and this year’s signal caller, senior Ken Sangston. Bruss, who collected 667 rushing yards in a QB/RB role, will be “the focal point” of the offense, O’Boyle said.

Inside the Fighting Irish Coach: Ted O’Boyle 2017 record: 3-6, 1-4 Interstate Eight Small Classification enrollment: 456 (Class 3A)

Schedule AUGUST 24: vs. Westmont, 7 p.m. 31: at Ottawa Marquette, 7 p.m. SEPTEMBER 7: vs. Dwight 14: vs. Paxton, 1 p.m. 21: at Clifton Central, 7 p.m. 28: at Iroquois West, 7 p.m. OCTOBER 5: vs. Watseka, 7 p.m. 12: vs. Momence, 7 p.m. 19: at Bismarck-Henning, 7 p.m.

TOUCHDOWN 2018 The Herald-News/TheHerald-News.com • Thursday, August 23, 2018

Peotone hoping to Comets moving build from success to spread offense

The Herald-News/TheHerald-News.com • Thursday, August 23, 2018

TOUCHDOWN 2018

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10 YEAR WARRANTY $

TWIN

FULL

QUEEN

KING

599 699 839 1069 $

FREE - PILLOWS, DELIVERY, FRAME, OLD BED DISPOSAL

Starts Aug. 16th

500

on select adjustable mattress sets

HANDCRAFTED COMFORT & Superior Savings SAVE UP TO on ﬂat or adjustable mattress sets

600*

AUGUST 21 - SEPTEMBER 10

44 Years in Shorewood Plaza Shorewood, IL SM-CL1565514