|
Friday, September 3, 2021 |
5
Sheldon eager to restore position in SWC By Kris Henry Mail Tribune
Being on the wrong side of a Southwest Conference drubbing was an unfamiliar position for Sheldon this past spring, and one the Irish don’t plan on repeating anytime soon. When North Medford came to Eugene in Week 6 and walked away with a physically imposing 48-16 victory to wrap up the 2020-21 season, it definitely got Sheldon’s attention. Finishing a close third behind the favored Black Tornado and runner-up South Medford in this year’s preseason SWC coaches poll only stokes the fire for a Sheldon program that has placed first in nine of the 14 contested conference campaigns. “We’re kind of on the outside looking in right now and we’ve got to get a chip on our shoulder and reassert our position in the league,” said fifth-year Irish coach Josh Line. “We’ve been one of the top teams in the league but we’ve got a tough
for a breakout campaign. Leading that charge is junior quarterback Brock Thomas, a 6-foot, 175-pounder with vast potential, according to Line. Thomas passed for nearly 800 yards and ran for another 300 in spearheading Sheldon’s attack in the spring, thrust into the fire with an inexperienced crew around him. The son of former Oregon player Aaron Thomas, the dual-threat QB boasts good speed and a strong arm, which fit perfectly into Sheldon’s offensive scheme. Line said Thomas also has the intangibles you want in any player. “Brock is a special talent and he just gets better and better every day,” said the coach. “He has a great attitude and a great work ethic. He really wants to be the best quarterback that he can be and he invests the time. CHRIS PIETSCH / THE EUGENE REGISTER-GUARD He’s a lot better than he was Sheldon’s Brock Thomas, left, works out under the watchful eye of coach Josh Line as practice begins last month. last year, and I thought he was road ahead of us to get back to be easy because the league has company, Sheldon has some pretty good last year.” that spot. Certainly that’s what got great coaches.” pretty special players who, after SEE SWC, 12 our goal is, but it’s not going to Fortunately for Line and a spring seasoning, are primed
BLACK BIRD
Football is here! Blackbird has everything you need this fall for Football season! We carry a large line of Weber Grills and accessories, perfect for entertaining at home or tailgating. Pick up some new Yeti drinkware in their new Fall colors while you’re at it!
1810 W. Main St. Medford • 541-779-5431 • Limited to Stock Open Mon-Sat 9am - 8pm, Sunday 9:30am - 6:30pm theblackbird.com - Open “8 Days A Week!” MF-00141100
