2 • The Daily Courier • 2013 Football
Contents
Schedules Chase
Pg. 15 East
Pg. 14 Trojans
S
ierra Blackwell is breaking new ground at Chase High School, even though she may not want to. — Page 4
Cavs
E
ast Rutherford head football coach Clint Bland has talent galore at the wide receiver position. — Page 6
'Toppers Gryphons
T
hey may be called "the big uglies" but the offensive line is crucial to success for R-S Central. — Page 8
A
new season but the same backfield combination for Thomas Jefferson ... well, sort of.. — Page 10
139 E. Main Street • Downtown Forest City • 828-245-4591
R-S Central
Pg. 14 TJCA
Pg. 15
2013 Football • The Daily Courier • 3
More inside 12 21 22
2013 Football Published by The Daily Courier.
2013 Preseason All-County
Editor Matthew Clark
Photographer Garrett Byers
With the 2013 season on tap. The Daily Courier sports team predicts those that will be All-County performers. The list consists 11 position players and a special teams performer.
Sports Editor Travis Durkee
Advertsing Director Lori Spurling
Sports Contributor Jacob Conley
Advertising Chrissy Driver Jill Hasty Patti Davis
Tar Heels aim for run at ACC crown North Carolina is finally free of NCAA sanctions that kept the Tar Heels out of last year's Atlantic Coast Conference championship game.
Wolfpack ready for 1st run under new coach North Carolina State is hoping new coach Dave Doeren can provide a jolt to a program struggling to sustain momentum in the Atlantic Coast Conference.
Your local sports connection
23
Duke not satified with 1st bowl berth since '94 It's progress from a program that went winless four times in the 11-year span and won a total of two games in the three seasons before David Cutcliffe was hired.
Chase Trojans
4 • The Daily Courier • 2013 Football
Founded: 1960 • Enrollment: 826 • Classification: SMAC AA
Gridiron Girl: Blackwell becomes first female player in Chase history them aren’t,” she said. “But I can’t worry about what other ierra Blackwell is people think about me. I just breaking new ground need to worry about myself at Chase High School, and just concentrate on getting even though she may not want better.” to. “The team is always a little “I’m not trying to make any skeptical of newcomers,” added kind of statement,” said the Bailey. “But once they see that freshman tackle. “I just want to you are a hard worker and not play football.” lazy, they acShe has the cept you, and “It’s my first year of everybody can chance to do playing football ever, see that Sierra both. When the JV Troso I’ve got a lot to works hard. jans take the learn. My teammates We have had field Sept. 5, and coaches are help- some young Blackwell will ladies come to ing me though, and I become the tryouts before feel like I’m getting first female to and they just hit the gridiron better.” did not work during the —Sierra Blackwell hard. Sierra is regular season different.” in Chase hisBlackwell, tory. who has always been a football “I think it’s a great thing,” fan, says it was a hard decision said Chase head coach Daniel to make the transition to the Bailey. “I’ve always said I don’t field. care if you are red, yellow, “I wanted to come out black, white, male or female, if before, but I was scared,” she you want to play football for said. “My gym coach really Chase High School, you can encouraged me to do it and play football for Chase High here I am.” School. It’s obvious from her When Blackwell arrived for work ethic that Sierra wants to the first day of tryouts, Bailey be a Trojan.” was a little surprised. Blackwell admits that some “I told her that softball was in of her teammates are not as acthe weight room and she gave cepting as her coach. “Some of them are, some of Please see Page 17 By JACOB CONLEY Special toThe Daily Courier
Head Coach: Daniel Bailey
S
Garrett Byers/The Daily Courier
Chase freshman offensive lineman Sierra Blackwell (73) will become the first female Trojan to play high school football when the JV Trojans take the field Sept. 5 at Bandys.
2013 Football • The Daily Courier • 5
Player Spotlight
Player to watch Jordan O’Rourke SR, HT: 6’1, WT: 180
Josh Wright SR, HT: 5'8", WT: 210 Wright is coming of a huge season in 2012, rushing for 1,030 yards and 10 touchdowns to spearhead the Trojans’ triple option attack. Wright is poised to have another big year behind a senior-laden offensive line and two-year starter Tyrell Boykins under center. “Josh is the cog that makes our offense go,” said head coach Daniel Bailey. “He was our workhorse last year and this year shouldn’t be any different.” Wright is at his best when running between the tackles and that should open things up for the Trojan’s speed to get the edge. “Josh likes to go up in and get the tough yards. He runs well after contact and doesn’t go down easily," Bailey said. According to Wright, pad level is the key to his success. “You have to stay low and not be afraid of contact. I love to put on the pads and hit. It’s the best feeling in the world," Wright said. Wright also credits the offensive line for his success. "The line has been together for four years now and that is a big advantage for me,” he said. "They deserve a lot of the credit. I’m also getting comfortable on my reads from Tyrell. In the triple option, you have to be on the same page with the quarterback.”
According to his coach, O’Rourke is one of the best allaround athletes on the team. Skilled at multiple positions, O’Rourke will line up in the backfield and split out wide at receiver in 2013. He will also handle the punting chores for the Trojans. “You can put Jordan anywhere on the football field and he is going to succeed,” said head coach Daniel Bailey. "Last year, he was a wingback, a wide receiver and he finished up the year as a traditional tailback.
Player to watch Dace Rollins SR WR, HT: 6’1, WT: 180 Blessed with blazing speed, Rollins is looking for a breakout season. He should provide a potent deep threat so teams can’t load the box against Chase’s running game. “Dace was not on the field for the last six games last year and we really missed him. He has lots of potential and if he can put everything together, he should have a big year,” said head coach Daniel Bailey.
Coach's Corner
Don King Defensive Coordinator
How long have you been with the Chase program? King: 27 years How did you first get involved with football? King: "I fell in love with the game when my cousins invited me to play in the 4th grade and I’m still in love with it all these years later." What’s the biggest difference now than 27 years ago? King: "The paperwork. Football wise, it’s the offense. Offenses go in cycles like clothes from the ‘70’s When I first started coaching everybody was running the triple option. In the ‘90’s it was the spread. Now it’s back to the triple option again." No one can coach forever. What will you miss the most when you hang up your whistle? King: "The Friday Night Lights. That feeling you get deep inside tour gut when the lights come on can’t be topped. The camaraderie with the guys and the other coaches because you spend more time with them from August to November than you do with your family." What will you not miss? King: "August practices. The sun just beats down on the back of your neck and you can’t get away from the heat."
2012 Results Chase Trojans
2012 results Record: 5-7 Aug. 17 at West Lincoln L Aug. 24 Franklin L Aug. 31 Bessemer City W Sept. 7 at Cherryville W Sept. 14 Patton W Sept. 21 at R-S Central W Sept. 28 at Burns L Oct. 5 at Shelby L Oct. 12 Air. for Christ W Oct. 19 Freedom L Oct. 26 East Rutherford L Nov. 2 at Shelby* L *NCHSAA playoff game
13-10 28-14 40-6 21-18 10-7 21-14 35-0 49-7 40-6 44-18 24-21 10-7
Marquee Matchup — 9/20 at Shelby The Trojans are 0 for, well forever against the Golden Lions. Recent history suggests though, that the streak may be broken. Chase dropped a three point loss to Shelby last year, while the JV team only lost by one. Coach Bailey has thrown down the verbal gauntlet for Cleveland County in the preseason. A win versus Shelby would make an even bigger statement.
East Rutherford Cavaliers
6 • The Daily Courier • 2013 Football
Founded: 1962 • Enrollment: 764 • Classification: SMAC AA
Garrett Byers/The Daily Courier
Head Coach: Clint Bland
The East Rutherford offense is led by a trio of veteran wide receivers that provide steady targets for Cavalier quarterbacks. Pictured left to right: Kaleb McEntyre, Travis Waldroup-Rodriguez and Griffin Stamey.
In good hands By TRAVIS DURKEE The Daily Courier
F
OREST CITY — Despite losing their starting quarterback and running back from 2012, the East Rutherford Cavaliers are stacked with veteran talent at the wide receiver position. First-year starting quarterback Austin Hollifield will have his job made much easier when he looks to his left and right and sees senior targets Kaleb McEntyre, Travis Waldroup-Rodriguez and Griffin Stamey. "Those three have played a lot of varsity football," East Rutherford head coach Clint Bland said. "They have great hands, great speed and we want the ball in their hands as much as possible."
Trio of Cavalier receivers provide reliable targets
even a good blocker that takes care of his teamEach receiver provides a solid target, but in difmates" wide receivers coach Giorgio Lowrance ferent ways. said. "Kaleb is my speedster, I'm "Travis can use his body, posttrying to get the ball in his hands as up like he does in basketball “They have great much as I can." and shield the corner from the hands, great speed "Those guys can take a short pass ball," Bland said of the 6-foot-6 and we want the and run it another 20 yards," Bland Waldroup-Rodriguez. Stamey and McEntyre on the ball in their hands as said. As potent as the trio can be on other hand make things happen much as possible.” the field on Friday nights, they with their feet as much as their —Clint Bland understand their role as leaders on a hands. "Griffin is my main guy that knows what I want young team. "We have a lot of new receivers and we have a from every position. I would say he's the leader lot of responsibility to teach them plays and new in the group. He's is a great route-runner and is always going to give you his best effort. He's
Please see Page 19
2013 Football • The Daily Courier • 7
Player Spotlight
Player to watch Harrison Wilkerson JR K HT: 6’1”, WT: 175
Jordan Strickland SR DE HT: 6'1", WT: 232 The East Rutherford Cavaliers lost important leaders on offense from the 2012 season, but luckily for head coach Clint Bland and the Cavs, defensive leader Jordan Strickland is back for his senior season. After an All-Conference and All-County season in 2012 with 82 total tackles, two sacks, three forced fumbles and two blocked field goals, Strickland is set to cause even more distress for opposing offenses in 2013. “Jordan a wildman and to play defensive line you have to be,” Bland said. “He goes full speed all the time.” Although he is in his final high school season, Bland says Strickland is still a student of football. “As a senior he’s still learning to play the game,” Bland said. “His first year we just turned him loose and told him to find the ball. Each year we’ve progressed and taught him the game a little more and shown him how to control the gaps and what to do in other situations and he’s really picking up on that.” But what Strickland may lack in football nuances, he makes up for it with brute strength. “One thing with Jordan is that he’s a strong kid. He can get down inside and get a few sacks for us so we’re expecting a big year for him,” Bland said of the aspiring college-level linebacker.
As a sophomore in 2012, Harrison Wilkerson set himself apart as arguably the most reliable kicker in Rutherford County and was named the SMAC Kicker of the Year. “[Wilkerson] has put a lot of work in to be as good as he is,” head coach Clint Bland said. “When you have a kicker you can count on it’s huge. If I have a drive stall anywhere near the 30-yard line I feel comfortable sending him out there.”
Player to watch Kameron Garrison SOPH RB HT: 5'9", WT: 165 In a crowded stable of Cavalier running backs, youngster Kameron Garrison is the one expected to break away from the pack. The slender Garrsion has the speed to outrun defenders, but that isn’t what makes him Bland’s favorite type of ball carrier. “[Garrison] is a tough-nose runner,” Bland said. “He isn’t scared to stick it up the middle and get the tough yards.”
Coach's Corner
Max Champion Offensive Line Coach
How long have you been with East Rutherford? Champion: “Two years this time around but I was here for 22 years at another time.” How long have you been coaching? Champion: “Thirty-four years. I went from East, then to Chase for a while and then Central. I’ve been everywhere.” What are you going to miss the most about coaching? Champion: “Probably working with kids individually and watching them grow and get better. I’m big on teaching technique.” What are you not going to miss? Champion: “The long hours and how now I’m more slap-out tired because I’m so old. It’s wearing on me.”
2012 Results East Rutherford Cavaliers
2012 results Record: 5-7 Aug. 17 at Kings Moutnain Aug. 24 at McDowell Aug. 31 North Gaston Sept. 7 West Lincoln Sept. 14 R-S Central Sept. 21 at Patton Sept. 28 at Providence Day Oct. 5 Burns Oct. 12 at Freedom Oct. 19 Shelby Oct. 26 at Chase Nov. 2 at Polk County* *NCHSAA playoff game
L L W W W W L L L L W L
36-19 28-7 42-21 31-14 42-26 23-20 42-13 33-28 42-14 52-21 24-21 23-13
Marquee Matchup — 10/25 vs. Crest It's the final game of a four-game stretch where the Cavs take on Burns and Shelby in back-to-back weeks before playing Draughn the week prior to the Crest matchup. If the Cavs don't end that stretch with a win or two before going into the final two weeks of the season against R-S Central and Chase, the morale of the team could be in a downward spiral.
R-S Central Hilltoppers
8 • The Daily Courier • 2013 Football
Founded: 1925 • Enrollment: 925 • Classification: SMAC AA
Garrett Byers/The Daily Courier
The 2013 R-S Central offense is anchored by a veteran offensive line that features five seniors and one junior. Pictured left to right: Aaron Logan, Robbie Rothrock Dillon Hull, Ivan Gutierrez, Michael Murphy and Mark Minor.
Head Coach: Mike Cheek
Doin' the dirty work By TRAVIS DURKEE The Daily Courier
R
UTHERFORDTON - Affectionately referred to as “the big uglies” by numerous football personalities, the offensive line never garners too much attention despite how crucial they are to a football team. The R-S Central Hilltoppers tout one of the most experienced lines in the county with five seniors and a junior placing a hand on the ground before each play with Aaron Logan, Robbie Rothrock, Dillon Hull, Ivan Gutierrez, Michael Murphy and Mark Minor. “These guys have been around here,” head coach Mike Cheek said of the group that has been around since its freshman season. “They’re leaders in our locker room.” The experienced group understands its role. “It’s a weird situation because we’re there and we’re important, but we don’t really get any
Veteran offensive line leads charge for R-S Central
credit in the long run. We aren’t the all-stars in the in 2013. "After going 1-10 last year we had a great group,” Murphy said. turnout and a great summer program "If you don’t block right than and [the offensive line] has been nothing happens. It’s up to us “These guys have here leading the charge to get better," if the ball moves," Mark Minor been around here ... Cheek said. added. They're leaders in our And with a stout offensive line, the Luckily for the line, they coaches' jobs get much easier. have a coach who understands. locker room.” Offensive line coach Tommy —Mike Cheek "I sleep a whole lot better knowing I have these guys," Cheek said. Benton has been either playing "When you call the plays you want to or coaching offensive line for 19 know that your line can create space. Those guys years. understand what I want and they give it to me. In "If we're doing well you don't get your name order for us to be successful we have to have good in the paper. But if you aren't doing your job then ball control and our offensive line is key to that. you get the blame for not playing well," Benton We have to make sure we get 3, 4, 5 yards a carry said. "You have to have that effort and be a silent leader because you won't see your name in print." and go from there." After suffering through back-to-back 1-10 And another man who appreciates a hard-workseasons, the Hilltoppers held rigorous summer workouts in hopes of avoiding a similar outcome Please see Page 18
2013 Football • The Daily Courier • 9
Player Spotlight
Player to watch Nate Murray SR RB/DB HT: 5'10", WT: 160
Jared Foster-Smith SR DL HT: 6', WT: 225 For R-S Central the game starts in the trenches. A veteran offensive line is mirrored by a talented defensive line featuring junior Kaleb Hines and senior leader, Jared Foster-Smith. Foster-Smith, who garnered All-Conference honors in 2012, is expected to have a big senior season. “Jared is one of the best leaders on this team,” head coach Mike Cheek said of his senior lineman. “He’s one of the strongest kids on this team and it shows on the field.” Foster-Smith is equally successful off the field appearing in countless honor rolls illustrating how well-rounded he is as a young man. “He’s a real good kid,” Cheek said. “He comes out everyday with a good attitude and works hard. It really rubs off on the other guys.” Foster-Smith normally lines up on the end of the defensive line but is often seen shifted into a defensive tackle position, both key in the Hilltoppers’ new 4-2-5 defensive scheme. Many teams will run to the other side of the defensive to avoid a disruptive force like Foster-Smith, but Cheek said if it was up to him and he was other side, he’d challenge Foster-Smith. “He’s one of those players that’s tough to gameplan for. If I was an opposing coach I’d run the ball right at him and make him make the play,” Cheek said.
With the graduation of speedster Devante Austin, the Hilltoppers backfield is loaded with backs, but no true burners. That’s where Nate Murray steps in. Murray, who spends most of his time at wide receiver could find himself in the backfield to create big-play opportunities. “[Murray] is the one guy that could take a 5-yard gain, make one guy miss and take it 50 yards for a score,” head coach Mike Cheek said.
Player to watch Rashaun Whitesides SR RB/DB HT: 5'10", WT: 185 If anyone on the R-S Central roster looks like a football player, it’s Rashaun Whitesides. Whitesides will be one of the few Hilltoppers to see time on both sides of the ball as a cornerback/safety and as a tailback. “Ray is one of the fastest kids we have and he’s really strong,” head coach Mike Cheek said. “We’re running him both ways so we’re expecting a lot out of him.”
Coach's Corner
Lemont Jones Defensive Coordinator
How long have you been with R-S Central? Jones: “This is my second year.” How did you become involved with football? Jones: “I’ve been playing and coaching since 1985. I spent 18 years in Florida, 10 in southern Georgia and now I’m back in my home state.” What are you going to miss the most about coaching? Jones: “I’ll miss the friendships that you develop with kids and coaches.” What will you not miss? Jones: “Everything I’ve ever done I’ve been up early so the early practices don’t bother me. If I’m not coaching I’m sure I’ll be somewhere watching a practice.
2012 Results R-S Central Hilltoppers
2012 results Record: 1-10 Aug. 17 at McDowell Aug. 24 at East Henderson Aug. 31 Polk County Sept. 7 Erwin Sept. 14 at East Rutherford Sept. 21 Chase Sept. 28 at Freedom Oct. 5 Patton Oct. 12 Shelby Oct. 19 at Burns Oct. 26 at South Caldwell
L L W L L L L L L L L
20-14 58-28 22-15 38-15 42-26 21-14 49-7 15-14 48-12 49-6 33-6
Marquee Matchup — 11/1 vs. E. Rutherford As if the hottest county rivalry needed more gasoline thrown on the fire, the Hilltoppers haven't beaten East Rutherford since 2009 when they pulled off a 24-0 shutout over the Cavs. Since that game, R-S Central has gone 0-3 against the Cavaliers and have been outscored 102-60. And I forget to mention, it's Senior Night for the Hilltoppers.
Head Coach: Jerry Cash
Thomas Jefferson Gryphons
10 • The Daily Courier • 2013 Football
Founded: 1999 • Enrollment: 345 • Classification: Southern Piedmont A
All in The Family:
Martin and McCraw look to build on brothers' success at TJCA three touchdowns. “I definitely feel comfortable VONDALE — When back there,” he said. “I know quarterback Mac the offense so the transition Martin and running (from wide receiver to quarterback Will McCraw finished back) has not been that tough. their final football game at The hardest thing has been getThomas Jefferson in 2012, fans ting my throws down, but Mac might have thought that was helped me a lot with that.” the last time they would see What is tough for Mason is the Martin-McCraw combinathe prospect of living up to the tion in the Gryphon backfield. high standards set by Mac. The Not so. Thanks elder Martin, to younger “I've got some big who is currently brothers Mason shoes to fill, but I feel competing for a and Seth, those spot on UNC’s like this is my team names will conroster, became tinue to patrol now. It feels good to the first player be back under centhe Avondale from a Ruthgridiron in ter.” erford County 2013. —Mason McCraw program to pass “It feels good and rush for to be following over 1,000 yards in Mac’s footsteps,” said startsince 2004. ing quarterback Mason Martin. “It’s a lot of pressure and “I’ve got some big shoes to fill, responsibility taking over for but I feel like this is my team Mac because he had such a now. It feels good to be back great season,” he said. “The bigunder center.” gest thing is to try to be myself. Mason is no stranger to the Mac gives me helpful advice all quarterback position. Even the time, but I have to be my though he was primarily a own player.” receiver in 2012, he did spell That prospect bodes well for his brother under center late in the TJCA offense. the season. Mason also drew a “I’m good with my arm and start in his first ever high school my legs,” said Mason. “It’s game in 2011 before an injury about equal. Our offense is sidelined him for the rest of going to be more up-tempo. the year. In that contest versus The offense is really clicking North Wilkes, he completed 20 of 37 passes for 347 yards and Please see Page 16 By JACOB CONLEY Special toThe Daily Courier
A
Garrett Byers/The Daily Courier
Thomas Jefferson's Seth McCraw (80) and Mason Martin (14) aren't just taking over positions vacated by any All-County players ... those players were their brothers.
2013 Football • The Daily Courier • 11
Player Spotlight
Player to watch Mason Fenner JR, WR/DB/K/LS HT: 6’3 WT: 165
Efrim Borders SR WR HT: 6’ WT:175 Borders is easily the top returning offensive threat for the Gryphons in 2013. He averaged an eye-popping 14 yards per catch last season on his way to 756 yards and five touchdowns. “Efrim is a tremendous young man and a tremendous talent on the football field,” said head coach Jerry Cash. “He has been on varsity since he was a freshman when times weren’t so good. He stuck it out and has become a rare talent. That’s why he is getting looks from some colleges. I’m glad he is on our team and not playing against us.” Borders is also a weapon in the return game as he averaged 30 yards per return a season ago. He also ranked second on the team in all purpose yards at 121.9 per game. Borders is always a threat to take one back as he did twice last year. As a result, he was named to the NCHSAA Preseason All-State team as a returner. Fans can also expect to see Borders in the backfield this season. “We have to get the ball in his hands as much as possible, so we will spread him all over the field,” said Cash. “When we go into the I-formation, he will be our tailback. We will probably use that formation more as he gets comfortable back there.”
If there ever were a "Renaissance Man" award in prep football, Mason Fenner would be a prime candidate. The junior is expected to start on offense, defense and special teams for TJCA in 2013. Fenner is the most experienced at wide receiver. In 2012, he reeled in seven passes for 182 yards and a touchdown. “Mason came up with some very big catches for us last year, and I think that will continue,” said Cash. “But I think he is also valuable on special teams.
Player to watch Nick Mintz SOPH. S/QB HT: 5’9 WT:160 2013 marks Mintz’s debut on the varsity squad, though he did gain valuable experience as a member of the JV team. Mintz will split time at quarterback in certain situations. “Nick is very mobile and he is a good runner,” said head coach Jerry Cash. “He is very good at reading defenses and has a strong arm. You will see him some at quarterback this year."
Coach's Corner
Jamie Hicks Offensive Line Coach
How long have you been with the TJCA program? Hicks: Three years, but I was with Chase for 12 years before that, so 15 years of coaching total. You have coached at two county schools. What makes Rutherford County football so special? Hicks: The kids. It’s not really the football. It’s about the young men that make sacrifices every week to be able play on Friday night. How did you first get involved with football? Hicks: I really didn’t get involved until I started played for Chase from 1992-96. I also played at Mars Hill for a short time before I came back home to start coaching. No one can coach forever. What will you miss the most when you hang up your whistle? Hicks: Friday nights. The lights, the field, the atmosphere. I’m addicted to that Friday night feeling. What will you not miss? Hicks: The long hours. You work from June 10 to hopefully December. That’s a lot of hours.
2012 Results Thomas Jefferson Gryphons
2012 results Record: 6-6 Aug. 17 at North Wilkes Aug. 24 Andrews Aug. 31 at Asheville School Sept. 7 Rosman Sept. 14 Mitchell Sept. 21 at Avery County Sept. 28 Madison Oct. 5 at Mountain Heritage Oct. 12 Polk County Oct. 19 at Hendersonville Oct. 26 at Owen Nov. 2 Rosman* *NCHSAA playoff game
W W W W W W L L L L L L
14-12 48-7 26-7 28-27 27-6 13-6 18-8 54-36 44-21 35-21 64-12 26-14
Marquee Matchup — 8/30 at Rosman This may only be a non-conference game, but the Gryphons have to have this one circled on their calendars. The Tigers ended TJCA’s dream season in the first round of the playoffs last year, after a fourth-quarter Gryphon collapse. Many players and coaches feel like they gave that game away. Now the Gryphons have a chance to go on the road for some early-season revenge.
12 • The Daily Courier • 2013 Football
2013 Preseason All-County
Coty Flynn RB, TJCA
Efrim Borders WR, TJCA
Josh Wright RB, Chase
Jordon O'Rourke RB/WR/LB, Chase
Tyrell Boykins QB, Chase
Kaleb McEntyre WR, E. Rutherford
Travis Waldroup-Rodriguez
Jordan Strickland DL, E. Rutherford
Jay'len Hollis QB, R-S Central
Matt Atchley RB, R-S Central
Jared Foster-Smith DL, R-S Central
Harrison Wilkerson K, E. Rutherford
WR, E. Rutherford
Y O UR F U TURE C A REER B E G INS H E RE ! Rutherford County Schools’ Career Clusters
D O Y O U H A VE A N I N TER EST I N :
Contact Information: Tammy Campbell, Chase High Career Development Coordinator Donna Baldwin, East High Career Development Coordinator AlyssaFennell, Dotson, R/S Central High Career Development Coordinator Crystal CHS – 828.247.4191 / ERHS – 828.245.7290 / RSHS – 828.288.0288 In compliance with federal law, Career and Technical Education does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, religion, color, national or ethnic origin, age, disability, or military service in it’s policies, programs, activities, admissions, or employment.
2013 Football • The Daily Courier • 13
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14 • The Daily Courier • 2013 Football
2013 Cavalier football Friday, Aug. 23 vs. Owen Friday, Aug. 30 at North Gaston Friday, Sept. 6 at Tuscola Friday, Sept. 13 at Kings Mountain* Friday, Sept. 20 vs. East Burke Friday, Oct. 4 at Burns* Friday, Oct. 11 vs. Shelby* Friday, Oct. 18 at Draughn*
2013 'Topper football
Friday, Oct. 25 vs. Crest* (Homecoming) Friday, Nov. 1 at R-S Central* Friday, Nov. 8 vs. Chase* (Parent's night)
Friday, Aug. 23 vs. McDowell Friday, Sept. 6 at Polk County Friday, Sept. 13 vs. Shelby* Friday, Sept. 20 (*)Denotes conference game at Draughn* -All games start at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 27 vs. Crest* Friday, Oct. 11 at Chase* Friday, Oct. 18 vs. Kings Mountain* (Homecoming) Friday, Oct. 25
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2013 Football • The Daily Courier • 15
2013 Trojan football Friday, Aug. 23 at Newton Conover Friday, Sept. 6 vs. Bandys Friday, Sept. 13 vs. Burns* Friday, Sept. 20 at Shelby* Friday, September 27 vs. Draughn* Friday, Oct. 4 at Crest* Friday, Oct. 11 vs. R-S Central* Friday, Oct. 18 vs. North Gaston
2013 Gryphon football
Friday, Oct. 25 at Kings Mountain* Friday, Nov. 1 vs. East Burke* Friday, Nov. 8 at East Rutherford*
Friday, Aug. 23 at Robert E. Lee Academy (Bishopville, SC) Friday, Aug. 30 at Rosman Friday, Sept. 6 vs. Avery (*)Denotes conference game Friday, Sept. 13 -All games start at 7:30 p.m. at Laurens SC Academy Friday, Sept. 20 vs. Asheville School Friday, Sept. 27 vs. Rabun Gap Friday, Oct. 11 at Cherryville* Friday, Oct. 18
at Comm. School of Davidson* Friday, Oct. 25 at Bessemer City* Friday, Nov. 1 vs. Pine Lake Prep* Friday, Nov. 8 vs. Highland Tech* (*)Denotes conference game -All games start at 7:30 p.m.
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16 • The Daily Courier • 2013 Football
From Page 10 because of our great receivers. We are going to put up some points this year.” The season outlook is much less settled for Seth McCraw. The sophomore only saw action in two games last season and recorded a pair of tackles. McCraw’s primary role is expected to be filling his brother’s position at linebacker, though he could also see a few carries in a crowded Gryphon backfield.
“I did not get to play with my brother much last year,” said Seth. “But that time was very special. Being out there with him meant a lot.” While Seth does not expect to reproduce Will’s 1,000 yard season, he is confident he can be a vital part of the team. “I feel good coming into this year and I think I can be more productive,” he said. “It is going to be tough because I’m going to be playing the same posi-
tions (RB/LB) that Will did. I’ve got some big shoes to fill.” With Seth entering his first full season on the varsity level, he has gleaned plenty of advice from his older brother. “The biggest thing Will has taught me is to stay low on offense and defense,” he said. “He helps me a lot and I’m learning from the coaches and the other guys, too.” Both Martin and McCraw hope to take what they have learned from their
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2013 Football • The Daily Courier • 17
From Page 4 me one of those, ‘you have got to be kidding me’ looks. When Sierra said she was here for football, I said all right then let’s go. From that moment, she became part of the team, and aside from the separate dressing area, I treat her like any other player.� Blackwell joins a growing number of girls playing high school football in North Carolina. According to NCHSAA historian Rick Strunk, nearly half a dozen girls make JV or varsity squads each year. “It’s most common at smaller schools with small rosters,� said Strunk. “Most young ladies are kickers. To have someone play on the line is rare, but not unprecedented.� The decision to put Blackwell on the offensive and defensive line was an easy one for Bailey. “Sierra has extremely quick feet,� he said. “And that’s what you need to be successful on the line.� Playing on the line has proved to be
difficult in some cases for Blackwell. “Sometime I struggle to be in the right places,� she said. “It’s my first year of playing football ever, so I’ve got a lot to learn. My teammates and coaches are helping me though, and I feel like I’m getting better.� Bailey agrees. “The triple option is one of the toughest schemes blocking wise, for anybody to learn,� he said. “When you consider that Sierra has never played football before, what she is doing out here is just amazing. She has such quick feet that it makes up for some of the inexperience and with her work ethic, she is catching up fast.� Blackwell hopes that her hard work will payoff, not only for her, but also for future generations of female football players.  “Football is the best game in the world,� she said. “I’ve had several friends come up to me and say that they wish they could play. I tell them ‘you can’. Hopefully, one day more girls will play football because I did. That would be pretty cool.�
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18 • The Daily Courier • 2013 Football
From Page 8
ing offensive line ... the quarterback. "My relationship with the line has to be tight and strong. Anything they need, I got them," said R-S Central starting quarterback Jay'len Hollis. "We help each other out. They are the driving force for the offense and open things up for us." The line seems to approve of their signal caller as well. "If we don’t do our job than the play’s over. Last year our big problem was pointing fingers," Rothrock
said. "Now Jay’len will just smack us on the head or on the butt and tell us to just fix it and not worry about it." But for a group of veteran big men, it's all about playing together. "They're all good guys, they all work together and play together as brothers. That's the way the offensive line has to be," Benton said of the line. "I gave them the example of slapping somebody as opposed to coming together and punching them. We want to be that fist punching somebody coming off the line of scrimmage."
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2013 Football • The Daily Courier • 19
From Page 6 routes," Waldroup-Rodriguez said. "Coach Lowrance doesn't have the hours in the day to go through all 30 receivers and show them everything. It's up to us to show them how to put in the work because we can't waste any time. It's up to them to fall in behind us." "We try to set an example and show them that they need to hustle all the time," Stamey said about the younger receivers. "We get on some of them a little bit but it's more playful." The group relishes the opportunity to be the "old men" on the Cavaliers roster. "It's really about setting an example. When somebody leaves there has to be someone there to step in," WaldroupRodriguez said. The only downside about having three all-confernce caliber receivers is that only one can catch the ball on a given play. "The most frustrating thing is being open and not getting the ball," Stamey said. "I just go tell [the quarterback] that I'm open and to get me the ball so I can make something happen." "I think I was the worst about that coming from Thomas Jefferson to here where I didn't get quite as many passes," Waldroup-Rodriguez added. "We had four good receivers last year so it was different seeing the ball spread around." But like the receivers acknowledge, sometimes it's best to just let it go. "You don't want to really say anything because you might make him mad and then he'll never throw you the ball," Stamey joked.
"They're all great receivers and great kids," Bland said. "We'd love to get them the ball but there's just one ball. We'll do what we can to keep them all happy." The young man tasked with spreading the ball around, Hollifield, can rest easy knowing that his receivers want nothing more than to make his life easier. "We got to help Austin out," Stamey said. "We need to run crisp routes and catch the ball when it comes our way." They may not get the ball every time they want it, but one thing is for certain, this group is a nightmare for opposing defenses. "Since I've been involved with East Rutherford football this is probably one of the most skillful groups I've seen. I'm excited to see what they do and I expect big things," Lowrance said. "People will have problems with this group because you can't just double team one guy." And with such a young, inexperienced offense, the wideouts understand their importance. "I feel like with this team we're one of the most important positions," McEntyre said. "I want to be a good example, a good leader and I want to help this team win football games."
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Fedora, Tar Heels aim for run at ACC crown this year. I think they all know what's out there, but it's not something we've HAPEL HILL — North Carotalked about as a team." lina is finally free of NCAA The Tar Heels (8-4, 5-3 ACC in 2012) sanctions that kept the Tar have lost big-play tailback Gio Bernard Heels out of last year's Atlantic Coast and three linemen to the NFL from Conference championship game. their record-setting offense. But senior UNC finished tied quarterback Bryn Renner “I think last year atop the Coastal Diviis back with tight end Eric sion in coach Larry Ebron and receiver Quinwas good for us. It Fedora's first year, made guys really dig shad Davis as top targets though the one-year and left tackle James down and find out postseason ban ended Hurst anchoring the line. the run after 12 games. why they played the The Tar Heels' nogame” That success sends huddle spread offense the Tar Heels into this —Larry Fedora averaged a school-record year believing that the 40.6 points and racked up program's first league 5,827 total yards, nearly 600 yards more title since 1980 is within reach. than the previous record set in 1993. "I think last year was good for us," The defense — which struggled at Fedora said. "It made guys really dig times while installing a 4-2-5 scheme down and find out why they played — returns senior defensive end Kareem the game. I think that will carry over Martin and a secondary that includes re-
By AARON BEARD The Associated Press
C
Predicted finish in the ACC: Third in the Coastal Division. turning starters Jabari Price, Tre Boston and Tim Scott. The players entered last season knowing they weren't going to a bowl no matter how many games they won. Fedora's second season starts with a trip to South Carolina on Aug. 29, and Martin said he senses a different vibe with the ban is gone. "It definitely gives us that extra incentive and extra motivation knowing that every game is going to decide where we're going to play in December — as opposed to last year where we were just playing for pride," Martin said. "Now we have that extra thing to play for. I think it's getting a lot of guys excited, for South Carolina especially."
Gerry Broome/The Associated Press
North Carolina coach Larry Fedora watches over an NCAA college footbal practice in Chapel Hill, N.C. North Carolina finished tied atop the Coastal Division in coach Fedora's first year, though NCAA sanctions kept the Tar Heels ou of the ACC title game.
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22 • The Daily Courier • 2013 Football
Wolfpack ready for run under new coach Doreen Gerry Broome/The Associated Press
North Carolina State coach Dave Doeren yells during an NCAA college football practice in Raleigh. North Carolina State has a new coach in Doeren and a new offense. It remains to be seen whether the changes will mean more success in 2013 or a year filled with growing pains.
By AARON BEARD The Associated Press
R
ALEIGH — North Carolina State is hoping new coach Dave Doeren can provide a jolt to a program struggling to sustain momentum in the Atlantic Coast Conference. The school hired Doeren away from Northern Illinois after firing Tom O'Brien. N.C. State went to four bowls in six years under O'Brien and nearly reached the ACC title game in 2010, yet the on-field results often fell short of expectations — including last year's 7-6 season that began with hopes of contending for the league title. Now it's up to the 41-year-old coach, who went 23-4 in two seasons at Northern Illinois, to change things in 2013 and beyond. "He's never rattled," receiver Rashard
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Smith said. "He's the upbeat, smiling guy. He's ready for any situation. With Coach Doeren, you can tell he's ready for anything to happen." The day he was hired, Doeren said he thought he could make a difference for a program that seemed "very close to getting to the next step." His staff has installed a no-huddle offense that Doeren said blends elements from Wisconsin — where Doeren spent five seasons as an assistant — and Oregon. The defense stayed with a 4-3 scheme, but the coaches have pushed both units to work at a faster pace. "I feel like there's a lot of bright eyes," Doeren said. "There's good energy. ... The up-tempo offense and the uptempo practice style we have requires a certain mindset and the guys are working through that really well." N.C. State must find a new quarter-
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Predicted finish in the ACC: Third in the Atlantic Division. back after Mike Glennon headed to the NFL and three new starters on the offensive line, while the defense has lost its top four tacklers. But Doeren is hoping the buzz that comes with all the changes keeps his players engaged as they work to solve those problems. "I think everywhere you go in fall camp, spirits are renewed," Doeren said. "They're all undefeated right now. You can see certain seniors have a look in their eyes that you like to see, knowing that they're out of time and they've got to get it done now."
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2013 Football • The Daily Courier • 23
Duke not satisfied with 1st bowl berth since '94 By JOEDY McCREARY The Associated Press
D
URHAM — Those two helped bring Duke from the bottom of the conference to the middle of the pack — and that's significant progress from a program that went winless four times in the 11-year span from 1996-2006 and won a total of two games in the three seasons before David Cutcliffe was hired. Duke was 6-2 and in control in the Coastal Division following a last-seconds win over rival North Carolina but lost its last five games, including a loss to Cincinnati in the Belk Bowl, to finish with its 18th straight losing record. "I have no doubt in my mind that Duke football's moving forward, but we wanted to continue on a pace that's dictated by us and our commitment to excellence," Cutcliffe said.
Things to know heading into the season: 1. THE EXPECTATIONS HAVE CHANGED. Maybe not from the outside — the Blue Devils were picked last in the Coastal for the eighth time since 2005, when the ACC split into divisions — but certainly from within. Cutcliffe, who led Mississippi to five bowls in six-plus seasons at Mississippi from 1998-2004, says the bowl loss "left you wanting more, and that's what you wanted to see." A manageable schedule should allow Duke to claim one of the ACC's nine bowl berths — especially if the Blue Devils can go undefeated in regular-season nonconference games for the first time since 1994. 2. SO HAS THE OFFENSE. That pro-style offensive scheme of Cutcliffe's that helped groom Peyton and Eli Manning into Super Bowl MVPs has been tweaked. Sure, the Blue Devils will still
Predicted finish in the ACC: Fifth in the Coastal Division.
Gerry Broome/The Associated Press
In this Monday, Aug. 5, 2013 photo. Duke coach David Cutcliffe watches over an NCAA college football practice in Durham, N.C. Now that the Blue Devils’ streak of bowl-less seasons is finally over, they want more.
throw it plenty, but they also are incorporating some elements of the trendy zone-read option to better take advantage of new starting QB Anthony Boone — who's exponentially more mobile than Sean Renfree ever was. Offensive
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coordinator Kurt Roper says Boone won't necessarily rush for 100 yards per game "but the schemes that we can use in the run game, that's another factor the defense has to account for." 3. PUT THE "D'' IN DUKE. The Blue Devils' 4-2-5 defensive system should be better this year — mainly because it'd be tough to be worse. Duke ranked 10th or lower in all four of the ACC's main stat categories, allowed a leagueworst 36 points per game and gave up at least 41 points in six of its final seven games, going 1-6 in that span. Duke needs its experienced front six (with three redshirt seniors) to avoid being overmatched, after two years when DBs had to lead the team in tackles. LB Kelby Brown, who missed all of 2012
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