NWA Football Preview 2012

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The Whole Story

Clint Stoerner was born in Texas, and that was the first obstacle he had to overcome in his career. Texas and Arkansas have endured a longtime rivalry, especially when it comes to football.

But Stoerner, a standout Texas quarterback, chose Arkansas, and the state has taken him in and made him one of its own.

Stoerner was the quarterback for the Hogs during the 1997, 98, and 99 seasons, a time that many claim restored the sport of football in Arkansas.

During this time, he set single game records for pass attempts (52 against Alabama in 1999), pass attempts in a season (357 in 1997), career pass attempts (1,023), career pass completions (528), passing yards in a game (387 against LSU in 1997), passing yards in a season (2,629 in 1998), touchdown passes in a season (26 in 1998), career touchdown passes(57) and consecutive passes without an interception (134). Stoerner also went on to play for the Dallas Cowboys for four seasons, and started two games in the 2001 season. Today Stoerner is a successful businessman in the Little Rock area. But each one of these successes has its own obstacles, and it was the process of overcoming these obstacles that made Stoerner the man he is today.

Clint Stoerner started playing football at the age of five. “I had an older brother who was two years older than me, but I was bigger than him, and big for my age, so I played up in his league,” Stoerner says.

In those early days, Clint played running back and linebacker for the Optimus League Ponies.

But Clint honed his craft at quarterback in later years, and was a standout high school quarterback, starting for the Texas team in the Texas- California All-Star game. “I ended up having a pretty good high school career, and I have Dick Olin to thank for a lot of that,” Stoerner says. “Coach Olin was my high school coach and he really believed in me, and he promised me that if I stuck with him, he’d get me a Division 1 scholarship. I didn’t really believe him, but he kept his world.”

When recruiting season came around, Clint was in more of a demand than he could have ever expected, and Coach Olin’s promise of a Division 1 scholarship had come to fruition. He visited Vanderbilt, Kansas, and LSU, and was offered scholarships by all three. But none of those felt like home for Stoerner. However, from the moment he stepped foot on Arkansas’s campus, something was different. “From my very first visit there I fell in love with everything. The guys I met on my visit were great and we really hit it off.”

Stoerner would go on to become one of the Hogs’ most prolific passers and an icon around the state of Arkansas, but not before he would have to overcome another massive hurdle, and this one would be even bigger than before.

Going into the 1998 season, the Razorback football team knew something was different. “We had just hired Coach Nutt, and he was so different from AR Sports NWA Football Preview 2012 • Pg. 5

Coach Ford,” Stoerner says.

“Everything was different: the coaches’ attitudes, the players’ attitudes, practice schedules, just everything. Until that point we had been trained to just beat on each other, and then Coach Nutt came in and we relaxed and played football.”

The new attitude towards Razorback football transpired to the field, and the Hogs went on an epic 8-0 run. In their ninth game, they faced off against the top-ranked Tennessee Volunteers. “Really the game against Tennessee was no different,” Stoerner says. “It was a big game, and people were very excited about it, but Nutt did a good job about keeping it all suppressed.”

The game started, and things were going just as the Razorbacks had hoped. They were playing right along with the top ranked team in the nation, and it felt like just another game for the Hogs. “It was the best college football game that I’d ever played in,” Stoerner says. “I remember thinking we’d arrived, that we were beating the tar out of the best team in the nation. Things were going just about as good as they could. For the first time, I thought we had a pretty good team.”

Then it happened.

With 1:43 left to play, the Razorbacks needed to only make one first down to solidify the win over the top-ranked Volunteers. But Stoerner stumbled coming out from under center and fumbled the ball. Tennessee recovered, scored a touchdown, and went on to win the National Championship. Arkansas would finish the season 9-3.

“I had to take the blame and move on, that’s just the way I was raised,” Stoerner says. “And honestly the only thing that was on my mind were my teammates. I felt like I had let my teammates down. Of course there were bigger implications to this game, but that’s not what I was thinking about. I wasn’t thinking about the fans, the rankings, or the coaches. I was just thinking about my teammates, and that group of seniors, that would never get to play Tennessee again, and I was worried that I had let them down.

That was my only regret.”

There was no point in worrying about the past though, and Clint’s work would pay off when the Razorbacks faced the Volunteers again in 1999. “We had really high hopes for that season,” Stoerner says. “Things didn’t go as planned early on, so we kind of had the Tennessee game circled for a long time.”

This time around, the Volunteers were again ranked amongst the top five in the nation and had hopes of another National Championship.

Down 24-21 late in the fourth quarter Clint found his favorite target, Anthony Lucas, in the end zone to put the Hogs up 28-24.

The defense held, and the Razorbacks ended the Volunteers Championships hopes by the same exact score that they had been beaten by a year before.

Stoerner completed 18 passes on 28 attempts for over 300 yards and three touchdowns.

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entire career that I really felt pressure. To me, there was no other outcome for that game other than winning. Everyone played great, it all came together, and we won,” Stoerner says.

After his college career, Clint never thought he would continue to play football. But he did. “I look up one day, and I’m playing for the Dallas Cowboys, America’s team, and I realized that I didn’t ever even think that I would get the chance to play Division 1 football. I knew right then that I truly got the most out of what I had,” Stoerner says.

Clint played for five seasons in the NFL, four with the Cowboys and one with the Miami Dolphins. He started two games in 2001 for the Cowboys, but was later released. “I never really felt like I belonged in the NFL. I always felt undersized or like my arm wasn’t strong enough. It was such a business and they put all their chips where there money is invested, and it wasn’t invested in me,” Stoerner says.

Now that Clint is working to establish his company, Stoerner and Havas Insurance Agency, he can look back and see just how football and the obstacles that it presented molded him into the man that he is today. “It’s human nature when something bad happens to think the worst, but from all of those situations I’ve learned not to over react. And that goes with the good and the bad. I’ve learned to be a good manager of people. It’s all about reactions. Sports have taught me how to live and deal with life, and that’s all that I could have ever asked for,” Stoerner says.

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BENTONVILLE FAYETTEVILLE ROGERS ROGERS HERITAGE SILOAM SPRINGS SPRINGDALE SPRINGDALE HAR-BER VAN BUREN* Look for Van Buren in the 2012 AR Sports Fort Smith Football Preview*

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SCOUT ALEXANDER: SILOAM SPRINGS - RB - SR. AUSTIN ALLEN: FAYETTEVILLE - QB - SR. ALEX BRIGNONI: FAYETTEVILLE - FS - SR. NICK BRYNE: SPRINGDALE HAR-BER - TE - SR. JORDAN DENNIS: SPRINGDALE - WR - JR. BROOKS ELLIS: FAYETTEVILLE - LB - SR. JOSH FRAZIER: SPRINGDALE HAR-BER - NG- JR. BRICE GAHAGANS: FAYETTEVILLE - RB - SR. NATE GNEITING: BENTONVILLE - S- SR. FORREST JOHNSON: ROGERS HERITAGE - WR - SR. GARRETT KAUFMAN: BENTONVILLE - ILB - SR. TUCKER LEE: SPRINGDALE HAR-BER - LB - SR. ALEX MILES: ROGERS HERITAGE- DB - SR. CLAY PATRICK: SPRINGDALE - LB - SR. JOSH QUALLS: ROGERS HERITAGE - QB - JR. JOSE REYES: SILOAM SPRINGS - LB - SR. HUNTER SMITH: ROGERS - DT - SR. AUSTIN VAN POUCKE: SILOAM SPRINGS - QB - SR. TEARRIS WALLACE: BENTONVILLE - RB - SR. STOKES WENZLER: ROGERS - SB - SR. Look for Van Buren in the 2012 AR Sports Fort Smith Football Preview*

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MARCUS ADAMS: GRAVETTE - OL - SR. COLE BARROW: MT. HOME - LB - SR. SPENCER BOUDREY: FARMINGTON - RB - SR. MATTHEW CANFIELD: WEST FORK - OL - SR. TYLER CASEBOLT: ELKINS - LB - SR. ETHAN CHAPIN: BERRYVILLE - RB/S - JR. JAROD COUSINS: GENTRY - WR - JR. TYLER CUMMINGS: LINCOLN - RB/LB - JR. MICHAEL EVERT: HARRISON - RB - JR. DARIAN FROUD: GREENLAND - QB/SS - SR. QUINTON HUMBARD: GREEN FOREST - RG - SR. JACOB KAHL: PRAIRIE GROVE - G - SR. STOCKTON MALLETT: YELLVILLE-SUMMIT - G - SR. LOGAN MCCOLLOUGH: HUNTSVILLE - TE/ILB - SR. RYAN MICHAELIS: SHILOH CHRISTIAN - WR/DB - SR. WYATT MONTGOMERY: WEST FORK - RB - JR. EVAN OWENS: DECATUR - QB/WR - SR. JACOB RAPLH: SHILOH CHRISTIAN - OL - SR. DAYTON WINN: PEA RIDGE - RB - SR. COOPER WINTERS: PRAIRIE GROVE - QB - SR.

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Youth Football: Heat Stress and Injury

Recommendations and Guidelines To safely and sufficiently acclimatize in the early season and improve the safety profile for each player, teams should use graduated repeated exposure to heat stress, training intensity and volume, and the football uniform, combined with appropriate alterations of practice intensity and duration, equipment cover, and between practice recovery time. This will allow players to adapt more safely and effectively.

Acclimatization During the Football Preseason Many athletes will report to preseason practice with minimal conditioning and without sufficient acclimatization to the heat. To minimize heat strain and allow a safe transition to full-intensity practice in full gear, gradual and increasing exposure to practice intensity and duration and gradual introduction of the different uniform configurations are critical. Two-a-day conditioning and training sessions should not be introduced in the first week of preseason practice.

If two-a-day sessions are introduced in the second week of practice, they should not be scheduled on consecutive days. A minimum of three hours with specific instructions should be given for the athletes to cool down, rest, eat, and sufficiently restore fluids between same-day sessions.

A suggested practice schedule emphasizing acclimatization during the first 14 days: • Initial 6-day acclimatization period: — Days 1 and 2 – Single practice session with helmets only, no live contact, and not to exceed three hours of warm-up, conditioning, instruction, breaks, and cool-down.

— Days 3, 4, and 5 – Single practice session with helmets and shoulder pads only, no live contact, and not to exceed three hours of warm-up, conditioning, instruction, breaks, and cool-down.

Limited contact may be initiated with blocking sleds and tackling dummies on days four and five.

— A second 60-min. walk-through may be scheduled each of the first five days for instruction in team formations and plays—however, there should be no running, conditioning, weight-room work, protective equipment (e.g., helmets, shoulder pads),

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or equipment related to football (e.g., footballs, blocking dummies, blocking sleds) during these sessions.

— Day 6 – Single practice session with full pads allowed not to exceed three hours of warm-up, conditioning, instruction, breaks, and cool-down, with no live contact drills (use sleds and tackling dummies only).

• Day 7 – Off. • Days 8-13 – Allow multiple practice sessions on a two-aday, one-a-day alternating rotation, with the option of full pads based on practice modification parameters (see next section), not to exceed three hours in one practice session (including warm-up, conditioning, instruction, breaks, and cool-down) and five hours a day combined practice duration (including all within-session breaks), with at least three continuous hours of recovery time between sameday sessions.

• Intra-squad scrimmages should not be scheduled before day 12 of the 14-day period.

• Day 14 – Off.

Practice Modifications to Reduce Heat Exhaustion or Exertional Heat Stroke Risk With increasing levels of heat and humidity, the risk for heat exhaustion or exertional heat stroke can increase dramatically, especially if practice intensity is high. Insulating football protective equipment further increases the risk.

• Practices should be modified for the safety of the athletes, in relation to the degree of environmental heat stress on the practice field.

• Midday (12–4 p.m.) is often the hottest part of the day, especially on a bright, sunny day. However, late afternoon or early evening (4–7 p.m.) can be just as hot or hotter during the summer months.

• When conditions are too extreme (i.e., unusual high heat and humidity), practice should be canceled, moved into airconditioned spaces, or held outside as walk-through sessions with no protective gear or conditioning activities, with regular breaks for fluid consumption and reduced sun exposure.

• Adjust the work-to-rest ratio by lowering the activity duration and/or intensity and increasing the frequency and duration of breaks to lessen the thermal strain on players.

• Many activities can be continued safely by removing equipment and having players in shorts with helmets and shoulder pads only (not full equipment) or shorts only (with all protective equipment removed), as heat stress increases.

• Players should wear as little covering as is appropriate and helmets should be taken off whenever possible (e.g., during instruction).

• Players should wear light-colored clothing during practice and use shade (if available) during breaks.

• Regular breaks should be included in each practice session schedule, to allow rest, cooling, and fluid replacement, at least every 30–45 min. Breaks should be more frequent, as heat and humidity rise.

• Provide easy access (not too far away and plenty of fluid stations) to chilled fluids and adequate time for drinking.

• Athletic trainers or volunteer staff should bring fluid to players on the field between “official” breaks, using portable fluid delivery systems.

• Practice parameters should be individualized for athletes known to be at greater risk for heat injury.

• Players with acute gastrointestinal or febrile (feverish) illness should not be allowed to participate.

• Players should not use stimulants such as ephedrine, Ma Haung (Chinese ephedra), and high-dose caffeine that are often found in certain dietary supplements and “energy” drinks.

• Changes in performance or personality might be early indications of developing heat injury. • For any changes in player performance, personality, or wellbeing, including pale color, bright red flushing, dizziness, headache, excessive fatigue, fainting, vomiting, or complaints of feeling hot or cold during practice or conditioning drills, immediately stop practice for all affected players.

• In addition to all the above, prudent special precautions for players with sickle-trait should include no day-one fitness runs and no timed miles or sustained sprints over 500 meters. Any cramping should be treated as sickling, until proved otherwise.

• Teams should use the “buddy” system (two players who play the same position are assigned to “keep an eye on” each other).

• If heat stroke is suspected, the player should be stripped of equipment and cooled in a tub of cold water or by using rapidly rotating ice water towels to the extremities, trunk, and head and ice packs in the armpits, groin, and neck areas, until emergency personnel can assume care and evacuate the athlete to the nearest emergency facility. Importantly, cooling should continue en route.

• If urine becomes tan or brown in the first hour up to several days after practice, players should immediately seek medical attention.

• Coaches and support staff should have annual education on heat-related illness reduction, identification, and first aid.

This summary uses selected excerpts from the Roundtable Consensus Statement Youth Football: Heat Stress and Injury Risk published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise® (August 2005, 37(8): 1421-30), which was developed from an official ACSM Roundtable held June 30–July 2, 2004 at Indianapolis, IN. Support for the Roundtable from the following is gratefully acknowledged: Gatorade Sports Science Institute and NFL Charities/NFL Youth Fund. Special thanks to educational supporters American Academy of Pediatrics, National Athletic Trainers’ Association and National Federation of State High School Associations.

EXPERT PANEL: Michael F. Bergeron, Ph.D., FACSM (Co-Chair), Douglas B. McKeag, M.D., FACSM (Co-Chair), Douglas J. Casa, Ph.D., ATC, FACSM, Priscilla M. Clarkson, Ph.D., FACSM, Randall W. Dick, FACSM, E. Randy Eichner, M.D., FACSM, Craig A. Horswill, Ph.D., FACSM, Anthony C. Luke, M.D., MPH, Frederick Mueller, Ph.D., FACSM, Thayne A. Munce, Ph.D., William O. Roberts, M.D., FACSM, and Thomas W. Rowland, M.D., FACSM

Monitoring Players During Practice All players should be closely monitored for signs and symptoms of developing heat-related injury. Players who are not acclimated or aerobically fit, especially large linemen with excessive body fat, warrant closer and constant scrutiny for heat illness.

• Pre-practice daily body weight and urine-specific gravity or urine color can be used as indirect indicators of hydration status.

• Pre- and post-practice body weight measurements can help in determining how much fluid should be replaced before the next practice and to educate players regarding better fluid intake during practice.

• There should be enough coaches, staff, and athletic trainers to effectively monitor all athletes on the field for signs of heat illness.

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The Kids Come First

By Marty Barnes

To give a brief philosophical description of Whitey Smith is simple. He is a man who cares deeply for kids and the Rogers community. Make no mistake about Whitey’s philosophy, “Kids come first, they are the face of our future.” His 54-year marriage to Janice is a living testimony to his lifelong dream of giving the kids every opportunity to succeed. As Whitey put it, “Janice is the best wife a person like me could have. She quickly saw that I had a great desire to help kids.” Not long into their marriage, Janice explained to Whitey that she knew she was always going to be number two in his life, but she could live with that as long as he stayed true to his desire to make kids number one.

“I think we are both that way, that kids are number one.”

To say Whitey has been a true Rogers community sports FANatic would be an understatement. Whitey’s sports career started in Rogers, and he credits his teachers and coaches with formulating his lifelong ideals.

Whitey got involved in volunteering for community and school fundraising shortly after graduation (he is a 1956 graduate of RHS). Whitey volunteered for forty years as the clock operator at the high school football and basketball home games. He also started volunteering for “cooks” (a term used by Whitey to describe the cookouts to benefit Rogers kids) in 1959.

The original “cooks” were to help as a scholarship fundraiser. The original “cooks” were limited to five “cooks” per year. As time went by, “there was a need for a new person to step forward and continue the ‘cooks’ that were started by men that influenced me in the importance of helping kids.” The “cooks” have now grown to average 30 “cooks” per year; in fact, there are 38 “cooks” scheduled for the 2012-13 school year.

Thirty of the “cooks” are for fundraisers for students/ athletes from Rogers and Heritage High Schools. The other eight “cooks” are for community type fundraising events. Whitey also makes sure to point out the fact, “we schedule our “cooks” evenly between the two high schools (Rogers HS & Heritage HS).” He adamantly emphasizes this statement, “The only difference the two high schools has made is that we now have two schools, BUT we are still one community, Rogers,

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and that is very important to remember.” The history of the “cooks” has taken on another change with the number of volunteers that have stepped forward to make sure the “cooks” are successful. In the old days, approximately five to eight men manned the cooking stations. Now they have 10 to 12 regular workers at every “cook” and another 15 to 20 workers that rotate around to work as volunteers. Many of those volunteers were recipients of the “cooks” when they were in the Rogers school system.

As Whitey puts it, “I know I am in that last phase of my life, but I am at peace with myself. I have known a lot of great friends, I have been able to be a part of helping a significant number of kids, and there are a lot of good Rogers men that will step up and continue this tradition. I feel like I did my best for the kids and the future Rogers generations. When the time comes, I am ready. I really feel I have accomplished about everything I set out to do.” He describes a discussion he had with his daughter recently. For some reason, this discussion turned to what he wanted at his funeral.

Whitey explains, “I made sure she understood that I was not to be put into some suit and tie in that tin can.

Dress me in a regular shirt or t-shirt, just like I normally look. BUT there is one important matter she needed to understand and make sure this was done. I have a quilt that on one side is the Rogers High School royal blue and white and the other side is the orange and navy of Heritage High School. Make sure the quilt is folded correctly and showing both schools and colors.

Drape that quilt over my casket because I am a Rogers boy!” Enough said!

Whitey Smith

1956 Rogers High School Graduate Wife: Janice Smith Married: 54 years Family: Children - Tim & Becky Three grandchildren Two great grandchildren Business Owner: Ozark Fence Co., Inc. Whitey Quotes: “Parents, go see your kids play. Don’t send them to play, you take them to play” “When you go see your kids play remember this: let the coaches coach, let the players play, and you support the whole team.”

“The secret sauce used in the “cooks” is really not a secret - 3 gallons

of white vinegar, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 2 Tbs. of garlic powder, 2 Tbs. black pepper - use as marinade or dab on during cooking or both.”

“I am no better man than the lowest bum BUT I am as good a man as the best man around.”

Whitey’s Profile

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Bentonville

TIGERS New Season Same Goals “He’s a very good quarterback,” Lunney says.

“Reece is a great competitor, and his teammates love him. He’s not very tall. But Dallas Hardison wasn’t tall either but won a lot of games during his time here. We can win with Reece as our quarterback, no doubt about it.”

Bentonville Tigers Conference: 7A West Head Coach: Barry Lunney Sr. Years as Head Coach at school: 8 Record at School: 65-18 Athletic Director: Scott Passmore Football Staff: Barry Lunney Jr. – Off. Coord./QB Rick Rachel – Running Backs Aaron Danenhaur – Offensive Line Kevin York – Wide Receivers Robbie Jones – Co-Def. Coord./CB David Pollard – Co-Def. Coord./ Inside LB 2011 Overall/Conference Record: 12-1 / 7-0 Varsity Players: 70 Returning Lettermen: 25 Returning Offensive Starters: 3 Returning Defensive Starters: 8 Offensive System: 1 Back Defensive System: 3-4

Karrie Jean Photography

Despite a 12-1 overall record, the 2011 season left the Bentonville Tigers imagining what could have been.

They dominated every game leading up to the state championship, outscoring opponents by a staggering thirty-five points in the regular season.

After posting blowout playoff victories over Rogers (61-6) and Springdale (48-0), Bentonville seemed poised to win the state championship and complete their run toward perfection.

But the Tigers were stunned in a 29-28 overtime loss to Fayetteville, in which the Bulldogs completed a two-point conversion to win the game and pull off the upset against the heavily favored Tigers.

In 2012, coach Barry Lunney sets his sights on the state championship once again, but this time, he wants to leave without a broken heart. “We had an outstanding season,” Lunney says. “Our success that we had last year should inspire the returners to work even harder and have another successful season. Our goals always remain the same—win the conference title, and win the state title.”

The Bentonville offense, which averaged fortytwo points a game last season, returns only three starters. Senior quarterback Reece Dollins (6’0, 180 lbs) fills the large shoes left by Dallas Hardison, who graduated last year. Dollins has a strong yet accurate arm, and has mobility in the pocket.

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Joining him in the backfield is senior Tearris Wallace (5’11, 215 lbs). Wallace rushed for nearly 350 yards last season and averaged 5.5 yards per carry. They are supported by a big offensive line comprising senior tackles Trevor Foster (6’6, 280 lbs) and Aaron Risenhoover (6’5, 305 lbs), senior guards Zack McBride (6’1, 260 lbs) and Zach Cooper (6’0, 255 lbs) and junior center Zach Brunetti (6’0, 265 lbs). Juniors Jack Kraus (6’5, 235 lbs) and Chase Morse (6’4, 225 lbs) start at the tight end positions.

Seniors Trey Perkins (6’0, 155 lbs) and Kaleb Haney (6’2, 175 lbs) lead the wide receivers.

“We should be good on offense, but we will be starting over,” Lunney says. “A lot depends on the offensive line and how fast they progress.

I just hope it won’t take too much time, as our schedule is very difficult.”

The Tigers hope to benefit from an experienced defense which returns eight starters, and Lunney hopes for them to compensate for the lack of experience on the offensive side. “We feel going into the spring that our defense will be the strong Karrie Jean Photography

Nate Gneiting

Garrett Kaufman

OFFENSE QB – Reese Dollins – Sr. RB – Tearris Wallace – Sr. WR – Trey Perkins - Sr. WR – Kaleb Haney - Sr. TE – Chase Morse – Jr. TE – Jack Kraus - Jr. C – Zach Brunetti - Jr. T – Trevor Foster - Sr. T – Aaron Risenhoover - Sr. G – Zach Cooper - Sr. G – Zach McBride - Sr.

Tearris Wallace

Reese Dollins

DEFENSE NG – Justin Fair - Sr. DE – Nick Fernandez - Jr. DE – Jared Conover - Jr. ILB – John Donald - Sr. OLB – Clay Wallace - Jr. OLB – Jimmy Short - Sr. ILB – Garrett Kaufman - Sr. CB – Chris Mizelle - Sr. CB – Gavin Shadrick - Sr. S – Austin Haggard - Sr. S – Nate Gneiting - Sr.

Starting Lineup

Trevor Foster

Trey Perkins

Jack Kraus

Nick Fernandez

2012 Schedule Date 8/31 9/7 9/14 9/21 9/28 10/5 10/12 10/19 10/26 11/2

Opponent KC Rockhurst, MO Broken Arrow, OK South Panola, MS Springdale Har-Ber Siloam Springs Rogers Rogers Heritage Van Buren Springdale Fayetteville

Place Home Away Home Away Home Away Home Away Away Home

Time 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm

suit early on,” Lunney says. “They will have to play well to allow some time for our offense to mature.”

Seniors Garrett Kaufman (6’2, 220 lbs) and Nate Gneiting (6’3, 185 lbs) lead the Tigers defense from the linebacker and safety positions respectively. Senior nose tackle Justin Fair (6’1, 255 lbs), as well as junior ends Jared Conover (6’1, 270 lbs) and Nick Fernandez (6’2, 215 lbs), anchor the defensive line.

At linebacker, senior Jimmy Short (6’1, 160 lbs) and junior Clay Wallace (5’11, 165 lbs) start at the outside linebacker position, while senior John Donald (5’11, 195 lbs) plays alongside Kaufman at the inside linebacker spot. Seniors Chris Mizelle (5’10, 160 lbs) and Gavin Shadrick (6’1, 185 lbs) start at corner, and senior safety Austin Haggard (5’10, 165 lbs) prowls at safety.

Lunney praises his team’s work ethic in the offseason. “We’re having a very good offseason,” he says. “The attitude seems to be very good.”

Bentonville’s non-conference schedule will challenge the Tigers early in the season, as they play three out-of-state teams in as many weeks, including K.C. Rockhurst, Borken Arrow, and South Panola. They face Fayetteville in the highly-anticipated state title rematch in week ten at home.

The Tigers host their first home game in week one on August 31st, when they host K.C. Rockhurst at Tiger Stadium. Kickoff is at 7:30 p.m.

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Berryville

BOBCATS Refocusing

Berryville Bobcats Conference: 4A-1 Head Coach: Eric Daniel Years as Head Coach at school: 3 Record at School: 2-18 Athletic Director: Owen Powell Football Staff: Kevin Lea – Defensive Coord/RB/CB Don Ernest – OL/LB Cody Alexander – QB/Safeties Eric Henderson – OL/Safeties Blake Godwin – WR/LB Austin Winters – DL/WR 2011 Overall Record/ 2011 Conference Record: 0-10/0-7 Varsity Players: 43 Returning Lettermen: 21 Returning Offensive Starters: 8 Returning Defensive Starters: 5 Offensive System: Split Back Defensive System: 4-3

OFFENSE

The defining moment in Berryville’s 2011 season came in week two against Huntsville, and it didn’t bode well for the then 0-1 Bobcats. Within two quarters, the Bobcats lost their starting quarterback, as well as their first and second-string running backs, to season-ending injuries. This forced them to start sophomores in crucial skill positions last season, and the result was an 0-10 season that saw Berryville struggle both offensively and defensively.

“We played junior varsity every Friday night, basically. We started somewhere between seven and nine sophomores on both sides of the ball,” head coach Eric Daniel says.

“And we play in one of the toughest, if not the toughest, conference in the state, for 4A especially. So it was a very good learning experience for those young kids.”

Berryville enjoys depth at the wide receiver position in 2012, with five junior wide receivers vying for playing time. Selvin Reyes is a member of Berryville’s wrestling team and brings a similar physicality football. Kollyn Scitern caught a pass for 18 yards against Farmington in week six. Alec Jones, Brett Sooter, and Avery Logan will all see chances to make plays in the fall.

Senior Wesley Waugh starts at tight end.

Daniel is refocusing his team in 2012 with his eyes set on the playoffs. “We need to win some tight games to gain some confidence,” Daniel continues. “We need to find a way to win. We need to cut down on turnovers, make plays in big situations, and stay healthy.”

Senior left tackle Edgar Camarillo anchors Berryville’s offensive line. Camarillo is a three-year starter. Senior Drew Howerton returns to start at left guard, alongside returning senior center Ross Morton and junior right guard Justus Summers.

Fernando Rameriz and Hunter Rivett, both sophomores, compete for the starting job Berryville returns eight offensive starters at right tackle. from last year’s squad, most notably junior Cody Powell, who leads the Bobcats Junior Blake McCullough and senior at quarterback. He started eight games Wesley Waugh anchor the defensive line last year, filling the spot left by injured as tackles, with sophomore duo Dylan quarterback Daulton Lynn. “Daulton stays Gardner and Tate Ferguson rushing the composed and throws the ball well,” Daniel quarterback from the end spots. says.

Forest Usrey leads the defense from the Senior runningback Forest Usrey provides linebacker position, alongside junior Jerry a spark for the Bobcats’ offense. He was Valdez and sophomore Kraig Kendrick.

2012 Schedule

DEFENSE

QB – Cody Powell - Jr. DT – Blake McCullough - Jr. RB – Forest Usrey - Sr. DT – Wesley Waugh - Sr. RB – Ethan Chapin - Jr. DE – Dylan Gardner - So. Slot – Evan Youngblood - Jr. WR – Selvin Reyes -Jr. DE – Tate Ferguson - So. WR – Brett Sooter - Jr. LB – Forest Usrey - Sr. WR – Avery Logan - Jr. LB – Jerry Valdez - Jr. WR – Alec Jones - Jr. LB – Kraig Kendrick - So. WR – Kollyn Scitern - Jr. TE – Wesley Waugh - Sr. CB – Selvin Reyes - Jr. LT – Edgar Camarillo - Sr. CB – Deonte Payton - So. LG – Drew Howerton - Sr. S – Alec Jones - Jr. C – Ross Morton - Sr. S – Ethan Chapin - Jr. RG – Justus Summers - Jr. RT – Fernando Rameriz - So. RT –Hunter Rivett - So.

Starting Lineup Pg. 20 • AR Sports NWA Football Preview 2012

the workhorse in the first two games of 2012 before his season-ending collarbone injury. Junior Ethan Chapin joins him in the backfield after a successful season in Usrey’s stead, rushing for over 600 yards last year with four touchdowns. Explosive sophomore Dillon Hughes could also see playing time after a very successful junior high season.

Date 8/31 9/7 9/14 9/21 9/28 10/5 10/12 10/19 10/26 11/2

Opponent Marshall Huntsville Green Forest Lincoln Ozark Farmington Prairie Grove Gentry Gravette Pea Ridge

Place Home Home Away Home Home Away Away Home Away Home

Time 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm

AR Sports NWA Football Preview 2012 • Pg. 21

Decatur

BULLDOGS A Learning Experience

Head coach Shane Holland considered 2011 a learning experience. Even as the Bulldogs struggled with a new system implemented by the first-year head coach, they managed to play competitively throughout the year, even though they finished the season with only one win to show for it.

Decatur Bulldogs Conference: 2A-4 Head Coach: Shane Holland Years as Head Coach at school: 1 Record at School: 1-9 Athletic Director: John Unger Football Staff: John Unger - WR and DB Davey Yates - OL and DL 2011 Overall Record/ 2011 Conference Record: 1-9/1-7 Varsity Players: 22 Returning Lettermen: 12 Returning Offensive Starters: 7 Returning Defensive Starters: 6 Offensive System: Spread Defensive System: 4-2

Most of Decatur’s players play on both sides of the ball. The same five seniors anchoring the offensive line lead on the “We were coming into the season with a new defensive line also. Linebackers Victor coach and a new system to learn,” Holland Urquidi and Andrew Harris recorded a says. “We were very inexperienced in combined for 45 tackles last season. Clay several key positions. We are approaching Norman and Allen Castaneda bolster the this season with much more experience, and linebacking group. we have a better feeling about it. We feel like we improved as the season progressed Evan Owens and Nou Thor led the and hope to build on that this season.” secondary with a combined 85 tackles last fall. Mario Urquidi, Terry Kell, and Tony Offensively, Holland feels that his players Mendoza bolster a secondary that Holland understand the system much better going cites as a strength of his defense. into the fall. The Bulldogs’ strength on offense is the improvement of their skill positions Holland sees his team’s athleticism as over the last year. Senior Evan Owens sees a major strength of his team. However, playing time at both the quarterback and he must build confidence in his team to wide receiver positions after passing for be successful in the 2012 season. “After 400 yards and six touchdowns last season. having gone several years without Sophomore Victor Urquidi shares snaps at a winning season, the biggest quarterback and sees carries at the running challenge will be to believe that we back position as well. Senior Clay Norman can be a winner,” Holland says. and sophomore Allen Castandea also see “We must be willing to make playing time at running back. the commitments necessary to do that.”

Senior Nou Thor, as well as sophomores Mario Urquidi, Terry Kell, and Tony Mendoza Holland sees weeks three comprise the wide receiving corps. Thour and four as pivotal games led the team in receiving last year with 177 in the season, as they play yards and two touchdowns. Kell caught a conference frontrunners touchdown pass against Johnson County Mountainburg and Westside, and Mendoza caught a 20-yard Hackett in touchdown pass in Decatur’s win over back to Hartford last fall. Senior Andrew Harris starts at tight end.

The Bulldogs’ offensive line is comprised of

Pg. 22 • AR Sports NWA Football Preview 2012

five seniors, but Holland still sees plenty of room for improvement. Dalton Ward, Logen Jamison, Avery Clay, Elijah McIver, and Rigo Lara all start on the offensive line.

OFFENSE

DEFENSE

2012 Schedule

QB/WR – Evan Owens - Sr. DL – Dalton Ward - Sr. Date QB/RB – Victor Urquidi - So. DL – Logen Jamison - Sr. RB – Clay Norman - Sr. DL – Avery Clay - Sr. 8/31 RB – Allen Castaneda - So. DL – Elijah McIver - Sr. TE – Andrew Harris - Sr. DL – Rigo Lara - Sr. 9/7 WR – Nou Thor - Sr. LB – Victor Urquidi - So. 9/14 WR – Mario Urquidi - So. LB – Clay Norman - Sr. WR – Tony Mendoza - So. LB – Andrew Harris - Sr. 9/21 WR – Terry Kell - So. LB – Allen Castaneda - So. 9/28 OL – Dalton Ward - Sr. DB – Evan Owens - Sr. OL – Logen Jamison - Sr. DB – Nou Thor - Sr. 10/5 OL – Avery Clay - Sr. DB – Tony Mendoza - So. 10/12 OL – Elijah McIver - Sr. DB – Mario Urquidi - So. OL – Rigo Lara - Sr. DB – Terry Kell - So. 10/19

Starting Lineup

Opponent Subiaco Academy Hartford Mountainburg Hackett JC Westside McDonald Co., MO Western Yell County Hector 10/26 Union Christian Academy 11/2 Magazine

Place Away Away Away Away Home Home Home Away Home Home

Time 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm

back weeks. They also open the season with a four-game road stretch that will set the tone for their season early on.

Decatur’s first home game is in week five, on September 28th, when they play host to Johnson County Westside.

Kickoff is at 7 p.m.

AR Sports NWA Football Preview 2012 • Pg. 23

Elkins

ELKS Returning Stronger

Elkins Elks Conference: 3A-1 Head Coach: Aaron Clark Years as Head Coach at school: 11 Record at School: 61-63-1 Overall Record as HC: 61-63-1 Athletic Director: Aaron Clark Football Staff: Thurman Shaw – Off. Coord./OL/ Secondary Justen Taggard – WR/LB 2011 Overall Record/ 2011 Conference Record: 5-5/3-4 Varsity Players: 33 Returning Lettermen: 21 Returning Offensive Starters: 6 Returning Defensive Starters: 6 Offensive System: Spread Defensive System: 4-3

The Elkins Elks started off the 2011 season strong, winning four of their first six games heading into their matchup with eventual conference champion Yellville-Summit. But their season took a drastic turn after the Panthers trounced the Elks 28-0, a loss that catalyzed a three-game losing streak.

After beating Green Forest, they ended the season 5-5.

tackle, respectively. Senior Noah Boyd snaps the ball at center, while junior guard Kiefer Ramsey brings experience to the line as a returning starter.

The Elks return six starters to a defense that gave up an average of 20 points per game last season. Senior noseguard Zeke Maurice and defensive tackle Dakota Drummond combined for 115 total tackles Injuries and inexperience contributed to last year.

Elkins’ late-season struggles. “Injuries hurt us midway through the season,” head coach Elkins’ linebacking core is led by senior Aaron Clark says. “We had to have several Tyler Casebolt, who led the team in tackles young players step up.” a year ago. Junior Dakota Keys flocks to the ball. Trent Bulla and Nick Harris start Clark seeks to build on last season with a at outside linebacker, while Cody Downum team returning a majority of their starters. leads the secondary at cornerback after Senior Mitchell Clark (6’1, 185 lbs) brings snagging five interceptions in 2011. size to the quarterback position. Junior halfback Trent Bulla joins him in the Elkins’ biggest test comes in week four, backfield, an explosive player who the Elks when they play their conference opener will rely on to make plays this fall. He rushed against Yellville-Summit. Their first home six times for 33 yards and a touchdown in game is in week two on September 7th, last year’s 50-7 win over Lavaca. Strong when they play host to the Lavaca Golden senior Michael Ketcher returns at tailback Arrows at John Bunch Jr. Memorial Field. after rushing for 500 yards and three Kickoff is at 7 p.m. touchdowns last season.

Senior Nick Harris saw duties as a back and receiver last season and starts at slot receiver this fall. Senior Cody Downum returns after being Elkins’ number one receiver last season, catching 29 passes for 584 yards and eight touchdowns. Junior duo Blaze Ice and Triston Ice round off the receiving corps.

On the line, junior Austin Araujo and senior Dakota Drummond block at right and left

2012 Schedule Date 8/31 9/7 9/14 9/21 9/28 10/5 10/12 10/19 10/26 11/2 Pg. 24 • AR Sports NWA Football Preview 2012

Opponent Pea Ridge Lavaca Huntsville Yellville-Summit Mountain View Marshall Melbourne West Fork Greenland Green Forest

Place Away Home Home Home Away Home Away Home Away Away

Time 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm

Farmington

CARDINALS Finding The Balance The Farmington Cardinals recorded an impressive 11-3 record in a 2011 season which included a deep playoff run carrying them into the state semifinals, where they lost to Malvern 49-25.

This year, however, the Cardinals have to make a run at the state title after graduating several key players. “Last year we really had a great group of seniors,” head coach Mike Adams says.

“Hopefully getting four extra weeks of practice at the end of last year will help this year, because we are going to be very inexperienced, particularly on defense.”

Adams remains excited about his team’s potential, especially on the offensive line. “For the first time since I’ve been here, we really have a chance to have an offensive line with good size,” Adams says. Tackle Zach Nickell and guard Jeremy Alexander return crucial experience to the line, and guard Michael Ryan, who saw plenty of playing time in 2011, sees a starting role this fall.

Seniors Brennan Warren and Colton Wilbanks project as starting linemen.

The key for the Cardinal offense is filling the starting quarterback role left by graduating senior Deon Clay. John Larabee and Keaton Austin compete for the starting job, but Adams expects both of them to see playing time.

The backfield consists of all-conference running back Spencer Boudrey and fullback Javier Claudio. Senior all-conference wide receiver Matt Brackett finds success through soft hands and a high vertical. Sophomore Michael Ingram projects as a receiver. Junior Cory Henry starts at tight end.

The coach sees linebacker Chase Garner and lineman Brennan Warren as both having allconference potential, but the Cardinals have to find help from the other positions quickly.

Thomas Clay is going into his junior year and has the potential to be a dominant lineman if he can improve his conditioning. Michael Lusher is a speedy linebacker who is expected to play in 2012. Senior Kyle Murray helps at linebacker also.

Michael Ingram, Josh Blew, Zac Yokum, Chas Turner, and Cody Larrow are all newcomers that have a chance to play in 2012.

The seasoned secondary consists of three seniors. Seniors Matt Brackett, Spencey Boudrey, and Dalton Strange are athletic defensive backs, in addition to junior John Larabee.

Both Ozark and Prairie Grover are expected to be legitimate top teams statewide, so the Cardinals’ conference race should look tough for 2012. But Coach Adams is counting on carrying on the momentum from the end of last season. “Beating Shiloh Christian in the last regular season game last year was huge for us, and hopefully we can carry it into this year,” Adams says.

The Farmington Cardinals’ first home game is in week one on August 31st, when they play host to the West Fork Tigers at Allen Holland Field.

Kickoff is at 7:00 PM.

Farmington Cardinals Conference: 4A-1 Head Coach: Mike Adams Years as Head Coach at school: 9 Record at School: 62-39 Athletic Director: Brad Blew Football Staff: Tracey Sutton – WR Jay Harper – LB/DC Steve Morgan DB Clint Scrivner – RB Spencer Adams – OL/DL 2011 Overall Record/ 2011 Conference Record: 11-3/5-2 Varsity Players: 60 Returning Lettermen: 40 Returning Offensive Starters: 4 Returning Defensive Starters: 2 Offensive System: Pro I Defensive System: 4-3

Defensively the Cardinals are going to have to fill many holes left by the 2011 graduating class.

They return just two starters to that side of the ball. “We’re going to replace our entire secondary, two linebackers, and three defensive linemen,” Adams says.

Photos by Carol Bundsgaard

2012 Schedule Date 8/31 9/7 9/14 9/21 9/28 10/5 10/12 10/19 10/26 11/2

Opponent Huntsville West Fork Paris Gentry Prairie Grove Berryville Gravette Ozark Pea Ridge Lincoln

Place Away Home Home Away Away Home Home Away Home Away

Time 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm

Brennan Warren

Chase Garner

Michael Lusher

Spencer Boudrey

Javier Claudio

Michael Ryan

Jeremy Alexander

Zach Nickell

AR Sports NWA Football Preview 2012 • Pg. 25

Fayetteville

BULLDOGS Staying Hungry

Fayetteville Bulldogs Conference: 7A West Head Coach: Daryl Patton Years as Head Coach at school: 9 Record at School: 75-32-2 Athletic Director: Barry Gebhart Football Staff: Brian Early – Def. Coord Tim Miller – Special Team Coord Jeb Huckeba – Strength Coord Drew Yoakum – Assoc HC Trey Selmon – Soph Def. Coord Zak Clark – Off Coord Eric Arrington – Soph Off Coord Mark White – Technology Coord Wendell Harris – Conditioning Coord Daryl Anderson – Soph Head Coach 2011 Overall/Conference Record: 12-2 / 5-2 Varsity Players: 198 Returning Lettermen: 26 Returning Offensive Starters: 7 Returning Defensive Starters: 7 Offensive System: Multiple Defensive System: 4-2-5

Fayetteville had lost to Bentonville in 2010’s state title game, and Bulldog head coach Daryl Patton wasn’t about to let it happen again in the 2011 state championship rematch. Austin Allen had just found Reid Homes for a three-yard touchdown pass on fourth-and-goal. It was overtime, and Bentonville, the heavy favorite, led 28-27.

An extra point would tie the game, but Patton wasn’t playing to tie.

Patton seeks to retain his team’s drive to repeat a state championship in 2012. “We have to make sure we stay hungry for a title after winning it all last year,” he says.

“We just have to remind them both daily and weekly that the defending champ from 2011, the team that had the most returners and lofty rankings, didn’t win it all last year.

You have to work hard each day and earn it.”

The Bulldogs lined up for a two-point conversion. Quarterback Austin Allen took the snap and rolled to the right, before turning and throwing a lob pass to the back left corner of the end zone to Tyler Tuck.

Tuck caught the ball, and the Bulldogs were state champions.

Fayetteville looks to their roster’s depth for success in the 2012 season. “We have a lot of overall line depth and experience,” Patton says. “We’re also returning our starting quarterback, and we have a lot of team speed.”

Now, the Bulldogs have a target on their back in 2012, and Patton will attempt to reach the title game yet again. “2011 was an awesome season,” Patton says. “The kids played outstanding down the stretch. But it won’t prepare us for this season. Different kids, different years. Hopefully we will have great senior leadership again.”

Despite having lost several key players, Photos by Richey Miller

Austin Allen, the hero of Fayetteville’s state championship game, is the man Patton seeks to lead his offense come fall.

Allen lit up the scoreboards in the 2011 season, passing for over 4,000 yards and 46 touchdowns, including a 376-yard fourtouchdown performance against a stingy Bentonville defense in the title game. When asked about Allen’s weaknesses, Patton joked, “He doesn’t run a 4.4.”

Senior halfback Brice Gahagans join Allen in the backfield. Senior Austin Hubble snaps the ball at center, and guards Tacker Halloran and Jared Thurman, as well as tackles Chase Carney and Joseph Shelby, join him on the offensive line.

Senior

Photos by Richey Miller

Pg. 26 • AR Sports NWA Football Preview 2012

Alex Brignoni

Austin Allen

OFFENSE QB – Austin Allen - Sr. RB – Brice Gahagans - Sr. WR – Cole Harris - Sr. WR – Jorge Gonzalez – Sr. WR – Chad Holmes – Sr. LT – Chase Carney - Sr. LG – Jared Thurman - Sr. C – Austin Hubble - Sr. RG – Tacker Halloran -Sr. RT – Joseph Shelby - Jr.

Austin Hubble

Brice Gahagans

DE – Brandyn Young - Sr. DE – Taryll Henry - Sr. DT – Reese Fitchue - Sr DT – Giovanni Negrete - Sr. LB – Brooks Ellis - Sr. LB – Austin Berry – Sr. LB – Aaron Kildow – Jr. CB – Jake Hornibrook – Jr. FS – Alex Brignoni - Sr SS – Heath McCracken - Sr.

Heath McCracken

Giovanni Negrete

Jared Thurman

2012 Schedule

DEFENSE

Key Contributors Cole Harris is the Bulldogs’ number one receiver, but Patton is concerned about their depth at the wide receiver position.

Brooks Ellis

Date 8/30 9/7 9/14 9/21 9/28 10/5 10/12 10/19 10/26 11/2

Opponent Memphis Univ.

Jefferson City, MO Muskogee, OK Van Buren Springdale Rogers Heritage Rogers Siloam Springs Springdale Har-Ber Bentonville

Place Home Away Home Home Away Home Away Home Home Away

Time 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm

Photos by Richey Miller

D e f e n s i v e l y, Fayetteville’s strengths lie in their defensive line and linebackers. Their defensive line contains all seniors, including Reese Fitchue and Giovanni Negrete at defensive line, and Brandyn Young and Taryll Henry at the end positions. They provide key senior leadership for the Bulldog defense.

Senior Brooks Ellis starts at the linebacker position this fall. Senior free safety Alex Brignoni and strong safety Heath McCracken prowl in the secondary, looking to compensate for a cornerback position that is shallow in depth.

Fayetteville’s biggest tests come in weeks nine and ten, when they play Har-Ber and Bentonville in back-to-back contests. One of their two losses last year came to Har-Ber, who defeated them 45-24, and the game against Bentonville is a much-anticipated rematch of the state championship game.

Fayetteville’s first home game is on August 30th, in week one, when they play Memphis University School at Razorback Stadium. Kickoff is at 7:30 p.m.

AR Sports NWA Football Preview 2012 • Pg. 27

Gentry

PIONEERS The Chosen Few Last year the Gentry Pioneers went 1-9, and after losing a number of key players, the Pioneers have their work cut out for them this year. The Pioneers have characteristically low numbers in 2012, and head coach Brian Little depends on a chosen few experienced returners to help his program find success in 2012.

Gentry Pioneers Conference: 4A-1 Head Coach: Brian H. Little Years as Head Coach at school: 5 Record at School: 17-34 Athletic Director: Brian H. Little Football Staff: Daniel Ramsey – Defensive Coord.

Marty Edmiston – OL Beau Collins – OL/DL Blake Rhein – DB Mason Pinkley – DB/WR 2011 Overall Record/ 2011 Conference Record: 1-9/1-6 Varsity Players: 40 Returning Lettermen: 20 Returning Offensive Starters: 4 Returning Defensive Starters: 4 Offensive System: Multiple Defensive System: Multiple

On defense, the defensive line is led by sophomores Dalton Morris (5’9, 205 lbs) and Montana McFerron (5’7, 165 lbs), as well as junior Gabe Israel (5’10, 167 lbs).

Senior Elijah Ramsey (6’1, 163) leads the defense from the linebacker position. He recorded 40 tackles last season. “He’s a great leader,” Little says. Junior linebacker “We have very few experienced returners, Bobby Montes (5’8, 179 lbs) saw playing and we will rely heavily on their knowledge time last season. Junior Tucker Willett and experience,” Little says.

(5’11, 160 lbs) moves to linebacker from defensive back.

The Pioneers rely on junior wide receiver Jarod Cousins (6’0, 177 lbs) to provide In the secondary, Dustin Stoufflet and a spark for the spread offense. Cousins senior Tyler Easter (5’6, 140 lbs) start as caught 26 passes for 465 yards and six cornerbacks. Athletic do-it-all junior Jarod touchdowns in 2011. “He’s a really explosive Cousins ball hawks at safety. player,” Little says of Cousins. Senior Kolby Bryant (5’6, 121 lbs) also sees playing time Gentry’s first home game is in week four, at the receiver position. when they play host to the Farmington Cardinals at Pioneer Stadium. Kickoff is at Little hasn’t decided on a starter at 7 p.m. quarterback, but sophomores Dustin Stoufflet (5’11, 180 lbs) and Stone Faulkenberry (5’11, 145 lbs) are competing for playing time. Cousins has also practiced at quarterback in the spring.

In limited playing time last season, senior halfback Ajay Beach (5’8, 155 lbs) rushed for 123 yards on 40 carries, with one visit to the end zone. Little expects him to take over the starting duties in 2012.

Junior Dusty Haag (5’11, 182 lbs) plays at tight end. The line consists of sophomore tackle Zach Ellis (6’2, 270 lbs), senior guard Austin Cochran (6’0, 250 lbs), and junior guard Alec Nelson (6’0, 200 lbs).

Photos by Lifetouch

2012 Schedule

Jarod Cousins

Kolby Bryant

Elijah Ramsey

Bobby Montes

Pg. 28 • AR Sports NWA Football Preview 2012

Dusty Haag

Tucker Willett

Zach Ellis

Dalton Morris

Date 8/31 9/7 9/14 9/21 9/28 10/5 10/12 10/19 10/26 11/2

Opponent West Fork Charleston Heber Springs Farmington Gravette Pea Ridge Lincoln Berryville Prairie Grove Ozark

Place Away Away Away Home Away Home Home Away Away Home

Time 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm

AR Sports NWA Football Preview 2012 • Pg. 29

Gravette

LIONS New Challenges 2011 was a good year to be a Gravette Lion. Harrelson says.

Conference: 4A-1 Head Coach: Bill Harrelson Years as Head Coach at school: 6 Record at School: 51-20 Athletic Director: Norman Mitchell Football Staff: Duke Mobley – DC Kevin Cole – Special Teams/ DB Jake Knoedl – OL Seth Mckinzie - WR 2011 Overall Record/ 2011 Conference Record: 10-3/5-2 Varsity Players: 50 Returning Lettermen: 26 Returning Offensive Starters: 3 Returning Defensive Starters: 1 Offensive System: Spread Defensive System: 30

The Lions return just three offensive starters. Marcus Adams is going into his senior year as a three-year starter on the line, alongside fellow returning senior TJ Head coach Bill Harrelson doesn’t have Holt. Senior Gunner Fancher and junior much to build on from the 2011 season, Anthony Dozier bolster the line, and senior mostly because he only returns four starters C.D. Woodcock and sophomore Michael from last year’s team. It is be a new team with Olvera contribute on the line also. new personnel in 2012. “We were successful in 2011, but we are losing 26 seniors and we Senior Chase Brody and junior Tristen will be expecting a lot of young players to Kahanek compete for the starting step up and take a leadership role on and off quarterback job left by Clayton Alexander, who graduated.

Alexander the field in 2012,” Harrelson says.

But Harrelson is confident in his team’s work ethic. “The players have been working hard in the off season, and we expect to be competitive in the conference race,”

Photos courtesy of Brandy Jones

Pg. 30 • AR Sports NWA Football Preview 2012

On offense, everything starts with the offensive line. If the line is able to move defenders and create running lanes, then the offense is able to move the football. The Lions are proud of their offensive line and look for it to produce good things in 2012.

“Our best overall attribute this season will be our offensive line,” Harrelson says. “We have a lot of experience at that position, and they are quality kids.”

Photos courtesy of Brandy Jones

Gravette Lions

The team went 10-3 overall and 5-2 in conference play. They scorched through the first half of the season, winning the first six contests by an average of twenty points a game, including victories over Ozark and Pea Ridge. After hitting a difficult two-game stretch in which they lost back-to-back competitive matchups with Farmington and Shiloh Christian, Gentry won the remaining three regular-season games to enter the playoffs with an impressive 9-2 record.

After beating Warren in the first round, however, the Lions were ousted by Pine Bluff Dollarway 20-13 in the second round.

TJ Holt

Tristen Kahanek

OFFENSE

Peyton Rose

Cody Robinson

DEFENSE

QB – Chase Brody - Sr. DL – Ryan Bolduc - Jr. QB – Tristen Kahanek - Jr. DL – Braton Coffelt - Sr. RB – Cody Robinson - Jr. DL – Austin Kennedy - Jr. WR – Cedric Duarte - So. DL – Koletun Hamilton - Sr. WR – Peyton Rose - Sr. LB – Tyler Kerley - Jr. WR – Zach Deatherage - Sr. LB – Peyton Rose - Sr. WR – Shay Shimer - Jr. LB – Shay Shimer - Jr. OL – Marcus Adams - Sr. LB – Josh Lockhart - Jr. OL – TJ Holt - Sr. DB – Zach Deatherage - Sr. OL – C.D. Woodcock – Sr. DB – Aaron Means - Jr. OL – Michael Olvera – So. DB – Chase Brody - Sr. DB – Tristen Kahanek - Jr.

Starting Lineup

Ryan Bolduc

Tyler Kerley

Zach Deatherage

Anthony Dozier

2012 Schedule Date 8/31 9/7 9/14 9/21 9/28 10/5 10/12 10/19 10/26 11/2

Opponent Lamar Booneville Siloam Springs Pea Ridge Gentry Ozark Farmington Lincoln Berryville Prairie Grove

Place Home Away Home Away Home Away Away Home Home Away

Time 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm

passed for 2,300 yards and 21 touchdowns last fall. Both Brody and Kahanek are talented players, and Harrelson is excited about their potential in 2012. “Either one could run our offense,” the coach says. Junior running back Cody Robinson rushed for over 500 yards his sophomore year.

Junior defensive back Aaron Means recovered two fumbles last season. Zach Deatherage starts in the secondary also. Senior Chase Brody was a top tackler for the Lions last fall with 45 tackles. Tristen Kahanek played defensive back in 11 games for Gravette last season.

Senior Peyton Rose is the go-to receiver for Gravette, and Harrelson looks for him to lead the Lions offense in the fall. Senior Zach Deatherage played two games at wide receiver last season.

Junior Shay Shimer and sophomore Cedric Duarte inherit starting roles this fall.

The Lions’ first home game is against Lamar on August 31st at Lion Stadium. Kickoff is at 7:30 p.m.

Linebacker Peyton Rose recorded 43 tackles last season and returns as the sole returning starter for the Lions. Junior middle linebacker Tyler Kerley racked up five tackles against Berryville last year. Juniors Josh Lockhart and Shay Shimer round out the linebackers.

The untested defensive line consists of junior Ryan Bolduc, Koletun Hamilton, Austin Kennedy, and Braton Coffelt.

AR Sports NWA Football Preview 2012 • Pg. 31

Green Forest

TIGERS Building Confidence The Green Forest Tigers struggled without several key players they lost to injuries, and they finished the 2011 season with a 2-8 overall record and a 1-6 conference record.

Green Forest Tigers Conference: 3A-1 Head Coach: Jay Martin Years as Head Coach at school: 2 Record at School: 5-15 Athletic Director: Jay Martin Football Staff: Tony Coffey - DC Ryan Whetham - Asst. Coach Brandon Stone - Asst Coach 2011 Overall Record/ 2011 Conference Record: 2-8/1-6 Varsity Players: 36 Returning Lettermen: 20 Returning Offensive Starters: 9 Returning Defensive Starters: 9 Offensive System: Wishbone Defensive System: 50

Pg. 32 • AR Sports NWA Football Preview 2012

After only two wins in 2011, building confidence will be an integral part of success for the Tigers in the 2012 season. “We’ve had a couple down years, and rebuilding confidence will be important,” head coach Jay Martin says.

Green Forest returns nine offensive starters, including junior quarterback Treyton Anderson, who started ten games as a sophomore and who provides a dual threat option for the Tigers offense. “Later in the season, he really began to become a playmaker for us by running and passing,” Martin says.

Junior fullback Dalton Ewing “can have a huge impact for us because of his size and ability to run and block.” Martin also referenced two returning tight ends, senior Gustin Byers and junior Clayton Watson, who are crucial to Green Forest’s passing attack out of the Wishbone formation.

Senior right guard Quinton Humbard anchors the offensive line, alongside junior center Dalton Coffey, senior left guard Mario Breck, and senior left tackle Austin Sutton.

Junior Devin Taylor is expected to start at right tackle.

The starting halfback position is still fairly open, but Martin expects juniors Kevin Jimenez, Eric Perez, and Cody Delozier to all see playing time this season running the football.

Senior defensive end Gustin Byers, a three-year starter, plays both sides of the ball and leads the Tigers defense. Senior nose guard Zach Wingo starts alongside defensive tackles Austin Sutton and Hunter Ault. Dalton Ewing and Quinton Humbard are expected to start at linebacker.

The secondary still has some question marks, but Martin expects Clayton Watson, Kevin Jimenez, and Eric Perez to see playing time at the safety spots. Cody Delozier starts at cornerback.

The Tigers’ lack of speed is a focal point that Martin seeks to improve. “Speed is giving us trouble,” he says. “We need to get faster, and we need to get stronger. We also need to work on tackling better.”

Green Forest’s first home game is in week one, on August 31st, when they play host to Reeds Spring, a team out of Missouri.

Kickoff is at 7 p.m.

Greenland

PIRATES Hard Work The Greenland Pirates went 9-3 in 2012, their season ending at the hands of a quality Harding Academy football team in the second round of the playoffs. But Lee Larkan believes the Pirates could’ve gone much deeper in the playoffs. “We were a good team that underachieved,” Larkan says. “Hopefully we learned from those mistakes, and this year we’ll work a little harder.”

senior Brandon Hale clog the interior at noseguard.

Junior Gus Dennis leads the linebacking corps, and junior Paul Stufflebeam and senior Tyndale Sizmore are expected to start alongside him. In the secondary, junior Blake Fortner, Blade Snider, and Evan Johnson are expected to play cornerback, with Darian Froud starting at strong safety.

Skill positions are the strength of this Pirates The Pirates rely on senior quarterback football team. “Our best overall attribute Darian Froud to be the sparkplug for for the 2012 season will be our size and Greenland’s offense in the fall. Froud started our skill,” Larkan says. “You always have for the Pirates in 2011 and accounted for a good chance when you have good skill over 2,500 yards of total offense. Senior players and a good returning quarterback.”

Evan Johnson returns as the Pirates’ go-to wide receiver and “should be able to give Larkan sees Greenland’s week five us a big-play threat,” Larkan says. Froud’s matchup against Yellville-Summit to be a other targets include senior split ends pivotal matchup for his team this season.

Thomas Slack and Brett Johnson. Senior The Panthers defeated Greenland 22-18 in Jordan Srita plays tight end. week ten last season, and the Pirates are looking for revenge this fall.

Junior Calvin Giddens returns as the Pirates’ running back after rushing for over The Pirates first home game is on 600 yards last season. Senior tackles Kellen September 7th in week two, when they Lee and Tylor McClanahan create the holes play host to Mansfield at Jonathan Ramey for Giddens on the offensive line, with the Stadium. Kickoff is at 7 p.m. help of senior guard Josh Fellers and junior guard Nathan Watkins, as well as senior Photos courtesy of West Fork QB Club center Seth Partain.

Greenland Pirates Conference: 3A-1 Head Coach: Lee Larkan Years as Head Coach at school: 7 Record at School: 55-25-1 Athletic Director: Lee Larkan Football Staff: Josh Holloway – DC Cody Napier – Special Teams 2011 Overall Record/ 2011 Conference Record: 9-3/5-3 Varsity Players: 35 Returning Lettermen: 18 Returning Offensive Starters: 4 Returning Defensive Starters: 6 Offensive System: Spread Defensive System: Eagle

Defensive tackle Jordan Srita leads a Pirates defensive line which includes fellow tackles Josh Fellers and Seth Partain, as well as defensive ends Kellen Lee and Tylor McClanahan. Lee had a productive offseason and returns as one of the Pirates’ biggest linemen. Nathan Watkins and

2012 Schedule Date 8/31 9/7 9/14 9/21 9/28 10/5 10/12 10/19 10/26 11/2

Opponent Magazine Mansfield Pea Ridge Melbourne Yellville-Summit Mt. View Marshall Green Forest Elkins West Fork

Place Away Home Home Home Home Away Home Away Home Away

Time 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm

Photos courtesy of West Fork QB Club

AR Sports NWA Football Preview 2012 • Pg. 33

Harrison

GOLDEN GOBLINS Team Unity In his first year as the Harrison Golden Goblins head coach, Chad Harbison took the first steps towards implementing his system. His team saw success in their first game, defeating Sheridan 28-10 to start the season 1-0. But they lost the next eight games by an average of 29 points, before finishing the year strong with a 33-6 win over Huntsville.

Harrison Goblins Conference: 5A West Head Coach: Chad Harbison Years as Head Coach at school: 1 Record at School: 2-8 Athletic Director: Chris Pratt/Chad Harbison Football Staff: Chuck Eddington – DC Dan Gilbert – Secondary Doug Cross – Safeties Kyle Mallett – DL Greg Cross – OL Alan King – RB Greg Crow – WR Devon Boswell – OL Evan Cowling – DB Charles Crowder – WR 2011 Overall Record/ 2011 Conference Record: 2-8/1-6 Varsity Players Expected for 2012: 70 Returning Lettermen: 19 Returning Offensive Starters: 6 Returning Defensive Starters: 4 Offensive System: Spread Defensive System: 3-4

“It was our first season after a coaching change,” head coach Chad Harbison says. “And it was a disappointing season.” But Harbison is optimistic for the 2012 campaign, now that he has had two years to implement his system. “Our players will have a better understanding of our systems and expectations this season,” he says. “We should be much improved.”

This year, Harbison attempts to refocus his team towards a successful season, and he begins that challenge by ensuring his team is focused on a common goal. “I think our biggest deal is making sure that we can overcome adversity, and that they understand that they can get it done,” Harbison says. “Our rallying cry this year is for team unity. We’re trying to get closer as a group, and come together as a football team as a group for a common goal.”

Harrison returns six offensive starters, most notably to skill positions and the offensive line. Senior Dalton Lovell is expected to see playing time at quarterback, but sophomore Brock Humphrey has had a good offseason and competes for snaps. Lovell was a do-it-all player last season, as he started at safety, but also played quarterback, running back, and wide receiver. “He’s just a very good football player,” Harbison says. “No matter where we put him, he’s going to be an impact player. He’s a very good competitor.”

Junior running back Michael Evert returns to lead the Goblin’s backfield after a solid sophomore campaign. “He’s had a really good offseason,” Harbison says. “He’s very focused, and has a real good understanding of the offense.”

Senior Logan Patton returns as Harrison’s leading receiver from last fall. He also saw playing time at safety during spring practices.

Junior Drew Matthews also sees playing time at wide receiver, and both bring a much-needed experience to the offense.

Senior Colton Spears starts as an inside wide receiver. “He’s one of those players we want to get the ball to several times a game,” Harbison says of Spears. “He’s a very good athlete.”

Harrison benefits the most from their offensive line, which returns three starters: junior left tackle Dustin Sims, junior right guard Mason Gentry, and senior right guard J.R. Payne. Junior center Tyler Harshberger and junior right tackle Levi Hall start at the other two spots on the line.

“We feel better about our offensive line going into this season,” Harbison says. “We feel like we have depth at the offensive line positions that we didn’t have last year.”

While Harbison sees several players as having improved radically during the offseason, he considers Mason Gentry the most improved player on the team. “He’s kind of emerged as one of our best offensive lineman,” he says. “He took his lumps last season. I’m really proud of how hard he’s worked this offseason and the improvements he’s made.”

Where Harrison benefits from experience on offense, however, they struggle with inexperience on defense.

They are replacing six of their front seven, with senior linebacker Nathan Eason being the only returning starter from that group.

However, Harbison has been impressed with several of the new starters, most notably junior linebacker Nick Flippo.

The Golden Goblins rely on an experienced

Photo by Chris Ramsey

Pg. 34 • AR Sports NWA Football Preview 2012

Dalton Lovell

Michael Evert

OFFENSE QB – Dalton Lovell – Sr. QB – Brock Humphrey – So. RB – Michael Evert – Jr. WR – Drew Matthews – Jr. WR – Colton Spears – Sr. WR – Logan Patton – Sr. LT – Dustin Sims – Jr. LG – Mason Gentry – Jr. C – Tyler Harshberger – Jr. RG – J.R. Payne – Sr. RT – Levi Hall – Jr.

Logan Patton

Dustin Sims

DEFENSE DL – Tristan Heaton – Sr. DL – Gary Martin – Sr. DE – Dustin Sims – Jr. DE – Mason Gentry – Jr. LB – Nick Flippo – Jr. LB – Nathan Eason – Sr. CB – Colby Boren – Sr. S – Justin Boyd – Sr. S – Colton Spears – Sr.

Starting Lineup

Mason Gentry

Gary Martin

Colton Spears

Nick Flippo

2012 Schedule Date 8/31 9/7 9/14 9/21 9/28 10/5 10/12 10/19 10/26 11/1

Opponent Ozark Mo. Mountain Home Rogers Heritage Vilonia Greenbrier Alma Shiloh Christian Clarksville Morrilton Huntsville

Place Home Home Away Away Home Away Home Away Home Away

Time 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm

secondary to lead the defense. They return three defensive backs, including senior safeties Colton Spears and Justin Boyd, as well as senior cornerback Colby Boren. “Colby is a smart, intelligent player,” Harbison says. “He’s always in position. He does a good job for us.”

Senior defensive lineman Tristan Heaton had a good spring and plugs the middle for the Golden Goblins’ defensive line. Senior Gary Martin starts on the line as well, and juniors Dustin Sims and Mason Gentry rush the quarterback at defensive end.

Harbison feels their week one game against Ozark is their most important. He seeks to open the season the same as he did last year, but continue their winning ways into the conference schedule and playoffs. “We must play well and gain some confidence early,” Harbison says.

Harrison’s first home game is on August 31st in week one, when they host Ozark Mo. At F.S. Garrison Stadium. Kickoff is at 7:00 p.m.

AR Sports NWA Football Preview 2012 • Pg. 35

Huntsville

EAGLES Growing Pains The Eagles were young and struggled with anchors the line, with junior left guard Will growing pains last year and ended the Anderson starting beside him. season with a disappointing 1-9 record. “It was a tough and disappointing season,” coach Tommy Tice says. “But what doesn’t kill you should make you tougher.”

Huntsville returns eight starters on offense, including senior quarterback Mason Kositske. “Mason has a strong arm and is accurate, but he needs to make better decisions throwing the ball,” Tice says.

Huntsville Eagles Conference: 5A West Head Coach: Tommy Tice Years as Head Coach at school: 9 Record at School: 59-35 Athletic Director: Ken Harriman Football Staff: Matt Williams – DC – Linebackers Ed Baker – Defensive Backs Tommy McCollough – Running Backs Zack Wiggins – OC – Quarterbacks Brian Garrett – Offensive Line Greg Sone – Wide Receivers T.W. Dotson – Defensive Line 2011 Overall Record/ 2011 Conference Record: 1-9/0-7 Varsity Players Expected for 2012: 50 Returning Lettermen: 25 Returning Offensive Starters: 8 Returning Defensive Starters: 10 Offensive System: Wing T/Spread Defensive System: 3-4

Photos by Christi Sone

Photos by Christi Sone

Huntsville is even more experienced on defense, where they return ten starters.

Fernandez plays both sides of the ball, as he is also starting at the nose guard position. Junior Will Anderson and senior Jim Carter start at the end spots. Seniors Clayton Whelchel and Chad McCone start as outside linebackers in Huntsville’s 3-4 offense, with junior Justin McQuiston and McCollough joining them at inside linebacker.

Senior tailback Taylor Phillips joins him in the backfield. “Taylor is a hard worker and very strong, but he needs to finish off his runs and improve his vision,” Tice says.

In the secondary, senior Mac Adkins starts at cornerback, with Brandon McRae at strong safety and senior Justin Myers playing free safety.

Senior tight end Logan McCollough is an integral part of Huntsville’s offense.

Senior wingback Brandon McRae uses his versatility to be a playmaker for the Eagles. Senior Robert Fernandez starts at the fullback position, rounding off a squad of backs and ends that are the strength of Huntsville’s Wing-T offense.

Although Huntsville returns eighteen starters, Tice is concerned about their lack of depth. He is confident, however, that they will improve because of their work ethic.

“These are hard-working young men that never complain,” Tice says. “They come to work every day with a great attitude.”

Huntsville’s first home game is in week one, The Eagles struggle with an inexperienced on August 31st, when they host Farmington offensive line. Senior left tackle River Davis at Eagle Stadium. Kickoff is at 7:00 p.m.

2012 Schedule

Chad McCone

Justin Meyers

Logan McCollough

Clayton Whelchel

Taylor Phillips

Headshots by Julie Gleghorn

Brandon McRae

Pg. 36 • AR Sports NWA Football Preview 2012

Mason Kositske

River Davis

Date 8/31 9/7 9/14 9/21 9/28 10/5 10/12 10/19 10/26 11/2

Opponent Farmington Berryville Elkins Greenbrier Clarksville Shiloh Christian Alma Morrilton Vilonia Harrison

Place Home Away Away Away Home Away Home Away Home Home

Time 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm

Lincoln

WOLVES Clayton Whelchel

Dylan Sizemore

Mac Adkins

Max Guitierez

Hard Work

“Hard work beats talent.” The Lincoln Wolves proved this statement true last season. The young team won seven games last season, tying a school record for wins in a season, and made the playoffs for just the second time in the school’s history.

“We got a couple wins early in the season, and the guys felt like they were ten-foot tall and bulletproof,” head coach Brad Harris says. “Their confidence just kept getting better and better.”

Logan McCollough

Justin Meyers

Robert Fernandez

lbs) compete for the quarterback spot after leading their junior high teams to successful seasons.

The Wolves return eight starters on defense. Noseguard Jace Newby (5’9, 225 lbs) oftentimes requires double teams from opposing linemen because of his strength.

Brandon Cruz (5’10, 210 lbs) starts at defensive end after a solid offseason.

Harris says junior linebacker Colton Barnum (6’0, 200 lbs) has all-state potential The Wolves return four of their five offensive after finishing the 2012 season with 98 lineman in the fall. Senior left guard Dustin tackles. Senior weakside linebacker Kyle Hanson (5’9, 220 lbs) bench presses Hamby (5’8, 165 lbs) recorded 82 tackles 380 pounds and squats 445. Senior Ivan last year. Junior Timmy Alexander (5’8, 185 Cardinez (5’8, 210 lbs) starts at right tackle lbs) is the top returning tackler for Lincoln’s after a solid offseason. Senior right guard defense, recording 96 tackles last year.

Austin Lewallen (6’0, 200 lbs) started all 11 games last year. Junior center Ryan Lincoln’s outside linebacker Johnny Yang Raible (6’0, 180 lbs) enjoyed a breakout (5’6, 160 lbs) is small, but his size is sophomore season. deceiving. “When people watch him on film, they say, ‘we’re gonna run at that little guy,’” All-conference junior Tyler Cummings Harris says. “But he may be the toughest (6’0, 165 lbs) returns to lead the offense at kid we got on our team.” Tyler Cummings is tailback after rushing for 1,485 yards and 20 a safety/linebacker hybrid. touchdowns. Senior fullback Nou Long Thao (5’8, 185 lbs) tore his ACL in his junior year Cornerback Danny Calvillo is one of the and missed most of the season, but rushed fastest players in the secondary. Dalton for over 500 yards his sophomore year as Simmons moves to free safety from the a tailback. corner position.

Harris considers slot receiver Dalton Simmons (5’8, 160 lbs) one of their most volatile players. “He’s got great hands,” Harris says. “He’s five-eight, but he plays like a six-foot receiver.” After graduating both outside receivers, senior Jacob Hernandez and juniors Pat Haines and Danny Calvillo compete for playing time.

River Davis

Lincoln’s first home game is in week one on August 31st, when they play host to Westville at Wolves Stadium. Kickoff is at 7 p.m.

Lincoln Wolves Conference: 4A-1 Head Coach: Brad Harris Years as Head Coach at school: 4 Record at School: 10-31 Athletic Director: Deon Johns Football Staff: Jim Meyers – DC/RB/ILB Justin Bounds –WR/DB Garrett Hammons – OL/DL 2011 Overall Record/ 2011 Conference Record: 7-4/4-3 Varsity Players Expected for 2012: 45 Returning Lettermen: 24 Returning Offensive Starters: 7 Returning Defensive Starters: 8 Offensive System: Spread Defensive System: 30 Stack

Both sophomore Drew Harris (5’10, 155 lbs) and junior Dakota Riggin (5’10, 165

2012 Schedule Date 8/31 9/7 9/14 9/21 9/28 10/5 10/12 10/19 10/26 11/2

Opponent Westville Stilwell Dover Berryville Pea Ridge Prairie Grove Gentry Gravette Ozark Farmington

Place Home Away Home Away Home Home Away Away Away Home

Time 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm

Photo By Lincoln AR Sports

Photo By Self Photography AR Sports NWA Football Preview 2012 • Pg. 37

Mountain Home

BOMBERS Battle Tested The Mountain Home Bombers started off strong last season, winning their first three games, including a 34-12 victory against Nettleton and a 37-0 rout of Harrison. But they dropped four of their next five games, and limped into the playoffs with a 5-5 record, where they were drummed by Texarkana 41-0.

Mountain Home Bombers Conference: 7A East Head Coach: Benji Mahan Years as Head Coach at school: 2 Record at School: 6-15 Athletic Director: Janet Wood Football Staff: Kyle McCarn –Defensive Coordinator/ Linebackers Jim Tejcek –Offensive Line Carl Owens – Defensive Backs Philip Goodwin – Defensive Line Lee Sadler – Special Teams/ Wide Rec. 2011 Overall Record/ 2011 Conference Record: 5-6/2-5 Varsity Players Expected for 2012: 82 Returning Lettermen: 14 Returning Offensive Starters: 6 Returning Defensive Starters: 7 Offensive System: One Back Defensive System: 4-3

“We had a great start to our season by going 3-0 in our non-conference schedule,” head coach Benji Mahan says. “We went through our conference and had some close games which made us battle tested going into the playoffs. But we didn’t play very well against Texarkana and finished on a sour note.”

Coach Mahan focused the Bombers’ offseason on one area: competing. “The whole theme of offseason is to compete,” he says. “And we’re going to compete whether we’re playing the Green Bay Packers or we’re in the weight room.

We’re going to compete in the classroom as well.

That’s a part of life.”

The Bombers seek to build on their results from last season, with an offense that returns six starters. “We have some players on offense that really understand our system,” Mahan says.

Junior quarterback Drake Walker leads Mountain Home’s One Back offense, coming off a solid 2011 season in which he accounted for more than 2,000 all-purpose yards. “Drake had a wonderful sophomore season,” Mahan says. “And we are excited to see what he can do with another year in the system.”

Junior halfbacks Quinten Parker and Matt House anchor the backfield for the Bombers.

Wideouts Hunter Thorpe and Alex Hagaman, both seniors, lead the receiving corps. “They have

Pg. 38 • AR Sports NWA Football Preview 2012

a great grasp of their roll on this team and are looking forward to executing that role,” Mahan says. Senior Clay Stewart runs crisp routes.

Junior Tom Lynch starts at tight end.

The Bombers’ offense is bolstered by a seasoned and talented offensive line. “Our offensive line is athletic, strong, and smart,” Mahan says. Senior right guard Vander Bowden leads the squad, alongside senior left guard Conner Brown and junior left tackle Dalton Reed. All three are returning starters. Junior center Kyle Stephens and sophomore tackle Dawson Henderson are first-year starters.

Mahan has high expectations for the Bombers defense, which returns seven starters including senior linebacker Cole Barrow, who anchors the linebacker corps. Junior Keeler Stapleton also starts at linebacker, as well as senior Brennan Watson.

Mahan cites experience in the secondary, where they return three of their four starters.

Junior Hayden Hall and senior Kevin Jefferson cover at cornerback, while senior Justin Linck provides key experience at the strong safety position.

Senior Dalton Rebsamen b r i n g s

Brennan Watson

Alex Hagaman

OFFENSE

Cole Barrow

Dalton Reed

Conner Brown

Starting Lineup

Drake Walker

Hunter Thorpe

2012 Schedule

DEFENSE

QB – Drake Walker - Jr. DE – Jared Britt - Sr. RB – Quinten Parker – Jr. DE – Kenzie Medley - Sr. RB – Matt House – Jr. DL – Kody Aldridge - Jr. WR – Hunter Thorpe - Sr. DL – Kedrin Rayburn - Jr. WR – Alex Hagaman - Sr. LB – Keeler Stapleton - Jr. WR – Clay Stewart - Sr. LB – Cole Barrow - Sr. TE – Tom Lynch - Jr. LB – Brennan Watson - Sr. LT – Dalton Reed - Jr. CB – Hayden Hall - Jr. LG – Conner Brown - Sr. CB – Kevin Jefferson - Sr. C – Kyle Stephens - Jr. FS – Dalton Rebsamen - Sr. RG – Vander Bowden - Sr. SS – Justin Linck - Sr. RT – Dawson Henderson - So.

Dalton Rebsamen

Date 8/31 9/7 9/14 9/21 9/28 10/5 10/12 10/19 10/26 11/1

Opponent Rogers Harrison LR Parkview Marion Searcy Cabot Jonesboro LR Central North Little Rock West Memphis

Place Home Away Home Away Home Away Home Away Home Away

Time 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm

experience to the free safety spot.

Senior defensive end Kenzie Medley leads a quick defensive line. “Our defensive ends are fast veterans,” Mahan says. “But we will need to find some guys to step up on the interior defensive line.”

Senior Jared Britt rushes the quarterback at the end spot opposite Medley, and juniors Kody Aldridge and Kedrin Rayburn clog the interior as defensive lineman.

Mahan cites intangibles as the strength of this 2012 Bombers team. “They have great attitudes, tremendous work ethic, and a knack for leadership,” he says.

The Bombers’ biggest challenge is their schedule this season. “Our schedule is pretty tough, especially the back end of it,” Mahan says. “When you trade Jacksonville, Little Rock Hall, and Parkview, for North Little Rock, Little Rock Central, Cabot, you’re going to have to face a tougher schedule. That’s nothing against the other teams, but we gained three 7A teams there.”

Mountain Home’s most pivotal game is in week four against Marion, which is their conference opener. They defeated Marion 36-13 last season on the road, and will play host to them this year in a game which will set the tone for their conference schedule.

“It just seems like every year for the last seven to eight years it’s been a pivotal game for us,” Mahan says. “It’s week one of our conference schedule, and we’re going to want to get out of the gate early in our conference and get in the driver’s seat. It’s always a shootout.”

Mountain Home’s first home game is on August 31st in week one, when they play host to Rogers at Bomber Stadium. Kickoff is at 7:30 p.m.

AR Sports NWA Football Preview 2012 • Pg. 39

Pea Ridge

BLACKHAWKS Building Momentum The Pea Ridge Blackhawks won four games last year, building on a one-win 2010 season. “We’re close to taking the next step and becoming a playoff team in our conference. We just need a big conference win to gain confidence,” Travis says. “But non-conference is vital to our development.”

passes for 124 yards and a touchdown last season. Senior Joey Brown also sees playing time. Senior tight end Garrett Morgan blocks well.

Pea Ridge’s seasoned offensive line opens holes for Winn. Five seniors start on the line, including Jayse Anderson and Blake Pea Ridge’s backfield consists of all Roughton, who start at left and right tackle returning seniors. Senior quarterback Austin respectively. Charlie Holliday and Zach Easterling is a good decision maker and Oldebeken work at left guard and right Conference: 4A-1 is very athletic. He’s also a leader whose guard. Zach Norris snaps the ball at center. toughness field Pea Ridge will need to win Head Coach: Tony Travis football games. “He was kinda thrown into Pea Ridge brings a similar experience to Years as Head Coach at school: 3 the fire at a young age but he never backed the other side of the ball, where they are led Record at School: 7-23 by senior inside linebacker Dalton Morgan away from the challenges,” Travis says. and outside linebacker Braxton Caudill, the Athletic Director: Senior Dayton Winn carries the load for the top two tacklers from the 2011 season.

Larry Walker Blackhawks at running back. Winn rushed Football Staff: for over 1,500 yards last season on nearly “We have a lot of experience coming back Lafe Caton – DC 6.5 yards per carry and 17 touchdowns. on defense this year,” Travis says. “I think Matt Easterling – SR High Assistant they will be the strong point of our club, Josh Reynolds – Head JR High Coach especially early.”

James Ortiz – JR High DC John King – JR High Assistant On the defensive line, returning starters Zach Oldebeken and Blake Roughton, both 2011 Overall Record/ seniors, play vital roles at the defensive 2011 Conference Record: 4-6/2-5 end spots. Tyler Handy and Zach Norris bring experience as defensive tackles.

Varsity Players Expected for 2012: 60 Seniors Dayton Winn and Daniel Beard Returning Lettermen: 23 start at cornerback, with Austin Easterling Returning Offensive Starters: 7 at free safety, two important pieces of a Returning Defensive Starters: 8 secondary which Travis seeks to develop Offensive System: Pro I Senior Braxton Caudill brings valuable further. “We must improve in the secondary, Defensive System: 4-2 especially on third down passes,” he says. experience to the fullback position.

Pea Ridge Blackhawks

The receivers includes returning senior Pea Ridge’s first home game is against Daniel Beard and junior Logan Rose. In Elkins in week one of the 2012 campaign limited playing time, Beard caught seven at Blackhawks Stadium. Kickoff is at 7 p.m.

2012 Schedule

Photos by Stephanie Harwell

Date 8/31 9/7 9/14 9/21 9/28 10/5 10/12 10/19 10/26 11/2 Pg. 40 • AR Sports NWA Football Preview 2012

Opponent Elkins Green Forest Greenland Gravette Lincoln Gentry Ozark Prairie Grove Farmington Berryville

Place Home Home Away Home Away Away Home Home Away Away

Time 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm

Prairie Grove

TIGERS Lighting Up The Scoreboards Mac Adkins

After a disappointing four-win season in 2010, the Prairie Grove Tigers bounced back in 2011 to an 8-4 record. “We stumbled at times,” head coach Danny Abshiers says.

“But it was a fun year that gives us a lot of experience for returning starters.”

Prairie Grove seeks to light up the scoreboards in 2012 with an offense starting 11 starters. Senior dual-threat quarterback Cooper Winters starts in a dangerous backfield that includes versatile senior halfback Weston Bartholomew as well as speedster halfbacks Logan Bartholomew and Colby Elkins. Add to that the hands of wide receiver John Halbert and senior wingback Noah Hunter, who Abshier utilizes as both a fullback and a receiver, and the Tigers’ have a truly explosive Wing-T offense on their hands.

“With teams h a v i n g to cover Halbert’s receiving ability, we should be somewhat hard to c o r r a l , ” Abshier says.

Anchoring the offensive line is senior tackle Jacob Lacey, who blocks beside senior guard Jacob Kahl and senior Spencer Gauldin. Luke Johnson blocks at guard, and

Logan McCollough

River Davis

Justin Meyers

Robert Fernandez

Creyton Ledbetter snaps the ball at center.

Returning senior tight end Jared Murphy has good hands.

On defense, seniors Creyton Ledbetter and Brandon Taylor make an impact as defensive ends. Jacob Lacey projects as a lineman. Jared Murphy’s blend of strength and athleticism makes him difficult for opposing lineman to block. Luke Johnson also sees playing time on the line.

The Tigers return a seasoned linebacking corps including all-state inside linebacker Jacob Kahl, as well as outside linebackers Noah Hunter and junior Nick Sugg. Brandon Nodier helps out as well. “Nodier and Sugg provide some added back-up strength,” Abshier says.

Prairie Grove Tigers Conference: 4A-1 Head Coach: Danny Abshier Years as Head Coach at school: 19

Prairie Grove’s secondary includes three starting seniors, all of which are returning starters from last season. Cooper Winters and John Halbert line up at the cornerback position. Dalton Faulk also works in the secondary. Colby Elkins returns to prowl at safety alongside junior Logan Bartholomew.

The Tigers host their first home game of the 2012 campaign in week three, when they play host to the West Fork Tigers on September 14th. Kickoff is at 7 p.m. at Tiger Stadium.

Athletic Director: Mike Green Football Staff: Craig Laird - DC John Elder - OC Max Washausen - Asst.

2011 Overall Record/ 2011 Conference Record: 8-4/7-3 Varsity Players Expected for 2012: 20 Returning Lettermen: 35 Returning Offensive Starters: 8 Returning Defensive Starters: 8 Offensive System: Wing-T Defensive System: Multiple

Photos by Shelley WIlliams

2012 Schedule Date 8/31 9/7 9/14 9/21 9/28 10/5 10/12 10/19 10/26 11/2

Opponent Lavaca Morrilton West Fork Ozark Farmington Lincoln Berryville Pea Ridge Gentry Gravette

Place Away Away Home Away Home Away Home Away Home Home

Time 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm

Brandon Taylor

Colby Elkins

Noah Hunter

Jacob Kahl

Cooper Winters

Jared Murphy

Creyton Ledbetter

Luke Johnson

AR Sports NWA Football Preview 2012 • Pg. 41

Rogers

MOUNTAINEERS Rebuilding Head coach Shawn Flannigan is midway through rebuilding a Rogers football team that six years ago won a conference title with a 12-1 record.

Since then, the Mountaineers have struggled, winning a total of just seven games in the last four seasons.

Rogers Mountaineers Conference: 7A West Head Coach: Shawn Flannigan Years as Head Coach at school: 2 Record at School: 2-18 Athletic Director: Mark Holderbaum Football Staff: Mike Bush – Asst. Head Coach/DL Cam Prock – OC/OL Charlie Hesse – DC/OLB Rob Bray – OL Alan Rettmann – Secondary Steve Hampton – RB Andrew O’Neil – ILB 2011 Overall Record/ 2011 Conference Record: 2-8/1-6 Varsity Players Expected for 2012: 91 Returning Lettermen: 28 Returning Offensive Starters: 7 Returning Defensive Starters: 8 Offensive System: Multiple Defensive System: 3-4

Pg. 42 • AR Sports NWA Football Preview 2012

The 2011 season saw improvements on an 0-10 2010 year, as Rogers defeated Neosho 24-12 in the season opener last year to start the season at 1-0. The season went downhill from there, however, as they won just one of their next nine games to end the season at 2-8.

Now, entering his third season as the Rogers head coach, Flannigan hopes to have fully implemented his system, and after a productive offseason, he feels that his team is much improved heading into 2012. “We are working hard to make improvements and get better,” he says. “Having a full year and gaining experience will hopefully transfer into more production and ultimately wins.”

Flannigan has set two simple goals for his team: to improve every week, and to compete with every team on their schedule. “We feel that if we can do that, we will win games,” he says.

Rogers returns seven starters on offense, and returns a majority of their skill players, most notably the two slotbacks Stokes Wenzler (5’11, 170 lbs) and Ty Galyean (5’10, 175 lbs), who provide versatility to the Mountaineers’ offense

with their ability to both run and catch. Galyean, a junior, rushed for 424 yards last season, with an average of 5.3 yards per carry, and scored three touchdowns. Wenzler, a senior, rushed for 315 yards in 2011 with 7.3 yards per carry.

Junior Max Harrell (5’11, 140 lbs) starts for the Mounties at quarterback this fall after claiming the starting job in the offseason. He played backup last year to senior Nick Wary (5’10, 200 lbs) who shifts to fullback. The speed Wary will see plenty of runs out of Rogers’ Wishbone sets.

After playing in a run-dominated offense that averaged 40 carries per game last season, senior Zach Jones (6’3, 200 lbs) looks to be a go-to receiver for the Mounties this fall. Jones had a productive offseason, and looks to be an impact wide receiver for Rogers this fall.

Senior wide receiver Trevor Hampton is another primary target. At 6’5, 234 lbs, Hampton is built like a tight end, and should provide matchup problems for opposing defenses. He caught ten passes for 228 yards last season and one touchdown.

Senior Grant Holman, as well as juniors Bryce Bray (5’11, 240 lbs) and Austin Hughes (6’5, 242 lbs), should see playing time on the offensive line.

Flannigan expects speed to be his offense’s strong suit going into the fall. “We should have better offensive speed this year and we will be in the second year of our offense,” he says.

“We will be smaller on the line this year, but we should be quicker.”

The Mountaineer’s defense returns eight starters, but they lost several key players in their secondary. “We return a lot of players with experience, both starting and playing,” Flannigan says. “But we lost some very good players in the secondary that will be

Trevor Hampton

Edwin Santos

OFFENSE QB – Max Harrell – Jr. SB – Stokes Wenzler – Sr. SB – Ty Galyean – Jr. FB – Nick Wary – Sr. WR – Trevor Hampton – Sr. WR – Zach Jones – Sr. C – Bryce Bray - Jr. OL – Austin Hughes - Jr. OL – Grant Holman - Sr.

Stokes Wenzler

Hunter Smith

DEFENSE DT – Hunter Smith – Sr. DT – Edwin Santos – Sr. OLB – Zack Wary – Jr. LB – Jordan Wiggins - Sr. DB – Chase Lamers - Sr. SS – Joe Adams – Sr.

Key Contributors

Joe Adams

Ty Galyean

Nick Wary

Zach Jones

2012 Schedule Date Opponent 8/31 Mountain Home 9/7 Tahlequah, OK 9/14 Fort Smith Northside 9/21 Springdale 9/28 Van Buren 10/5 Bentonville 10/12 Fayetteville 10/19 Springdale Har-Ber 10/26 Siloam Springs 11/2 Rogers Heritage

Place Away Home Away Home Away Home Home Away Home Away

Time 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm

tough to replace.”

Seniors Hunter Smith (5’7, 211 lbs) and Edwin Santos anchor the defensive line. Outside linebacker Zach Wary leads the linebacker core, and senior strong safety Joe Adams (6’4, 205 lbs) leads an inexperienced secondary.

Senior Jordan Wiggins should see playing time at linebacker, while senior Chase Lamers plays in the secondary. Senior Bryan Gibby and junior Jose Campos also see playing time on defense.

Flannigan underscores the importance of winning games early in the 2012 season. “For us, every game is pivotal,” he says. “As a program that hasn’t won a lot of games in the last two years, we need to win early to build confidence going into conference play.”

Rogers’ first home game is in week two on September 7th, when they play host to the Tahlequah Tigers out of Oklahoma. Kickoff is at 7:30 p.m.

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Rogers Heritage

WAR EAGLES Need for Speed

Rogers Heritage War Eagles Conference: 7A West Head Coach: Perry Escalante Years as Head Coach at school: 5 Record at School: 17-25 Athletic Director: Mark Holderbaum Football Staff: Paul Wilson – DC/DL Darren Hotelling – OC/RB Willie Johnson – Special Teams/DB Hal Qualls – QB Scott Davenport – LB Jason Upton – OL Cade Caton – WR 2011 Overall Record/ 2011 Conference Record: 1-9/0-7 Varsity Players Expected for 2012: 100 Returning Lettermen: 22 Returning Offensive Starters: 6 Returning Defensive Starters: 8 Offensive System: Spread Defensive System: 3-3-5

There is an old adage in football that says, “speed kills.” If that statement has any truth to it, the Rogers Heritage War Eagles will certainly be dangerous this fall. They return a stable of speedy, experienced players for the 2012 season. “Our overall team speed should be a strength for our team this fall,” head Coach Perry Escalante says. “We have a lot of athletes who can run to the ball on defense and stretch the field on offense.

That’s a really good combination.”

All-conference wide receiver Forrest Johnson leads the wide receiving corps for Rogers Heritage. The volatile senior had over 900 yards receiving and 11 They’ll need to avoid the injury bug, touchdowns in the 2011 season. Junior however, as injuries played a major part in Jeremy Spickes possesses good hands.

Heritage’s 1-9 finish last season. “Injuries Junior Micca Brown catches well at tight and inexperience really took a toll on us end. last year,” Escalante says. “But we did play a lot of underclassmen, so we feel like the Four seniors start on the offensive line, experience gained will really make us a including center Blake Kemp, tackle Dylan Russell, and guards Richard Banegas and better football team this year.”

Otis Blankenship. Junior Hunter Chasteen The War Eagles return six starters on brings strength to the tackle spot. offense, including junior quarterback Josh Qualls. Qualls had a breakout sophomore The War Eagles return an experienced season, passing for nearly 2,500 yards defense consisting of eight returning and 24 touchdowns on a sixty-percent starters, including junior defensive tackle completion rate, garnering him multiple Carson Scott, who anchors the line. “He was able to draw a lot of double teams last “Newcomer of the Year” honors. year,” Escalante says. Senior Sean Bair starts at defensive tackle also.

Junior Colby Isbell saw playing time at defensive end last year and starts in 2012. Senior Iam Holmberg rushes the quarterback from the opposite end spot.

Photos by Jason Upton

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Junior Brandon Gates carries the load for Heritage at running back. He generated over 800 all-purpose yards in 2011, and brings big-play potential to Heritage’s offense. Senior Tanner O’Brien splits carries with Gates, and also sees passes at wide receiver.

Josh Qualls

Tanner O’Brien

OFFENSE QB – Josh Qualls - Jr. RB – Brandon Gates - Jr. WR – Forrest Johnson - Sr. WR – Tanner O’Brien - Sr. WR – Jeremy Spickes - Jr. TE – Micca Brown - Jr. C – Blake Kemp - Sr. T – Hunter Chasteen - Jr. T – Dylan Russell - Sr. G – Richard Banegas - Sr. G – Otis Blankenship - Sr.

Forrest Johnson

Brandon Gates

DEFENSE DT – Carson Scott - Jr. DT – Sean Bair - Sr. DE – Colby Isbell - Jr. DE – Ian Holmberg - Sr. LB – Utah Julius - Sr. LB – Brandon White - Jr. LB – Forrest Ward - Jr. DB – Forrest Johnson – Sr. DB – Alex Miles - Sr. DB – Peyton Combs - Sr. DT – Daniel Spickes - Jr.

Starting Lineup

Utah Julius

Alex Miles

Carson Scott

Daniel Spickes

2012 Schedule Date Opponent 8/31 Fort Smith Southside 9/7 Fort Smith Northside 9/14 Harrison 9/21 Siloam Springs 9/28 Springdale Har-Ber 10/5 Fayetteville 10/12 Bentonville 10/19 Springdale 10/26 Van Buren 11/2 Rogers

Place Home Home Home Away Home Away Away Home Away Home

Time 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm

All-conference senior Utah Julius leads the linebacking corps after a successful 2011 season at safety. Julius’s blend of speed, athleticism, and strength should help him outdo his team-leading 86 tackles from last year. Junior linebackers Brandon White and Forrest Ward flock to the ball as well.

Heritage’s secondary includes three seniors in Forrest Johnson, Alex Miles, and Peyton Combs. Junior Daniel Spickes blankets receivers at cornerback.

In a high school season, every game counts, but Escalante underscores the importance of their game against Siloam Springs.

“It is our first road game and our first conference game,” Escalante says. “Getting a win against the Panthers will set the tone for the rest of the season.”

The War Eagles’ first home game is on August 31st in week one at Gates Stadium, when they play host to Fort Smith Southside.

Kickoff is at 7:30 p.m.

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Shiloh Christian

SAINTS Bouncing Back Expectations were predictably high for the Shiloh Christian Saints going into the 2011 season. The Saints posted an outstanding 70-5 record in the preceding five seasons, with four of those years resulting in state titles.

Shiloh Christian Saints Conference: 5A West Head Coach: Josh Floyd Years as Head Coach at school: 8 Record at School: 89-19

The Saints were unable to defend their state title last fall, however, as injuries led to a down season. They lost three straight to end the year at a disappointing 5-6 record.

“We were very inexperienced last season,” head coach Josh Floyd says. “Our guys played hard and got better throughout the season. Unfortunately, we had several Athletic Director: injuries also, which didn’t help because of Josh Floyd Football Staff: our lack of depth. It definitely helped prepare Rod Washington – Off Coord./WR us for this upcoming season though.”

Dawayne Hudson – Def Coord/LB Haden Gilder – Oline Shiloh Christian returns twenty-five Moe Henry – Co-DefCoord/DBacks letterman, which have bonded from the ups Jimmy Harris – Dline and downs of the previous season. “This is Austin Tucker – RB/TE a very close team,” Floyd says. “We went through some tough times last year, but we are ready to bounce back.”

2011 Overall Record/ 2011 Conference Record: 5-6/4-3 Junior quarterback Daniel Shimer leads Varsity Players Shiloh Christian’s spread no-huddle offense, Expected for 2012: 50 bolstered by a strong Returning Lettermen: 25 receiving corps Returning Offensive Starters: 7 in senior Ryan Returning Defensive Starters: 6 Michaelis and Offensive System: No-Huddle sophomores Defensive System: Multiple Drew Tyler and Jarred M o o r e .

Shimer is a dual-threat

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quarterback who can make plays on the ground when needed. Michaelis led the Saints in receiving last year, with over 700 yards receiving and six touchdowns.

Sophomore Zach Stanley also sees passes at receiver. Junior Alan King rotates between tight end and wide receiver.

Elusive running back Chris Cox is a valuable playmaker for the Saints. Floyd utilizes the junior back as a receiving weapon in addition to running the ball.

Senior Connor Clark complements the running game, as he is a physical downhill runner. Sophomore Chandler Smith blocks and sees passes thrown his way at fullback.

Shiloh Christian returns a seasoned offensive line, including returning starters Todd Rosamond, Matt Hansen, Myles Tucker, and Jon Williams. Jacob Ralph is a senior who enjoyed a breakout junior year.

The rest of the starting linemen are juniors.

Zach Stanley provides a burst of speed for the Saints’ defense at end. Juniors Nick Harris and Brad Littrell work at defensive tackle, and returning senior Mitchell Griffith plugs the interior at noseguard.

Shiloh Christian’s starting linebacking corps consists of three juniors, two of which are returning starters. Daniel Shimer

Daniel Shimer

OFFENSE

Chris Cox

Connor Clark

Jacob Ralph

DEFENSE

Nick Gookin

Mitchell Griffith

Ryan Michaelis

2012 Schedule

QB – Daniel Shimer - Jr. DE – Zach Stanley - So. RB – Chris Cox - Jr. DT – Nick Harris - Jr. Date RB – Connor Clark - Sr. DT – Brad Littrell - Jr. 8/27 FB – Chandler Smith - So. NG – Mitchell Griffith - Sr. WR – Ryan Michaelis – Sr. 9/7 LB – Matt Hansen - Jr. WR – Drew Tyler - So. LB – Nick Gookin - Jr. 9/14 WR – Zach Stanley - So. LB – Daniel Shimer - Jr. WR – Jarred Moore - So. 9/21 DB – Kyle Plunkett - Jr. WR – Alan King - Jr. 9/28 OL – Jacob Ralph - Sr. DB – Hayden Huett - So. OL – Todd Rosamond - Jr. DB – Drew Tyler - So. 10/5 OL – Matt Hansen - Jr. DB – Ryan Michaelis - Sr. OL – Myles Tucker - Jr. 10/12 DB – Ben Olsen - So. OL – Jon Williams - Jr.

Starting Lineup

Matt Hansen

10/19 10/26 11/2

Opponent Warren Broken Bow, OK Greenwood Morrilton Vilonia Huntsville Harrison Greenbrier Clarksville Alma

Place UCA Away Home Away Home Home Away Away Home Home

Time 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm

saw limited playing time at linebacker last season but is expected to start in 2012. Junior Matt Hansen started at defensive tackle last season but hones his skills at linebacker this fall. Nick Gookin starts after a good offseason.

Ryan Michaelis, Drew Tyler, and junior Kyle Plunkett all return as starters to a young secondary. Sophomores Hayden Huett and Ben Olson help out also.

Shiloh Christian’s first home game will be in week three, when they play host to Greenwood at Champions Stadium. Kickoff is at 7 p.m.

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Siloam Springs

PANTHERS New Challenges The Siloam Springs Panthers started the season strong, winning five of their first six games, and seemed destined to be playoff bound. But after a 62-35 loss in a shootout with Greenbrier, Siloam Springs won just one of their next three games, ending the season with a 6-4 record and on the outside looking in on the playoffs.

Siloam Springs Panthers Conference: 7A West Head Coach: Bryan Ross Years as Head Coach at school: 3 Record at School: 14-16 Athletic Director: Kerwin Dees Football Staff: Troy Coke – DC/LB Richie Mathis – OL Dwain Pippin – DL/Special Teams Jonathan Johnson – QB/RB Jacob Gill – Secondary/S Tad Davis – WR Chuck Jones – Secondary/CB 2011 Overall Record/ 2011 Conference Record: 6-4/3-4 Varsity Players Expected for 2012: 80 Returning Lettermen: 20 Returning Offensive Starters: 4 Returning Defensive Starters: 7 Offensive System: Spread Defensive System: 4-2

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Siloam Springs struggles with depth at wide receiver, a crucial position for a spread offense. “We have to work on developing a dependable receiving corps,” Ross says. Seniors Bronson Tucker and Edwin Magana, as well as junior Chandler Gregory, all see passes thrown their way.

Sophomore David Goodman catches well at tight end.

“Last year there was an outstanding effort by our kids. We had some key injuries late Returning senior tackle Austin Farmer in the season that derailed a trip to the leads the offensive line. Farmer is their biggest lineman at 6’1, 340 lbs, and playoffs,” head coach Bryan Ross says. anchors the line with his size. Junior Blaine In 2012, the Panthers face an even Crouse starts at the opposite tackle spot. tougher schedule, having moved into the Junior duo J.C. Everett and Daryn Ketcher 7A/6A West, which includes powerhouse both start at guard. Senior Jacob Engel programs such as Fayetteville, Bentonville, snaps the ball at center. and Springdale Har-Ber. Ross knows that this move brings with it a whole new set Junior Alejandro Dominguez is the of challenges. “Nothing can prepare us for Panthers’ kicker in 2012. the competition we are going to see in the 7A this year,” Ross says. “The 5A west is The Panthers excel on defense, where they tough, but being moved up to the 7A West is return seven starters. “We return several key defensive players from last year,” Ross a whole new ballgame.” says. “Our best overall attribute will be our The Panthers face their new conference experienced defensive front. They will give with an offense returning just four starters. us a chance to get better on defense.” That Their offensive line will be a driving force in front consists of senior defensive ends the fall. “We will have a much bigger and David Zamora and Colten Campbell, stronger offensive line and an experienced quarterback,” Ross says.

Athletic senior Austin Van Poucke returns to the offense as the Panthers’ quarterback.

Van Poucke played mostly wide receiver last season, but started at quarterback several games. Van Poucke’s elusiveness gives him dual threat capability for the Panthers’ spread offense. Senior speedster Scout Alexander leads Siloam Springs’ rushing attack.

David Zamora

Luis Gutierrez

OFFENSE QB – Austin Van Poucke - Sr. RB – Scout Alexander - Sr. WR – Bronson Tucker - Sr. WR – Edwin Magana - Sr. WR – Chandler Gregory - Jr. TE – David Goodman - So. OT – Blaine Crouse - Jr. OT – Austin Farmer - Sr. OG – J.C. Everett - Jr. OG – Daryn Ketcher - Jr. C – Jacob Engel - Sr.

Blaine Crouse

Austin Van Poucke

Scout Alexander

Starting Lineup

Alejandro Dominguez

Mario Flores

2012 Schedule

DEFENSE DE – David Zamora - Sr. DE – Colten Campbell - Sr DT – Luis Gutierrez - Sr. DT – Juan Peraza - Sr. LB – Jose Reyes - Sr. LB – Mario Flores - Sr. LB – Mitchell Dolezal - Jr. CB – Oscar Alaniz - Sr. CB – Scout Alexander - Sr. S – Gage Ennis - Jr. S – Jordan Herring - Sr.

Gage Ennis

Date 8/31 9/7 9/14 9/21 9/28 10/5 10/12 10/19 10/26 11/2

Opponent Watson Chapel Russellville Gravette Rogers Heritage Bentonville Springdale Springdale Har-Ber Fayetteville Rogers Van Buren

Place Home Home Away Home Away Home Home Away Away Home

Time 6:00 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm

senior defensive tackle Luis Gutierrez, and senior defensive tackle Juan Peraza. The four’s combination of athleticism, speed, and strength make them tough to block.

Senior Jose Reyes leads Siloam Springs’ linebacking corps, alongside senior Mario Flores. Junior Mitchell Dolezal sees playing time as well.

Coach Ross sees week four as the most pivotal game in the new conference. “The conference opener against Rogers Heritage will be huge,” Ross says. “That game will be a good measuring stick for our team.”

Siloam Springs’ first home game is in week two on September 7th, when they play host to the Russellville Cyclones at Glen Black Stadium. Kickoff is at 7:30 p.m.

Photos by Cara Noble

Photos by Cara Noble

The Panthers seasoned secondary provides hard hits, with junior Gage Ennis and senior Jordan Herring playing the safety positions. Seniors Oscar Alaniz and Scout Alexander cover receivers at cornerback.

Photos by Cara Noble

Photos by Cara Noble AR Sports NWA Football Preview 2012 • Pg. 49

Springdale

BULLDOGS Back on Track The Springdale Bulldogs enjoyed a 14-win 2005 season that ended in a state championship, but they have struggled in recent years, averaging just under five wins a season since. Injuries and inconsistency contributed to the Bulldogs’ 0-6 start last year.

Springdale Bulldogs Conference: 7A West Head Coach: Shane Patrick Years as Head Coach at school: 2 Record at School: 9-13 Athletic Director: Wayne Stehlik Football Staff: Mark Whatley – Off Coord Eric Middleton – Def Coord Robert Johnson – Asst HC/ Dline Steve Mikles – Safties/Strength and Conditioning Coord Trey LaValle – Oline Dennis Debusk – RB Nathan Middleton - DB 2011 Overall Record/ 2011 Conference Record: 3-8/3-4 Varsity Players Expected for 2012: 95 Returning Lettermen: 16 Returning Offensive Starters: 6 Returning Defensive Starters: 6 Offensive System: Spread Defensive System: 4-3

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“It was a very tough year,” Patrick says. “We played the toughest schedule in the state, we lost seven starters on defense due to injuries, and we played seven different combinations of offensive linemen.”

The Bulldogs rallied, however, to win three of their final four games of the season to earn a playoff berth. “We struggled until the last four games of the season, and then we put some games together to make the playoffs,” Patrick says. “We learned a lot from last season.”

With some late-season momentum carrying into 2012, Patrick hopes to get Springdale’s storied program back on track this fall. The Bulldogs enjoy a balanced spread offense, manned by senior quarterback Will Whatley. Senior Colton Greenwood starts at running back, alongside dynamic junior Deandre Murray, who is explosive out of the backfield.

Athletic senior Garrett Tallman starts at wide receiver. Junior Jordan Dennis and senior Wyatt Whatley round out the receiving corps. Junior Josiah Wymer blocks at tight end.

Photos courtesy of Shane Patrick

Senior guard Joe Burlingame and senior tackle Scottie Eason anchor the offensive line with speed and strength.

The other offensive line positions are still open for competition, but Alex Martinez, Mario Chavez, Edwin Espinosa, Robert Ibarra, and Eric Ortega are expected to see playing time.

Photos courtesy of Shane Patrick

On defense, senior end Jay Patrick leads the defense as an anchor on the defensive line.

Senior Zach Hodges rushes the quarterback opposite Patrick.

Senior Jesus Leon accompanies them on the line, as he starts at defensive tackle.

Senior Clay Patrick helps lead the defensive from the linebacker position. He was Springdale’s

Clay Patrick

Garrett Tallman

OFFENSE QB – Will Whatley Sr. RB – Colton Greenwood - Sr. RB – Deandre Murray - Jr. WR – Garrett Tallman - Sr. WR – Jordan Dennis - Jr. WR – Wyatt Whatley - Sr. TE – Josiah Wymer - Jr. G – Joe Burlingame - Sr. T – Scottie Eaton - Sr.

Jay Patrick

Wyatt Whatley

DEFENSE DE – Jay Patrick - Sr. DE – Zach Hodges - Sr. DT – Jesus Leon - Sr. LB – Clay Patrick - Sr. LB – Neal Parsons - Jr. LB – Kevin Flores - Sr. SS – Jerry Wood - Sr.

Starting Lineup

Joe Burlingame

Scottie Eaton

Jesus Leon

Jerry Wood

2012 Schedule Date Opponent 8/31 Batesville 9/7 Tulsa Central 9/14 Bixby, OK 9/21 Rogers 9/28 Fayetteville 10/5 Siloam Springs 10/12 Van Buren 10/19 Rogers Heritage 10/26 Bentonville 11/2 Springdale Har-Ber

Place Home Home Away Away Home Away Home Away Home Away

Time 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm

primary playmaker in 2011. Junior Neal Parsons and senior Kevin Flores also see playing time at linebacker.

In the secondary, senior Jerry Wood brings experience to the strong safety position. The remainder of the secondary is open for competition, but J.T. Ratcliff, Jason Martinez, and Kyle Rill all see playing time.

Patrick sees Springdale’s chemistry as a strength of his team. “This bunch is very close,” he says. “We have a bunch of players who are just above average, but they are ready to take the next step in getting this program back to where it is supposed to be.”

With the difficulty of Springdale’s schedule, Patrick wants to start off on the right foot in week one. “We need to start fast. The first game against Batesville will be huge,” Patrick says. “Then we’ll play the defending state champions Fayetteville in week five. We’ll close out the season with Bentonville and Har-Ber, both of those will be big games.”

The Bulldogs’ first home game will be in week one on August 31st, when they play host to Batesville at Jerrell Williams Bulldog Stadium. Kickoff is at 7:30 p.m.

AR Sports NWA Football Preview 2012 • Pg. 51

Sprindale Har-Ber

WILDCATS Finishing Strong The Har-Ber Wildcats continued their winning tradition in 2011, notching seven wins in the regular season and a 21-16 first-round playoff win against Little Rock Central. Their season ended on a 41-37 loss to North Little Rock in the second round of the playoffs.

Springdale Har-Ber Wildcats Conference: 7A West Head Coach: Chris Wood Years as Head Coach at school: 6 Record at School: 52-22 Athletic Director: Wayne Stehlik Football Staff: Patrick Scott – QB Don Struebing – OC/OL Greg Simpson – Asst Head Coach/RB Gary Wear – DC/Safeties Ric Davies – CB Brannon Haney – Special Teams/OLB Mark Taylor – Football Operations/ILB Travis Moreland - DL 2011 Overall Record/ 2011 Conference Record: 8-4/5-2 Varsity Players Expected for 2012: 95 Returning Lettermen: 45 Returning Offensive Starters: 2 Returning Defensive Starters: 7 Offensive System: Pistol Defensive System: 50

In the 2012 season, head coach Chris Wood looks to take his team even deeper into the playoffs by focusing on playing consistently as a team. “We had a solid year last year,” he says. “But we came up short in the second round. We need to focus more on finishing strong.”

Wood will rely on new personnel to get the job done this fall, as Har-Ber returns just two starters on offense. Wood hopes that the 7-on-7 tournament, in addition to summer camps, have helped the new starters get comfortable in their positions, but there’s no substitute for in-game experience. “Our biggest challenge in 2012 is having new kids in the starting spots,” he says. “They need game experience. You get that by playing games.”

Senior Nick Byrne (6’4, 220 lbs) is HarBer’s go-to receiver this season. At tight end, Byrne caught 29 passes for 467 yards last season, including six touchdown scores. Junior Gus Vitt (6’1, 160 lbs) is another impact wide receiver to watch.

Juniors Landon Jones (6’4, 270 lbs) and Isaac Johnson (6’6, 270 lbs) start as tackles on the offensive line. Senior linemen Jesus Delasancha and Ty Harrison are also expected to see playing time on the line.

Har-Ber’s experience on defense will be a key component to winning games in 2012, as the Wildcats return seven defensive starters. “We return a ton of experience on defense,” Wood says. “We should be like the 2009 group.” The “Our offense is young,” Wood continues. 2009 team he refers to was a Wildcat team which won “But it has all the intangibles to be good.” thirteen games, as well With so many starters having graduated, as a conference title and several positions on both offense and state championship. defense are open for competition. This includes the quarterback position after “Our front seven will be Austin Mayfield graduated last spring, but big, strong, and fast,” senior Pierce Phillips (6’1, 171 lbs) could Wood says. “I don’t see playing time at the spot. He saw limited think we have a glaring playing time last year, but is one of the few skill players with in-game experience for Har-Ber. Although Har-Ber graduated their second

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and third leading rushers, they return senior Tucker Lee (5’9, 200 lbs), their leading rusher. Lee rushed for nearly 800 yards and eight touchdowns in 2011, averaging 7.6 yards per carry. Wood will depend on him to carry the load for the Wildcat offense this fall. Senior fullback Adam Bowlin (5’8, 175 lbs) joins him in the backfield.

Tucker Lee

Peyton Squires

Nick Byrne

Adam Bowlin

OFFENSE

DEFENSE

QB – Pierce Phillips – Sr.

DE – Les Van Curen - Jr.

RB – Tucker Lee - Sr.

DE – Jake Hall - Jr.

FB – Adam Bowlin - Sr.

NG – Josh Frazier - Jr.

WR – Gus Vitt - Jr.

OLB – David Karr - Sr.

TE – Nick Byrne - Sr.

OLB – Peyton Squires - Sr.

OT – Landon Jones - Jr.

MLB – Brock Dassero - Jr.

OT – Isaac Johnson - Jr.

CB – Hunter Patrick - Sr.

OL – Jesus Delasancha - Sr. OL – Ty Harrison - Sr.

Key Contributors

David Karr

Hunter Patrick

Adam Bowlin

David Karr

2012 Schedule Date Opponent 8/31 Webb City 9/7 Columbia Rockbridge 9/14 Fort Smith Southside 9/21 Bentonville 9/28 Heritage 10/5 Van Buren 10/12 Siloam Springs 10/19 Rogers 10/26 Fayetteville 11/2 Springdale

Place Away Away Home Home Away Home Away Home Away Home

Time 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm

weakness on defense. It’s a tough group, and we’re going to play tough, hard-nosed football. That’s what Har-Ber hangs it hat on.”

The defensive line is comprised of junior ends Les Van Curen (6’3, 236 lbs) and Jake Hall (6’5, 245 lbs), as well as junior nose guard Josh Frazier (6’4, 330 lbs).

Seniors David Karr (5’11, 172 lbs) and Peyton Squires (6’1, 209 lbs) plays at outside linebacker, and junior Brock Dassero (6’3, 220 lbs) has a major impact at the middle linebacker position.

Senior Hunter Patrick (5’10, 162 lbs) is expected to start at corner.

Wood sees Southside as being the Wildcats’ most important game early in the season, and it’s also their home opener. The game is in week three on September 14th at Jarrell Williams Stadium. Kickoff is at 7:30 p.m.

Photos by Quinn Engel

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West Fork

TIGERS Gaining Experience After losing a core group of seniors from their 11-win 2010 team, the West Fork Tigers surprised everyone in 2011, when they finished with an 8-4 record on the way to a conference championship. “We had very few starters coming back, so no one really knew much about us,” head coach Rodney Selph says. “We were able to get some of the younger players some experience, so we hope that will help us this year.”

West Fork Tigers Conference: 3A-1 Head Coach: Rodney Selph Years as Head Coach at school: 4 Record at School: 35-13 Athletic Director: David Ferrell Football Staff: Brad Lindley - Defensive Coordinator Bob Wise - Defensive Line Bryan Dougan - Offensive Line 2011 Overall Record/ 2011 Conference Record: 8-4/7-0 Varsity Players Expected for 2012: 38 Returning Lettermen: 14 Returning Offensive Starters: 5 Returning Defensive Starters: 5 Offensive System: Spread Defensive System: 4-4

The Tigers return five starters to an offense that reverts back to the spread offense. It could be a rocky transition, though, as West Fork has a set of first-time starters at the quarterback and wide receiver positions.

Junior Dylan Clayton runs the offense at quarterback, his primary targets being senior Tanner Andrews, junior Jake Dickinson, and sophomore Wil Young.

Tanner Andrews will return as starters, while Tristen Martin and Jake Dickinson are first-time starters.

The secondary, however, lacks the experience of the Tigers’ front eight. All three of their defensive backs - Dylan Clayton and sophomores Travis England and Louis Crawford - are first-time starters.

Selph sees their week one matchup against Gentry and their week four conference opener against Mountain View as two key games for the coming season.

The Tigers’ first home game is on August 31st in week one, when they play host to Gentry at Tiger Stadium. Kickoff is at 7 p.m.

Photos courtesy of West Fork QB Club

Senior halfback Craig Brannan and junior tailback Wyatt Montgomery lead the team as the primary playmakers. Both return as starters after solid 2011 seasons.

The Tigers have a strong offensive line, with senior center Wyatt Simco, senior right tackle Matthew Canfield, and junior left tackle Kallin Stokes all returning as starters.

Juniors Tristen Martin and Jake Jarnagan will also start on the line. Canfield earned all-conference honors last season.

On defense, West Fork’s front eight returns five starters. Wyatt Montgomery, Kallin Stokes, and Matthew Canfield play both sides of ball, as they anchor the defensive line. Junior Preston Davis starts on the line also. At linebacker, Craig Brannan and

2012 Schedule Wyatt Montgomery

Matthew Canfield

Wyatt Simco

Dylan Clayton

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Craig Brannan

Tanner Andrews

Kallin Stokes

Jake Dickinson

Date 8/31 9/7 9/14 9/21 9/28 10/5 10/12 10/19 10/26 11/2

Opponent Gentry Farmington Prairie Grove Mountain View Marshall Melbourne Yellville-Summit Elkins Green Forest Greenland

Place Home Away Away Home Away Home Away Away Home Home

Time 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm

Yellville-Summit

PANTHERS Repeat Performance The Yellville-Summit Panthers saw enormous success in the 2011 season, recording an 8-4 record that included a firstround playoff win over Mansfield. Fountain Lake ended the Panthers’ season in the second round, defeating them 37-7. YellvilleSummit’s two conference losses came at the hands of West Fork, the eventual conference champions, and a surprise contender in the Lincoln Wolves.

With 16 starters returning to his team, head coach Calvin Mallett looks for the Panthers to have a repeat performance this fall, but with the hopes of winning the conference championship this time around.

On offense, junior Caleb Gilley and senior Alex Beck compete for the starting job at quarterback.

Gilley started last season for YellvilleSummit and was their playmaker, producing yardage both with his feet and his arm. He rushed for 72 yards on 11 carries and two touchdowns in a win against Rose Bud last season, and threw a game-winning twentyyard touchdown in the final regular season game against Greenland, earning YellvilleSummit a home game in the first round of the playoffs. Beck started in 2010 for the Panthers, producing over 1,400 yards of offense and 16 touchdowns.

both see playing time at fullback.

Terrence Taylor returns as a playmaker for Yellville-Summit at wide receiver.

Taylor rushed for a 38-yard touchdown against Berryville in week one, and was on the receiving end of Gilley’s 20-yard touchdown pass against Greenland. Junior Anthony Vickers caught two passes for 34 and 11 yards on a game-changing thirdquarter drive against Greenland, in addition to snagging the game-ending interception at defensive back. Jared Allen has good hands.

Senior John Treat starts at tackle, alongside junior Colt Wilson. Senior guard Stockton Mallett anchors the line and is a Division 1 prospect. Ethan Bean starts at guard, and senior Korbin Duffy snaps the ball at center.

The Panthers return eight starters to defense, led by noseguard Stockton Mallett. Several other familiar faces from the offensive line start on defense, including defensive tackle Korbin Duffy and defensive ends Ethan Bean and Colt Wilson.

Junior Kane Davenport helps lead a linebacking corps consisting of junior Rhett Moore and junior Seth Morgan. Gabe Dickson, Terrence Taylor, Jared Allen, Andy Jackson, and Preston Carpenter all contribute at linebacker also.

Yellville-Summit Panthers Conference: 3A-1 Head Coach: Calvin Mallett Years as Head Coach at school: 23 Record at School: 126-110-2 Athletic Director: Billy Fogerty 2011 Overall Record/ 2011 Conference Record: 8-4/5-2 Varsity Players Expected for 2012: Returning Lettermen: 25 Returning Offensive Starters: 8 Returning Defensive Starters: 8 Offensive System: Spread Defensive System: Multiple

The Panthers have a stable of backs to utilize in their spread offense, including sophomore Tristin Jones, sophomore Matt In the secondary, Anthony Vickers and Verrett, senior Gabe Dickson, and junior Caleb Gilley play at cornerback, while Alex Seth Morgan. Verrett might be the Panthers’ Beck anchors the backs at safety. most explosive player. Dickson and Morgan

2012 Schedule Date

Opponent

Place

Time

8/31 9/7 9/14 9/21 9/28 10/5 10/12 10/19 10/26 11/2

Piggott Salem England Elkins Greenland Green Forest West Fork Mountain View Melbourne Marshall

Away Home Home Away Home Away Home Home Away Away

7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm 7:00 pm

Gabe Dickson

John Treat

Chris Sheehy

Jared Allen

Korbin Duffy

Stockton Mallett

Ethan Bean

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Last season ended in a climactic rematch between Fayetteville and Bentonville in the state title game.

Fayetteville won the first set 25-17, but Bentonville rallied to win the next three sets, edging out the Bulldogs 25-23 and 25-22 in the third and fourth sets to claim the state title.

When the dust settled, Fayetteville enjoyed a 34-2 record that earned them a conference championship and a national ranking. Bentonville finished 32-5.

This fall, Southside and Northside move to 7A Central, and the 7A West will see several new faces.

7A West Coaches’ Poll 1.

Fayetteville – The Lady Bulldogs return as the favorite after posting a 14-0 conference record last season, and they return a slew of impact players from last year’s squad.

2. Bentonville – The Lady Tigers have won two consecutive state championships and are poised to compete for a third with a solid team.

3. Springdale Har-Ber – The Lady Wildcats finished 12-12 and made it to the second round of the playoffs last season. They return a good squad in 2012, and are 4. Siloam Springs – After being a perennial contender in the 5A West, the Lady Panthers move up to compete in

the toughest conference in the state. There’s no doubt that Siloam Springs has a solid program, and they’ve played with several contenders from the 7A West in past years, but with their first year playing a full 7A conference schedule, they remain untested.

5. Rogers – The Lady Mountaineers posted a 6-19-1 record last year, but they have made plenty of improvements and look to build on the results from 2011.

6. The sixth spot is a toss-up between Van Buren, Springdale, and Rogers Heritage. Van Buren shifts from the 7A Central to the 7A West after placing fifth in the conference last season and looks for a fresh start. Rogers Heritage and Springdale have struggled in recent years, but have made great strides and should provide a challenge for opposing teams this season.

Top Teams Overview Fayetteville

The senior-laden squad is led by Aubrey Edie, who is a twotime all-state selection at setter. The senior averaged nine assists per game last season, committing just four errors, and she recorded 131 kills on 289 attempts. Her performance last season earned her an invitation to play for the U.S. National Team. Edie has Photos by Ken Young committed to play volleyball for SEC contender Ole Miss after she graduates.

Senior Hannah Pinter is a twoyear starter at outside hitter, and brings a varied skill set to the Bulldog squad.

She averaged three kills per game last season, in addition to serving 38 aces, good for fourth best on the team.

“She’s been a solid performer for us in a lot of different areas,” coach Jessica Phelan says. “She’s a great passer, a great setter, and a great hitter.”

Pinter is a smart player who excels in the classroom as well as on the court. “Her GPA is through the roof,” Phelan says.

Senior Mikayla Avery returns at outside hitter as well, after scoring 255 kills on 698 attempts last season. “She’s just a really smart volleyball player,” Phelan says. “And she knows how to score points.”

Photos by Ken Young

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Senior Paige Gocke (6’1) uses her size to find success at

opposite hitter. She was second on the team in kills last season and first in kill percentage. “She’s a big left-handed kid who provides a lot of offense for us,” the coach says.

“She has that wow factor - she really hits the ball pretty hard.”

Senior defensive specialist Andrea Kathol boasts a 4.0 GPA and averaged 3.1 digs per game in 2011. Phelan names senior middle blocker Kennedie Daniel and junior Cassidy Ginger as the two best blockers on the team. Daniel led the team in blocks her junior season, while Ginger recorded 13 blocks in limited playing time.

Phylicia Hill sat out last season with a knee injury after seeing plenty of playing time as a sophomore, and she’ll bring an athleticism to the Bulldogs offense that makes them even more formidable. “She’s about one-hundred percent now and fully rehabbed,” Phelan says. “She is probably the best jumper in the gym. She can really get off the floor, and she adds a lot of athleticism to our front row.”

A key strength for Fayetteville is its hitters. The team averaged 12 kills per game last season, but the Bulldogs can score points in a variety of ways. “We have a really balanced offense,” Phelan says. “We have a lot of good hitters. We’re able to score points in a lot of different ways. We’re a good serving team, and we’re athletic at the net, so we score a lot of points with our blocking.”

Bentonville

Bentonville claimed their second straight state title last season when they defeated Fayetteville in the finals. “We had to build our confidence and believe we had what it took to go all the way,” head coach Michelle Smith says.

Last year’s squad was a seasoned team consisting of ten seniors, and with a solid group of players having graduated, a nucleus of young players take the court for the Tigers this fall. Co-captain Hailey McNee brings crucial experience to the team as a three-year starter at the middle blocker position. McNee recorded a 26 percent hit percentage and 41 percent kill percentage last season. “She brings a lot of experience and leadership,” Smith says. “She passes, she serves – she’s got a lot on her shoulders.”

Senior Madison Flint is another experienced player on the squad that will step up into a leadership role this fall. “She’s more of a quiet leader,” Smith says. “But she has the utmost respect of her teammates, both on and off the court.”

Smith says junior Emily Bruce is the most improved player on the team after a productive offseason, and starts as libero this fall for the Lady Tigers. She recorded 46 digs last fall. “She came in last year as a sophomore playing junior varsity,” the coach says. “And she improved tremendously last year. She has earned her spot on the back row.”

Junior Ariel Hornsby makes an impact on the front row. She was second on the team in blocks last season, recording 67.

“She will give us crucial front row help,” Smith says. “She will be a factor.”

Sophomores Sabrina Shepherd, Haley Seyfarth, and Anna Le Duc round out the younger players on the squad. “We’re putting this massive puzzle together, and they’re definitely fitting in the pieces,” Smith says.

The coach wants to continue the winning tradition of Bentonville volleyball into the new season. “We want to continue the tradition of Bentonville High School,” she says.

“And we want to learn from our mistakes and get better.”

Siloam Springs

Siloam Springs enters the 7A West after posting a 17-7 record in 2011, which include a trip to the state tournament, where they lost in the second round. Last year’s team consisted of just three seniors and a host of sophomores.

“We were extremely young last year,” coach Rose Cheek says. “But I was pleased with how we did.”

A junior-laden squad leads the Lady Panthers this fall. “We are returning some juniors that saw varsity time last year, so that’s gonna help us. We’re still relatively young and we’re not real big, but what we lack in size and experience we make up in heart.”

Junior setter Ashley Avery is a three-year starter who “is a tremendous competitor,” Cheek says. “She’s a tremendous leader. She’s very passionate, and she’s a very smart player.”

Junior Lauren Cook returns as an outside hitter. “She’s a very good hitter,” the coach says. “She knows the game very well.” Bailey Bolinger and Beth Brankle logged significant playing time last season as defensive specialists. “They are both extremely scrappy and extremely quick,” Cheek says.

Junior Bailei Brown saw limited playing time last season and has made strides in the offseason. Junior setter Ashlin Stock is a scrappy competitor. Taylor Gay and Leah Bergthold have both had productive offseasons. “We’ve seen tremendous growth out of both of them,” Cheek says.

Mirna Torres and Bailey Cameron seek to contribute as sophomores at the middle hitter position. “They’re really coming on,” the coach says.

“I love this team’s competitiveness,” Cheek continues.

“They’re passionate but they’re fun. That’s a strength I think this group has, is that they’re very close.” The Lady Panthers are also very strong academically – every player on the squad has over a 3.5 GPA. Cheek’s goal is to place in the top four this season, both in the 7A West and in state. “The goal is to be in the top four,” she says. “We felt like that was a realistic goal.”

Smith sees the Lady Tigers’ versatility as a strength of her team, as well as their depth. “We have a lot of depth in our roster, both young and old,” Smith says.

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By John Post “Somewhere, behind the athlete you’ve become and the hours of practice and the coaches that pushed you, is a little girl who fell in love with the game and never looked back. Play for her.”

This is senior setter Aubrey Edie’s favorite quote, and it sheds remarkable light upon the leader of the Lady Bulldogs team. That little girl that Aubrey plays for was a six year-old that began playing the game when her mother had back surgery. “I was really dependent on my mom at that time,” Aubrey says. “So they sent me away to volleyball camp for that week, and that’s when I started to play.”

Aubrey fell in love with the sport, and was a natural at playing it. She began playing on organized teams when she was ten, and quickly flourished into one of the top high school players in the state and one of the best setters in the Photos by Ken Young nation. She returns for her senior season ranked as the 27th setter in the nation by PrepVolleyball.com.

Volleyball runs in the family, so it’s no surprise that she brings such talent to the sport.

Her mother played volleyball, and she is a major influence in Aubrey’s life. “She’s just a big role model for me,” she says. “She pushes me, but not to the breaking point. She’s always there, and she always wants me to do my best.”

A number of Division One schools recruited Aubrey.

She visited Pepperdine, Nebraska and Florida State before visiting Ole Miss, the school she would eventually commit to. “I realized that Ole Miss was what I wanted after I visited other places. I really like the coaching staff, and the girls are awesome,” she says. “I feel really comfortable there, like I’m going to fit in and make a difference.”

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and plans to be a first-grade teacher. “I came to Fayetteville in the first grade, and I really liked my first-grade teacher.

She’s still my favorite teacher.”

Aubrey says. “And I really like little kids, and I get along with them.”

Aubrey has faced many challenges as an athlete, most notably when she had to step up last year at Nationals after star libero Tatum Marshall tore her ACL. “She was leader on the back row, and I was

Aubrey Edie

Fayetteville High School Senior Parents: Angie and Ed Baker, Chuck and Jamie Edie Past Individual Accomplishments: -Nominated for the ESPNHS Volleyball Player of the Year -NWA Big 6 Player of the Year -MVP – Battle of the Fort Tournament -MVP – Grand Slam Tournament -Named 27th Setter in the Nation

by PrepVolleyball.com Other Interests: Playing softball and basketball, reading Favorite Quote: “Somewhere, behind the athlete you’ve become and the hours of practice and the coaches that pushed you, is a little girl who fell in love with the game and never looked back. Play for her.”

Player Profile

the leader on the front row,” Aubrey says. “And when we went to Nationals the week after, I kind of had to step up and be louder, and encourage my teammates the whole time, not just when I was on the front row.”

always keep in mind the six year-old that fell in love with volleyball.

“It was kind of a challenge because I was so used to doing it one way and I had to change it on the spot,” she adds.

When she’s not playing volleyball, Aubrey is usually playing another sport. She plays shooting guard for the Fayetteville basketball team, and plays first baseman and outfield for the softball team. “When I have downtime from sports, I either read or hang out with my friends,” she says.

Aubrey’s fondest memory as a volleyball player is when they played their regular season matches against Bentonville last year at home. “We had so much support from the student body,” she says. “It was crazy, and the atmosphere was awesome. It was good to come out with a win.”

In 2012, Aubrey wants to win the state title in volleyball and achieve a 4.0 GPA. She also wants to improve her leadership abilities. “I want to be the best leader I can be and set an example,” she says.

A new set of challenges await Aubrey in the 2012 season, but you can be sure that she will face them with the same optimism and determination that has gotten her to the place she is today. She will play hard, but she will

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By Marty Barnes 7A West boys tennis may be deja vu in 2012. Bentonville was last year’s conference co-champ with Fayetteville.

Bentonville and Fayetteville battled for the state title with Bentonville winning their second consecutive state championship. According to the 7A West coaches, the two schools should battle again for the two big prizes.

The biggest questions should be answered in the pre-conference matches as both schools try to fill some of the vacancies left by graduation. Most coaches agree that both schools have great returning players as well as some young talented players that are ready to make their mark. As with the girls 7A West tennis, rumors have been swirling, but it is not about players switching from singles to doubles or vice versa. The biggest rumor swirling on the boys side of the 7A West is a question of one or two players transferring out of the conference and enrolling in private schools.

While Bentonville and Fayetteville slug it out in what one coach calls “the grudge match”, the remaining conference teams should all be in a battle for the other positions. Rogers High School seems to be in the best position to lock down third place.

The Mounties are led by the return of their #1 singles player Nathan Street. Street came in seeded #3 in last year’s conference tournament. Street and the other Mounties are looking to garner more points with the contributions of Riley McGill.

There are a number of questions remaining with the other

teams in the conference. Van Buren and Siloam Springs are coming into the conference and are bringing relatively unknown competition to most of the 7A West coaches.

Heritage, HarBer, and Springdale High School will also be attempting to bust into the top three or four places.

Summary of Coaches Poll #1- Bentonville seems to have returned enough firepower to be considered the team to beat in 2012. The Tigers have a new head coach in Nick Nersesian as legendary coach Paul Pautsch has taken his coaching skills to the college level. Pautsch will stay close to home and try to turn around the John Brown University tennis program.

Coach Nersesian says he and his assistants will follow Coach Pautsch’s blueprint to success, “patience and consistency”. Look for Bentonville to continue their tradition by being fundamentally strong and extremely competitive at every position. #2 - Fayetteville gets the #2 nod but not without some questions. The rumor mill has it that one of the key returners is possibly transferring and leaving a pretty good void to fill in the line-up. Fayetteville returns the #1 singles player in the conference from last year in Reed Churchill. Churchill won both the conference and state singles titles last year. Luke Lundstrum returns as half of the doubles team that was state runner-up last year. #3 - Rogers High School seems to be the third best team in the conference. Nathan Street may have to put the team on his back to secure this spot but the returning #1 singles player for the Mounties seems up to the challenge. #4 - Big questions here. Could be a mad scramble for places #4 - #8.

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Player Profiles REED CHURCHILL - Fayetteville High School

• Reed is coming off of the 2011 high school tennis season with both the singles championship in the 7A West Conference and in the 7A state tournament. Opponents have to beware of his great serve and athleticism. His power game and court savvy make him a formidable opponent for anyone in conference and state. Churchill is best described as having “the total package who can beat you on the baseline or cut off the court with his serve and volley.”

JORDAN SHEPPARD - Bentonville High School

• Played doubles much of last year but could be moved to singles. Scouting report has him as a strong server, solid overall game, and a great competitive attitude. One opposition coach describes him as “a competitor that will fight for every point”.

JUSTIN POLLARD - Bentonville High School

• Justin comes in the 2012 high school tennis season with some questions that will need to be answered. He is coming off of an injury that has him missing his normal summer tennis routine. It could be a ‘wait and see’ approach as the BHS star starts the late August season. Justin played #2 singles for BHS last year but his injury could force the coaches to alter the line-up. Pollard is known for his ground strokes and keen angle of returns.

DYLAN DELUCA - Bentonville High School

• Dylan was the #1 singles player for BHS last year and was seeded as the #2 singles player in last year’s conference tournament. Bentonville coaches are praising his work ethic, leadership, and competitiveness. Sources describe him as having a fantastic summer with game improvement off the charts.

NATHAN STREET - Rogers High School

• #1 singles player for RHS last season. Don’t be fooled by Nathan’s quiet and shy nature. His opponents describe him as a composed, calculating competitor. Scouting report on Nathan mentions that when his serve and forehand is on, he can play with anybody in the state.

LUKE LUNDSTRUM - Fayetteville High School

• Luke is known for his quick reflexes, solid fundamentals, and the fact that he plays within his limits. Opponents respect him for his great cross-court forehand and his ability to put the ball away at the net. He played #1 doubles last year but his partner is no longer at FHS. His opponents are so high on him that they give him great kudos by stating “regardless of who is teamed with Luke, he will bring out the best in them”.

Possibilities for his doubles partner include Kiran Chakka, Ian McVinney, or Edward Zoa.

SMIR KAMATH - Fayetteville High School

•Possible new doubles partner for Luke Lundstrum but, if not, could be a #2 singles candidate. Known for his hard to hit flat returns and great placement shots.

HUNTER POOL - Bentonville High School

• Hunter Pool has evidently made some rapid improvements because the Bentonville coaches are really singing his praises. Hunter is a tall, athletic person that has a rocket for a first serve. Hunter could be a key cog in BHS plans for a repeat. Hunter gives the coaches a lot of options to shift other players to the most advantageous positions.

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By Marty Barnes

When 7A opposing coaches are asked to describe Rogers High School junior Tiffany Tang on the tennis court, the answers may vary but their meaning is still the same... dominating. You may hear them use descriptives such as: cool, calm, composed, graceful, smooth, and athletic. She is described as the total tennis package who moves on the court with incredible ease and elegance. According to Bentonville assistant coach Jill Eng, “Tiffany never gives you any physical or emotional read that she is not in control which can be very intimidating to her opponents.”

Head Bentonville tennis coach Nick Nersesian puts it more adamantly. “She is in a class by herself right now. The placement of her shots and the angle of her returns put her way ahead of the rest of the high school tennis players.

She is actually a human backboard, nothing gets by this girl.” Rogers tennis coach Matt Fulton describes his #1 tennis player as “an Arkansas high school version of Roger Federer. She is so smooth, but an incredibly humble person.”

In her high school tennis career, Tiffany has had no equal as she became the two time reigning conference and state singles champion and the two time state overall girls singles champion. Very shy and humble, Tiffany is a little uncomfortable talking about herself when asked about the strengths of her game, but this is by no means due to a lack of confidence. She explains her strengths as being consistent, solid in her ground strokes, and being mentally tough. “I do not want to give away many points which would help give my opponent any momentum. I want them to really have to work for all of their points.” Her inner confidence is more than likely a result of her practice habits. One 7A West coach recalls seeing her before astate tennis match out on the court practicing well ahead of her opponent. What caught his attention was not just the fact she was practicing but that she had set up cones on the court and was practicing angled shots that could produce winners during the upcoming match. She dominated the match as she appeared to be hitting those now imaginary cones. As the coach described it, “She completely frustrated her opponent with down-the-line winners mixed with cross court angle shots that you would not believe.”

Coach Fulton knows that as the summer draws to a close he does not have to worry about his #1 player reporting in great tennis shape. Tiffany improves her game in the summer by her strenuous three hour practices, five days a week. She also enters various summer tennis tournaments to challenge her skill level and to keep her recruiting name

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out there for Division 1 universities, one of her main goals.

What lies ahead for the ace of 7A girls tennis? The surprising rumor, which seems to now be very true, is that she will forego playing singles this year and concentrate on playing doubles with her freshman sister, Katherine. As to be expected, this has caused quite a buzz among the 7A West and 7A state coaches.

This move will force many of the tennis coaches to possibly switch their singles and doubles line-ups. As one experienced tennis coach put it, “The singles championship is going to be wide open as you will see quite a few coaches shy away from placing their really good players in the doubles knowing the doubles championship will have to go through the Tang sisters.”

Tiffany Tang

Rogers High School Junior Parents: Meng and Nga Tang Past Individual Accomplishments: 2-Time 7A West singles champion 2-Time 7A State singles champion 2-Time Overall State singles champion Winner of several regional and national singles tournaments Other Interests: Piano, swimming, volleyball, reading.

Favorite Quote: “Life is not measured by the number of breaths you take, but the number of moments that take your breath away.”

Player Profile

By Marty Barnes

Tennis in the 7A West and 7A state got really interesting this summer with the rumored move of Tiffany Tang from singles competition to doubles competition. What is all the excitement about? Tang has dominated the conference and state singles competition for the past two years. Her move to doubles will partner Tiffany with her talented freshman sister, Katherine. According to several 7A coaches, this move has left the door wide open for not only the conference team championship but also the state team title.

This move changes the dynamics of the singles competition but also complicates the doubles competition. Many coaches believe the pre-conference tournament matches will serve as the testing ground for how each team could adjust their line-ups to give them their best shot at either a higher state seeding or an even better chance at the conference team championship.

Coaches will be calculating the placement of their line-ups in singles and doubles to garner the most points possible. Why is this move of Tang garnering so much attention by the coaches? Last season’s championship of the 7A West girls conference tennis tournament ended up being shared by Rogers High School and Heritage High School. The tie for the championship was based on Tang’s dominating performance in singles being offset by Heritage’s domination by their #1 doubles team of Ravikumar/ Lundy. Both Ravikumar and Lundy are returning this

year to defend their conference and state doubles titles. Most 7A West coaches point to the doubles match between the Tang sisters vs. Ravikumar/ Lundy that could quite possibly decide the conference title. To add some spice to this mix, this match could pit the two Rogers high schools against each other in a showdown of possible winner-takeall for the conference team title. One would think this match will draw a substantial tennis crowd between the two rival high schools!

The ramifications of the Tang move will also scramble the points for the state team championship.

Last season’s state team championship came down to a three way tie with Rogers High School, Heritage High School, and Little Rock Central High School.

Other 7A coaches in the state believe the road to the state tennis championship is going through the singles matches. A coach in the other 7A conference made an interesting comment, “Rogers and Heritage will offset and take away points from each other in the doubles matches clearing the way for the team with the best depth in singles to slip in and steal the state championship.” It is obvious the 7A coaches have a great deal of work cut out for them in deciding the best way to position their players for a run at the 2012 state championship. One has to conclude that each point garnered could be the deciding point in a close championship race.

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Top Team Overviews Rogers High School

Coach Fulton’s team returns 9 of the 11 varsity players from last year’s conference co-champions and tristate champions. Throw in the two new freshman players, Katherine Tang and Olivia Montoya, and one can see why he is sporting a broad grin. He is looking for Tiffany Tang and Katherine Tang to man the #1 doubles team. Coach Fulton sees the Tang sisters as a natural combination team. The sisters have a natural bond and chemistry with each other, plus they have a lot of experience playing together in tournaments in the summer. Coach Fulton feels that depth is a key weapon for this team and does not see Tiffany’s move from singles to doubles as a detriment to the team’s chances of repeating.

KEY PLAYERS:

• Tiffany Tang - not much more can be written about the best girls tennis player in Arkansas.

• Katherine Tang - one of a couple of freshmen that Coach Fulton is relying on to solidify the point production on this team. Katherine is a great player, very athletic, and plays very strong for her age. Great shot maker and fierce competitor.

• Olivia Montoya - another incoming freshman with a lot of promise. Coach Fulton is undecided as to whether Olivia will play singles or doubles but loves the athleticism she brings to the court.

• Haleigh Long - made it to state last year in singles as a freshman. If Tiffany goes to doubles, look for Haleigh to move up to playing #1 singles.

• Kaitlin Rhodes - a senior who will probably play #2 singles this year. Coach Fulton describes Kaitlin as “a coach’s dream, a leader, and a very hard worker on the court.” Kaitlin is definitely one of the leaders on the team.

• Seniors Anusha Majagi and Kate Schmandt return as a doubles team. They were able to make it to state last year and look to take that experience to another level. With the Tang sisters manning the #1 doubles and the return of Majagi/ Schmandt at #2, Rogers High School looks primed to lock a lot of points in the doubles matches.

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Rogers Heritage High School

Coach Payne likes her team and her team’s chances at repeat titles in conference and state. Again, it appears that both Rogers teams have returning scoring depth in singles and doubles, plus the addition of a couple of key freshmen. Seniors Ravikumar and Lundy will anchor their positions as the #1 doubles team as well as provide the senior leadership for the younger players.

Junior Kaylee Hamilton appears to again have the #1 singles position. Additional points may be coming from Alye Darter and Kelly Torres, a pair of talented freshmen.

KEY PLAYERS:

• Senior Pratheepa Ravikumar - provides key leadership and experience as a conference and state champion in doubles. Great at a variety of shots. Knows how to play the opponent.

• Senior Ellen Lundy - one half of the defending state and conference championship doubles team.

Ellen plays great as a doubles teammate. She definitely knows how to set up the opponent and is a great complement to her partner’s abilities.

• Junior Kaylee Hamilton - got fourth place in conference last year and was eliminated in the quarterfinals of state. Coach Payne thinks Kaylee’s improvements since last year make her capable of picking up some much needed team points in singles.

• Freshman Alye Darter - she may be a freshman, but she brings a load of tournament experience to the court. Known for her strong and powerful play, Alye ranks #1 in the girls 14 division. Look for her to attempt to lock down some key points in singles.

• Freshman Kelly Torres - another freshman with a ton of tournament experience that eliminates the thought of her playing like a freshman. Kelly is known for her tactical approach to the game.

She is also very smooth and agile on the court.

BENTONVILLE High School

Coaches Nick Nersesian and Jill Eng are looking for this team to take some big steps forward and try to position themselves to accumulate some key points that might get lost in the shuffle by the opponents BHS boasts some key returners but is looking for some of the young and inexperienced players to step up after having the summer to improve.

Bentonville coaches will look to position their players in the best lineup spots to steal some key points.

If the single matches are where the points are, they will adjust the lineup, but do not count out the improvement and experience of their doubles teams.

KEY PLAYERS:

• Sophomore Mallory Tabler returns to one of the experienced doubles teams. With Tang’s move to doubles, the conference will be loaded with experienced doubles teams. Any points in doubles will be pivotal. The big question here will be if Tabler stays in doubles or jumps to singles to help her team win a possible championship.

Fayetteville High School

The Lady Bulldogs bring to the conference table two very athletic and strong players in Maddie Beck and Sydney Trumbo. While the other top three conference teams are boasting about the quality of their doubles teams, Fayetteville may be the most logical team to exploit the points available in singles. The big question lies in the development of their doubles team. Rumor has it that FHS has a pretty talented freshmen group in theworks.

KEY PLAYERS:

• Sydney Trumbo returns to lock down the #1 singles for the Lady Bulldogs this year. If Tang is definitely playing only doubles, Trumbo could be battling Heritage’s Hamilton for the top singles player in the conference.

• Maddie Beck is another singles player primed to make her move to the top of the singles ladder.

Trumbo and Beck could really wreak some havoc with the points they could accumulate in singles.

• Kendra Dinsomore, another talented sophomore, looks to team up again with her partner from last year, Mallory Tabler. The team was the state doubles runnersup last year and to split them up this year after last year’s accomplishment would be hard but not impossible.

• Caroline Koonce returns for her senior year and could assume the #1 singles for BHS. Coaches have been impressed with her work ethic and improvement.

• Michelle Moore has waited and worked her way into the coaches’ hearts and minds. She could be asked to fill a high ranked singles position.

• Kruti Shah is a talented freshman that really fill a valuable singles slot and garner important team points. Coaches have talking very highly of this freshman, one group of freshmen that have caught their

could some been of a eyes.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: Mark your calendar for the conference tennis tournament at the new tennis courts at Fayetteville High School on October 9th and 10th. This tournament promises to be one of the closest and most exciting championships to date. The doubles tournament should be quite a competitive show with rivals against rivals and the championship on the line in every match.

Can’t wait!!!

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Bentonville cruised to its third consecutive state title last fall by scoring 19 points in the state meet. Fayetteville placed a distant third with 106 points, and Rogers, Springdale HarBer, and Rogers Heritage placed fifth, sixth, and seventh respectively. Springdale placed ninth.

top teams in both Arkansas and adjacent states. “We are looking to develop some depth and toughness to

Bentonville looks to make a repeat performance in 2012, but perennial conference contenders Fayetteville and Rogers will provide stiff competition this fall.

compete with some strong in-state and out-of-state teams,” Ramaker says.

Conference Outlook 1. Bentonville

Bentonville dominated not just their conference, but the state in 2011. They placed third in a national meet and didn’t get beat by an Arkansas team on the way to a state championship.

The boys team gears up to make another run at the state title in 2012 with a solid group of returners.

“We have a lot of experience,” coach Randy Ramaker says. “We have several good returners, and that leads to consistency and discipline, which is huge in our sport. We know what it takes to win.”

2. Fayetteville

The Bulldogs placed third last season at the state tournament but graduate leading runner Soloman Simpson. They look to have a great season after making great strides in their game over the summer.

3. Rogers

The Rogers Mountaineers plan to give the Tigers stiff competition this fall after placing fifth in the state in 2011. “We were a young team with one graduating senior,” head coach Carl Efurd said. “We ran four freshman at state.”

Senior Andrew Simpson returns at the Mountaineers’ top runner, but Rogers benefits from a strong sophomore class led by Christian Liddell and bolstered by Taylor Brant, Ian Smith, Paul Torres, and Jake Mankin.

4. Springdale Har-Ber

Jacob Shiohira, Hector Ramos, Austin Hunt, and Alex Battaglia return to lead the Tigers. “All four of them finished in the top twenty last year and have improved this summer,” Ramaker says.

The Wildcats are coming off their best finish in school history after finishing second in the conference meet last year. “We return a great core group of runners,” coach Brett Unger says.

Ramaker has geared his team to compete with the

Senior Dino Andrade returns as a captain for the team

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and one of the best runners in the state. “He’s just a great kid and a great runner,” Unger says. Senior Dallin Fawcett is another captain that will help lead the team. “He’s a very good runner,” Unger says of Fawcett. “We’re led by those two.”

Chris Sandobal is another impact runner to watch.

Austin Fox and Ricky Jones are basketball players that will contribute to the team this fall.

6-8. Springdale, Van Buren, Siloam Springs

The Wildcats, Pointers, Panthers, and Bulldogs compete for the fifth place spot after improving in the offseason.

“All of these guys have had a great summer and we’re ready to roll,” the coach says. “We’re really excited about the season.”

5.Rogers Heritage

The Rogers Heritage War Eagles placed eighth in state last year, and look to build on that season with three key returning starters. Senior runners Bryce Roth and Shawn Hamidullah lead the War Eagles this fall. Junior Woodrow Murray returns from last year also. Head coach Jeff Shaw sees senior Drew Rogers as the squad’s most improved runner.

“I would certainly expect our team to improve on last year’s eighth place finish in state,” Shaw says.

“We have a much more cohesive team. We have a young group of men who work hard and listen to their coaches.”

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By John Post Cross country is a sport that challenges its participants both mentally and physically, maybe more than any other sport. But it’s also a sport that defines its runners.

Sophomore Jacob Shiohira understands this, and he has already defined himself as a tenacious worker who loves the sport.

“It’s you – you get out what you put in,” he says. “It takes a lot of dedication, and not everyone can run at the level you’d like to.”

“I have a lot of dedication, and I like to work hard,” he adds. “I don’t take any day for granted, whether it’s an easy day or a workout. I like to go out and try my best and get better every day.”

In his short time as a high school runner, Jacob has already established himself as a top runner for the Bentonville Tigers cross country squad, a squad which has won three consecutive state titles going into the 2012 season.

Despite being a disciplined worker, Jacob found himself naturally talented at running. “I played soccer growing up, and I noticed that I could run a little bit longer and a little bit longer than

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most of the guys on the team,” he says. “And in seventh grade, I just ended up going out for the cross country team.”

He won every meet they attended that year save for one.

“He’s naturally gifted,” his coach Randy Ramaker says. “He’s got good speed, and he likes running.”

Ramaker sums up Jacob’s personality succinctly.

“He’s a goal-oriented, competitive person,” the coach continues. “He’s relatively quiet, but he’s

Jacob Shiohira

Bentonville High School Senior Parents: Bill and Deb Shiohira Past Individual Accomplishments: -Placed 2nd in 2011 Conference Meet -Placed 5th at the State Championship Meet -Placed 22nd in the Nike Cross Nationals South Regional Other Interests: Music, playing sand volleyball, hanging out with friends Favorite Quotes: ““Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.”

Player Profile

competitive.”

Jacob agrees for the most part with his coach’s assessment. “When it comes to running, I do become a little quiet, but it’s because I’m focused and I want to do well for the team,” he says. “I am very competitive, no matter whether it’s running or a sport like ping pong or sand volleyball – I just have that competitive edge, and I think it helps me be a better runner.

I’m quiet sometimes, but I open up around my friends.”

Jacob looks up to his mother, who has always provided support for Jacob. “She’s someone I admire, and she’s always there for me,” he says.

“Anything I need, she’s there.

And I love her a lot.” He cites Galen Rupp, who recently won a silver for the United States in the Men’s 10,000 meters at the 2012 Olympics, as a professional role model.

Jacob helps lead a Tigers squad that has won the past three state championships, but he feels

little pressure in continuing to forge the Tigers’ legacy, as he understands that his hard work will pay off. “There’s some pressure, I guess, but not a lot,” he says. “I mean, we put in the work, so we’re pretty confident. Our coaches are really good and supportive, and the team is pretty close.”

In 2012, Jacob would like to bring yet another state title back to Bentonville, in addition to placing first in the state meet individually. He would also like to place in the top five at this year’s Nike Cross South Regional, which would earn him an invitation to run at the National Meet.

It will be a while before Jacob graduates, but he would like to continue running in college if he’s given the opportunity.

With the success he’s seen in the sport, coupled with his work ethic and drive to get better, there’s nowhere for Jacob to go but up.

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By Marty Barnes

Focused, highly competitive, totally composed, meticulous and calculating, organized and responsible in her endeavors, modest in her actions and appearance, genuine, respectful, and polite. These are all adjectives that can be used to describe Maggie Montoya. The 5’4” Rogers High School senior has used the last three years to race into the Rogers High School and Arkansas record books in girls cross country and girls track. She can arguably be called one of the best, if not the best, female distance runners in the state’s history. Last year, she led the Lady Mounties to the state cross

country title, winning the individual championship by almost a minute over her closest competitor. Her accomplishment gained her the nationally acclaimed title of Gatorade’s Arkansas Girls Cross Country Runner of the Year. Some athletes would relax and boast of their success but, Maggie Montoya is not just any athlete. Last spring she added to her already impressive accomplishments by winning the state track meet in the 800, 1,600, and 3,200 running events. Think that is impressive? Then consider that she had accomplished the same track success the previous year. Some say her driving force in her junior year was the fact that she did not win the state individual cross country championship her sophomore year. This sweet appearing girl is quite possibly the most fiercely competitive athlete one could run up against! Coach Carlton Efurd, a cross country legend in his own right, has been quoted as saying “Maggie Montoya is the best athlete, male or

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Maggie Montoya

Rogers High School Senior Parents: David and Debbie Montoya Past Individual Accomplishments: 2011 Gatorade Arkansas Girls Cross Country Runner of the Year 2011 State Cross Country Champion Two time state champion in the following track events: 800, 1600, 3200 Other Interests: Hiking, biking, swimming.

Favorite Quotes: “No regrets.”

“I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.”

Philippians 4:13

Player Profile female, that I have ever coached in my twenty-five year career.”

All of Maggie’s track and cross country records may be dwarfed by Maggie Montoya the person. People who know Maggie away from the athletic venue find her very personable and downto-earth. Her modesty and politeness make her one of the most respected students on campus. Away from cross country or track you will never hear her boast of her accomplishments, but more than likely see her focused on her class work. If you think she is competitive in athletics, try giving her a test in the classroom. If she misses any questions, she will either look up the correct answer or ask the teacher whether there was a mistake in the scoring key. 100% would be a good description of Maggie Montoya and very reflective of one of her favorite quotes, “leave no regrets”.

According to an earlier interview with Coach Efurd, there is no mistaking why Maggie is successful.

In Efurd’s words, “she trains like a champion”. Maggie leaves no stone unturned. Her race preparation started this summer. Her summer training routine includes triathlons, which have made her stronger.

She also puts in a lot of mileage but as she puts it, “I am very aware of my body and I listen to my body during the training workouts, after the workouts, etc.”

The et cetera includes her meticulous planning of her food and fluid intake. She will be the first to tell you that she has been relatively injury free and she leaves no doubt that her nutrition has played a big part in that phase of her training. Likewise, her awareness of her body’s responses to her running lets her know her training limits. She will tell you quickly that when she trains she trains hard but she does not over-train and risk “overuse injuries”.

Maggie has a very interesting philosophy

when it comes to competition. She is well aware that to some she has a target on her back. At every race, her competitors know she is the athlete to beat. To Maggie, however, this has no part in her focus and race preparation. She is going to trust her training for the race, the race strategy that she and her coaches have discussed, and trust her faith in herself. “I am focused on the race and realize I have trained for this race so all I have to do now is just run the race”. She also has an interesting spin on running in inclement weather or on difficult courses. “ In such situations I really love it. All those things are in my favor because those conditions are going to be faced by all the competitors. To me, they are just obstacles that make me want to compete harder and show myself what I can do in the worst situations. It really brings out my competitive nature.” I am sure those are not encouraging words to her opponents.

With all her success, what does she see as her future goals? Maggie wants to repeat as the individual conference and state cross country champion and help lead the Lady Mounties to another state title. She also wants to repeat her track success in the 800, 1,600, and 3,200 events which would put her in the record books for a triple crown in all three events three years in a row. She wants to run a 4:50 mile or lower and run in the lower 10’s in the 3,200. Her plans are to try to get a track and cross country scholarship to a Division I university (no problem there, she is already being recruited by some of the best Division I universities).

She also plans to major, not surprisingly, in nutrition.

Maggie Montoya is not only at the top of the class of female cross country runners but is also in a class by herself in life. There is no doubt she will leave “no regrets” this season.

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By Marty Barnes

Last year’s girls cross country season was a triangular battle among Bentonville, Heritage, and Rogers. According to most of the 7A West coaches, not much will change this season. Bentonville girls won the 7A West conference meet last year and looked primed to take the state title. Evidently, Coach Efurd and Coach Shaw must have pulled off some motivational mojo with the Rogers and Heritage girls as the Rogers schools prepped for the state meet.

Rogers and Heritage ran well at the conference meet, but some of the placement points they were relying on in the mid-pack were dispersed and not in their favor. The state meet would have much different results. Naturally, Rogers High School got a big boost with Maggie Montoya taking the individual championship by running the 5k race with a time of 19 minutes and 12 seconds. Maggie’s nearly legendary status was given an even bigger boost as she won over her nearest competitor (the previous year’s state champion Valerie Reina of HarBer) by

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close to a minute. The biggest deciding factor in the state meet was the placement of points by the runners of Heritage and Rogers in the pack. Rogers High School’s 46 points secured them the state championship, followed by Heritage’s gutsy 62 point state meet performance. Bentonville placed third with 72 points, and Fayetteville settled for a distant fourth place with 115 points.

The closeness of last season’s conference race followed by the turnaround performances in the state meet have a lot of cross country coaches believing the titles to conference and state will again go through the “Big 3” (Heritage, Bentonville, and Rogers). Bentonville may have been hit the hardest by last year’s graduation with the loss of Kelsey Wheelhouse (All-State), Lauren Addison, Marla Vasque, and Morgan Morton. Rogers High School returns one of the best cross country runners of all time in Maggie Montoya. Some coaches believe Montoya may have to challenge herself in most of the races as there appears to be no one in sight to challenge her. Coach Efurd’s main concern could be in developing the back pack runners and have them step up to secure some valuable points. Coach Shaw’s job at Heritage (which, by the way, has been nothing short of miraculous in starting the program after the Rogers school district split into two high schools) will be to take a still relatively young team and convince them that they can run with anyone.

Heritage will be led by a seasoned junior class and a potentially talented sophomore class. According to most of the conference coaches, Heritage’s depth in the mid and back pack makes them very dangerous.

The road to the conference championship may just be the mid pack points.

The state cross country title may have a whole different picture than last year. Sure, Rogers High School will get their Maggie Montoya points, but the big question will be in what happens after that. Bentonville’s inexperienced runners will have to mature by the state meet to be a factor, and Heritage will have to be concerned with the points in the pack being possibly dispersed to other schools.

The Central Conference has some potential schools that could step into the mid pack points and steal the title or at least determine the champion. It will be interesting to watch the teams from Cabot, Mount St. Mary’s, Bryant, and even Conway as the season develops and see if they can break up the “Big 3’s” run at another title. As one experienced 7A West

coach put it, “The statewide picture will clear by mid October. At that time we will see who has improved and see which newcomers are going to battle for the position points.”

Summary of Coaches Poll #1 & #2 - Tight call, but it appears the top two teams will come from the Rogers School District, either Rogers High School or Heritage High School.

Rogers High School

The reigning state champion returns the state’s top cross country runner, Maggie Montoya. Montoya has always been relatively injury free and is set to have a record setting season. Coach Efurd is extremely pleased with the improvement of Lauren Harrell and feels she is showing a lot of promise. Solid in the pack is Jordan Maas and Eden Randolph and the pack could produce the key separation points for the championship. Sydney Dorch has been slowed by ankle surgery. Coach Efurd needs to have a productive fall from Claudia Cichy, Ariana Munoz, Kat George, and talented freshman Lisa Lauschky.

Heritage High School

Coach Shaw’s team is coming off of a state runner-up finish last year. True, Heritage is relatively young as far as age goes but they are “seasoned experienced”.

That aged “youth” may be an advantage to Coach Shaw as he prepares them for the championships in late October and early November. As their confidence grows, this team has a lot of coaches concerned for not only this year but of things to come. Heritage will be led by juniors Deirdre Sheets and Hannah Owen plus sophomore Kelsey Brown. All three of these young ladies were part of Heritage’s run last year. Another key runner that is garnering Coach Shaw’s praises is sophomore Imelda Rios. Coach Shaw calls Imelda his most improved runner. Coach Shaw also feels he has some really promising sophomores and freshmen that he is counting on to step up and compete. No doubt, Heritage girls are on the move and buying into building a championship tradition.

Bentonville gets the nod at #3 but do not count them out just yet for the race to the conference championship.

They may be inexperienced, but as the old saying goes, “tradition never graduates”.

Bentonville High School

Coach Ramaker lost some key members off the conference championship team of a year ago. No doubt, he has to have his returning veterans competing as their highest level plus have some of his younger runners step up to the challenge. Bentonville’s top returners are Morgan Spychalski and Bethany King.

Both veterans may have to put this team on their back while Coach Ramaker does hisspecialty work of developing young runners. Look for Coach Ramaker to have this team ready by late October and, if that is the case, nothing can be ruled out.

Fayetteville High School

Fayetteville gets that #4 vote. FHS could be improved but not ready for the Big 3 this year. What Fayetteville could really do is serve as a spoiler by stealing pack points that any of the Big 3 schools might be relying on.

Springdale High School & Springdale Har-Ber High School

#5 & #6 goes to the winner of the Battle of Springdale - HarBer and Springdale High School should duke it out for fifth and sixth place.

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Conference Outlook Conway took home the state title last season, but the 7A West had a solid showing, with Bentonville and Fayetteville placing second and third, respectively.

Those two squads return as the teams to beat in 2012, along with a talented Rogers Mountaineers team.

1. Fayetteville

The Bulldogs placed third in state last season and return poised to win the conference in 2012.

Fayetteville will be young but deep this season, and coach Scott Williams will rely on his upperclassmen to get the job done this fall. “I put a lot of weight on our seniors,” he says.

Four of the five top players for Fayetteville return this year. Senior Sam Hudson leads the team and has been a part of the program since ninth grade.

“He’s been a big part of why we’ve gotten better,” Williams says. “His strength is course management.

He doesn’t get himself in a whole lot of trouble.”

Davis Trice excels at the short game. “He is great at putting and chipping, and is a straight-ball hitter,” the coach says. “That makes him capable of keeping his scores low.”

Juniors Thatcher Radler, Mason Adams, and Luke Renner all placed high in the state tournament last year.

2. Bentonville

All-state selections Brik Brauberger and Austin Morey graduated after the Tigers placed second in the state tournament in 2011. Seniors Jayson Jeffrey and Jack Robertson step into the shoes left

by Brauberger and Morey. “Having them in the top two spots helps,” coach Kent Early says. “They have a great knowledge of the game, and they have great course management. They understand their abilities, and they play to them.”

Sophomore Wade Schaller is a youngster who will contribute this season for the Tigers. “He’s cool, calm, and knows the game,” Early says. “He’s a very collected individual, and that’s what you really need in golf.”

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3. Rogers

The Rogers Mountaineers enjoyed a solid conference showing that saw many of their inexperienced players challenged in the state tournament. “We won the majority of our conference matches,” coach Marcus Alexander says. “But our depth came from young players that were challenged at postseason play.”

The Mounties enjoy a junior-laden class, but two standout seniors lead the team this fall. Alexander says Trevor Barton has stepped up this year and shown exemplary leadership skills. “He has great course management and he hits the ball really well,” the coach says.

Senior Clayton Harman is another leader on the team who is a straight ball hitter. “He is learning to manage his game,” Alexander says. “He brings a confidence to the team, and he really helps young players develop their game.”

Mason Brodie and Andrew Kelley are short-game specialists for Rogers.

4. Springdale Har-Ber

Springdale Har-Ber looks to be a solid contender with the top three this fall. Junior Conner Neil tied for medalist honors in a four-team match in early August and will make an impact for the Wildcats this fall.

5-8. Siloam Springs, Springdale, Van Buren, Rogers Heritage

The fifth spot is a toss-up between these four teams.

Siloam Springs and Van Buren compete for the first time in the tough 7A West, and could go through some growing pains the first season. Both Springdale and Rogers Heritage have worked hard in the offseason and return focused and optimistic about the upcoming year.

By John Post After solid showings in a host of tournaments this summer, Sam Hudson is ready to compete as one of the top golfers in the state. He enters his senior year as one of the leaders on a Fayetteville Bulldog golf team that is projected to be one of the top teams in the state.

If you think there’s a lot of pressure that accompanies such a position, you’d be right. But Sam thrives both under pressure and from the challenge of the game.

“Golf is a sport that’s always pushing you, and it’s always changing,” he says. “It tests me both mentally and physically. It challenges you in every single way.

It’s an individual sport, so it’s all on you, and I think that helps me personally to be a better golfer.”

Sam’s had plenty of time to hone his skills, as he began playing at the age of three. “It was a sport that my family has been playing forever. My grandfather played, my dad played, and my brother was a really good junior golfer,” he says. “Golf is what my dad wanted to teach me, and he just kind of raised us to play it.”

When asked about his strengths as a golfer, Fayetteville head coach Scott Williams is quick to respond: “Sam’s strength is course management,” he says. “He doesn’t get himself in a whole lot of trouble.”

“My golf teacher says that you have about five to seven seconds to think about a bad shot, what happened, and get over it,” Sam says. “And I try to think about that whenever I’m playing. If you can’t get over a shot, it messes with you throughout the entire round, and you just need to learn to move on and realize that there’s more golf to be played and that you can always get it back.”

Golf is about restraining emotions – and Sam couples his skill set with an easygoing attitude that reigns in his emotions. “You can tell when I’m happy, and you can

tell when I’m a little bit mad, but I don’t get angry,” he says.

“I would say I’m very laid back. I don’t really get stressed over things.”

Sam wants to maintain a 4.0 GPA this semester, and perhaps even get a higher GPA, since he is taking AP courses.

He has a simple goal for himself this season: consistency.

“I just want to have a really consistent season,” he says. It’s a smart goal, and one that characterizes Sam perfectly: for both he and his smart playing style, consistency has always been one of his strengths, and this fall should be no different.

Sam Hudon

Fayetteville High School Senior Parents: Read and Tammy Hudson Past Individual Accomplishments: -Ranked 26th in ASGA’s Junior Boys Rankings -Placed 6th in the 2012 Greater Little Rock Junior Championship -Placed 22nd in the KPMG Stacy Lewis Junior Open Other Interests: Being outdoors, spending time with family Favorite Quotes: “You must be the change you want to be in the world”

Player Profile AR Sports NWA Football Preview 2012 • Pg. 77

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Conference Outlook The 7A golf season ended in predictable fashion, with Fayetteville posting a score of 457, good enough for its seventh consecutive state title. Rogers represented the 7A West as well with a fourth-place finish.

1. Fayetteville

The Lady Bulldogs return as the heavy favorite after nearly a decade of dominance, both statewide and in their conferece. “They’ve been around a winning program,” coach Scott Williams says. “We feel like we have the talent to do it again, but we’ll have to work hard at it. We’re not as deep as we have been in the past.”

Sophomore Anna Grace Lavy leads the Lady Bulldogs as the best girl golfer in the 7A West. She earned all-state honors last season. Sophomores Reagan Gates and Mackenzie Kley help lead the young squad.

Williams says junior Allison Head is the most improved golfer on the team. “We’re really counting on her to pitch in,” the coach says. “And I know she will because she’s improved tremendously.”

2. Rogers

The Mountaineers finished the season by placing three underclassmen as their lowest scorers in the state tournament. “That gives us something to look forward to this year,” coach Brenda Alexander says.

Junior Abbie Parker, senior Morgan Conway, and sophomore Taylor Erickson all participated in several tournaments over the summer, and enter the season focused on competing for the conference and state championships. Parker is one of the longest drivers on the team.

“These young ladies are willing to put in the time and effort to become better,” the coach says. “The competition that we have during practices and matches should make us better.” Several of the younger players, however, lack valuable tournament experience.

3. Har-Ber

Two solid golfers helped lead the Lady Wildcats in 2011, “but we struggled to get a good third score to go with them,” coach Tim Aynes says.

Freshman JoAnna Keck has medaled in two tournaments this summer. “She’s been really impressive,” Aynes says. “She’s got a lot of potential to be a top-notch golfer.” Stephanie Wedding moved from Shiloah Christian, where she averaged a score of just under 100 strokes. Molly Luster has made improvements over the offseason.

“Three solid scorers give us a good chance to be competitive,” the coach says. “We think placing top three in the conference is a realistic goal.”

4. Bentonville

The Lady Tigers lost only one regular season match in conference last season, which came at the hands of Fayetteville. “We look forward to another great year,” head coach Lindsey Davis says. “We have high hopes of competing at a higher level in the state tournament.”

Bentonville’s top golfers include seniors Brooke Rodney and Candace Gerads, juniors Lauren Badeen, Hannah Ward, and Emma Kincey, and sophomores Hanna Braburger, McKinzie Dixon, and Taytem Billington.

Coach Davis is also excited about incoming freshman Katie McCloskey, who Davis expects will play.

Brauburger is young but her well-rounded skills coupled with her consistency make her one of the Lady Tigers’ most valuable golfers. Dixon is the best putter on the team, and Kinsey is the best driver.

“Our goal this season is to win most regular season matches and finish in the top two in the state tournament,” Davis says.

5-8. Van Buren, Siloam Springs, Springdale, Rogers Heritage – The Lady Pointers, Lady Panthers, Lady Bulldogs, and Lady War Eagles will battle it out for the fifth spot in 2012 with four competitive squads that have made great strides in the offseason.

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By John Post

They say that golf is ninety-percent mental, and for Anna-Grace Lavy, that’s a good thing. The sophomore golfer approaches golf with the same optimism she brings towards life.

“For me, the sport is about bettering my attitude on the course,” she says. “I just like how you have to fight through a bad hole, and no matter how many more holes you have left, you just have to keep going.”

“If I’m playing with an opponent who is beating me, I try not to think about catching up and beating them, or coming back from a bad hole,” she continues. “I just think about playing each hole and playing the golf course as best as I can. Even the greatest golfers have more bad times than good, so I have to keep in mind that you will learn lessons through the bad shots and rounds. And that will help me compose myself when I’m in another round if I’m playing bad.”

It’s this sort of attitude that has helped Anna-Grace establish herself one of the top golfers in the state as a freshman, and enters this fall as a sophomore for the Lady Bulldogs. She placed fourth individually in the state tournament last fall, in addition to placing third in the 2012 Bubba Conley National Junior Golf Tournament. In 2011, she won the Individual ASGA Title.

Nearly all of Anna-Grace’s family has played golf – she’s the youngest of four sisters, all of who played, and her father played also – but she knows that talent is nothing without hard work.

“I have a natural love for the sport, but I have to work very hard,” she says. “It doesn’t come incredibly easy. I have to work every day at it.”

When asked if she feels pressure following up her

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three sisters – Emma and Olivia both currently play golf at the University of Arkansas, and helped build a winning culture at Fayetteville High School that has resulted in seven consecutive state titles – she gives a characteristically optimistic answer: “Some people would call what I feel pressure,” she says. “But I just take that pressure and turn it into hard work and turn it into excitement about what I can accomplish, because I loved watching them doing it.

“That’s me – I just take the pressure and the nerves that I feel and just work as hard as I can at practice,” she adds.

It’s no surprise that Anna-Grace is as ambitious and striving to make even more improvements this fall. “I love looking at what great players have done before me and what they’ve accomplished, and thinking that I can do the same things they have,” she says.

“Setting goals high is something I’ve always done, because it feels so good when you reach those goals.”

Her sights are set predictably high for her sophomore season – she wants to bring home an eighthconsecutive state championship to Fayetteville. “I know we can do it. We’ve all been working really hard,” she says. “I know my coaches have really high goals for this season, and I really think they can work us and push us far enough to get to a state title.”

She cites Tiger Woods as her favorite golfer. “I grew up watching him,” she says. “I watch videos of his swing and just how fluid it is.”

Even though she is young, Anna-Grace would like to continue her golfing career in college. While she doesn’t know where she would like to attend, she would like to major in business, as her father is a businessman. She is also interested in law

and political science.

Anna-Grace is looking forward to having a successful 2012 season, and she’ll do it knowing that every obstacle she faces will only make her stronger, whether it be on the golf course or off it. She is an encouragement to everyone – whether they be athletes or not – to work hard to achieve their goals. “I really think that you can do what you want as long as you put the time and effort into practicing and working up to whatever that goal is for you,” she says.

Anna-Grace Lavy

Fayetteville High School Sophomore Parents: Trevor and Kellie Lavy Past Individual Accomplishments: -Placed 4th in the Individual State Tournament -Placed 3rd in the 2012 Bubba Conley National Junior Golf Tournament -Won 2011 Individual ASGA Title Other Interests: Church, Fishing Favorite Quotes: “So many gave so little to the one who gave it all.”

Player Profile

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