ipt high school kickoff coverage 2011

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IPT HIGH SCHOOL KICKOFF COVERAGE 2011

READY TO RUN

SKYVIEW’S TANNER ROBISON, VALLIVUE’S MIKE BURK AND NAMPA’S DEVAN LESLEY ARE READY TO RUN.

Friday, August 26, 2011 High School Football A2

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A3 High School Football Friday, August 26, 2011

Coaches polls..............................4 2010 standings...........................4Boise Braves...............................5Borah Lions................................5 Capital Eagles.............................5 Timberline Wolves......................5Vallivue Falcons..........................6 Centennial Patriots.....................7Eagle Mustangs..........................8

Meridian Warriors.......................9Mountain View Mavericks.........10Rocky Mountain Grizzlies.........11Caldwell Cougars......................12Columbia Wildcats....................13Bishop Kelly Knights.................14Emmett Huskies.......................15Kuna Kavemen.........................16Middleton Vikings....................18

Mountain Home Tigers.............19Nampa Bulldogs.......................20Skyview Hawks........................21Fruitland Grizzlies.....................22Payette Pirates.........................22Weiser Wolverines...................22Cole Valley Chargers................22McCall-Donnelly Vandals..........22Parma Panthers........................23

Homedale Trojans.....................24Marsing Huskies.......................25Melba Mustangs.......................26Nampa Christian Trojans...........27New Plymouth Pilgrims............28Greenleaf Grizzlies....................29Notus Pirates............................30Wilder Wildcats........................31

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For the latest news all season long, read our high school content online at idahopress.com/sports and check out our high school content at idahopress.com/sports/highschool/.

Make sure to view the work of John Wustrow and Bruce Mason on our school sports blog for new information all season long.

You can also find the Idaho Press-Tribune on Facebook.

ONLINEREACH IPT SPORTS DESKPhone: (208) 465-8111 • e-mail: [email protected] • Fax: (208) 467-9562

John WustrowAssistant sports editor(208) [email protected]

Contact prep reporters

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To submit information to the sports listings and/or Community Corner, email [email protected]. Community Corner runs in Monday editions of the paper.

ON THE COVERINSIDE

Three of the top running backs in the Treasure Valley return this season: Nampa High’s Devan Lesley, right; Vallivue’s Mike Burk, lower right; and Skyview’s Tanner Robison, below. Photos by Charlie Litchfield/IPT


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5A Southern Idaho Conference2010 StandingsDivision 1 Conf. OverallCapital 5-0 10-1Eagle 4-1 7-3MountainView 3-2 4-5Borah 2-3 3-5Meridian 1-4 2-6Caldwell 0-5 0-10

Division II Conf. OverallRockyMountain 4-0 9-2Centennial 3-1 9-3Vallivue 2-2 5-5Boise 1-3 1-7Timberline 0-4 1-7

2011 Preseason Coaches PollsTeam First-place Votes1.EagleMustangs 5 752.CapitalEagles 1 673.CentennialPatriots 1 554.MountainViewMavericks - 535.BorahLions 1 516.RockyMountainGrizzlies - 477.MeridianWarriors - 318.VallivueFalcons - 299.BoiseBraves - 1810.TimberlineWolves - 14

Note:8-of-10coachesvoted

DISTRICT III CONFERENCES: COACHES POLLS/2010 STANDINGS4A Southern Idaho Conference2010 Standings Conf. OverallBishopKelly 7-0 12-0Skyview 6-1 8-3Middleton 4-3 5-5Nampa 4-3 5-4Emmett 3-4 4-5MountainHome 2-5 3-6Columbia 2-5 3-6Kuna 0-7 1-8

2011 Preseason Coaches PollsTeam First-place Votes1.Skyview 5 522.BishopKelly 1 463.Middleton - 444.Nampa - 365.Columbia - 276.MountainHome - 207.Emmett - 178.Caldwell - 149.Kuna - 11


3A Snake River Valley2010 Standings Conf. OverallFruitland 4-0 12-0Weiser 3-1 7-4Homedale 2-2 6-3Parma 1-3 5-4Payette 0-4 2-6

2011 Preseason Coaches PollsTeam (1st) Votes1.Fruitland(4.5) 24.52.Weiser(.5) 19.53.Homedale 134.Payette 115.Parma 7

Note:Allfivecoachesvoted

EMENT

2A Western Idaho Conference2010 Standings Conf. OverallNewPlymouth 5-0 9-2NampaChristian 4-1 6-4McCall-Donnelly 3-2 4-4Marsing 2-3 3-6ColeValley 1-4 1-7Melba 0-5 0-8

2011 Preseason Coaches PollsTeam First-place Votes1.Marsing 4 292.McCall-Donnelly 1 243.NampaChristian - 194.NewPlymouth - 175.ColeValleyChristian - 96.Melba - 7


1A District III Division I2010 Standings Conf. OverallNotus 6-0 9-1Rimrock 4-1 4-4IdahoCity 4-2 4-4Wilder 3-3 4-4Cascade 2-3 3-4HorseshoeBend 1-5 3-5Greenleaf 0-6 0-7

2011 Preseason Coaches PollsTeam First-place Votes1.Rimrock 4 372.Wilder 2 323.Cascade - 284.Notus - 245.HorseshoeBend - 225.IdahoCity - 227.Greenleaf - 7


1A District III Division II2010 Standings Conf. OverallSalmonRiver 4-0 9-2GardenValley 3-1 10-2Tri-Valley 1-3 2-6Council 1-3 3-6MeadowsValley 1-3 1-7

5A SIC FAST FACTS: Gonearethedivisionsinthe5ASouthernIdahoConferencethisseason.ThechangecameafterCaldwellreturnedtothe4ASICafterspendingfouryearscompetingattheClass5Alevel.The5ASICisnowleftwith10teams.

4A SIC FAST FACTS: FollowingBishopKelly’sstatechampionshiplastseason,coachLeeLeslieresignedandtheKnightshiredanotherstatechampionshipcoach:TimBrennan.BrennanreturnedtoBKafteroneseasonatCaldwell.See page 14


By IDAHO [email protected]

© 2011 Idaho Press-TribuneCapital High won four con-

secutive division championships in the 5A Southern Idaho Con-ference the past four season, and were a combined 38-7 over that span.

Coach Todd Simis said his team trailed less than a minute of actual game time — total —dur-ing the past two regular seasons. In 2009, Lewiston scored early on a long pass play and Borah took an early lead before Capital returned a kick for a touchdown last year.

“We take real pride in that and we have real good tradition at Capital. That’s rear view mir-ror stuff,” Simis said. “We like to tell our guys that we’re looking through the windshield, not the rear view mirror.”

Five players are currently on the Boise State football team: Nickel Corey Bell, receiver Geraldo (Hiwatt) Boldewijn, tight end Kyle

Efaw, defensive end Jarrell Root and tight end Kyle Sosnowski.

Yet, with the talented players and regular season results, the Simis-led Eagles have yet to win a state championship.

Capital lost in the state title game to Meridian in 2007 and Eagle in 2009. Last year, they went 10-0, then lost to Coeur d’Alene in the semifinals, 28-24.

“It’s a little frustrating,” Simis said. “I’d be lying if I said I don’t think about it and some of our fans and our players and coaches don’t think about it. The ends of our seasons have really been tough.”

Simis said the season-ending results have been a combination of his team making mistakes and their opponents making plays.

“There’s something to be said of repeated success, but it would be nice to finish one off.

“We don’t want to be the Buf-falo Bills of high school football.”

Capital returns three players

on its offensive line, the Eagles’ strength this season.

Senior center Kellen Buhr (6-1, 265) returns along side se-nior guards Hunter Nettles (right guard, 6-3, 290) and Paden Mun-son (right guard, 6-3, 295).

Nettles started for state run-ner-up Centennial last season.

Junior Steven Matlock (6-2, 265) is back at tackle after garner-ing first-team All-5A SIC honors as a sophomore in 2010.

Right tackle Brody Latham (se-nior, 6-5, 225) is a new starter, fill-ing in for senior Tyler Case (5-10, 235), who moved to the defensive line this season.

Senior tight end Paul Blakely (6-0, 210-215) is back and will also be the team’s place kicker and punter. He’s the team’s only re-turning skill position player.

Defensively, the Eagles return two players: senior lineman Mar-cus Tovar (5-10, 235) and senior outside linebacker Denis Popu-vnik (5-10, 205).

5A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: BOISE SCHOOLSSimis: ‘We don’t want to be the Buffalo Bills’

CAPITAL EAGLESSept. 1 at Centennial 7 p.m.Sept. 9 EAGLE 8:30 p.m.Sept. 16 MOUNTAIN VIEW 8:30 p.m.Sept. 23 at Vallivue 7 p.m.Sept. 29 TIMBERLINE 7 p.m. Oct. 6 at Rocky Mountain 7 p.m. Oct. 14 at Meridian 7 p.m.Oct. 21 BOISE 7 p.m.Oct. 28 BORAH 6 p.m.LAST YEAR: 10-1 overall, 5-0 5A SICPLAYOFFS: Lost to Coeur d’Alene in semis, 28-24

BORAH LIONSSept. 2 ROCKY MOUNTAIN 7 p.m.Sept. 8 CENTENNIAL 7 p.m.Sept. 16 at Meridian 7 p.m.Sept. 23 BOISE 7 p.m.Sept. 30 at Mountain View 7 p.m.Oct. 7 at Timberline 7 p.m.Oct. 13 EAGLE 7 p.m.Oct. 21 at Vallivue 7 p.m. Oct. 28 at Capital 6 p.m. LAST YEAR: 4-5 overall, 2-3 5A SICPLAYOFFS: Did not qualify

BOISE BRAVESSept. 1 MERIDIAN 7 p.m.Sept. 9 at Vallivue 7 p.m. Sept. 16 EAGLE 6 p.m. Sept. 23 at Borah 7 p.m.Sept. 30 ROCKY MOUNTAIN 7 p.m. Oct. 6 MOUNTAIN VIEW 7 p.m.Oct. 14 at Centennial 7 p.m.Oct. 21 at Capital 7 p.m.Oct. 28 TIMBERLINE 8:30 p.m.LAST YEAR: 1-8 overall, 1-3 5A SICPLAYOFFS: Did not qualify

TIMBERLINE WOLVESSept. 2 at Eagle 7 p.m.Sept. 9 ROCKY MOUNTAIN 6 p.m.Sept. 16 at Centennial 7 p.m. Sept. 22 MOUNTAIN VIEW 7 p.m.Sept. 29 at Capital 7 p.m.Oct. 7 BORAH 7 p.m.Oct. 14 VALLIVUE 7 p.m.Oct. 20 MERIDIAN 7 p.m. Oct. 28 at Boise 8:30 p.m.LAST YEAR: 1-8, 0-4 5A SICPLAYOFFS: Did not qualify


2010 RESULTSSept. 3 at Kuna W 49-0Sept. 10 at Borah W 48-34Sept. 17 CALDWELL W 56-7Sept. 24 vs. Boise (at BSU) W 50-21Oct. 1 TIMBERLINE W 54-27Oct. 8 COEUR D’ALENE L 37-20Oct. 15 at Centennial L 42-12Oct. 22 ROCKY MOUNTAIN L 49-7^ Oct. 29 at Eagle L 21-15* Nov. 5 vs. Capital (at BSU) L 40-0^ District Playoff Game* State Playoff Game

TEAM FACTSCOACH: Layne Coffin, 6th season, 32-16 LAST YEAR: 5-5, 2-2 5A SIC Division IPLAYOFFS: Lost to Capital in quarterfinals

OFFENSEVallivue led the conference in total offensive yards last season, despite ranking 10th out of 11 teams in passing. But coach Layne Coffin thinks the Falcons can be more bal-anced this year.Through two-a-days seniors Jamari Rogers and Evan Johnson were battling for the starting quarterback job.“We feel we’re really fortunate to have the guys that we have,” Coffin said.

DEFENSESix starters return on a defense, which Coffin will hand over to new defensive coordinator Tim Stanley.The Falcons will run out of a base-four front, which will change week-to-week, Coffin said.“He’s been a coach on some really good teams in Southeastern Idaho,” Coffin said about Stanley, who was last at Kuna. “I’ve known him for 20 years and for me, person-ally, he brings a whole lot of experience and knowledge, and you can’t beat that.”

Mike Burk, Sr., RB/LBBurk averaged 9.5 yards per carry to lead the con-ference in rushing during the regular season with 1,601 yards. Including district and state play-offs, he finished with 1,764 yards.

He spent the first six weeks of the offseason in a knee brace after suffering a slight tear in his right knee during the Falcons’ playoff loss to Capital.Burk was a second-team All-5A SIC selection last season.

Charlie Litchfield/IPT

Vallivue tailback Ringo Robinson rushed for 841 yards and seven touchdowns as a junior.

Ringo Robinson, Sr., RB/LBRobinson proved to be a reliable No. 2 running back a year ago, when he rushed for 841 yards and seven touchdowns. He was seventh in the league in rushing during

the regular season, earning honorable men-tion all-conference honors.

Jake Boyd, Sr., WR/DBA four-year varsity player, Boyd was a sec-ond team all-conference selection last year at both receiver and defen-sive back despite being injured the first few games.

He had 21 catches for 537 yards during the regular season, catching eight touchdown passes and also had three interceptions.“He’s just such a fluid type of athlete,” coach Layne Coffin said. “He’s got great skills. When he’s healthy, he’s pretty tough.”

David Teofilo, Sr., OL/DLTeofilo was an honorable mention all-confer-ence player, leading an offensive line which opened holes for the Falcons’ potent rushing attack. He’ll be a leader

on the line which Coffin said is even deeper this year.“(Seniors) know this is it,” Coffin said. “They’re going to get down and get to work and get focused. He’s been that.”The coach added that he thinks Teofilo is tal-ented enough to play somewhere in college.

Falcons aim for a run to the top

5A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: VALLIVUE FALCONSPLAYERS TO WATCH

2011 SCHEDULEOct. 26 at Caldwell 7 p.m.Sept. 2 at Mountain View 7 p.m.Sept. 9 BOISE 7 p.m.Sept. 16 at Rocky Mountain 7 p.m.Sept. 23 CAPITAL 7 p.m.Sept. 30 CENTENNIAL 7 p.m.Oct. 6 at Eagle 7 p.m.Oct. 15 vs. Timberline (at BSU) 7 p.m.Oct. 21 BORAH 7 p.m.Oct. 28 at Meridian 7 p.m.

By JOHN [email protected]

© 2011 Idaho Press-TribuneEarly on last season, it was

apparent that the success of the Vallivue offense would be in its running game.

The same should be true this year, the difference is now opponents have an idea who will be running the ball.

The 2010 season was a breakout year for Mike Burk and Ringo Robinson, who both finished as top 10 rush-ers in the 5A Southern Idaho Conference. Both are back for

their senior years, and along with junior Sean Davis provide the Falcons with a solid running at-tack to go along with a passing attack they hope to utilize more this season.

“I feel good about the guys we have,” coach Layne Coffin said. “We have Sean Davis and Ringo and Michael and

we have (receivers) Jake Boyd and Parker Garner coming back.”

Behind Burk, Robinson and the departed Dillon Danos, Vallivue rushed for more than 3,503 yards as a team and started the season 5-0. But the Falcons sputtered down the stretch, losing their last four, including a loss to Capital in the first round of the state playoffs.

“We need confidence, I know we could have won those games if we were confi-dent,” Burk said.

Two top rushers return to Vallivue for senior seasons

Layne Coffin


2010 RESULTSSept. 2 Eagle L 42-25Sept. 10 Mountain View W 56-42Sept. 17 Meridian W 41-7Sept. 24 Highland W 41-14Sept. 30 Boise W 42-21Oct. 8 Rocky Mountain L 16-13Oct. 15 Vallivue W 42-12Oct. 22 Timberline W 41-13^Oct. 29 Mountain View W 42-11*Nov. 5 Highland W 39-27*Nov. 12 Rocky Mountain W 35-33*Nov. 19 Coeur d’Alene L 28-7 ^ District Playoff Game* State Playoff Game

OFFENSERunning back Garrett Garner and offensive lineman Alex Irish are the two returning starters from a team that averaged 35.3 points per game a year ago behind star run-ning back Mike Kirby and quarterback Trent Godsey.“We’re very young on offense,” coach Lee Neumann said. “I think that’s going to take a little bit of time.”Garner averaged more than six yards a carry last season and will team with the elusive Fisher to give the Patriots a strong running attack.Junior quarterbacks Darian Seifert and Evan Radke were waging a tight competition for the starting job.

DEFENSECentennial features three returning starters in the secondary, including all-state cornerback Drew Pooley, and two solid defensive linemen in Jake Mendenhall and Landon Kissinger.Tom Sant is the safety and Malik Hill is the free safety on a unit that will likely have to carry the team early in the season.“We hope,” Neumann said. “If you can keep people from scoring too many times, you’re certainly in most games.”Said Kissinger: “Our defense is solid and we’ve got a lot of guys back. We definitely bring it hard and never stop. That’s our trademark.”

Garrett Garner, Sr., RBGarner takes over Mike Kirby’s role as the feature back and will see a lot of the football this season. He rushed for 604 yards as a junior and could double that

output this season. He also provides experi-ence at a position that is lean on veteran players. “He’s our only returning running back,” said coach Lee Neumann, who likes Garner’s blend of speed and strength.

Adam Eschbach/IPT

Centennial High coach Lee Neumann has guided the Patriots to three state titles and two runner-up finishes.

Matt Fisher, Sr., RBHe qualifies as a pos-sible breakout player due to Centennial’s lack of experience in terms of offensive skill players. Fisher will line up in the backfield or as a wing. “He’s very elusive, fast,

and really good in open space,” Neumann said. “We’re going to try to get him the ball in the open field. He’s got really good speed.”

Drew Pooley, Sr., CBPooley earned all-state honors last season when he intercepted six passes as a junior. He makes it risky for quar-terbacks to throw the ball in his direction. “He has played a lot the

last few years,” Neumann said. “He’s really good in man coverage. Very athletic and quick, and he has great instincts, too.” Pooley will also see time on offense at receiver.

Jake Mendenhall, Sr., DLThe third-year starter had four sacks and recovered two fumbles last season and is one of the top defensive linemen in the area. His veteran leadership is

crucial to Centennial’s defense. “He’s very athletic and he runs well,” Neumann said. “Very physical, strong kid. He has maturity and leadership. The experience factor really makes him good.” Mendenhall will also start on the offensive line.

Championship on Pats’ minds

5A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: CENTENNIAL PATRIOTSPLAYERS TO WATCH

By MIKE [email protected]

Centennial High lost in the 5A state title game last fall and the expectation is to make a run at returning to the championship contest this season.

Doesn’t matter that only two offensive starters are back from the team that lost to Coeur d’Alene in the finale, or that Eagle High has been tabbed the favorite behind all-everything quarterback Tanner Mangum.

The Patriots have a solid group of defensive players back and are still drawing inspiration from last season’s ac-complishments.

“It is a lot of motivation because we were

that close last year and it makes it that much more intense going into this season,” senior running back Matt Fisher said. “We want it that bad. We know we’re capable of it. We just have to work hard to get there and we know the hard work it takes to get to that level after

going through it last year.”Coach Lee Neumann

is getting reinforcements from a junior-varsity team that went unbeaten last season to blend in with the holdovers.

“This group comes out of a team that played for a state cham-pionship last year,” Neumann said. “So the younger guys kind of know and have seen what it takes to play in that final.”

2011 SCHEDULESept. 1 CAPITAL 7 .mSept. 8 at Borah 7 p.m.Sept. 16 TIMBERLINE 7 p.m.Sept. 23 at Eagle 7:30 p.m.Sept. 30 at Vallivue 7 p.m.Oct. 7 MERIDIAN 7 p.m.Oct. 14 BOISE 7 p.m.Oct. 21 MOUNTAIN VIEW 7 p.m.Oct. 28 at Rocky Mountain 7 p.m.

TEAM FACTSCOACH: Lee Neumann, 22nd season, 156-67 LAST YEAR: 9-3, 3-1 5A SICPLAYOFFS: Lost to Coeur d’Alene in state championship


2010 RESULTSSept. 2 at Centennial W 42-25Sept. 10 ROCKY MOUNTAIN L 48-21Sept. 17 at Highland W 51-50, OTSept. 23 Capital (at BSU) L 33-7Oct. 1 BORAH W 35-14Oct. 7 at Mountain View W 31-17Oct. 15 MERIDIAN W 24-14Oct. 22 CALDWELL W 44-0^ Oct. 29 VALLIVUE W 21-15 * Nov. 5 at Rocky Mountain L 70-42 ^ District Playoff Game* State Playoff Game

OFFENSEEagle coach Paul Peterson envisions an aerial circus this season with Taylor Mangum, an experienced group of receivers that includes Marc Cooper, Jason Lane and Jace Johnson and an offensive line led by Sully Wiefels.“We’re going to be a little crazy but we’re going to go really fast and we’re just going to throw it everywhere,” Peterson said.The throw-it-all-over-the-field philosophy also is a product of seeing star running back Dillon Lukehart move on to Boise State. The up-tempo attack is music to Mangum’s ears.“I’m confident I can throw to any one of the receivers and they’ll make a play,” Mangum said.

DEFENSEEagle has a nice returning nucleus on the defensive side of the field, which has helped increase the expectations that the Mustangs can contend for the state title.Safety D.J. Dean is a force in the back end, and defensive linemen Matt Llanes and Kasey Jensen give the Mustangs a solid duo up front. Jordan Nelson and Zac Crosgrove are solid outside linebackers.“We have so much experience and so much speed,” Peterson said. “All those guys are third-year varsity guys who have a lot of experience and know how to play. They’re all good football players.”

Tanner Mangum, QBHe’ll be the most-watched player in the state. Coach Paul Peterson welcomes the attention but knows scrutiny comes along with it. “I worry about the amount of atten-

tion and our expectations,” Peterson said. “It’s boastful — but the kid is that good.” Mangum said last year’s injury had a ben-efit. “It was a good chance for me to master the mental side of the game and focus on my football IQ,” Mangum said.

Adam Eschbach/IPT

Eagle High senior Tanner Mangum was named MVP of the prestigious Elite 11 quarterback camp.

Jace Johnson, WR/KJohnson is part of a deep receiving corps but his foot is even more impressive than his hands. His kicking prowess is so excep-tional that he recently verbally accepted a

scholarship offer, according to Peterson. “Jace was an all-state kicker last year who has already committed to the University of Idaho as a kicker,” Peterson said. Johnson regularly plants balls in the end zones on kickoffs.

D.J. Dean, SThe most athletic player on the team, Dean’s ver-satility was on display last season when he moved to quarterback after Mangum was injured. He’ll be able to focus more on his main

role this season and Peterson expects a big season from Dean. “He’s a Division I athlete,” Peterson said. “He’s potentially the best ath-lete in the city. He’s a great football player.”

Jordan Nelson, OLBNelson’s presence allows the Mustangs to take an aggressive approach on defense. Nelson foresees the unit increasing the number of turnovers it forces this season.

“I’m expecting a lot more interceptions and big plays causing turnovers,” Nelson said. “Last year, we kind of sat back and watched the offense take control. This year, I think we’re going to be the ones in control.”

Expectations high at Eagle

5A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: EAGLE MUSTANGS PLAYERS TO WATCH


Tanner Mangum played just nine quarters of football last season but that hasn’t kept the Eagle High quarter-back from seeing his reputa-tion soar skyward on the national level.

The senior enters the prep season as one of the nation’s most-watched signal callers after being named MVP of the prestigious Elite 11 quar-terback camp this summer.

“It was a pleasant sur-prise,” Mangum said after a recent practice. “I’ve been working hard my whole life to

accomplish goals like these. It’s a big honor and a big privilege.

“I’ve been trying to have a lot of fun and make the most of it and soak it all in, and not let it get into my head, but just enjoy it.”

The Brigham Young-bound Mangum missed most of his junior season after

breaking his right collarbone, which only made his rise on a national scale all the more stunning.

“It’s amazing to sit there and believe that the kid that is arguably the best quarter-back in the country is right here,” Eagle coach Paul Peter-son said. “That’s staggering.”

Mangum appreciates the recognition he is receiving but said he would trade it all for a state title.

“That’s a much bigger accolade than any individual award,” Mangum said.

2011 SCHEDULESept. 2 TIMBERLINE 7 p.m.Sept. 9 vs. Capital (at BSU) 8:30 p.m.Sept. 16 vs. Boise (at BSU) 6 p.m.Sept. 23 CENTENNIAL 7 p.m.Sept. 30 at Meridian 7 p.m.Oct. 6 VALLIVUE 7 p.m.Oct. 13 vs. Borah (at BSU) 7 p.m.Oct. 21 at Rocky Mountain 7 p.m.Oct. 28 MOUNTAIN VIEW 7 p.m.

TEAM FACTSCOACH: Paul Peterson, seventh season, 44-18 LAST YEAR: 7-3, 4-1 5A SIC Division 1PLAYOFFS: Beat Vallivue in districts, lost to Rocky Mountain in state quarterfinals


2010 RESULTSSept. 3 at Rocky Mountain L 35-7Sept. 10 LEWISTON W 28-24Sept. 17 CENTENNIAL L 41-7Sept. 24 MOUNTAIN VIEW L 17-6Oct. 1 vs. Capital (at BSU) L 46-27Oct. 8 at Caldwell W 55-7Oct. 15 at Eagle L 24-14Oct. 22 BORAH L 28-21

OFFENSECoach Kip Crofts said the Warriors have ditched their effort of being a spread offense this season, creating a completely different look to their play calling.Crofts calls it a “total reconstruction.”“We didn’t even use the option that much,” Crofts said. “This year, we’ve brought things tighter together, so that means we’re under center. We don’t have as many receivers. Our best receivers we use pretty much as tail-backs. We are what they call a flexbone.”Crofts compares the new-look offense to that of Air Force and Navy.That means the offense is going to be much more reliant on senior fullbacks Hayden Stout and Matt Van Overbeke to carry the load.

DEFENSEThe Warriors will use three down linemen and two middle linebackers, and like the changes on offense, Crofts said this was a needs-based move to work better with the skills his players had.“We don’t have enough big kids,” Crofts said. “We had to convert to a scheme that allowed us to play with three.”

Hayden Stout, Sr., FBStout is a three-year starter and has twice been selected to the 5A SIC all-conference team second team. Coach Kip Crofts said over the past three seasons, Stout has been

“the man” for the Warriors, averaging 1,100 yards rushing per season. He said Stout’s hard running will show itself to be extra important this season, as the team shifts to the flexbone offense. They will also rely on Stout’s quiet leadership to keep the new offense moving down the field.


Meridian coach Kip Crofts led the Warriors to the 5A state championship in his first season at the helm in 2007.

Matt Van Overbeke, Sr., FB/LBThe three-year starter’s leadership on the team is important for many reasons, not the least of which is his presence on both offense as a fullback when Stout

is moved in position, and linebacker on defense. Crofts compares him to Stout in quiet leadership, but says his play on the field speaks for itself.“He will physically dominate a lot of people,” Crofts said. “He’s pretty athletic. He will do a lot of damage.”

Skylar Thornton, Sr., DEThornton comes into this season playing an even more important role at defensive end than he did last year. In fact, Crofts calls him his most important defen-

sive player. With only three down linemen, Thornton will be expected to disrupt plays that go his direction.“He can literally stop any play on his side of the ball, and if it’s coming at him, or directed at him, he will stop it,” Krofts said.

Zach McCarthy, Jr., LBCrofts calls McCarthy “The General” because of his smart play on the field. He said some teams may not look at him with fear, but he packs a surprising punch.

“He’s not all that physically threatening,” Crofts said. “But he is so football smart. He always finds the ball, and he makes a play.”

Warriors play to their strengths

5A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: MERIDIAN WARRIORSPLAYERS TO WATCH


Meridian’s opponents on the gridiron this season could be noticing a few changes to the Warriors.

The most noticeable changes aren’t in uniforms and personnel, but in the game plan itself.

Meridian coach Kip Crofts said instead of dwelling on last season’s standings, he is approaching this season with a more honest grasp of his team’s strengths and weaknesses, and he’s patterning the game plan around it.

Crofts says a lack of major hardware in the school’s trophy case in recent years isn’t because the team lacks the talent of other

schools, or the heart.“Basically, the past few years we have tried

to be a team that we are not,” Crofts said. “We have tried to force the issue, and I don’t think I’m the only coach that did that. We tried to force the fact that maybe we weren’t that strong in one area and we tried to be strong in that area when we knew we really couldn’t be. So, yes, we’re trying to use our kids’ strengths better this year.”

What that acknowledgment has led to is an overhaul of the offense and defense that could leave other schools on their heels in what they expect the Warriors to throw at them on the field.

2011 SCHEDULESept. 1 vs. Boise (at BSU) 7 p.m.Sept. 9 at Mountain View 7 p.m.Sept. 16 BORAH 7 p.m.Sept. 23 ROCKY MOUNTAIN 7 p.m.Sept. 30 EAGLE 7 p.m.Oct. 7 at Centennial 7 p.m.Oct. 14 CAPITAL 7 p.m.Oct. 20 at Timberline 7 p.m.Oct. 28 VALLIVUE 7 p.m.

TEAM FACTSCOACH: Kip Crofts, fifth season, 20-18 LAST YEAR: 2-6, 1-4 5A SIC Division 1PLAYOFFS: Did not qualify


2010 RESULTSSept. 3 at Lake City W 27-20Sept. 10 CENTENNIAL L 56-42Sept. 17 at Rocky Mountain L 45-9Sept. 24 at Meridian W 17-6Oct. 1 CALDWELL W 51-7Oct. 7 EAGLE L 31-17Oct. 15 vs. Borah (at BSU) W 24-14Oct. 22 CAPITAL L 49-8^ Oct. 29 at Centennial L 42-11^ District Playoff Game

OFFENSEMountain View may lack a bedrock offensive identity going into the season, but it does have the potential for excellent balance.The Mavericks’ large offensive line no longer has standout running back Michael Ho-Lewis to block for, but luckily Daniel Lau is ready to step in after starting a few games when Ho-Lewis was injured last season. The ground success of both he and Kai Turner in 2010 could be a harbinger of a run-happy offense this season.Cam Matosich, the only returning starter at receiver, leads a group of mostly smaller receivers who will shoulder most of the workload, including juniors Colin Sale and Connor Armstrong. Tight ends Logan Deroin and Anthony Lyngar have significant value as bigger targets for Turner.

DEFENSELast year Mountain View allowed the most points and yards since the school opened — likely a result of the defense’s eight underclassmen starters.“We were as a group kind of disappointed in our defensive output,” said coach Judd Benedick, while noting that those eight guys could be a strength this year.

Kai Turner, So., QBTurner was given the benefit of the doubt as he became acclimated to the 5A Southern Idaho Conference a year ago. This year his leadership role is secure — and that’s some-

thing he seems to enjoy.”I believe how you hold yourself in defeat, how you sacrifice for your team, and taking pride in your efforts is always a victory,” he wrote via email.


Mountain View will attempt to rebound and return to the 5A state playoffs this season.

Daniel Lau, RBLau depends on his thick build and physi-cality, finding success straight ahead and between the tackles. But perhaps even more important will be the increased understand-

ing of the offense he cultivated during his stint as a starter in 2010.Lau also mentioned his cohesiveness with the offensive line as a reason for optimism.“We became closer as a team in the offsea-son,” he wrote.

Cam Matosich, WRAt 5-foot-9, 160 pounds, Matosich is known for his quickness and great hands, coach Judd Benedick said. His knowledge of how to succeed at that size might prove vital in the

development of his similarly small fellow receivers.“Yes, there are challenges with having a smaller group of receivers, but we think we can make up for that with speed, the way we catch the ball and how we play the game,” Matosich said in an email.

Austin Brown, Sr., DEA senior with impres-sive personal statistics and accolades, Brown is important to Mountain View’s attempt to rebound from a disap-pointing season defen-sively. He said he’ll be

even more explosive after a lot of hard work in the weight room this past offseason.Benedick knows the importance of smart athletes such as Brown and Moore spear-heading the defense.

Back for morePLAYERS TO WATCH

Mountain View moves forward with young, experienced quarterback

By JAKE [email protected]

© 2011 Idaho Press-TribuneAt some schools, a sophomore starting

quarterback would be cause for concern.At Mountain View, it’s a welcome dose of

experience.That’s because last year a freshman quar-

terback was at the helm. When Tyson Perci-field, who would have been a three-starter, decided to focus on basketball a few weeks before the football season began, 5-foot-9, 165-pound freshman Kai Turner was handed the ball — and a ton of responsibility.

“It was a very humbling challenge to step into the varsity ranks, and compete at that level after coming from middle school foot-ball,” Turner said via email.

The last-minute change likely contributed to Mountain View’s struggles: a 4-5 record, a blowout season-ending loss and the first absence from the state playoffs during coach Judd Benedick’s four-year tenure.

The bright side? The team now has a second-year signal-caller who has played through adversity.

“That’s going to pay off big-time,” said Benedick, adding that Turner spent the off-season at the chalkboard and watching game footage.

Turner also can fall back on a lot of sup-port, such as Daniel Lau, a running back who played well as a starter late last year; mainstay receiver Cam Matosich; and the return of three starting offensive linemen.

Still, Turner will be integral. “He’s a great leader and the kids respect

him,” Benedick.

2011 SCHEDULESept. 2 VALLIVUE 7 p.m.Sept. 9 MERIDIAN 7 p.m.Sept. 16 vs. Capital (at BSU) 7 p.m.Sept. 22 vs. Timberline (at BSU) 7 p.m.Sept. 30 BORAH 7 p.m.Oct. 6 vs. Boise (at BSU) 7 p.m.Oct. 14 ROCKY MOUNTAIN 7 p.m.Oct. 21 at Centennial 7 p.m.Oct. 28 at Eagle 7 p.m.

TEAM FACTSCOACH: Judd Benedick, fifth season, 25-15 LAST YEAR: 4-5, 3-2 5A SIC Division 1PLAYOFFS: Lost to Centennial, 42-11 in districts

5A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: MOUNTAIN VIEW MAVERICKS


2010 RESULTSSept. 3 MERIDIAN W 35-7Sept. 10 at Eagle W 48-21Sept. 17 MOUNTAIN VIEW W 45-9Sept. 24 TIMBERLINE W 54-6Oct. 1 at Coeur d’Alene L 34-22Oct. 8 at Centennial W 16-13Oct. 15 BOISE W 63-17Oct. 22 at Vallivue W 49-7^ Oct. 29 BORAH W 44-0* Nov. 5 EAGLE W 70-42* Nov. 12 CENTENNIAL L 35-33^ District Playoff Game* State Playoff Game

OFFENSERocky Mountain crowds might be in for more time-eating drives than quick-strike touchdowns in 2011. The Grizzlies’ ground aspirations largely hinge on a big, experienced offensive line comprising three returning starters and well-regarded junior left tackle Eli MacCullough, who coach Jason Warr lauded for his really long arms and physicality.Jason Crimmins will bear the brunt of the ball-carrying duties, while Riley Bradshaw, a sophomore, is competing with junior Riley Thomas for the starting quarterback role. Even when they go through the air, the Grizzlies will look different this year. At least three receivers stand 6 feet, 1 inch or taller and have a chance to contribute from the outset.

DEFENSEJT Trompke’s steady hand is gone, but what remains — including the return of both 2010 starters at cornerback — makes Warr opti-mistic his team can reprise its status as one of the top defenses in the 5A SIC. Blake Thoren, a linebacker moving to the middle from the outside, is capable of spearheading the unit, Warr said. In front of Thoren, Rocky Mountain’s supersized defensive line — led by 265-pound senior Derrick Munson — can amp up its aggressiveness because of Rocky Mountain’s cornerback situation. David Trompke, a 6-foot senior, is bookended by Demetrius Oliver, who ran a 10.87 100-meter dash in the spring.

Eli MacCullough, Jr., OTPerhaps the most likely candi-date for “Breakout Player of the Year” is MacCullough, thanks to a combination of talent and preparation.This 6-foot-5, 255-pound junior wasn’t a full-time starter in 2010, but he has shown

promise, winning the junior-varsity and varsity offensive lineman MVP awards in consecutive years at BSU’s high school football camp. He said those experiences and BYU’s camp provided a balanced approach as he learned about diverse offensive and defensive schemes.“That helped give me an edge,” he said.

Adam Eschbach/IPT

Quarterback Riley Thomas and the Rocky Mountain Grizzlies will need to step into some pretty big shoes this season.

Jason Crimmins, So., RBSmashmouth is replacing shake and bake in Rocky Mountain’s backfield.Crimmins, a sophomore, isn’t known for shiftiness as much as power, coach Jason Warr said. “He’s more of a physical, downhill runner,” he said.

Crimmins said he learned some about “vertical steps” and cutbacks from Jordan Deck, but for the most part he makes his mark with contact.“I just love to hit,” Crimmins said.

Riley Bradshaw, So., QBWarr said Bradshaw had a slight edge in the quarterback competition earlier in camp, but the official decision hadn’t been made.Bradshaw — a 6-foot, 170-pound sophomore — sports a realistic confidence that might

be just right for this developing offensive group. He thinks the squad has potential for some long plays, yet a methodical approach will be successful, too.“I think we could have a lot of drives with 5-yard and 6-yard gains, wearing down the defense,” he said.

Blake Thoren, MLBThoren fully appreciates what Trompke meant to this team.“It’s definitely a privilege to play after him.”That said, he’s confident in the ability of he and the rest of the defense to continue the Grizzlies’ recent success. Warr

has faith, too — especially after seeing Thoren’s progression into and through preseason camp.“He looks excellent,” the coach said.

Replacements ready for shot

5A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: ROCKY MOUNTAIN GRIZZLIESPLAYERS TO WATCH

Young group feels they have something to prove this year

By JAKE [email protected]

MERIDIAN — These guys don’t exactly light up when asked about last year’s Rocky Mountain football team.

Who could blame them? Quarterback Riley Bradshaw, running back Jason Crim-mins and middle linebacker Blake Thoren are striving to take over for some of the most highly respected local play-ers in recent memory. Plus, people keep asking about it.

“We have something to prove,” Thoren said, add-ing that this team has the athletes and makeup to win

state.That’s something this

trio’s forerunners never ac-complished, going 9-2 in 2010 but losing to Centennial in the state semifinals. Still, last year’s seniors achieved a lot. Quarterback Levi Altringer completed 66 percent of his passes and threw 19 touchdowns against eight interceptions in the regular season, and receiver Dal-las Burroughs averaged 17.2

yards on 51 catches. Running back Jordan Deck raced to 7.8 yards per carry and 18 rush-ing touchdowns. Linebacker JT Trompke controlled a quietly staunch defense.

Regardless, neither the newcomers nor fourth-year coach Jason Warr seem concerned. Warr thinks the defense has the tools neces-sary to pick up where last year’s unit left off, when it allowed just 114 points.

“Scheme-wise, and the way kids understand what we’re trying to do, I think we can keep that up,” Warr said.

Perhaps they’ll continue winning as well — with their own style. Maybe then the comparisons will stop.

TEAM FACTSCOACH: Jason Warr fourth season, 15-15 LAST YEAR: 9-2, 5-0 5A SIC Division IIPLAYOFFS: Lost to Centennial in state semifinals

2011 SCHEDULEToday COEUR D’ALENE 7 p.m.Sept. 2 vs. Borah (at BSU) 7 p.m.Sept. 9 vs. Timberline (at BSU) 7 p.m.Sept. 16 VALLIVUE 7 p.m.Sept. 23 at Meridian 7 p.m.Sept. 30 vs. Boise (at BSU) 7 p.m.Oct. 6 CAPITAL 7 p.m.Oct. 14 at Mountain View 7 p.m.Oct. 21 EAGLE 7 p.m.Oct. 28 CENTENNIAL 7 p.m.


2010 RESULTSAug. 27 at Nampa L 41-0Sept. 2 POST FALLS L 57-14Sept. 10 KUNA L 28-27Sept. 17 at Vallivue L 56-7Sept. 24 BORAH L 55-21Oct. 1 at Mountain View L 51-7Oct. 7 MERIDIAN L 55-7Oct. 14 at Capital L 55-25Oct. 22 at Eagle L 44-0Oct. 29 at Skyline L 41-6

TEAM FACTSCOACH: Zach McGee, first season LAST YEAR: 0-10 overall, 0-5 5A SIC Division IPLAYOFFS: Did not qualify

OFFENSEFive starters return on the Caldwell offense, including quarterback Brett Jackson. However, coach Zach McGee says the Cougars will run out of the multiple wing offense and rely heav-ily on the run.“We’re going to win if we run the football,” McGee said. “We’re not a basketball-on-grass offense. We’re going to try to control the clock.”McGee said fullback Laren Walker provides the Cougars with power to run up the middle. Jacob Torres will be more of an outside runner for the Cougars.

DEFENSEThe Cougars return five starters to a defense that gave up more than 40 points in nine of its 10 losses a year ago. Rather than out-scheme opponents, McGee said the Cougars are going to focus on being in the right place.Caldwell, which played in a 4-4 front last year, switches to a 4-3 this year. All four starting line-backers — Jackson, Torres, Bernie Fernandez and Andres Soto — return. McGee said all four will be rotated throughout the season.

Brett Jackson, Sr., QB/LBJackson enters his fourth season as a varsity player and second as the Cougars’ starting quarterback.“He has a lot of var-sity football experience,”

coach Zach McGee said. “That, at the quar-terback position, is essential. You want your guy that touches the ball every play to be the guy that’s confident and cool.”He passed for 1,187 yards last year and rushed for more than 400.


The Caldwell Cougars open 4A SIC play on Sept. 2 against Middleton at Simplot Stadium.

Andy Forse, Sr., WR/DBForse grabbed three touchdowns in 2010, and was named as a 5A Southern Idaho Conference honorable mention receiver. He had 23 catches for 295 yards.

“He’s a guy that is a possession-type receiver, McGee said. “He’s the guy you can throw the ball to and expect to catch it. He’s been that way since he was a little kid.”

Jose Gamez, Sr., OL/DLGamez was supposed to be a factor on both the offensive and defensive lines as a junior, but injuries hampered his production. McGee said Gamez is healthy this year

and ready to step up for his senior season.“This is kind of a breath of fresh air for him and for the rest of us who know that he’s as healthy as he is and is as motivated as he is,” the coach said. “We’re really excited about him.”

Bernie Fernandez, Sr., OL/LBMcGee called Fernandez the “emotional leader” of the Cougars and said he will once again play a big role in the success of the Cougars’ line.“He’s the jokester and

he’s the serious guy all rolled into one,” McGee said. “He’s kind of that guy when you expect that spark or expect that guy to kind of step up and take it to the next level, he’s the one.”

New conference, coach for Caldwell

4A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: CALDWELL COUGARSPLAYERS TO WATCH

2011 SCHEDULEAug. 26 VALLIVUE 7 p.m.Sept. 2 MIDDLETON 6 p.m.Sept. 9 COLUMBIA 7 p.m.Sept. 16 MOUNTAIN HOME 7 p.m.Sept. 23 at Bishop Kelly 7 p.m.Sept. 30 SKYVIEW 7 p.m.Oct. 6 at Kuna 7 p.m.Oct. 14 at Nampa 7 p.mOct. 21 at Emmett 7 p.m.


© 2011 Idaho Press-TribunePerhaps no football team

in the state had its fate change in the third week of January the way Caldwell did.

On Jan. 18, the Idaho State Activities Association approved Caldwell High’s petition to move from the 5A classification to 4A.

A day earlier, Lee Leslie had resigned as coach of Bishop Kelly, opening a spot that eventually lured Caldwell coach Tim Bren-nan back to the school he coached at for 15 years.

The Caldwell Cougars, return to the the 4A South-ern Idaho Conference, after five sea-sons at the Class 5A level. The Cougars are also play-ing under new coach Zach McGee, their third coach in as many years.

“We’re excited about it,” McGee said. “We’re handling it with a level of excitement that’s refreshing.”

McGee, who was pro-

moted after four years as an assistant, leads the team into a new era. Caldwell strug-gled as members of the 5A Southern Idaho Conference, winning only one league game the last three seasons. But McGee knows that his team still has its work cut out for it. Caldwell lost both its games last season against 4A SIC foes.

“By no means do we go down to an easy division,” McGee said. “This (league) contains the state champ (Bishop Kelly) and there’s some dang good football players here. I don’t think our road gets easier.”

Cougars begin Zach McGee era in the ranks of 4A

ZachMcGee


2010 RESULTSSept. 3 at Jerome W, 20-13Sept. 10 FRUITLAND L, 27-0Sept. 17 at Skyview L, 13-6Sept. 24 at Kuna W, 21-0Oct. 1 MOUNTAIN HOME L, 21-17Oct. 8 at Middleton W, 19-12Oct. 15 BISHOP KELLY L, 27-10Oct. 22 at Emmett L, 16-13Oct. 29 NAMPA L, 31-22

TEAM FACTSCOACH: Derek Mertz, 4th season, 9-18 LAST YEAR: 3-6, 2-5 4A WICPLAYOFFS: did not qualify

OFFENSEThe fly offense has been scrapped for the pistol formation, an effort to boost the passing game under the leadership of junior quarterback Austin Schaffer, whose receiving targets include Eric Cotton and Tyler Casey, a transfer from Mountain Home. The run game, which has featured multiple ball carriers a game in past seasons, will now be limited. Tailbacks Keegan Curry and Mario Jenkins run behind a youthful offensive line.

DEFENSEThe 3-5-3 defense loses cornerstones in the likes of linebacker Adrian Dickinson (73.5 tackles, 10.5 for loss) and defensive lineman Brandon VanWinkle (45.5, 13 TFL)Now its defensive linemen Brandon Henrie and Nick Edenfield, who can provide a spark in the run-stopping antics. At middle linebacker, Keegan Curry brings speed and athleticism. “He’s kind of the quarterback of the defense,” coach Derek Mertz says. “He’s not as big and physical as Adrian (Dickinson), but he’s more athletic.”

Spencer Salinas, Sr., DB/RThe conference’s top-rated pass defense loses Luke Marks and Jake Arslanian, both of whom earned second-team all-

conference selections. However, the defensive backfield still boasts Salinas, a 6-foot-2, 195-pound senior who ranked second behind Marks last year with four pass breakups. “He’s a tremendous hitter,” coach Derek Mertz says. “He’s a brutal hitter.“He’s better than he was last year.”


Junior QB Austin Schaffer starts a new era. “I expect great things from him this year,” coach Derek Mertz says.

Eric Cotton, Jr., OLB/WRCotton’s athleti-cism is evidenced by his ability to dunk a basketball. The 6-foot-6, 230-pounder runs well for his size.

“When he plays with a little bit of an edge, he’s a much better player,” Mertz says. “We try to push his buttons to get him into that mode. When he flips that switch, he’s a very good football player.”

Austin Schaffer, Jr., QB/FSHe saw action at the tail end of last season — although it wasn’t the Wildcats’ original plan to insert him as a

sophomore. Now as a junior, Schaffer sprouted in the offseason to 6 feet and 195 pounds. He’s a dual threat as a passer and run-ner with smarts and athleticism.

Nick Edenfield, Sr., OL/DLThe 6-4, 285-pound Edenfield is a core member on the offensive and defensive lines, who will be looked upon to fill the shoes of Brandon VanWinkle, an all-conference lineman who graduated. Edenfield showcases an inspirational tenacious work ethic: flipping tires and running ladders. “He’s exceptionally strong. I think he leads in our team in almost every lifting category,” Mertz says. “Really, really impressive kid.”

‘Show that we can play disciplined’

4A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: COLUMBIA WILDCATSPLAYERS TO WATCH

2011 SCHEDULEAug. 26 CANYON RIDGE 7 p.m.Sept. 2 at Mountain Home 7 p.m.Sept. 9 at Caldwell 7 p.m.Sept. 16 at Nampa 7 p.m.Sept. 23 KUNA 7 p.m.Oct. 7 EMMETT 7 p.m.Oct. 14 at Bishop Kelly 7 p.m.Oct. 21 SKYVIEW 7 p.m.Oct. 28 MIDDLETON 7 p.m.

By BRUCE [email protected]

© 2011 Idaho Press-TribuneYear six of Wildcat football

is here. No playoff berths yet. They certainly came close in 2009, a battle to regular season’s end. Last season, they possessed talent — and their potential showed in a mid-season upset at Middle-ton — but still, no postseason action.

Is it fair for the ’Cats to talk about finally earning that playoff spot?

“I don’t think that’s wise. I think what we need to think about is Canyon Ridge,”

coach Derek Mertz said. “That’s the first game. And that’s all we’re think-ing about — that’s it, and that’s all.”

In terms of last season’s conference statistics, the Wildcats’ defense was third in points allowed (17.7 per game). They also boasted the No. 1-rated pass defense (76.7 yards per game).

“Our defense was able to

keep us in ball games,” Mertz acknowledges.

The offense, however, provided extremely frustrat-ing sputtering moments. It ranked seventh out of eight teams in conference statisti-cal categories such as total yardage (254.1 points per game), passing (75.9 ppg) and scoring (14.3 ppg).

“I think execution has been a gross part of our past. It’s been pretty ugly,” Mertz says. “Obviously, we really wanna step that up, and ex-ecute, and show that we can play disciplined football.”

‘I think execution has been a gross part of our past’

Derek Mertz


2010 RESULTSSept. 3 at Minico W, 13-6Sept. 10 BOISE W, 40-10Sept. 17 MIDDLETON W, 35-12Sept. 24 at Emmett W, 47-21Oct. 1 SKYVIEW W, 15-13Oct. 8 MOUNTAIN HOME W, 35-6Oct. 15 at Columbia W, 27-10Oct. 22 at Nampa W, 49-17Oct. 29 KUNA W, 44-0*Nov. 5 POCATELLO W, 27-17*Nov. 13 SHELLEY W, 28-7*Nov. 20 BLACKFOOT W, 41-28* State playoff game

TEAM FACTSCOACH: Tim Brennan, 16th season, 126-34 LAST YEAR: 12-0, 7-0 4A SICPLAYOFFS: Won state title vs. Blackfoot, 41-28

OFFENSE“We feel we have to run the football,” coach Tim Brennan says. “If we’re successful run-ning the football, then you can throw the ball, off play-action.” There’s a three-way battle at quarterback between Bowen Ogata, Trent Anderson and David Pogue. Whoever starts will throw to receivers Clay Oliver and Ben Skinner.The Knights’ tailbacks are JoJo Harrington and Andrew Spangler. Fullbacks are Shea Siegert, Josh Poole and Derek Thompson, the latter of whom is a strong, physical blocker.

DEFENSEThe Knights play similar to a 4-4 — although it’s a little different and features a zone-coverage look most of the time.“We won’t blitz a lot, because we hope kids are in position to make plays,” Brennan says. Key components of the defensive line will be Neal Murphy and Austin Seidler.

JoJo Harrington, Sr., RB/OLBThe 5-foot-10, 190-pounder has new run-tackling teammates. Last year, he played along-side Cody McCarthy, who dominated opposing ball carriers en route to

winning 4A SIC Defensive Player of the Year.Harrington earned all-conference second-team status as an outside linebacker — the position he’ll play again inside coach Tim Brennan’s 4-4 system. “He’s just a solid high school football player,” Brennan says.

Adam Eschbach/IPT

Knights players run through quick-feet drills during summer camp.

Neal Murphy, Jr., OL/DLThe Knights’ left tackle started last season as a sophomore.“He’s a very good athlete for being an offensive lineman,” Brennan says. “He runs real well.

“He’s going to be a physical kid. He’s prob-ably not going to be the best one-on-one base blocker in the conference, but he’ll tie people up.” Murphy will also see time in the trenches on the defensive line.

Austin Seidler, Sr., OL/DLThe Knights offense last season dominated in many facets. Now, the powerful and compacted Seidler will be looked upon as a leader from his center

position.“He’s not real big, but he’s strong and gets off the ball,” Brennan says. “He’s gonna be a real good high school football player.”

Josh Poole, Jr., FB/ILBCody McCarthy was a blocking-running threat last year for Bishop Kelly.Now its Poole who will man the offense at fullback.“Probably one of his best strengths is, you

tell him how to do something one time, and he usually figures it out,” Brennan says. “He’s very intelligent.“He’s a good athlete at fullback, but he’s also going to be a good blocker. We’ll be able to throw the ball to him out of the backfield, also.”

Winning a state title is ‘always the goal’

4A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: BISHOP KELLY KNIGHTSPLAYERS TO WATCH

2011 SCHEDULESept. 2 JEROME 7 p.m.Sept. 9 EMMETT 7 p.m. Sept.16 at Kuna 7 p.m.Sept. 23 CALDWELL 7 p.m.Sept. 30 at Mountain Home 7 p.m. Oct. 7 at Middleton 7 p.m.Oct. 14 COLUMBIA 7 p.m.Oct. 21 NAMPA 7 p.m.Oct. 28 at Skyview 7 p.m.


© 2011 Idaho Press-TribuneThe magical ride ended

with dethroning rival Black-foot. Coach Lee Leslie and his seniors celebrated inside Bronco Stadium, their “Be Perfect” motto complete as 4A state champions.

That was nine months ago. Today, the landscape at Bishop Kelly High is vastly different.

Leslie left the program. Playmakers Cody McCar-thy and Hunter Griffith graduated. Yet, the tradi-tion and goals of sustaining

dominance remains because the Knights dipped into their past.

Tim Brennan is back.

The winningest coach (126-34) in the program’s 47-year history returns after a four-year hiatus. His Bishop Kelly resume from 1992-2006 includes seven conference titles, three 4A runner-up

finishes and three state titles (1994, 20004, 2005).

He inherits a successful group of freshman and junior varsity players who lost one combined game last season. They’ll try and maintain the Knights’ 4A SIC winning streak of 16 games (dating back to 2008). And they’ll try to defend their back-to-back conference titles — and that special state title, too.

“They were state cham-pions last year — and it’s really tough to repeat, but that’s always the goal here at Bishop Kelly: To be a state champion,” Brennan said.

Winningest coach in school history returns to sideline

Tim Brennan


2010 RESULTSAug.27 WEISER W30-27Sept.3 atFruitland L24-21Sept.17 atNampa L28-21Sept.24 BISHOPKELLY L47-21Oct.1 KUNA W39-6Oct.8 atSkyview L28-13Oct.15 atMiddleton L42-20Oct.22 COLUMBIA W16-13Oct.29 MOUNTAINHOME W49-20

TEAM FACTSCOACH:JerryO’Mahony,eighthseason,19-43LAST YEAR:4-5,3-44ASICPLAYOFFS:didnotqualify

OFFENSEHopingtospreadthepunishmentaround,coachJerryO’Mahonyhasidentifiedsixplayerswhowillbeseesignificantcarriesinwhatheispromisingwillbeamorerun-orientedteamthanEmmettfanshaveseeninthepast.TwotoughbacksinseniorAaronVillarinandjuniorHunterLarsonlendcredibilitytotheircoach’sclaimofadeparturefromhistradi-tionalpass-firstphilosophy.Butdon’tletaballcontrolgroundgamemakeyouforgetthepass-happyO’Mahonyisstillonthesidelines.Therewillstillbeplentyofairactionwithquickandsure-handedreceiversthatincludeseniorsMarkFreeman,TuckerHyde,CadenBanisterandPatrickO’Mahony.

DEFENSESurrenderingbigplaysondefensehasplaguedtheHuskiesinrecentyears.Timeandagain,opposingoffenseshaveconvertedafourth-and-longontheEmmettsideofthefieldintosixpoints.Butthismightbetheyearthatchanges.

Casey Barton, QBEmmettwillberelyingheavilyonafirst-yearvarsityquarterbacktoruntheirdeceptiveoffense.SeniorCaseyBartonfitsthemoldofatypicalsig-nalcallerincoachJerryO’Mahony’ssystem—he’sclassroomsmart,footballsmartandathletic.Barton’sspeedandquicknesswillbeabigpartoftheHuskies’groundgame.Iftherookievarsityquarter-backcanavoidmistakesinthepass-ingattack,EmmettwillmovetheballonFridaynights.

Wyatt Watts, FB/LBToughisthewordtodescribetheHuskies’second-yearfullbackandlinebackerWyattWatts.O’MahonydescribestheseniorasEmmett’sbest“impactplayer,”andheneedstobeahugefactorondefenseiftheteamistofinallyhavesuccessstoppingtherungame.Onoffense,Watts’hard-nosedstyleofplayatfullbackwillmakehimaweaponasaleadblocker,ballcarrier,passreceiverandpassblocker.

Dakota Cole, TEAleaderbothonandoffthefield,DakotaColeisoneofEmmett’smostheavilyrecruitedathletesinthelast10years.ThestrongestandoneofthefastestmembersoftheteamhasdrawninterestfromBrownUniversity,TheUnitedStatesNavalAcademyandIdahotonameafew.Afixtureondefense,lookfortheseniortogetinvolvedinthepassinggamefromthetightendposition.

Patrick O’Mahony, KOneofthethingsfanscanlookfor-wardtothisyearisthekickinggameofPatrickO’Mahony.Lastseasontheseniormissedhisfirstextrapointattemptbeforegoingontohit13in-a-row.Wordoutofcampthisyearisthathe’sbeensplittingtheuprightsfrombeyond50yards.ThatgivesEmmettoptionsintheredzonetheyhaven’thadinmanyyears.

Huskies hope for postseason run

4A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: EMMETT HUSKIESPLAYERS TO WATCH

2011 SCHEDULEToday atWeiser 7p.m.Sept.2 NAMPA 7p.m.Sept.9 atBishopKelly 7p.m.Sept.16 SKYVIEW 7p.m.Sept.23 MIDDLETON 7p.m.Sept.30 atKuna 7p.m.Oct.7 atColumbia 7p.m.Oct.21 Caldwell 7p.m.Oct.28 atMountainHome 7p.m.

By KELLEY TAYLORMessenger Index

Speed is the word coming from the football practice field at Emmett High sea-son. Always a high octane guy himself, Emmett coach Jerry O’Mahony might finally have a team on the field that can match his energy on the sideline.

Everywhere he looks, O’Mahony sees speed. From defense to special teams, and

on offense, this is arguably the fastest team the Huskies have fielded in O’Mahony’s eight years on the sideline. That’s the good news for the Huskies. The bad news is once again, there is very little depth behind all that quick-ness.

“We’re going to come after you for four quarters,” O’Mahony said. “Or as long as our depth will allow.”

Last season, the perenni-

ally short-handed Huskies avoided big injuries to key players and finished with a 4-5 (3-4 4A SIC) record. They’ll need similar luck this season if they are going to post the first winning record since early in O’Mahony’s tenure as head coach.

Key to the team’s success will be protecting first-year starting quarterback Casey Barton and keeping him on the field.

Casey Barton Wyatt Watts

Dakota Cole Patrick O’Mahony


2010 RESULTSSept. 3 VALLIVUE L 49-0Sept. 10 at Caldwell W 28-27Sept. 17 at Mountain Home L 42-7Sept. 24 COLUMBIA L 21-0Oct. 1 at Emmett L 39-6Oct. 7 NAMPA L 38-6Oct. 15 SKYVIEW L 68-7Oct. 22 at Middleton L 29-6Oct. 29 at Bishop Kelly L 44-0

TEAM FACTSCOACH: Rusty Frisch, 2nd season, 1-8 record LAST YEAR: 1-8, 0-7 4A SICPLAYOFFS: Did not make playoffs

OFFENSEKuna will run out of the spread offense this season and will implement the veer into its attack.Five starters return from last year, meaning many younger players will need to step up.With a lot of new players coming in, coach Rusty Frisch said it’s hard to tell where the strong points are for the Kavemen this year.“It’s a new team. We got Kenny (Berger) being the new quarterback and changes on the offense. We’ll see how it comes together here.”

DEFENSEThe Kavemen struggled on defense last year, giving up nearly 40 points per game.Frisch said he feels the Kavemen’s depth up front will help the defensive unit improve this year.Ralph Rivas enters the season with the most experience on the D-line, but the coach said players like Kevin Alvarez and Cody Johnson have been able to step up.Chad Milburn will help anchor the line-backing core, while Dylan Kerbs, Kayden Votroubek anchor the defensive backfield.

Kenny Berger, Sr., QBBerger split time at quarterback last year, but will take over as the full-time starter this year. Coach Rusty Frisch

said Berger has had a tremendous offseason and was helped a lot by the Boise State camp.“He’s a guy that is going to be instrumental in terms of our offense,” Frisch said. “But he’s just one guy.”


Rusty Frisch is entering his second season as the Kuna Kavemen’s coach.

Chad Milburn, Sr., LB/RBMilburn played mostly on the defense last year and didn’t spend a lot of time at running back, but Frisch said

the senior will play a big role in the Kavemen’s running game this year.“He’s going to come in, help us out and be a guy we can count on to run the ball,” Frisch said.

Chris Millspaugh, Sr., RBMillspaugh will be more of a perim-eter runner for Kuna this year. Frisch said he will be used in the ‘H’ back role, a guy who can split out and run pass routes.“He’s a guy that’s going to be mul-tifaceted in terms of getting him involved in the pass game, “ Frisch said. “He’s a hard runner, more of a speedy kind of scat-back.”

Dylan Kerbs, Sr., FSKerbs was a leader in the Kuna secondary a year ago, and his coach expects more of the same during his

senior year.“(He’s) very smart, kind of the quar-terback of the defense and under-stands what we’re doing,” Frisch said. “We’re looking for him to step up and play a big part in being a leader on defense.”

Kuna hopes hard work pays dividends

4A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: KUNA KAVEMENPLAYERS TO WATCH

2011 SCHEDULEToday MINICO 7 p.m.Sept. 2 at Skyview 7 p.m.Sept. 9 at Middleton 7 p.m.Sept. 16 BISHOP KELLY 7 p.m.Sept. 23 at Columbia 7 p.m.Sept. 30 EMMETT 7 p.m.Oct. 6 CALDWELL 7 p.m.Oct. 14 MOUNTAIN HOME 7 p.m.Oct. 28 at Nampa 7 p.m.


© 2011 Idaho Press-TribuneAs the second year of the

Rusty Frisch era gets under way, there seems to be a sense of change among the Kuna football team.

They’ve had bigger turnout in the summer, attended more camps, and done anything they can to improve on last year’s 1-8 overall record, and an 0-7 record against 4A Southern Idaho Con-ference foes.

“This summer we’ve been working way harder, a lot more

kids in the weight room,” senior safety Dylan Kerbs said. “We’ve done a lot more 7-on-7 tournaments and we went to the Boise State football camp. We’ve been preparing a lot more coming into two-a-days.”

The Boise State camp was something that the Kavemen had not attended in previous

years, but was something Frisch was determined to get his team into, where he said he was happy with how the Kavemen per-formed.

“I think for us, it was very important in terms of our confidence level in terms of understanding we can compete against bigger teams, not just in terms of classification, but physi-cally,” said Frisch, who had been to the camp previously as an assistant with Mountain View. “That (success) was attributed to those guys that really worked hard in the weight room.”

Kavemen look to improve on last year’s one-win season

RustyFrisch


by

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2010 RESULTSSept. 3 POCATELLO L 21-16Sept. 10 at Jerome W 27-6Sept. 17 at Bishop Kelly L 35-12Sept. 24 at Mountain Home W 36-13Oct. 1 at Nampa W 14-7Oct. 8 COLUMBIA L 19-12Oct. 15 EMMETT W 42-20Oct. 22 at Kuna W 29-6Oct. 29 SKYVIEW L 28-14* Nov. 6 at Shelley L 23-0* State Playoff Game

TEAM FACTSCOACH: Bill Brock, 12th season, 50-54 LAST YEAR: 5-5, 4-3 4A SICPLAYOFFS: Lost to Shelley, 23-0, in first round

OFFENSEThe double wing running style has worked for Middleton, and that’s what they’re stick-ing with.“That’s our identity,” coach Bill Brock said. “I think our kids would revolt right now if we tried to change it. They own it and that’s what they do.”Brock said the Vikings will have as many as eight players who run the ball in any particular game, led by seniors Hyder Jessup, Porter Bennett and Josiah Pero.“It’s going to be a total team effort, I can guarantee that,” Brock said.

DEFENSESeven starters return on defense, with the line-backer position being one of the strong points. Pero and Jessup return as outside linebackers while Cole Lowe will play middle linebacker after moving up from the junior varsity team for last season’s playoff game.Domingo Urquiaga moves up from linebacker to join Tyson Payne and Luke Hildebrandt on the defensive line.

4A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: MIDDLETON VIKINGS

2011 SCHEDULEToday JEROME 7 p.m.Sept. 2 at Caldwell 6 p.m,Sept. 9 KUNA 7 p.m.Sept. 16 at Pocatello 6 p.m.Sept. 23 at Emmett 7 p.m.Sept. 30 NAMPA 7 p.m.Oct. 7 BISHOP KELLY 7 p.m.Oct. 14 at Skyview 7 p.m.Oct. 21 MOUNTAIN HOME 7 p.m.Oct. 28 at Columbia 7 p.m.

Porter Bennett, Sr., RB/DBBennett was the Vikings starting quarterback a year ago, but coach Bill Brock felt given his tal-ents and the Middleton system, he would be

better suited as a running back. The coach said Bennett immediately bought in.“He didn’t bat an eye,” Brock said. “I just said ‘why don’t we do this,’ and he said ‘yes, that’s what we’re going to do.’ To his credit he didn’t question anything. He’s a tremendous athlete, we just feel like that’s a good way to get him the ball.”

Domingo Urquiaga, Sr., OL/DLUrquiaga is a three-year starter for the Vikings and moves from linebacker to the defensive line.On the offensive line, where he plays guard, Urquiaga will be the

experienced leader as the Vikings lost three all-conference offensive linemen from last year to graduation.“It’s not his first rodeo by any means,” Brock said. “He’s very solid, a good leader by example.”

Hyder Jessup, Sr. RB/LBJessup was the Vikings’ No. 3 running back a year ago, but with the two who were above him graduating, Brock said he will have a chance to take over as the No. 1 guy.

“He understands our system and what it takes to be successful,” Brock said. “Not only to run the ball and to block. He’s going to step right up and do a good job for us.”

Josiah Pero, Sr., RB/LBPero played mostly on defense, and spent lim-ited time on offense last year, but Brock said he will have an expanded role with the Vikings’ running game. His physi-cal make up, Brock said,

is just what Middleton is looking for.“He’s quick,” Brock said. “He’s very quick off the ball. He has great explosions and he’s a physical guy. He fits in good to our team make up and he’s going to fit in to our team make up.”

PLAYERS TO WATCHViking goal: Get wins in November

By John [email protected]

© 2011 Idaho Press-TribuneThe city of Middleton has

seen quite a few changes in recent months.

At the intersection of Mid-dleton Road and State Route 44, the city’s first traffic light was recently installed. Just a few miles away, on Emmett Road, the city’s new high school opened its doors to students on Wednesday.

And on the new artificial turf at the high school, the Middleton football team is hoping to find some

new-found postseason success this year.

“The last three years we’ve gone to the state playoffs and lost,” senior lineman Domingo Urquiaga said. “So our goal in the last two years has been to win in November, not just go to November.”

Getting to November the last three years has not been

a trouble for the Vikings, as they’ve gone 17-10 in the regular season over that span.

But each season, they’ve suffered a first-round exit, including last season’s 23-0 loss to Shelley.

“We’ve played some very good teams and we’ve had opportunities,” Middleton coach Bill Brock said. “It will work out for us. We tell our kids nothing comes easy and sooner or later we’re going to get over the hump. When it does (happen) there’s no stopping us.”

Middleton has lost in first round past three years

Bill Brock

Greg Kreller/IPT

Senior Hyder Jessup will be one of as many as eight running backs who can run the football for Middleton this season.


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2010 RESULTSAug. 27 JEROME W 28-21Sept. 9 at Timberline L 33-13Sept. 18 KUNA W 42-7Sept. 24 MIDDLETON L 36-13Oct. 1 at Columbia W 21-17Oct. 8 at Bishop Kelly L 35-6Oct. 15 at Nampa L 45-27Oct. 22 SKYVIEW L 37-16Oct. 29 at Emmett L 49-20

4A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: MOUNTAIN HOME TIGERS

2011 SCHEDULESept. 2 COLUMBIA 7 p.m.Spet. 9 at Skyview 7 p.m.Sept. 16 at Caldwell 7 p.m.Sept. 23 NAMPA 7 p.m.Sept. 30 BISHOP KELLY 7 p.m.Oct. 7 at Jerome 7 p.m.Oct. 14 at Kuna 7 p.m.Oct. 21 at Middleton 7 p.m.Oct. 28 EMMETT 7 p.m.

Tigers look to focus on team

TEAM FACTSCOACH: Brian Floyd, 8th season, 32-34 LAST YEAR: 3-6, 2-5 4A SICPLAYOFFS: Did not qualifyRETURNING STARTERS: Six offense, six defense


© 2011 Idaho Press-TribuneFor many coaches, returning one

of the top passers and one of the top receivers in the conference would be something to be excited about.

But Brian Floyd is looking for more.Sure, the Mountain Home coach

is happy to see quarterback Jake Hen-nessey and receiver JT Cristobal re-turn for their senior seasons, but they are only two pieces of a much bigger puzzle for Mountain Home this year.

“We’re really going for this whole team thing,” said Floyd. “We’ve talked about the individual in the past and it hasn’t work.” Floyd said the Tigers hope to build a strong ground game to help supple-ment their already solid passing at-tack. Juan Silva will be the Tigers’ No. 1 running back this season.

Defensively, the Tigers return six starters, including all four of their de-fensive backs in Hennessey, Cristobal as well as Ricky Castillo and Tyler Knauth.


Mountain Home quarterback Jake Hennessey was second in the conference in passing last season and returns to the Tigers for his senior season.

CASCADE RAMBLERSSept. 2 at Council 7 p.m.Sept. 16 at Rimrock 7 p.m.Sept. 23 at Horseshoe Bend 7 p.m.Sept. 30 GARDEN VALLEY 7 p.m.Oct. 7 at Greenleaf 7 p.m.Oct. 14 IDAHO CITY 4 p.m.Oct. 21 NOTUS 4 p.m.Oct. 28 at Wilder 4 p.m.

HORSESHOE BENDSept. 2 at Garden Valley 4 p.m.Sept. 9 at Greenleaf 7 p.m.Sept. 16 at Greeleaf 7 p.m.Sept. 23 CASCADE 7 p.m.Sept. 30 IDAHO CITY 7 p.m.Oct. 7 at Wilder 4 p.m.Oct. 14 NOTUS 7 p.m.Oct. 21 at Rimrock 7 p.m.

IDAHO CITY WILDCATSSept. 2 at Lighthouse Christ. 7 p.m.Sept. 9 GARDEN VALLEY 7 p.m.Sept. 23 GREENLEAF 7 p.m.Sept. 30 at Horseshoe Bend 7 p.m.Oct. 7 NOTUS 7 p.m.Oct. 14 at Cascade 4 p.m.Oct. 21 WILDER 7 p.m.Oct. 28 at Rimrock 7 p.m.

RIMROCK RAIDERSToday at Garden Valley 4 p.m.Sept. 2 at Shoshone 7 p.m.Sept. 9 at Dietrich 7 p.m.Sept. 16 CASCADE 7 p.m.Sept. 23 at Wilder 4 p.m.Sept. 30 at Notus 7 p.m.Oct. 14 at Greenleaf 7 p.m.Oct. 28 IDAHO CITY 7 p.m.

COUNCIL LUMBERJACKSToday TRI-VALLEY 7 p.m.Sept. 2 CASCADE 7 p.m.Sept. 9 at Power River 7 p.m.Sept. 16 ADRIAN (Ore.) 7 p.m.Sept. 23 at Salmon River 7 p.m.Sept. 30 at Tri-Valley 7 p.m.Oct. 14 at Garden Valley 4 p.m.Oct. 28 SALMON RIVER 7 p.m.

GARDEN VALLEYToday RIMROCK 4 p.m.Sept. 2 HORSESHOE BEND 4 p.m.Sept. 9 at Idaho City 7 p.m.Sept. 23 at Tri-Valley 7 p.m.Sept. 30 at Cascade 4 p.m.Oct. 7 at Salmon River 7 p.m.Oct. 14 COUNCIL 4 p.m.OCt. 28 TRI-VALLEY 4 p.m.

SALMON RIVERToday at NOTUS 7 p.m.Sept. 2 at LaCrosse-Washtucna 7 p.m.Sept. 9 COLTON (Wash.) 7 p.m.Sept. 17 TRI-VALLEY NoonSept. 23 COUNCIL 7 p.m.Oct. 7 GARDEN VALLEY 7 p.m.Oct. 21 at Tri-Valley 6 p.m.Oct. 28 at Council 7 p.m.

TRI-VALLEY TITANSToday at Council 7 p.m.Sept. 9 at Pine Eagle 4 p.m.Sept. 17 at Salmon River NoonSept. 23 GARDEN VALLEY 7 p.m.Sept. 30 COUNCIL 7 p.m.Oct. 21 SALMON RIVER 6 p.m.Oct. 28 at Garden Valley 4 p.m.

1A DIVISION I SCHEDULES

1A DIVISION II SCHEDULES


2010 RESULTSAug. 27 CALDWELL W, 41-0Sept. 3 at Twin Falls L, 14-0Sept. 17 EMMETT W, 28-21Sept. 24 at Skyview L, 29-28Oct. 1 MIDDLETON L, 14-7Oct. 7 at Kuna W, 38-6Oct. 15 MOUNTAIN HOME W, 45-27Oct. 22 BISHOP KELLY L, 49-17Oct. 29 at Columbia W, 31-22

TEAM FACTSCOACH: Scott Wooldridge, 6th season, 30-21 LAST YEAR: 5-4 overall, 4-3 4A SICPLAYOFFS: Did not qualify.

OFFENSERB Devan Lesley helped Nampa rank second last season in 4A SIC rushing (1,997 team yards). Now, coach Scott Wooldridge hopes QB Josh Bostrom can maintain the stellar rushing game with his speed and elusiveness — thus opening the passing game with his arm. (Nampa was fifth in conference passing last year.) The offense’s question mark is the O-line, but there are strong returners in the likes of left tackle JW Pierson, and center Christian Coronado. Right tackle Mason Gepford, a sophomore, has impressed Wooldridge.

DEFENSEMiddle linebacker Larry Hunsinger features a nose-for-the-ball awareness. The linebacker corps also includes Carlos Siguenza, Corbin Benjamin and Brett Ma, who’s a rover play-ing a linebacker-defensive back hybrid.Gepford will work in the Bulldogs’ trenches with Coronado, a nose guard. The Bulldogs pass defense needs to improve: Their 146.7 yards per game ranked near the conference cellar.

Devan Lesley, Sr., RBThe reigning 4A SIC rushing leader finished his junior year just 29 yards shy of the majestic 1,000-yard plateau.Lesley, who has “football speed,” uses his where-

withal and field vision to decide when to use power, and when to use his shifty ability, coach Scott Wooldridge says. “He’s starting to understand that he can run somebody over,” Wooldridge said. “He’s kind of grown into that.”

Adam Eschbach/IPT

Josh Bostrom caught 24 passes for 343 yards and four TDs last year. Now, he’s the dual-threat quarterback.

Josh Bostrom, Sr., QBHe’s an elusive athlete who ranked 10th last season in conference receiving yardage (24 catches, 343 yards). Now, he’ll orchestrate Nampa’s zone-read attack as its quarterback.

“You gotta respect his ability to run,” Wooldridge said. “Now, if they load the box up, maybe we’re able to put the ball up in the air a little bit more.“Josh can throw the ball, so we’re able to utilize our receivers.”

Paul Ma, Sr., CBHe’s 5-foot-7, similar to the mold of Bulldogs’ cornerbacks in past years: Not tall or blazing fast, but solid and sound positionally.“(Ma) started every game for us last year,”

Wooldridge says. “Fast kid. Strong kid. He does a good job on coverage — he’s a good, cover corner.” The coachable Ma has “done everything” Wooldridge has asked thus far.

Derrick Brothers, Sr., CBWooldridge says the “bright idea” arose last season during a junior varsity game: What are we doing? Why isn’t Derrick Brothers playing varsity?

Thus, Brothers shifted to varsity for the final six games, performing admirably.“Best decision we ever made,” Wooldridge says.Brothers might not intercept a lot of passes, but there won’t be a lot of people passing on him, Wooldridge notes.

‘We’re looking for a different outcome’

4A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: NAMPA BULLDOGSPLAYERS TO WATCH

2011 SCHEDULESept. 2 at Emmett 7 p.m.Sept. 9 TWIN FALLS 7 p.m.Sept. 16 COLUMBIA 7 p.m.Sept. 23 at Mountain Home 7 p.m.Sept. 30 at Middleton 7 p.m.Oct. 6 SKYVIEW 7 p.m.Oct. 14 CALDWELL 7 p.m.Oct. 21 at Bishop Kelly 7 p.m.Oct. 28 KUNA 7 p.m.


© 2011 Idaho Press-TribuneThe math didn’t compute.They were ranked second

in rushing offense. Third in scoring offense. Third in rushing defense. Usually, those denotations create success, especially in run-heavy high school football.

Yet, for the 2010 Nampa Bulldogs, their favorable rushing formulas equated to a fourth-place finish inside the 4A Southern Idaho Con-ference, thus ending their three-year succession of state playoff appearances.

“You can’t say shoulda, woulda, coulda,” shrugs Nampa coach Scott Wooldridge, who enters his sixth sea-son. “There’s some things we didn’t get done, as players and coaches.”

Things such as hold a 14-point fourth-quarter lead at Skyview — which ended in a one-point loss.

Things such as take care of

the football against Middle-ton — which ended in a seven-point loss.

Things such as dethrone conference champion Bishop Kelly — which ended in a lopsided loss.

Win one of those games, and the Bulldogs earn a post-season berth.

“It was very disappoint-ing,” says senior Devan Les-ley, who led the 4A SIC with 971 yards rushing last year. “We’re looking for a different outcome to our season. We want the championship, and we’re not going to stop until we get there.”

‘We want the championship,’ says 4A SIC rushing king

Scott Wooldridge


2010 RESULTSAug. 27 at Twin Falls L 30-26Sept. 3 ONTARIO (ORE.) W 44-22Sept. 17 COLUMBIA W 13-6Sept. 25 NAMPA W 29-28Oct. 1 at Bishop Kelly L 15-13Oct. 8 EMMETT W 28-13Oct. 15 at Kuna W 68-7Oct. 22 at Mountain Home W 37-16Oct. 29 at Middleton W 28-14* Nov. 5 at Sandpoint W 33-0* Nov. 12 vs. Blackfoot L 35-20* State playoff game

TEAM FACTSCOACH: David Young, 8th season, 34-41 LAST YEAR: 8-3 overall, 6-1 4A SICPLAYOFFS: Lost to Blackfoot in semifinals

OFFENSEThe Hawks look to run the ball a lot with Tanner Robison and Jacob Shaddox, but will have to replace four starters on the offensive line, as only Adam Rainsdon returns.However, coach David Young said last year’s line was groomed for pass blocking, while this year’s, he says, is a bit more tenacious.Zach Treinen steps in at quarterback to replace 4A SIC offensive player of the year Hunter Hyde.

DEFENSESkyview returns four defensive starters, all on the front seven. Kody Odom and Walker Jeffords are back at linebacker, while Ryan Rambo and Robert Davis are on the defensive line.The defensive backfield will be a bit more inexperienced, as no one comes into the a varsity start. “We’ve got to bring them along, but what better way to do it with a strong front seven,” Young said.

Tanner Robison, Sr., RB/LBRobison was a first-team all-conference running back a season ago, pick-ing up more than 850 yards on the ground.Coach David Young calls Robison the team’s

“spiritual leader,” saying the senior looked good at football camps all summer long.“He has vision. He runs with power, heart and soul. He’s good,” Young said.


The Skyview Hawks return four offensive and four defensive starters from their first state semifinal team since 2001.

Walker Ray, Jr., TE/LBRay was third in receiv-ing yards for the Hawks as a sophomore, but he seemed to always be there when the Hawks needed a big play. Against Columbia, he had a catch which set up

the game-winning touchdown, then scored the game winner the next week against Nampa.“When you run the play and you do what you’re taught, you kind of get in that zone, and that’s what he did in those big plays,” Young said.

Kody Odom, Sr., TE/LBOdom is a returning first team all-confer-ence linebacker and could be a candidate for conference defensive player of the year this season. Listed at 5-11, 210 pounds, Odom,

along with Gunnar Salois, give the Hawks a big presence at the inside linebacker position.

Walker Jeffords, Sr., TE/LBIf Odom and Salois give Skyview size on the inside, Jeffords pro-vides the speed on the outside. He was third in the 300 meter hurdles at the 4A Track and

Field State meet, and according to Young, runs the 40 meters in 4.6 seconds.“He’s 5-10, 185 pounds,” the coach said. “He looks good and he runs fast. He’ll be one of our premier pass rushers.”

Hawks try to keep momentum going

4A SOUTHERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: SKYVIEW HAWKSPLAYERS TO WATCH

2011 SCHEDULEAug. 26 at Fruitland 7 p.m.Sept. 2 KUNA 7 p.m.Sept. 9 MOUNTAIN HOME 7 p.m.Sept.16 at Emmett 7 p.m.Sept. 30 at Caldwell 7 p.m.Oct. 6 at Nampa 7 p.m.Oct. 14 MIDDLETON 7 p.m.Oct. 21 at Columbia 7 p.m.Oct. 28 BISHOP KELLY 7 p.m.


© 2011 Idaho Press-TribuneThe Skyview Hawks got a

taste of success last season, and now they are looking for more.

Skyview reached the play-offs for the first time since 2006 and beat Sandpoint to advance to its first 4A state semifinal since 2001.

This year, the Hawks are ready to pick up right where they left off.

“We need to pick up the Skyview flag and carry it,” senior running back Tanner Robison said. “We ended

good last year, we need to keep that rolling this season.”

The suc-cess from last year, coach David Young said, has helped to set a renewed sense of pride and higher ex-pectations around the team. He said he always had high expectations, but without results, it wasn’t always easy to get the kids to buy in.

“Without the proof it’s

hard to always believe that,” the coach said. “You’ll talk to kids about making the playoffs or going to win a state championship, but you haven’t done it for so long that they’re kind of like ‘yeah right, coach.’”

This summer, Young said, has been the best summer in his nine years as Skyview coach in terms of showings at camps and improvements in the weight room.

“The kids know to main-tain the high level the work needs to be done and they’ve been doing it,” he said.

Pride surrounds Skyview after playoff run in 2010

David Young

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© 2011 Idaho Press-TribuneThe Fruitland Grizzlies

enter the 2011 campaign as the reigning 3A state cham-pions, but if they are going to repeat, they will do it with a new group of players.

The Grizzlies lose tight end Tyler Graves, last sea-son’s 3A Snake River Valley conference offensive player of the year, as well as six of-fensive and three defensive first-team all-conference players.

“I don’t think you ever really replace those guys,” coach Bruce Schlaich said. “I think the tight end we have has a lot of the same qualities (Graves) had.”

Fruitland will return three two-way starters in

Joe Martarano, Scott Day-ley and Daulton Blackwell, a three-year starter at run-ning back.

Schlaich said the Griz-zlies could start as many as three sophomores on this year’s squad, but even with the inexperience, the team still expects to make it to the 3A state championship game for the sixth year in a row.

Weiser replaces top running backs: One of the most dangerous duos in the 3A SRV a year ago was Spencer Chandler and Tyrell Braun. The Weiser running backs rushed for nearly 3,000 yards combined during their senior seasons.

“You don’t just replace kids like that,” coach John Srholec said. “You have different kids that come in. Each year you have kids waiting in the wings and do something different and are good.”

Waiting in the wings for the Wolverines this year are Mitchell Svedin, who was Weiser’s third running back a year ago and

newcomers Justin Roberts, Louis Negrete and Nick Stevenson. Those four players, Srholec said, will compete for three spots at running back.

Despite losing their top running backs from last year’s 3A state semifinal squad, Weiser returns a lot of talent. Of the 28 play-ers on their roster, 18 are seniors and the Wolverines return nine starters on defense.

Payette looks to make playoff push: Injuries ravaged Payette last year, as the Pirates were the only team in the 3A SRV not to make the state playoffs. Now, the Pirates are healthy and are out to get back to the postseason.

“There was a little unfinished business from last year,” coach Troy Gleave said. “We thought we had the talent to do it, we just couldn’t get everyone on the field at the same time”

The Pirates return six starters on offense and five on defense, including Woody Thomas, who was an all-conference line-backer last year. Thomas, a senior, was also an all-conference running back two years ago, and rushed for 500 yards in three games last year, before an injury limited his role.


© 2011 Idaho Press-TribuneLarry Henggeler is confident. The first-year McCall football coach

obtains a core group who finished un-defeated on the junior varsity level. They’re rhythmic. They’re tenacious. And they’re ranked second among 2A Western Idaho Conference teams by the Idaho Press-Tribune coaches’ poll.

“I’m hoping some of the successes translate over,” said Henggeler, who doubled last year as an assistant varsity coach and head JV coach. “We’re feel-ing pretty good about what we have.”

What they have is a double-wing system that differs from traditional powerhouses such as Fruitland. Mc-Call prefers more of an aerial attack, a tweak allowing quarterback Matt Henggeler to find targets such as junior tight end Jeremy Springer, a 6-foot-6, 210-pounder with grit, hands and ath-leticism.

When they do elect to run, McCall

will turn to FB Todd Allen, a power-ful downhill runner, or running backs Zach Lowen and Tyler Henggeler.

Defensively, twin linebackers Blaze and Milo Decker will lead a 4-3 system that specializes in blitzing and making opposing offenses uncomfortable.

Chargers hope to be better prepared: A lack of competitiveness and experience translated into a one-win campaign in 2010 for Cole Valley Christian.

Several games could have been wins, but too often, the Chargers didn’t display the ever-so-needed game sense and nose-for-the-football instinctive ability.

This year, however, coach Bill Meier believes Cole Valley is better prepared.

“We’re starting to cross the bridge to where they know what they should be doing,” says Meier, whose program has 34 combined players on the junior varsity and varsity levels. “It’s just a better grip of the game this year.”

The Chargers return Avery Westendorf, a reigning all-con-ference first-team defensive end.

“Not much gets past him on the outside edge,” Meier says. Westendorf will play tight end, too. He’s part of a blocking

unit along with linemen Joel Hiatt (guard) and Aaron Burnside (center).

Together, they’ll try and open lanes for quarterback Mitch Vanderwiel and utility player Will Meier, who will play a variety of positions.

3A SNAKE RIVER VALLEY AND 2A WESTERN IDAHO CONFERENCE

Fruitland aims for repeat ‘We’re feeling pretty good’



2010 RESULTSAug. 27 MARSING W, 70-24Sept. 3 at Glenns Ferry W, 55-0Sept. 10 NAMPA CHRISTIAN W, 23-19Sept. 17 at Melba W, 48-0Sept. 24 WEISER L, 56-26Oct. 1 at Fruitland L, 44-2Oct. 8 HOMEDALE L, 25-21Oct. 22 at Payette W, 41-29*Oct. 29 at Kimberly L, 42-41*State playoff game

TEAM FACTSCOACH: Luke Platz, 1st season LAST YEAR: 5-4, 1-3 3A SRVPLAYOFFS: Lost to Kimberly in 1st round, 42-41

OFFENSECoach Luke Platz installs the Wing-T forma-tion. His play-selection breakdown is likely 70-percent pass, 30-percent run — an effort to keep sophomore quarterback Cesar Gonzalez in more comfortable situations. Senior offensive linemen Nick Bishop (6-6, 255 pounds) and Max Godina (5-10, 270) are expected to anchor the unit, and nurture sophomores Mason Shepherd and Dennis Nunez. Platz moves Jordan Condie (6-6, 205) from offensive line to tight end. “(Condie’s) a little raw, but the potential for him is very high,” Platz says.

DEFENSEPlatz will run formats such as a 4-4 and 4-3 cover 2. The strength is the front-seven. Parma features beefy linemen in the likes of Bishop and Godina, the latter of whom is a return-ing second-team all-conference selection. Condie plays defensive end, a position where he earned all-conference honorable mention status last season. The secondary includes seniors Casey Prescott and Spencer Wheeler.

David Hemmert, Sr., RB/LB-SPound-for-pound, he’s one of the strongest Panthers. He’ll play safety in a 4-3 cover 2 format, and will rotate upward when the Panthers feature their 4-4 format. “David is almost fearless,” coach Luke Platz says. “And that’s what I really like about him. It doesn’t matter how big, or who it is, he’ll stick his nose in. He’s not afraid at all.”


Trevor Kramer is gone. Now the offense belongs to QB Cesar Gonzalez. ”He’s a fiery little guy,” coach Luke Platz says.

Jake Crawford, Sr., RB/DBHe’s yet to play varsity football — it’s his first year wearing pads since junior high. But Platz says Crawford is an intelligent player who’s learning quickly. Crawford, who’s a 5-10, 170-pound speedster on both sides of the football, produces three-quarter lifts exceeding 800 pounds.“Pound-for-pound, he’s probably our strongest,”

Platz says. “What we’ve seen so far is good. He’s probably the top-two fastest on the team.”

Marco Gonzalez, So., RB/LBHis offseason weightlifting commitment added 15 pounds, Platz says. Gonzalez (5-10, 190) is more of a power runner — but he has the capability of mak-ing defenders miss tackles. Last year, he was an honorable mention all-confer-ence selection. This year, he’ll be a primary fixture in Platz’s Wing-T formation. “I expect Marco to be one of the main names every

week,” Platz says.

Cesar Gonzalez, So., QB/DBPlatz believes youth is a strength for Gonzalez, an energetic 5-7, 160-pound sophomore. “It’s not the same, real-calm, real-cool quarterback,” Platz says. “He’ll probably show emotion a little bit more, and maybe the kids can relate to it a little better.” Platz believes Gonzalez, who is primarily a runner, will develop his passing as he builds strength.

Coach Platz: There’s potential

3A SNAKE RIVER VALLEY CONFERENCE: PARMA PANTHERS PLAYERS TO WATCH

2011 SCHEDULEAug. 26 at Marsing 7 p.m.Sept. 2 at Glenns Ferry 7 p.m.Sept. 9 at Nampa Christian 7 p.m.Sept. 16 MELBA 7 p.m.Sept. 23 at Weiser 7 p.m.Sept. 30 FRUITLAND 7 p.m.Oct. 7 at Homedale 7 p.m.Oct. 21 PAYETTE 7 p.m.


© 2011 Idaho Press-TribuneAre the Panthers glory days gone?

The Idaho Press-Tribune coach’s poll says they’re the cellar dwellers of the 3A Snake River Valley conference.

Last season, they endured a paw-licking beating — fourth place in the conference. It was a surpris-ing development considering their successful past, a domi-nating 2A reign concluded by back-to-back state titles.

However, those faces who built the program into a conquering powerhouse cannot be relied upon for a rebound effort this year.

Coach Greg Asbury retired after four years (35-7). All-conference selections Randy Riley and Lance

Johnson graduated, too.Now the onus is upon a youthful

group, led by first-year coach Luke Platz.

“I think if we can get some good experience in our non-conference,

anything can happen,” says Platz.

“I think we have talent. It’s just how they handle the experience.”

The 3A SRV is loaded with defending state champion Fruitland and running pow-erhouses Weiser and Home-dale. But never disconsider Parma, a community ripe with talented athletes, as

evidenced by previous successes in football and wrestling.

“I think the potential is there,” Platz says, “and it will be fun to see them reach it, hopefully.”

Luke Platz

506806

109 GroveParma, ID

208-722-6373


2010 RESULTSAug. 27 MELBA W, 55-0 Sept. 3 NAMPA CHRISTIAN W, 58-21Sept. 10 at Vale (Ore.) W, 26-21Sept. 17 at New Plymouth W, 46-26Sept. 24 PAYETTE W, 39-14 Oct. 1 at Weiser L, 38-14Oct. 8 at Parma W, 25-21Oct. 15 FRUITLAND L, 24-14*Oct. 29 at Fruitland L, 54-30* State playoff game

TEAM FACTSCOACH: Matt Holtry, 3rd season, 9-8 LAST YEAR: 6-3, 2-2 3A SRVPLAYOFFS: Lost in 1st round to Fruitland, 54-30

OFFENSEEight starters return — including the entire offensive line, led by first-team all-confer-ence center Mark Williams. Then there’s right tackle David Clampitt, who’s 6-3, 320 pounds. Other key players are sophomore tailback Ali Garcia (6-1, 205) and senior receiver Talon Freelove (6-2, 170).

Trey Corta, Sr. , QB/DBHe’s garnered interest from Idaho State, Weber State, Montana State, and even Boise State — perhaps as a safety or slot receiver. Coach

Matt Holtry believes Corta is one of the top athletes in the state — speed, power and smarts. “He definitely has the capability of playing Division I football,” Holtry says. “I’m a believer in God, and I just say, ‘God will take care of the scholarships and the accolades.’”


“We’re in the rough. But we got some diamonds,” coach Matt Holtry said about Trey Corta and others.

Mark Williams , Sr. , Center The 6-foot, 220-pounder was first-team offense in the 3A SRV conference, second-team all-Idaho. Williams, who’s entering his third year as a starter, portrays vast knowledge

of his position by communicating defensive fronts. He consistently performs an accurate snap in the shotgun spread offense — and then thwarts blitzing linebackers.“He’s a true leader,” Holtry says. “Mark’s a key to our offensive line.”

Bodie Hyer, Sr., FB/LBA broken ankle in the third week against Ontario ended his 2010 season. But the 6-foot, 195-pound Hyer is now 100 percent.“He’s a brut, man,” Holtry

says. “He brings it — whether he’s carrying the ball, whether he’s blocking, whether he’s playing linebacker and running downhill and tackling people. He’s a beast. He’s that guy who you need.”

Brett Shanley, Sr., WRHoltry’s impressed by Shanley’s progression in a one-year period. He’ll be the No. 1 receiver now that all-confer-ence first-teamer Levi Elsberry graduated.

“Brett Shanley is going to surprise some peo-ple this year at wide receiver,” Holtry said.While some receivers fall down easily after a catch, the trend differs with Shanley.“He’s fast and runs through tackles,” Holtry says .“He’s a hard-nosed kid.”

‘We’re hoping to get some revenge’

3A SNAKE RIVER VALLEY CONFERENCE: HOMEDALE TROJANSPLAYERS TO WATCH

2011 SCHEDULEAug. 26 at Melba 7 p.m.Sept. 2 at Nampa Christian 7 p.m.Sept. 9 VALE (ORE.) 7 p.m.Sept. 16 NEW PLYMOUTH 7 p.m.Sept. 23 at Payette 7 p.m.Sept. 30 WEISER 7 p.m.Oct. 7 PARMA 7 p.m.Oct. 14 at Fruitland 7 p.m.


© 2011 Idaho Press-TribuneIt took a few months until Matt

Holtry could watch the tape.His Trojans had unbeaten

heavyweight Fruitland staggering on the ropes in their 3A state playoff matchup. They posed a prime-for-the-upset gaze. They led by nine at halftime.

Then came the fourth quarter, and it all disappeared: Within a 50-second span, Fruitland exploded for 21 unanswered points, turning a close game into a rout.

“That was a bittersweet one,” Holtry says. “Those kinds of losses never feel good, they never go away.

“We’re hoping to get some re-venge maybe this year.”

The Trojans boast the reigning 3A SRV offensive player of the year in the likes Trey Corta, a senior quarterback who masters the zone-read attack, as evidenced by his eye-popping touchdown totals (21 rush, six pass) and amassed yard-age (1,614 rush, 927 pass).

“He’s one of those athletes that don’t come around very often,” Holtry says.

Corta is an integral member of a budding group of seniors who have progressed under Holtry’s tutelage. As sophomores, they were 3-5. As juniors, they were 6-2.

This year, they hope to dethrone the giant known as Fruitland.

“This year is gonna be a different story,” Corta says.

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2010 RESULTSAug. 27 at Parma L, 70-24Sept. 3 VALLEY L, 15-3Sept. 10 GLENNS FERRY W, 20-19Sept. 24 NAMPA CHRISTIAN L, 47-0Oct. 1 MELBA W, 39-0Oct. 8 COLE VALLEY W, 28-6Oct. 15 at McCall-Donnelly L, 34-0Oct. 22 NEW PLYMOUTH L, 28-0*Oct. 29 at Kamiah L, 28-6* state playoff game

TEAM FACTSCOACH: Jamie Wood, 2nd year, 3-6 LAST YEAR: 3-6 overall, 2-3 2A WICPLAYOFFS: Lost to Kamiah in 1st round, 28-6

OFFENSEThe offense is built around quarterback Austin Williams, whose targets include wingback Justin Glenn and receiver Jason Galligan. Williams will handoff to running backs Austin Glenn and Jesus Lino, the latter of whom presents danger for opposing defenses if he gets around the corner. They’’ll run behind left tackle Pedro Carrillo, who earned second-team all-conference status last season. Other returning linemen include Grayson Kendall and Bernando Galvez, who shifts from taking handoffs to blocking.

DEFENSEThe 5-2 system has been scrapped for the 4-3. The front seven will be keyed by Galligan, a defensive end, and Carrillo — a defensive tackle who coach Jamie Wood labels as “an animal.” The secondary features Williams, who will play safety alongside either Tristan Jacobi and Dakota Hill. The cornerbacks are Miguel Leon and Hudson Sauer, a wingback who will primarily play defense to conserve energy.

Austin Glenn, Sr., RB/MLBWood labels Glenn as a smart runner with a solid burst of speed. He flashes 40-yard times of 4.6 or 4.7 seconds, depending upon the day.“He’ll be a force to be reckoned with,” coach Jamie Wood says. “Austin is built pretty good.”Defensively, Glenn moves from last year’s nose tackle position to middle linebacker.“He hits a ton,” Wood says. “He’s just a good

all-around player for us.”

Justin Glenn, Jr., LB/WINGBACKHis speed is similar to brother Austin: 4.6 or 4.7 in the 40-yard dash. With that, he’s a good route runner who can find creases in defenses.It was on full display this summer during a 7-on-7 camp at New Plymouth High, where he snatched numerous touchdowns.“He’s just going to be huge for us,” Wood says. “Him and the quarterback mesh pretty good.”

Austin Williams, So., QB/SHe was thrown into the fire last year when Wood started him as a freshman quarterback. Now, he’s a stockier, faster sophomore who has the green light: He can rollout and pass, or he can tuck the football and dash downfield. His choice.“We’re gonna use him as a runner and a thrower,” Wood says. “We’re spread out, and

we’re ready to run it.”

Charlie Galvez, So., LB/RBHe’ll see a few carries on offense, but Galvez is viewed as an integral piece to the Huskies defense. Therefore, he’ll primarily play strong-side linebacker in an effort to stay fresh.“He’s in the middle of all run plays,” Wood says. “If there’s a run play, and they get up off the ground, Charlie is there. He’s just a magnet.”

No. 1 coaches’ poll squad is ‘scary’

2A WESTERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: MARSING HUSKIES PLAYERS TO WATCH

2011 SCHEDULEAug. 26 PARMA 7 p.m.Sept. 2 at Valley 7 p.m.Sept. 9 at Glenns Ferry 7 p.m.Sept. 23 at New Plymouth 7 p.m.Sept. 30 NAMPA CHRISTIAN 7 p.m.Oct. 6 at Melba 7 p.m.Oct. 14 at Cole Valley 7 p.m.Oct. 21 MCCALL-DONNELLY 7 p.m.


© 2011 Idaho Press-TribuneThe sentiment across the Treasure

Valley says this is the Huskies’ year: They’re ranked No. 1 in the 2A Western Idaho Confer-ence, according to the Idaho Press-Tribune coaches’ poll.

“It’s gonna be a tough team to play this year,” says New Plymouth coach Porter Lacey. “They are pretty scary right now.”

Jamie Wood, the Marsing coach, welcomes the high ex-pectations. And he hopes last year’s 3-5 playoff qualifiers can climb the proverbial ladder to a league title.

But in the meantime, Wood pro-vides bitter reminders from last year’s season opener to his youthful team.

Start with his bright yellow T-shirt. The front reads, “Parma #1.” The backside says, “Parma hates Marsing.” It was Parma that crushed Marsing in

last year’s season opener, 70-24. And once again, it’s Parma listed as Marsing’s opening opponent.

“It’s gotta be burning these guys like it is us coaches,” he says.

Wood understands the concept of motivation. And he also understands the concept of building: Another playoff berth can build momentum toward next season. Then the

community gets involved. The stands fill. And adrenaline fills the players.

“And when these kids get to feel that, I believe that will take their game to another level,” Wood says.

Jamie Wood


2010 RESULTSAug. 27 at Homedale L 55-0Sept. 3 at Payette L 40-8Sept. 17 PARMA L 48-0Sept. 24 NEW PLYMOUTH L 40-0Oct. 1 at Marsing L 39-0Oct. 7 at Nampa Christian L 51-3Oct. 15 COLE VALLEY CHRISTIAN L 40-26Oct. 22 MCCALL-DONNELLY L 51-20

TEAM FACTSCOACH: Jordon Coffin, 1st season LAST YEAR: 0-8 Overall, 0-5 2A WICPLAYOFFS: Did not qualify

OFFENSEMelba will run out of the double tight forma-tion and will initially run the ball 80 percent of the time, coach Jordon Coffin says.“We’ll go from there and see where our strengths develop,” Coffin said.Coffin added that the Mustangs have a group of “partially experienced” returners, due to the fact that not many players started all eight games last year. A lot of the focus dur-ing the preseason, he said, is on the offensive line.At the quarterback position, Coffin said the competition is between junior Troy Richardson and sophomore Danny Talbot.

DEFENSEThe Mustangs will use multiple sets throughout the season, depending on what the situation is.Much like the offense, the focus on the defense, Coffin said, will be on the front line. However, who will be playing on that line is not yet set.“We have a lot of competition at this point, it’s something that we want to create,” Coffin said. “There’s not always a lot of numbers at 2A schools, but what we are going to do (is) the best players are going to play. I don’t care if that’s a 14-year old freshman or an 18-year old senior.”

2A WESTERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: MELBA MUSTANGS

2011 SCHEDULEToday HOMEDALE 7 p.m.Sept. 2 PAYETTE 7 p.m.Sept. 16 at Parma 7 p.m.Sept. 23 at McCall-Donnelly 7 p.m.Sept. 30 at New Plymouth 7 p.m.Oct. 6 MARSING 7 p.m.Oct. 14 NAMPA CHRISTIAN 7 p.m.Oct. 22 at Cole Valley Christian 3 p.m.

Chris Martinez, Sr. TE/DEMartinez played quar-terback for Melba last year, but switches to tight end this season.He’s put a lot of time in during the preseason, and, Coffin said, that will

turn to physical play.“He’s been leading by example,” the coach said. “Everything we’ve asked him to do, he does it. He does it 100 percent.”

Troy Richardson, Jr., QB/DE/TERichardson is in conten-tion for the starting quarterback job this fall, but even if he doesn’t get it, Coffin said the Mustangs plan on utilizing him in different

areas.“He’ll probably be a two-way player either way,” the coach said. “He’s playing tight end as well. He’s a big strong, fast athlete who is one of those ultimate competitors.”

Riley Crossley, Jr., OL/DLThe offensive and defen-sive line are two keys to the Mustangs’ success this season, Coffin said. Crossley, a junior, will be a leader on both. The coach said Crossley has

set a good example for the rest of the team.“He’s been everywhere he’s supposed to be,” Coffin said. “He’s been physical and has the right type of attitude, and I think a desire to be good.”

Anthony Herrara, Jr., C/DTHerrara will be another player Coffin said who will play a crucial role in the success of the Mustangs’ front line. The junior will be Melba’s center and

has done a lot to improve during the offseason.“He’s a guy that’s going to come in and do his work, but he’s a guy that’s developed over and over,” Coffin said. “He’s one of those guys that keeps getting better.”

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Melba aims to be ‘Mustang tough’


© 2011 Idaho Press-TribuneMost high school football

coaches had the entire winter to prepare for the upcoming season.

Jordon Coffin had less then two months.

Hired the second week of June, Coffin immediately be-gan building a new culture among the Melba High foot-ball team, which went 0-8 a season ago. He wants to make Melba “Mustang tough.”

“I think kids get excited about it,” Coffin said. “I think they’re starting to

rally around it. We’re try-ing to build the Mustang Country. That takes a lot of hard work and effort and they’re starting to buy into it, I believe.”

Coffin took over a team which he said was in limbo due to the late start and the long transition process. But he said as soon as the players found out what the plan was, a solid percentage turned

out for summer workouts.“With change brings ex-

citement,” he said. “I think that’s a natural thing. There’s been some great years in Melba High, there’s been some great traditions.”

And even though it’s only been a couple of months since he’s arrived, players are already starting to notice a difference in the program.

“He’s brought a lot of dis-cipline to us,” senior Chris Martinez said. “We, in the past, didn’t work as hard and he’s (kept us) disciplined. We’ve been working a lot harder.”

New coach looks to build new attitude within program

Jordon Coffin


The Melba football team looks to move past a winless season in 2010. The Mustangs welcome new coach Jordon Coffin, who was previously an assistant coach under his father, Layne, at Vallivue.


2010 RESULTSAug. 26 Glenns Ferry W 43-14Sept. 3 at Homedale L 58-21Sept. 10 at Parma L 23-19Sept. 24 Marsing W 47-0Oct. 1 at McCall-Donnelly W 10-8Oct. 7 Melba W 51-3Oct. 15 at New Plymouth L 48-14Oct. 23 at Cole Valley Christian W 60-0* Oct. 29 Grangeville W 50-31* Nov. 5 at Declo L 30-28* State Playoff Game

TEAM FACTSCOACH: Bill Barr, 2nd season, 6-4 LAST YEAR: 6-4, 4-1 2A WICPLAYOFFS: Lost to Declo 30-28 in quarterfinals

OFFENSEUnlike the trend towards spread, pass-happy offenses, the Trojans will attack foes with a formation that puts a premium on backs with the Wing-T.“It’s a four-back offense so it’s going to be difficult to key on one player,” coach Bill Barr said.While one of the keys will be line play, led by Van Grouw and Gill, other key components include top returning running back Austin Holton (5-9, 170), receiver Jeff Butkus (6-0, 172) and quarterback Jake Campbell (5-9, 148), all seniors who give the Trojans three of their four Wing-T options.

DEFENSEWhen opponents have the ball, Nampa Christian will rely on a base 4-3 look, but one that will adjust to a variety of offensive threats the Trojans will see during their season.“That’s what I like about the defense, it’s flexible,” Barr said.Again, size will be an issue, but speed will be a benefit for the Trojans, as Barr says “what we do is, we’re a gap-control defense.”

Jeff Butkus, Sr., WR/DBA second-team all-conference pick, Butkus will be a threat both in the passing game and an option running the ball.

“Jeff brings a lot of speed,” coach Bill Barr said. “He’s a good athlete, he’s a good skilled player so he’ll help us in the secondary and he’s a good running back.”

Mike Stetson/IPT

Jake Campbell enters his second season as the starting quarterback for Nampa Christian.

Jake Campbell, Sr., QB/DBBarr says the Trojans second-year quar-terback is a great competitor who has a great knowledge of the Wing-T offense, and how to

make it click.“Great footwork, very disciplined kid, “ Barr said, “... he throws well on the run, he’s real shifty. He’s not a big kid but he’s quick.“He’s not only a threat as run or pass, he’s a dual threat there.”

Austin Holton, Sr., RB/LBAnother second-team all-conference pick, Holton is the Trojans top return-ing back having averaged more than 100 yards a game

last year. In the spring, he won the 200-meter state title in track.“His speed’s getting better and better, he’s bigger, he’s faster, he’s going to have a great year,” Barr said.

Nick Gill, Jr., OL/LBGill is one of two returning lineman and will switch from center to guard to help anchor the Wing-T offense.“Nick is probably as

tough as a lineman as I’ve had in years,” Barr said.

Trojans look to continue success

2A WESTERN IDAHO CONFERENCE : NAMPA CHRISTIAN TROJANSPLAYERS TO WATCH

2011 SCHEDULEToday at Glenns Ferry 7 p.m.Sept. 2 Homedale 7 p.m.Sept. 9 Parma 7 p.m.Sept. 23 Cole Valley Christian 7 p.m.Sept. 30 at Marsing 7 p.m.Oct. 7 McCall-Donnelly 7 p.m.Oct. 14 at Melba 7 p.m.Oct. 21 New Plymouth 7 p.m.


© 2011 Idaho Press-TribuneThey’ve built a tradition of

success at Nampa Christian on the football field, and the Trojans are set to add to that tradition.

Now with systems firmly in place under second-year head coach Bill Barr, the Trojans open the season today at Glenns Ferry, and look to build off a trip to the state playoff quarterfinals a year ago.

But, two hurdles face the Trojans, starting with num-bers.

“We’re short on numbers like anything else,” said Barr,

who adds that about 30 kids are out for the team, some play-ing football for the first time, “... so it’s difficult to go two-ways.”

“But these Nampa Chris-tian kids are hard workers, they’re very hard workers.”

A lack of numbers means a lot will be determined by the health of team as the season progress, but Barr adds that he and his coaching staff are working players at multiple

positions to create some depth to fight possible injuries.

The second major issue is experience on the line, as the Trojans return senior Rick Van Grouw (6-foot, 183 pounds) and junior Nick Gill (5-10, 200), who each will play guard. Gill was a second-team all-confer-ence center last year.

While the line might lack experience, Barr does feel good about the foundation up front that is built on Van Grouw and Gill to lead the team’s Wing-T offense.

“In the Wing-T, this offense, you have good guards you have a really good offense,” he said.

Nampa Christian looks to overcome low turnout

Bill Barr


2010 RESULTSAug. 27 at Payette W, 32-14Sept. 3 at Nyssa (Ore.) W, 34-6Sept. 17 HOMEDALE L, 46-26Sept. 24 at Melba W, 40-0Oct. 1 COLE VALLEY W, 36-0Oct. 7 MCCALL-DONNELLY W, 28-0Oct. 15 NAMPA CHRISTIAN W, 48-14Oct. 22 at Marsing W, 28-0*Oct. 29 OROFINO W, 61-7*Nov. 5 at Kamiah W, 41-14*Nov. 12 MALAD L, 42-28* State playoff game

TEAM FACTSCOACH: Porter Lacey, 3rd season, 14-5 LAST YEAR: 9-2 overall, 5-0 2A WICPLAYOFFS: Lost in semifinals to Malad, 42-28

OFFENSESenior QB Raymond Evans’ No. 1 receiver is Dave Maillard. Kacee Troutt, one of the team’s best athletes according to coach Porter Lacey, shifts into the slot from running back (58 rushes, 379 yards, 5 TDs last year). He’s a tall, physical target who gains yards after the catch. Also returning is Jake Henggeler, a block-ing and catching tight end who earned all-conference honorable mention status. “I think our team is bringing a lot of speed,” Evans said.

DEFENSEThe 3-5 base defense features linemen such as Henggeler, Luis Castro and John Cushman. Six linebackers fit into a similar hard-nosed mold, led by Justin Smith, an honorable mention all-conference linebacker. Then there’s versatile junior Tyler Filler and hard-hitting Nick Weeks. Evans, a safety, is a reigning first-team all-conference selection (4 INTs, 54 tackles).

Raymond Evans, Sr., QB/FSHis athleticism is through the roof, as evidenced by three con-secutive state wrestling championships.As a quarterback, he’s

impressed with his ability to improvise and limit mistakes. “I don’t want him to run very much,” coach Porter Lacey says. “We’re gonna try and keep him stretching out the defense on the edges.“The less hits he can take, the better off we’re gonna be. We’re gonna try and get rid of the ball quicker.”


Twenty percent of Raymond Evans’s catches last year went for scores (30 catches, 6 TDs). Now he’s a quarterback.

Nick Weeks, Sr., LB/FBHe was a second-team all-conference linebacker last season. His quick-ness and loose-freestyle pursuit factors into bone-jarring hits. “I wanna say he’s the hardest hitter on our

team,” Lacey says. “He brings that excite-ment: Get a big hit, get us fired up. It’s kind of a big deal for our defense.”

Justin Smith, Sr., LB/OLHe’s a physical middle linebacker who tena-ciously attacks the run.“It’s hard to run on him,” Lacey says. “His mental toughness is something that you don’t see much

in high school. The kid’s tough. That’s prob-ably his biggest asset.”Smith will also start at right guard.“You just gotta play hard-nosed football,” Smith says. “Stick your head down, and do your job.”

Tucker Gerdes, Sr., OLGerdes earned all-con-ference honorable men-tion status last season.“He is a veteran on the offensive line,” Lacey says. “He’s not going to make mistakes very often.

“He’s pretty solid for us. I’d say his leadership is his biggest strength.”Agility is a quality attribute for the 180-pound Gerdes. As a guard, he displays the athleticism while pulling to the outside. He also plays center.

‘Play with more heart than skill’

2A WESTERN IDAHO CONFERENCE: NEW PLYMOUTH PILGRIMSPLAYERS TO WATCH

2011 SCHEDULEAug. 26 PAYETTE 7 p.m.Sept. 2 NYSSA 7 p.m.Sept. 16 at Homedale 7 p.m.Sept. 23 MARSING 7 p.m.Sept. 30 MELBA 7 p.m.Oct. 7 at Cole Valley Christian 7 p.m.Oct. 14 at McCall-Donnelly 7 p.m.Oct. 21 at Nampa Christian 7 p.m.


© 2011 Idaho Press-TribuneThree straight trips to the

2A state playoffs. Two consecutive appear-

ances in the semifinals. It’s evident New Plymouth

High and football success have become synonymous among Gem State discussions — a form of branding created by the field generals of the past.

“It gives us kind of a name, and gives guys something they gotta try and live up to,” senior Justin Smith says. “I think that’s given the older

guys more and more fire, and it’s given the younger guys something to wanna shoot for.”

If the Pilgrims continue the trend, it will be without graduated quarterback Brady Harris, the reigning 2A WIC player of the year. He amassed 5,856 yards through three seasons. Last year, he accounted for 39

touchdowns (27 passing, 12 rushing).

He’s one of several all-con-ference players who depart via graduation, which leaves reigning 2A WIC coach of the year Porter Lacey with a relatively young squad.

Smith, however, says cour-age and 110-percent effort can offset losses in personnel.

“It’s a young team, but faster than we’ve ever been,” Smith says. “It’s going to be a learning experience.

“We’re just going to have to play with more heart than skill.”

Back-to-back state semifinalists begin post-Harris era

Porter Lacey


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2010 RESULTSSept. 10 Idaho City L 48-12Sept. 17 Idaho City L 34-22Sept. 24 Wilder L 46-8Oct. 1 at Cascade L 46-12Oct. 8 Rimrock L 60-34Oct. 22 Notus L 53-8Oct. 29 at Horseshoe Bend L 46-0

TEAM FACTSCOACH: Doug Anders, 1st season LAST YEAR: 0-7, 0-6 1A District III Division IPLAYOFFS: Did not qualify

OFFENSEWith a new coach, players and fans should expect a new system, but coach Doug Anders admits that he’s still working the details out, adjusting plays he created while an 11-man assistant to the 8-man game.A more physical style, though, will translate to the offense in more ground-game and less spread and pass formations.“We’ll try and run the ball,” Anders said.Key to the run game will be junior returning fullback/tailback Adam Dewberry, along with senior returning quarterback Brandon Fisk.

DEFENSEWhile coach Anders works on teaching his team to be more physical, the impact on defense will be a bit different.“We’ll probably play off the line a little bit and try and utilize our speed a bit more,” he said, adding, “with their speed, I was surprised with how many points they gave up last year.”Senior returning tackle Jonathon Post will anchor the line, junior Troy Watkins, a transfer from Parma, will lead the lineback-ing core and junior returner Dalton Penrod will be one of the team’s top defensive backs.

1A DISTRICT III DIVISION I: GREENLEAF GRIZZLIES

2011 SCHEDULESept. 9 Jordan Valley (Ore.) 4 p.m.Sept. 16 Horseshoe Bend 4 p.m.Sept. 23 at Idaho City 7 p.m.Sept. 30 at Wilder 4 p.m.Oct. 7 Cascade 4 p.m.Oct. 14 Rimrock 4 p.m.Oct. 21 Union (Ore.) 4 p.m.Oct. 28 at Notus 7 p.m.

New coach brings new attitude to Greenleaf

Brandon Fisk, Sr, QBFisk played under center last year, bringing a season of experience with him, which coach Doug Anders said is invaluable.“He never really got much guid-ance last year,” the new coach said.“He can handle the ball and move it around well in the veer and option,” Anders added.

Jonathon Post, Sr., C/DTPost is a returning senior, who Anders said is “the most coach-able kid,” and adds that Post has been working hard in the preseason on his speed.“Since he’s been working he’s shaved a second off his 40 time.”

Troy Watkins, Jr., OL/LBThe transfer from Parma is the most playing experience on the team, and already is familiar with

Anders, who helped the Panthers last season.“He can hit, he’s one of our most physical players,” the new coach said.

Dalton Penrod, Jr., WR/TE/OLB/CBAnother returner, Anders said he’s developing both speed and toughness, and is a great example of the new hard working attitude of the Grizzlies.“He’s got a great motor and is becoming more physical,” Andres said.

Adam Dewberry, Jr., FB/TB/LBThe team’s returning fullback will lead a deep ground game, and likely will be the featured back in the Grizzlies’ attack.“He was probably the brightest spot on last year’s team,” Andres said.

PLAYERS TO WATCH


© 2011 Idaho Press-TribuneLast season, the Griz-

zlies battled more than just foes on the field, they battled just to get on the field.

Low numbers led to a late start for Greenleaf’s football team, but the same can not be said this year as new coach Doug Anders brings a new at-titude and excitement to the GFA sidelines.

“I think they’ve shown a great attitude and they’re excited and working hard,” Anders said of his team, which numbered 14 a week into practice.

The first-year Grizzlies coach believes he’ll have 16 players by the time the season starts on Sept. 9,

when GFA hosts Jordan Valley (Ore.), giving him optimism that his team will not only compete in varsity, but will be able to field a junior varsity squad this year, as well.

Of course, where the team needed some extra time to fill its roster last season, this year Anders is using the extra prep time getting his team adjusted to a new coach, and adjusting himself.

A former assistant coach at Homedale and Parma who also coached seventh-grade football at Nampa Christian and served as a track coach at Parma, Anders admits he is developing his own plays and system, and adapting both to 8-man football.

But the new coaches

time coaching track and younger players has helped him in one adjust-ment – teaching the Griz-zlies to be more physical.

“We’re working on being more physical,” he said. “... We’ve been doing a lot of hitting. Hopefully we can avoid injures, but we’re kind of beating each other up.”

RETURNING ALL-CONFERENCE PLAYERS FOR CASCADE, HORSESHOE BEND, IDAHO CITY AND RIMROCK

First TeamName School Position GradeChris Ferroni Cascade DL Sr.Jake Carpenter Horseshoe Bend OL/DL Sr.DJ Hazzard Idaho City RB Sr.

Second TeamName School Position GradeJacob Schimpf Cascade QB Sr.Jimmy Gridley Cascade DB Sr.Colter Lowe Horseshoe Bend LB Sr.Oscar Gomez Rimrock P/DB Sr.Jorge Mandragon Rimrock DL Sr.


2010 RESULTSAug. 27 at Salmon River W 48-20Sept. 2 MEADOWS VALLEY W 62-16Sept. 17 DIETRICH W 36-6Sept. 24 at Rimrock W 52-14Oct. 1 IDAHO CITY W 65-20Oct. 8 HORSESHOE BEND W 48-0Oct. 15 CASCADE W 58-8Oct. 22 at Greenleaf W 53-8Oct. 29 at Wilder W 62-34* Nov. 5 GRACE L 52-48* State Playoffs

TEAM FACTSCOACH: Brad Huter, 1st season LAST YEAR: 9-1, 6-0 1A District III Division IPLAYOFFS: Lost to Grace in quarterfinals

OFFENSEThe only starter returning on the offense will be lineman Manuel Luna. After that, the Pirates will replace the other seven starters. Bryan Frahm will take over as the starting quarterback, while his top targets will be wideouts Casey Wilbur and Steven Canales. Michael Barragan and Devin Krasowski will be in charge of running the ball back. Both will also serve as backups to Frahm in the quarterback position.

DEFENSENotus coach Brad Huter isn’t naming his defensive starters before the Pirates’ opener against Salmon River, but did say the Pirates would be running out of the 3-2-3 formation.“The less the other team knows, the better, I figure,” Huter said. “I figure after the first game everyone’s going to have film of us in one form or another.”Tim Dranginis, a longtime head coach and athletic director at Notus, returns to take over the Pirates defense. Frahm is the Pirates only returning starter, but Huter said the defense is 10 to 11 players deep with solid guys who can hit.

1A DISTRICT III DIVISION I: NOTUS PIRATES

2011 SCHEDULEToday SALMON RIVER 7 p.m.Sept. 2 at Dietrich 7 p.m.Sept. 16 WILDER 7 p.m.Sept. 23 at Harper (Ore.) 4 p.m.Sept. 30 RIMROCK 7 p.m.Oct. 7 at Idaho City 7 p.m.Oct. 14 at Horseshoe Bend 7 p.m.Oct. 21 at Cascade 3:30 p.m.Oct. 28 GREENLEAF 7 p.m.

Bryan Frahm, Jr., QB/LBFrahm was a defensive end and the backup quarterback last year. He got significant playing time under center in the Pirates win against Wilder a year ago. He

enters the season as a full-time starter.“He seems to be pretty calm in the pocket, he has a good, strong arm,” coach Brad Huter said. “He’s fast. When he runs the ball, he’s going to run it hard.”

Michael Barragan, Sr., RB/SAfter three years of waiting in the wings, Barragan finally gets his chance to start at run-ning back. “He is very smart, very shifty,” Huter said. “He

can hit a hole and it breaks and he goes right on through. He has a lot of natural instinct at running back.”Huter said Barragan, who was named one of the Pirates’ four captains, has stepped up and accepted a leadership role.

Devin Krasowski, So., RB/LBIf there’s one word to describe Krasowski, it’s tough. Huter says he once played through an entire game in junior high with a broken col-larbone.

“He’s probably one of the toughest kids around,” Huter said. “(The roster) says he weighs 160, but it might be a little on the heavy side. It doesn’t matter, he’s going to hit you like a freight train.”

Manuel Luna, Sr., OL/DLLuna is one of three seniors on the Notus roster, and the only one to get significant playing time last year. He was a first-team All-1A WIC Division I selection on

the offensive line.“He has all of our experience,” Huter said. “I’m probably going to be starting a sopho-more and freshman next to him. It’s his job to teach them as quickly as possible.

PLAYERS TO WATCHAfter league title, Pirates start anew


Steven Canales is one of the many new starters for the Notus Pirates, which lost 10 seniors from 2010.


© 2011 Idaho Press-TribuneWhen the Notus football

team takes the field this season, there will be little resemblance to the Pirates team that went 9-0 in the regular season and won the 1A District III Division I title in 2010.

Just two starters — one on offense and one on de-fense — return from a team which lost 10 seniors and only has three on this year’s squad, meaning a lot of

younger play-ers will be getting their first varsity experience.

“I have faith in them,” Notus coach Brad Huter said. “You can’t be scared to put them in there. You can’t be scared. You just got to un-derstand who the player is and can they handle varsity action?”

Huter himself, is in a new role, taking over as the head coach. Huter also serves as the school’s athletic direc-tor, girls basketball coach and track and field coach.

And while many of the faces playing the big roles may be new, the program goals remain the same.

“Everyone still wants to win,” quarterback Bryan Frahm said. “That’s our goal still. We still want to make it to state and have a good season.”

Defending conference champions start with new cast

BradHuter


2010 RESULTSSept. 10 at Adrian (Ore.) L 80-34Sept. 17 at Rimrock L 22-18Sept. 24 at Greenleaf W 46-8Oct. 1 at Horseshoe Bend W 34-20Oct. 8 Union (Ore.) W 66-16Oct. 15 Idaho City L 36-24Oct. 22 at Cascade W 30-22Oct. 29 Notus L 62-34

TEAM FACTSCOACH: Kyle DalSoglio, 3rd season, 9-6 LAST YEAR: 4-4, 3-3 1A District III Division IPLAYOFFS: Did not qualify

OFFENSEWilder’s Fly-sweep offense starts out of the shotgun and looks to spread defenses out, opening up the middle of the field and exploiting some misdirection.It’ll be a much-more balanced attack then is typical for the run-oriented 8-man ranks. “I’d like to run the ball 30 times a game and I’d like to throw the ball 20 times a game at least,” coach Kyle DalSoglio said.Returning backup quarterback Kass Rivera (6-0, 230) and freshman AJ Castellanos (5-6, 158), who each will take snaps.

DEFENSEOn defense, Wilder will use a 3-3-2 formation, with the team’s strength upfront.“Our D-line is going to be tremendous and our linebackers are going to be very good as well,” the Wildcat coach said, “and we’ve got good depth.”Keys will be Rocha and all-conference junior defensive end Jesus Zavala (5-11, 236), who DalSoglio hopes will shift from their line posi-tion to linebacker, freeing them up run and make more plays. Increased depth and experience might make that possible, as 6-4, 170-pound returner junior Casey Dillon will likely take over at one end position after being the team’s second-leading tackler at defensive back a season ago.

Antonio Rocha, Sr., RB/WR/DEA first-team all-confer-ence pick at running back as a junior, Rocha will be a key on both sides of the ball and could either be an anchor on the defensive

line at end, or a playmaker at linebacker.“He’s a great athlete and I’d like to have him running around,” coach Kyle DalSoglio said.


Wilder quarterback AJ Castellanos will attempt to lead the Wildcats to the playoffs for the first time since 1998.

Jesus Zavala, Jr., C/DE/LBA first-team all-confer-ence defensive lineman at end and tackle, Zavala also is the offensive line anchor at center.“He’s going to be a D-end (or) linebacker this

year,” DalSoglio said.

Jaime Miramontes, Jr., RB/LBThe junior was a honor-able mention pick at running back and will help both on offense and defense, as a line-backer.“He’s going to be a real

good player,” DalSoglio said. “He’s got a lot of speed and he’s real good with the ball.”

Casey Dillon, Jr., P/TE/DEThe team’s all-confer-ence punter also was a second-team all-league pick at cornerback for the Wildcats and will help out at end on both sides of the ball.

“He has tremendous effort, he’s all-out all the time,” DalSoglio said. “And at 6-4, he’s kind of a standout looking player, just having that size at the 8-man level.”

Wildcats set to take next step

1A DISTRICT III DIVISION I: WILDER WILDCATSPLAYERS TO WATCH

2011 SCHEDULESept. 9 at Horseshoe Bend 4 p.m.Sept. 16 at Notus 7 p.m.Sept. 23 Rimrock 4 p.m.Sept. 30 Greenleaf 4 p.m.Oct. 7 Horseshoe Bend 4 p.m.Oct. 14 at Union (Ore.) 8 p.m.Oct. 23 at Idaho City 7 p.m.Oct. 28 Cascade 4 p.m.


© 2011 Idaho Press-TribuneThird-year coach Kyle

DalSoglio has been build-ing a program, and plenty of excitement, at Wilder High with hard work.

That hard work’s paid off in terms of numbers out for the team, but also in wins on the field. Now, the Wildcats look to cash in with their first state playoff berth since the fall of 1998, when they advanced to the state semifinals.

“The attitudes and the positive teamwork type of characteristics were not present (in the past) and I think that we’re starting to turn it around,” DalSoglio

said. “Now, pretty much the whole team is on the same page and we’re all going at the same speed in the same direction.”

The Wildcats have been on the cusp of the playoffs the last two season, but just short. Now, with numbers up from 16 players last fall to 23 this year, which includes losing just two seniors, DalSoglio and the Wildcats are optimistic about what they can do.

“We’re right there on the bubble, and there’s no ques-

tion we’re a lot better team this year then we have been,” the third-year Wilder coach, who played and was an assis-tant coach at Eastern Oregon University.

The Wildcats definitely have plenty going for them, too: Depth, experience, speed and size according to DalSoglio.

“We’re a pretty skilled group,” he said, “we’re going to be really fast, that’s one of our things this year, we’ve got a lot of speed offensively and defensively.

“(On the line) this year we’re looking really, really good. We’re going to be 230 (pounds), 230 and 190 up-front. For 8-man that’s really good.”

Wildcats on the prowl for first playoff berth in 13 years

Kyle DalSoglio


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ipt high school kickoff coverage 2011

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