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Nov 23, 2008 Check Out previous Blogs
WE're now down to 14 teams that are still playing football in 2008. Some passing (pardon the pun) thoughts on some of these teams and some of the teams that have been eliminated but provided us much excitement this year.
Blue Springs South was really pounded in Week 1 on national Television to Rockhurst. It didn't look promising at that point. After developing the receiving corp, establishing a stout defense and having an elite QB (Blaine Dalton) to lead the way, the Jaguars are looking to win their 2nd title in 3 seasons. It is a long season...how easy it is to "write off" a team after a September loss.
The Hazelwood Central Hawks feel the karma. In 1996 the Hawks won the Suburban North conference, in 1996 the Hawks won the semifinal game on their own field, in 1996 Central won STATE. The Hawks under Coach Richard Nixon have won the Sub North and beat Fox last Saturday on their field 31-6, so.....will it equal a STATE title as in 96 ?
Speaking of Fox...what a turnaround ! Coach Gianino has established in a very short time a rejuvenated football program. Coasting through regular season, when the Warriors fell to Oakville in District, some thought it was jsut a soft schedule that had presented so many wins for Fox High. Fox thought otherwise. The Warriors beat SLUH (long time post-season tradition), beat the 2007 Class 6 2nd place team (Mehlville Panthers) and then avenged their earlier loss Oakville during their successful run. Even during the loss, it was very obvious that this team had a strong, well drilled offensive line. The defense could, and did, run to the ball well. The athleticism of Hazelwood Central (coupled with equally good coaching) was too much to overcome on this day. Kudo's to the likely Coach of the Year- Nick Gianino !
Speaking of turn-arounds....how about Raytown South! In 2006, they were 2-8, in 2007 4-7, now this year in the STATE, Class 5 Championship. Mounting some furious rallies during post season games, using a quick strike opportunistic offense, this team enjoys the pleasure of experiencing its 1st trip to the Football Championships ! Our hats are tipped to you for your achievements !
Hazelwood East has been a state contender for decades. Rick Gorzynski led the Spartans to the finals on many occasions. Still powerful over the past 5 years, suddenly the Spartans were seeking a coach in mid-summer when an Assistant Principal position was filled by the former Head Coach. Stepping in rather late, but surely not without knowledge, skill and experience, Mike Jones brought this team along all through 2008. The running game developed, the pass game could be dominant and the defense was its usual hard-hitting, fleet-footed, stingy type of unit that the Spartans had come to expect. HE was one of the first teams to really run the ball on the Jackson Indians all year long. The special teams provided the East offense with terrific field position on many occasions and the offense responded with TD scores. Will it be the upstart Cardinals of Raytown South or the experienced playoff team the Spartans in class 5? Much more post season football ...continue to next page...
A couple players will now move on to the collegiate ranks since their teams have been eliminated. Who could forget the slashing running of Montee Ball of Timblerland, the strong arm of Nathan Scheelhaase of Rockhurst, the MR Do-it-all offense of Ft Zumwalt West- TJ Moe, the slick QB of the Jefferson City Jays Brad Allen who was trying to match his Dad's State Championship with the Jays. Maplewood's Bryant Allen was so graceful and yet electric in his returns all year long. The outstanding Senior class of Blair Oaks that hung up 2 state banners. The powerful, hard crunching, time consuming offense of the run-oriented Chillicothe Hornets. James Gladstone grabbing balls out of the air from all angles for the Vianney Golden Griffins. Maurice Alexander's fierce speed and strength as he is rushing the passer for the Eureka Wildcats. These are just a few that pop into my mind...do you have any special seniors who have "hung up" their high school pads ? Let me know at bryan@prepcasts.com
As Helias and Webb City prepare for a terrific Class 4 Championship game (I really think this will be the best game), MICDS could not overcome the loss of their entire starting backfield, both ILB (same guys as the backs), 3 offensive line starters as they were toppled by a strong Helias team in the quarters. Congrats to the staff and new coach, Josh Smith for working hard to try to make it work and not letting the losses of players be the story.
Maplewood breezed through its regular season and district competition without even breaking a sweat (or so it seemed). All were impressed! Many were surprised, maybe shocked, when Clark County outmuscled them and forced several 3rd quarter turnovers that led to the Blue Devils tasting defeat for the first time in 08. Coach Harris has his program rolling now...off season 7on 7's vs class 5 and 6 schools, a strong staff and well trained, talented athletes. We look forward to continued Blue Devil success.
What about 0-7 Oakville winning 4 straight games before losing their rematch to Fox in the STATE quarterfinals? With so many underclassmen returning, including QB Joe Plassmeyer, we don't think the Tigers will sneak up on anyone in 09.
Somehow, most of us on the east side of the State sensed that Rockhurst would be punching the ticket for the Dome. A very good Jaguar team of Blue Springs South had other plans. Don't worry....I don't think it'll be long before the Hawklets are once again in the Championship program at the Dome.
We'll wrap up football next week as we review the games at the dome....how about you...any special memories from your teams ? send them to bryan@prepcasts.com
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