E2 Thursday, Aug.

23, 2007 2007 PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW The Lima News

INSIDE:
Special Features
Cover story ....................E3
The Most Wanted players in the area
Laying blame.................E4
It’s not always the coach’s fault
Strong tradition ...........E18
Why the MAC dominates
Teams to beat .....E6,10,18
NWC, WBL and MAC predictions
Composite Schedule....E14
Week-by-week breakdown of games
Need2know .................E15
Area athletes tackle tough questions

Team Previews
Ada................................E8
Zac Dysert triggers the high-octane
air attack.
Allen East ......................E9
Mustangs’ opponents will see plenty
of running back Blaine Schmitt.
Anna............................E22
The offense is built around running
back Cory Sniffen.
Bath.............................E11
The Wildcats have key holes to fill at
key positions.
Bluffton .........................E7 KELLI CARDINAL • The Lima News
Pirates’ spread attack hopes to
bounce back.
Celina..........................E17
The Bulldogs are building around

10 GAMES YOU
quarterback Derek Gagle.
Coldwater ....................E19
Experienced Cavaliers aim for 11th
straight playoff appearance.
Columbus Grove ............E9
Heath Nickles is latest Columbus
Grove feature back.
Cory-Rawson ...............E22
Hornets will lean heavily on young,
skilled players.
Crestview.......................E6

The Knights are banking on a
veteran cast.
Defiance ......................E17
Adam Wagner returns at quarterback
for third season.
Delphos Jefferson ..........E7
Derek Shivley will power Wildcats’
wing-T.
Delphos St. John’s........E20
Blue Jays will turn to defense while
young offense switches to shotgun.
Elida............................E10
First-year coach Jason Carpenter
makes changes.
Fort Recovery ..............E19
Veteran quarterback Toby Metzger
leads Indians.
Hardin Northern...........E23
Run-happy Polar Bears will unleash
Nathan Bame.
Indian Lake .................E27
A Lakers’ veteran squad is looking for
breakthrough season.
Kenton.........................E17
Wildcats will switch quarterbacks,
but will continue to go to the air.
Leipsic ........................E23
Vikings counting on a strong group of
returnees.
Lima Central Catholic ....E6
LCC has five strong running backs to
run behind a veteran line.
Lima Senior ...................E5
Running back Ryan Nathan will
shoulder the bulk of the offense.
Marion Local ...............E20
State champs return quarterback
Chris Stucke, but moves up to Div. V
Minster ........................E19
Leading rusher Aaron Heitbrink will
anchor a young Wildcats’ team.
New Bremen ................E20
New coach Rob Messick will unveil
an option attack.
Ottawa-Glandorf...........E13
Titans must find replacements at
quarterback and running back.
Pandora-Gilboa............E24
Seventeen returning starters hope to
push Rockets to winning mark.
Parkway.......................E21
MAC player of the year Jordan
Thompson powers Panthers.
Paulding........................E7
Chris Etzler inherits plenty of experi-
ence at Paulding.
Perry............................E25
Commodores hope to improve on last
season’s 6-4 mark.
Ridgemont...................E27
Gophers’ offense will feature the
wishbone.
Shawnee......................E11
Speedy tailback Brandon Stephenson
is back.
Spencerville ..................E8
Bearcats are counting on their vet-
eran lines.
St. Henry .....................E18
Defending state champs will have
plenty of new faces.
St. Marys .....................E16
Roughriders will continue to do what
they do best ... run the football.
Upper Scioto Valley......E26
The Rams are planning plenty of
changes.
Van Wert ......................E16
New coach looks to turn around
Cougars program.
Versailles.....................E22
Tigers’ option game will look to
Ethan Oliver.
Wapakoneta.................E12
Quarterback Drew Parker leads the
defending WBL champs.
Waynesfield.................E24
Tigers hope to continue run of suc-
cessful seasons.
CANNOT MISS
By JEREMY SCHNEIDER
jschneider@limanews.com
419-993-2088
Every year, there are those games that
make your eyes bug out of your head. They
are the games you mark on your calendar.
They are the games we have been talking
about since December.
To help with your planning, we’ve nar-
rowed down the hundreds of football games
going on across our area to a select 10.
Picked without bias and an eye toward su-
perior action and interesting behind-the-
scenes storylines, these are the games
that football fans should not miss. No mat-
ter what.
Really, you have no excuse not to get off
your rear and make it to a football stadium
near you.
So, without further ado, here are The Lima
News’ Top-10 Games of the Season:
1. Delphos St. John’s (6-4 ) at
Lima Central Catholic (11-2)
Aug. 25 (Saturday)
These are two teams that you can’t un-
derstand why they don’t play every year,
like Ohio State and Notre Dame. As the
only two Catholic high schools in the area,
this game will be a topic of conversation
before and after every Mass in Allen
County.
The Thunderbirds and Blue Jays have only
played twice in the last 23 years, with LCC
winning in 1984 and ’85. Actually, LCC is 7-
0 against St. John’s since 1958.
Plus, the game is on the first Saturday of
the season, meaning it will receive attention
from every corner of the area, (the Buckeyes
don’t play until the following week).
This could be the first step back in the right
direction for St. John’s after missing the
playoffs last year. A win would give LCC a
huge jump in a season of high hopes.
2. St. Henry (13-1) at
Coldwater (11-1)
Sept. 21
Forget the state title games and Mid-
west Athletic Conference championships.
This one is about rivalry in the truest sense
of the word. Hop in the car in St. Henry and
5 minutes, or five miles later, and you’re in
Coldwater.
No offense, but really, to heck with Mer-
cer County, also. Ask anyone around Ohio
and chances are they’ll identify this as the
can’t-miss small-school game of the year in
THE COVER: Cover photograph: Jamie Lynn Chevillet; Cover design: Jeff Braun; Special thanks to: Zac Dysert, Jake Hyland, Ryan Nathan, Blaine Schmitt, Brandon Stephenson and
Jordan Thompson; Once Upon a Fantasy for western costumes. THE SECTION: Sports Editor: Larry Graham; Reporters: Jim Naveau, Tom Usher, Jeremy Schneider, Mark Altstaetter,
Mike Miller, Jim Langham, Scott Brinkman and Lance Mihm; Photo editor: Craig J. Orosz; Photographers: Kelli Cardinal, Jamie Lynn Chevillet, Brittany Ransom, Dean Brown, Don Speck
and Matt Lipton; Videographer: Craig Mack; Designer: Jeff Braun; Special thanks to: Dawn Kessinger, Merri Hanjora and the coaches and athletic directors from Lima-area high schools
the state. This is a game for all of us to enjoy. It will be interesting to see how this one
Both of these squads lost talent from last plays out. The Eagles lost quite a bit from last
year, but the Cavaliers and Redskins usually year’s state semifinal team while Northern
reload. returns running back Nathan Bame (185
This won’t be the first test for either of carries, 1,536 yards, 27 touchdowns).
these squads. Coldwater faces Kenton and
Marion Local in the first two weeks while St.
Henry matches up with Marion Pleasant, 5. Shawnee (7-3) at
Delphos St. John’s and Marion Local to start
the season. Ottawa-Glandorf (7-4)
So, while it won’t be the first test for either Oct. 26
team, it will be the biggest. Don’t think revenge isn’t on the mind of the
Shawnee football program. An Ottawa-Glan-
dorf 28-24 win in week nine ended any
8. Coldwater at Delphos St. John’s
hope of a postseason appearance for the In-
dians. In turn, it gave the Titans that little Oct. 27 (Saturday)
nudge they needed to make it to week 11. Eight of the last 10 Midwest Athletic Con-
Fans can only hope for the drama that oc- ference champions have been from either
curred in the final minute of last year’s game, St. John’s or Coldwater. It’s a safe bet that
when O-G scored in the final 50 seconds and this game will have conference title impli-
watched as a last-second Shawnee pass fell cations riding on the outcome. There will be
3. Ada (7-4) at incomplete in the end zone. quite a bit of playoff ties in the result, as well.
Lima Central Catholic It gives us yet another chance to watch Really, it doesn’t matter who was playing
Oct. 27 (Saturday) Shawnee running back Brandon Stephen- in the game or where. A MAC game on the
son, too. As a junior, he rushed for 1,246 last day of the regular season always has
Played on the absolute last day of the
regular season, this game could decide the yards and 12 touchdowns. It should be fun “BIG” written all over it.
Northwest Conference title, much like it did to watch Stephenson battle the big boys
last year when LCC bludgeoned the Bulldogs, from Putnam County.
40-6. It could also give either one of these Just like with St. Marys-Wapakoneta, this
teams a huge send-off into the postseason. game will be a big factor in who wins the WBL.
Mouth-watering questions abound. Can
the vaunted passing attack of Ada quar-
terback Zac Dysert and Co. survive in the
questionable weather of late October?
What can LCC’s stud defensive lineman 9. Wapakoneta at Shawnee
Jacob Hyland do about it? Will the Bulldogs Oct. 5
be able to stop the punishing LCC rushing Debate has been raging as to whether
attack? this is becoming the WBL’s best rivalry game.
The stars are aligning for both schools to 6. Allen East (9-3) at Ada If these two programs keep getting better,
have tremendous seasons and long runs Oct. 12 there’s no reason why it shouldn’t be. While
into the playoffs. If not for the inherent ri- Speaking of revenge, the Mustangs must last year was Wapakoneta’s breakout sea-
valry of the LCC-Delphos St. John’s and St. have circled this date after Ada closed the son, Shawnee has been on the steady rise,
Henry-Coldwater games, this would be No. doors on Allen East’s old home with a 21-6 win. going 27-14 over the last four seasons. Over
1 on the list. This is a matchup of two of the NWC’s biggest the last six years, the series between these
offensive weapons, Ada quarterback Zac Dysert two is an even 3-3.
and Allen East running back Blaine Schmitt. The Redskins came this close to a perfect
Combined in 2006, these two accounted for season en route to their WBL title in 2006.
well over 5,000 yards and 50 touchdowns. The only game that kept them from perfec-
Good money is there will be more than 27 tion is a 28-20 loss to Shawnee in week six.
points scored in this year’s version of the rivalry. Another great game seems in the offing.
With Shawnee running back Brandon
Stephenson and Wapakoneta quarterback
4. St. Marys (9-3) at Drew Parker, there will be no shortage of of-
fensive firepower.
Wapakoneta (10-2)
Sept. 21
Auglaize County, get ready. This game
could be a doozy.
Wapakoneta lost its go-to receiver, mam-
moth tight end and head coach from last 7. Hardin Northern (10-2) at
year’s breakout season. However, the Red-
Liberty-Benton (12-2)
skins return their quarterback and a wealth
of experience at the running back spot. St. Oct. 19
Marys returns running back Koby Frye (256 It’s amazing the difference a division can 10. Elida (1-9) at Bath (3-7)
carries, 1,367 yards, 11 touchdowns) and, make. Hardin Northern is on the smaller Sept. 28
well, what else do the Roughriders really side for Division VI schools. They play a
Snicker if you must, but fans of the Bull-
need, right? schedule heavy with like-sized schools, ex- dogs and Wildcats can’t miss this game. It
Actually, reports are surfacing that the cept for Liberty-Benton, which is Division V. might be the only chance either of these
Roughriders might be looking to air the ball In last year’s 38-14 Liberty-Benton win, schools have at a win this season. Even if
the Eagles ran over, around and through the
out a little more this year. That could spell dis- that’s an overstatement, it will be one of only
aster for teams that want to put nine guys smaller Polar Bears. a handful. Last year they combined for four
in the box. The schools play in the Blanchard Valley wins.
In a wide-open Western Buckeye League, Conference and every year this seems to be If that doesn’t do it for you, consider the
as many as five teams have legit shots at a the de facto conference title game. North- rivalry factor. And if that doesn’t do it either,
title. This one could go a long way in decid- ern could gain quite a bit of computer points enjoy two of the best marching bands in the
ing who gets the hardware in October. from a win. area.
CREDITS
The Lima News 2007 PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW Thursday, Aug. 23, 2007 E3

THE LIMA NEWS

The Most Wanted 1

PRESEASON POLL
Big Class
(Divisions I, II, III, IV)
Coldwater. The Midwest Ath-
letic Conference champion.
Finished 11-1 and undefeated in
the MAC.
2. St. Marys. Runner-up in the
Western Buckeye League. The
Roughriders were 9-3.
3. Wapakoneta. WBL cham-
pion. Finished 8-1 in the league
and 10-2 overall.
4. Ottawa-Glandorf. Only had
four losses last season, but lost
running back Brian Recker.
5. Shawnee. The Indians finished
7-3 last season and have Brandon
Stephenson back at running back.

Small Class
(Divisions V, VI)
Marion Local. The Division VI
1 state champion. Finished third
in the MAC but only lost two
games all season.
2. St. Henry. The Division V
champion, the Redskins finished
runner-up in the MAC with only
one loss last year.
3. Lima Central Catholic. The
Northwest Conference champion,
LCC only had two losses all year.
One of those losses was in the
playoffs to eventual state cham-
pion, St. Henry.
4. Hardin Northern. The Polar
Bears only suffered two losses last
year. They lost one 1,000-yard
rusher, but retained one as well.
5. Ada. The Bulldogs were run-
ner-up in the NWC with a 6-2
conference record. Oh, and they
have some Dysert kid who’s sup-
posed to be good on the team.

FINAL 2006
STANDINGS
WESTERN BUCKEYE LEAGUE
WBL OVERALL
Wapakoneta 8 1 10 2
St. Marys 7 2 9 3
Shawnee 7 2 7 3
Defiance 6 3 6 4
Ottawa-Glandorf 6 3 7 4
Kenton 5 4 5 5
Bath 3 6 3 7
Celina 2 7 2 8
Van Wert 0 9 1 9
Elida 1 8 1 9
JAMIE LYNN CHEVILLET photos • The Lima News
MIDWEST ATHLETIC CONFERENCE
MAC OVERALL

Dangerous players who shoot to win Coldwater

St. Henry
Marion Local

Anna
9 0
8 1
7 2
Delphos St. John’s 5 4
5 4
11 1
13 1
11 2
6 4
6 4
By JEREMY SCHNEIDER doesn’t stop him “I know that’s a few ther than a shadow in the noon Versailles 4 5 5 5
jschneider@limanews.com from grinding out MOST WANTED more than usual.” sun. People recall your name to Minster
Parkway
3 6
2 7
4 6
2 8
419-993-2088 the tough yards. The Most Wanted their children and their children’s
“You don’t have This section features a are kind of like out- children. New Bremen 2 7 2 8
“Most Wanted” player Fort Recovery 0 9 1 9
Like a cowboy riding into town to to be that big to run laws, feared gun- “When you’ve an outstanding run-
save the day, the Most Wanted are that zone offense. from each area team. slingers, like Parkway ning back like that who’s quick and NORTHWEST CONFERENCE
The one you can’t tackle. NWC OVERALL
the players everyone looks to when You’re just trying to linebacker Jordan got great balance, you key on him,” Lima Central Cath. 7 1 11 2
the game is on the line. find that crease,” The one you can’t block. Thompson, who was Fell said of Schmitt. Ada 6 2 7 4
Zac Dysert is better known as the Spartans coach The one you can’t stop. named Midwest Ath- Allen East coach Randy Woods was Allen East 6 2 9 3
all-state quarterback at Ada. How- Darnell Collins letic Conference de- similarly complimentary of Dysert. Spencerville 5 3 7 4
ever, it was a rare appearance on de- said. “That’s why fensive player of the Woods believes the gunslinger could Columbus Grove 5 3 7 5
fense and two second-half intercep- Delphos Jefferson 4 5 5 5
Michigan likes him so much because year as a 6-4, 225-pound junior line- be a Division I college athlete in foot- Bluffton 3 5 5 5
tions in the red zone that sealed a 21- they compare him to Michael Hart, backer. Delphos St. John’s coach Todd ball, basketball and baseball. Fell Crestview 0 8 2 8
6 win over rival Allen East last sea- who’s not very big either.” Schulte confessed to almost solely fo- said Dysert is a standout ice hockey Paulding 1 7 1 9
son. Dysert rushed for a team-high Featured on wanted posters across cusing on Thompson while game-plan- player, also. OTHERS
91 yards and passed for another 173. the land, this group of desperadoes ning for the Panthers. “An athlete like that doesn’t come OVERALL
“He’s a winner,” Allen East coach often wear the black hats with a desire They are smaller cowpokes, too. around very often,” Woods said. Hardin Northern 10 2
Randy Woods said. “He’s a leader. to create havoc. Allen East tailback Brandon Stephenson is roughly 5-7, “Just as we feel about Blaine, every- Waynesfield 7 3
Every sport he’s in, they’re winning Blaine Schmitt single-handedly beat 180 pounds, but he more than makes one else feels about him, myself in- Pandora-Gilboa 5 5
and he’s their go-to guy.” cluded. He’s a great quarterback, Perry 6 4
Bluffton by rushing for 235 yards and up for it in other areas. Indian Lake 4 6
Ryan Nathan rushed for 97 yards scoring every point in a 21-7 victory. “Fast would be the first thing one of the best in the state.” Cory-Rawson 5 5
and two touchdowns in a 32-27 win “Stop Blaine Schmitt. That’s the that jumps out at you,” St. Marys The Most Wanted are the players Upper Scioto Valley 3 5
over Sandusky that broke Lima Se- No. 1 thing,” Ada coach Mike Fell coach Doug Frye said. “He’s a big you look out for as they ride off into Lima Senior 2 8
nior’s 18-game Greater Buckeye said of his game plan for Allen East. playmaker.” the sunset with another win. Ridgemont 2 8
Conference losing streak. He might “We try to put at least 14 guys on When you’re part of the Most You can comment on this story at Leipsic 2 8
only be 5-foot-8, 180 pounds, but that Blaine when we come through there. Wanted, your legend stretches far- www.limaohio.com.

2007 DIVISIONAL
Coming Friday Sports Editor Larry Graham BREAKDOWN
shares his wit and wisdom on
local, state and national topics. Division I Bluffton
Crestview
Lima Senior Del. Jefferson
Sports Reporter Jim Naveau begins Division II L.C.C
his 16th season of covering Ohio Celina Spencerville
State football. Read his opinions on Wapakoneta Parkway
the Buckeyes and other topics. St. Henry
Division III Versailles
Defiance Division VI
Sports Reporter Tom Usher has covered local Elida
sports for The Lima News since 1986. He shares Kenton Ada
his insights and welcomes your comments. St. Marys Columbus Grove
Shawnee Cory-Rawson
Van Wert Delphos St. John’s
Fort Recovery
Sports Reporter Jeremy Schneider covers local Division IV Hardin Northern

Video online Limasports.com sports for The Lima News. Get his perspective
and share your opinion at limasports.com.
Bath
Coldwater
Leipsic
Marion Local
Minster
The re-designed Web site for The Lima News sports Indian Lake
The Lima News and WTLW Channel 44
once again team up to bring you a library
of video highlights of your favorite
department treats fans to stories, photographs and
videos about their favorite high school teams.
Blog with us Ottawa-Glandorf
Paulding
New Bremen
Pandora-Gilboa
Perry
high school team on limasports.com. It doesn’t stop there. Also featured are local colleges, Do you have something to say to The Lima News Division V Ridgemont
Also, see video of the “Most Wanted” other local sports, Ohio State and the Associated sports writers? Go to their blogs on limasports.com Allen East Waynesfield
cover shoot online at limaohio.com. Press state and national sports wire. to read their opinions and share your thoughts. Anna Upper Scioto Valley
E4 Thursday, Aug. 23, 2007 2007 PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW The Lima News

Face it, it’s not always the coach’s fault

Maybe I missed something. Sometimes suggesting your trademark is turnover in coaches.” title in 1992, they have three seasons
When was the last time former Jeremy coach find another job isn’t the an- Expectations for the Roughriders of 5-5 or worse. So, losing doesn’t
Lima Senior coach Rick Vaughn swer, either. are on a level that others can only happen often.
strapped on a helmet and filled the Schneider It seems like they grow football play- dream about. Since their last state Having the right coach in the right
gap, stopping a running back for a The Lima News ers in some mysterious factory in St. situation is usually the recipe for suc-
loss? How many games did former jschneider@limanews.com Marys. The Roughriders won three cess. Giving that coach support will
Elida coach Chris Etzler start for 419-993-2088 Division II state titles in the early make him want to stick around and
the Bulldogs? 1990s and finished as the Division III keep the success rolling.
Granted, I didn’t see Lima Senior coach. You blame a coach for call- state runner-up three years ago. I’m not blind. I realize there are bad
or Elida play last year, so it could ing the wrong play. What if the They have had plenty of success — coaches out there. Some who have no
have slipped past me. I’m pretty coach had the right play, but the and only three coaches in 49 years. business being on a sideline. I’m all for
sure the answer to guard missed his block and ruined “Continuity in coaches has a lot to a school board trying to improve its lot
both of those the play? do with success,” St. Marys coach and get the right man for the job.
questions is “It’s all up to execution,” new Doug Frye said. “I’ve been able as a However, there are even more
pretty obvious, Lima Senior coach Darnell Collins head coach to keep the bulk of this coaches out there who are getting a
though. said. “We can put a game plan to- staff together for eight years. Our raw deal because they have nothing to
Yet both were gether that will do what we think kids know what to expect. Our work with and unreasonable expecta-
gently shown we need to do to win the game. coaches know what to expect. You tions to fulfill.
their welcome But it basically comes down to look to losing programs and the first You can comment on this story
had run out. who tackles the best and who at www.limaohio.com.
You can’t lay blocks the best. If our players
the blame for don’t tackle or block better than
every failure the other team, we get beat.”
at the feet Exactly.
of the We can’t expect coaches to
be miracle workers. They
are only as good as the
players they have to
work with. They
can’t bring to-
gether groups of
disinterested
teenagers into
a 10-win team.
Just not going
to happen. Some-
times what ails a Former
program lies be-
Lima Senior
yond the locker
room and the prac- coach Rick Vaughn
tice field. • The Lima News
Former Elida coach Chris Etzler file photos

2007 Lima Senior

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The Lima News 2007 PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW Thursday, Aug. 23, 2007 E5

Nathan, linebackers hope to right Senior ship

Collins takes over Spartans
after 9 seasons as assistant
By ZACH STIPE
zstipe@limanews.com
419-993-2097
LIMA — Once-powerful
Lima Senior hasn’t had a win-
ning season since 1999.
Following a 2-8 2006 cam-
paign, a new coach and eight
returning lettermen plan to
steer the program in the right
direction.
Darnell Collins, a 1989 Lima
Senior graduate, has spent the
last nine seasons as an assis-
tant coach at the school.
Collins takes over as head
coach for Rick Vaughn and
now must try to accomplish
what the last four Spartans
coaches failed to do. Win.
“Depth could be an issue for
us,” Collins said. “Right now I
only have about 50 to 55 kids.”
The Spartans lost quarter-
back Matt Beggin to gradua-
tion and top linebacker Jah-
miir Williams, a Division I col-
lege prospect, transferred to
Trotwood-Madison.
Of his eight returning let-
termen, Collins returns the
Greater Buckeye Conference’s
top running back, Ryan
Nathan. The senior rushed for
1,055 yards and scored eight
touchdowns last season.
A veteran offensive line, led
by returning lettermen Darius
Thomas and junior Ricky Mar-
tin, should create the holes to
spring the super-quick Nathan
into the open field.
“(Nathan) is the main cog of
MOST WANTED
Ryan
Nathan:
Ran for
1,055 yards
and scored
8 TDs last
season
what we need to do offen-
sively,” Collins said, “and we
have some big offensive line-
men in front of him.”
Nathan will take handoffs
from either junior Josh Eley
or sophomore Jermonte
Healey, who remain in a battle
to earn the quarterback job.
Despite the loss of Williams,
the linebacker unit, anchored
by seniors Kyle Caven and
Jacob Moore, leads the Spar-
tans’ 4-3 defense.
“We are looking forward to
getting the program re-ener-
gized and getting people in
Lima excited about it,” Caven
said.
Collins expects Lima Senior
to be in the thick of the GBC
race. Depth and dwindling
numbers issues are concerns,
but the rookie coach thinks he
• The Lima News file photo
can set a foundation for the
future. Lima Senior’s Ryan Nathan (8) breaks away from the grips of Middletown defenders Tylor Amos (4) and Larry Carter (28)
“We’re doing everything we during a game last season.
can to win,” Collins said.
“These kids are coming out .500. If we can get to that, we
here with the mind-set that are heading in the right direc-
they want to win. Hopefully tion I feel.”
we turn this thing around. We You can comment on this story
are, at the least, trying to get to at www.limaohio.com.

LIMA SENIOR
Coach: Darnell Collins
Years, record at school: First, 0-0
2006 record: 2-8 BRITTANY RANSOM photos • The Lima News
Returning letterwinners: 8
Promising newcomers: Jacob Moore, senior, LB; Jermonte Healey, David Johnson carries the ball past his
sophomore, QB/WR; Adrian Nichols, junior, DB; Josh Eley, junior, teammates during practice at Sim-
QB/DB; Shawn Russell, junior, LB/DB mons Field.
Worth noting: Ricky Vaughn resigned after going 7-23 in three sea-
sons as head coach. The first pick as his replacement was Tim Collins
Carver, but he lasted only a few days at the helm after the Lima City
School Board discovered he was being investigated for misconduct at a previous Dongale
school district. Darnell Collins got the job on May 23, ending a tumultuous offseason.
Long
Aug. 24 CELINA Sept. 21 at Warren G Harding Oct. 12 at Napeoleon reaches
Aug. 31 DUBLIN COFFMAN Sept. 28 FREMONT ROSS Oct. 19 at Findlay for a
Sept. 7 at Middletown Oct. 5 at Sandusky Oct. 26 MARION HARDING
pass
Sept. 14 MEADOWDALE
during
practice.

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E6 Thursday, Aug. 23, 2007 NORTHWEST CONFERENCE The Lima News

NWC forecast
The following is a capsule look at
the Northwest Conference football
teams heading into the 2007 sea-
son. The teams are listed in pre-
T-Birds try to exceed expectations
dicted order of finish: By TOM USHER
tusher@limanews.com LIMA CENTRAL CATHOLIC
419-993-2089 Coach: Jerry Cooper
1. LIMA CENTRAL CATHOLIC —
The Thunderbirds are coming off Years, record at
back-to-back 11-2 seasons but LIMA — Two years under Jerry school:
might be even stronger this year. The Cooper have produced back-to-back 11- 3rd, 22-4
entire offensive line and much of the 2 seasons and two trips to the regional
defense are back. Five running backs 2006 record: 9-2
championship game. Returning
will be competing for playing time. That has Lima Central Catholic fans
About the only question is if they can letterwinners: 16
get quarterback play similar to what and players anxious for more. Promising
Geoff Bowers produced last season. “There are pretty big expectations.” newcomers:
LCC defensive tackle Jake Hyland said. TE Taylor Royster;
2. ADA — There are no quarterback “We hope to get better and improve on CB-WR Desmond Cooper
questions for the Bulldogs. Senior Zac that 11-2 season. We want to try to get
Dysert threw for 3,824 yards and 31 Kirkman.
over the hump and get past that regional Worth noting: Expectations are high
touchdowns last season. Maybe the finals game.”
biggest question for the Bulldogs is if at LCC with 14 starters returning.
they can prove they are not one-dimen- LCC has plenty of experience to make
The only concerns revolve around
sional. A close second is the question of another playoff run. The Thunderbirds
quarterback and the secondary.
how the loss of Heath Jackson and his return seven starters on both offense
123 catches will affect the offense. and defense. Aug. 25 DELPHOS ST. JOHNS
“I think we can compete with the • The Lima News file photo Aug. 31 at Crestview
3. ALLEN EAST — Blaine Schmitt Sept. 7 PAULDING
teams in our league,” LCC coach Jerry Lima Central Catholic’s Chris O’Brien (28) dodges Spencerville defenders and Sept. 15 COLUMBUS GROVE
carried the offensive load for the Mus- Cooper said. “The question is can we be
tangs last season (2,332 yards rush- sprints for the end zone during last season’s game. Sept. 21 at Delphos Jefferson
ing) and could have to play as big a a good enough football team that we Sept. 29 SPENCERVILLE
role this season. He is one of only can take the next step and get to one of from Bath, where he The defense gradu- Oct. 5 BISHOP READY
three returning offensive starters. the elite programs in Division V?” ran for 1,193 yards and MOST WANTED ated cornerback Drew Oct. 12 at Bluffton
The offensive line returns five starters Oct. 19 at Allen East
10 touchdowns. If Jake Hyland: Kirkman (10 intercep-
4. COLUMBUS GROVE — Heath Oct. 27 ADA
in center Casey Tierney (6-foot-5, 245 that’s not enough, Had 36 tions), who was the Di-
Nickles has long been known as one pounds), guards Frank DePalma (5-8, there’s speedy sopho- tackles, vision V defensive
of the best small-school hurdlers in 225) and Hyland (6-4, 220) and tackles more Daniel Lom- eight for a player of the year. He
the state. This season he finally to middle linebacker. Sophomore line-
jumped over the hurdle of injuries and Matt Boatman (6-3, 310) and Drew bardo. loss, and six moved on to Mount
is expected to be the featured run- Snider (6-3, 315). Tight end Gavin Saine “Chris (O’Brien) is sacks last Union. backer Jacob Rigali (6-1, 180) led the
ning back for the Bulldogs. He will is also back. the only one of those season. The unit returns Hy- team in tackles with 70.
have four returning starters on the of- The running game will have plenty of not playing defense, so land (36 tackles, eight Cornerback J.T. Wiechart and free
fensive line to run behind. options. First, there’s 5-9, 210-pound he’s probably going to for a loss, six sacks), safety Huffman will anchor the sec-
Chris O’Brien, who ran for 1,187 yards be a mainstay in the backfield, but you’ll who was on The Lima News Dream ondary.
5. DELPHOS JEFFERSON — The and 20 touchdowns last year. see all those backs,” Cooper said. “We’re Team. Also returning up front are tackle “We’re going to attack you on defense
Wildcats have 11 returning starters, and we’re going to try to run the ball,”
seven of them on defense, from a There’s also Michael Corwin, who going to rotate them through the three Mike Daley (64 tackles, 11 for a loss) and
team that finished 5-5 and came missed five games with a broken arm. or four spots, including wide receiver.” defensive end Michael Tremoulis (36 Cooper said.
within a few points of being much bet- Then, there’s Matt Huffman, who ran Lance Helmig, a 5-10, 190-pound tackles, five sacks). You can comment on this story at
ter. Three of their losses were by a for 581 yards. Todd Ruggley comes over sophomore, takes over at quarterback. Corwin moves from outside linebacker www.limaohio.com.
touchdown or less. The running game
could be a key factor. Derek Shivley is
back after gaining 821 yards last year
and the expected starter at quarter-
back, Sean Fisher, also runs well.
6. BLUFFTON — The Pirates gradu-
ated only six seniors, but the decision of
Crestview hopes young players grew up fast CRESTVIEW
Coach: Jason Cross
Years, record
leading receiver John Guagenti to con- at school:
centrate on track this year removed an- By JIM NAVEAU man, Wes Johnson and front of them averages 3rd, 11-10
other talented veteran player. Bluffton’s jnaveau@limanews.com
419-993-2087
Matt Myers, missed MOST WANTED nearly 240 pounds a man, 2006 record:
contrasting quarterback combination of several games because Briggs Orsbon: led by 6-foot, 265-pound 2-8
6-3, 235-pound Kory Place and 5-7, of injuries, which put tackle Michael Goings. Returning let-
145 Tyler Neal could give defenses CONVOY — Crestview’s football team The two-way
younger players into starter is Colton Short (6-4, 300) terwinners: 15
something to think about. has lots of experience, but it is experi- the lineup. will start at the other Promising
ence that was gained the hard way. being pursued
7. CRESTVIEW — Briggs Orsbon “We had a lot of guys by several
tackle. Kyle Balliet (6-4, newcomers:
Eight starting slots on offense and eight filling in last year. You 240) will play center and Hunter Frey, Cross
gives the Knights a threat at running NCAA Division
back and in the defensive backfield. on defense are expected to be filled by hope they got enough Tony Burger and Mo Kyle Balliet
players who started games last season I schools.
Young players got some experience experience to compete Sarka are the guards. Worth noting: Crestview’s
last season when several front-line when the Knights finished 2-8. this year,” Crestview “We probably have one starting offensive line aver-
players went down with injuries during But much of that experience was ac- coach Jason Cross said. of the better backfields in ages 236 pounds a man.
a disappointing 2-8 season that began quired when six two-way starters went Offensively, the Knights have experi- the conference,” Cross said. “Defensively,
with talk of a return to the playoffs. down with significant injuries in 2006. ence in the backfield and size on the line. our line is big and strong. Our lineback- Aug. 24 at Parkway
Aug. 31 LIMA CENTRAL CATHOLIC
Most notably, quarterback Ben Shin- But they came into preseason practice ing corps will be solid. I don’t think there Sept. 7 at Wayne Trace
8. SPENCERVILLE — The Bearcats
will try to follow up the school’s first deldecker was lost for the season with with a question about who will start at is a better athlete around than Briggs Sept. 14 at Bluffton
appearance in the playoffs without a broken ankle the fourth week of the quarterback. and the people around him in the defen- Sept. 21 ALLEN EAST
some of the most important players season. Ian Clay, an option-type quarterback, sive backfield are solid.” Sept. 28 at Delphos Jefferson
on last year’s offense. Crestview, which was running the and Stephen Semer, who is more of a Gibson is a returning starter at line- Oct. 5 ADA
spread offense and relying heavily on Oct. 12 at Spencerville
throwing quarterback, are competing for backer. Hunter Frey could also be a con- Oct. 19 COLUMBUS GROVE
9. PAULDING — Former Elida coach Shindeldecker’s passing, was 2-1 when he the starting job. tributor at linebacker.
Chris Etzler takes over. Most of the Oct. 26 PAULDING
was healthy and 0-7 after his injury. Briggs Orsbon is the running back and You can comment on this story at
starters return from last year’s team.
But that team finished 1-9. Other key players like Kyle Nedder- Jordan Gibson is the fullback. The line in www.limaohio.com.

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The Lima News
Power running back for Wildcats Pirates look to
By LARRY GRAHAM
lgraham@limanews.com
419-993-2085
DELPHOS — You probably
won’t see a lot of flash out of
Delphos Jefferson. This team
isn’t built around the abilities of
one guy.
“We have good football play-
ers, but we don’t have a standout
football player,” Wildcats coach
Damon Ulm said. “We don’t have
a big playmaker.
“We spread the wealth.”
And that sense of cohesive-
ness and team unity is one rea-
son Ulm is optimistic about the
season.
Delphos Jefferson features four
guys back on offense and seven
on defense. The wing-T offense
almost produced two 1,000-yard
rushers before running back
Derek Shivley went down with a
foot injury to end his season at
821 yards on the ground.
“He’s the heart of our running
game,” Ulm said. “He got hurt in
the ninth week, but he’s been
looking pretty good.”
Junior halfbacks Aaron Sher-
man and Tim Sanders will also
share the backfield with Shiv-
ley. That leaves the quarter-
back situation questionable,
but not critical.
“We are a running team, we’re
going to be a running team
first,” Ulm said. “But when
teams load up on us, we need to
be able to throw the ball.”
For that, the Wildcats will
likely rely on junior quarter-
back Sean Fisher.
Fisher and Josh Miller bat-
tled in practice for the top
quarterback spot. Both quar-
terbacks are capable with
good throwing mechanics.
But Fisher has a slight advan-
tage.
New coach and old players create intriguing mix
By JIM LANGHAM
sports@limanews.com
419-993-2085
PAULDING — First-year
coach Chris Etzler is inheriting
a seasoned and experienced
squad. This year’s team in-
cludes 16 returning lettermen,
including 19 starters, with sev-
eral who played both ways.
The drawback is that the ex-
perience came during a 1-9
season last year.
Etzler has been impressed
with his squad’s preseason
workouts in conditioning and
the weight room, a work ethic
drilled into the players by
former coach Rob Messick.
“That effort is only going to
make us better,” Etzler said.
Junior Haden Sholl (6-foot,
150 pounds) is inheriting the
quarterback position from Ben
Rothenbuehler. Junior Corbin
Rhonehouse (6-2, 180) looks to
carry the ball, as will fullback
Chris Rohrs (5-7, 140).
“We’re going to have a multi-
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NORTHWEST CONFERENCE
Delphos Jefferson’s Derek Shivley runs up the middle through Allen East defenders during last
season’s game at Stadium Park in Delphos.
MOST WANTED
Derek
Shivley:
Rushed for
821 yards
and 10 TDs
last season
“His edge is his running abil-
ity,” Ulm said. “All the quarter-
backs throw the ball pretty
evenly and throw it well, but he
has the capability to scramble.”
However, Fisher may not
have to scramble often. He has
two experienced linemen back.
Right guard Stuart Miller has protection up front.
been a starter since he was a
freshman. At 5-foot-11, 198
pounds, he provides excellent tackle.
MOST WANTED
Haden Sholl:
A 6-foot, 150-pound
quarterback, Sholl
could be the answer to
a successful season.
dimensional offense this sea-
son,” Etzler said. “We expect
to also have a lot of help from
Andrew Mott (5-11, 165),
Cameron Owens (5-7, 145) and
Troy Vance (6-1, 155).”
This will not be a typical
Paulding team. With a new
coach comes new schemes.
“The kids are working hard
to catch on to new offensive
and defensive systems,” Et-
zler said. “Not too much rat-
tles them. They went through
some pretty challenging times
but they were coming on in
the last part of the season last
year.”
It remains uncertain where the
heart of this team lies. But Pauld- You can comment on this story
ing certainly doesn’t expect to be at www.limaohio.com.
2007 Pandora-Gilboa
ROCKETS
Northwest Physical Therapy
Corner of
Cable & Shawnee Roads
419-222-9999
DELPHOS JEFFERSON
Coach: Damon Ulm
Years, record at school: 4th, 16-24
2006 record: 5-5
Returning letterwinners: 16
Promising newcomers: Sean Fisher
Worth noting: The Wildcats lost
their leading rusher from a year ago,
Andrew Fitch. They also lost three of
their last four games.
Aug. 24 at Col. Harvest Prep. Sept. 28 CRESTVIEW
Aug. 31 at Paulding
Sept. 8 BLUFFTON
Sept. 14 at Allen East
Sept. 21 LIMA CENTRAL CATH. Oct. 26 at Spencerville
He’s joined by Quentin Lauf, of the league,” Ulm said.
a 6-foot, 225-pound senior
pushed around up front,
that’s for sure.
“The offensive and defen-
sive lines are going to be our
strength this year,” Etzler
said. “We have a number of
successful track kids on the
squad, so it’s not only going to
be strength. It’s going to be
speed and strength.”
Etzler noted that the team’s
biggest challenge could be the
Northwest Conference.
“Five teams from the NWC
were in the playoffs last year,”
Etzler said. “Wayne Trace will
be a real challenge as a non-
league game. The kids are
eager to win, but we need to
win early in order to gain the
confidence to keep moving
forward the way that we are
capable of.”
As always, Etzler looks for
such teams as Crestview and
Bluffton to join several other
squads as league contenders.
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Thursday, Aug. 23, 2007 E7
bounce back
By JOHN S. HULLINGER
sports@limanews.com
419-993-2085 BLUFFTON
Coach: Dennis Lee
Years,
BLUFFTON — It is not al- record at
together surprising that five
school:
teams from the Northwest 21st,
Conference made the play- 145-66
offs in 2006. 2006
record: 5-5
What was a surprise was
Returning
that Bluffton wasn’t one of
them. letterwin-
ners: 12
The Pirates’ 5-5 mark was Promising Lee
their worst since a 4-6 record newcom-
in 1994. It was just the ers: T Eric Childs, T Drew
fourth non-winning record Ruby, DT Kayl Aller,
in head coach Dennis Lee’s G Logan Fruchey.
20 storied seasons at the Worth noting: Bluffton is
helm. looking to bounce back
KELLI CARDINAL • The Lima News from a disappointing
Now, Bluffton looks to
2006 season.
bounce back in an NWC that
is as stacked with talent as
Aug. 24 CORY-RAWSON
ever. Aug. 31 CATHOLIC CENTRAL
“We’ve talked about that Sept. 8 at Delphos Jefferson
Sept. 14 CRESTVIEW
in the offseason with the
Sept. 21 at Ada
kids. Five and five isn’t a typ- Sept. 28 ALLEN EAST
ical Bluffton year for us,” Lee Oct. 5 at Spencerville
Oct. 12 LIMA CENTRAL CATH.
said. “It was a situation
where I think everybody un- Oct. 19 at Paulding
Oct. 2 at Columbus Grove
derstood the fact that our
conference was so balanced
last year with some very
Ulm
good football teams.”
The spread is still the of-
Oct. 5 at Columbus Grove fense of choice for Lee, who
MOST WANTED
Oct. 13 at Troy Christian Jesse Herr:
plans to run the ball a good
Oct. 19 ADA Racked
percentage of the time out of
the spread. up 1,063
all-purpose
“We’re still going to throw
the football and hopefully do yards last
season.
“I think we can be at the top some things with the run
game at the same time,” Lee
You can comment on this story said.
at www.limaohio.com. Senior Kory Place (6-foot-
3, 235 pounds) and junior Bluffton lost leading
Tyler Neal (5-7, 145) will rusher and tackler Josh Falk
split time at quarterback. to graduation and leading re-
Place was 44-for-86 passing
for 400 yards with two touch-
downs and eight intercep-
ceiver John Guagenti, who
elected not to play football in
order to concentrate on
tions in 2006. He gives track.
PAULDING Bluffton a more traditional Thus, senior Jesse Herr is
Coach: Chris Etzler pocket passer. Neal, who was expected to pick up much of
Years, record 62-for-114 passing with 676 the slack. His 1,063 all-pur-
at school: yards and eight touchdowns, pose yards last year were
First, 0-0 brings more speed and mo- second only to Falk’s 1,111.
2006 record: “We graduated six and
1-9 bility to the position.
“It’s evolving. We’re going we’ve got a lot of kids coming
Returning back, a few sophomores
letterwin- to see how this thing goes,”
ners: 12 Lee said. “Obviously Kory mixed in there that played
Promising got hurt last year and we just last year and a good senior
newcomers: kind of settled in with just class — Kory Place, Lane
Dakota Etzler one. They both bring added Oberly, Ethan Luginbuhl,
LaFountain, features to the table as far Kyle Lambert, Drew Gable,
Beau Hahn, Wes Zeller Jesse Herr, Ben Eiserle — all
Worth noting: Troy Vance, as the quarterback position.
seniors for us this year who
Andrew Mott, Cameron It’s an ongoing thing.”
saw a lot of playing time for
Owens, Dalton Stallkamp, However, Place serves dou-
Jerod Knodel, Corbin Vance, ble duty as a defensive end us as juniors,” Lee said.
“We’ve got hopefully a core
Seth Thomas for the Pirates. His ability to
Aug. 21 WAYNE TRACE play both ways may lead to crew coming back that’s got
some experience as well as
Aug. 31 DELPHOS JEFFERSON more playing time for Neal at
Sept. 7 at Lima Central Catholic quarterback. some kids that came out this
Spet. 14 at Spencerville year that did not play last
Sept. 22 at Delta
“Kory’s got to play defense.
He’s a big strong kid,” Lee year that hopefully will give
Sept. 28 ADA
Oct. 5 ALLEN EAST said. “We need him obviously us a little bit more size and
Oct. 12 COLUMBUS GROVE at the defensive end spot. be a little more physical up
Oct. 19 BLUFFTON That’s a tough position to front.”
Oct. 26 CRESTVIEW You can comment on this
come back and play quarter-
back all the time.” story at www.limaohio.com.
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E8 Thursday, Aug. 23, 2007 NORTHWEST CONFERENCE The Lima News

“We’re a lot stronger and our athletes

are a lot quicker. And they recognize that.
They see that the work they have done
has really been beneficial.”
— Bruce McConnell
Spencerville coach

Spencerville hopes
to build on success
By JOHN S. HULLINGER
sports@limanews.com
419-993-2085 SPENCERVILLE
Coach: Bruce McConnell
Years,
SPENCERVILLE — record at
Spencerville is coming off of a school:
7-4 campaign and the first 2nd, 7-4
football playoff appearance in 2006
school history. It was the record: 7-4
Bearcats’ first winning season Returning
since finishing 7-3 in 2000. letterwin-
However, Spencerville has ners: 12
not put together consecutive Worth
winning seasons since rattling noting: McConnell
off three straight in 1992, ’93 The
Bearcats are coming off
and ’94. And it has several their first playoff season,
holes to fill at the skill posi- but have some big holes
KELLI CARDINAL • The Lima News tions with the loss of record- to fill at the skill posi-
Ada junior Zac Dysert takes a moment before getting up during last season’s game against Lima Central Catholic. setters Logan Nourse (career tions.
completion percentage) and
running back Isaac Bowers Aug. 24 at Indian Lake

High hopes in Hardin County (single season rushing).

Dysert leads high-flying Ada attack
By JEREMY SCHNEIDER
jschneider@limanews.com
419-993-2088
ADA — Ada boasts a high-octane of-
fense that averaged 36 points per game
in 2006. Under center is Zac Dysert, the
Division VI offensive player of the year
and The Lima News Dream Team of-
fensive player of the year. Dysert ver-
bally committed to play at Miami Uni-
versity.
Fans of offense, rejoice. It should only
get better this year.
“I think we’ll be a lot better because
everyone has a year of experience under
their belt,” the 6-foot-3, 190-pound
Dysert said. He passed for 3,824 yards
and 31 touchdowns in 11 games last
year.
Everyone has high expectations for
the Bulldogs. Anything less than a
Northwest Conference crown and a deep
run into the playoffs could be viewed as
a letdown.
“We’ve raised our expectations,” coach
Mike Fell said. “I’m sure the people that
read the sports columns, they see you
have the best player in the state and
they expect you to be in the state play-
offs. The reality is, we are so far re-
moved from that.”
Ada (7-4, 6-2 NWC in 2006) comes into
the season with some question marks.
Gone from the offense is running back
Jef Wolber, who caught 34 passes for
234 yards. Stepping into that role is 5-
9, 180-pound Josh Rouch, who started
last year at defensive tackle.
“Josh Rouch is doing a nice job there
“Last year’s seniors did an
excellent job in getting in the
weight room,” Spencerville
coach Bruce McConnell said.
Aug. 31
Sept. 7
Sept. 14
Sept. 21
Sept. 29
at Ada
ALLEN EAST
PAULDING
at Columbus Grove
at Lima Central Cath.
Oct. 5 BLUFFTON
Coach: Mike Fell
ADA
“We’re a lot stronger and our
athletes are a lot quicker. And
Oct. 12
Oct. 19
CRESTVIEW
at Bishop Hartley
they recognize that. They see Oct. 26 DELPHOS JEFFERSON
Years, record at that the work they have done
MOST WANTED school: 2nd, 7-4 has really been beneficial.”
2006 record: Where the Bearcats are
Zac Dysert: 7-4, 6-2 NWC
The Lima News Returning strong is on the offensive and
defensive lines.
Dream Team letterwinners: 16
offensive player Promising newcom- “We’ve got some people on
of the year ers: Jay Salyer, Jay the offensive and defensive MOST WANTED
passed for well Wolber, Colby line that I think are going to Tyler
over 3,000 yards Dysert, Brandon Fell be pretty impressive,” Mc- Obringer:
last season. Dysert, Trent Bass, Connell said. “Tyler Obringer 6-3 sopho-
Travis Dysert is 6-3 and 250 and we’re hav- more will
Worth noting: Not since Ben Mauk and ing a hard time handling him anchor a
the Kenton air show has there been so in practice.”
at running back,” Fell said. “He’s a real much attention paid to a quarterback big offen-
good defensive player and he runs hard, in the area. Dysert signed with Miami Tyler Keysor (6-foot-2, 250 sive line.
so he’ll do a nice job at running back.” University, so he can concentrate on pounds) started last year at
More pressing is the absence of re- the team goals of an NWC title and tight end and defensive end.
ceiver Heath Jackson, who moved to state playoff appearance. Jake Nye is also playing at
tackle both ways. Ben Hatfield and Collin
South Carolina. As a freshman, Jackson Aug. 24 at Hardin Northern Walker sharing the bulk of the
broke the state record for receptions in “(Nye) is only 5-9 but he’s
Aug. 31 SPENCERVILLE
240 and he’s our strongest kid carries. McConnell said that
a season with 123 for 1,473 yards and Sept. 7 COLUMBUS GROVE
probably next to Obringer,” getting the skill positions up
seven touchdowns. Sept. 14 FORT LORAMIE
McConnell said. “He has been to speed will be a priority.
The Bulldogs have a trio of experi- Sept. 21 BLUFFTON
“Obviously they’re un-
enced receivers back. One of them, Nate Sept. 28 at Paulding the strongest kid probably the
Oct. 5 at Crestview last year and a half but the proven at those positions,”
Vermillion, has moved to Jackson’s old Oct. 12 ALLEN EAST McConnell said. “(Wolfe) is an
spot. Vermillion (6-2, 175) caught 31 Obringer boy is going by him.
Oct. 19 at Delphos Jefferson
That’s a pretty good nucleus excellent athlete. He’s a
passes for 574 yards and eight TDs in Oct. 27 at Lima Central Catholic starter on the basketball
the ’06 regular season. on one side.”
R eturning at center is team. Collin Walker and Ben
“Hopefully he’ll get just as many Hatfield will be taking over
catches as Heath,” Dysert said. “The Justin Reaver. Gideon Stock-
lin, who McConnell called the the running duties at the tail-
more touches he gets, the better I think back position. We’ll see how
fastest kid on the team, is
we’ll be.”
Kyle Baker (6-2, 180) is the leading re-
“I think we’ll be a lot playing guard and linebacker. we get through the scrim-
mages and everything, who
turning receiver with 65 catches for better because everyone “And our other tackle is the
conference heavyweight cham- steps forward.”
1,069 yards and 10 scores. Ron Grzy- The defense returns several
bowski (6-0, 180) saw extended action has a year of experience pion in wrestling, Shane Bink-
ley,” McConnell said. “We’ve key players, including line-
split wide last year as well. Dysert also backers Matt Kill, Stocklin
mentioned 6-3, 180-pound sophomore under their belt.” got good people. It’s going to be
and Keysor.
Mitchell Faine. a strong point for us.”
— Zac Dysert Adam Wolfe replaces You can comment on this story
You can comment on this story at
Ada quarterback Nourse at quarterback with at www.limaohio.com.
www.limaohio.com.

2007 Spencerville
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The Lima News NORTHWEST CONFERENCE Thursday, Aug. 23, 2007 E9

Allen East looks to Schmitt Nickles healthy and

Senior RB will ready to lead Bulldogs
lead young By JOHN S. HULLINGER
sports@limanews.com COLUMBUS GROVE
Mustangs 419-993-2085

COLUMBUS GROVE — The tail-

Coach:
Scott Palte
Years, record
back gods have been kind to Columbus at school:
By JEREMY SCHNEIDER
jschneider@limanews.com
Grove over the past decade. 3rd, 15-7
419-993-2088 From Opey Roeder to Blaine Maag to 2006 record: 7-5
Jeremy Harnishfeger, the Bulldogs Returning
LAFAYETTE —Last season was a have racked up a lot of rushing yards — letterwinners: 14
historic year for Allen East. The Mus- and touchdowns — against opposing Promising
tangs finished 8-2 overall and 6-2 in defenses. newcomers:
Enter Heath Nickles. Palte
the Northwest Conference. They SE/DB Josh Gray,
capped off the season with their first Already a household name to area OG/DT Kaleb Amstutz, RB/DB
playoff victory. track and field fans, Nickles is healthy R.J. Roof, TE/DT Dylan Vogt.
The bad news? Most of that team is for the first time in his high school foot- Worth noting: If tailback Heath
gone. ball career and is primed to lead the Nickles can remain healthy,
The great news? Blaine Schmitt is Grove running attack behind an expe- he’ll have an experienced line
back. KELLI CARDINAL • The Lima News rienced offensive line. making holes for him.
The 5-foot-8, 160-pound running “Most people know him for his track
Allen East’s Blaine Schmitt is held back by a Delphos Jefferson defender accomplishments in pole vault and hur- Aug. 24 at Pandora-Gilboa
back rushed for 2,332 yards on 351 during a game last season at Stadium Park in Delphos. Aug. 31 at Allen East
dles,” Bulldogs coach Scott Palte said.
carries with 20 touchdowns. He ac- Sept. 7 at Ada
“We expect a big season out of him. Sept. 15 at Lima Central Catholic
counted for 66 percent of Allen East’s
“This year we have a healthy Heath.” Sept. 21 SPENCERVILLE
offense and 59 percent of the scoring. MOST WANTED ALLEN EAST The Bulldogs return four starters on Sept. 28 TROY CHRISTIAN
“We’ve had a lot of good running backs Coach: Randy Woods Oct. 5 DELPHOS JEFFERSON
come through here, but never had some- Blaine Schmitt: the offensive line, senior guard Eric
The senior led Years, record at Harshman (6-2, 196), junior tackle T.J. Oct. 12 PAULDING
one rush for 2,000 yards,” Mustangs school: 9th, 37-45 Bogart (5-8, 221), junior center Brett Oct. 19 at Crestview
coach Randy Woods said. “He’s just a the area in 2006 record: Oct. 26 BLUFFTON
rushing last year 9-3, 6-2 NWC Reed (6-0, 192) and junior tackle Je-
special talent. I’d like to tell you he’s remy Vorst (6-0, 242).
good because I coach him, but that’s not with 2,332 Returning
yards on 351 letterwinners: 12 The Bulldogs are coming off of a
true. He’s got God-given ability.” roller-coaster season that saw them
carries with 20 Promising
The other two returning offensive
touchdowns. newcomers: start out 1-4 before recovering to finish MOST WANTED
starters are on the line. At 6-1, 312 Johnny Erevia, 7-5 and advance to the second round of Heath Nickles:
pounds, tackle Thomas Goldsmith is Jacob Cook the playoffs. State champ in the
the largest player on the Allen East Worth noting: Woods “I was just real proud of them for the 300 hurdles and
roster. Center Nick Mason (5-9, 221) Goldsmith are the lone returners with It all starts with fact that if you go 1-4, a lot of teams pole vault is
is back as well. extended experience. tailback Blaine Schmitt, who led would just pack it in and start getting healthy heading
Both coach and running back give “It’s not as bad as it seems,” Woods the area in rushing last season. the basketballs out and going to shoot- into football season
credit to the line for Schmitt’s break- said. “Everybody else will be guys who The Mustangs lost a ton of expe- ing practices and stuff,” Palte said.
rience on defense, so the key will for the first time.
out junior year. Being patient, waiting played JV last year. It’s their turn to “Our kids, we never lost them.”
for his blockers to do their job and for step up.” be for Schmitt and the offense to
control the ball and keep the Palte will try to replace standout
the holes to appear is what Schmitt Allen East, which dropped from Di- quarterback Eric Maag with Adam Os- “We didn’t think we played real great
thinks sets him apart. vision V to VI this season, opens a new young defense off of the field.
terhage, a 6-3, 189-pound senior who defense last season and that’s been a
“When you’re patient, you’ve got stadium in week two against Colum- Aug. 24 at Bath played tight end in 2006. point of emphasis this summer, to try
blockers coming on the backside, so bus Grove. The stadium is bordered Aug. 31 COLUMBUS GROVE The defense was an area of concern to get better defensively. We think
you’ve got the cutback lane,” Schmitt on two sides by open fields and trees, Sept. 7 at Spencerville
for Palte in 2006. The Bulldogs allowed we’ve got some guys who can make
said. “That’s what I wait for most of creating a beautiful setting for a Fri- Sept. 14 DELPHOS JEFFERSON
Sept. 21 at Crestview 27 or more points seven times, includ- some plays. We’re hoping we can per-
the time, the cutback lane.” day night in the autumn. ing a 42-20 playoff loss to Hopewell- form a little better than we did last
Sept. 28 at Bluffton
The defense took the biggest hit “It is cool,” Schmitt said. “The field Oct. 5 PAULDING Loudon. year.”
with the departure of 17 players who is nice. I always wanted a new field to Oct. 12 at Ada “Defensively we have seven or eight Columbus Grove opens with its tra-
registered at least one tackle. Defen- play on and new facilities. That’s all Oct. 19 LIMA CENTRAL CATHOLIC guys back who played quite a bit,” Palte ditional rivalry game at Pandora-
sive end Matt Dues (6-2, 183), defen- good, but I miss the old school.” Oct. 26 SIDNEY LEHMAN CATHOLIC said. “Our defense, we’re excited to get Gilboa.
sive back John Kimmel (5-8, 135) and You can comment on this story at out there and make a few more plays You can comment on this story at
tackles Travis Phipps (6-0, 297) and www.limaohio.com. this year. www.limaohio.com.

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E10 Thursday, Aug. 23, 2007 WESTERN BUCKEYE LEAGUE The Lima News

WBL forecast
The following is a capsule look at the Western
Buckeye League football teams heading into the
2007 season. The teams are listed in predicted
order of finish:
Bulldogs want balanced offense
By TOM USHER
tusher@limanews.com
1. ST. MARYS — About one day after football 419-993-2089
cleats were invented, St. Marys started running
the ball. No surprise, the Roughriders will run
Koby Frye, who has gained nearly 2,700 yards ELIDA — In the midst of a hot,
the last two seasons, behind big tackles Jordan sweltering 93-degree day, there was
Crouch and Mike Breland. That, along with six the Elida football team running laps
returning defensive starters, could move St. around the practice field.
Marys up one spot in the league standings after It’s all in day’s work, according to
back-to-back second-place finishes in the WBL. its new coach.
“It’s all about changing the atti-
2. WAPAKONETA — The Redskins have one
of the league’s best quarterbacks, Drew Parker, tude,” Elida coach Jason Carpen-
several experienced running backs and some ter said. “There are higher expec-
solid linebackers among 17 returning lettermen tations here now.
from a WBL champion team. “You’re either going to do it our
way or you’re going to be sent to the
3. OTTAWA-GLANDORF — Replacing its lead- highway.”
ing rusher, the starting quarterback and two all- Elida, 1-9 last year, is 9-41 over the
WBL offensive linemen lead the list of things the last five seasons.
Titans need to do. But with 22 returning letter-
men they could make a run at a WBL title and a Carpenter comes to Elida after
third straight playoff appearance. serving as the defensive coordinator
at St. Petersburg (Fla.) Lakewood
4. SHAWNEE — Offensively, the Indians are High School. Before his two-year
well stocked with running back Brandon stint in Florida, he was an assistant
Stephenson (1,248 yards rushing) and quarter- for one year at Albion College
back Josh Miller (1,105 yards passing). Replac- (Mich.). Carpenter, who grew up in
ing some key defensive players and the offensive Milan, Mich., is a 1999 graduate of
line could take some time. KELLI CARDINAL photos • The Lima News
Milan High School and played out-
side linebacker and defensive back Cory Meyer (left) tries to avoid a tackle by teammate Mark Herge during a practice at Elida High School.
5. DEFIANCE — If Wapakoneta’s Parker isn’t the
best returning quarterback in the league, then the at Albion College.
Bulldogs’ Adam Wagner (1,300 yards, 14 TDs) is. Elida has seven returning letter-
men, so most positions are wide open. MOST WANTED ELIDA
6. KENTON — The Wildcats are to passing Returning starter Tyler Bly (5- Tyler Bly: Coach: Jason Carpenter
what St. Marys is to running the ball. Last year’s foot-8, 185 pounds) ran for 611 Ran for 611 Years, record at
quarterback, Dailyn Campbell, is at wide receiver yards, with a 5.7 average and two yards and a school: First, 0-0
this year, but the ball will still be in the air often.
touchdowns. He’ll share the back- 5.7 average last 2006 record: 1-9
field with Schuyler Crowe. year. He will also Returning
7. BATH — The Wildcats took a big hit when letterwinners: 7
leading rusher Todd Ruggley transferred to Lima The quarterback job is between 6- start at middle
foot junior C.J. Warren, who saw linebacker. Promising newcom-
Central Catholic earlier this year. Their resiliency ers: TE Drake Faris;
got a further test with some preseason discipli- time at the end of last season, and
nary action. Running back Shawn Stephens sophomore Shane Conrad. LB Derek Long;
could be a sleeper after missing last season be- Bly and Herge will handle two line- CB Dakota Bechdolt.
Carpenter mentioned sophomore
cause of an elbow injury. backer spots and Cody Wittkamp will Worth noting: Elida Carpenter
guard Tyler Sebenoler (6-0, 250)
anchor the line at defensive end. The starts over with a new
and tackle Tyler VonSossan (6-2,
8. CELINA — The Bulldogs hope they develop secondary features Moyer and sopho- coach, a new offense and a new de-
the ability to become more competitive. They were 250) as players who will be keys on fense. That’s a lot to take on for a
out of many games early last season when they the offensive line. more Dakota Bechdolt.
The enthusiastic Carpenter played young team with only seven lettermen.
were beaten five times by four touchdowns or more. Mark Herge is the fullback while
Matt Eilerman and Tyler Moyer in the state playoffs in high school Aug. 24 MARION LOCAL
9. VAN WERT — New coach Bob Priest likes de- head the receiving corps. and was in the Division III playoffs at Aug. 31 VAN WERT
fense, but the Cougars also need to find a way to Albion. Sept. 7 at Shawnee
Carpenter’s goal is to have a bal- Sept. 14 KENTON
score. They were shut out five times last season anced offense. “I love the situation I’m in because
and got just one touchdown in two other games. Sept. 21 OTTAWA-GLANDORF
“We’ll run a pro-style offense,” he we can start molding it into some- Sept. 28 at Bath
said. “I’d like to be 50-50 (run-to- thing better than it was,” he said. Oct. 5 at Celina
10. ELIDA — The Bulldogs were overmatched Oct. 12 at Defiance Varsity players Joel Perrin
almost every Friday night last season when they pass). With a lot of teams that run “We’re starting at rock bottom and
we’ll shoot for the stars.” Oct. 19 at Wapakoneta (left) and Drake Faris struggle
scored only 11 touchdowns in 10 games. Will a eight or nine guys in the box, you’ve Oct. 26 at St. Marys
year of experience and a new coach mean a got to be able to throw in this league.” You can comment on this story at to block each other during
change of direction for Elida’s program? The Bulldogs use a 3-3-5 defense. www.limaohio.com. practice at Elida High School.

2007 ELIDA

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The Lima News WESTERN BUCKEYE LEAGUE Thursday, Aug. 23, 2007 E11

Shawnee hopes 7 becomes lucky number

By TOM USHER
tusher@limanews.com
419-993-2089
SHAWNEE TOWNSHIP —
Shawnee football has come a
long way over the past 15 years.
Last year’s 7-3 season is no
longer cause for celebration.
That’s because the team didn’t
qualify for the playoffs.
The Indians have gone 31-20
over the last five years, includ-
ing the playoff year of 2004.
That marks a huge turnaround
from the teams that went 12-78
from 1993 to 2001.
“That’s twice now (since
2003) that we’ve been 7-3 and
short on computer points,”
Shawnee coach Dick West
said. “The seniors and juniors
in that group are really moti-
vated and want to make the
playoffs.”
This year’s Indians return
five starters on both offense
and defense. The key will be re-
placing the entire offensive line.
A 5-foot-7, 180-pound run-
ning back, junior Brandon
Stephenson ran for 1,246 yards
last year. He averaged 5.8 yards
per carry with 12 touchdowns.
Junior quarterback Josh
Miller (6-1, 195), who threw for
1,105 yards with 10 touch-
MOST WANTED SHAWNEE
Brandon Coach: Dick West
Stephenson: Years,
record at
Ran for
1,246 school:
10th,
yards, 5.8
average, 37-54
2006
with 12 TDs
record:
7-3
Returning
downs is also back. letterwin- West
“He has great leadership ners: 16
qualities,” West said of Miller. Promising
James Dillard and Tyler newcomers: LB Zach
Rhoades both are veterans at Rosenbauer; LB Nick
fullback. Jordan Parrish and Truesdale.
Nate Biss both saw time at wide Worth noting: The offense
receiver. will revolve around the
The line will have center running of Brandon
Derek Geiger, who started at Stephenson. But he must
nose guard last year. Guards find his way behind an in-
Mark Walters and Jeff Frueh experienced offensive line.
both saw action late in the year.
“We’re pretty green up there Aug. 24 ST. FRANCIS DE SALES
(on the line),” West said. “We’ll Aug. 31 at Kenton
run mostly I, but we’ll run some KELLI CARDINAL • The Lima News Sept. 7 ELIDA
Sept. 14 at Bath
one-back set, too. Miller is ex- Shawnee sophomore Brandon Stephenson looks to avoid a tackle Friday by St. Marys sopho- Sept. 21 CELINA
perienced now and we could more Josh Zimmerman during the first half at Shawnee High School. Sept. 28 at Defiance
run a little shotgun.” Oct. 5 WAPAKONETA
The defense needs to replace felter and Patick were named to and Parrish. of talent at the running back, Oct. 12 at St. Marys
its top three tacklers from last The Lima News Dream Team. West is also counting on line- receiver and quarterback (posi- Oct. 19 VAN WERT
year in linebacker Kenny Marsh, The returnees are ends Bo backers Sheldon Hall (6-2, 200), tion),” West said. “We have to Oct. 26 at Ottawa-Glandorf
first team all-state linebacker Sayre and Rhoades (69 tackles, Zach Rosenbauer (6-2, 230) and get that offensive line to jell.”
Derek Lingenfelter and defen- five sacks, 14 tackles for loss), Nick Truesdale (6-1, 200). You can comment on this story
sive back Derek Patick. Lingen- Geiger and cornerbacks Biss “The big key is we have a lot at www.limaohio.com.

BATH
Coach: Todd Clark
Years,
record at
Bath looking to be competitive in the WBL
school:
2nd, 3-7
(3-6 WBL)
Sophomore class promising “We have two competing at
quarterback right now,” Clark
fense, while on offense the Wild-
cats look to spread it out and MOST WANTED
said. “Brandon Mohr (6-3, 180) run a little option.
2006 Shawn
By MARK ALTSTAETTER year went undefeated. So, we and Zach Sterling (6-3, 180) will On defense, senior Bobby
record: 3-7 Stephens:
(3-6 WBL) sports@limanews.com have a group of sophomores that both have an opportunity of Mauk (6-2, 270) will spearhead
the front line. Looking to
Returning 419-993-2085 should see a lot of playing time.” playing.”
“We’re going to come into bounce
letterwin- One of the holes Clark looks to Clark said this year’s squad
every game, looking to win,” back after
ners: 19 Clark BATH TOWNSHIP — It will fill from last season is the loss of will be a lot stronger than last
be a work in progress at Bath. year. Mauk said. “Realistically, I know missing
Promising running back Todd Ruggley,
newcomers: Shawn However, second-year head “We didn’t have anyone last it’s going to be tough. The WBL last season,
who transferred to Lima Cen- Stephens
Stephens, Brandon Mohr coach Todd Clark is hoping to ac- tral Catholic. Ruggley rushed for year that could bench 300,” is very competitive. Our goal is
Worth noting: Bath will be celerate that progress. Clark said. “This year, we prob- to go over .500 and to make the should add
nearly 1,200 yards last season. some speed to the Bath
looking to spread it out of- In Clark’s first season at the ably have six to eight guys that playoffs.”
fensively. Look for the He was a second-team all- backfield.
helm, Bath went 3-7 overall and Northwest district selection in can bench 300.” You can comment on this story
Wildcats to run the option
more this season. 3-6 in the Western Buckeye Division IV. Bath will employ a 5-3 de- at www.limaohio.com.
League. This year, Clark is rely- That’s all in the past, though.
Aug. 24 ALLEN EAST ing on a mixture of juniors and
Aug. 31 at St. Marys
“Shawn Stephens dislocated
seniors along with a proven in- an elbow in two-a-days last
Sept. 7
Sept. 14
Sept. 21
at Van Wert
SHAWNEE
at Kenton
coming sophomore class to bring
Bath back to the upper echelon
year,” Clark said. “He would
have played a lot for us at run-
Three Sensible Words About Football
Sept. 28
Oct. 5
Oct. 12
Oct. 19
ELIDA
at Ottawa-Glandorf
CELINA
at Defiance
of the WBL.
“We’re down on numbers a lit-
tle bit,” Clark said. “(But) we
have a good group of kids com-
ning back. He has some speed.”
Junior Kori Wireman (6-0,
200) will be at the fullback spot.
But the quarterback spot re-
KICK • PUNT • PASS
Oct. 26 WAPAKONETA
ing in. Our freshman team last mains up for grabs. There’s Also
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2007 Celina
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E12 Thursday, Aug. 23, 2007 WESTERN BUCKEYE LEAGUE The Lima News

Redskins looking to build on success

Wapakoneta wants to
defend WBL title
By JIM NAVEAU
jnaveau@limanews.com
419-993-2087
WAPAKONETA — Neil
Armstrong already had Wa-
pakoneta on the map in a
larger sense, but the season
Wapakoneta’s football team
had last fall put them on the
football map.
The Redskins won 10 games,
were Western Buckeye League
champions, made their first
playoff appearance in 10 years
and didn’t bow out of the post-
season until they were stopped
by eventual Division II state
champion Piqua.
First-year Wapakoneta
coach Doug Zimmer assesses
the effect of that success in
2006 on this season this way:
“It really helps the kids as
far as their confidence and
getting in the weight room in
the off-season. But you have
to realize if you want to con-
tinue to be in that position
you have to work harder,” he
said.
“Since you’ve been there
(the playoffs) teams are out to
get you. You’re on the map,
you’re on the bulletin board.”
Wapakoneta goes into this
season with 17 lettermen and
a sizable number of returning
starters on both sides of the
ball. Starting quarterback
Drew Parker (1,603 yards, 17
touchdown passes) leads the
list of offensive returnees. On
defense, linebackers like Brad
Steinke and Tyler Shipp are
MOST WANTED
Drew Parker:
Threw for
1,603 yards
and 17 TDs
last season
as a junior.
among the leaders.
“We’re very fortunate to
have kids on both sides of the
ball who got playing experi-
ence last year,” Zimmer said.
“A strength for us would be
the experience factor. These
kids have been through some
postseason experiences and
some league situations. They
know what they need to do
and what needs to happen.”
The Redskins do have some
big holes to fill, though.
Parker’s top two receivers,
Randy Schmerge and B.J. KELLI CARDINAL • The Lima News
Reed both graduated, as did Wapakoneta junior Devin Chambers attempts to avoid a tackle by a Shawnee defender during last season’s game.
the leading rusher, Andrew
Maitlin. Schmerge signed to
play at the University of Find-
lay and Reed will play football WAPAKONETA
for Ashland University. 2007 SCHEDULE
Coach: Doug Zimmer
And there is a new coach in Aug. 24 BELLEFONTAINE
charge. Kevin Fell and his 207 Years, record at school: First, 0-0 Aug. 31 CELINA
2006 record: 10-2
career victories departed for Sept. 7 at Defiance
Amherst Steele High School Returning letterwinners: 17 Sept. 14 at Ottawa-Glandorf
Promising newcomers: Jim Halter, Brad Roop, Evan Sept. 21 ST. MARYS
after last season.
Zimmer was the head coach Saunders, Cody Wycuff, Ryan Azbell, Brad Wurster Sept. 28 at Van Wert
Worth noting: Competition at running back could be Oct. 5 at Shawnee
at Greenville the last three sea-
intense with Adam Lowther, Garrett Lange, Zac Lauk Oct. 12 KENTON
sons. The Green Wave had an Zimmer Oct. 19 ELIDA
11-19 record during that time. and Jason Bartlett battling for playing time.
Oct. 26 at Bath
You can comment on this story
at www.limaohio.com.

2007 Delphos St. Johns

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The Lima News WESTERN BUCKEYE LEAGUE Thursday, Aug. 23, 2007 E13

Titans need offensive

leaders to step up
By JIM NAVEAU
jnaveau@limanews.com
“Replacing the quarterback is going to
419-993-2087
be big for us. Hermiller is a guy we’re
OTTAWA — Many of their
peers on other teams might
looking for big things out of.”
envy the air-conditioned — Ken Schriner
weight room Ottawa-Glan- Ottawa-Glandorf coach
dorf’s football team has.
But the success the Titans
have had recently with back-
to-back playoff appearances
MOST WANTED OTTAWA GLANDORF
the last two years is even more John Coach: Ken Schriner
enviable. Kreinbrink: Years,
The Titans’ ability to get into Two-way record at
the playoffs three straight years starter at school:
might hinge on finding re- linebacker/ 12th,
placements in three key areas fullback. 71-47
— running back, quarterback 2006
and on the offensive line. record:
Brian Recker rushed for 7-4
more than 1,500 yards last sea- brink and Ben Inkrott started Returning
son when O-G finished 7-4. He last season. So did defensive letterwin- Schriner
also started at linebacker. backs Luke Bellman, Taylor ners: 22
Tyler Closson was the starting Pothast and Alex Hermiller. Promising newcomers:
quarterback and senior offen- Offensively, linemen A.J. Ho- Sean Brinkman, Ryan
sive linemen Brent Diller, Ben henbrink and Jordan Conn, Horstman, Tyler McFar-
Gerding and Aaron Hovest tight end Brent Kuhlman, land, Jake Meyer, Derrick
cleared the way for Recker. wide receiver Jacob Moening Schierloh, Justin Halker,
Diller, Gerding and Recker and Kreinbrink at fullback are Tony Maher
were first-team all-Western returning starters. Worth noting: O-G came
Buckeye League. Jake Meyer is the probable on strong in the second
“Overall we do have a good starter at quarterback and half of last season when
core group coming back. We Hermiller is the leading candi- it returned to the basics.
need guys to step up and make date to take over at running With a new quarterback
plays,” Ottawa-Glandorf coach back. and a new running back
Ken Schriner said. “Replacing the quarterback this season, that philoso-
Back-to-back playoff ap- is going to be big for us. Her- phy could be back for a
pearances “puts a bull’s-eye on miller is a guy we’re looking for second year in a row.
our back,” Schriner said. “In big things out of,” Schriner Aug. 24 at Fostoria
terms of what we want to do, I said. Aug. 31 DEFIANCE
think we raised the bar last One of his top targets in the Sept. 7 at Kenton
year. We have high expecta- passing game could be Luke Sept. 14 WAPAKONETA
Bellman, a starter at defensive Sept. 21 at Elida
tions for this year. Our kids Sept. 28 ST. MARYS
want to get back there again.” back last season. “He’s going
Oct. 5 BATH
O-G has 22 returning letter- to have to be a big-play guy for Oct. 12 at Van Wert
DEAN BROWN • The Lima News men. Eleven Titans are re- us. He’s very fast and athletic,” Oct. 19 at Celina
turning starters, five on offense Schriner said. Oct. 26 SHAWNEE
Ottawa-Glandorf running back John Kreinbrink bursts through a hole during last season’s matchup You can comment on this story
with WBL foe Bath. and six on defense. Lineback-
ers Andrew Stead, John Krein- at www.limaohio.com.

2007 Shawnee
INDIANS
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E14 Thursday, Aug. 23, 2007 2007 PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW The Lima News

• Metro Creative photo

2007 COMPOSITE SCHEDULE

August 24 NWCC September 15 September 29 October 13
Delphos Jefferson at Paulding
WBL NWC NWC Troy Christian at Delphos Jefferson
Wayne Trace at Waynesfield
Celina at Lima Senior Columbus Grove at LCC Spencerville at LCC
Riverdale at Perry
Marion Local at Elida
Allen East at Bath
Hicksville at USV October 19
Ridgemont at Cin. Summit Country Day September 21
Van Wert at Bryan
OTHER October 5 WBL
Columbus De Sales at Shawnee WBL WBL Ottawa-Glandorf at Celina
Dublin Coffman at Lima Senior
Ottawa-Glandorf at Fostoria Jonathan Alder at Indian Lake Bath at Kenton Van Wert at Shawnee
Napoleon at Defiance Bath at Ottawa-Glandorf
Ottawa-Glandorf at Elida St. Marys at Kenton
St. Marys at Piqua Van Wert at St. Marys Bath at Defiance
Celina at Shawnee
Bellefontaine at Wapakoneta September 7 St. Marys at Wapakoneta Defiance at Kenton Elida at Wapakoneta
Kenton at Coldwater WBL Van Wert at Defiance Wapakoneta at Shawnee MAC
MAC Ottawa-Glandorf at Kenton MAC Elida at Celina Versailles at St. Henry
Fort Recovery at Ansonia Elida at Shawnee MAC Delphos St. John’s at New Bremen
Minster at Marion Local
Anna at Sidney Lehman St. Marys at Celina Parkway at St. Henry Minster at Parkway
Kenton at Coldwater Parkway at New Bremen
Bath at Van Wert Anna at Fort Recovery Anna at Delphos St. John’s Anna at Marion Local
Fort Loramie at Minster Wapakoneta at Defiance Fort Recovery at Coldwater
Covington at New Bremen St. Henry at Coldwater Versailles at New Bremen
MAC NWC
Versailles at Dayton Oakwood Coldwater at New Bremen NWC Minster at Coldwater
Marion Local at Elida Bluffton at Ada Fort Recovery at Marion Local LCC at Allen East
Parkway at Delphos St. John’s Columbus Grove at Crestview
Crestview at Parkway St. Henry at Marion Local Allen East at Crestview NWC
NWC Spencerville at Columbus Grove Spencerville at Cols. Bishop Hartley
Minster at Fort Recovery Cols. Bishop Ready at LCC
Allen East at Bath LCC at Delphos Jefferson Ada at Delphos Jefferson
Anna at Versailles Delphos Jefferson at Columbus Grove Bluffton at Paulding
Cory-Rawson at Bluffton NWC BVC
Ada at Hardin Northern Bluffton at Spencerville BVC
Columbus Grove at Ada Hardin Northern at Leipsic
Spencerville at Indian Lake Ada at Crestview Cory-Rawson at Pandora-Gilboa
Allen East at Spencerville Pandora-Gilboa at Arcadia
Columbus Grove at Pandora-Gilboa Crestview at Wayne Trace Van Buren at Cory-Rawson Paulding at Allen East Vanlue at Leipsic
Crestview at Parkway Paulding at LCC NWCC BVC Hardin Northern at Liberty-Benton
Delphos Jefferson at Col. Harvest Prep. BVC Delta at Paulding Hardin Northern at Cory-Rawson NWCC
Wayne Trace at Paulding Leipsic at Cory-Rawson Riverside at Waynesfield Liberty-Benton at Leipsic Ridgemont at Waynesfield
BVC Vanlue at Pandora-Gilboa Pandora-Gilboa at Van Buren USV at Perry
Perry at Fairbanks
Cory-Rawson at Bluffton Hardin Northern at McComb Bluffton at Paulding
USV at Marion Catholic NWCC
Ada at Hardin Northern NWCC OTHER
Leipsic at Patrick Henry Yellow Springs at Ridgemont Perry at Ridgemont
Paulding at LCC Lima Senior at Findlay
Columbus Grove at Pandora-Gilboa OTHER USV at Waynesfield
North Lewisburg Triad at Waynesfield Indian Lake at Benjamin Logan
NWCC Perry at USV Lima Senior at Warren G. Harding Paulding at Allen East
Richwood North Union at Perry Riverdale at Ridgemont Indian Lake at Bellefontaine OTHER
Wayne Trace at Paulding OTHER Lima Senior at Sandusky October 26
Ridgemont at Dayton Christian Lima Senior at Middletown September 22 Urbana at Indian Lake WBL
USV at Lakeside Danbury Indian Lake at Sidney Lehman Catholic Kenton at Van Wert
Waynesfield at Vanlue MAC
Shawnee at Ottawa-Glandorf
OTHER Versailles at Delphos St. John’s October 12
September 8 Elida at St. Marys
Celina at Lima Senior Defiance at Celina
NWC WBL
Spencerville at Indian Lake September 28 Wapakoneta at Bath
Bluffton at Delphos Jefferson Ottawa-Glandorf at Van Wert
WBL Shawnee at St. Marys MAC
August 25 St. Marys at Ottawa-Glandorf Defiance at Elida Parkway at Versailles
NWC September 14 Shawnee at Defiance Minster at Anna
Kenton at Wapakoneta
Delphos St. John’s at LCC WBL Elida at Bath St. Henry at Fort Recovery
Kenton at Elida Celina at Bath New Bremen at Marion Local
MAC Kenton at Celina
Marion Pleasant at St. Henry Wapakoneta at Ottawa-Glandorf MAC NWC
Wapakoneta at Van Wert St. Henry at Minster
Shawnee at Bath Bluffton at Columbus Grove
MAC
Defiance at St. Marys Marion Local at Delphos St. John’s Delphos Jefferson at Spencerville
August 31 Celina at Van Wert Coldwater at Parkway
New Bremen at Fort Recovery Sidney Lehman Catholic at Allen East
WBL MAC Delphos St. John’s at Fort Recovery
New Bremen at Minster Coldwater at Versailles Paulding at Crestview
Shawnee at Kenton Coldwater at Anna BVC
St. Henry at Anna Parkway at Anna
Defiance at Ottawa-Glandorf Delphos St. John’s at Minster Arcadia at Cory-Rawson
Bath at St. Marys Marion Local at Parkway Marion Local at Versailles NWC
LCC at Bluffton Arlington at Hardin Northern
Van Wert at Elida New Bremen at St. Henry NWC
Paulding at Columbus Grove Leipsic at McComb
Celina at Wapakoneta Versailles at Fort Recovery Troy Christian at Columbus Grove
MAC Liberty-Benton at Pandora-Gilboa
NWC Ada at Paulding Crestview at Spencerville
Marion Local at Coldwater Fort Loramie at Ada NWCC
Allen East at Bluffton Allen East at Ada
Delphos St. John’s at St. Henry Delphos Jefferson at Allen East Paulding at Crestview
Crestview at Delphos Jefferson BVC
Versailles at Minster Crestview at Bluffton Waynesfield at Fairbanks
BVC McComb at Cory-Rawson Perry at Riverside
New Bremen at Anna Paulding at Spencerville Cory-Rawson at Vanlue
Fort Recovery at Parkway BVC Pandora-Gilboa at Hardin Northern Yellow Springs at USV
Van Buren at Hardin Northern Arlington at Leipsic Marion Catholic at Ridgemont
NWC Leipsic at Van Buren Leipsic at Pandora-Gilboa
Spencerville at Ada Pandora-Gilboa at McComb NWCC OTHER
NWCC Marion Harding at Lima Senior
Columbus Grove at Allen East Cory-Rawson at Arlington Paulding at Columbus Grove
LCC at Crestview Arcadia at Hardin Northern Waynesfield at Yellow Springs Springfield Northwestern at Indian Lake
Marion Catholic at Perry Waynesfield at Marion Catholic
Delphos Jefferson at Paulding NWCC Perry at Yellow Springs
Springfield Catholic Central at Bluffton Paulding at Spencerville Ada at Paulding
BVC Waynesfield at Perry Fairbanks at USV Riverside at USV October 27
Arcadia at Leipsic Ridgemont at USV Ridgemont at Riverside Fairbanks at Ridgemont NWC
Pandora-Gilboa at Arlington OTHER OTHER OTHER Ada at LCC
Cory-Rawson at Liberty-Benton Meadowdale at Lima Senior Fremont Ross at Lima Senior Lima Senior at Napoleon MAC
Hardin Northern at Vanlue Tippecanoe at Indian Lake Indian Lake at Greenon Indian Lake at St. Paris Graham Local Coldwater at Delphos St. John’s
The Lima News 2007 PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW Thursday, Aug. 23, 2007 E15

Favorite female sports star

Maria Sharapova (above)
Need
know
Amanda Beard
2
The Lima News asked the questions
and area athletes gave the answers
• Associated
press photos

61% 0%
Jennie Finch Heather Mitts
21% 0%
Danica Patrick (at right) Natalie Gulbis
18% 0%

Best sports movie

Favorite NFL QB
Other
43%
Peyton Manning (above)
25%
Major Field of Any Rocky The Bull The Carson Palmer
League Dreams movie Rookie Durham Natural 22%
31% 26% 26% 13% 4% 0%
Brett Favre
6%
What’s the biggest key to the success of Donovan McNabb
a football program? 4%
Good chemistry The lines (offensive/defensive)
55% 45% Does David Beckham
Offensive skill positions Defensive secondary
0% 0%
change your
Linebackers Special teams interest in soccer?
0% 0% I have never watched soccer
59%
Which of these events Who?
19%
usually shown on the Makes me more interested
ESPN channels requires 15%
the most athletic ability? Already interested
7%
Beach volleyball
67%
“Madden” video game tournaments
What’s more
14% important ...
Golf Winning a league title
11% 70%
Cheerleading competitions Winning two playoff games
8% 30%
Texas Hold’em Poker tournaments
0%
Bowling Who would you
0%
most like to meet?
Favorite football team Jessica Alba (at left)
59%
Ohio State 63%
Michigan 15% Hilary Duff
Other 11% 26%
Browns 7% Paris Hilton
Bengals 4% 15%
E16 Thursday, Aug. 23, 2007
St. Marys junior Derek Dunlap looks to throw a pass during last season’s game against Shawnee.
Story remains the same at St. Marys
By JEREMY SCHNEIDER
jschneider@limanews.com
419-993-2088
ST. MARYS — Coaches try to
put a few new wrinkles into
their game plan each season.
When asked whether the wrin-
kles for St. Marys could include
passing the ball a bit more,
coach Doug Frye smiled.
“We’re St. Marys and we’re
always going to be St. Marys,”
Frye said. “We’re the same
team we’ve always been.”
So, forget what might have
been rumored or whispered
around the water cooler. This will
be typical St. Marys football.
“It’s a no-nonsense type of
team so far,” Frye said.
“There’s not a lot of frill and
not a lot of baggage. Every day
we come to work.”
Really, why fix something that
isn’t broken? Nothing is wrong in
St. Marys, which returns 13 let-
terwinners. Chief among them
is 5-foot-11, 185-pound running
back Koby Frye. He leads the
Western Buckeye League in
rushing over the last two years
with 2,689 yards.
“He’s a kid that God has
blessed with some ability,” coach
WESTERN BUCKEYE LEAGUE The Lima News
Van Wert has a new
look this season
By MARK ALTSTAETTER
sports@limanews.com
419-993-2085
VAN WERT
Coach: Bob Priest
Years,
VAN WERT — In the mid- record at
1980s, Bob Priest roamed Eg- school:
geress Field as a Van Wert First, 0-0
football player. Priest played 2006
for then Van Wert coach and record: 1-9
now Defiance coach Jerry (0-9 WBL)
Buti. Returning
Now, Priest takes over a pro- letterwin-
ners: 17
gram that went 1-9 (0-9 West- Promising Priest
ern Buckeye League) last sea- newcom-
son, under the guidance of ers: Tyler Leaser (5-10,
long-time coach Jeff Hood. 200, Soph), Austin McIn-
Before returning home to tosh (5-7, 215, Jr)
Van Wert, Priest was an as- Worth noting: The Cougars
sistant coach at Findlay look to rely on its defense to
(1992-1993). He then was an stay competitive in the WBL.
assistant coach under Buti at Aug. 24 at Bryan
Defiance (1993-1995). Aug. 31 at Elida
KELLI CARDINAL • The Lima News Sept. 7 BATH
Priest earned his first head Sept. 14 CELINA
coaching position at Edon Sept. 21 at Defiance
(1995-1997), where he went Sept. 28 WAPAKONETA
8-12 in two seasons. And for Oct. 5 ST. MARYS
the past 10 seasons, Priest
was an assistant at Archbold.
Priest is hoping to turn the
Van Wert program around.
Oct. 12
Oct. 19
Oct. 26
OTTAWA-GLANDORF
at Shawnee
KENTON
linebacker, returns for his third “It helps that three of my
MOST WANTED season as a starter. Along with
ST. MARYS coaches that return from last
Rammel, linebackers Brad Fra-
Koby Frye: Coach: Doug Frye year’s team are from the de- MOST WANTED
In the last zier (6-1, 175) and Josh Zim- Years, fensive side of the football,”
merman (6-1, 205), defensive Steve
two regular record at Priest said. “Our system will Sealscott:
seasons Frye back Derek Dunlap (6-1, 165) school: lie in our defense.”
and lineman Adam Knous (6-1, Safety was
has carried 9th, 73-29 On defense, senior Steve
245) and Marcus Neal (6-1, 270) 2006 an honor-
430 times for Sealscott (5-foot-11, 185 able men-
2,689 yards. reclaim their starting positions. record: 9- pounds) returns at safety.
St. Marys’ junior-dominated 3, 7-2 WBL tion all-WBL
Returning
Sealscott was an honorable last season.
defense got plenty of experience
letterwin- mention all-Western Buckeye
last year.
Frye said. “He works hard at his ners: 13 League selection last season.
“They got baptized in this
game. He goes as far as his peo- Promising Frye Senior Jacob York (5-11, 160)
league a little bit,” coach Frye joins Sealscott in the sec- niors and all of them will see
ple up front and that’s the key to newcom-
said. “We hope that our defense ers: Tyler Norton, Steve playing time. I put a lot on
this football team.” ondary at cornerback.
is the strongest point of our Beckett, Corey Menker, the shoulders of the seniors.
The Roughriders (9-3, 7-2 team and it should be.” Two linebackers return for
WBL in 2006) lost their starting Nate Brown, Jarred Seaver, the Cougars, seniors Todd So, once they start believing,
There is always pressure on Kyle Henning
guards and center, so filling Krugh (5-9, 180) and Thaison then it should take off from
the Roughriders, who won Worth noting: The
those positions are of the ut- Leaser (5-11, 170). there.”
three Division II state titles in Roughriders have finished
most urgency. “We will be quicker than Offensively, Sealscott is
the early 1990s. Frye has com- second in the WBL the last
They aren’t starting from piled a 73-29 record over his two years after winning some teams, and we will be back at running back while
scratch, though. Returning arenine years with two WBL titles, back-to-back titles in bigger than some teams,” senior Corey Keber (6-1,
tackles Jordan Crouch (6-4, 260
six playoff appearances and a 2003 and ’04. Priest said. “There’s really 180) returns at quarterback.
pounds) and Mike Breland (6-3,state runner-up finish in 2004. Aug. 24 at Piqua no one thing that stands out Leaser looks to carry the
285). Jarred Seaver (6-1, 300) “I think that’s a good thing,” Aug. 31 BATH that puts us above anyone load at the fullback position,
transferred from Minster and fig-
Frye said. “It’s one of the rea- Sept. 7 at Celina else.” which is a key position in
ures to start at center. sons I took the job here. You Sept. 14 DEFIANCE The Cougars return 17 let- Priest’s offense.
“We’re pretty big up front,” Sept. 21 at Wapakoneta terwinners from last year. “We definitely want to try
want to be part of a program Sept. 28 at Ottawa-Glandorf
Koby Frye said. “This is defi-where there are high expecta- Priest is hoping to get his to run the football,” Priest
Oct. 5 VAN WERT
nitely the best line I’ve ever run
tions, where the kids are held Oct. 12 SHAWNEE players to believe in his sys- said. “Our passing game will
behind.” accountable and the kids want Oct. 19 at Kenton tem. be a quick-passing type of of-
The defense lost some key to be successful.” Oct. 26 ELIDA “It’s just a matter of when fense.”
players as well, but Sam Ram- You can comment on this story everybody will turn around,” You can comment on this story
mel, a 5-11, 185-pound senior at www.limaohio.com. Priest said. “We have 10 se- at www.limaohio.com.
2007 Ada
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The Lima News WESTERN BUCKEYE LEAGUE Thursday, Aug. 23, 2007 E17

Celina rebuilding in tough WBL Kenton looks

By MIKE MILLER
sports@limanews.com
419-993-2085

CELINA — Jerry Harris is entering the

second year of his second stint as Celina’s
head coach with a realistic attitude.
CELINA
Coach: Jerry Harris
Years, record at
school: 2nd, 2-8
2006 record: 2-8, 2-7
Western Buckeye
MOST WANTED
Derek Wade:
The 6-foot,
234-pound
center will
to reload
Coming off of a 2-8 season, Harris is By MARK ALTSTAETTER
League anchor the
sports@limanews.com
looking for the Bulldogs to take small Worth noting: The Bull- line for Celina. 419-993-2085
KENTON
steps to returning to competitiveness and dogs scored less than Coach: Mike Mauk
respectability. 10 points in six games Years,
“Last year we were out of many games last year. They finished KENTON — It’s not a big record at
by halftime,” Harris said. “We look to be the season on a four- Harris secret what kind of offense school:
Celina’s Kenton runs. That’s some-
much more competitive this year.” game losing streak. 25th,
Derek Gagle thing that doesn’t change for 154-106
Harris mentioned two key areas of im- Aug. 24 at Lima Senior (7) looks for
provement made by the Bulldogs during Aug. 31 at Wapakoneta the Wildcats. 2006
running room “I really don’t know how to record:
the offseason. Sept. 7 ST. MARYS
Sept. 14 at Van Wert during last run the football that well,” 5-5, 5-4
“We are much stronger physically than WBL
last year.” Harris said. “There has also Sept. 21 at Shawnee season’s Kenton coach Mike Mauk
Sept. 28 KENTON game against Returning
been a significant improvement in atti- said with a smile. “So, I guess letterwin- Mauk
Oct. 5 ELIDA Van Wert.
tude and work ethic.” Oct. 12 at Bath
we will continue to throw it.” ners: 25
However, rebuilding a down program Oct. 19 Ottawa-Glandorf DON SPECK Kenton is coming off a 5-5 Promising
takes time and Harris faces a numbers Oct. 26 DEFIANCE • The Lima News season (5-4 Western Buckeye Newcomers: Senior wide
crunch that will affect the depth of his League). The Wildcats have receivers Seth Dobbins,
team. made the playoffs six times Josh Pemberton and Wes
“We only have 45 kids out this year and and have won two state titles Goldsmith.
we have to improve on that number.” the option while the defense will appear (2001 and 2002) under the Worth noting: Coach Mauk
Harris said. “We have 13 letterwinners in multiple sets. Harris mentioned both guidance of Mauk. looks to stay with his
back but only six starters on offense and the 4-4 and the 5-3 as prime defensive op- spread offense that will
However, this year’s edition feature five receivers.
three on defense.” tions for the Bulldogs. to be strong again this season and will of Kenton football lost 14
Key players for the Bulldogs include ju- Potential key defensive players for the present many challenges to the Bulldogs’ starters. Aug. 24 at Coldwater
nior Derek Gagle, a 6-foot-1, 200-pound Bulldogs include 6-3, 202-pound senior attempt at improvement. “We’ll have to fill a lot of Aug. 31 SHAWNEE
quarterback. linemen Eric Link and 6-0, 192-pound “There are some outstanding teams in Sept. 7 OTTAWA-GLANDORF
the WBL this year.” Harris said. “It is these holes,” Mauk said. “We
Derek Wade (6-0, 234) will anchor the junior tackle Aaron Snyder. Sept. 14 at Elida
possible for three teams to make the have plenty of sophomores Sept. 21 BATH
line at center for Celina and 6-3, 183- Linebackers will include junior Dylan
Pottkotter (5-10, 194) and senior Cole playoffs.” and juniors returning, that Sept. 28 at Celina
pound senior Zach Sams will lead the
Schaffner (6-0, 180). really do not have much var- Oct. 5 DEFIANCE
wide receivers. You can comment on this story at Oct. 12 at Wapakoneta
Gagle will lead the Celina offense out of The Western Buckeye League appears sity experience. That con-
www.limaohio.com. Oct. 19 ST. MARYS
cerns me.”
Oct. 26 at Van Wert
There are four starters re-
turning on offense and four

Defiance will depend on strong line on defense. Offensively, the

Wildcats are looking to throw
the football, like they have in
the past. MOST WANTED
By JIM LANGHAM Rubio and Wilde at outside linebacker are “If it’s possible to be con- Tyler
sports@limanews.com all veteran players. servative when you throw, Slonecker:
419-993-2085 Adam Wagner, who was second-team all- DEFIANCE
then that will probably be One of the
Western Buckeye League last season, re- Coach: Jerry Buti us,” Mauk said. “We need to few returning
DEFIANCE —It’s no secret where De- turns for his third year at quarterback. Years, record at school:
17th, 129-56 take the pressure off our de- receivers that
fiance has all its eggs. The offensive line Wagner accumulated 1,300 yards passing,
2006 record: 6-4 fense.” will help lead
is the basket the Bulldogs hope will carry completed 65 percent of his passes and
Returning letterwinners: 14 Trevor Beazley is the front- the offense
them to back-to-back win- threw for 14 touchdowns.
Promising newcomers: Ty Par- runner for the vacant quar-
nings seasons. Travis Spitnale should
rish, Drew Small, Adam Bates, terback position. At 6-foot-6,
“Last year was our first earn the starting nod at Mike Casarez, Derron Pritchett, Mauk said. “We feel that he
winning season in four MOST WANTED running back. The 5-foot-
210 pounds, Beazley started
Nathan McCalla, Cody Manon, at the end of last season can really help us at a re-
years,” coach Jerry Buti Adam Wagner: 10, 160-pound junior Gabe Stuck, Clayton Dorsey ceiver position.”
said. “If we can get help rushed for 300 yards last against Shawnee.
The quarterback was Worth noting: Chad Steyer, However, he has some com- All-WBL lineman Addam
from the line, we’ve got second-team all-WBL season with five touch- Adam Wagner, Eric Garcia, Eric Hale (5-7, 210) again anchors
quite a bit of experience in downs. The Bulldogs will Rubio, Elliott Wilde, Alex Perez, petition coming from Brian
last season. Thompson (6-2, 210). the Wildcat defense. He’s
the skilled positions.” also receive rushing help Jordan Trejo
As usual, Kenton has an joined up front by juniors
The Bulldogs have sev- from senior Ryan George
(6-5, 190), who was out Aug. 24 NAPOLEON ample supply of receivers to Tyler Bordner (6-1, 240) and
eral key offensive players
returning and are looking at decent de- much of last season with an injury. Aug. 31 at Ottawa-Glandorf fill the five-wide formation. Randy Weyant (5-10, 190).
fensive help. But how the offensive line As a freshman, wide receiver Alex Sept. 7 WAPAKONETA Seniors Corey Manns (6-1, “There are probably going
develops will play a major role in the de- Nofziger had 30 catches and five touch- Sept. 14 at St. Marys 185), Sean Kleinfelter (6-1, to be five teams that will be in
velopment of the team. downs. The 5-10, 155-pound receiver Sept. 21 VAN WERT 190) and Tyler Slonecker (5- that upper tier,” Mauk said.
The Bulldogs return two linemen from hopes to improve on those numbers dur- Sept. 28 SHAWNEE 6, 140) return with former “Then, there will be five oth-
last year’s squad in senior offensive guard ing his sophomore campaign. Oct. 5 at Kenton quarterback Dailyn Campbell ers, including us, that are
Chad Steyer and junior offensive tackle The Bulldogs finished last season with Oct. 12 at Elida (6-1, 215) lining up outside as missing maybe one or two
Jordan Trejo. Dace Kime, Elliott Wilde a 6-4 record overall and 6-3 (third place) Oct. 19 BATH well. key players that could put
and center Casey Fuhrmann are also ex- in the Western Buckeye League. “We will use Dailyn at a re- them into the top half.”
Oct. 26 at Celina
pected to make significant contributions. You can comment on this story at ceiver position and also at a You can comment on this
Defensive backs Eric Garcia and Eric www.limaohio.com. defensive back position,” story at www.limaohio.com.

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E18 Thursday, Aug. 23, 2007 M I DW E S T AT H L E T I C C O N F E R E N C E The Lima News

MAC forecast
The following is a capsule look at the Midwest
Athletic Conference football teams heading into
the 2007 season. The teams are listed in pre-
dicted order of finish:
1. COLDWATER — The Cavaliers have won 11
games or more eight of the last nine seasons.
With “skill” position players like receiver Ryan
Geier, running back Tony Harlamert, quarterback
Cory Klenke and linebacker Adam Homan, they
have a chance to add to that streak. The ques-
tion mark is on the lines. The offensive line will
have five new starters. On defense, three-year
starter Tyler Kunk is the only returning lineman.
2. MARION LOCAL — If the Flyers hadn’t
been moved up to Division V, they might have
taken a run at repeating their Division VI state
title of 2006. Quarterback Chris Stucke (23 TD
passes) leads eight returning starters. Running
back Ben Schaefer gained 100 yards in the
state title game when injury sidelined last year’s
leading rusher, Marc Otte.
3. ST. HENRY — The Redskins have only five
starters back from last year’s Division V state
champs, which would be considered a rebuilding
year at most places. Except that St. Henry really
doesn’t have rebuilding years. The Redskins have
won five or more games 31 straight years. It’s one
and done for most of this year’s seniors, who might
want to make a bit of a name for themselves.
4. DELPHOS ST. JOHN’S — The Blue Jays are
talking about an extreme offensive makeover,
transforming themselves from a power team to a
team that uses more passing formations and
throws the ball around more after losing all 11 of-
fensive starters to graduation. The rest of the MAC
will believe it when they see it. Five returning
starters on defense, led by linebacker Tyler Kroeger
(114 tackles) gives St. John’s a base to build on.
5. ANNA — The Rockets silenced a lot of
doubters by going 6-4, including wins over St.
John’s and Versailles, in their first year in the MAC
last season. To do as well this year, they will have
to compensate for the loss of a strong senior
class. Cory Sniffen (1,868 yards rushing, five inter-
ceptions on defense) leads six returning starters.
6. VERSAILLES — Versailles was an unchar-
acteristic 5-5 last season in coach Jason Schon-
delmyer’s first season, following the legendary Al
Hetrick (six state titles). The Tigers have concen-
trated on becoming bigger, faster and stronger to
be more competitive in the MAC this season.
7. MINSTER — The Wildcats are young, with
only seven seniors on their roster. But two-way
starters give them returning starters at more posi-
tions than that. They will need juniors and sopho-
mores to step up to get into the MAC title race.
8. PARKWAY — Jordan Thompson led the
MAC in tackles as a linebacker last season and
has drawn college attention. The Panthers need
more around him to move up in the standings.
9. FORT RECOVERY — Fort Recovery ended
last season with nine straight losses. Quarter-
back Toby Metzger (1,589 yards passing) is a
good starting point.
10. NEW BREMEN — Last season ended on a
divisive note off the field when coach Chad
Williams was fired after the Cardinals won two
games in his two seasons on the job. On the field,
the Cardinals will rely on players like quarterback
Bryce Bergman (974 yards passing last season).
Tradition drives MAC football
It was probably the 1990 state
football championship game when it
hit me.
St. Henry quarterback Bob Hoy-
ing was taking his Redskins down
the field to the game-winning score
against Sandusky St. Mary.
Suddenly, I realized how big this
was. Not just to St. Henry, but to
the Midwest Athletic Conference
and our whole area.
From then on, my whole thinking
on high school football changed.
No longer did I consider Divi-
sion I football (with the likes of
Lima Senior, Cincinnati St.
Xavier, Moeller, Elder, etc.) the
only prep football to watch.
My eyes were opened by the way
the game was played in the MAC.
Since 1989, the MAC has won 16
football state championships. St.
Henry has won six, while Delphos
St. Henry knows about follow-up years
By JIM NAVEAU
jnaveau@limanews.com
419-993-2087
ST. HENRY — Despite a mid-
summer heat wave, the grass on St.
Henry’s football field was thick,
green and without bare spots when
the Redskins lined up for their team
photo earlier this month.
Now St. Henry hopes a new crop
of players fills in as well as the turf
on their home field did.
St. Henry, the defending Division
V state champion, heads into this
season with just five players who
have started a varsity game.
Players like running back Andy
Puthoff (2,398 yards, 37 TDs), quar-
terback Doug Griesdorn and line-
backer Ryan Hartke, who led the
Redskins to a 14-1 record, have
graduated.
St. Henry has won six state foot-
ball titles overall and two in coach
Jeff Starkey’s first four seasons at
the school. It also has been state
runner-up twice.
That’s a tough act to follow, even
for a more experienced team. But
this year’s seniors have experienced
it once before when they watched
how the 2005 team followed St.
Henry’s 2004 state champs.
“They’ve had to follow a good se-
nior class. They’ve had a good class
in front of them to learn from and
they can leave their own mark on
the program,” Starkey said. “A lot of
these guys have had to sit behind
St. John’s has won
four and Marion
Local has three. Tom
Minster, Coldwater Usher
and Versailles have
The Lima News
won one each while
in the MAC. tusher@limanews.com
419-993-2089
In 2005, two MAC
teams won football state titles in
the same season for the first time
when Coldwater and Delphos St.
John’s did it. Last year, the MAC
double was achieved again when
Marion Local and St. Henry
brought back titles.
Many people have theories
about why the MAC has been so
dominant.
“I know people get tired of hear- Schulte said. “The kids are expect-
ing about the competition in the
MAC, but not even looking at foot- time they step out on the field. With
ball, look at the fall at our volley-
ball teams in our league and they
MOST WANTED
Darren Siefring:
The two-way of-
fensive and defen-
sive lineman has
started 25 games
and had 78 tack-
les last season.
good players the last two years and
they want to leave their own mark.”
Senior offensive and defensive
lineman Darren Siefring is the most
experienced Redskin with 25 starts.
Defensive lineman Mark Thobe, of-
fensive lineman Dave Bertke, line-
backer Todd Brophy and wide re-
ceiver/defensive back Corey Puthoff
also have started.
“Right now our strength has to be
our people up front, that’s where we
have the most experience,” Starkey
said. “We still have similar size and
strength up front to the teams we’ve
had in the past. Where we’re behind
is just experience.”
The Redskins will need more than
just a desire to leave their own mark,
though.
“Being hungry doesn’t help you
execute. Being hungry doesn’t help
you remember the plays. There is
that want, there is effort. It’s just
some of the little things we have to
keep improving on,” Starkey said.
You can comment on this story at
www.limaohio.com.
always have good son and work in that manner once
runs,” Delphos St. you get in the season.”
John’s football Marion Local coach Tim Goodwin
coach Todd Schulte played at Allen East under his leg-
said. “I think it’s be- endary father, coach Bill Goodwin.
come a thing where Since coming to Marion Local,
the kids expect to Goodwin has won three titles.
“The communities here are a
win in our league
across the board.” throwback,” Goodwin said.
In the end, when MAC teams “There’s old-fashioned values. They
reach the playoffs, they aren’t just are proud of their teams. Their
glad to be there. When they reach teams and sports are important and
Canton or Massillon for the state for the right reasons. They have a
title game, they EXPECT to win. tremendous work ethic.”
It’s that simple. Over the years, Schulte and Good-
Their brothers, cousins or uncles win have considered their coaching
have won titles. They want one, too. options. So far, both have remained
in the MAC.
“I think it becomes a way of life,”
“Sometimes you pinch yourself
because you don’t know how well
ing that they are going to win every
you have it here,” Goodwin said.
kids with that type of attitude, they You can comment on this story at
work in that manner in the offsea- www.limaohio.com.
• The Lima News file photo
St. Henry teammates raise their helmets in celebration after beating LCC
53-20 during the Division V Region 20 final at Wapakoneta.
ST. HENRY
Coach: Jeff Starkey
Years, record at school: 5th, 38-12
2006 record: 14-1
Returning letterwinners: 14
Promising newcomers: Brad Stahl (quarter-
back), Neal Schwieterman (tailback)
Worth noting: St. Henry has only five
starters back from last season’s Division V
state champion team. Starkey
Aug. 25 MARION PLEASANT Sept. 28 at Anna
Aug. 31 DELPHOS ST. JOHN'S Oct. 5 PARKWAY
Sept. 7 at Marion Local Oct. 12 at Minster
Sept. 14 NEW BREMEN Oct. 19 VERSAILLES
Sept. 21 at Coldwater Oct. 26 at Fort Recovery

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The Lima News M I DW E S T AT H L E T I C C O N F E R E N C E Thursday, Aug. 23, 2007 E19

Harlamert will pace Cavaliers Minster enters

season looking
By SCOTT BRINKMAN
sports@limanews.com
419-993-2085 COLDWATER
Coach: John Reed
COLDWATER — Expecta- Years,
tions always run high in Cold- record at
water. The Cavaliers return sev-
eral playmakers in hopes of get-
ting another taste of the state
championship they had in 2005.
Finding a quarterback is the
to fill holes school:
12th,
129-27
2006
record:
11-1, 9-0
key to the Cavaliers’ high-pow- Midwest By LANCE MIHM
ered offense that averaged 32.2 Athletic sports@limanews.com MINSTER
points. Filling the shoes is junior Confer- Reed 419-993-2085 Coach: Eric Belcher
Cory Klenke (6-foot-1, 181 ence Years,
pounds). In limited action last Returning MINSTER — Minster lost record at
season, Klenke completed 5 of 16 letterwinners: 20 letterwinners and returns
Promising newcomers: school:
passes for 74 yards. only eight for the 2007 sea- 2nd, 4-6
Although Klenke does not have Keith Wenning, Eric son, so Wildcats football fans
Lefeld, Brock Pleiman and 2006
a lot of experience, he will have a will have plenty of fresh new record:
Zach Siefring
lot of weapons at his disposal. Worth noting: Coldwater faces to become accustomed 4-6
First-team all-Midwest Athletic has made the playoffs 10 to this season. Returning
Conference running back Tony straight seasons. “We will need a lot of ju- letterwin-
Harlamert (6-0, 175) returns niors and seniors to step it
up,” second-year head coach
ners: 8 Belcher
after rushing for 749 yards and Aug. 24 KENTON Promising
racking up 705 yards receiving. Aug. 31 MARION LOCAL Eric Belcher said. “We are
Sept. 7 at New Bremen newcomer: Sophomore QB
Harlamert scored 15 times on of- young with only seven se- Austin Baumer is compet-
Sept. 14 at Anna
fense last year. Sept. 21 ST. HENRY
niors. How much of a weak- ing for the starting QB job
Other rushing weapons in- Sept. 28 at Parkway ness that is will depend on Worth noting: Despite
clude sophomore Trent Muh- Oct. 5 MINSTER some younger players step- only seven seniors, the
lenkamp (5-6, 145) who rushed DON SPECK • The Lima News Oct. 12 at Versailles ping up.” Wildcats have speed to
39 times for 251 yards and se- Oct. 19 FORT RECOVERY In some ways, inexperience
Coldwater’s Tony Harlamert (28) plows through Parkway de- Oct. 27 at Delphos St. John’s burn and depth at several
nior Tyler Kunk (5-10, 186) who fenders during last season’s game. has turned into a positive for positions.
averaged 4.2 yards on 31 carries. the Wildcats, creating plenty
Senior Ryan Geier (6-2, 186) will be critical to early season suc- (6-2, 232), who was first-team all- of battles for playing time at Aug. 24 FORT LORAMIE
returns after an injury-shortened cess. Seniors Matt Gruss (6-1, district. As a sophomore, Homan several positions. Aug. 31 VERSAILLES
season. He caught 28 passes for 224) Craig Hibner (6-1, 198), led the team with 137 tackles and A three-way battle at the Sept. 7 at Fort Recovery
468 yards and five touchdowns. Kurt Schlarman (6, 178), Kyle three sacks. quarterback position has Sept. 14 DELPHOS ST. JOHN’S
He also scored on a kickoff re- Ahrens (6, 186), Jeremy Jansen The secondary should be forced each to improve. Ju- Sept. 21 at Marion Local
Sept. 28 NEW BREMEN
turn. (5-8, 188) will provide experience. strong with Harlamert and MOST WANTED niors Sam Otting and Rob Oct. 5 at Coldwater
Junior wide receiver Zach The defense that allowed 13 Geier recording four intercep- Gruber, as well as sophomore Oct. 12 ST. HENRY
Kaup (6-1, 189) caught 16 passes points per game last season has tions apiece last season. Ryan Geier: Austin Baumer, are all fight- Oct. 19 at Parkway
for 223 yards last season. several key returning starters. The special teams return Caught 28 ing for the starting position. Oct. 26 at Anna
Senior tight end Mark Stein- On the line, Kunk was first- Mario de la Rosa who was a sec- passes for The team’s leading rusher
brunner (5-11, 185) averaged team all-district last season and ond team all-conference kicker. 468 yards from a year ago, senior Aaron
22.8 yards per reception to lead recorded 72 tackles and a team- He made both of his field goal at- before an Heitbrink, returns at run-
the team last season. high nine sacks. tempts and was 47 of 52 on PATs. injury last ning back. A group of under-
How quickly the offensive line The linebackers will be spear- You can comment on this story season. classmen, sophomores Ian
comes together for the Cavaliers headed by junior Adam Homan at www.limaohio.com. R anly and Ty Whitford, MOST WANTED
along with junior Jacob Aaron
Kaiser, are battling it out for Heitbrink:

Fort Recovery hopes more

the other spot. Juniors Brian Ran for 537
FORT RECOVERY Phlipot and Brian Mueller yards and
Coach: Brent Niekamp are also competing for time 2 TDs on
Years, at fullback. 128 carries

numbers means more wins

record at The Wildcats return both in 2006.
school: tight ends for their double
3rd, 2-18 tight end wishbone offense
2006 with Andrew Baumer and
record: 1-9 By LANCE MIHM Greg Kahlig, give the Indians Allen Heitbrink manning the Greves will handle the min-
Returning sports@limanews.com MOST WANTED both depth and returning expe- spots. utes at defensive end.
letterwin- 419-993-2085 rience on the passing routes. There is also competition Andrew Baumer and Aaron
Toby Metzger: for spots on the offensive line. Heitbrink will be the inside
ners: 21 Threw for Returning offensive tackles
Promising Niekamp FORT RECOVERY — Fort Chuck Shier and Luke Staugler Senior Tyler Greves, junior linebackers. Otting and Gru-
1,589 yards Jacob Floyd and sophomore ber will be the starters at out-
newcomer: Recovery opened the 2006 sea- anchor the offensive line. Junior
and seven Josh Watercutter all are side linebacker.
Tyler Jutte OL son with a 33-30 victory over Tyler Jutte is the new center
touchdowns vying for the starting center At a postion Belcher de-
Worth noting: QB Toby Met- Ansonia, leaving plenty of opti- and senior Alex Gehle has nailed
last season. position. Anthony Bergman, fined as one of the team’s
zger was second in the mism for the remainder of the down one of the offensive guard
MAC in passing yards. season. However, nine straight positions. Seniors Ben Hem- a starter last season, is bat- strongest points, defensive
setbacks led the Indians to their melgarn and Kevin Akemon are tling to keep a starting guard back, talent and depth could
fourth consecutive 1-9 season. quarterback Toby Metzger. battling for the other guard po- position while juniors Jake force Minster opponents to
Aug. 24 at Ansonia Phlipot and Matt Buenning avoid passing. Brian Phlipot,
That has no bearing on this Metzger provides plenty of ex- sition in training.
Aug. 31 at Parkway Junior Matt Braun will get the also compete. Brad Sekas has Brian Mueller, Keith Nerder-
year, though. perience at the position as a two-
Sept. 7 MINSTER “There is some excitement bulk of the carries at running nailed down a starting spot man and Jack Griner will see
year starter. He thrived under
Sept. 14 at Versailles generated,” coach Brent the one-back, passing-oriented back in the single-back offense, at one of the tackle positions the majority of the time in
Sept. 21 ANNA Niekamp said. “We are throwing system installed by Niekamp with sophomore Nathan Wen- while Brandon Conrad and the defensive backfield.
Sept. 28 DELPHOS ST. JOHN’S the ball more and it is getting last season. Metzger’s 1,589 del likely to see some action. Rob Puthoff battle for the Belcher said Allen Heit-
Oct. 5 at Marion Local more kids involved. We had 55 passing yards in 2006 were sec- “We have a wave of excite- other remaining spot. brink returns as the punter.
Oct. 12 NEW BREMEN kids go out this year (compared ond in the Midwest Athletic ment among the players and we Bergman, Sekas, Conrad, “Our attitudes are high
Oct. 19 at Coldwater to 43 last season), the most we Conference. need to keep that.” Niekamp Puthoff and Buenning are all right now,” said Belcher, who
Oct. 26 ST. HENRY have had in some time.” Seniors Ben Tobe, Mike Tro- said. “The kids have gotten used battling for starting jobs at guided the team to a 4-6
The Indians lost six letter- bridge and Bobby Rammel are to things going wrong. We need defensive tackle with all mark in his first year as head
men and return 21. Perhaps Metzger’s most likely targets. to learn how to stay focused.” likely to see playing time at coach.
the brightest beacon of hope Juniors Frank Thien and Wes You can comment on this story the position. Allen Heitbrink, You can comment on this
rides on the arm of junior Kahlig, as well as sophomore at www.limaohio.com. Jake Phlipot, Kaiser and story at www.limaohio.com.

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E20 Thursday, Aug. 23, 2007 M I DW E S T AT H L E T I C C O N F E R E N C E The Lima News

“We’re used to being 250 across the board and wanting to

power people. We don’t have those type of kids.”
— Todd Schulte
Delphos St. John’s coach

Blue Jays will bring

new look in ’07 By TOM USHER
tusher@limanews.com
419-993-2089 DELPHOS ST. JOHN’S
Coach: Todd Schulte
DELPHOS — You always knew what to expect Years, record at school:
with Delphos St. John’s football. Ninth year, 83-21
The Blue Jays would run the toss sweep and the 2006 record: 6-4
option until teams stopped it. Returning
And that rarely happened. letterwinners: 14
The power approach resulted in state champi- Promising newcomers:
onships in 1997, 1998, 1999 and 2005. WB Marcus Krendl; WB
But those days of power football are on hold. Jacob Leininger.
This year’s Worth noting: There will
Blue Jays, com- be more changes at St.
Schulte
ing off a 6-4 sea- MOST WANTED John’s then there has
son, will run a been over the last decade. The inexperi-
shotgun offense Tyler Kroeger: enced Blue Jays will be learning a shot-
with plenty of Made 114 gun offense and a new defense.
passing. The de- tackles
fense changes last season, Aug. 25 at Lima Central Catholic
as well, switch- including Aug. 31 at St. Henry
ing from the old four tackles Sept. 7 PARKWAY
4-3 to a 3-4. for loss and Sept. 14 at Minster
Also, expect one sack. Sept. 22 VERSAILLES
plenty of play- Sept. 28 at Fort Recovery
ers to go both Oct. 5 ANNA
ways, which was rare over the last 10 years. Oct. 12 MARION LOCAL
“There’s a lot of different changes,” St. John’s Oct. 19 at New Bremen
coach Todd Schulte said. “Our theory is we’re a lit- Oct. 27 COLDWATER
tle bit low in numbers at running back and we’re
going to be small up front. We’re used to being 250
across the board and wanting to power people.
“We don’t have those type of kids.” we only threw the ball twice.”
The Blue Jays don’t have any starters back The defense returns five starters.
on offense. The team’s strength is at linebacker, where it has
The quarterback job is a battle between sopho- veterans Tyler Kroeger, Reindel and Drew Hilvers.
mores Wes Ulm (6-foot, 180 pounds) and Jay Clark Kroeger led the team with 114 tackles last year,
(6-2, 170). The running game will be handled pri- while Reindel had close to 100.
marily by seniors Tony Reindel (6-1, 225) and Also back are cornerback Trent Kroeger and
Matt Brinkman (5-10, 180). Marcus Krendl, who will move from safety to cor-
The offensive line is also completely new. The nerback.
only wide receiver who saw the field last year is “We have a lot of question marks, but I’m excited
DON SPECK • The Lima News Michael Clement. about it,” Schulte said. “The big thing is how fast
Schulte said he still wants to run, but “I we catch on to our new offense and new defense.”
Delphos St. John’s linebacker Tyler Kroeger zeros in on Marion Local quarterback Chris Stucke want to be 45 percent pass and 55 percent
You can comment on this story at
during a game last season. run. That’s a big change. There were games www.limaohio.com.

Flyers face tough road in quest for repeat

By ZACH STIPE ning back Marc Otte, who rushed “He’s got some talent, but he
MARION LOCAL zstipe@limanews.com
419-993-2097
MOST WANTED for a school record 2,104 yards and doesn’t have the experience,”
Coach: Tim Goodwin 28 touchdowns. With Otte and Goodwin said.
Chris Stucke:
Years, record at school: much of the offensive line gone, the Where Schaefer does have expe-
8th, 85-24 MARIA STEIN — Marion Local Passed for 23
TDs and over traditionally ground-oriented Fly- rience is on defense. As a defensive
2006 record: 13-2 held Shadyside to 52 total yards en ers plan to rely more on Stucke and end, he led the team in sacks and
(Division VI state champi- route to capturing the 2006 Divi- 2,000 yards
in his two the passing game to form a more was named all-MAC. Homan and
ons) sion VI state championship, 17-0.
Returning letterwinners: 15 years as the balanced attack. senior Greg Koesters also earned
The Flyers’ reward? postseason honors at linebacker.
Promising newcomers: WRs quarterback. “It’s a luxury,” Goodwin said of
A move up to Division V, where “We feel confident in our line-
senior Alex Moeller, junior having an experienced quarter-
stiffer competition, including re-
Marcus Moeller, and junior back. “We’re counting on him to backers,” Goodwin said. “That’s
Jason Wolters
turning Division V champ and
Goodwin thinks last year’s 8-2 regular season make some good decisions and get the strength of the D.”
Worth noting: Marion Local Midwest Athletic Conference-
rival St. Henry, stands in their might not be good enough to qual- us in right plays and make the If Marion Local fills its holes at
is looking to repeat as state champions for ify for the postseason. right plays.” cornerback, wide receiver and on
the second time this millennium. The Flyers way of a repeat.
“This year is different,” coach “We probably have to go 9-1 to But don’t expect the Flyers to the offensive and defensive line,
won state titles in Division VI in 2000 and
2001. Last season, Marion Local won the the Tim Goodwin said. “Our goal is make the playoffs,” said Stucke, a throw 50 times a game out of a the team is confident it can repeat
D-VI title again, but face the challenge of always playoffs. This year we three-year starter. spread. Marion Local will still line as champions.
moving up to Division V this year. move up to Division V. Our mar- Last season, Marion Local lost to up in the I-formation where se- “It’ll be harder to win the state
Aug. 24 at Elida Sept. 28 at Versailles gin for errors as far as wins and Coldwater and St. Henry. The Fly- nior fullback Luke Homan will this year,” Homan said, “but it’ll
Aug. 31 at Coldwater Oct. 5 FORT RECOVERY losses is thin.” ers return only four starters on open holes for Ben Schaefer. With be more important because we’d
Sept. 7 ST. HENRY Oct. 12 at Del. St. John’s As usual, the Flyers are tested each side of the ball, but Goodwin Otte injured, Schaefer rushed for be the first Marion team to win it
Sept. 14 at Parkway Oct. 19 ANNA said many of the other MAC teams 100 yards on 22 carries in the in Division V.”
Sept. 21 MINSTER Oct. 26 NEW BREMEN
nearly every week in the MAC.
Having moved up to a tougher di- lost a lot of lettermen, too. state title game, but had only 139 You can comment on this story at
vision, quarterback Chris Stucke Marion Local’s biggest loss is run- yards before that. www.limaohio.com.

Cardinals starting over with Messick NEW BREMEN

Coach: Rob Messick
Years, record at school:
First, 0-0
By LANCE MIHM
sports@limanews.com MOST WANTED “Everyone is learning something they aren’t 2006 record: 2-8
Returning
419-993-2085 Bryce Bergman: used to. But we are close to ready and just letterwinners: 11
Threw for 974 Promising newcomer:
NEW BREMEN — New Bremen
showcases a new offense, a new de-
yards and 5 TDs need a little more polishing up.” Spencer Rohr, running
last season. back/defensive back
fense and a new coach. — Rob Messick Worth noting: The Cardi- Messick
Rob Messick takes over after New Bremen coach nals have dumped their
coaching the last four years at Pauld- long-time used I-offense for the op-
ing. He has dumped the I-formation tion-offense.
for an option offense that will feature son. He anchors a trio of running won’t be an issue with Jay Von-
more passing. The defense has the century mark with 974 passing backs with sophomores Andy Tim- denberger (6-1, 300) and Adam Aug. 24 COVINGTON
switched to a 4-4 alignment. yards last season and should easily merman (5-10, 150) and Spencer Bushman (6-3, 242). Aug. 31 at Anna
“Things are taking a little more surpass his yardage total. Rohr (5-11, 165). One of the team’s bright spots is Sept. 7 COLDWATER
time than normal,” Messick said. At wide receiver, senior Brad The biggest question mark is at a pair of seniors manning the inside Sept. 14 at St. Henry
“Everyone is learning something Wendel (6-3, 195) has nailed down fullback. Last year’s leading rusher, linebacker positions in Brandon Sept. 21 PARKWAY
they aren’t used to. But we are close a spot in the lineup while senior Brennon Speckman, is out for an Phipps (5-10, 185) and Adam Meyer Sept. 28 at Minster
to ready and just need a little more Derrick Bruggeman (5-9, 155) and undetermined amount of time with (6-0, 195). Seniors Keith Clune (5- Oct. 5 VERSAILLES
polishing up.” junior Jared Cox (5-9, 155) will see an injury. The coaching staff has 11, 200) and Adam Micheal (6-4, Oct. 12 at Fort Recovery
Senior quarterback Bryce plenty of playing time at the other discussed plenty of options but had 205) give the Cardinals some size at Oct. 19 DELPHOS ST. JOHN’S
Bergman (5-foot-11, 165 pounds) not reached a decision. the defensive tackle positions. Oct. 26 at Marion Local
spot.
could be the biggest beneficiary of Junior Corey Jutte (5-8, 160) led Senior Brian Ahrns (6-2, 175) You can comment on this story at
the new offense. He missed hitting the Cardinals in receiving last sea- anchors the line at center. Size www.limaohio.com.

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The Lima News
Parkway senior class
eyes winning season
By LANCE MIHM
sports@limanews.com
419-993-2085
ROCKFORD — Parkway
enjoyed its last winning sea-
son in 2001. The Panthers
hope to end their losing streak
this season with an experi-
enced crop of athletes.
“We have a lot of guys that
have been through it,” sec-
ond-year coach Ed Kuhn said.
“They are hungry to turn it
around. Hopefully, our play
will do the talking for us.”
The Panthers were 2-8 last
season. Among the 14 return-
ing letterwinners on the ros-
ter are starters at all the skill
positions.
Jordan Thompson returns
at quarterback to guide the
senior-laden offense. He was
the team’s leading passer and
rusher, averaging for 151 total
yards per game.
Another pair of seniors,
Jensen Painter and Marcus
Heitkamp, will get the major-
ity of the carries at running
back, with junior Josh Fisher
also seeing some playing time.
Ethan Hayes and Aaron Os-
borne give the Panthers a se-
nior sweep at the skill posi-
tions. Senior Jeremy Heiser
will also see time at split end.
Opening holes for that crew
will be a group of underclass-
men on the offensive line.
Sophomore Jordan Henkle
will be at center and sopho-
mores Cole Frank and An-
drew Peal will be the guards.
Junior Ryan Fisher has nailed
Football is a serious disease
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MOST WANTED PARKWAY
Jordan Coach: Ed Kuhn
Thompson: Years,
Led the MAC record at
in tackles school:
last season 2nd, 2-8
with 155. 2006
record:
2-8
Returning
letterwin-
down one tackle spot, but an
ners:14 Kuhn
injury to the other tackle, Joel
Promising
Henkle, has left that spot va- newcom-
cant and questionable as the
ers: Jordan Henkle, Cole
season approaches. Frank, and
Injuries like that will doom
Andrew Peal. Sophomores
a team like this with only 40 on the offensive line.
players on the roster.
Worth noting: QB/LB Jor-
“We are going to have to dan Thompson not only
work with our numbers to
averaged nearly 150 total
create depth and then main- yards per game, but also
tain that depth,” Kuhn said.
led the MAC in tackles
Senior defensive tackles defensively.
Don Garwood and Steve Hen-
Aug. 24 CRESTVIEW
kle anchor the defense in the
Aug. 31 FORT RECOVERY
middle along with junior nose
Sept. 7 at Delphos St. John’s
tackle Joe Dellinger. Juniors Sept. 14 MARION LOCAL
Reese Boroff and Drew Lug- Sept. 21 at New Bremen
inbill will man the defensive Sept. 28 COLDWATER
end position with Austin Art Oct. 5 at St. Henry
Oct. 12 at Anna
also seeing playing time.
Oct. 19 MINSTER
Thompson was the Midwest Oct. 26 at Versailles
Athletic Conference defensive
player of the year last year
after registering 155 tackles.
Painter and Hayes share the
linebacker duties with him in obvious advantage, Kuhn be-
the 50 defense. Senior Mike lieves the team is ready to im-
Baldauf, along with prove on its 2-8 mark.
DON SPECK • The Lima News
Heitkamp, Fisher and Os- You can comment on this story
borne, will lead the defensive at www.limaohio.com. Parkway’s Jordan Thompson (5) fights through Coldwater defenders during last season’s game.
backfield.
With senior leadership an
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E22 Thursday, Aug. 23, 2007 2007 PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW The Lima News

MIDWEST ATHLETIC CONFERENCE BLANCHARD VALLEY CONFERENCE

Versailles will depend on veterans Hornets must

By MIKE MILLER and count heavily on senior fullback Ethan
VERSAILLES

overcome youth
sports@limanews.com Oliver (6-foot-2, 215 pounds). Oliver will be
Coach: Jason Schondelmyer 419-993-2085 complemented by senior running backs
Years, record at Shawn Winner (6-0, 170) and junior Jon
school: 2nd, 5-5 VERSAILLES — The goals remain lofty Murphy (5-9, 150).
2006 record: for second-year head coach Jason Schon- The quarterback is junior Jon Richard
5-4, 4-5 MAC delmyer and his Versailles football team. (6-3, 185).
Returning letter- “Our No. 1 goal is to win By SCOTT BRINKMAN
Key offensive linemen
winners: 12 the Midwest Athletic Con- include three seniors,
sports@limanews.com
419-993-2085
CORY-RAWSON
Worth noting: Coach: Jason Diller
After allowing six
ference championship,” MOST WANTED guard Chris Elsas (6-0,
Years,
teams to score Schondelmyer said. “That Ethan Oliver: 195) and tackles Zac RAWSON — The graduation
will get us into the playoffs.” record at
21 points or The two-way star is one Rindler (5-11, 160) and of 12 seniors and only four se- school:
more, defense Schondelmyer The Tigers will count heav- of 12 returning letterwin- Ryan Borchers (6-0, 170). niors on this season’s roster 4th, 24-19
is a focal point ily on 12 returning letter- ners to this year’s team. “We need to finish drives make for a young group at 2006
for the Tigers this season. winners to provide the lead- and punch the ball in when Cory-Rawson. The Hornets record: 5-5,
ership needed to be success- we get into the red zone,” finished fourth in the Blan- 5-4 Blan-
Aug. 24 at Dayton Oakwood ful in the MAC. Schondelmyer said. chard Valley
Aug. 31 at Minster chard Valley Conference last
Schondelmyer hopes that a tough offsea- Defensively, the Tigers will run the 5-2 set season, but the youth move- Conference
Sept. 7 ANNA son work-out program and familiarity be- and count heavily on Oliver, senior tackle Returning
Sept. 14 at Fort Recovery ment certainly doesn’t help.
tween players and coaches will pay dividends Mike Treon (6-5, 265), senior end Bryant “We are having to coach a lot
letterwin- Diller
Sept. 22 at Delphos St. John’s this year. Ahrens (6-4, 195) and linebacker Aaron York ners: 7
Oct. 28 MARION LOCAL of things we took for granted Promising newcomers: John
“That has led to increased physical strength (6-2, 175). with the older guys,” coach
Oct. 5 at New Bremen Anderson, Dakota Bowman,
and quickness on both sides of the ball,” “On defense, we have to tackle a lot better,” Jason Diller said. “They are
Oct. 12 COLDWATER Ben Niese and Logan Niese
Oct. 19 at St. Henry Schondelmyer said. “We know the kids better Schondelmyer said. “Last year we missed too trying to impress the coaches Worth noting: The Hornets
Oct. 26 PARKWAY and where they belong and they know us bet- many tackles that led to big plays against us.” and there is a lot of competition have had back to back .500
ter and what our philosophy is.” You can comment on this story at for positions and that is good. seasons and have not made
Versailles will operate out of the option www.limaohio.com. We have a lot of good, young the playoffs since 2003.
skilled players.” Aug. 24 at Bluffton
Junior Luke Bowser will Aug. 31 at Liberty-Benton

Anna hopes to contend in MAC ANNA

By SCOTT BRINKMAN
sports@limanews.com
419-993-2085
ANNA — With their first
season in the Midwest Ath-
letic Conference behind them,
Anna will look to make im-
provements and get back into
the familiar position of the
playoffs.
After missing the postsea-
son for the first time in school
history, Anna’s climb back will
be a difficult challenge. Peren-
nial conference powers Cold-
water, Delphos St. John’s,
Marion Local, St. Henry and
Versailles along with non-
league foe Sidney Lehman
make for a tough path.
Averaging 25.8 points per
ORTHOPAEDIC INSTITUTE OF OHIO
Coach: Bryan Rioch
Years,
quarterback the offense.
Bowser started the last two
games last season at quarter-
Sept. 7
Sept. 14
Sept. 21
Sept. 28
LEIPSIC
at Arlington
VAN BUREN
at Vanlue
record at back, both wins. Oct. 5 HARDIN NORTHERN
also earned first-team all- Sophomores John Anderson
MOST WANTED school: Oct. 12 MCCOMB
MAC honors. 7th, 57-22 and Dakota Bowman will be two
Oct. 19 at Pandora-Gilboa
Cory Sniffen: The offensive and defensive 2006 key weapons for Bowser. Oct. 26 ARCADIA
Has rushed 241 times for lines should be a strong point. record: “For a lot of kids without ex-
1,868 yards and 15 TDs Seniors David Stephen (6-3, 6-4, 5-4
perience, you don’t know what
during his three years. 205), Matt Elsass (6, 240), Midwest they’re going to do on Friday
Austin Featheringham (5-10, Athletic
Confer- night,” Diller said. “We are going
220) and Zach Sherman (5-10, to make mistakes week in and MOST WANTED
game last season, the Rockets 210) provide leadership. ence Rioch
Returning week out, but by the end of the Luke Bowser:
have six starters back on of- Several juniors including year we are going to be a pretty
Matt Smith (6-2, 250), Justin letterwinners: 12 The junior quarterback
fense. Senior running back Worth noting: The Rock- sound, fast team if we are all started the last two games
Cory Sniffen (6-foot, 165 Carr (6-4, 215), Markus Schem-
ets have made the play- going in the same direction.” last season, both wins.
pounds) rushed 241 times for mel (6-1, 210) and Zach Christ- offs in six of the seven The offensive line looks solid
1,868 yards and 15 touch- man (6-3, 210) will contribute. years they have fielded a
with 5-foot-11, 185-pound junior
downs during his three years. The defense is spearheaded varsity football team. John Erford at center and junior On the defensive line, “we
Kreg Elsass (6-3, 195) hopes by senior Joel Naseman (6-0,
Aug. 24 at Sidney Lehman Tony Rader (5-11, 185) at tackle. have eight guys looking for four
to improve upon his career 165). In 2006, Naseman Aug. 31 NEW BREMEN The guards will be sophomore positions,” Diller said.
numbers of 29 receptions for recorded 70 tackles and three Sept. 7 at Versailles
twins Ben and Logan Niese. Anderson and Ethan Welch
679 yards and seven touch- interceptions. Sniffen was Sept. 14 COLDWATER
Yet, a lot of positions remain will roam the secondary with Er-
downs. Last season Elsass av- named first-team all MAC as Sept. 21 at Fort Recovery
Sept. 28 ST. HENRY open for competition on the ford at outside linebacker.
eraged 21 yards per catch and he picked off five passes and Hornets’ 4-4 defense. “Everything else is up for
Oct. 5 at Delphos St. John’s
scored four touchdowns. He will need to duplicate that ef- Oct. 12 PARKWAY “Inside linebackers Blaine grabs,” Diller said. “We have a lot
fort for the Rockets. Oct. 19 at Marion Local Beilharz and Mitch Cramer are of work to do on defense.”
You can comment on this story Oct. 26 MINSTER rocks of the group,” Diller said You can comment on this story
at www.limaohio.com.
of two of his seniors. at www.limaohio.com.

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The Lima News B L A N C H A R D VA L L E Y C O N F E R E N C E Thursday, Aug. 23, 2007 E23

Leipsic boasts plenty

of experience in ’07
By JIM LANGHAM
sports@limanews.com LEIPSIC
419-993-2085 Coach: Tory Strock
Years: 7th
LEIPSIC — Leipsic head 2006
coach Tory Strock is expect- record:
ing a different scene for local 1-9,
fans. The Vikings return sev- 1-8 BVC
Returning
eral starters and 14 letterwin- lettermen:
ners from last year’s team, ex- 14
perience that Strock believes Promising
will make a big difference in newcom-
the team’s success. ers: Jason Strock
“I like the attitude of this Butler,
year’s team, a really important Jacob Stall, Phil Niese,
factor as we recover from last Derek Mangas, Jay Maag
year’s disappointing season,” Worth noting: The
Vikings are hoping a
Strock said. “I think that the strong contingent of re-
KELLI CARDINAL • The Lima News
fellows are going to discover tuners and promising
that hanging in there pays off.” newcomers translate into
Hardin Northern’s Nathan Bame runs up the center of the field during a game last season against Liberty Benton. Last season’s squad finished a turn-around from last
1-9 overall and 1-8 in the Blan- year’s 1-9 season.

Polar Bears hope to continue run chard Valley Conference. Leip-

sic’s only win in 2006 was a 23-
0 whitewashing of McComb in
week 10.
Returning skill players in-
Aug. 24
Aug. 31
Sept.7
Sept. 14
Sept. 21
at Patrick Henry
ARCADIA
at Cory-Rawson
at Van Buren
HARDIN NORTHERN
By JEREMY SCHNEIDER going to happen from week to week.” Sept. 28 at Pandora-Gilboa
clude quarterbacks Arty
jschneider@limanews.com There are a handful of players vying for HARDIN NORTHERN Lomeli and Nathan Schroeder Oct. 5 LIBERTY-BENTON
419-993-2088 the opportunity to step into the backfield Coach: Pete Brunow Oct. 12 ARLINGTON
next to Bame. Junior Chad Motter will see Years, record at and receivers Jordan Selhorst Oct. 19 VANLUE
DOLA — Replacing a 1,000-yard rusher is time spelling Bame at tailback while sopho- school: 23rd, 210-51 and Mike Benton. Oct. 26 at McComb
usually a tough task. Except when a team has more Nathan Ruhlen and junior Troy 2006 record: The Vikings sport some po-
another one coming back. Summa, a transfer from Upper Scioto Val- 10-2, 8-1 BVC tential in newcomer Jason
That’s the situation at Hardin Northern, ley, handle the fullback duties. Returning Butler (6-foot-1, 152 pounds),
where the Polar Bears re- Work over the summer letterwinners: 10 who will start at strong safety MOST WANTED
turn Nathan Bame and Promising newcom- and play some running back.
revolved around improv- ers: Troy Summa, Alec Dustin
lose Travis Bolen. The 5- MOST WANTED ing the offensive line. The Other newcomers include ju-
Stewart-Evans, nior cornerback Jacob Stall (6- Schroeder:
foot-11, 170-pound Bame Nathan Bame: Bears got beat by Liberty- Nathan Ruhlen Makes up
rushed for 1,536 yards and Benton and Mechanics- Worth noting: The 2, 170), junior tight end Phil
Carried the Brunow part of the
27 touchdowns on 185 car- burg in 2006, two teams Polar Bears return Niese (6-3, 177), freshman
ball 185 times solid nucleus
ries. Bolen departs after a that Brunow called bigger 1,536-yard rusher halfback Derek Mangas (5-9,
for 1,536 on the line for
1,004-yard effort. and stronger. Nathan Bame from last year. Joining 150) and sophomore receiver
yards and 27 the Vikings.
“We are going to try to “We thought that our Bame in the backfield could be junior Jay Maag (5-9, 141).
touchdowns
use Nathan a little bit more offensive and defensive fullback Troy Summa, who also will Key losses include fullback
last season. see time at linebacker.
out of different forma- lines just weren’t physi- and linebacker Todd Mangas,
tions,” Hardin Northern cal enough last year,” Aug. 24 ADA who was second team all-con- ularly on the line. A solid nu-
coach Pete Brunow said. Brunow said. “We’re Aug. 31 at Vanlue ference, tackle and linebacker cleus on the line includes
The bigger story might be veteran coach putting big kids up there along the line. Sept. 7 at McComb Tommy Santos and wide re- Dustin Schroeder, Jay Meyers,
Sept. 14 ARCADIA Louis Torres, Paul Kreinbrink
Brunow trying something new on offense. They’re decently athletic and strong.” Sept. 21 at Leipsic ceiver and center Ryan
No, the Bears (10-2, 8-1 Blanchard Valley Summa also figures heavily into the de- Sept. 28 VAN BUREN Schroeder. and Luke Haselman.
Conference in 2006) aren’t going to make fensive plan at linebacker. The defense re- Oct. 5 at Cory-Rawson “After last season we still League-wise, Strock looks
like neighbor Ada and air out the ball. turns six starters, including Chase Motter, Oct. 12 PANDORA-GILBOA have several concerns,” Strock for Hardin Northern and Lib-
Brunow is installing an I-formation with Kyle Albert, T.J. Ratliff and Bame. Com- Oct. 19 at Liberty-Benton said. “How will we respond erty-Benton to set the pace,
toss sweeps that will utilize Bame’s vision petition along the line should give the Oct. 26 ARLINGTON with several other teams at
when adversity hits? That is a
and cutback ability. Bears a solid front-four. big question. Our offensive their heels.
But don’t be surprised never to see it. “We have quite a bit of competition going production must improve and “This will be an extremely
“I’m kind of excited seeing how that de- on up there,” Brunow said. “Especially early, we must be more effective balanced BVC,” Strock said.
velops,” Brunow said. “Like I said, it’s going to be important to have fresh legs area’s leading returning punter with a 38.4 when we throw the football.” “There’s going to be a log jam
though, next Monday it might be scrapped up there on the front wall.” yards average on 14 punts. Like any other team with in the upper half.”
and back to the T. You never know. It’s a Special teams are a big part of having a suc- You can comment on this story at hope of winning, the Vikings You can comment on this
new season and you never know what’s cessful ball-control offense. Albert is the www.limaohio.com. have to avoid injuries, partic- story at www.limaohio.com.

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E24 Thursday, Aug. 23, 2007 2007 PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW The Lima News

BLANCHARD VALLEY CONFERENCE NORTHWEST CENTRAL CONFERENCE

Rockets seek winning record Success breeds success

for Waynesfield Tigers
By MIKE MILLER
sports@limanews.com
419-993-2085 By LARRY GRAHAM
lgraham@limanews.com WAYNESFIELD
PANDORA — Led by second 419-993-2085 Coach: Gary Spencer
year coach B.J. Queen, Pandora- Years,
Gilboa hopes to improve on its WAYNESFIELD — Few record at
5-5 record. The Rockets return teams take ownership the way school:
12 letterwinners with eight Waynesfield does. 4th, 16-5
starters on offense and nine on The Tigers aren’t accus- 2006
defense. tomed to losing and it’s kind of record: 7-3,
“We need to be stronger phys- contagious. 5-1 NWCC
“The big thing the kids talk Returning
ically and the kids did a good letterwin-
job in the weight room,” Queen about in the locker room is they
could be the winningest class in ners: 13
said. “We should have pretty Promising Spencer
good team speed but we’re the history of Waynesfield,” Way-
nesfield coach Gary Spencer said. newcom-
smaller in size and stature. Only ers: Ned
three kids weigh over 225 “This senior class has only lost Burden, Christian Lament,
one game at home, and that was Matt Hines, Cory Smith
pounds.” their freshman year.
Key players for P-G will in- Worth noting: The senior
“There are some streaks that class has only lost one
clude junior quarterback Sam are alive here and they hold them
Maag, senior wide receiver Mike home game.
close to their hearts.”
Howell and sophomores Nate Waynesfield has only lost five Aug. 24 at Vanlue
Lee at running back and Josh Aug. 31 WAYNE TRACE
games in the last two years. The Sept. 7 N. LEWISBURG TRIAD
Lee at tight end. senior class is 22-9. Sept. 14 at Perry
On offense, the Rockets will They were co-champions for Sept. 21 RIVERSIDE
operate out of the pro-option the Northwest Central Confer- Sept. 28 at Yellow Springs
and will be led by Maag, in his ence in 2006 and league champi- Oct. 5 UPPER SCIOTO VALLEY
first season as the starter at ons in 2005. Oct. 12 at Marion Catholic
quarterback. The experienced And after so many successful Oct. 19 RIDGEMONT
seasons, nobody wants to be part Oct. 26 at Fairbanks
offensive line needs to provide
protection for Maag, giving him of an unsuccessful Tigers team.
time to develop. “I think the kids tend to put a
New starter Dakota Sudlow, a lot of pressure on themselves as
5-foot-10, 210-pound junior, DEAN BROWN • The Lima News far as high expectations,” MOST WANTED
joins four returning starters on Spencer said. “They have some Jacob
Pandora-Gilboa’s Mike Howell makes a tackle during the 2006 opener against Columbus Grove pressure there, but I think they’ll
the offensive line. They include at Clymer Stadium. Sandusky:
junior Tyler Swary (6-1, 220), come through.” The heart
senior Matt Siefker (6-1, 230), Losing the NWCC offensive behind a
junior Steve LaBillois (5-10, MOST WANTED player of the year, Cody defense that
PANDORA-GILBOA Sackinger, is a huge blow for the
215) and senior Derrick Diller Coach: BJ Queen has ranked
(5-10, 265). Sam Maag: Tigers. However, they have sev- among the top
Years, record at school: 2nd, 5-5 eral speedy options at running
Defensively, P-G will line up in The junior 2006 record: 5-5, 4-5 BVC of the NWCC.
QB will run back in Jami Horn and Blake
the 5-3 with the entire line re- Returning letterwinners: 12 Knowlton.
turning from last season. the Rockets Promising newcomers: Kyle Thain, Dakota linebackers, but has the bulk of
pro-option That’s not where Spencer’s
Those expected to provide de- Sudlow, Tejay Boes, Derrick Morrison, Sam concerns are, though. its defense in tact. Jacob San-
fensive stability and leadership attack. Spaullinger, Kyle Hall, Thomas Hockstetler dusky was a beast at defensive
“I don’t care how many
include junior Nathan Hovest Worth noting: The Rockets only have six Queen weapons you have offensively, back and remains one of the best
(6-2, 215), along with Diller and seniors and six juniors. But they have that’ll eventually catch up with in the conference.
Swary. Siefker and 6-4, 190- eight starters back on offense and nine on defense. you on an off night,” Spencer “He’s a good hard hitter from
pound sophomore Josh Lee will said. “Two years ago, we had one the outside and he closes well,”
lead the linebackers. The Rockets open their sea- Aug. 24 COLUMBUS GROVE Sept. 28 LEIPSIC Spencer said. “He had like nine
Aug. 31 at Arlington Oct. 5 at Van Buren of the top offenses in the area, but
“We hope to improve and son Friday when they play it still comes down to defense.” interceptions and he’s the leader
Sept. 7 VANLUE Oct. 12 at Hardin Northern
show that we can play with the Columbus Grove. Sept. 14 at McComb Oct. 19 CORY-RAWSON And the Tigers are as strong as of our defense.”
physical teams in the Blanchard You can comment on this story Sept. 21 at Arcadia Oct. 26 LIBERTY-BENTON ever. You can comment on this story
Valley Conference,” Queen said. at www.limaohio.com. Waynesfield lost its two inside at www.limaohio.com.

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The Lima News NORTHWEST CENTRAL CONFERENCE Thursday, Aug. 23, 2007 E25

Perry hungry for more

Perry’s
Brandon
Stoodt
drags a
Fairbanks

wins after surprise ’06 defender

during last
season’s
game at
Perry High
By ZACH STIPE School.
zstipe@limanews.com
419-993-2097 PERRY • The Lima
Coach: Andy Etzkorn News file
Years, record at school: photo
PERRY TOWNSHIP — Don’t expect a falloff First, 0-0
from Perry’s 6-4 season and first winning campaign (11-29 career)
in 17 years. With the return of nine lettermen and 2006 record: 6-4
the addition of new head coach Andy Etzkorn, ex- Returning letterwinners: 9
pectations have risen. Promising newcomers:
“We plan on Korey Lane, junior, FB/DE;
being better Jeremiah Schuller, junior,
than last MOST WANTED OL/LB; Shawn Deal,
year,” senior sophomore, OL/LB Etzkorn
Tyler Hunt: Worth noting: While it had
quarterback Four-year been 17 years since Perry finished with a
Brandon starter at winning record before last season’s 6-4
Stoodt said. center will campaign, it has been 22 years (1985)
“We’re going again anchor since the Commodores had back-to-back
to try to be 8- Perry’s of- winning seasons. With nine returning let-
2, 9-1, win the fensive line. terwinners and most of their top skill po-
(Northwest sition players back, Perry should shatter
Central Con- another dubious streak in 2007.
ference), and
do something that’s never happened in Perry Aug. 24 NORTH UNION (RICHWOOD)
history, go to the playoffs.” Aug. 31 RIVERDALE (MT. BLANCHARD)
Sept. 7 at Upper Scioto Valley
Perry has only five seniors on the team, but all Sept. 14 WAYNESFIELD
have seen significant playing time. Center Tyler Sept. 21 at Fairbanks
Hunt is a four-year starter on the offensive line, Sept. 28 MARION CATHOLIC
while Benny McNeal and Jerome McNeal were the Oct. 5 at Ridgemont
leading rushers last year. Stoodt is a three-year Oct. 12 at Yellow Springs
starter and Jordan Silone returns on both lines. Oct. 19 UPPER SCIOTO VALLEY
Oct. 26 at Riverside
The senior class endured back-to-back 1-9 sea-
sons before last year’s breakthrough.
“Last year being 6-4 they got a little taste of
wining,” Etzkorn said. “They’re hungry to take
the next step and go further.” the McNeals and Hunt are linebackers.
On offense, the Commodores use an I-forma- Etzkorn thinks Perry can compete with Way-
tion with power and option sets. Jerome Mc- nesfield, Fairbanks and Riverside for the NWCC
Neal will get the bulk of the carries. Last season title if the team can consistently dominate the line. HOURS: 2100-2200 N. CABLE RD. • LIMA, OH 45805
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E26 Thursday, Aug. 23, 2007 NORTHWEST CENTRAL CONFERENCE The Lima News

LOCAL
•News • Sports • Weather
@ USV hopes spread
w w w. l i m a o h i o . c o m
offense is the answer
By LARRY GRAHAM
lgraham@limanews.com
419-993-2085
M C GUFFEY — Very few
qualities remain from last
year’s Upper Scioto Valley foot-
ball team.
The Rams have a new coach,
a new quarterback, a new of-
fense, and several new play-
ers filling key roles in skills
positions.
“These guys are in a great
new position,” USV first-year
coach Ryan Rose said. “I’m ex-
pecting us to be very good.”
Instead of the three-back set,
the Rams have switched to a
spread offense. At times, don’t
be surprised to see five wide re-
ceivers on the field.
Not only is the spread diffi-
cult to cover, but Rose is very
confident about the athletes
he’ll have running it.
“That’s why we made that
change,” Rose said. “We have
several good receivers and a
very young quarterback that’s
going to be very good.
“So, we have the talent.”
Several players are in new
positions for USV. Senior Nic
Dyer was a tight end last year,
but the Rams are counting on
him to lead their receiving
corps at split end.
“Nic, not only does he have
great hands, but he’s very
tall,” Rose said of the 6-foot-5,
MOST WANTED UPPER SCIOTO
Chandler Smith: VALLEY
A 6-1, 195-pound Coach: Ryan Rose
running back who Years, record at school:
spent considerable First, 0-0
time at guard last year. 2006 record: 4-6
Returning letterwinners: 6
Promising newcomers:
195-pound receiver. “We’re Senior Luke Oglesbee;
hoping to get him in a lot of 1- Junior Jacob Nelson.
on-1 coverage and just throw Worth noting: The Rams
him the ball. have abandoned the bruis-
“And if he gets double-teamed, ing running game of the 3-
we have four or five other re- back set and have shifted
ceivers that can take it.” to a spread offense.
The Rams are also counting Aug. 24 at Danbury (Lakeside)
on Chandler Smith to provide a Aug. 31 HICKSVILLE
punishing ground game at run- Sept. 7 PERRY
ning back. At 6-1, 195 pounds, Sept. 14 RIDGEMONT
he spent most of last year at Sept. 21 at Marion Catholic
Sept. 28 FAIRBANKS
guard before making the tran- Oct. 5 at Waynesfield
sition to running back. Oct. 12 RIVERSIDE
“He’s going to be a power- Oct. 19 at Perry
runner when we decide to hand Oct. 26 YELLOW SPRINGS
the ball off and he’s going to go
out and catch passes,” Rose
said. “He’s probably our quick-
est kid on the team.” spotlight as the top signal caller.
A concern for USV is the He’s got the size at 6-1, but it
quarterback position. Most of remains to be seen how capable
the plays are called at the line he’ll be as a sophomore starter
of scrimmage, similar to the in a complex system.
k-gun offense utilized by the “He’s a young quarterback
Buffalo Bills. The quarterback and he needs to get comfort-
is counted on to read the de- able and he’s not quite there
fense and adjust at the line, yet,” Rose said. “That’s some-
accordingly. thing that’s going to take time.”
A backup last year, sopho- You can comment on this story
more Rhys Rose steps into the at www.limaohio.com.

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2007 St. Marys

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The Lima News
NORTHWEST CENTRAL CONFERENCE
Ridgemont faces uphill battle
By JIM LANGHAM
sports@limanews.com
419-993-2085
RIDGEWAY — With only
five players returning from
Ridgemont’s 2-8 squad,
Golden Gophers coach Ray-
mond Kennedy faces an uphill
battle.
Fortunately for Kennedy,
those five players form a
strong nucleus on which to
build. Plus, there are several
first-time juniors and seniors
who turned up for the team.
Mix all that in a pot with a
dash of quarterback Devin
Brown, a transfer from Ben-
jamin Logan, and Kennedy is
fairly optimistic about this
year’s squad.
“Devin Brown will be a solid
addition at quarterback,”
Kennedy said. “We actually
have four or five people who
can run the ball well.”
Kennedy is depending on
leadership from Aaron Jolliff
at fullback and linebacker,
Tyler Webb at running back
and linebacker, Holden Manns
at running back and defensive
back and lineman Bo Ledley.
“We’re going to run the wish-
bone,” Kennedy said. “We’ve
got a lot of depth in the back-
field.”
Justin Manns saw a lot of ac-
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2007 PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW Thursday, Aug. 23, 2007 E27
Lakers look to turn the corner
By SCOTT BRINKMAN
sports@limanews.com
419-993-2085
MOST WANTED
Tyler Maddox:
INDIAN LAKE
Coach: David Coburn
Years,
MOST WANTED Returns as the
RIDGEMONT LEWISTOWN —Indian Lake Lakers’ QB record at
Tyler Webb: Coach: Raymond Kennedy has not won more than five after an injury- school:
The two-way player Years: First, 0-0 games since 1999. Veteran coach shortened 11th, 50-50
2006 record: 2-8 David Coburn is confident that 2006
contributes at both junior year.
running back and Returning lettermen: this will be the season that the record: 4-6,
Aaron Jolliff, Tyler Webb, Lakers turn the corner and head 1-4 Central
linebacker. Buckeye
Holden Manns, Bo Ledley, in the right direction.
Justin Manns has seven players on both offense Conference
Fourteen seniors and a large Returning
Promising newcomers:
Devin Brown, Kyle Stahler, freshman class of 25 players give and defense. Tackles Russell letterwin-
tion on the offensive line. Coburn
Bryan Bodine the Lakers nearly 60 players on Krouse (6-5, 220), Stephen Pusey ners: 12
Kennedy is also encouraged by
Worth noting: It’s a steep the roster and their best chance (6-3, 245) and Chris Brooks (5-10, Promising
first-time senior player Kyle
learning curve for the Go- at success in several seasons. 280) along with guards Trevor newcomer: Jared Troyer
Stahler, who will play end on
phers, who have only 10 “Now or never,” Coburn said of Ferryman (6-0, 225), Casey Tay- Worth noting: The Lakers
both offense and defense. are looking for their first
players with prior high his expectations. “We are hoping lor (5-11, 215) and Joey Boehler
“The challenge is going to be school experience. winning season since 1999.
teaching the offensive line to that experience, exercise and (5-11, 185) provide a solid nu-
strength allow us to have a suc- cleus. Matt Marshall (6-0, 220)
do its job,” Kennedy said. “For- Aug. 24 SPENCERVILLE
Aug. 24 at Dayton Christian cessful season.” and D.J. Postle (5-9, 185) will Aug. 31 JONATHAN ALDER
tunately, so far, the new players Aug. 31 at Cin. Country Day
have caught on quite well. In The offense features experi- compete at center. Sept. 7 at Lehman Catholic
Sept. 7 RIVERDALE
ence at the skilled positions. Se- On the other side of the ball, Sept. 14 TIPPECANOE
fact, they’re playing above Sept. 14 at Upper Scioto Valley Sept. 21 at Bellefontaine
what I expected at this point. Sept. 21 YELLOW SPRINGS nior Tyler Maddox (6-foot-2, 170 the Lakers run a 5-2 defense an-
pounds) played quarterback as a chored by Marshall. Sept. 28 at Greenon
All of that is going to be a plus Sept. 28 at Riverside
Oct. 5 PERRY freshman and sophomore and re- “Defensively, we have to make
Oct. 5 URBANA
for us.” Oct. 12 at Graham Local
Oct. 12 FAIRBANKS turns under center after playing sure we do not give up the big Oct. 19 at Benjamin Logan
One thing Kennedy likes is Oct. 19 at Waynesfield
that 24 new players have come split end during an injury-short- play,” Coburn said. “We can put Oct. 26 NORTHWESTERN
Oct. 26 MARION CATHOLIC
ened junior year. ourselves in position to win some
out to join the five returning
veterans. However, with only Maddox’s main targets are games.”
Jared Troyer (6-3, 170), Chris The defensive ends are Re-
29 players, many of the Golden of the offensive skill players. Zach
Gophers will be forced to play Hoge (5-11, 175) and tight end ichert and John Embry (5-8,
175). The tackle rotation features King (6-0, 160), Kevin Christman
both ways. Isaac Reichert (6-6, 205). Behind
catch on fast.” Ferryman, Boehler, Pusey and (5-10, 160) and Dylon Sullivan
“We’re going to have to be Maddox is fullback Thomas Tay-
In the Northwest Central Justin Rogers (5-11, 195). The (5-11, 185) join Maddox and Har-
conditioned and we’re going to lor (6-1, 235) and tailback Nate
Conference, Kennedy likes nose guards are Brian Shoffner mon in this group.
have to stay healthy,” Kennedy Harmon (5-11, 160).
Riverside, and especially Way- “We want to have a winning
said. “So far, we’re doing real The offense will mostly feature (5-5, 160) and Derek Beuschlein
nesfield as leading contenders. season,” Coburn said. “We are
good. The players have a great an I-formation, but the Lakers (6-0, 255).
Beyond that, he rates it as a shooting for a league champi-
attitude and they’re willing to will also go with a shotgun, one- Joining Marshall on the line-
“toss-up.” onship and playoffs.”
work hard. With that kind of a back set as well. backing corps are Taylor and
You can comment on this story
work ethic, they’re going to Competition for the offensive Arron Witt (5-8, 160). You can comment on this story
at www.limaohio.com. line means depth for a group that The secondary features many at www.limaohio.com.
2006 Wapakoneta
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E28 Thursday, Aug. 23, 2007 2007 PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW The Lima News

Photos by
The Lima News
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Jeff Braun
2007 Football Schedule

Sept. 1 vs. Youngstown St. Sept. 8 vs Akron Sept. 15 at Washington Sept. 22 vs. Northwestern Sept. 29 at Minnesota Oct. 6 at Purdue
SCORE

Oct. 13 vs. Kent State Oct. 20 vs. Michigan State Oct. 27 at Penn State Nov. 3 vs. Wisconsin Nov. 10 vs. Illinois Nov. 17 at Michigan
SCORE

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