FOOTBALL

INSIDETHE ROANOKE TIMES THURSDAY, AUGUST 23, 2012

COLLISION COURSE

Cover storiesHidden Valley’s Jake Kite (above left) and Patrick Henry’s David Prince have made commitments to ACC schools, but first they will suit up as high school seniors. Kite and Prince will be on opposite sides Friday night at PH when the 2012 football season opens across Timesland.

PRINCE Page 3 | KITE Page 4

REACHING NEW

HEIGHTS

COVINGTON’S TROY HELTON

PAGE 10

1. SALEM2. PATRICK HENRY3. NORTHSIDE4. FRANKLIN COUNTY5. ROCKBRIDGE COUNTY6. PULASKI COUNTY7. GILES8. HIDDEN VALLEY9. CHRISTIANSBURG10. GEORGE WYTHE

TIMESLAND TOP

10

TIMESLAND SCHEDULES2012 PREDICTIONS WESTERN VALLEY DISTRICT

FRANKLIN COUNTYAug. 24 at William Fleming W, 20-3Aug. 31 Woodbridge W, 21-14Sept. 7 at Salem W, 14-13Sept. 14 Magna Vista L, 28-26Sept. 21 at Bassett W, 34-13Sept. 28 Christiansburg L, 42-8Oct. 5 William Fleming W, 35-16Oct. 12 at Halifax County W, 49-29Oct. 19 at George Washington W, 34-20Oct. 26 Patrick Henry W, 34-0

PATRICK HENRYAug. 24 Hidden Valley W, 42-14Aug. 31 at Bassett W, 44-14Sept. 7 Pulaski County W, 31-7Sept. 14 at Blacksburg W, 49-3Sept. 21 at Patriot DNPOct. 5 George Washington W, 31-2Oct. 12 Martinsburg, W.Va. L, 14-9Oct. 19 at Halifax County W, 41-0Oct. 26 at Franklin County L, 34-0Nov. 2 William Fleming W, 14-0

WILLIAM FLEMINGAug. 24 Franklin County L, 20-3Aug. 31 Amherst County L, 9-0Sept. 7 at Magna Vista L, 14-9Sept. 14 E.C. Glass L, 21-20Sept. 21 R.J. Reynolds, N.C. L, 27-14Sept. 28 Salem L, 21-0Oct. 5 at Franklin County L, 35-16Oct. 12 George Washington L, 32-7Oct. 26 Halifax County W, 9-7Nov. 2 at Patrick Henry L, 14-0

BLUE RIDGE DISTRICT

ALLEGHANYAug. 24 Covington W, 47-0Sept. 7 Rustburg L, 35-13Sept. 14 at Bath County W, 35-20Sept. 21 Cave Spring L, 45-21Sept. 28 at James River W, 35-19Oct. 5 at Northside L, 42-21Oct. 12 William Byrd L, 41-25Oct. 19 at Rockbridge County L, 31-29Oct. 26 Lord Botetourt W, 36-0Nov. 2 at Staunton River L, 40-28

LORD BOTETOURTAug. 24 James River W, 45-7Aug. 31 at Salem L, 29-13Sept. 7 at Hidden Valley L, 31-10Sept. 14 at Cave Spring L, 34-18Sept. 21 Blacksburg W, 12-11 Oct. 5 at William Byrd L, 32-3Oct. 12 Rockbridge County L, 38-0Oct. 19 Staunton River W, 17-16Oct. 26 at Alleghany L, 36-0Nov. 2 Northside L, 28-27

NORTHSIDEAug. 24 at Amherst County W, 20-14Aug. 31 Pulaski County W, 17-9Sept. 7 Cave Spring W, 45-21Sept. 14 Hidden Valley W, 21-17Sept. 21 at Salem W, 23-17Oct. 5 Alleghany W, 42-21Oct. 12 at Staunton River W, 42-20Oct. 19 at William Byrd W, 21-20Oct. 26 Rockbridge County W, 19-6Nov. 2 at Lord Botetourt W, 28-27

ROCKBRIDGE COUNTYAug. 24 Parry McCluer W, 48-7Aug. 31 Waynesboro W, 53-17Sept. 7 at Fort Defiance W, 26-22Sept. 14 Robert E. Lee L, 14-0Sept. 21 at Amherst County W, 20-0Oct. 5 Staunton River W, 21-14Oct. 12 at Lord Botetourt W, 38-0Oct. 19 Alleghany W, 31-29Oct. 26 at Northside L, 19-6Nov. 2 at William Byrd W, 46-28

STAUNTON RIVERAug. 31 at Jefferson Forest L, 42-24Sept. 7 at Liberty W, 19-6Sept. 14 Patrick County W, 42-7Sept. 21 James River W, 39-15Sept. 28 at Tunstall W, 27-17Oct. 5 at Rockbridge County W, 38-0Oct. 12 Northside L, 42-0Oct. 19 at Lord Botetourt L, 17-16Oct. 26 William Byrd W, 24-20Nov. 2 Alleghany W, 40-28

WILLIAM BYRDAug. 24 at Cave Spring L, 28-14Aug. 31 Hidden Valley L, 20-6Sept. 7 at Brookville L, 42-6Sept. 14 Salem L, 27-13Sept. 28 Glenvar W, 42-21Oct. 5 Lord Botetourt W, 32-3Oct. 12 at Alleghany W, 41-25Oct. 19 Northside L, 21-20Oct. 26 at Staunton River L, 24-20Nov. 2 Rockbridge County L, 46-28

PIEDMONT DISTRICT

BASSETTAug. 24 at Carroll County W, 14-7Aug. 31 Patrick Henry L, 44-14Sept. 7 at Jefferson Forest L, 44-21Sept. 14 Christiansburg L, 47-0Sept. 21 Franklin County L, 34-13Sept. 28 at Hidden Valley L, 28-21Oct. 5 Tunstall W, 19-14Oct. 19 at Martinsville L, 46-34Oct. 26 at Patrick County W, 42-6Nov. 2 Magna Vista L, 27-14

MAGNA VISTAAug. 24 at Heritage W, 34-19Aug. 31 Morehead, N.C. W, 49-16Sept. 7 William Fleming W, 14-9Sept. 14 at Franklin County W, 28-26Sept. 21 Pulaski County W, 35-28Sept. 28 at Halifax County W, 42-21Oct. 5 Patrick County W, 64-13Oct. 12 at Tunstall W, 42-0Oct. 26 Martinsville W, 34-17Nov. 2 at Bassett W, 27-14

MARTINSVILLEAug. 24 Brookville L, 35-18Aug. 31 at Cave Spring L, 50-29Sept. 14 Liberty W, 44-34Sept. 21 Halifax County L, 17-10Sept. 28 at Carroll County W, 18-14Oct. 5 at Heritage L, 18-10Oct. 12 at Patrick County W, 36-0Oct. 19 Bassett W, 46-34Oct. 26 at Magna Vista L, 34-17Nov. 2 Tunstall W, 21-14

PATRICK COUNTYAug. 24 North Stokes, N.C. L, 24-0Sept. 7 at Floyd County L, 62-0Sept. 14 at Staunton River L, 42-7Sept. 21 Richlands L, 49-0Sept. 28 Radford L, 38-13Oct. 5 at Magna Vista L, 64-13Oct. 12 Martinsville L, 36-0Oct. 19 at Tunstall L, 21-13Oct. 26 Bassett L, 42-6Nov. 2 at Carroll County L, 41-6

RIVER RIDGE DISTRICT

BLACKSBURGAug. 24 Giles L, 10-0Aug. 31 Liberty L, 40-3Sept. 7 at Tazewell W, 30-7Sept. 14 Patrick Henry L, 49-3Sept. 21 at Lord Botetourt L, 12-11Oct. 5 Hidden Valley L, 41-7Oct. 12 at Salem L, 55-7Oct. 19 at Cave Spring L, 40-6Oct. 26 Pulaski County L, 28-0Nov. 2 at Christiansburg L, 41-10

CAVE SPRINGAug. 24 William Byrd W, 28-14Aug. 31 Martinsville W, 50-29Sept. 7 at Northside L, 45-21Sept. 14 Lord Botetourt W, 34-18Sept. 21 at Alleghany W, 45-21Oct. 5 Salem L, 29-26Oct. 12 at Pulaski County W, 22-20Oct. 19 Blacksburg W, 40-6Oct. 26 at Christiansburg W, 26-21Nov. 2 at Hidden Valley L, 41-39

CHRISTIANSBURGAug. 24 Floyd County W, 49-0Aug. 31 at Giles W, 20-10Sept. 7 Carroll County W, 52-13Sept. 14 at Bassett W, 47-0Sept. 28 at Franklin County W, 42-8Oct. 5 Pulaski County W, 28-7Oct. 12 at Hidden Valley W, 31-6Oct. 19 at Salem W, 42-36Oct. 26 Cave Spring L, 26-21Nov. 2 Blacksburg W, 41-10

HIDDEN VALLEYAug. 24 at Patrick Henry L, 42-14Aug. 31 at William Byrd W, 20-6Sept. 7 Lord Botetourt W, 31-10Sept. 14 at Northside L, 21-17Sept. 28 Bassett W, 28-21Oct. 5 at Blacksburg W, 41-7Oct. 12 Christiansburg L, 31-6Oct. 19 at Pulaski County W, 13-10Oct. 26 Salem L, 10-3Nov. 2 Cave Spring W, 41-39

PULASKI COUNTYAug. 24 Radford L, 13-12Aug. 31 at Northside L, 17-9Sept. 7 at Patrick Henry L, 31-7Sept. 14 Richlands L, 38-21Sept. 21 at Magna Vista L, 35-28Oct. 5 at Christiansburg L, 28-7Oct. 12 Cave Spring L, 22-20Oct. 19 Hidden Valley L, 13-10Oct. 26 at Blacksburg W, 28-0Nov. 2 Salem L, 35-20

SALEMAug. 31 Lord Botetourt W, 29-13Sept. 7 Franklin County L, 14-13Sept. 14 at William Byrd W, 27-13Sept. 21 Northside L, 23-17Sept. 28 at William Fleming W, 21-10Oct. 5 at Cave Spring W, 29-26Oct. 12 Blacksburg W, 55-7Oct. 19 Christiansburg L, 42-36Oct. 26 at Hidden Valley W, 10-3Nov. 2 at Pulaski County W, 35-20

SEMINOLE DISTRICT

JEFFERSON FORESTAug. 24 at Halifax County W, 35-12Aug. 31 Staunton River W, 42-24Sept. 7 Bassett W, 44-21Sept. 14 at Turner Ashby W, 28-16Sept. 21 Brookville L, 35-10Oct. 6 at E.C. Glass W, 45-21Oct. 12 Liberty W, 36-25Oct. 19 at Amherst County W, 24-21Oct. 26 Heritage W, 34-14Nov. 2 at Rustburg L, 27-14

LIBERTYAug. 31 at Blacksburg W, 40-3Sept. 7 Staunton River L, 19-6Sept. 14 at Martinsville L, 44-34Sept. 21 Heritage L, 42-0Sept. 28 at Rustburg L, 21-12Oct. 5 Brookville L, 47-0Oct. 12 at Jefferson Forest L, 36-25Oct. 19 E.C. Glass L, 49-19Oct. 26 at Harrisonburg L, 41-20Nov. 2 at Amherst County L, 28-12

SOUTHWEST

CARROLL COUNTYAug. 24 Bassett L, 14-7Aug. 31 at Mt. Airy, N.C. L, 21-6Sept. 7 at Christiansburg L, 52-13Sept. 21 at Grayson County L, 26-19Sept. 28 Martinsville L, 18-14Oct. 5 Abingdon W, 16-3Oct. 12 at Richlands L, 48-23Oct. 19 at Tazewell W, 53-0Oct. 26 Marion L, 30-8Nov. 2 Patrick County W, 41-6

MARIONAug. 24 Chilhowie L, 35-21Aug. 31 at Northwood W, 57-0Sept. 7 Fort Chiswell L, 29-7Sept. 14 at Rural Retreat L, 46-31Sept. 21 Graham L, 28-26Sept. 28 George Wythe L, 52-13Oct. 5 at Richlands L, 49-0Oct. 19 Tazewell W, 37-10Oct. 26 at Carroll County W, 30-8Nov. 2 at Abingdon W, 55-24

HOGOHEEGEE DISTRICT

CHILHOWIEAug. 24 at Marion W, 35-21Aug. 31 Grayson County L, 40-7Sept. 7 at Abingdon W, 7-0Sept. 14 Fort Chiswell L, 35-7Sept. 21 Northwood W, 34-6Sept. 28 at Virginia High L, 21-6Oct. 5 at Rural Retreat L, 28-22Oct. 12 George Wythe L, 56-10Oct. 26 PH-Glade Spring W, 55-0Nov. 2 at Holston W, 28-14

GEORGE WYTHEAug. 24 Tazewell W, 63-3Aug. 31 Fort Chiswell W, 34-0Sept. 7 at Radford W, 10-7Sept. 14 Floyd County W, 31-19Sept. 28 at Marion W, 52-13Oct. 5 at Northwood W, 62-14Oct. 12 at Chilhowie W, 56-10Oct. 19 PH-Glade Spring W, 49-0Oct. 26 Holston W, 42-0Nov. 2 at Rural Retreat W, 42-6

RURAL RETREATAug. 24 at Fort Chiswell W, 28-22Aug. 31 Bland County W, 42-0Sept. 7 at Grayson County L, 52-13Sept. 14 Marion W, 46-31Sept. 21 at Narrows W, 47-6Oct. 5 Chilhowie W, 28-22Oct. 12 at PH-Glade Spring W, 39-8Oct. 19 Holston W, 45-29Oct. 26 at Northwood W, 27-0Nov. 2 George Wythe L, 42-6

MOUNTAIN EMPIRE DISTRICT

BLAND COUNTYAug. 24 at PH-Glade Spring L, 26-15Aug. 31 at Rural Retreat L, 42-0Sept. 14 Holston L, 21-20Sept. 21 Eastern Montgomery L, 27-21Sept. 28 at Northwood W, 14-12Oct. 5 Narrows W, 16-8Oct. 12 at Grayson County L, 56-13Oct. 19 Graham L, 31-0Oct. 26 at Galax L, 49-0Nov. 2 Fort Chiswell L, 49-13

FORT CHISWELLAug. 24 Rural Retreat L, 28-22Aug. 31 at George Wythe L, 34-0Sept. 7 at Marion W, 29-7Sept. 14 at Chilhowie W, 35-7Sept. 21 Floyd County W, 30-12Oct. 5 Galax L, 52-0Oct. 12 Narrows W, 42-6Oct. 19 Grayson County L, 41-40Oct. 26 at Graham L, 10-7Nov. 2 at Bland County W, 49-13

GALAXAug. 24 Glenvar W, 17-14Aug. 31 at Floyd County W, 37-21Sept. 7 at Eastern Montgomery W, 56-12Sept. 14 at Radford W, 43-0Sept. 21 Craig County W, 49-14Oct. 5 at Fort Chiswell W, 52-0Oct. 12 Graham W, 45-14Oct. 19 at Narrows W, 48-7Oct. 26 Bland County W, 49-0Nov. 2 Grayson County W, 21-6

GRAYSON COUNTYAug. 24 Alleghany, N.C. W, 55-12Aug. 31 at Chilhowie W, 40-7Sept. 7 Rural Retreat W, 52-13Sept. 14 at Clintwood W, 61-6Sept. 21 Carroll County W, 26-19Oct. 5 at Graham W, 41-3Oct. 12 Bland County W, 56-13Oct. 19 at Fort Chiswell W, 41-40Oct. 26 at Narrows W, 48-6Nov. 2 at Galax L, 21-6

NARROWSAug. 24 at James Monroe, W.Va. L, 34-6Aug. 31 at Eastern Montgomery L, 36-6Sept. 7 Craig County L, 28-19Sept. 14 Giles L, 49-12Sept. 21 Rural Retreat L, 47-6Oct. 5 at Bland County L, 16-8Oct. 12 at Fort Chiswell L, 42-6Oct. 19 Galax L, 48-7Oct. 26 Grayson County L, 48-6Nov. 2 at Graham L, 35-7

PIONEER DISTRICT

BATH COUNTYAug. 24 Eastern Montgomery W, ,13-6Aug. 31 Riverheads L, 45-0Sept. 7 at Buffalo Gap L, 14-11Sept. 14 Alleghany L, 35-20Sept. 28 at Pocahontas Co., W.Va. L, 45-33Oct. 5 at Covington L, 22-19Oct. 12 Parry McCluer W, 20-14Oct. 19 at Craig County W, 14-10Oct. 26 James River L, 14-6Nov. 2 Pendleton Co., W.Va. W, 41-6

COVINGTONAug. 24 at Alleghany L, 47-0Aug. 31 at Auburn W, 43-8Sept. 7 Giles L, 42-12Sept. 14 Eastern Montgomery W, 34-22Sept. 21 at Glenvar L, 41-10Sept. 28 at Summers Co., W.Va. W, 27-22Oct. 5 Bath County W, 22-19Oct. 12 at James River W, 50-48Oct. 26 Craig County W, 21-7Nov. 2 at Parry McCluer W, 29-22

CRAIG COUNTYAug. 24 Auburn W, 41-6Aug. 31 East Hardy, W.Va. L, 44-21Sept. 7 at Narrows W, 28-19Sept. 14 at Roanoke Catholic L, 19-0Sept. 21 at Galax L, 49-14Oct. 5 at Parry McCluer L, 30-22Oct. 12 Montcalm, W.Va. W, 55-14Oct. 19 Bath County L, 14-0Oct. 26 at Covington L, 21-7Nov. 2 James River L, 37-0

JAMES RIVERAug. 24 at Lord Botetourt L, 45-7Aug. 31 at Glenvar L, 41-15Sept. 7 Altavista L, 42-0Sept. 14 Auburn W, 54-0Sept. 21 at Staunton River L, 39-15Sept. 28 Alleghany L, 35-19Oct. 12 Covington L, 50-48Oct. 19 Parry McCluer W, 14-13Oct. 26 Bath County W, 14-6Nov. 2 at Craig County W, 37-0

PARRY McCLUERAug. 24 at Rockbridge County L, 48-7Aug. 31 Buffalo Gap L, 28-12Sept. 7 Montcalm, W.Va. W, 64-0`Sept. 14 at Riverheads L, 55-12Sept. 21 Roanoke Catholic W, 20-6Sept. 28 at Auburn W, 41-18Oct. 5 Craig County W, 30-22Oct. 12 at Bath County L, 20-14Oct. 19 at James River L, 14-13Nov. 2 Covington L, 29-22

THREE RIVERS DISTRICT

AUBURNAug. 24 at Craig County L, 41-6Aug. 31 Covington L, 43-8Sept. 7 East Hardy, W.Va. L, 55-36Sept. 14 at James River L, 54-0Sept. 28 Parry McCluer L, 41-18Oct. 5 at Giles L, 62-0Oct. 12 Radford L, 49-0Oct. 19 at Eastern Montgomery L, 36-16Oct. 26 Glenvar L, 63-0Nov. 2 at Floyd County L, 61-14

EASTERN MONTGOMERYAug. 24 at Bath County L, 13-6Aug. 31 Narrows W, 36-6Sept. 7 Galax L, 56-12Sept. 14 at Covington L, 34-22Sept. 21 at Bland County W, 27-21Oct. 5 at Radford L, 57-0Oct. 12 Floyd County L, 55-0Oct. 19 Auburn W, 36-16Oct. 26 at Giles L, 35-0Nov. 2 Glenvar L, 63-7

FLOYD COUNTYAug. 24 at Christiansburg L, 49-0Aug. 31 Galax L, 37-21Sept. 7 Patrick County W, 62-0Sept. 14 at George Wythe L, 31-19Sept. 21 at Fort Chiswell L, 30-12Oct. 5 Glenvar L, 35-18Oct. 12 at Eastern Montgomery W, 55-0Oct. 19 Giles L, 44-6Oct. 26 at Radford L, 13-10Nov. 2 Auburn W, 61-14

GILESAug. 24 at Blacksburg W, 10-0Aug. 31 Christiansburg L, 20-10Sept. 7 at Covington W, 42-12Sept. 14 at Narrows W, 49-12Sept. 21 Tazewell W, 56-7Oct. 5 Auburn W, 62-0Oct. 12 at Glenvar W, 41-28Oct. 19 at Floyd County W, 44-6Oct. 26 Eastern Montgomery W, 35-0Nov. 2 Radford W, 21-17

GLENVARAug. 24 at Galax L, 17-14Aug. 31 James River W, 41-15Sept. 7 James Monroe, W.Va. W, 35-13Sept. 21 Covington W, 41-10Sept. 28 at William Byrd L, 42-21Oct. 5 at Floyd County W, 35-18Oct. 12 Giles L, 41-28Oct. 19 Radford L, 21-14Oct. 26 at Auburn W, 63-0Nov. 2 at Eastern Montgomery W, 63-6

RADFORDAug. 24 at Pulaski County W, 13-12Sept. 7 George Wythe L, 10-7Sept. 14 Galax L, 43-0Sept. 21 Virginia High W, 23-20Sept. 28 at Patrick County W, 38-13Oct. 5 Eastern Montgomery W, 57-0Oct. 12 at Auburn W, 49-0Oct. 19 at Glenvar W, 21-14Oct. 26 Floyd County W, 13-10Nov. 2 at Giles L, 21-17

OLD DOMINION

NORTH CROSSAug. 24 at Charlotte Latin, N.C. L, 23-0Sept. 1 Virginia Episcopal W, 34-0Sept. 8 Blessed Sacrament-Huguenot L, 20-6Sept. 15 vs. Christchurch, at St. Anne’s DNPSept. 22 at Blue Ridge W, 41-21Sept. 29 Hargrave Military W, 42-13Oct. 5 at St. Anne’s-Belfield DNPOct. 13 at Atlantic Shores Christian W, 41-7Oct. 27 Covenant DNPNov. 2 at Norfolk Christian W, 34-27

INDEPENDENT

ROANOKE CATHOLICSept. 1 at Fredericksburg Christian L, 42-0Sept. 7 at Brunswick Academy W, 31-13Sept. 14 Craig County W, 19-0Sept. 21 at Parry McCluer L, 20-6Sept. 28 Fishburne Military W, 17-7Oct. 12 Quantico W, 44-22Oct. 19 Fuqua W, 46-38Oct. 26 at Blessed Sacrament-Huguenot L, 49-22Nov. 2 at Kenston Forest DNP

WESTERN VALLEY1. Franklin County2. Patrick Henry3. George Washington4. William Fleming5. Halifax County

BLUE RIDGE1. Northside2. Rockbridge County3. William Byrd4. Staunton River5. Lord Botetourt6. Alleghany

PIEDMONT1. Magna Vista2. Bassett3. Martinsville4. Tunstall5. Patrick County

RIVER RIDGE1. Salem2. Pulaski County3. Hidden Valley4. Christiansburg5. Cave Spring6. Blacksburg

SEMINOLE1. Brookville2. Amherst County3. Heritage4. Liberty5. Jefferson Forest6. E.C. Glass7. Rustburg

SOUTHWEST1. Richlands2. Marion3. Carroll County4. Abingdon5. Tazewell

HOGOHEEGEE1. George Wythe2. Rural Retreat3. Chilhowie4. Holston5. PH-Glade Spring6. Northwood

MOUNTAIN EMPIRE1. Grayson County2. Fort Chiswell3. Galax4. Graham5. Narrows6. Bland County

PIONEER1. James River2. Covington3. Parry McCluer4. Bath County5. Craig County

THREE RIVERS1. Giles2. Radford3. Floyd County4. Glenvar5. Eastern Montgomery6. Auburn

OLD DOMINION1. Christchurch2. St. Anne’s-Belfield3. Blue Ridge4. Virginia Episcopal5. North Cross6. Covenant

ROBERT ANDERSON’S 2011WEEKLY PREDICTIONSRegular-season: 243-40 .859

Playoffs: 31-12 .721

Overall: 274-52 .840

Team capsules compiled by:Robert Anderson, Ray Cox, Casey Richey, Chuck AltizerCover illustration: Kyle GreenDesign: Mark Shaver, Howard WimmerPhotos: The Roanoke Times Sports editor: Steve Hemphill

Keep up with all the high school sports happenings at varsity.roanoke.com.

2 THE ROANOKE TIMES THURSDAY, AUGUST 23, 20122012 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL2 THE ROANOKE TIMES THURSDAY, AUGUST 23, 20122012 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL

Photo illustration by KYLE GREEN | The Roanoke Times

Patrick Henry High School quarterback David Prince was a wide receiver as a sophomore until former PH coach Brad Bradley made him the starting quarterback in the sixth game of the 2010 season.

Alan Fiddler’s birthday falls on Christmas.

Poor guy. Twice the hol-idays, half the presents.

Who’s sorry now?When Fiddler became the head

football coach at Patrick Henry High School in 2011, he found a nice gift-wrapped package at the corner of Grandin and Brandon.

Other first-year coaches have done worse than opening a box and discovering an athlete like David Prince.

The 6-foot-1, 180-pound Prince is a track star with enough speed to land a football scholarship from Virginia Tech. He has started the last 15 games at quarter-back for Patrick Henry and will be running the offense again in 2012.

However, what makes Prince special are the intangibles: leadership, work ethic, being a solid citizen.

“I inherited a good guy,” Fiddler said. “He’s a Division I athlete. I’ll take that every day of the week.

“Great athletes come and go, but when you’ve got a kid who does things the right way it makes it enjoyable.”

Of course, football will be a lot more fun for the Patriots this year if they do some-thing no PH team has accomplished since 2000 — advance to the Northwest Region playoffs.

Last year the table was set for the Patriots to unseat Franklin County as the Western Valley District champion, but the Eagles came to Roanoke and hammered PH 34-0.

Prince threw as many interceptions (2) against Franklin County as he had pass completions. He ran 11 times for 11 yards, then carried the heavy burden of defeat home on his narrow shoulders.

Nearly a year later, the pain remains.“It doesn’t feel good,” Prince said. “I

don’t like thinking about it. I don’t like talk-ing about it much. It’s definitely a motiva-tor though.”

Patrick Henry finished 7-3 in 2011 and lost all three of its close games.

Included was 16-14 home loss to 2010 Group AAA Division 6 state champion Battlefield. Prince was directing a poten-tial game-winning drive when he made a bad read on a third-down option play and took the Patriots out of field goal range.

“I should have kept it and I pitched it automatically,” Prince said. “I do take a little bit of blame for that. As a team, we kind of folded in big games.

“Personally, that was my first big game of my career. I’d never been in a tight game like that, when we have the ball driving down the field with under a minute left in the game. It was my job to lead us and I didn’t.”

When the city of Roanoke celebrated the start of its the school year last week with an Olympics-style ceremony, Prince

was selected to carry the torch for Patrick Henry.

No surprise there.“He works hard. He’s a leader,” Fiddler

said. “Even though he’s already the schol-arship offer and he’s one of the best players in the area, he still works every day to try to get better.

“A lot of kids out there that want to be Division I football players need to look at David and the way he’s handled himself.”

Fiddler, who was the head coach at NCAA Division II Glenville State (W.Va.) and is a former college quarterback, worked closely with Prince on his passing skills this spring and summer.

“We changed some of his mechanics,” Fiddler said. “When he was so young and he wasn’t strong enough, he would drop that back hip and bend that back knee. He was kind of shot-putting the ball. His pass-ing has really improved. It’s showing up on the field in practice and all spring.

“The games that we struggled in, we got beat up front. That made it tough. I don’t think we had as many weapons as we have this year.”

Prince was a wide receiver as a sopho-more until former PH coach Brad Bradley made him the starting quarterback in the sixth game of the 2010 season at Chris-tiansburg.

The Blue Demons, ranked No. 1 in Group AA at the time, smashed the Patri-ots 40-6.

“I ran the ball over 20 times and I took a beating,” Prince said. “That was my wake-up call.”

He answered it by rushing for 214 yards and passing for 106 in a 30-7 WVD win at George Washington.

Prince, who barely weighed 150 pounds as a 10th-grader, did not run from the adversity.

“I always wanted to be there, at quarter-back,” he said. “Most of the older guys — Ryan Revia, Mike Clark, Devontae Casey, Zach Cochran, Brandon Terry — they kept encouraging me.”

Now it’s his turn.“If you put your head down, the whole

team will,” Prince said. “Especially the young guys, they’re following you. I was there one day. They look up to you. They want to be like you one day.”

Prince had his heroes as a youngster, but they all wore the blue and gold of Wil-liam Fleming, where his grandfather, Sher-ley Stuart, was once the Colonels’ head football coach.

Former Fleming football stars Mijuan Curtis and Dere Hicks were Prince’s idols.

“I didn’t really know too many guys from PH,” Prince said.

Curtis and Hicks also were track and field standouts, catching Prince’s eye at an early age. “I knew track before I knew football,” Prince said. “When I was 5, 6, 7 years old I was running around with my granddad and we went to track meets. He’d pick me up after school and I’d go practice with Fleming.”

The Patrick Henry senior figured he would follow in Fleming footsteps. That was until his mother moved to the other side of town.

“I sat out two years of football because we had moved from Northwest over to

here,” Prince said. “I was all Fleming back then. My mom told me she’s not transport-ing me to Northwest anymore because it was too much on gas.

“I kind of figured the only way for me to play football was to play for PH. My sev-enth-grade year I came out here. Nothing but love.”

In June, Prince finished third in the Group AAA track and field meet with one of the top long jumps in Timesland in many years — 24 feet, 1⁄4-inch.

If Prince envisioned himself as a col-lege athlete, it would have been in track, not football, even two years ago when he became a starting quarterback.

“I was just running around playing high school football,” he said. “Even last year when I got that offer from Tech. I was out of the zone. I wasn’t even thinking that would come that early in the season.

“I always told myself, ‘Maybe I’ll get a ‘D-one-double-A’ offer by my senior year.’ I never thought of myself to be like that.”

Virginia Tech recruited Prince as a slot receiver or split end. PH occasionally sent Prince wide last year.

“He has a lot of potential because he’s just so fast,” Fiddler said. “He can fly. He can get to top-end speed really quick. He catches the ball well. We played him at receiver in 7-on-7 this spring. He did well. Really, he was dominant.

“He’s one of the faster guys I’ve been around, high school or college.”

Prince has been the quarterback of the only two PH teams to post a winning record since 2000. The Patriots were 6-4 in 2010 under Bradley, who left after his second season to take the job at Group A Amelia County.

Bradley left Amelia after one season and is now at Heritage High in Lynchburg.

Prince said he was crushed when Brad-ley left PH.

“I wasn’t feeling too well,” Prince said. “Everybody didn’t know what to do.

“A lot of people had their heads down because he was so good at forming rela-tionships with the players. A lot of upcom-ing seniors were saying, ‘Nobody wants to play. Third head coach in four years. We’re going to start over scratch again.’ ”

Enter Fiddler.“It was really exciting to find out Coach

Fiddler was coming here,” Prince said. “Coach Fiddler knows the game of foot-ball. He teaches the game. Everybody likes him.”

Prince said he is considering graduat-ing early from PH and entering Tech in January, but he sounds hesitant.

“I doubt I will because of track,” he said. “I feel like I have a chance to compete for the state title this year.”

Prince might play football and run track at Tech, just like a former Tech two-way star who shares his first name — David Wilson.

Initially, that might be too much of a good thing. Like getting double the pres-ents on Christmas.

“David Wilson was a national champi-on in the triple jump,” Prince said. “There wasn’t much doubt he would run track. I want to do what I’m going there for first, which is to get my books. After that, it’s football.”

Speedy Prince

leads by example

The Patrick Henry quarterback grew from an undersized wide receiver

into a Virginia Tech recruit.

By Robert Andersonrobert.anderson@roanoke.com 981-3123

STEPHANIE KLEIN-DAVIS | The Roanoke Times

Patrick Henry High School senior quarterback David Prince scrimmages recently against Rustburg.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 23, 2012 THE ROANOKE TIMES 32012 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALLTHURSDAY, AUGUST 23, 2012 THE ROANOKE TIMES 32012 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL

STEPHANIE KLEIN-DAVIS | The Roanoke Times

Hidden Valley High School senior Jake Kite has already accepted a scholarship offer to play football at Duke University. He was the 2011 Timesland defensive player of the year for the 7-5 Titans.

Let’s go to the tape.

There’s No. 20 in navy and gold knifing through lead blockers as though

they’re not there and dropping a sweeping tailback in his tracks after a gain of no more than a yard.

Here’s another sweep to the opposite side. You can’t even see 20 until after the play is well under way.

A defensive back, No. 20 is rolling full tilt when he comes into the pic-ture to chop down the ballcarrier, who looks as if he just fell abruptly into a deep hole and disappeared into the turf after being buried dur-ing the takedown.

There’s 20 again, this time on special teams. He’s back on a kick-off return. The football arrives and is caught by one of the deep backs.

Here comes 20 with a lethal block, leveling one member of the coverage team as though a large tree had just fallen on him.

But 20 isn’t through yet. He’s up looking for somebody else to block. He finds a target, closes in, and pan-cakes that kid more effectively than a cook at IHOP.

Two opposing special teams guys on their backs courtesy of No. 20 on the same play. Not bad.

How about that Jake Kite? That No. 20 for Hidden Valley High School can sure decorate a highlight tape.

He’s an even more ferocious football player seeing him live. The speed, impact, and sheer sound of it all as he engages opposing players can’t be fully appreci-ated on tape.

“He’s the best football player I’ve ever seen,” Hidden Valley teammate Troy Pap-lomatas said. “Never seen a guy play foot-ball like that.”

You might not have either. Let’s see some more of that Feb. 25, 2012, YouTube classic highlight file.

Here are some more tackles. Every one of them is textbook – low angle, shoulders square, exploding into the thighs of the ballcarrier like a torpedo that has gone off target and left the water.

There is no second effort gains on the part of the offensive player. He goes down and stays down; play after play the same

thudding result: No. 20 hits them, and they hit the ground.

Kite, the 2011 Timesland defensive play-er of the year and an all-state pick by the coaches, is poised to administer the pun-ishment through one more black and blue high school season. To hear his coach Scott Weaver tell it, one had better buy a ticket to see Kite play ball while they’re still cheap.

“I’ve been either playing or been around high school football in the Roanoke Valley since ’96 when I was playing at Northside, and he’s the best defensive player I’ve ever seen in the valley,” Weaver said.

The highlight tape is a YouTube eye-opener. Potential viewers beware. Avoid if violence troubles you.

“I heard there were 20 more of his hits that were just as good but didn’t make the tape,” Hidden Valley athletic director Chris Morris said.

Viewers have more than enough to work with in the file that is available to the general public.

Here comes another blown up cov-erage guy on a punt return. Kite closes on the target wide open from at least 30 yards and drills this kid right between the numbers. Up fly the guy’s feet and down on his backside he goes as if he’s fallen backward off a three-rail fence. The guy just lies there a moment or two. You hope he’s all right.

Kite is the son of Roanoke lawyer and former University of Virginia defensive back Chris Kite, who left most of the han-dling of the recruiting process to Weaver. The coach got the tape out to a pile of major college football offices, Virginia Tech and Virginia among them.

“A lot of tape, a lot of letters, a lot of work,” Weaver said.

Duke offered right away and Kite took it. Many assumed Virginia was the front-runner because of Kite’s father and other family connections (Jake’s older brother is a Virginia undergraduate). But Virginia waited.

Duke coach David Cutcliffe didn’t.“I like [Virginia] a lot, but I saw Duke as

a perfect fit and UVa hadn’t offered yet,” Kite said. “So I went ahead and got it done.”

Kite was one of the keys as the Titans became the most improved team in Timesland if not the state when they

went from 0-10 in 2010 to 7-5 and a sec-ond round Group AA Division 4 Region IV playoff team. Kite played slotback as well as on defense and special teams. Kite averaged 13.1 yards and scored two touch-downs while catching 25 regular season passes.

The scoring has earned Kite some rib-bing because among his red zone incur-sions last year, a number inside the 5 came up just short. More of the same was on display at the Titans first scrimmage this preseason. One play drew some sideline sighs when Kite executed a crisp hitch and go and accepted a nice delivery from quar-terback Nic Ratliff for a foray that ended on the Giles 2.

Defensively, nobody could quibble last year with Kite’s 104 regular season tackles, No. 10 on the Timesland list.

Tackle totals don’t begin the tell the whole story of what Kite can do. Back to the tape, here’s a clip of him returning a kick. Nice move to his inside, would-be tackler misses completely and Kite has 20 more yards. Next guy who gets in his way, he just runs over. More special teams, he’s on PAT defense, down in a three-point stance pointed at the inside angle on the left flank. Kite is so fast in his rush and so precise with his angle that almost before the holder can get the snap down. Kite is stretched out horizontal to the ground to smother the kick.

Kite fits the description of “well-round-ed.” He’s a 3.9 student who hasn’t settled on what direction his college studies will go. Athletically, he’s also wrestled in high school, settling in last winter at 170 pounds (he played football at 6-foot-1, 186 last year).

He banged up a shoulder this summer at Duke’s camp and plans to play with it. He says it hasn’t troubled him any at all in the preseason. The possibility of surgical repair remains open, but only after the sea-son. In any case, he appears to be leaning away from returning to the wrestling mat this season.

“I’d like to [wrestle] but if not, big pic-ture, it would probably be smart to concen-trate on football and Duke.”

Speaking of leaning, another of Kite’s talents is riding a unicycle. He just got a new one — an off-road model no less — after committing to Duke. Somewhere is a video of Kite going out for a pass on the unicycle and making the catch.

Duke’s coaches are aware he can one-wheel it and they’re cool with that.

“Long as I don’t get hurt,” Kite said. If the tape of Kite crushing it on the

football field is any indication, when No. 20 is involved, it’s usually somebody else who feels the pain.

Take the runner early in the tape who has good momentum when he hits the left tackle hole. Here comes 20 to meet him. What a shot. Oh, no. There goes the ball-carrier’s headgear flying at least 5 yards to the rear.

You hope for compassion’s sake the guy’s head isn’t still in that headgear.

Titans’ Kite stars in video of

hit paradeHidden Valley’s No. 20 has

made a specialty of making sure the opposing player

goes down on the first hit, and the film proves it.

By Ray Coxray.cox@roanoke.com 381-1672

“He’s the best football player I’ve ever seen. Never seen a guy play football like that.”Hidden Valley’s Troy PaplomatasOn teammate Jake Kite

The Roanoke Times | File 2011

Jake Kite (20) of Hidden Valley looks to run the ball during a game against Christiansburg High School last year. The senior returns this year stronger and more experienced, making him a formidable opponent.

4 THE ROANOKE TIMES THURSDAY, AUGUST 23, 20122012 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL4 THE ROANOKE TIMES THURSDAY, AUGUST 23, 20122012 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL

FRANKLIN COUNTYCoach: Chris Jones (fourth season)Record at Franklin County: 27-9Last season: 9-3, 4-0 (lost in Northwest Region Division 6 semifinal)Returning offensive starters: 4Returning defensive starters: 7Players to watch: OL-LB Ryan Wade (6-0, 230, sr.), RB-WR Chance Tyree (5-9, 200, sr.), OL-DL Tyler Tune (6-0, 230, jr.), OL-DL Josh Stone (6-0, 250, sr.), FB-DL Jon Altice (5-9, 195, sr.), WR-DB Christian Witcher (6-1, 190, sr.), OL Alveno Matthews (6-1, 240, jr.), WR-DB Hakeem Alderman (6-1, 170, jr.), WR-DB Bubba Henderson (5-11, 175, sr.), DB-KR E.J. Harris (5-7, 160, sr.).2011 summary: Franklin County has not lost a WVD game in Jones’ three seasons, and the Eagles outscored their league foes 152-65 last year after getting hammered 42-8 at Christiansburg. FC won a playoff game for the third straight season before falling to Battlefield 38-21. A road win over Woodbridge and a 14-13 home victory over Salem on a blocked field goal were among the highlights.Outlook: The Eagles took a blow in preseason with a collarbone injury suffered by returning quarterback Kyle Ellis. Jones’ official stance on the injury is that Ellis will be out an undermined length of time. Franklin County also lost some strong offensive linemen, but there is no shortage up front this year. The defense that shut out Patrick Henry 34-0 last year still should be formidable led by Wade and Tune. Jones, who picked up his 100th career victory has won state titles at the Group A and Group AA level. The next step is a trip to a Northwest Region final. It probably will not happen this year.

PATRICK HENRYCoach: Alan Fiddler (second season)Record at Patrick Henry: 7-3Last season: 7-3, 3-1 (did not make playoffs)Returning offensive starters: 6Returning defensive starters: 5Players to watch: QB-DB David Prince (6-1, 180, sr.), RB-LB Demetrius Anderson (5-10, 195, sr.), RB-DB Xavier Whorley (5-11, 185, sr.), WB-FS Trevor Mike (6-0, 185, jr.), WR-CB Cortez Ogden (6-0, 170, jr.), OG-DT Anthony Robinson (6-1, 250, jr.), TE-DE Nate Lee (6-3, 225, jr.), C-DT Zach Baker (6-3, 220, jr.), FB-OLB Antwaun Harried (5-9, 195, sr.), RB-DB Kemonte Cooper (2011 summary: Patrick Henry made a run at the Northwest Region Division 6 playoffs, but the Patriots came up short in big games. PH scored just 26 total points in losses to Battlefield, Class AAA West Virginia state champ Martinsburg and Franklin County with a 34-0 home loss to the Eagles deciding the WVD title. PH put up more

than 40 points four times while the defense posted two shutouts.Outlook: The Patriots should be smoother offensively in Year 2 under Fiddler, a former college head coach at Glenville State (W.Va.). Prince, who has committed to Virginia Tech as a receiver, has 15 starts at QB under his belt. He has plenty of weapons at his disposal including Mike, a transfer from William Fleming. Anderson returns as the WVD defensive player of the year. PK Jacob Otterman kicked seven field goals including a 50-yarder. In order to nail down their first playoff berth since 2000, the Patriots likely will have to beat Franklin County in Rocky Mount in late October.

WILLIAM FLEMINGCoach: Lee Johnson (third season)Record at William Fleming: 1-19Last season: 1-9, 1-3 (did not make playoffs) Returning offensive starters: 1Returning defensive starters: 2Players to watch: WR-LB Etienne Morisseau (6-2, 186, sr.), RB-LB DeRell Stone (6-2, 218, sr.), RB-LB Dah-Qwon Edrington (6-1, 179, sr.), OT-DL Antonio Williams (5-8, 108, sr.), WR-CB Malik Bonds (6-0,

178, sr.), WR-SS Diamond Shorter (5-5, 137, sr.), QB Trey Sawyers (6-2, 159, sr.), QB Tyrell Adams (5-10, 180, fr.), OG-DL Tyler Chumbley (5-8, 211, sr.), WR-CB Nico Johnson (5-9, 147, sr.).2011 summary: William Fleming suffered through another tough season, but at least a 9-7 victory over Halifax County held up, unlike the previous year when the Colonels forfeited their only win. Fleming played its best football early, losing to Magna Vista (14-9), E.C. Glass (21-20) and R.J. Reynolds, N.C. (27-14). With a schedule that included just three home games, the Colonels scored only 78 points all year.Outlook: The Colonels do not bring back much experience despite last year’s 1-9 record. The starting offensive line includes four sophomores. At least four prospective starters transferred to other schools in the valley. Fleming appears to have a Division I recruit in Morisseau, a transfer from Howard H.S. in Ellicott City, Md. Johnson said James Madison is hot on the recruiting trail. Bonds, one of Timesland’s fastest track sprinters, has joined the team this fall. Sawyers, a transfer from Birmingham, Ala., will start at QB. Even with seven home games this year, the Colonels still have a long way to go.

WESTERN VALLEY DISTRICT

ALLEGHANYCoach: Jack Baker (10th season)Record at Alleghany: 38-56Last season: 4-6, 1-4 (did not make playoffs)Returning offensive starters: 4Returning defensive starters: 5Players to watch: WR-LB Ethan Nicely (5-10, 165, sr.), QB-DB Nick Ferrell (6-2, 175, jr.), WR-DB Kendall Kessinger (5-7, 140, jr.), RB-DB Dalton Unroe (5-9, 160, sr.), WR-DB Tanner Seay (5-10, 170, sr.), RB-DB Daniel Unroe (5-9, 160, sr.), OL-DT Christian Vess (5-10, 255, sr.), OL-DE Levi Peters (5-10, 205, soph.), WR-LB Waylon Maydian (5-11, 170, sr.), OL-LB Darin Buckner (5-11, 200, sr.).2011 summary: Alleghany lacked a breakthrough victory against a strong schedule. Five of the six teams that beat the Mountaineers made the playoffs. The victories were against Lord Botetourt and Group A Pioneer District teams Covington, Bath County and James River. Offense was not the problem as QB Seth Bradley finished his career with more than 5,000 passing yards. In its six losses, Alleghany gave up 234 points.Outlook: The Mountaineers are the BRD’s smallest school, but they posted a playoff win in 2010 over Robert E. Lee and had a near postseason upset of Brookville in ’09. Gone is Bradley, who threw for 23 TDs and just five interceptions in 2011. Ferrell has been a little-used backup for the past two years, but he appears ready. Nicely and Kessinger combined for 70 catches and 12 TDs in the spread attack. Dalton Unroe was the No. 2 tackler behind graduated LB Connor Simpson. The other teams at the bottom of the BRD in 2011 figure to be improved. A .500 season will be a stretch.

LORD BOTETOURTCoach: Jamie Harless (first season)Last season: 3-7, 1-4 (did not make playoffs)Returning offensive starters: 5Returning defensive starters: 5Players to watch: TE-ILB Thomas Kennedy (6-0, 245, sr.), RB Chris Thompson (5-10, 200, jr.), TE-ILB Patrick Boland (6-0, 208, sr.), OL-DL Andrew Williams (6-0, 259, sr.), QB-DB Conner Bronson (5-9, 170, sr.), RB-OLB Daijon Bannister (5-10, 191, jr.), QB Alex Hampton (6-3, 151, sr.), TE-DL Daniel Rader (5-10, 226, jr.), TE-DB Austin Oyler (5-11, 169, soph.), TE-DL Peyton Calenger (5-11, 193, sr.).2011 summary: Lord Botetourt’s season was anything but routine. Six games into the schedule, head coach Tater Benson suffered a knee injury in practice and missed the last four games as he was collecting workers’ compensation. With assistant Josh Aliveto in charge, the Cavaliers were blanked by Rockbridge County (38-0) and Alleghany (36-0), but they beat Staunton River (17-16) and barely lost to Northside (28-27, OT).Outlook: The Cavaliers are anxious to see if Harless, a former assistant at Cave Spring and Franklin County can lead a turnaround. Botetourt hasn’t posted a winning season since 2000 or a playoff victory since 1984. Expect a physical approach featuring Thompson, who rushed for 513 yards as a sophomore. The QB job was undecided through preseason as potential returnee Will Cline opted not to play. Kennedy, Boland and Williams should be solid two-way players. The nondistrict schedule is not brutal, but four of the first six games are on the road. Four or five wins might be the ceiling in Harless’ first year.

NORTHSIDECoach: Burt Torrence (seventh season)Record at Northside: 41-28Last season: 11-1, 5-0 (lost in Region III Division 3 final)Returning offensive starters: 3Returning defensive starters: 6Players to watch: OG-NG DeAnthony Muse (6-0, 246, jr.), TE-DE Demetrius Ferebee (6-5, 225, sr.), WR-ILB Ezra Waddey (5-7, 200, jr.), WR-FS Harold Buckner (6-3, 175, jr.), QB-CB Dom Dunnaville (5-9, 162, jr.), QB-OLB Matt Culicerto (5-11, 185, jr.), TB-ILB Isaiah Kelso (5-7, 190, sr.), RB-LB Jeremy Williams (5-10, 230, sr.), TE-DT Chance Hall (6-5, 266, soph.), OT-DT Tom Stump (6-0, 265, sr.).2011 summary: Northside posted its second 10-0 regular season in school history and led eventual Division 3 state champion Brookville 7-0 in the regional final before things went downhill. Quarterback Adam Hardister graduated with nearly every school passing record, while big-play threats Tyler Fisher and Dakota Jackson also departed. The Vikings enter 2012 with a 15-game regular-season win streak.Outlook: Dunnaville, a transfer from William Fleming, won the starting quarterback job in preseason after a battle with two-year JV QB Matt Culicerto. There is plenty of speed on offense so expect to see some different plays this fall. Kelso, the starter at tailback early

last year, has won the job again. Buckner, another Fleming transfer, brings some outside speed. Muse, the 2011 Timesland Sizzlin’ Sophomore of the year on defense, is a tackling machine. Ferebee could be a Division I prospect, while Hall is a massive sophomore. Northside has won 32 games in the last three years. The Vikings could add another nine or 10.

ROCKBRIDGE COUNTYCoach: Jason White (eighth seasonRecord at Rockbridge County: 37-41Last season: 9-3, 4-1 (lost in Region III Division 3 semifinal)Returning offensive starters: 6Returning defensive starters: 6Players to watch: QB-KR Porter Abell (6-0, 185, sr.), TE-LB Adam Doll-Hennis (6-0, 225, jr.), WR-CB Colton Wilson (5-9, 175, sr.), OT-DE Austin Clark (6-6, 265, soph.), LG-DT Curtis Fridley (6-3, 275, sr.), TE-LB Chance Holland (6-2, 185, sr.), RB-FS Cheyenne Pooley (5-10, 170, jr.), RB-CB Omar White (5-9, 155, jr.), OG-DL Hunter Higgins (6-1, 255, sr.), OL-DE Richie Tomlin (6-3, 275, jr.).2011 summary: Rockbridge County threw a major scare into Brookville in its regional semifinal before losing 19-14. The Wildcats’ major problem was offensive production in big games as they lost 19-6 to Northside in the Blue Ridge title game and 14-0 to Robert E. Lee. Senior RB Ling Zheng set the school’s career rushing record. A playoff win over Rustburg was the program’s first since 2006.Outlook: The Wildcats need to stay healthy, particularly at quarterback where Abell is one of Timesland’s best. The Richmond recruit excels at running the triple option and has speed to score from 80 yards out. Pooley and White figure to split duty at halfback. Doll-Hennis had 81 solo tackles last year and will be even more physical as a junior. The long-armed Clark could be a high-major prospect in two years. Soccer standout Miles Bent has signed on as a place-kicker. Rockbridge should be first in line to challenge Northside’s recent Blue Ridge dominance. Expect another playoff berth and a possible regional semifinal.

STAUNTON RIVERCoach: Chuck Poston (third season)Record at Staunton River: 15-8Last season: 7-4, 2-3 (lost in Region III Division 4 first round)Returning offensive starters: 4Returning defensive starters: 3Players to watch: QB Deshawn Martin (5-10, 180, jr.), RB-LB Chris Tyree (6-1, 171, sr.), TE-MLB Madisyn Vieira (6-3, 240, sr.), FB-LB Paul Williams (5-9, 175, sr.), C-DL Cortland Frederick (5-9, 185, sr.), WR-DB Ramir Hunt (6-2, 180, jr.), OG-DL Matt Saunders (6-0, 215, sr.), OT-DL Zach Miller (6-3, 255, sr.), WR-DB Marcus Brown (5-9,

155, jr.), WR-DB Brandon Weeks (5-10, 145, sr.).2011 summary: Staunton River’s season had to rate as a success as the Golden Eagles smashed Harrisonburg 28-9 in the playoffs before losing to Jefferson Forest for the second time. Close home losses to Rockbridge County (21-14) and Lord Botetourt (17-16) marred an otherwise solid year. The offense survived a season-ending injury to star RB Jarret Moon to post a second straight winning season.Outlook: The Golden Eagles lost some major talent including speedy Moon and LB Brian Ellis, who is playing at VMI. Tyree moved over from FB to fill in for Moon late last year and had a 237-yard game against Alleghany. Martin brings quickness to the QB position, but he battled a sprained ankle last year. His health is crucial. Frederick made first-team All-Blue Ridge last year on defense. Vieira, a transfer from Franklin County who played basketball for Staunton River last winter, takes Ellis’ spot at linebacker. Opening games against Jefferson Forest and Liberty will be a barometer for the season.

WILLIAM BYRDCoach: Jeff Highfill (32nd season)Record at William Byrd: 160-155-3Last season: 3-7, 2-3 (did not make playoffs)Returning offensive starters: 9Returning defensive starters: 6Players to watch: RB-LB Simeon Horstmann (5-8, 197, jr.), TE-LB Timmy Meador (6-1, 230, sr.), QB-DB Zac Hill (5-10, 165, jr.), RB-LB Darryl Preston (5-7, 180, sr.), OT-DL Chris Thomas (6-1, 280, jr.), OT-DL Sean Jackson (6-1, 260, sr.), C-DL Colton Patriquin (6-3, 210, sr.), OG-DL Brandon Harless (5-10, 208, sr.), OL-DE Caleb Richmond (6-0, 170, sr.), WR-DB Tanner Weaver (6-2, 170, sr.).2011 summary: William Byrd overcame early-season injuries to win three straight games before dropping their final three to miss out on the postseason. The highlight was a 21-20 loss at Northside. That was followed by a 24-20 loss at home to neighborhood rival Staunton River. Byrd’s first four games were against strong teams: Cave Spring, Hidden Valley, Division 3 state champion Brookville and Salem.Outlook: The Terriers return more starters than anyone in the Blue Ridge, but they still lack strength up front, a situation that grew more severe when Thomas was felled by a broken arm in mid-July. He could miss several games. Byrd is strong at the skill positions. Horstmann, Preston and Hill rushed for a combined 2,000 yards with Horstmann picking up 986. Hill started the last six games at QB and passed for 406 yards. Preston could open some eyes this year, while Meador has led the Terriers in tackles for the past two seasons. Byrd will improve, but a .500 will be a challenge against a rough schedule.

BLUE RIDGE DISTRICT

52 TYLER TUNEFranklin County

23 XAVIER WHORLEYPatrick Henry

62 DeANTHONY MUSENorthside

8 PORTER ABELLRockbridge County

25 SIMEON HORSTMANNWilliam Byrd

2012 DIVISIONSenrollment at right

VHSL GROUP AAANORTHWEST REGIONDIVISION 6Battlefield ................................................. 2,982Osbourn Park ............................................ 2,742Woodbridge .............................................. 2,546Gar-Field ................................................... 2,467Stonewall Jackson ................................... 2,442Forest Park ................................................ 2,290C.D. Hylton ................................................ 2,195Franklin County ........................................ 2,164Colonial Forge .......................................... 2,053Osbourn .................................................... 1,953Patrick Henry............................................ 1,948Riverbend.................................................. 1,917Stafford ..................................................... 1,887DIVISION 5Massaponax ............................................. 1,874Freedom-Loudoun ................................... 1,814Freedom-Prince William ......................... 1,794Mountain View......................................... 1,760Halifax County ......................................... 1,742Albemarle ................................................. 1,709North Stafford .......................................... 1,691Broad Run ................................................. 1,661Potomac .................................................... 1,655Brooke Point ............................................. 1,631Orange County ......................................... 1,552William Fleming ....................................... 1,511George Washington ................................ 1,377

GROUP AAREGION IIIDIVISION 4Amherst County ...................................... 1,468E.C. Glass .................................................. 1,374Jefferson Forest ....................................... 1,288Harrisonburg ............................................ 1,282William Byrd ............................................. 1,160Heritage-Lynchburg ................................ 1,111Lord Botetourt ......................................... 1,089Staunton River ......................................... 1,088Turner Ashby ............................................ 1,058Broadway .................................................. 1,023DIVISION 3Brookville ................................................... 1,011Northside ..................................................... 989Rockbridge County..................................... 963Liberty .......................................................... 920Rustburg ...................................................... 919Fort Defiance ............................................... 856Waynesboro ................................................ 851Alleghany ..................................................... 850Spotswood .................................................. 810R.E. Lee-Staunton ....................................... 743REGION IVDIVISION 4Pulaski County ......................................... 1,450Salem ........................................................ 1,239Bassett ...................................................... 1,228Carroll County .......................................... 1,186Hidden Valley ........................................... 1,096Christiansburg ......................................... 1,062Blacksburg ................................................ 1,050Magna Vista ................................................ 953DIVISION 3Abingdon ..................................................... 925Tunstall......................................................... 836Cave Spring ................................................. 820Patrick County ............................................ 778Richlands ..................................................... 736Marion .......................................................... 715Martinsville ................................................. 705Tazewell ....................................................... 663DIVISION 2 WEST(Timesland schools only)Floyd County .............................................. 636Grayson County ......................................... 632Glenvar ........................................................ 600Giles ............................................................. 512Fort Chiswell .............................................. 496James River ................................................ 479DIVISION 1 EAST(Timesland schools only)Parry McCluer ............................................. 329Covington .................................................... 251Bath County ................................................ 232Craig County ............................................... 217DIVISION 1 WEST(Timesland schools only)Radford......................................................... 455Chilhowie ..................................................... 445George Wythe ............................................. 435Auburn ......................................................... 387Galax............................................................. 387Rural Retreat ............................................... 360Bland County ............................................... 299Eastern Montgomery ................................. 298Narrows ....................................................... 233

VISDIVISION IIICovenant ....................................................... 147Hampton Roads ............................................ 147Fishburne Military ........................................ 142Atlantic Shores ............................................. 133Fredericksburg Christian ............................. 121Portsmouth Christian .................................. 120Norfolk Christian........................................... 112Massanutten Military .................................. 110Virginia Episcopal ......................................... 108Isle of Wight .................................................. 98North Cross ................................................... 95DIVISION IVGreenbrier Christian ..................................... 83Hampton Christian ........................................ 70Quantico ......................................................... 69Roanoke Catholic........................................... 68Blessed Sacrament ....................................... 64Fuqua ............................................................... 63Brunswick Academy ..................................... 60Southampton Academy ............................... 56Broadwater ..................................................... 48Tidewater........................................................ 44

NOTES: Numbers used to determine VHSL divisions are March 31, 2011 Average Daily Membership for grades 9-12 submitted to the Department of Education by each school. Classification into three groups is based on Sept. 30, 2009 membership. VIS enrollment figures are for male students only and are 2010 figures.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 23, 2012 THE ROANOKE TIMES 52012 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALLTHURSDAY, AUGUST 23, 2012 THE ROANOKE TIMES 52012 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL

BLACKSBURGCoach: David Crist (38th season)Record at Blacksburg: 227-177-4Last season: 1-9, 0-5 (did not make playoffs)Returning offensive starters: 7Returning defensive starters: 5Players to watch: OT-DL Parker Robertson (6-3, 225, sr.), TE-DE Adam Vaught (6-7, 249, jr.), QB-DB Kaleb Bohrnstedt (6-5, 180, soph.), WR-DB Daniel Stinespring (5-10, 154, sr.), RB-LB Ryan Sims (6-0, 160, jr.), FB-DE Joe Lucas (5-10, 167, jr.), OG-LB Marcus Ilardo (6-0, 260, sr.), OG-LB C.J. Linkous (5-11, 190, sr.), OG-DT Wayne Myers (5-9, 215, jr.), C-DT Brett Palmer (5-10, 224, jr.).2011 summary: Blacksburg’s lone victory was a 30-7 romp over winless Tazewell. Otherwise, the season was a major struggle for a very young team as the Bruins were outscored 316-47 in their nine losses. Two of the setbacks were close, however: a season-opening 10-0 loss at Giles and a 12-11 home loss to Lord Botetourt. Blacksburg did hold a 10-3 lead in the second quarter in its season finale against Christiansburg.Outlook: The Bruins were the youngest team Crist has put on a field since the 1983 squad. There is little question Blacksburg will be much improved this year. Bohrnstedt appears to have grabbed the starting QB job. A basketball standout, Bohrnstedt did not play football last year, but has the athleticism to play free safety or DB. Robertson and Vaught are slated to play DE, but the Bruins could go smaller depending on the opponent. PK Carson Wise could be a weapon in a close game. Can Blacksburg take a step up in the River Ridge standings? The gap between fifth and sixth was cavernous, so it will be difficult.

CAVE SPRINGCoach: Tim Fulton (eighth season)Record at Cave Spring: 43-37Last season: 9-4, 3-2 (lost in Group AA Division 3 semifinal)Returning offensive starters: 4Returning defensive starters: 5Players to watch: RT-DL Dylan Brucki (6-6, 303, sr.), QB-DB Connor Baker (5-11, 177, sr.), TE-LB Jordan Bryant (6-3, 232, sr.), RB-LB James Jackson (5-6, 179, sr.), WR-CB Jon Evans (6-0, 152, sr.), TE-DT Matt Reiter (6-1, 201, sr.), WR-S Jack Woody (6-2, 174, sr.), WR-S Michael Christley (6-0, 161, sr.), FB-DT Kyle Curtis (6-0, 185, jr.), WR-LB Zac Foutz (6-4, 198, soph.).2011 summary: Cave Spring advanced one step further than the Knights did in 2010, winning at Richlands to claim the Region IV Division 3 crown. No one played more exciting games than Cave Spring, which balanced River Ridge wins over Christiansburg (26-21) and Pulaski County (22-20) with district losses to Salem (29-26) and Hidden Valley (41-39, 2 OT). Senior RB Sam Wright graduated after rushing for 2,792 yards.Outlook: The Knights are rebuilding their offense as Brucki and Bryant are the only returning starters up front. Brucki, a Liberty recruit, missed the first scrimmage with a hamstring pull. Jackson, a transfer from Jefferson Forest, will replace Wright at running back. Woody and Evans should give Baker some capable targets in his first year at QB after he missed 2011 with a knee injury. The defense looks solid with Reiter and Curtis up front. Foutz is a very talented sophomore. A seven-win regular season is very unlikely, but a fourth straight playoff berth should be a certainty.

CHRISTIANSBURGCoach: Tim Cromer (11th season)Record at Christiansburg: 74-43Last season: 12-2, 4-1 (lost in Group AA Division 4 championship)Returning offensive starters: 2Returning defensive starters: 3Players to watch: RB-DB De’Quan Green-Gause (6-0, 186, sr.), RB-FS Joey Augustin (6-3, 171, sr.), OG-LB Seth Wills (6-0, 206, jr.), OT-NG Jordan Fenton (5-11, 283, jr.), OL-LB Calvin Graham (5-9, 168, sr.), OG-LB D.J. Dowdy (5-11, 168, sr.), QB Mack Muldoon (5-11, 167, jr.), OT-DL Logan Winters (6-3, 287, jr.), OL-LB Logan Adkins (5-10, 186, jr.).2011 summary: Christiansburg staged its best season in school history, losing 28-26 to Briar Woods in the state final after trailing by 15 points in the fourth quarter. A 29-26 loss at Cave Spring was the only blemish during a regular season that saw the Blue Demons win their five nondistrict games by a combined 210-31. QB Brenden Motley signed with

Virginia Tech, while RB Zach Snell walked on with the Hokies.Outlook: The Blue Demons let observers know whether this is a rebuilding or reloading year following three straight regional titles. The roster includes 20 juniors. Augustin likely will spend most of his time at running back. He and Green-Gause give Christiansburg perhaps Timesland’s most explosive tandem. Muldoon or Justin Dunford will be the quarterback. Dowdy suffered a broken hand in preseason but hopes to play with a cast. Junior PK Jake Hamley could be an edge in close games. Expect the defense to be stout. A berth in the regional final? Don’t bet against it.

HIDDEN VALLEYCoach: Scott Weaver (fourth season)Record at Hidden Valley: 14-19Last season: 7-5, 3-2 (lost in Region IV Division 4 semifinal)Returning offensive starters: 8Returning defensive starters: 7Players to watch: WR-SS Jake Kite (6-1, 188, sr.), MLB Massi Flici (6-2, 215, jr.), WR-FS Chad Frazier (5-10, 155, sr.), QB Nic Ratliff (5-10, 176, sr.), RG-DE Chris Moses (6-2, 234, sr.), C-DT Troy Paplomatas (6-0, 225, sr.), RT-DT Jordan Parke (5-11, 300, sr.), RB-CB Walker Brand (5-7, 182, jr.), TE-DE Jacob Bowen (6-2, 235, sr.), TE-DE Ian Kemp (6-4, 240, sr.).2011 summary: Hidden Valley reached the second round of the playoffs, but the need for speed was evident in a 41-20 loss to Christiansburg. The Titans also gave up big numbers in regular-season losses to Christiansburg (31-6) and Patrick Henry (42-14). Hidden Valley, which went 0-10 in 2010, avoided any upset losses and stunned rival Cave Spring 41-39 in double-overtime to tie for third placed in the district.Outlook: The Titans could continue their upward mobility after last year’s seven-win improvement. The secondary should be a major strong point with the return of Kite, the reigning Timesland defensive player of the year who has

committed to Duke, and Frazier. Flici will be in his third year as a starter after making 56 solo tackles in 10 games. Moses and Parke are three-year starters on the offensive line while Paplomatas was All-Region IV. Frazier, a strong-armed shortstop on the baseball team, takes over at quarterback. Pencil in a second straight postseason appearance for Hidden Valley.

PULASKI COUNTYCoach: Todd Jones (third season)Record at Pulaski County: 6-15Last season: 1-10, 1-4 (lost in Region IV Division 4 first round)Returning offensive starters: 9Returning defensive starters: 6Players to watch: OG-DL James King (6-4, 220, sr.), OT-DL Kareem Calfee (6-3, 275, jr.), RB-LB Quincy Rollins (5-6, 165, jr.), RB-LB Marcus McClanahan (5-10, 215, sr.), RB-LB Zack Akers (6-1, 215, sr.), QB Marcus Johnston (6-1, 205, jr.), TE-DL Codie Blevins (6-1, 225, sr.), RB-LB Corey Dobbins (5-8, 210, sr.), OL-LB Elijah Wesley (5-11, 245, sr.), OL-LB Cory Hale (6-1, 220, sr.).2011 summary: Pulaski County equalled a school-record for losses in a season, matched only by the 0-10 mark posted by the 1975 team. Still, the Cougars made the playoffs in Region IV with a 1-9 regular-season record. The Cougars’ 10 opponents wound up winning 85 games, including 11 in the playoffs. Pulaski, which was searching for stability at quarterback, lost five games by eight points or fewer including two in the River Ridge.Outlook: The Cougars return their entire starting offensive line and most of their athletes at the skill positions. Pulaski has some versatility in its backfield, featuring the quickness of Rollins, the power running of McClanahan and the pass-catching ability of Akers. Blevins could be a major factor at tight end. Johnston, in and out of the lineup in 2011, appears to have won the starting

QB job over sophomore Jesse Draper. King and Calfee are major talents up front, particularly offensively. This season has to be better for the Cougars, who should grab another playoff berth and challenge for a winning record.

SALEMCoach: Stephen Magenbauer (ninth season)Record at Salem: 85-15Last season: 8-4, 4-1 (lost in Region IV Division 4 semifinal)Returning offensive starters: 6Returning defensive starters: 4Players to watch: QB Matt Hill (6-5, 214, sr.), OT-DL Alex Light (6-5, 295, jr.), OT-DE Cameron Clowser (6-2, 207, sr.), RB-LB Arrius McConnell (5-7, 167, sr.), WR-DB Chad Fisher (5-10, 170, sr.), OG-DE Zach Hill (6-1, 211, jr.), RB Isaiah Harris, FB-SS Devante Payne (5-9, 160, jr.), C Spencer Blankenship (5-11, 225, sr.), LB Jamal Holland (5-11, 225, jr.).2011 summary: Salem had a good season that could have been much better. The Spartans lost 14-13 at Franklin County on a blocked field goal, then lost at Northside 23-17 in overtime when they failed to score from the 1-yard line. The other loss came 42-36 at Christiansburg, sealed by a late turnover. Salem shared the River Ridge title, but it has been four years and counting since the Spartans made it out of Region IV.Outlook: The Spartans should have somewhat of a different look offensively with the departure of workhorse Marty Bishop, who set a single-season school rushing record for a fullback. Hill is the lone returning full-time starting QB in the River Ridge. He completed 62 percent of his passes for 850 yards. Fisher is versatile enough to play QB in the “wildcat” formation. Salem lost six of its top seven tacklers from 2011. Look for Payne, Hall and Holland to emerge as playmakers. The 2012 season could be one of the most balanced ever in Timesland. Salem will be somewhere near the top.

RIVER RIDGE DISTRICT

14 MATT HILLSalem

JEFFERSON FORESTCoach: Don Rice (ninth season)Record at Jefferson Forest: 45-40Last season: 9-3, 4-2 (lost in Region III Division 4 final)Returning offensive starters: 6Returning defensive starters: 8Players to watch: WR-DB Dominique Royal (6-1, 170, sr.), WR-DB Cody Loveday (6-0, 170, sr.), QB David Jacobs (6-2, 170, sr.), LB Garrett Neal (5-11, 205, sr.), NG Mike Baker (5-10, 200, sr.), OT Colby Tomlinson (6-4, 240, sr.), OG Ryan Roberson (6-0, 265, sr.), OG Dalton King (5-10, 250, sr.), LB Jason Ayers (5-10, 170, so.), TB Mike Foster (5-10, 150, jr.).2011 summary: Jefferson Forest had its best season since the 1997 team reached the Division 3 state semifinals, but a 29-14 loss to Broadway in the regional final stopped the

Cavaliers short of any further postseason glory. Jefferson Forest averaged close to 29 points a game. Senior QB Marcus Jones rushed for 1,482 yards and 27 touchdowns, while passing for 1,144 yards and another eight scores.Outlook: The Cavaliers must find a way to replace the offensive production of Jones. One player is not going to do it. Also gone is Ryan Gingrich, who caught 31 passes. Royal and Loveday give the Cavaliers some good speed and size at receiver. Royal had 14 catches last year. The offensive line is solid and can open up some holes. The pistol offense should continue to run smoothly, even with a new quarterback at the helm. Brookville and Amherst County are at the top of the Seminole. Nevertheless, the nondistrict schedule is not loaded. Another playoff berth is possible.

LIBERTYCoach: Chris Watts (11th season)Record at Liberty: 80-38Last season: 1-9, 0-6 (did not make playoffs)Returning offensive starters: 6Returning defensive starters: 6Players to watch: TE-LB Hunter Taylor (6-2, 225, sr.), RB-DB Trevon Lightfoot (5-9, 155, sr.), DL Josh Quick (6-3, 275, sr.), C-DE Hunter Patterson (6-0, 205, sr.), QB Austin Porter (6-0, 165, soph.), RB Chase Key (5-7, 160, sr.), RB-LB Matt Smith (6-1, 200, soph.), S Montana Willis (5-11, 180, sr.), TE-LB Jamaal Preston (6-3, 220, jr.), WR-DB Justin Wainscott (6-0, 165, sr.)2011 summary: Liberty played a large number of freshmen and sophomores, and suffered its first losing season since 1999. The defense gave up an average of 33 points per

game. The offense was shut out twice while scoring just six points in a loss to Staunton River. Liberty’s only victory was a season-opening win over a Blacksburg team that finished 1-9. The Minutemen were outscored in their six Seminole losses 264-88.Outlook: The Minutemen aim to return to the form that fans are accustomed to in the upcoming season. Leading scorer Lightfoot returns and will factor in heavily with his versatility, speed and athleticism. Porter and Smith are both young, but will have big roles in the offense. Quick is the big anchor on the defensive line. Preston is a track sprinter who already has drawn some interest from Virginia Tech and Virginia. The best is yet to come for this team but that could be in 2013. A five- or six-win season and a Region III Division 3 playoff berth are possible.

CARROLL COUNTYCoach: Tom Hale (14th season)Record at Carroll County: 74-65Last season: 3-7, 2-2 (did not make playoffs)Returning offensive starters: 4Returning defensive starters: 6Players to watch: QB Conner Lundy (6-3, 158, jr.), WR-S Chris Smoot (6-0, 149, sr.), RB-CB Patrick Davis (5-9, 146, sr.), WR Duncan Reece (6-6, 180, jr.), DT Lucas Holder (6-5, 238, sr.), S Josh Underwood (5-7,138, sr.), WR Taylor Case (5-8, 145, sr.), RB Kody Alley (5-10, 166, sr.), TE-DE Jared Haga (5-11, 187, so.), CB Josh Blankenship (5-9, 130, jr.).2011 summary: Carroll County finished third in the Southwest District, a dropoff from an 8-4 record a year before. The Cavaliers started 0-5 against a difficult schedule that included Christiansburg, but took three of the last five. The Cavaliers suffered four of their seven losses by two scores or less. Lundy led Carroll County in passing with seven touchdowns.

Outlook: The Cavaliers should be solid as Lundy returns to run the offense. He has a big target in the 6-6 Reece. Underwood can contribute in the running game, but Carroll’s top four rushers from last year are gone. Holder anchors the defensive line. Under the Cavaliers’ scheme, he will tie up blockers so linebackers and defensive backs can make plays. Smoot, who grabbed a team-high 12 receptions, also can be a big run stopper from the secondary. A revised defensive scheme and better depth could make Carroll more competitive. Earning an at-large playoff berth in Region IV might require five or six wins.

MARIONCoach: Joey Carroll (second season)Record at Marion: 4-7Last season: 4-7, 3-1 (lost in Region IV Division 3 first round)Returning offensive starters: 5Returning defensive starters: 7Players to watch: RB Ethan Richardson (5-10, 180, sr.), WR Colin Gullion (5-8, 155,

jr.), LB Tanner Cullop (6-0, sr.), QB Trey Cook (6-0, 200, jr.), LB Dustin Tilson (5-10, 175, jr.), WR-CB Kyle Rivero (5-8, 150, jr.), WR Sam Lincoln (6-6, 180, sr.), DL Anthony Bowling (6-3, 270, jr.), OL Brodie Hall (6-0, 280, jr.), OL Skyler Harmon (6-0, 250, sr.).2011 summary: Marion won just one of its first seven games, but closed the regular season by scoring 122 points in three Southwest District wins, losing only in the league to powerhouse Richlands 49-0. The Hurricane also split with Smyth County rivals Chilhowie and Northwood. Tunstall blasted the Scarlet Hurricane 49-14 in the playoffs.Outlook: The Scarlet Hurricane features the return of all-SWD players Richardson and Gullion. Richardson rushed for 958 yards in the regular season, while Gullion caught 30 passes for 532 yards. Lincoln is a large target at receiver. Cullop is among the leaders on defense and was an all-SWD player in 2011. The big loss to graduation was QB Marshall Wagner, who passed for 1,515 yards. Cook takes the job this year. Carroll took his first team to the playoffs. This season should be slightly better in the win column.

SEMINOLE DISTRICT

SOUTHWEST DISTRICT

6 THE ROANOKE TIMES THURSDAY, AUGUST 23, 20122012 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL6 THE ROANOKE TIMES THURSDAY, AUGUST 23, 20122012 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL

BLAND COUNTYCoach: Harris Hart (eighth season)Record at Bland County: 33-39Last season: 2-8, 1-4 (did not make playoffs)Returning offensive starters: 3Returning defensive starters: 3Players to watch: OG-DL John Griffith (6-1, 274, sr.) FB-DE Cody Radford (5-11, 242, sr.), OT-DL Tyler Bridges (5-9, 243, jr.), OT-DL Cody Morgan (6-2, 276, jr.), QB-LB Dylan Walker (6-1, 185, jr.), DB-RB Jonathan Faulkner (6-0, 160, soph.), DB-QB Mason Christian (5-8, 125, soph.), DB-RB Aaron Rose (5-10, 171, soph.), OL-LB Jacob Parker (5-9, 166, soph.), OL-DE Dakota Wright (5-10, 160, soph.).2011 summary: Bland County had back-to-back wins over Division 1 peers Narrows and Northwood in the middle of the season, then the Bears closed with four straight blowout losses. Close setbacks to Holston (21-20) and Eastern Montgomery (27-21) kept the Bears out of the playoffs. Bland was shut out by MED powers Galax and Graham. Graduation losses included FB Jacob Haun and QB Raymond Greene, two of the team’s most productive players.Outlook: The Bears have a sophomore-laden roster. Eight sophomores and one freshman are expected to start. Walker started the last four games at QB last year against the best opponents on the schedule. He’s bright, has good size, and understands the game’s nuances. He’s the only skill position player back since leading rusher Johnny David transferred to Bluefield (W.Va.). The Bears can deploy good size up front with Griffith, Radford and Morgan. With just 24 players, depth is an obvious concern. With a rebuilding year a certainty, the Bears will be a longshot for a Division 1 West playoff berth.

FORT CHISWELLCoach: Stephen James (eighth season)Record at Fort Chiswell: 41-34Last season: 5-5, 2-3 (did not make playoffs)Returning offensive starters: 5Returning defensive starters: 6Players to watch: C-MLB Coleman Thomas (6-6, 295, jr.), WR-DB Desmond Perry (5-11, 175, sr.), HB-DB Daniel Hamm (5-10, 180, sr.), QB Brett Mabry (6-1, 175, jr.), Levi Mooney (5-11, 185, jr.), LT Joe Stoneman (6-1, 205, jr.), LG Austin Widelo (6-2,215, jr.), RG Greg Pistory (6-0, 275, sr.), RT Jordan Crockett (6-4, 300, soph.), TE Lane Edmonds (6-1, 185, jr.)2011 summary: Fort Chiswell had a puzzling .500 season. The Pioneers hammered Chilhowie 35-7 and Floyd County 30-12. Also, a 41-40 loss to Grayson County was the Mountain Empire thriller of the year. Conversely, a 34-0 dud against neighbor and archrival George Wythe was hard to explain. QB Cory Mabry graduated after passing for 1,489 yards. Also gone are leading rusher Corey Gravely

and top scorer Trey Jackson.Outlook: The Pioneers appear to have more focus this year. Thomas already has a scholarship offer from West Virginia. Brett Mabry succeeds his brother at QB without having taken many varsity snaps a year ago. He has good size, athletic ability and deportment. Hamm fits the mold of the kind of durable featured back that has been a staple here during the James era. Overall, the team will be physically improved after a strong offseason hoisting weights. Another asset: PK Zane Gregory, a potential difference maker in a tight game. Fort Chiswell is a definite contender for the MED title. A winning season is almost a certainty.

GALAXCoach: Mark Dixon (third season)Record at Galax: 23-5Last season: 14-1, 5-0 (lost in Group A Division 1 championship)Returning offensive starters: 2Returning defensive starters: 3Players to watch: RB-S Donte Peoples (5-7, 175, sr.), RB-S Steven Peoples (5-11, 200, jr.), G-DT Chaz Sizemore (6-1, 185, sr.), LT-DE Jesse Davis (6-0, 185), QB Chris Poole (5-9, 170, sr.), WR-CB Eli Brady (5-7, 160, sr.) DE Zach Marshall (6-1, 180, sr.), DT Ryan Gravely 5-10, 200, sr.), FS Tyler Smith (5-7, 140, sr.), WR-CB Timmy Gable (6-1, 185, sr.).2011 summary: Galax’s best season ever ended one fourth-down pass completion short of the school’s first Group A Division 1 state championship. The Tide averaged 44.1 points per game while limiting teams to single-figure scoring seven times with three shutouts. Sixteen seniors including Region C defensive player of the year Frankie Shalabi graduated. The program cashed in on its success by embarking on a facilities upgrade last spring.Outlook: The Maroon Tide returns the Peoples brothers, who are dynamic athletes on both sides of the line. Poole, a Carroll County transfer, will start at QB. The line will be similar to last year: not real big but quick, athletic, technically sound. Galax has a deep secondary led by senior Junior Espinoza. Galax ought to win a lot of games again and be a leading contender to return to the postseason again for another run at its first state football championship. Dixon is a first-order motivator with an excellent coaching staff. Galax has to see a dropoff, but the Maroon Tide will be in the playoffs again.

GRAYSON COUNTYCoach: Brett McPherson (seventh season)Record at Grayson County: 33-32Last season: 10-2, 4-1 (lost in Group A Division 2 second round)Returning offensive starters: 6Returning defensive starters: 6Players to watch: QB Max Rogers (6-3, 200, jr.), WR-DB Mikey Rogers

(6-2, 202, sr.), RB-S James Williams (5-9, 143, jr.), RB-DB Spencer Roberts (5-5, 143, sr.), WR-CB Lucas Rudy (6-0, 160, sr.), OT-DL Brett Phipps (6-3, 281, sr.), OT-DL Hardin Halsey (6-3, 266, sr.), C-DT Jordan Adams (6-0, 236, jr.), OG-DL Hunter Moore (6-3, 234, sr.)2011 summary: Grayson County would have been a district champion in any year that Galax didn’t go celestial. The Mountain Empire title came down to a showdown of 9-0 teams in Independence against the Maroon Tide, which won 21-6. Grayson County went on to lose at home to Dan River 31-20 in the second round of the playoffs. A lot of firepower graduated with RB Xavier Rodriguez (121 carries, 1,226 yards, 24 TDs).Outlook: The Blue Devils are led by the Rodgers brothers. Max Rodgers was named the Timesland Sizzlin’ Sophomore of the year on offense after throwing for 1,177 yards and 12 TDs. Mikey Rogers had 33 catches for 750 yards. Roberts and Williams have big shoes to fill, replacing Rodriguez and Darren Anderson. Bruisers such Phipps and Halsey, Moore, and Adams are cause for optimism that the ground game will click. With the Rodgers brothers stretching the field, holes open everywhere. The Devils will be tough to stop. Major challenge: will the defense stand tall in big games? Grayson is playoff-bound the MED favorite.

NARROWSCoach: Kelly Lowe (10th season)Record at Narrows: 40-55Last season: 0-10, 0-5 (did not make playoffs)Returning offensive starters: 5Returning defensive starters: 5Players to watch: QB-S Rodney Perdue (5-11, 163, jr.), RB-DB Dustin Meadows (5-7, 143, sr.), RB Zach Skeens (5-8, 145, jr.), SE-DB Gavin Givens (6-0, 165, jr.), SE Chandler Burton (6-2, 170, jr.), T Gage Munsey (6-2, 249, jr.), G-DT Tyler Evans (5-10, 203, sr.), LB-P Terrance Martin (5-10, 240, jr.), RB- LB Brandon Stowers (5-8, 178, jr.), OL-DL Logan Kantsios (5-11, 215, sr.).2011 summary: Narrows extended its losing streak to 13 games, losing eight games by 28 points or more. Balanced against that, the offense scored nine or more points only twice, one of those coming in a 49-12 loss to Giles. Losses to Craig County (28-19) and Bland County (16-8) were the only ones with under double-figure margins.Outlook: The Green Wave got early bad news when incumbent QB Joe Hall broke a collarbone the first scrimmage, recovery time unknown. Perdue, an all-purpose athlete, has the job for now. Burton, a prolific scorer from the basketball team, should be an inviting passing target if there is time to throw. Narrows will need a passing threat to be able to run the ball. Munsey should be able to clear some inside running room even though the Narrows line will often be outsized. Mark it down. The losing streak will end this season, but a trip to the Division 1 West playoffs seems unlikely.

MOUNTAIN EMPIRE DISTRICT

18 DONTE PEOPLESGalax

BASSETTCoach: Jay Gilbert (eighth season)Record at Bassett: 53-41Last season: 3-8, 2-2 (lost in Region IV Division 4 first round)Returning offensive starters: 8Returning defensive starters: 9Players to watch: RB Chris Martin (5-9, 167, jr.), NT Desmon Hairston (6-0, 330, soph.), LB Eddie Bowman (6-0, 199, sr.), QB MacKenzie Lawson (6-0, 174, sr.), KR Daniel Martin (5-7, 163, sr.), RB-DB Tra Ross (5-8, 164, sr.), FB Dashaun Valentine (6-0, 207, sr.), DE Roger Woody (6-3, 264, sr.), TE-DE Ryan Wilkerson (6-2, 210, jr.), S Tay Ross (5-10, 159, jr.).2011 summary: Bassett finished third in the Piedmont and lost 24-10 in the first round of the Region IV Division 4 playoffs to Hidden Valley following a regular-season loss to the Titans. A four-game stretch of nondistrict games against Patrick Henry, Jefferson Forest, Christiansburg and Franklin County was brutal. Outlook: The Bengals should be improved with 17 returning starters. However, the nondistrict schedule is the same as last year’s and very difficult. Bassett has quite a few speedsters and runs the read-option. Valentine, the leading returning rusher and scorer after picking up 767 yards, joins Lawson, Martin and Tra Ross as offensive threats. Hairston is a space eater on defense and the double-team he frequently draws allows linebackers to get in and make plays. Bassett will be back in the playoffs and the Bengals could win a postseason game for the first time since 2006.

MAGNA VISTACoach: Joe Favero (fifth season)Record at Magna Vista: 29-18Last season: 11-1, 5-0 (lost in Region IV Division 4 final)Returning offensive starters: 1Returning defensive starters: 2Players to watch: RB-S Keon Mabin (6-2, 203, sr.), S Jalen Hairston (6-0, 171, jr.), OT Xavier Greenfield (6-0, 258, jr.), WR Brent Hankins (5-9, 143, jr.), WR Bryce Hankins (5-8, 152, jr.), LB Wesley Bethany (5-11, 178, sr.), DE Tyler Parcell (5-8, 217, sr.), LB Rodney Moore

(5-9, 201, sr.), LB Malik Adams (6-2, 215, jr.), QB Calin Jamison (5-11, 178, jr.).2011 summary: Magna Vista’s high-powered offense led to a perfect regular season, thanks in part to an outstanding senior year from QB Harvey Taylor, who set a Timesland career total offense record with more than 9,000 yards. Taylor, a walk-on at Old Dominion, passed for 1,786 yards and rushed for 1,476 more last year. Top target DeShaun Penn graduated after catching 42 passes. The Warriors beat Salem in overtime to reach the regional final, where they lost 46-12 to Christiansburg.Outlook: The Warriors must replace nearly every offensive starter. Look for less running out of the quarterback position and more involvement from the slot receivers. Bryce Hankins is a speedy threat out of the backfield and at receiver and Brent Hankins is a dangerous return man. Mabin and Hairston help lead a sound defense. Depth was added when several players including Adams transferred from Carlisle after the Chiefs couldn’t field a team. Magna Vista might still be the team to beat in the Piedmont. A playoff berth is a virtual certainty but a regional final might be too much to ask.

MARTINSVILLECoach: Bobby Dalton (fourth season)Record at Martinsville: 14-20Last season: 6-6, 3-1 (lost in Region IV Division 3 semifinal)Returning offensive starters: 6Returning defensive starters: 8Players to watch: OG-NT Tyshawn Williams (6-1, 290, sr.), SS Larry Perkins (6-4, 210, sr.), DT Darius Simington (6-4, 260, sr.), QB Brandon Carter (6-2, 180, jr.), RB Alberto Garcia (5-7, 200, sr.), TE Jontae Powell (6-2, 250, sr.), OG David Christy (6-0, 280, sr.), C Adam Thurman (5-10, 260, sr.), DE Montarius Hodge (6-1, 200, jr.), DE Taj Taylor (6-0, 220, jr.).2011 summary: Martinsville’s 6-6 record is a poor indicator of the season they had. They dropped their opening game to eventual Division 3 state champion Brookville, a pair to Cave Spring, and two games by eight or fewer points. However, Martinsville also won

games against Bassett, Tunstall and Carroll County by one score or less so those games could have very well gone the other way.Outlook: The Bulldogs lost QB Ishmael Hairston and DB-WR Damian Patterson, but they return enough starters to be dangerous in the Piedmont. All three leading rushers from 2011 are also gone. Simington, Williams, Hodge and Taylor give the Bulldogs good size along the defensive line. Williams, Christy and Thurman are capable of opening some good holes for Garcia to run through. Martinsville had mixed results in preseason scrimmages. Regardless of the Bulldogs’ regular-season record, they could be a threat in what shapes up to be a weaker region than it was last year.

PATRICK COUNTYCoach: Kenny Perry (first season)Last season: 0-10, 0-5 (did not make playoffs)Returning offensive starters: 3Returning defensive starters: 5Players to watch: RB Brian Drewery (5-6, 155, sr.), QB Tre Penn (6-1, 170, so.), LB Marquise Nowlin (6-1, 240, sr.), WR Meeche Dillard (5-6, 150, sr.), DT Brode Corns (6-2, 270, sr.), ATH Zack Tickle (5-11, 140, so.) DE Doug Nester (6-2, 210, jr.), LB Kody Katzer (6-0, 195, jr.), OT Alex Gomez (6-1, 280, jr.), WR LaWarren Dillard (6-3, 185, sr.)2011 summary: Patrick County went through another brutal year in 2011, failing to score in four games and averaging less than six points per game while surrendering over 40. Two opponents hit the 60-point mark. After back-to-back 0-10 seasons, Brad Dalton was replaced as head coach by Perry, a former player at North Carolina A&T,Outlook: The Cougars, staring at a 21-game losing streak, are completely rebuilding. First-team all-Piedmont LB Nowlin leads the Cougars on defense. Corns is a big, strong defensive tackle. Drewery is very quick and versatile, being able to play both running back and quarterback. Meeche Dillard is a quick receiver and LaWarren Dillard is a big target. Tickle is quick, athletic and versatile and could be a big contributor on offense. Patrick County has the tools to improve, but the nondistrict schedule has some very tough hurdles. One or two wins would rate as a success.

PIEDMONT DISTRICT 2011 STATSSCORING TDXPTFG PTSWright,C.Spring 29 4 0 178M.Jones,J.Forest 27 0 0 162X.Rodriguez,Grayson 24 4 0 148*C.Akers,Catholic 17 15 1 140Taylor,M.Vista 21 2 0 126Helton,Covington 19 8 0 122B.Kessinger,Giles 19 0 0 114Bishop,Salem 18 2 0 110B.Johnson,Chilhowie 17 4 0 106J.Moon,S.River 17 2 0 104T.Haynie,Glenvar 8 48 2 102Vaughan,Galax 16 0 0 96*Deer,Catholic 15 4 0 94Caudill,R.Retreat 15 0 0 90George,Galax 15 0 0 90J.Mabry,Glenvar 15 0 0 90Mitchell,Giles 15 0 0 90Snell,Christiansburg 15 0 0 90Dunbar,Craig 14 2 0 86E.Anderson,N.Cross 14 0 0 84Gunter,Carlisle 14 0 0 84Turpin,G.Wythe 14 0 0 84T.Fisher,Northside 13 0 0 78Richardson,Marion 13 0 0 78Wheeler,P.McCluer 13 0 0 78Young,G.Wythe 13 0 0 78Valentine,Bassett 12 2 0 74I.Hairston,Martinsville 12 0 0 72D.Harris,Floyd 12 0 0 72Dooley,Glenvar 11 0 0 66Tolley,G.Wythe 11 2 0 66Coleman,Carlisle 5 24 2 64Hawks,G.Wythe 0 53 3 62Brady,Galax 0 43 6 61Hamley,Christiansburg 0 49 4 61Abell,Rockbridge 10 0 0 60Lightfoot,Liberty 10 0 0 60Ollie,P.Henry 10 0 0 60Wagner,Marion 10 0 0 60Hash,Carroll 9 4 0 58S.Peoples,Galax 9 0 0 54ChanceTyree,Franklin 9 0 0 54Z.Williams,R.Retreat 9 0 0 54

RUSHING ATT YDS AVG GAVGWright,C.Spring 301 2055 6.8 205.5J.Moon,S.River 257 1733 6.8 173.3Helton,Covington 238 1726 7.3 172.6M.Jones,J.Forest 224 1482 6.6 148.2*Deer,Catholic 208 1437 6.9 130.6B.Kessinger,Giles 172 1348 7.8 134.8Taylor,M.Vista 178 1267 7.1 126.7Bishop,Salem 195 1263 6.5 126.3X.Rodriguez,Grayson 121 1256 10.4 125.6L.Wheeler,P.McCluer 179 1253 7.0 125.3B.Johnson,Chilhowie 198 1233 6.2 123.3E.Anderson,N.Cross 169 1127 6.7 125.2Zheng,Rockbridge 172 1124 6.5 112.4Vaughan,Galax 139 1111 8.0 111.1Abell,Rockbridge 138 1056 7.5 105.6*Akers,Catholic 133 1145 8.6 104.9Dunbar,Craig 148 992 6.7 99.2Horstmann,W.Byrd 183 986 5.4 98.6Tolley,G.Wythe 85 978 11.5 97.8Mitchell,Giles 106 963 9.1 96.3Richardson,Marion 147 958 6.5 95.8Snell,Christiansburg 111 936 8.4 93.6Turpin,G.Wythe 89 929 10.4 92.9JordanDaniels,Salem 164 924 5.6 92.4Hagins,Fleming 181 924 5.1 92.4ChanceTyree,Franklin 147 842 5.7 84.2D.Harris,Floyd 142 828 5.8 82.8Young,G.Wythe 61 815 13.4 81.5Brand,H.Valley 165 798 4.8 79.8David,BlandCo. 127 782 6.2 78.2Dooley,Glenvar 105 782 7.4 78.2Valentine,Bassett 152 767 5.1 76.7Robertson,Narrows 154 765 5.0 76.5Leonard,EMont 126 761 6.0 84.6F.Williams,Martinsville 126 751 6.0 75.1Whorley,P.Henry 118 747 6,3 74,7I.Hairston,Martinsville 136 746 5.5 74.6McClanahan,Pulaski 146 727 5.0 72.7Prince,P.Henry 110 725 6,6 72.5Conley,Chilhowie 94 709 7.5 78.9Mullins,Auburn 185 708 3.8 70.8ChrisTyree,S.River 68 679 9.9 67.9R.Rodriguez,F.Chiswell 126 673 5.3 67.3Caudill,R.Retreat 93 649 7.0 64.9S.Peoples,Galax 59 638 10.8 63.8Rigney,Pulaski 121 619 5.1 61.9Hill,W.Byrd 92 591 6.4 59.1Keys,Franklin 109 597 5.5 59.7ColtonAkers,Carlisle 109 566 5.2 62.9King,J.River 119 560 4.7 56.0Z.Williams,R.Retreat 90 550 5.9 55.0Fowler,J.Forest 122 549 4.5 54.9Carter,M.Vista 88 543 6.3 54.3Hodges,Carroll 106 539 5.1 53.9J.Mabry,Glenvar 90 537 5.9 53.7Ouellette,Craig 123 533 4.3 53.3Sisson,EMont 108 532 4.9 59.1Thompson,Botetourt 136 513 3.8 51.3Hash,Carroll 65 507 7.8 50.7

RECEIVING REC YDS TD AVGGunter,Carlisle 46 877 12 19.1T.Haynie,Glenvar 39 800 8 20.5Nicely,Alleghany 39 478 7 12.2Murray,N.Cross 37 728 8 19.7Hollandsworth,Floyd 34 503 5 14.8Penn,M.Vista 34 713 7 21.0MikeRodgers,Grayson 33 750 6 22.7Quesenberry,Auburn 32 600 3 18.8Stevers,J.River 32 504 1 15.8Fisher,Northside 31 696 10 22.5Gingrich,J.Forest 31 467 2 15.1K.Kessinger,Alleghany 31 436 5 14.1Gullion,Marion 30 532 3 17.7Edwards,Salem 27 364 2 13.5Gravely,F.Chiswell 27 623 4 23,1B.Johnson,Chilhowie 27 489 3 18.1Cundiff,N.Cross 26 179 2 6.9George,Galax 25 561 11 22.4Kite,H.Valley 25 327 2 13.1Worrell,Floyd 25 390 4 15.6Coleman,Carlisle 22 259 4 11.8Foster,R.Retreat 22 302 4 27.4Helm,Salem 22 437 4 19.9Parsell,Auburn 21 173 1 8.2Phillips,Botetourt 20 334 2 16.7

PASSING C-A-I TDPCT YDSHardister,Northside 105-177-4 17 59.3 1740Bradley,Alleghany 127-233-5 23 54.5 1669Weaver,N.Cross 127-237-10 15 53.6 1574Taylor,M.Vista 72-144-4 14 50.0 1559Wagner,Marion 88-181-13 17 48.6 1515C.Mabry,F.Chiswell 85-142-10 13 59.8 1489J.Mabry,Glenvar 78-120-2 16 65.5 1268King,J.River 86-201-10 7 42.8 1174MaxRodgers,Grayson 54-119-2 13 45.3 1177Mitchell,Carlisle 78-142-3 15 55.0 1163M.Jones,J.Forest 66-161-12 8 41.0 1144Underwood,Floyd 81-150-9 10 54.0 1133Prince,P.Henry 70-121-5 9 57.9 1005Z.Williams,R.Retreat 41-84-5 12 48.8 992Spencer,Auburn 71-190-22 8 37.4 984Simonic,H.Valley 84-175-7 12 48.0 939Cline,Botetourt 67-145-7 4 46.2 922Hill,Salem 56-90-3 6 62.2 850Pack,Galax 46-90-2 11 51.1 843Valentine,Bassett 71-150-7 0 47.3 800Helton,Covington 43-103-3 9 41.7 764Lundy,Carroll 56-120-4 7 46.7 755Motley,Christiansburg 39-74-2 11 52.7 709T.Robertson,Bath 52-112-11 7 43.0 705Abell,Rockbridge 52-93-3 7 55.9 697Marshall,Radford 41-73-4 7 56.1 665Ellis,Franklin 32-70-4 10 45.7 659Willis,G.Wythe 29-53-6 9 54.7 593Kingery,C.Spring 49-98-10 4 50.0 584I.Hairston,Martinsville 42-101-2 4 41.2 551

PUNTING NOYDS AVGG.Lee,Giles 11 526 47.8Coleman,Carlisle 18 818 45.4Hawks,G.Wythe 11 460 41.8Z.Atwood,Bassett 44 1768 40.2Fields,EMont 33 1247 38.8Conte,P.Henry 22 849 38.6Sims,J.Forest 32 1225 38.2Morgan,Christiansburg 18 694 38.2Johnston,Pulaski 46 1754 38.1Quinn,Botetourt 48 1824 38.0Rayburn,Franklin 28 1068 38.0Weaver,N.Cross 31 1159 37.4Abell,Rockbridge 19 703 37.0Wrights,Bath 34 1290 36.9Findley,Radford 21 747 35.6Hash,Carroll 31 1100 35.5Jackson,Northside 22 781 35.5Foster,R.Retreat 13 458 35.2

INTERCEPTIONSJennings,S.River 7Baltazar,G.Wythe 6Pinigis,J.Forest 6Wilson,Rockbridge 6Bilbrey,Grayson 5T.Haynie,Glenvar 5Helton,Covington 5Rhudy,Grayson 5Wagner,Marion 5

TACKLES IND AST TOTAtwood,G.Wythe 103 75 140.5Sickey,Floyd 108 58 136.0Simpson,Alleghany 101 45 123.5Meador,W.Byrd 93 49 117.5Hagins,Fleming 84 63 115.5Witcher,M.Vista 85 52 111.0AdamDoll-Hennis,Rockbridge 81 54 108.0Ellis,S.River 78 60 108.0Dooley,Glenvar 83 45 105.5Kite,H.Valley 83 42 104.0White,Craig 81 38 100.0Hodges,Carroll 77 45 99.5Vance,Chilhowie 78 34 95.0Long,Pulaski 56 76 94.0Scott,Christiansburg 69 42 90.0Youngblood,Rockbridge 58 63 89.5Wagner,Marion 70 35 87.5Bowman,Bassett 70 33 86.5King,J.River 45 82 86.0Allen,Pulaski 41 86 84.0H.Jones,Martinsville 66 36 84.0Rigney,Pulaski 56 56 84.0O’Berry,Radford 57 53 83.5C.Harris,Covington 70 25 83.0R.Hairston,Martinsville 59 46 82.0Ilardo,Blacksburg 69 26 82.0Shuler,Chilhowie 75 14 82.0White,S.River 63 43 81.5Grant,Blacksburg 66 30 81.0Robertson,Narrows 44 73 80.5Wynn,G.Wythe 56 44 78.0Deacon,J.River 31 92 77.0Stinespring,Bath 57 40 77.0Benitez,Radford 45 63 76.5Flici,H.Valley 56 41 76.5A.Harris,Rockbridge 60 29 74.5King,Pulaski 48 53 74.5Mabin,M.Vista 62 25 74.5Bryant,C.Spring 43 61 73.5Unroe,Alleghany 66 15 73.5Alley,Craig 56 34 73.0Snavely,G.Wythe 50 45 72.5Turpin,G.Wythe 50 45 72.5*Deer,Catholic 60 23 71.5Richardson,Marion 57 28 71.0Kelly,R.Retreat 55 31 70.5Muse,Northside 57 22 68.0Nelson,Giles 52 31 67.5

SACKSWynn,G.Wythe 13.0Noble,Glenvar 11.0Harris,Rockbridge 10.0Stone,Fleming 9.5Saunders,Radford 7.0Reiter,C.Spring 6.0Smith,N.Cross 6.0

TACKLES FOR LOSSShuler,Chilhowie 27.0Stone,Fleming 22.0Caudill,R.Retreat 21.0J.Atwood,G.Wythe 20.0Deacon,J.River 20.0Reiter,C.Spring 20.0Wynn,G.Wythe 20.0Hagins,Fleming 19.0Dooley,Glenvar 18.0Hodges,Carroll 18.0O’Berry,Radford 18.0Muse,Northside 17.0Parsons,Galax 16.5Mesadieu,P.Henry 16.0

THURSDAY, AUGUST 23, 2012 THE ROANOKE TIMES 72012 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALLTHURSDAY, AUGUST 23, 2012 THE ROANOKE TIMES 72012 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL

AUBURNCoach: Jack Turner (first season)Last season: 0-10, 0-5 (did not make playoffs)Returning offensive starters: 9Returning defensive starters: 5Players to watch: QB-CB Gabe Spencer (5-9, 165, jr.), OT-DL Michael Hinkley (6-4, 265, jr.), SB-CB Nick Parsell (5-8, 155, jr.), G-DT Josh Fleenor (6-3, 240, soph.), WR-LB Luke Wilson (5-7, 150, jr.), FB-LB Justin Craft (5-11, 160, soph.), TE-DE Jacob Howard (6-2, 190, sr.), OT-DE Caleb Harless (6-0, 200, jr.), LB Brandon Akers (5-10, 155, jr.), RB-LB Dustin Simpkins (6-0, 190, sr.).2011 summary: Auburn suffered through a long spirit-crushing grind as a three-year losing streak stretched to 29 games. The injury-riddled Eagles were shut out four times and held to single digits on three more occasions. The defense was worse, yielding an average of 50.5 points per game. The season ended with fewer than 20 able-bodied players available. Coach Phil Collett resigned in December and took a head coaching job in North Carolina.Outlook: The Eagles are learning Football 101 under Turner, a former head coach at Pulaski County and an assistant last year at Franklin County. Nobody did any bragging, but Auburn got the best of two scrimmages. Still, there’s an awful long way to go. The new coach has made a solid show of keeping his well-known intensity on the slow burn. Spencer passed for 984 yards and eight TDs, but under duress he threw 22 interceptions and completed just 37 percent. Do not look for him to throw 190 passes in Turner’s offense. Hinkley is a developing powerhouse up front. Auburn needs to focus on winning one game then go from there.

EASTERN MONTGOMERYCoach: Mark Poston (seventh season)Record at Eastern Montgomery: 38-28Last season: 3-7, 1-4 (did not make playoffs)Returning offensive starters: 6Returning defensive starters: 6Players to watch: QB James Fields (6-4, 190, sr.), RB Darryl Manns (5-8, 140, fr.), OL Michael Early (5-10, 250, sr.), OL Chris Yarbrough (6-1, 190, sr.), WR-S J.T. Shrader (6-0, 160, jr.), WR-CB Ron Ford (6-0, 170, soph.), WR-CB Josh Copen (6-1, 170, sr.), OT-DL Eli Motley (6-4, 300, sr.), LB Troy Rucker (5-7, 160, sr.), MLB Shane Deweese (6-1, 215, soph.).2011 summary: Eastern Montgomery might have surprised some people with a three-win season, given the graduation losses from the 2010 state Division 1 runner-up team. EastMont beat the teams it was supposed to, including Narrows, Bland County and Auburn. The Mustangs also gave a good account of themselves in a 27-21 loss to Bath County and a 34-22 setback to Covington, both D1 playoff teams.Outlook: The Mustangs will struggle against the strong teams again. An early indication was a scrimmage against Grayson County, a superior opponent in size, athletic ability, and speed. The Mustangs will be similarly outmanned against other teams from the big schools, but there’s nothing new about that. History says EastMont will rise to the occasion when playing enrollment peers in Region C. Fields has a chance to have a nice season at QB while Manns figures to makes some exciting plays before he’s through. Two teams with three wins made the Division 1 West playoffs last year. Four victories for EastMont might be enough.

FLOYD COUNTYCoach: Winfred Beale (32nd season)Record at Floyd County: 191-133-4Last season: 3-7, 2-3 (did not make playoffs)Returning offensive starters: 8Returning defensive starters: 7Players to watch: RB-OLB Dorian Harris (5-11, 217, sr.), QB-DB Gus Underwood (6-0, 178, sr.), TE-DE Tyler Vaught (6-3, 197, sr.), SE-DB Matt Barry (5-9, 148, jr.), G-NG Ricky Lawrence (5-11, 291, sr.), FL-DB Cole Worrell (5-10, 171, sr.), HB-DB Vinny Kuchenbuch (5-9, 182, sr.), C-DL Ricky Burnette (5-8, 177, sr.), OG-LB Brent Webster (5-11, 198, sr.), LB Tristan Vest (5-9, 167, jr.).2011 summary: F loyd County ’s season was a disappointment. The Buffaloes won none of their big games, going 0-7 against two state runners-up (Christiansburg, Galax) along with Giles, Radford, Glenvar, George Wythe, and Fort Chiswell. Inconsistent offensive line play, a problem in recent seasons, was again an issue. Harris, one of Timesland’s top backs in his first two seasons, dropped off to 828 yards and 12 TDs in 10 games.Outlook: The Buffaloes should be improved. Underwood passed for 1,133 yards last year and is capable of bigger numbers. Fifteen starting positions returning are more than Floyd has featured in many years. The offensive line, which has been accustomed to blocking in the spread offense, has to set the tone. If Harris has room to operate, the Buffaloes could be a factor in the Three Rivers race. The passing game is a threat thanks to a deep receiving corps, but if Floyd can’t run the football, any shot at one of the 16 playoff berths in a stacked Division 2 West field will be a mirage.

GILESCoach: Jeff Williams (fifth season)Record at Giles: 27-17Last season: 10-2, 5-0 (lost in Group A Division 2 second round)Returning offensive starters: 5Returning defensive starters: 4

Players to watch: SS-RB Dusty Boggess (5-11, 163, sr.), RB-DB Ian Mann (6-0, 178, sr.), RB-DB Garrett Lee 6-1, 181, sr.), BB-LB Chad Randel (6-0, 180, sr.), OG-DT Kearsley Dillon (5-11, 240, sr.), OT-DT Jared Farmer (6-2, 245, sr.), TE-LB Logan Smith (6-0, 208, sr.), TE-DE Cody Rhodes (6-4, 252, jr.), OL-DT Brad Lipes (5-9, 244, jr.), OG-NG Brody Dunford (5-9, 165, jr.)2011 summary: Giles had an outstanding season by any measuring stick. Wins included a Three Rivers sweep. The Spartans threw an early scare into Christiansburg, and ultimately fell 27-7 to eventual Division 2 state champ Gretna. Potential RB Ethan Mitchell, who ran for 1,244 yards and 18 TDs as a junior, transferred to Group AAA Brooke Point.Outlook: The Spartans have a deep and athletic backfield led by Mann, a talented track and field hurdler. Dillon is one of the strongest players ever in a program known for its weight room stars. The major question is how physical the new defense will be. Lee, who averaged 47.8 yards per punt on just 12 kicks, also is an excellent blocker in the single-wing. He will take over the place-kicking duties from graduated Zach Keaton, who made 56 of 56 PATs last year. With the Radford game at home this year, Giles is a prohibitive favorite in the Three Rivers race and a good bet to advance further in the Division 2 West playoffs.

GLENVARCoach: Kevin Clifford (sixth season)Record at Glenvar: 28-23Last season: 6-5, 3-2 (lost in Group A Division 2 first round)Returning offensive starters: 5

Returning defensive starters: 5Players to watch: RB-LB Ean Cole (5-11, 190 sr.), RB-LB Bradley Muse (5-9, 175, jr.), QB-DB Levi Mullins (5-10, 165, jr.), WR-DB Jeremy Martin (5-8, 155, jr.), WR-DB Markel Jones (5-10, 150, sr.), WR-LB Kyle Clifford (5-9, 165, jr.), WR-DB Shaquille Bonds (5-11, 160, sr.), OL-DL Jason Ford (5-11, 260, jr.), OL-DL Sean Maloney (6-3, 255, sr.), OL-DL Tristian Crockett (5-11, 220, soph.)2011: Glenvar had yet another injury-plagued season, losing substantial minutes from key players. Still, the Highlanders made the playoffs for the first time since 2005. After outscoring the last two regular-season foes 126-6, the reward was a losing rematch at Giles. Graduation took RB-DE Seth Dooley, now at Virginia Tech, and star QB Jacob Mabry.Outlook: The Highlanders hope continued emphasis on conditioning and weight training will pay dividends. The return of 10 starters indicates a measure of stability is still in place. Bonds (23 catches) is a big-play target for new QB Mullins. Depth at WR with Martin, Jones and Clifford — the coach’s son — will be a major plus. Size and ability at RB with Cole and Muse enables an attack both between the tackles and on the flanks. Glenvar has yet to make the major breakthrough as a program but has nevertheless evolved into a perennial postseason contender. A second straight playoff trip isn’t out of the question.

RADFORDCoach: Matthew Saunders (sixth season)Record at Radford: 40-20

Last season: 8-4, 4-1 (lost in Group A Division 1 second round)Returning offensive starters: 5Returning defensive starters: 5Players to watch: OL-DL Cody Morgan (6-1, 270, sr.), OL-DL Eric Benitez (5-10, 210, jr.), QB-LB Hunter Marshall (5-11, 180, sr.), WR-CB R.J. Jordan (5-11, 160, jr.), WR-DB William Minter (5-10, 180, sr.), PK-P Caleb Findley (6-0, 160, sr.), WR-CB Marcus Finley (5-10, 155, fr.), OL-DL Kenny McPeak (6-0, 265, sr.), WR-DB D’Andre Cook (5-10, 175, jr.), C-DL Jordan Wesley (6-2, 315, sr.).2011 summary: Radford put together a six-game winning streak in the middle of the season but lacked the same consistency down the stretch. The Bobcats led Giles 17-7 before losing 21-17 at home in the TRD title game. Radford lost two big games to George Wythe, including 22-10 in the state Division 1 quarterfinals. The Bobcats offset a 43-0 loss to Galax with close wins over Pulaski County, Virginia High, Glenvar and Giles.Outlook: The Bobcats have potential starting with the return of Marshall at QB, where he passed for 798 yards. The offensive line led by Morgan, Wesley and Benitez is big and physical. Carter, Jordan and Cook each have speed and power. Defense could be the key. The Bobcats have to be better than last year when they couldn’t get the big stops when they needed them. An interesting player to watch on that unit is Minter, who has had many ebbs and flows in his career but led the team with nine TDs. Findley is an ace in the hole in a close game. Radford certainly will be one of the 16 teams in the Division 1 West playoffs.

THREE RIVERS DISTRICT

8 WILLIAM MINTERRadford

20 DORIAN HARRISFloyd County

CHILHOWIECoach: Larry Russell (12th season)Record at Chilhowie: 80-40Last season: 6-6, 3-2 (lost in Group A Division 1 second round)Returning offensive starters: 5Returning defensive starters: 4Players to watch: QB-S Dylan Thomas (6-1, 160, sr.), WR-DB Reid Sturgill (6-2, 170, sr.), HB-DE Buddy Brooks (6-1, 175, jr.), HB-LB Justin Jones (5-10, 190, jr.), PK-P Derek Farris (5-9, 150, sr.), FB-LB Bryan Vance (5-10, 170, sr.), G-LB Ben Whitley (5-11, 220, sr.), C-DT Dalton Snider (5-10, 230, sr.), TE-LB Hunter Phipps (6-0, 190, sr.), TE-LB Trevor Austin (6-0, 180, sr.).2011 summary: Chilhowie was nothing of not resilient. In the wake of a 55-10 pasting by George Wythe in Game 8, the Warriors rebounded to play their best ball of the year. The high point of three-straight strong outings was a comeback from a 31-0 halftime deficit for a 39-38 playoff win at Rural Retreat. Chilhowie was crunched 55-7 by eventual state champ Clintwood the next week, leaving Russell with twice as many wins as losses in his tenure.Outlook: The Warriors look to be strong up front. The big question is who will replace Brett Johnson, who rushed for 1,476 yards and caught 30 passes for 516 yards. Jones has

the physical good to get the job done. Thomas started the second half of the season at QB. Sturgill is back after catching 15 passes. Chilhowie has two assets that are not immediately obvious. One is a well-stocked roster, one of Timesland’s deepest. The Warriors need a big year from Farris, who was 22 of 27 last year on PATs. Don’t look for Chilhowie to challenge George Wythe for the Hogoheegee title, but a trip to the Division 1 West playoffs is a good bet.

GEORGE WYTHECoach: H.S. Ingo (fourth season)Record at George Wythe: 27-9Last season: 12-1, 5-0 (lost in Group A Division 1 quarterfinal)Returning offensive starters: 6Returning defensive starters: 6Players to watch: TE-DE Hardy Lester (6-5, 225, sr.), WR-DB Isaac Baltazaar (6-2, 150, sr.), QB-DB Alex Willis (6-1, 170, sr.), OG Jacob Deane (5-10, 215, sr.), C-DT Neil Pressley (5-9, 275, sr.), OG-DT Chase Altizer (5-11, 220, sr.), RB-LB Justin Snavely (5-10, 205, sr.), RB-LB Jordan Atwood (5-11, 205, sr.), RB-LB Trey Skeens (6-0, 180, soph.), RB-DB Jalen France (6-0, 160, sr.).2011 summary: George Wythe captured its fifth straight Hogoheegee title, winning its first 12 games before falling

23-13 at home to eventual state Division 1 state champion Clintwood. The Maroons were explosive offensively and stingy defensively, topping 30 points scored 10 different times with a high of 73 in a playoff hammering of Twin Springs. Aside from Clintwood, Wythe begins 2012 with a 15-game regular-season winning streak.Outlook: The Maroons are the favorite to win another Hogoheegee title. Three backs who all topped the 1,000-yard mark graduated, but Wythe always has replacements. Lester, who has committed to Richmond, can dominate as a blocker or receiver and is ultra-solid defensively. Willis is a veteran QB whose productive season last year was clouded by a three-interception performance in the playoff loss. He’ll have plenty of throwing targets this time around. Lester and Baltazaar can beat defenses short or long. The Maroons won’t put up staggering point totals this time, but an extended postseason run is highly possible.

RURAL RETREATCoach: Christopher Moore (third season)Record at Rural Retreat: 12-10Last season: 8-3, 4-1 (lost in Group A Division 1 first round)Returning offensive starters: 5Returning defensive starters: 8

Players to watch: RB-LB T.C. Caudill 6-0, 170, sr.), RB-CB Dominique Epps (6-0, 170, sr.), DE-TE Jordan Kelly (6-3, 250, sr.), OL-DL Hunter Addison (6-1, 230, jr.), LB-TE Devan Wilson (6-1, 175, jr.), WR-CB Heath Martin (6-1, 150, sr.), WR-S Tyler Holliday (5-7, 130, sr.), TE-LB Travis Anderson (6-2, 210, sr.), QB J.B. Wright (5-11, 160, sr.), TE-LB Jay Linkous (6-0, 240, sr.).2011 summary: Rural Retreat put itself in position to play for the Hogoheegee title, but the Indians were smashed 42-6 by George Wythe in the regular-season finale. The Indians appeared to have regrouped for the playoffs, taking a 31-0 lead over Chilhowie in a first-round game at home. Instead, the Indians became victims of one of the greatest comebacks in VHSL history as Chilhowie rebounded for a 39-38 victory.Outlook: The Indians have a promising mix of veterans and newcomers. Caudill led the team in rushing with 649 yards, netting 7.0 yards per carry. Epps brings some explosiveness and big play capability to the attack. There are no shortage of skill position players. A lack of experience and just average size up front could be an issue. Kelly led the team in tackles last year, while Caudill had 42 solo stops. The program’s outstanding tradition has always been a confidence booster for the players. The defense looked leaky in a benefit game. Even so, pencil the Indians in for at least six wins and a Division 1 West playoff berth.

HOGOHEEGEE DISTRICT

8 THE ROANOKE TIMES THURSDAY, AUGUST 23, 20122012 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL8 THE ROANOKE TIMES THURSDAY, AUGUST 23, 20122012 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL

BATH COUNTYCoach: Will Fields (11th season)Record at Bath County: 76-45Last season: 5-7, 2-2 (lost in Group A Division 1 second round)Returning offensive starters: 3Returning defensive starters: 5Players to watch: RB-LB Christian Woodzell (6-0, 220, jr.), RB-DB Raymond Miller (5-10, 190, sr.), OL-DT Adam Neil (5-11, 215, sr.), WR-DB Chris Nichols (6-2, 200, sr.), WR-DB Lucas Hodge (5-9, 150, sr.), RB-DB Ben Wolfe (5-9, 150, jr.), OL-DL Walter Mines (5-10, 205, sr.), RB-DE Tyler Deeds (5-10, 200, sr.), DB-RB Lukas Wells (6-0, 175, sr.), OL-DL Chase Altizer (6-1, 230, sr.).2011 summary: Bath County came on strong in the second half of the season with a 22-19 loss to Covington in the sixth game seeming to turn things around. The Chargers qualified for the Division 1 East playoffs with the reward being a five-hour bus ride to Franklin to open the playoffs. The Chargers played one of their best games of the year winning 20-12 before returning to this side of the state for a 29-9 loss to Covington.Outlook: The Chargers return a host of running backs, but none of them averaged 50 yards per game rushing last year. Last year’s top receivers, Aaron Newmarker and Ryan Plecker, graduated along with QB Tyler Robertson. Mines and Altizer will have to open some holes up front until newcomers adjust to their roles. Woodzell is a power back who can run inside. This is a power team well suited for the late season cold of the Alleghany Highlands. Because four victories might be enough to make the East Division playoffs, the Chargers ought to emerge as a playoff contender again assuming key players stay healthy.

COVINGTONCoach: Rod Tenney (first season)Last season: 9-4, 4-0 (lost in Group A Division 1 quarterfinal)Returning offensive starters: 7Returning defensive starters: 8Players to watch: TB-CB Troy Helton (5-8, 160, sr.), FB Luke Moye (5-9, 185, soph.), BB-LB Colton Harris (5-10, 180, sr.), WB-CB Brandon Phillips (5-11, 160, jr.), TE-OLB Luke Crawford (6-0, 205, sr.), OT-DT Derek Dressler (6-2, 270, soph.), DT-OG Darryl Tolson (6-2, 225, sr.), TE Colton Howard (5-7, 130, jr.), LB Ashton Oyler (6-0, 150, soph.), OT K.J. Barber (6-0, 225, jr.).2011 summary: Covington won seven of its last eight, including rematches with Parry McCluer and Bath County in the Division 1 East playoffs. The one loss was a VHSL-record 88-8 debacle in the state quarterfinal loss to Sussex Central. The Cougars won the Pioneer title by the narrowest of margins, edging Bath 22-19 and James River 50-48 in their two biggest regular-season games. Head coach Steve Dressler resigned after the season.Outlook: Tenney was promoted after previous head coaching stops at Bath County and Craig County. He knows the district. Tenney has installed the single-wing offense he learned at Bath, which is bound to have growing pains. No matter what, Helton will get the ball. He has rushed for more than 4,000 yards in three years, including 2,003 last year in 13 games. It might be hard to resist the temptation to simply run Helton behind the tandem of Dressler and Tolson. Covington will be difficult to unseat as the Pioneer champion.

CRAIG COUNTYCoach: Mark McPherson (ninth season)Record at Craig County: 25-55

Last season: 3-7, 0-4 (did not make playoffs)Returning offensive starters: 8Returning defensive starters: 8Players to watch: QB-DB Cody Dunbar (5-8, 165, jr.), RB-DB Matt Ouellette (5-9, 175, sr.), WR-TE Zach Towers (6-2, 190, sr.), OL-DL Jesse Crowder (6-4, 270, sr.), PK-P Jefferson Lee (5-6, 175, sr.), CB-QB Matthew Bryant (6-1, 165, sr.), OG-DL Austin Bunnell (6-2, 260, sr.), OL-DL Dylan McCallister (5-9, 225, sr.), C-DL Andrew Newby (5-11, 240, jr.), FB-LB Michael Brookman (6-1, 260, jr.), WR-DB Levi Helm (6-1, 170, jr.).2011 summary: Craig County had a tough year, but the good news is only four seniors were lost to graduation. The Rockets beat the teams they were expected to handle, including winless Narrows and Auburn, but struggled against stronger opponents. In losing six of their last seven games, the Rockets were shut out three times and they scored one TD in another game, finishing in last place in the Pioneer.Outlook: The Rockets have two good backs in Dunbar and Ouellette. Dunbar returns at QB after rushing for 992 yards and 15 TDs and passing for 485 yards. Ouellette ran for 533 yards and seven TDs. Expect a return to the I-formation after the team dabbled in the wing-T and the spread. The defense will change to a four-man front designed to tie up blockers and allow an athletic linebacker corps and secondary to make plays. Posting the third winning season in school history probably is a stretch, but Craig has a solid shot at netting four victories and qualifying for the Division 1 East playoffs.

JAMES RIVERCoach: Philip King (10th season)Record at James River: 42-50Last season: 4-6, 3-1 (did not make playoffs)Returning offensive starters: 4Returning defensive starters: 6Players to watch: QB-DB Kyle King (5-11, 165, sr.), LB-RB Owen Deacon (6-0, 210, sr.), WR-DB Dylan Flint (6-0, 145, sr.), RB-LB Chris Moore (5-8, 145, sr.), WR-LB Dylan Bryan 6-2, 180, sr.), LB-OL Cody Dyer (5-9, 180, jr.), WR-DB Chase Haynes ( (5-9, 150, jr.), OL-DL Cort Clark (6-2, 225, jr.), OL-DL Tyler Cook (5-11, 180, sr.), RB-DL Dakota Harlow (5-10, 160, jr.).2011 summary: James River closed strong, winning their last three, but it was too little too late to qualify for the 16-team Division 2 West playoffs. The two biggest problems all year were inconsistency and porous defense. In all six defeats, James River gave up at least 35 points. The Knights gave up just 19 points in their last three games combined, capped by a 37-0 rout of Craig County in the season finale.Outlook: The Knights run a spread offense led by King, who passed for 1,174 yards and ran for 560. He threw more interceptions than TDs and completed just 42 percent of his throws. Moore and Deacon give the Knights a nice inside-outside package. Stevers averaged almost 16 yards on 32 catches last year. All five offensive linemen must be replaced. Defensively, James River must improve. King led the team with 45 unassisted tackles at free safety, which indicates ball carriers were breaking through the initial defense. As usual, James River likely will have to win the Pioneer title to make the playoffs, which could be within reach.

PARRY McCLUERCoach: Mike Craft (second season)Record at Parry McCluer: 4-7Last season: 4-7, 1-3 (lost in Group A Division 1 first round)Returning offensive starters: 4Returning defensive starters: 6Players to watch: OG-DT Trevor Roberts (5-10, 235, sr.), OT-DL Blake Goff (5-11, 220, sr.) , HB-LB Brandon Long (5-6, 160, sr.), HB-LB Raheem Dawson (6-2, 195, soph.), FB-DL Patrick Knick (5-10,215, sr.), C-DL Tyler George (6-2, 240, soph.), E-DB Gunner Beverley (5-11, 170, sr.), E-LB Daquan Dawson (6-0, 170, jr.), QB-DB Morgan Henderson (5-11, 185, jr.), QB-DB Josh Perry (6-2, 170, jr.).2011 summary: Parry McCluer qualified for the postseason for the first time since 2004 as Craft carried the tag of interim head coach. The longtime assistant was named full-time head coach after the season. After losing to Covington in the regular season finale, Parry McCluer went back to Casey Field the next week to open the Division 1 East playoffs, losing 28-12. Senior Lucas Wheeler rushed for 1,253 yards, averaging 7.0 yards per carry.Outlook: The Fighting Blues had a preseason QB battle between Perry, a better drop-back passer; and Henderson, a superior runner. It is possible that Parry McCluer could use both juniors this year, tailoring the position to suit the situation. Parry McCluer has switched from a 4-3 defense to a 3-5 in order to take advantage of a large crop of aggressive athletes. Perry will handle the place-kicking and punting. Dawson started on defense last year and played a lot the last three games at running back after Wheeler was injured. PM earned a No. 13 playoff seed in the East with a losing record. Based on that, a postseason return is probable.

ROANOKE CATHOLICCoach: Bob Price (10th season)Record at Roanoke Catholic: 55-35Last season: 8-4 (lost in VIS Division 4 first round)Returning offensive starters: 5Returning defensive starters: 6Players to watch: RB-DB Patrick Macher (6-1, 165, sr.), RB Nick Fittz (5-11, 175, soph.), QB-DB David Hart (5-10, 144, jr.), RB-S Alex Wall (6-2, 170, sr.), FB-DE Cameron Thompson (6-0, 187, soph.), OG-MLB Ben Price (5-10, 215, sr.), OT-DT Tommy Perini (5-11, 210, jr.), OG-DE Nicholas Ruble (5-10, 194, jr.), TE-OLB Nick Nester (6-3, 198, sr.), OT-DT Sean Bowers (6-0, 235, sr.).2011 summary: Roanoke Catholic was in a familiar position at the end of last season as the Celtics advanced to the playoffs again. Just like several seasons before, they were eliminated in the first round. Seniors Sean Deer and Christian Akers both rushed for more 1,200 yards, good for 90 percent of the team’s offense behind All-VIS tackle Paul Blanton.Outlook: The Celtics are down to just 20 players after an injury to returning wideout Jack Pilgreen in its first scrimmage. He could miss the first half of the season. It is a young group that needs to come together quickly and stay healthy if the Celtics want to return to the playoffs this year. It is going to be a tough chore for Catholic as they have lost one team on their schedule and could lose a second dropping them to eight regular season games. If that is the case, making the first round of the playoffs could be considered a successful season and would be a great confidence boost for the young group.

NORTH CROSSCoach: Stephen Alexander (third season)Record at North Cross: 16-7Last season: 8-3, 2-1 in VIC (won VIS Division III championship)Returning offensive starters: 1Returning defensive starters: 1Players to watch: RB-OLB Evan Anderson (6-0, 195, sr.), OLB Branden Taylor (6-1, 210, sr.), QB Max Revercomb (6-0, 175, soph.), RB-LB Trayvon McGhee (5-10, 190, jr.), LT-DE Eddie Smith (6-3, 230, sr.), CB Harrison Call (5-11, 170, jr.), WR-FS Penn Draper (6-0, 170, jr.), C-LB Sterling Moskal (5-10, 185, soph.), RB-SS Andrew Proctor (5-10, 175, jr.), TE-DE Jimmy Coles (6-0, 205, jr.).2011 summary: North Cross captured the VIS Division III title by getting on a roll late with the help of a veteran offensive line. Anderson rushed for 1,389 yards and 18 TDs, while Kentucky baseball recruit Thomas Weaver threw four TD passes in the state final against a Norfolk Christian team that had four UVa signees. Taylor made second-team All-VIS on defense for a team that won eight of their last nine games.Outlook: The Raiders have left the VIC for the Charlottesville-based Old Dominion Conference. A young offense line led by Smith and Moskal must open holes for Anderson. Taylor will lead an athletic back seven on defense that may have to carry the team until the offense catches up. Repeating a VIS title will be big longshot as the roster numbers were so low that the Raiders had to cancel a preseason scrimmage against Radford. Two VIS champions are part of a tough schedule that could make a return to the playoffs a difficult proposition.

PIONEER DISTRICT

INDEPENDENTOLD DOMINION CONFERENCE

7 KYLE KINGJames River

NORTH CROSS2011 VIS champs

2011 STANDINGS

2011 PLAYOFFS

WESTERN VALLEY DISTRICT OVERALL

x-FranklinCounty 4 0 9 3PatrickHenry 3 1 7 3GeorgeWashington 2 2 6 5WilliamFleming 1 3 1 9HalifaxCounty 0 4 2 8

BLUE RIDGEx-Northside 5 0 11 1RockbridgeCounty 4 1 9 3StauntonRiver 2 3 7 4WilliamByrd 2 3 3 7Alleghany 1 4 4 6LordBotetourt 1 4 3 7

PIEDMONTx-MagnaVista 4 0 11 1Martinsville 3 1 6 6Bassett 2 2 3 8Tunstall 1 3 5 7PatrickCounty 0 4 0 10

RIVER RIDGEy-Christiansburg 4 1 12 2y-Salem 4 1 8 4CaveSpring 3 2 9 4HiddenValley 3 2 7 5PulaskiCounty 1 4 1 10Blacksburg 0 5 1 9

SEMINOLEx-Brookville 6 0 14 0JeffersonForest 4 2 9 3AmherstCounty 4 2 6 6Heritage 3 3 6 5Rustburg 3 3 5 6E.C.Glass 1 5 3 7Liberty 0 6 1 9

SOUTHWESTx-Richlands 4 0 11 1Marion 3 1 4 7CarrollCounty 2 2 3 7Abingdon 1 3 3 8Tazewell 0 4 0 10

VALLEYx-Broadway 6 0 12 0Harrisonburg 4 2 8 3FortDefiance 4 2 6 5RobertE.Lee 3 3 7 5Spotswood 2 4 3 7TurnerAshby 1 5 1 9Waynesboro 1 5 1 9

HOGOHEEGEEx-GeorgeWythe 5 0 12 1RuralRetreat 4 1 8 3Chilhowie 3 2 6 6Holston 2 3 3 8Northwood 1 4 2 8PH-GladeSpring 0 5 1 9

MOUNTAIN EMPIREx-Galax 5 0 14 1GraysonCounty 4 1 10 2Graham 2 2 5 6FortChiswell 2 3 5 5BlandCounty 1 4 2 8Narrows 0 5 0 10

PIONEERx-Covington 4 0 9 4JamesRiver 3 1 4 6BathCounty 2 2 5 7ParryMcCluer 1 3 4 7CraigCounty 0 4 3 7

THREE RIVERSx-Giles 5 0 10 2Radford 4 1 8 4Glenvar 3 2 6 5FloydCounty 2 3 3 7EasternMontgomery1 4 3 7Auburn 0 5 0 10

VIRGINIA INDEPENDENTx-LibertyChristian 3 0 11 0NorthCross 2 1 8 3BlueRidge 1 2 6 4HargraveMilitary 0 3 4 5z-RoanokeCatholic 0 0 8 4z-Carlisle 0 0 4 5

x-districtchampion

y-districtco-champion

z-ineligibleforconferencetitle

2011 FINAL TIMESLAND TOP 101.Christiansburg(12-2)2.MagnaVista(11-1)3.Northside(11-1)4.FranklinCounty(9-3)5.Salem(8-4)6.CaveSpring(9-4)7.RockbridgeCounty(9-3)8.Galax(14-1)9.Giles(10-2)10.GeorgeWythe(12-1)

VHSLGROUP AAADIVISION 6First roundEastern RegionOscarSmith50,Bethel15Grassfield17,Landstown6Salem-VirginiaBeach62,OceanLakes28Bayside27,Woodside21Northern RegionWestfield21,JamesRobinson3WestPotomac35,Chantilly7LakeBraddock50,Oakton21Centreville42,Fairfax19Northwest RegionForfeit(Gar-Field42,Osbourn37)FranklinCounty21,ColonialForge14Region semifinalsEastern RegionOscarSmith34,Grassfield14Salem-VirginiaBeach35,Bayside21Central RegionHermitage14,ThomasDale0L.C.Bird21,Varina16Northern RegionWestfield42,WestPotomac34Centreville21,LakeBraddock18NorthwestRegionBattlefield38,FranklinCounty21C.D.Hylton54,Osbourn26Region finalsEastern RegionOscarSmith35,Salem34Central RegionHermitage10,L.C.Bird0Northern RegionCentreville27,Westfield24Northwest RegionBattlefield28,C.D.Hylton13State semifinalsOscarSmith42,Battlefield14Centreville10,Hermitage9State championshipOscarSmith47,Centreville21

DIVISION 5First roundEastern RegionHampton16,GreenRun12

I.C.Norcom46,Lakeland28Phoebus32,Warwick14LakeTaylor52,GreatBridge20Northern RegionStoneBridge35,Langley0SouthCounty31,JamesMadison0RobertE.Lee-Springfield25,Hayfield20Yorktown20,McLean6Northwest RegionBrookePoint42,MountainView35GeorgeWashington42,Massaponax26Region semifinalsEastern RegionI.C.Norcom20,Hampton14Phoebus20,LakeTaylor17Central RegionHermitage14,ThomasDale0L.C.Bird21,Varina16Northern RegionSouthCounty25,StoneBridge3Yorktown51,RobertE.Lee-Springfield15Northwest RegionNorthStafford41,GeorgeWashington7BrookePoint47,BroadRun27Region finalsEastern RegionPhoebus24,I.C.Norcom20Central RegionHanover31,Atlee12Northern RegionSouthCounty37,Yorktown13Northwest RegionNorthStafford43,BrookePoint35State semifinalsPhoebus27,NorthStafford26,OTSouthCounty38,Hanover22State championshipPhoebus20,SouthCounty10

DIVISION 4First roundRegion IChancellor31,KingGeorge0Warhill21,Jamestown15Region IIBriarWoods49,ParkView-Sterling21LoudounCounty42,Heritage-Leesburg14LouisaCounty26,Sherando25,OTPowhatan44,JamesWood6

Region IIIAmherstCounty19,Heritage-Lynchburg8StauntonRiver28,Harrisonburg9Region IVHiddenValley24,Bassett10Salem27,PulaskiCounty6Region semifinalsRegion IGrafton20,Chancellor16Courtland20,Warhill10Region IIBriarWoods29,LoudounCounty19Powhatan35,LouisaCounty0Region IIIBroadway50,AmherstCounty23JeffersonForest21,StauntonRiver7Region IVChristiansburg41,HiddenValley20MagnaVista36,Salem35,OTRegion finalsRegion IGrafton38,Courtland24Region IIBriarWoods21,Powhatan7Region IIIBroadway29,JeffersonForest14Region IVChristiansburg46,MagnaVista12State semifinalsBriarWoods31,Grafton0Christiansburg35,Broadway0State championshipBriarWoods28,Christiansburg26

DIVISION 3First roundRegion IPoquoson7,Southampton0Lafayette57,ParkView-SouthHill21Region IIKettleRun42,Fauquier0Tuscarora28,WarrenCounty21Monticello42,WesternAlbemarle40Liberty-Bealeton28,JohnHandley12Region IIIRobertE.Lee-Staunton13,FortDefiance11RockbridgeCounty33,Rustburg7Region IVTunstall49,Marion14

Martinsville46,Abingdon0Region semifinalsRegion IYork35,Poquoson22JamesMonroe56,Lafayette21Region IIKettleRun32,Tuscarora0Liberty-Bealeton42,Monticello14Region IIINorthside42,RobertE.Lee14Brookville19,RockbridgeCounty14Region IVRichlands58,Tunstall7CaveSpring41,Martinsville9Region finalsRegion IJamesMonroe45,York7Region IIKettleRun21,Liberty-Bealeton16Region IIIBrookville21,Northside7Region IVCaveSpring35,Richlands21State semifinalsJamesMonroe14,KettleRun7Brookville38,CaveSpring27State championshipBrookville34,JamesMonroe33

DIVISION 2First roundWest SectionRiverheads55,VirginiaHigh0StuartsDraft17,Union15Gretna55,JohnBattle13Giles44,Glenvar14AppomattoxCounty40,Grundy7WilsonMemorial68,Central-Wise24DanRiver33,GateCity10GraysonCounty35,Graham15East SectionGoochland45,Nottoway7Central-Woodstock24,Windsor8BuckinghamCounty42,StonewallJackson12KingWilliam48,EastRockingham12AmeliaCounty55,Essex6Strasburg34,ClarkeCounty27ManassasPark64,WilliamMonroe22Washington&Lee34,Randolph-Henry14

Second roundWest SectionRiverheads21,StuartsDraft14Gretna27,Giles7WilsonMemorial42,AppomattoxCounty35DanRiver31,GraysonCounty20East SectionGoochland45,Central-Woodstock7KingWilliam32,BuckinghamCounty14AmeliaCounty14,Strasburg6ManassasPark35,Washington&Lee34QuarterfinalsWest SectionGretna28,Riverheads14WilsonMemorial43,DanRiver40East SectionGoochland16,KingWilliam12AmeliaCounty40,ManassasPark12State semifinalsGretna20,AmeliaCounty12Goochland47,WilsonMemorial21State championshipGretna21,Goochland16

DIVISION 1First roundWest SectionGalax64,Holston7Castlewood38,RyeCove24J.I.Burton46,Haysi26Honaker29,Hurley20Clintwood49,Eastside21Chilhowie39,RuralRetreat38Radford45,ThomasWalker6GeorgeWythe73,TwinSprings35East SectionSussexCentral68,WestPoint6Altavista51,Lancaster26BathCounty20,Franklin12Covington28,ParryMcCluer12Northumberland24,CharlesCity22Central-Lunenburg63,ColonialBeach24WilliamCampbell40,Rappahannock13Mathews42,SurryCounty28Second roundWest SectionGalax60,Castlewood24Honaker39,J.I.Burton34Clintwood55,Chilhowie7

GeorgeWythe22,Radford10East SectionSussexCentral20,Altavista12Covington29,BathCounty9WilliamCampbell42,Mathews0Central-Lunenburg14,Northumberland12QuarterfinalsWest SectionGalax48,Honaker9Clintwood23,GeorgeWythe13East SectionSussexCentral88,Covington8Central-Lunenburg28,WilliamCampbell15State semifinalsGalax50,Central-Lunenburg14Clintwood17,SussexCentral8State championshipClintwood33,Galax28

VISDIVISION IState semifinalsLibertyChristian45,FlintHill3St.Christopher’s38,BishopIreton34State championshipLibertyChristian50,St.Christopher’s8DIVISION IIState semifinalsChristchurch41,BlueRidge8PotomacSchool42,BishopSullivan19StatechampionshipChristchurch41,Potomac19DIVISION IIIState semifinalsNorfolkChristian43,IsleofWightAcademy13NorthCross45,FredericksburgChristian0StatechampionshipNorthCross26,NorfolkChristian0DIVISION IVState semifinalsBlessedSacrament-Huguenot49,Fuqua20GreenbrierChristian59,RoanokeCatholic24State championshipBlessedSacrament-Huguenot18,GreenbrierChristian14

THURSDAY, AUGUST 23, 2012 THE ROANOKE TIMES 92012 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALLTHURSDAY, AUGUST 23, 2012 THE ROANOKE TIMES 92012 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL

Photos by SAM DEAN | The Roanoke Times

Covington’s Troy Helton enters his senior year having covered more than 4,100 yards on the football field — a figure that complements his 55 touchdowns.

COVINGTON — The mayor here used to be the Covington High

School basketball coach.A former football assis-

tant is the city’s postmas-ter.

Troy Helton has a civic duty too.

He carries the mail on Friday nights for Coving-ton’s football team.

The 5-foot-8, 160-pound senior usually makes a spe-cial delivery. After rushing for 2,003 yards in 2011 as Coving-ton won the Pioneer District title and finished 9-4, Helton stands within range of becom-ing one of 20 VHSL players to top the 6,000-yard mark for a career.

Helton enters 2012 with 4,162 yards and 55 career touchdowns, numbers just as certain to climb as the cost of a stamp.

“I really hope I get that 2,000 again this year,” Helton said. “I want to win, though. If I don’t get 2,000 and we win, that’s all right.”

Covington has a new offense and a new coach.

Rod Tenney, a former head coach at Bath County and Craig County and an assistant at Covington for the past five seasons, will run the single-wing offense he learned at Bath under the late Carl Wil-liams.

Tenney will find a way to get Helton the ball.

“I told him he was born to be the tailback in the single-wing,” the new coach said. “He’ll carry the football. He’s going to have to.”

Steve Dress ler, who resigned as head coach after leading the Cougars to the Group A Division 1 quarter-finals, believes Helton can prosper in the tricky offense based on deception.

“In a way, that’s going to help Troy out,” Dressler said. “It’s kind of hard to key on Troy when you don’t know who’s got the football.”

Helton was the starting tailback under Dressler as a freshman in 2009, moving to quarterback the next two seasons. Helton ran a spread offense installed by former assistant David Bryant, who now spends his days running the local post office.

Helton rushed for 1,454 yards and 23 TDs as a sopho-more.

“I’ve got to give [Bryant] a lot of the credit,” Dressler said. “He had a big impact on Troy.

When we moved him to QB, we put in the spread offense we picked up from Wofford University. That really spread the field for him.”

The wiry Helton doesn’t need much room to run. When there isn’t any, he often leaps over tacklers, using the springs that allowed him to clear 6 feet, 4 inches last spring in the high jump.

“His stop-and-go and his east and west agility are just absolutely incredible,” Dressler said.

Helton wears jersey No. 5, and it wasn’t a random choice. It’s the same number that for-mer Heisman Trophy winner Reggie Bush wore at Southern California.

“I used to watch all their games,” Helton said. “I tried to see what he did, and take it to the field. Reggie Bush was a standout cutter. He used to juke everybody.

“I’m really quick, but it’s

the speed I’m trying to work on this year.”

Helton said he also is working on something else, his grades. His sub-2.0 career numbers in the classroom have turned some recruiters away.

Tenney, whose son Corey is a junior offensive lineman at Marshall University, said Helton might be a candidate to qualify for entry to a Con-ference USA program such as the Thundering Herd under Proposition 48.

“I talked to the high school recruiting director up there,” Tenney said. “They want us to send a highlight tape. High on their priority list is a Prop 48 running back. They have a young kid in there, and they want somebody to take his place.

“They want to look at him. If he could get to a program that could put 25 pounds on him and have him not lose a step, he could be a force.”

College is not on Helton’s mind as the Cougars embark on their season opener against Alleghany. At stake in the neighborhood rivalry is the Brackman Cup, which Covington has never won. Alleghany slammed Coving-ton 47-0 in 2011.

“We’re going to get it back the 24th,” Helton said. “I can-not wait for that game. Last year, that’s in the past. We’re not worrying about last year.”

Well, almost.Covington’s program is

still reeling somewhat from last year’s Division 1 quar-terfinal playoff loss at Sussex Central. The Cougars lost in

a VHSL-record 88-8 rout that featured an even more incred-ible 74-8 halftime score.

Helton threw a second-quarter TD pass and added a two-point run for Covington’s only scoring.

“That game was ridicu-lous,” Helton said. “There’s no way, like, 88 to 8. We just gave up. We were nervous. I think we were a little intimi-dated. We got off the bus, it was a new environment. That loss was crazy.”

“You learn from it. You take that loss and you want to get back and finish it off. We mention it every day. I want to play them again, honestly. I liked it. I thought it was awe-some. I want a rematch.”

Dressler put the mismatch against Sussex into perspec-tive.

“It was like they had 10 Troy Heltons, but they were all bigger,” he said.

Helton will leave a big mark on Covington’s pro-gram. He is well within range of becoming the No. 3 career rushing leader in Timesland history behind VHSL record-holder O.J. Thomason of Wil-liam Byrd and former Patrick County star John Harris.

The Covington senior’s numbers would be even more impressive had he not missed several games with an ankle injury as a freshman.

Helton never blinked an eye when he made the Cou-gars’ lineup as a 140-pound ninth-grader.

“I loved it,” he said. “I loved all the hype. But to me, it was just football. It was my dream.”

Helton is poised

to go down in history

A career 6,000-yard mark isn’t out of the question, but

for Covington’s Troy Helton, the goal is simply to win.

By Robert Andersonrobert.anderson@roanoke.com 981-3123

Troy Helton is transitioning from commanding the spread offense to being in the single-wing. His coach told him “he was born to be a tailback in the single-wing.”

“His stop-and-go and his east and west agility are just absolutely incredible.”Former Covington coach Steve DresslerOn Troy Helton

The Roanoke Times | File 2010

Covington quarterback Troy Helton rushed for 2,003 yards in 2011 as Covington won the Pioneer District title and finished 9-4.

10 THE ROANOKE TIMES THURSDAY, AUGUST 23, 20122012 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL10 THE ROANOKE TIMES THURSDAY, AUGUST 23, 20122012 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL