EAST CONFERENCE
I-70 DIVISION
CHEYENNE WELLS TIGERS
Coach: Matt McNeely
2008 record: 4-5
Returning starters: Nine offense, seven defense
Last playoff appearance: 2007
Strengths: Great numbers (31 out), the Tigers possess good size and depth across the board.
Weakness: “I don’t really want to give that out,” McNeely said. But there is a little inexperience.
Players to watch: John Knudson, Sr., TE-LB, 6-4, 210; Tyson Mitchek, Jr., FB-LB, 6-0, 196; Ross Pelton, Jr., QB-DB, 5-10, 158; Blake Roth, Jr., TB-DB, 5-8, 137; Justin Smith, Sr., RB-DB, 6-0, 173.
In 2009: Hopes are high across the board, and why not? Everything seems positive for the Tigers, who may be good for the next few years as well.
FLAGLER PANTHERS
Coach: Mason Seaman
2008 record: 5-5
Returning starters: Four offense, four defense
Last playoff appearance: 2008, lost 62-22 to Dayspring Christian in the first round
Strengths: A pesky linebacking corp and “we should be pretty quick,” according to Seaman.
Weakness: Size.
Players to watch: Caleb Brent, Sr., FB-LB, 6-0, 160; Randy Crisp, Sr., RB-LB, 6-0, 160; Jack Petty, Sr., E-DB, 6-1, 150.
In 2009: The Panthers are always tough and Seaman believes they should not only be right back in the I-70 mix but could be a player late in the season.
GENOA-HUGO/KARVAL PIRATES
Coach: Mike Clark
2008 record: 6-4
Returning starters: Five offense, six defense
Last playoff appearance: 2008, lost to Merino 44-6 in the first round
Strengths: In addition to having the experience, this is the fastest Pirates team in years.
Weaknesses: There are some big shoes to fill and they are not all that huge.
Players to watch: Bryan Clark, Jr., QB-DB, 5-7, 150; Cole James, Sr., OL-DE, 6-1, 175; Taylor Russell, Jr., RB-DB, 5-8, 145; Brett Stone, Sr., RB-DB, 6-1, 165.
In 2009: “We’ve got a lot of kids that like to play physically and the speed will definitely help,” said Clark, who hopes to have the Pirates right back in the mix.
SIMLA CUBS
Coach: Shane Zimmerman
2008 record: 4-4
Returning starters: Six offense, six defense
Last playoff appearance: 2007
Strengths: Upperclassmen dot the roster giving the Cubs experience across the board including a tough secondary.
Weaknesses: Just 16 kids on the roster and they are not a very good passing team.
Players to watch: Tyler Anderson, Sr., G-DE, 5-9, 170; Dustin Jenkins, So., RB-DB, 5-8, 140; Chance Mitchell, Jr., QB-DB, 6-3, 180; Mike Mullin, Sr., TB-DB, 5-8, 160; Andrew Scherrer, Sr., Util.-DB-KR, 5-8, 140.
In 2009: The Cubs are just one of the many balanced teams in this league, but the have to proove they can win before the others take them seriously.
STRATTON EAGLES
Coach: David Gottmann
2008 record: 9-2
Returning starters: Three offense, three defense
Last playoff appearance: 2008, lost 48-20 to Hoehne in quarterfinals
Strengths: Chemistry, attitude and as usual in Stratton – a smart offensive line.
Weaknesses: Inexperience and speed.
Players to watch: Cale Ely, Sr., C-NT, 6-1, 250; Evan Rairdon, Sr., G-DE, 5-11, 200; Kyle Shutte, Sr., E-DB, 5-11, 150; David Worden, Sr., E-LB, 5-10, 170.
In 2009: They have to shake off a Zero Week beating by top ranked Merino. They are always the team to beat in this division although the rest are gaining.
BLACK FOREST DIVISION
COLORADO D&B BULLDOGS
Coach: Joe Sisneros
2008 record: 4-5
Returning starters: Five offense, five defense
Last playoff appearance: 1977
Strength: “We should be allright defensively,” Sisneros said.
Weakness: Very young.
Players to watch: Kalub Bray, Sr., E-LB, 5-8, 135; A.J. Moody, So., RB-DL, 5-7, 170; Ryan Peterson, Sr., OL-LB, 5-10, 145; Bryan Smith, Jr., RB-DB, 6-0, 150.
In 2009: The Bulldogs need to find able bodies to fill in for huge losses. With everybody else in the division seemingly getting better, Sisneros hopes his team responds.
ELBERT BULLDOGS
Coach: Shawn Graves
2008 record: 5-4
Returning starters: Six offense, six defense
Last playoff appearance: 2006
Strengths: A ton of experience – especially at the skill positions. The numbers are good as well with 24 kids out.
Weakness: “We must improve defensively,” Graves said.
Players to watch: Kyle Brown, Sr., E-DE, 6-2, 170; Joe Crabbs, Sr., OL-DL, 5-10, 190; Travis Hutchens, Jr., QB-DB, 6-0, 170; Ivan Spence, Sr., E-DL, 6-0, 170; Dawson Weber, Sr., RB-DB, 5-11, 170.
In 2009: All signs kind of point to the Bulldogs being the team to beat in the Black Forest.
KIOWA INDIANS
Coach: Jeff Rice
2008 record: 2-7
Returning starters: Five offense, five defense
Last playoff appearance: 1996
Strengths: Solid senior leadership amongst the few they have and good athletisism.
Weaknesses: There are a lot of kids out, but not a lot of football experience to be had.
Players to watch: Cody Campbell, Sr., QB-DB, 6-2, 145; Justin Campbell, So., RB-LB/DB, 6-1, 141; Ben James, Jr., C-NT, 6-0, 155; Emmanuel Muñoz, Jr., RB-LB, 5-9, 135; Connor Pierson, Sr., E-LB, 6-0, 142; Ben Tosch, Sr., OL-DL, 6-2, 235.
In 2009: “We are going to be a team that catches some people by surprise,” said first year coach Rice, whose team finished fourth in the division last season.
PIKES PEAK CHRISTIAN EAGLES
Coach: Doug Nave
2008 record: 1-8
Returning starters: Three offense, three defense
Last playoff appearance: Never qualified
Strengths: Both the offensive and defensive lines are as big as they have ever been.
Weakness: Rebuilding the skill positions.
Players to watch: Note: Coach Nave did not have any players to watch.
In 2009: The Eagles need the defense to match the offenses intensity and output. Numbers are low and Nave knows they are an injury away from disaster.
MIAMI-YODER BUFFALOES
Coach: Don McGatlin
2008 record: 9-1
Returning starters: Four offense, four defense
Last playoff appearance: 2008, lost 63-26 to Caliche in the first round
Strength: Godd receiving corp.
Weakness: Many of the returning starters are being moved to different positions.
Players to watch: Rob Adams, Jr., QB-DE, 6-1, 175; Michael Hopson, Sr., E-DE, 6-1, 207; Jake Munson, Sr., C-NT, 5-8, 150; Shane Reed, Sr., RB-DB, 5-10, 175; John Uribe, Sr., E-DB, 6-0, 165.
In 2009: The Buffs graduated 10 seniors. “I didn’t even graduate that many my last year at Green Mountain,” McGatlin said. Still with the cowboy in charge, the Buffs will always be a tough out each week.
NORTH CONFERENCE PLAINS DIVISION
CALICHE BUFFALOES
Coach: Paul Zink
2008 record: 9-3
Returning starters: Three offense, two defense
Last playoff appearance: 2008, lost 24-6 to Merino in the semifinals
Strength: Speed to burn.
Weakness: With just two seniors on the roster (only one with any experience) the Buffs are lacking quality leadership.
Players to watch: Jeff Huss, Jr., C-LB, 5-10, 175; Aaron Stieb, Jr., TB-DB, 5-11, 165; Cory Stump, Sr., QB-DB, 5-11, 165; Brady Zink, Jr., FB-LB, 5-10, 175.
In 2009: The winning tradition is back in Iliff. That said the Buffaloes need to rebuild quickly for the daunting task that is the Plains.
DAYSPRING CHRISTIAN EAGLES
Coach: Mick Holmes
2008 record: 13-0
Returning starters: Four offense, four defense
Last playoff appearance: 2008, beat Merino 26-8 in the 8-man title game
Strength: They know how to win games.
Weakness: A lot of youth that needs to grow up quickly.
Players to watch: Wesley Lowe, Sr., E-LB, 6-0, 175; Mike Moore, Sr., QB-DB, 6-1 1/2, 175; Jared Ulmer, Sr., G-DT, 6-2, 295; Tim Wunder, Sr., G-LB, 6-0, 180.
In 2009: “We have to go back to the drawing board, but when it comes down to it, we do what got us there in the first place,” Holmes said. The Eagles may not be as good as they were last year but they are still pretty darn salty.
HAXTUN FIGHTIN’ BULLDOGS
Coach: Dave Shafer
2008 record: 6-4
Returning starters: Four offense, four defense
Last playoff appearance: 2008, lost 58-28 to Hoehne in first round
Strengths: Both the offensive and defensive line return completely in tact.
Weakness: “It’s just a matter of finding kids to run the ball,” Shafer said.
Players to watch: Doug Carper, Sr., E-DE, 6-1, 185; Jeff Hawthorne, Sr., G-LB, 6-1, 185; Dalton Hinde, Sr., C-NT, 6-0, 230; Derek Lundgren, Sr., G-Util, 5-6, 185.
In 2009: It a mirror image of what they threw out on the field last year. Which means they should be right back in the mix for one of the two remaining spots in the league after Dayspring and Merino.
LONGMONT CHRISTIAN WARRIORS
Coach: Ben Hackbarth
2008 record: 2-6
Returning starters: Six offense, six defense
Last playoff appearance: 2005
Strengths: Speed and athletisism.
Weaknesses: They are a little undersized and the numbers are down.
Players to watch: Austin Bennett, Sr., RB-DB, 5-7, 153; Wesley Bennett, Jr., FB-LB, 6-1, 186; Seth Smith, Jr., QB-DB, 5-9, 155; Anthony Torres, Sr., FB-NG, 5-7, 158.
In 2009: “Our biggest hurdle is more mental than anything,” Hackbarth said. It’s doable, but they have to believe in themselves.
MERINO RAMS
Coach: John “Buck” Barber
2008 record: 11-2
Returning starters: Four offense, three defense
Last playoff appearance: 2008, lost 26-8 to Dayspring Christian in the 8-man championship game
Strengths: There are 34 kids out. They are deep, talented and have been playing in the system since they were in the third grade.
Weakness: Offensive ends.
Players to watch: Wyatt Barber, Sr., QB-DB, 5-10, 160; Bryar DeSanti, Sr., RB-DB, 5-6, 160; Austin Fritzler, Sr., C-NT, 6-2, 240.
In 2009: This team is really good and the usual high expectations are even higher with revenge on their minds.
SEDGWICK COUNTY COUGARS
Coach: Dave Rice
2008 record: 3-5
Returning starters: One offense, one defense
Last playoff appearance: 2007
Strengths: “This is teaching and coaching at its very best,” says Rice, who admits there are no egos on this team.
Weakness: Their inexperience may be a strength in years to come.
Player to watch: Jake Warta, Jr., RB-LB, 5-10, 170.
In 2009: If they win a few games this year, that’s a plus. The next few years look a lot better.
CENTRAL DIVISION
GILPIN COUNTY EAGLES
Coach: Ryan Witzel
2008 record: 0-8
Returning starters: Three offense, three defense
Last playoff appearance: 1994
Strengths: Offensive line and defensive line both return.
Weaknesses: Skill positions.
Players to watch: Michael Barngrover, So., G-NT, 5-10, 155; David Yerkman, Sr., G-LB, 5-10, 160.
In 2009: With 17 kids on the roster, the Eagles can actually scrimmage in practice for the first time in year. Witzel hopes the future is somewhat bright for a program that has been in the dumps for almost 15 years.
JUSTICE PHOENIX
Coach: T.J. Cole
2008 record: 3-5
Returning starters: Six offense, six defense
Last playoff appearance: Never qualified
Strengths: Speed and a solid passing game.
Weakness: These guys are always looking for solid line play.
Players to watch: Hasan Alday, Jr., RB-DB, 5-7, 150; Esteban Cevallos, Sr., E-LB, 5-9, 220; Bobby Hidalgo, Sr., OL-DL, 5-9, 205; Ian McGee, Sr., TB-DB, 6-0, 190; Adrian Trujillo, Sr., E-DB, 6-1, 190.
In 2009: The Phoenix are the great unknown of this league year-in and year-out simply because you never know what they are going to have, but they are always going to be athletic. Whether that equals winning … only time will tell.
MARANATHA CHRISTIAN CRUSADERS
Coach: Dan Ducey
2008 record: 3-6
Returning starters: Seven offense, seven defense
Last playoff appearance: 1991
Strengths: Seven seniors with good hands in the Crusaders passing game.
Weaknesses: Numbers (just 14 out) and speed.
Players to watch: David Garrison, Sr., C-DL, 5-11, 180; Alex Lampe, Sr., QB-DB, 5-10, 150; Mike Minges, Sr., TB-DB, 5-10, 175; Jed Riccobono, So., OL-DL, 5-11, 185; Nick St. John, Sr., E-LB, 5-7, 165.
In 2009: The injury bug bit hard last year and with only 14 kids on the roster it is a must to avoid being bitten again. If they do the Crusaders can compete for a top four spot.
NORTH PARK WILDCATS
Coach: Toby Sanchez
2008 record: 4-4
Returning starters: Four offense, four defense
Last playoff appearance: 2005
Strength: Solid passing game.
Weakness: Just 14 kids on the roster.
Players to watch: Landon Anderson, Sr., E-DE, 6-2, 175; Kory Cornielson, Sr., TB-DB, 5-8, 150; Brent Lytle, Jr., QB-DB, 6-2, 160; Kenny Westfall, Sr., C-NT, 6-0, 230.
In 2009: The Wildcats, much like Maranatha, have to stay healthy with the low numbers. The kids they do have will make them equally as tough as they were last year when they finished No. 2 in the league.
ROCKY MOUNTAIN LUTHERAN EAGLES
Coach: Mike Schaeffer
2008 record: 1-7
Returning starters: Five offense, five defense
Last playoff appearance: Never qualified
Strength: Skill positions. “We’ve got some pretty good players,” Schaffer said.
Weaknesses: Special teams, tackling and inexperience on the line.
Players to watch: Josh Brown, Sr., QB, 6-3, 180; Donovan Cato, Jr., E-DB, 5-9, 145; Jamal Cato, Sr., RB-DB, 5-8, 150; Jacob Vanderhyde, Sr., OL-DL, 6-2, 175; Jeremy Vanderhyde, Jr., E-DE, 6-4, 170; Cole Vilhauer, Jr., RB-LB, 5-9, 150; Kevin Wagner, Sr., LB, 5-10, 160.
In 2009: All the coaches in the league raved about the potential talent here. It’s all a matter of how quickly the Eagles adjust to a new coaches system.
SILVER STATE CHRISTIAN PATRIOTS
Coach: Joe Johnson
2008 record: 5-4
Returning starters: Seven offense, seven defense
Last playoff appearance: 2005
Strengths: Offensive line and defensive backs.
Weakness: Inexperience at quarterback.
Players to watch: Shawn Cherian, Sr., TB-DB, 5-11, 160; Richie Endyk, Sr., E-LB, 5-10, 160; Spencer Fagen, Sr., E-DB, 5-11, 155; Aron Garcia, Sr., C-NT, 6-1, 250; Devon Hueckstuedt, Jr., FB-LB, 5-11, 175.
In 2009: Said Johnson: “We are ready to take back the crown” in the Central.
VAIL CHRISTIAN SAINTS
Coach: Tim Pierson
2008 record: 6-2
Returning starters: Three offense, two defense
Last playoff appearance: 2003
Strengths: The senior leadership and work ethic are better than in years past.
Weakness: A lot of “never-evers” on the roster.
Players to watch: Ryan Barry, Sr., E-LB, 5-10, 195; Steil Beagley, Sr., RB-LB, 5-11, 180; Larry Cavanaugh, Sr., QB-DB, 6-1, 175; Kiernan Hurtt, Sr., OL-LB, 5-10, 210; Dan Schramm, Sr., C-DL, 5-10, 160.
In 2009: The Saints are still the favorite in this league until someone prooves otherwise.
SOUTH CONFERENCE
ARKANSAS VALLEY DIVISION
GRANADA BOBCATS
Coach: Manuel Gonzales, Sr.
2008 record: 7-4
Returning starters: Three offense, three defense
Last playoff appearance: 2008, lost 61-26 to Dayspring Christian in quarterfinals
Strengths: Good numbers with 25 kids out including a decent running back.
Weaknesses: The offensive line is going to take some developing and the quarterback is young.
Players to watch: Chris DeLeon, Jr., FB-LB, 5-10, 205; Cody Harris, Sr., G-DE, 6-1, 180; Traegon Marquez, Jr., QB-DB, 5-10, 150; Jordan Martinez, Sr., G-NG, 5-10, 235; Aaron Vega, Sr., E-DB, 5-10, 150.
In 2009: The Bobcats are just another one of those teams that reloads instead of rebuilds. “Don’t count us out just yet,” Gonzales said.
HOLLY WILDCATS
Coach: Scott Hodgson
2008 record: 3-6
Returning starters: Six offense, five defense
Last playoff appearance: 2004
Strengths: Backfield and other skill positions.
Weaknesses: Not a lot of varsity experience on the offensive line.
Players to watch: Estevan Hernandez, Jr., E-DB, 6-0, 200; Richard Hernandez, Jr., E-LB, 6-0, 200; Michael Lozano, Jr., RB-LB, 6-0, 185; Stetson Rushton, So., QB, 5-11, 170; Michael Salgado, Sr., RB-DB, 5-8, 165.
In 2009: They have the skills to win the league, just need to focus on the little things that turn L’s into W’s.
MCCLAVE CARDINALS
Coach: Shawn Randel
2008 record: 10-1
Returning starters: One offense, two defense
Last playoff appearance: 2008, lost 63-0 to Caliche in the quarterfinals
Strengths: Offensive and defensive lines.
Weaknesses: Speed and an inexperienced backfield.
Players to watch: Andrew Grover, Sr., G-DE, 6-2, 260; Tate Mauser, So., G-LB, 6-3, 250; Wacey Turner, Jr., RB-LB, 5-10, 150.
In 2009: Inexperience will hinder the Cardinals from getting out of the gate quickly. “I would like to think with a few breaks, we can make a run at the third spot in the league,” Randel said.
SPRINGFIELD LONGHORNS
Coach: Doug Hutches
2008 record: 2-6
Returning starters: Six offense, six defense
Last playoff appearance: 2007
Strengths: A lot of young kids with experience and speed with some size mixed in.
Weakness: Not a lot of depth on the offensive line.
Players to watch: Ryan Gregory, Sr., OL-DL, 5-10, 200; Blayne Kirk, Sr., RB-LB, 5-7, 150; T.J. Leonard, Sr., G-DE, 5-10, 200; Herman Medina, Sr., E-LB, 5-10, 165; Brian Wood, Sr., E-DB, 5-8, 145.
In 2009: Have a shot in a wide open league, but need to prove they can play with the leagues elite again.
WALSH EAGLES
Coach: Ronny Tate
2008 record: 6-4
Returning starters: Five offense, five defense
Last playoff appearance: 2008, lost 40-14 to Stratton in the first round
Strengths: Speed and quickness with a solid running game.
Weakness: Question marks up the middle of the field.
Players to watch: Coach Tate never singles out his players.
In 2009: The Arkansas Valley coaches as well as others raved about the Eagles and their chances. “The kids know they have to go out and perform,” Tate said.
WILEY PANTHERS
Coach: Andy Shaw
2008 record: 0-8
Returning starters: Five offense, five defense
Last playoff appearance: 2006
Strengths: They are starting to come together as a team and believe they can rebuild the program that scored just 12 points last season.
Weakness: “We are still a little green,” Shaw said.
Players to watch: Rowdy Martin, Sr., TB-LB, 6-1, 190; Zack Purdue, Jr., FB-DE, 6-2, 175; Dylan Specht, Sr., E-LB, 6-1, 150; Tayler Wilson, Jr., E-DE, 6-1, 160.
In 2009: The Panthers are in good hands with Shaw and the playoffs – not this year – are in their future.
SOUTHERN DIVISION
FOWLER GRIZZLIES
Coach: John Ayers
2008 record: 4-5
Returning starters: Four offense, four defense
Last playoff appearance: 2004
Strength: Work ethic.
Weakness: Youthful … just two seniors.
Players to watch: Cody Caesar, Jr., E-LB, 6-0, 180; Tryon Goff, Jr. QB-DB, 5-10, 160; Luke Gonzales, Jr., OL-DL, 6-1, 180; Lane Hardy, Jr., G-DL, 6-1, 190; Kurt Liever, Jr., OL-DL, 5-10, 225; Adam Montoya, Jr., RB-LB, 5-9, 190; Taylor Schiffer, Jr., E-DL, 6-2, 175.
In 2009: The Grizzlies are right in the mix of a balanced league and should be near the top.
HANOVER HORNETS
Coach: Luke Decker
2008 record: 2-6
Returning starters: Four offense, five defense
Last playoff appearance: Never qualified
Strength: The offensive backfield is solid.
Weakness: Replacing their entire offensive line.
Players to watch: Cameron Brown, Sr., E-LB, 5-11, 170; Chris Davis, Sr., QB-LB, 5-9, 150; John Gilbreth, Sr., RB-DB, 5-10, 140; Frank Hughes, Jr., FB-LB, 5-7, 140.
In 2009: The Hornets have the skill kids to score points and compete in this league, but they need help up front to keep those guys healthy.
HOEHNE FARMERS
Coach: Bob Schaeffer
2008 record: 10-2
Returning starters: Two offense, two defense
Last playoff appearance: 2008, lost 40-24 to Dayspring Christian in the semifinals
Strengths: The line play should be solid on both sides and Cody Roberts is a hoss with the ball in his hands.
Weaknesses: A lot of inexperience and they are breaking in players at new positions.
Players to watch: Devon Cordova, C-LB, 5-6, 155; Cody Roberts, Jr., RB-DB, 5-10, 170; Clint Thurston, Sr., G-DE, 5-10, 180; Brandon Tortorelli, Sr., RB-DB, 5-11, 140.
In 2009: “A lot of people will be looking for revenge, but we will show up,” Schaeffer said. We agree.
MANZANOLA BOBCATS
Coach: James Lopez
2008 record: 2-7
Returning starters: Five offense, five defense
Last playoff appearance: 2005
Strength: The youthfulness of a season ago is a year older.
Weakness: The numbers are always a concern here especially come practice time.
Players to watch: Jesus Acuna, Sr., FB-LB, 5-6, 150; James Aragon, So., E-DE, 6-0, 150; Michael Aragon, So., TB-LB, 5-8, 160; Troy Padilla, Jr., QB-DB, 5-10, 160; Josh Reyes, Sr., E-LB, 6-2, 180.
In 2009: Another year in Coach Lopez’s system may translate to another win or two, but this team is still very young.
PRIMERO BULLDOGS
(Formerly the Holy Trinity Academy/Primero co-op; since there are no kids from HTA, Primero has taken over the program.)
Coach: Shelby Langford
2008 record: 2-6
Returning starters: Fout offense, four defense
Last playoff appearance: N/A
Strengths: Overall team speed and some size on the line.
Weaknesses: It’s a brand new system and there is not a lot of depth.
Players to watch: William Bryant, Jr., RB-DB, 5-9, 160; Ryan Kitchen, Sr., C-NT, 6-3, 245; Brandon McDonald, Jr., FB-LB, 5-11, 175; Willie McDonald, Jr., QB-LB, 5-10, 170; Hank Reed, Jr., G-DT, 6-0, 225.
In 2009: “We’ve got to turn the losing mindset around,” said Langford, in his first season. If they do, the table has been set for a talented junior class in 2010.
SWINK LIONS
Coach: Ray Headley
2008 record: 5-4
Returning starters: Four offense, four defense
Last playoff appearance: 2005
Strengths: Team speed and in the words of Headley: “We are well endowed at running back, with four kids that can run the ball.”.
Weaknesses: Depth on the offensive line and inexperience at the offense end positions.
Players to watch: Tyler Dell, Sr., G-NT, 5-10, 260; Brock Miller, Sr., FB-LB, 5-10, 175; Kyle Stroud, Sr., RB-DB, 5-9, 160.
In 2009: “This team can be really good,” Headley said. Speed will be a big factor for the Lions, who look to get back to their glory days.
WEST CONFERENCE
MOUNTAIN DIVISION
ANTONITO TROJANS
Coach: Aaron Abeyta
2008 record: 7-2
Returning starters: Seven offense, seven defense
Last playoff appearance: 2008, lost 49-12 to McClave in the first round
Strengths: The backfield and a solid all-around defense.
Weakness: Depth on the offensive line.
Players to watch: Stefan Armenta, Jr., E-LB, 5-7, 160; Jon Duran, Sr., FB-DT, 5-10, 150; Bryan Ruybal, Jr., TB-DE, 5-11, 170; Dylan Sisneros, Sr., G-LB, 6-1, 265; Jose Uriarte, Sr., QB-DB, 5-11, 170.
In 2009: There is absolutely no reason why the Trojans should finish the reclamation project and win this league.
COTOPAXI PIRATES
Coach: Tom Navarette
2008 record: 2-6
Returning starters: Five offense, five defense
Last playoff appearance: 2001
Strengths: The quarterback and the entire offensive backfield.
Weakness: Inexperience on the offensive line.
Players to watch: Matt Donovan, Sr., QB-LB, 5-10, 165; Mike Fitzpatrick, Jr., C-DE, 6-3, 190; Dacyn Johnson, Sr., Util.-DE, 5-9, 170; Doug Troutman, So., TB-LB, 5-10, 160; Daniel Wade, Sr., C-NT, 6-1, 170; Cole Whitlow, Sr., RB-LB, 5-10, 195.
In 2009: The Pirates will be competitive, especially with a big senior class. Unfortunately the league is much better and that may make winning games tougher.
LA VETA REDSKINS
Coach: Don Price
2008 record: 4-5
Returning starters: Six offense, five defense
Last playoff appearance: 2003
Strengths: The senior clas is very athletic and has tons of experience.
Weaknesses: Depth. Said Price: “We are hurting on the O-line.”
Players to watch: Dakota Mason, Sr., E-DE, 6-4, 180; Ron Ortivez, Sr., QB-DB, 6-3, 165; Jesse Pacheco, Sr., OL-DT, 5-10, 200; Trey Price, Sr., TB-LB, 6-0, 185.
In 2009: “This is one of our better teams in years, hopefully this is our year,” said Price. One of the many quality teams in this league.
MOUNTAIN VALLEY INDIANS
Coach: Dale Harrison
2008 record: 1-7
Returning starters: Five offense, five defense
Last playoff appearance: 2005
Strength: Speed.
Weakness: Football savvy.
Players to watch: Nick Hammel, Jr., RB-DB, 5-8, 150; Ryan Mangum, Jr., FB-LB, 5-11, 207; Aaron Meyers, Sr., QB-LB, 5-7, 170.
In 2009: The Indians just don’t have the numbers to compete in this improoved league. A .500 record is doable, but a longshot.
SANFORD INDIANS
Coach: Aaron Tuioti-Mariner
2008 record: 9-2
Returning starters: Eight offense, eight defense
Last playoff appearance: 2008, lost 28-8 to Merino in the quarterfinals
Strength: Great balance on the offense side.
Weakness: Depth.
Players to watch: Branson Barr, Sr., E-DB, 5-10, 150; Dakota Barr, Sr., E-DB, 6-0, 155; Tommy Caldon, Jr., QB-DB, 5-10, 160; Johnny Dominguez, Sr., OL-DT, 6-0, 230; Ty Mortensen, Sr., RB-DB, 6-0, 190; Brennan Norton, Sr., E-DE, 6-6, 220.
In 2009: This is a completely different team with the weapons in different areas. “We are taking the target on our back thing very seriously,” Tuioti-Mariner said.
SANGRE DE CRISTO THUNDERBIRDS
Coach: Buddy Anderson
2008 record: 5-4
Returning starters: Two offense, one defense
Last playoff appearance: 2007
Strength: Depth (24). “This is a good group of kids,” Anderson said.
Weaknesses: “We are still pretty young.” The T-birds will start six or seven sophomores.
Players to watch: Lance Blades, So., FB-DE, 5-11, 160; Nathan Givens, So., E-DE, 6-1, 170; Cody Sothers, So., RB, 5-7, 175; Seth Stober, Jr., QB-DB, 5-10, 160; Rusty Witherspoon, Sr., RB-LB, 5-7, 175.
In 2009: This team is young but capable of winning now.
WESTERN DIVISION
DOVE CREEK BULLDOGS
Coach: Ken Soper
2008 record: 9-1
Returning starters: One offense, one defense
Last playoff appearance: 2008, lost 51-18 to Granada in the first round
Strengths: Offensive backfield, defensive line and linebackers.
Weaknesses: Defensive back and on the offensive line.
Players to watch: Blaine Daves, Sr., FB-NT, 6-2, 200; Justin Guynes, Sr., RB-LB, 5-8 1/2, 200; Jacob Lanyon, Jr., TB-DE, 5-10, 170; Austin Norris, Jr., E-DB, 6-2, 170; Levi Randolph, Sr., FB-LB, 5-9, 155; Dillon Sanders, Sr., E-DB, 6-1, 170.
In 2009: It’s not one of Soper’s better teams, but with him in charge they are always going to find ways to win games.
NORWOOD MAVERICKS
Coach: Tom LaFramboise
2008 record: 7-3
Returning starters: Two offense, two defense
Last playoff appearance: 2008, lost 48-8 to Sanford in the first round
Strength: The offensive line should be pretty good.
Weaknesses: Inexperience and a lot of unexpected unknowns.
Players to watch: Coach LaFramboise did not have any players to watch.
In 2009: The summer was rough on the Mavericks, who were heavy favorites in the league. The quality is still there, but the nucleus has to jel quickly to lead what still has the potential to be a very good team.
NUCLA MUSTANGS
Coach: Jeff Palmer
2008 record: 0-8
Returning starters: Four offense, four defense
Last playoff appearance: 2006
Strengths: The senior leadership is good, but the talent is in the junior and sophomore classes.
Weaknesses: There is not a lot of varsity experience and they are learning with a new coach and a new system.
Players to watch: Eric Galarza, Sr., QB-LB, 6-2, 205; Seth Knob, Jr., RB-DE, 5-10, 170; Destry Smith, So., E-DB, 6-1, 165; Brice Steffans, Jr., G-DT, 6-2, 215.
In 2009: A reasonable goal is .500 ball after not winning a single game last season.
PLATEAU VALLEY COWBOYS
Coach: Joe Melendez
2008 record: 5-4
Returning starters: Three offense, three defense
Last playoff appearance: 2007
Strengths: “These guys have an excellent attitude and are excited about the new coaches. They just want to play football,” Melendez said. Tackling.
Weaknesses: Inexperience, football savvy and they have just two seniors.
Players to watch: Cade Castro, Jr., FB-DE, 5-10, 160; Dallas Daniels, Sr., OL-DL, 6-0, 230; Joe Foss, Sr., RB-LB, 5-10, 170; Dalton Schuman, Jr., QB-LB, 6-1, 180; Dan Oliveras, JR., OL-DL, 6-0, 175; Ricky Tecata, Jr., OL-DL, 5-10, 200.
In 2009: The Cowboys haven’t beat Dove Creek in seven years and they – like Norwood – feel like they have a chance this season.
INDEPENDENTS
MANCOS BLUE JAYS
Coach: Alan Mathews
2008 record: 1-8
Returning starters: Nine offense, nine defense
Last playoff appearance: Never qualified in 8-man
Strength: Balanced offensive attack.
Weakness: Adjusting to the 8-man game.
Players to watch: Isaac Leonard, Sr., E-DE, 6-4, 215; Emilio Marquez, Jr., TB-DB, 5-8, 155; Cade Mitchell, Jr., FB-LB, 6-2, 185; Brendon Reiners, Jr., QB-DB, 5-11, 175; Aaron Salyer, Jr., C-NT, 6-0, 304.
In 2009: The Blue Jays are excited about the chance to compete at the 8-man level. A successful season as an independent would go a long way towards making an impact in 2010.
SIERRA GRANDE PANTHERS
Coach: Brandon Mizokami
2008 record: 2-3
Returning starters: Seven offense, seven defense
Last playoff appearance: 2005
Strengths: Upperclassmen heavy and improved at the skill positions.
Weakness: Varsity experience.
Players to watch: Nick LaFleur, Sr., RB-LB, 5-10, 175; Gabe Manzanares, Jr., RB-LB, 5-9, 160; Jacob Robbins, Sr., E-DE/DB, 6-0, 150; Carlos Roybal, So., G-LB, 5-10, 190.
In 2009: It’s all about getting ready for next year, when the Panthers re-enter the Mountain Division.
SOROCO RAMS
Coach: David Bruner
2008 record: 4-4
Returning starters: Four offense, three defense
Last playoff appearance: Never qualified in 8-man
Strengths: “The first year of 8-man is out of the way and we have a much better understanding of the game,” Bruner said. Depth.
Weaknesses: Running attack and a new center.
Players to watch: Jacob Hange, Jr., HB-LB, 5-9, 160; Cody Miles, Sr., QB-LB, 6-3, 190; Ben Strait, Jr., OL-DE, 6-1, 175; David Strait, Jr., OL-DE, 6-1, 165.
In 2009: The pride in rebuilding a program began last year and this year is improtant to the success the Rams will have once they do it for real in 2010.
