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Tri-Valley
FORT LUPTON BLUE DEVILS
• Coach: Justin Carpenter
• 2009 record: 1-9
• Returning starters: Offense 7; Defense 6
• Last playoff appearance: 2006, lost 3A opening round 28-0 to Steamboat Springs
• Strengths: Second year in new system
• Weaknesses: Lack of senior leadership
• Players to watch: Luke Brown, Jr., OL/DL, 6-3, 280; Tim Ornelas, Jr., OL/DL, 6-1, 225; Zach Reynolds, Sr., WR/DB, 6-3, 175; Clint Cook, Sr., RB/LB, 6-2, 225; Seth McCorkle, Jr., QB, 6-0, 160
• In 2010: Coach Carpenter moves into his second season at the helm of the Blue Devils. Adjusting to a much smaller Tri-Valley Conference, with just one automatic playoff berth will be a challenge even with 13 returning starters. Fort Lupton made strides at time in 2009, but making a push to the playoffs will be difficult with the likes of Windsor, Fort Morgan and Northridge to contend with in conference.
FORT MORGAN MUSTANGS
• Coach: Harrison Chisum
• 2009 record: 5-5
• Returning starters: Offense 5; Defense 5
• Last playoff appearance: 2008, lost 3A state championship game 23-14 to Glenwood Springs
• Strengths: Depth in several areas
• Weaknesses: Inexperience
• Players to watch: Aaron Anderson, Jr., QB, 6-2, 180; Jay Snyder, Sr., FS, 6-2, 185; Brandon Hoffman, Jr., MLB, 5-9, 170; Matt Godo, Jr., TB, 5-8, 170; Zach Carpenter, Sr., G/DE, 6-0, 215
• In 2010: The senior class is smaller than what Coach Chisum is used to, so the Mustangs will have to fill some shoes quickly. Fort Morgan should be solid, but the team may still be a year or two away from challenging Windsor in the Tri-Valley.
FREDERICK WARRIORS
• Coach: Thad Lear
• 2009 record: 4-6
• Returning starters: Offense 6; Defense 6
• Last playoff appearance: 2006, lost 3A opening round 12-7 to Englewood
• Strengths: Depth at skill positions, numbers
• Weaknesses: Unknown linemen
• Players to watch: Matt Lamb, Sr., QB/OLB, 5-10, 175; Jahde Lesnar, Sr., FB/LB, 5-10, 195; Dalton Hall, Jr., RB, 6-0, 175; Nick Romito, Sr., DB/KR, 5-11, 175; Jordan King, Jr., LB/RB, 6-2, 195
• In 2010: Excitement is in the air at Frederick. With the best freshman class Coach Lear has ever had, the Warriors could be a team to watch for over the next couple of years. Four or five sophomores will see plenty of playing time and the team returns kick returner Nick Romito, who was among the best in the state in return yardage in 2009. Frederick just may find itself back in the playoffs in the first time in four years.
NORTHRIDGE GRIZZLIES
• Coach: Jeff Fulton
• 2009 record: 5-5
• Returning starters: Offense 4; Defense 6
• Last playoff appearance: 2005, lost 3A opening round 21-20 to Rifle
• Strengths: Defense
• Weaknesses: Inexperience on offense at key spots
• Players to watch: Val Espino, Sr., MLB/TE, 6-1, 195; Zach Baxter, Sr., OL/DL, 6-2, 210; Derrick Drake, Sr., TB, 5-10, 165; Frank Olmstead, Sr., DE, 6-1, 170; Grant Spencer, Sr., DB/WR, 6-2, 205
• In 2010: Inexperience on offense is haunting for Northridge, which has to replace graduated quarterback Dalton Taylor. The defense has the capability of being really good and might have to be until the offense comes together. There will be a different look to the Grizzlies this season.
STERLING TIGERS
• Coach: Mark Bauder
• 2009 record: 0-10
• Returning starters: Offense 8; Defense 6
• Last playoff appearance: 2007, lost 3A state quarterfinals 28-17 to Berthoud
• Strengths: Offensive, defensive line; returning QB
• Weaknesses: Inexperienced secondary
• Players to watch: Alex Deardsley, Sr., QB/DB, 6-0, 170; Dalton Reinhardt, Sr., WR/DB, 5-10 175; Andrew Holsten, Sr., OL/DL, 5-10, 190; Jordan Suter, Sr., OL/DL, 6-0, 200; Jace Rhodes, Sr., RB/LB, 5-8, 180
• In 2010: Coach Bauder is definitely looking for a better season than last year. It’s hard for that not to happen, considering the Tigers were 0-10 a year ago. But Sterling was in a number of games until the end. The Tigers need to learn how to finish games, but that might be a challenge with Windsor, Fort Morgan, Frederick and Northridge on the schedule.
WINDSOR WIZARDS
• Coach: Chris Jones
• 2009 record: 9-3
• Returning starters: Offense 4; Defense 2
• Last playoff appearance: 2009, lost 3A state quarterfinals 31-7 to Steamboat Springs
• Strengths: Experience within system
• Weaknesses: Varsity playing experience
• Players to watch: Kail Voigt, Sr., FS, 6-1, 195; Joey O’Connor, Jr., OT, 6-3, 275; Aaron Schmidt, Jr., RB, 6-1, 188; Vanning Lobmeyer, Sr, FB, 5-9, 190; Tyler Winder, Sr., QB, 5-11, 185
• In 2010: Windsor lost a lot — A LOT — from last year’s team. But the Wizards’ base offense with a fluid running game and solid line play, led by junior Joey O’Connor, should keep Windsor at or near the top of the league standings. Windsor plugged in seven new offensive starters and eight on defense in 2009. So if the new faces learn the system there’s no reason the Wizards shouldn’t be competitive again.
Northern
BERTHOUD SPARTANS
• Coach: Dan McGinn
• 2009 record: 7-4
• Returning starters: Offense 5; Defense 5
• Last playoff appearance: 2009, lost 3A opening round 24-13 to Steamboat Springs
• Strengths: Offensive line experience
• Weaknesses: Inexperience at key positions on both sides
• Players to watch: Zach Rubesam, Jr., QB, 5-9, 170; J.T. Pickert, Sr., OL, 6-2, 220; Zach Smith, Sr., DL, 6-0, 195; Greg Hutchins, Jr., DB, 5-11, 160; Chad Johnson, Sr., DL, 5-9, 185; Colton Moore, Sr., DB/K/P, 5-11, 180
• In 2010: Expect Berthoud, as always, to be competitive, but the team can ill-afford any injuries. The Spartans only had 54 kids out for football this season and may be headed to 2A when the next cycle comes around. Even the town’s little league program lacked numbers this year. A perennial playoff contender, getting to the postseason may be a challenge for the 2007 3A state champions.
ERIE TIGERS
• Coach: Larry Gartrell
• 2009 record: 8-3
• Returning starters: Offense 8; Defense 7
• Last playoff appearance: 2009, lost 2A opening round 20-7 to Kent Denver
• Strengths: Senior class
• Weaknesses: Depth
• Players to watch: Justin Godfrey, Sr., G/LB, 6-4, 250; Billy Ilko, Sr., FB/LB, 6-2, 225; Zach Chambers, Sr., RB, 5-11, 170; Levi Hammett, Sr., RB, 5-11, 155; Derek Simeon, Sr., OL/DT, 6-2, 240
• In 2010: First, the bad news. Erie graduated quite a few seniors from last year’s 2A state playoff team. On the good side, however, the Tigers’ starting group should be as good as any around. But the team can ill-afford too many injuries. They’ll have to find a replacement for all-state running back Alex Ortega with seniors Zach Chambers and Levi Hammett being first in line to do so.
MOUNTAIN VIEW MOUNTAIN LIONS
• Coach: Bart Mayes
• 2009 record: 12-1
• Returning starters: Offense 6; Defense 6
• Last playoff appearance: 2009, lost 3A state semifinals 21-7 to Valor Christian
• Strengths: Playoff experience, returning QB
• Weaknesses: Inexperience on offensive, defensive line
• Players to watch: Brennan Stine, Sr., QB, 5-9, 160; Joey Hlushak, Sr., RB, 5-10, 170; Nick Black, Sr., DB, 5-10, 150; Danny Netzel, Sr., TE, 6-1, 197; Brandon Baeckel, Jr., LB, 6-0, 180
• In 2010: Could this be Mountain View’s year? The Mountain Lions certainly like their chances with Stine and Hlushak back in the fold. Yes, Coach Mayes’ team has its work cut out for it, but with 12 returning starters and playoff experience the past couple of years has Mountain View as one of the top teams early on being looked at as the hunted.
ROOSEVELT ROUGHRIDERS
• Coach: Ed Eastin
• 2009 record: 5-5
• Returning starters: Offense 6; Defense 4
• Last playoff appearance: 2008, lost 3A opening round 52-10 to Glenwood Springs
• Strengths: Good supporting class behind seniors
• Weaknesses: Inexperience
• Players to watch: Brandyn Hernandez, Sr., LB/RB, 6-0, 195; Bryan Bott, Sr., WR, 6-1, 170; Jason Lopez, Sr., RB/LB, 5-10, 180; Steve Frank, Jr., G, 5-10, 175; Marcus Holguin, Jr., DB/RB, 5-9, 165; Juan Sanchez, Jr., DL, 5-10, 185; Christian Kratz, Jr., RB, 5-9, 180
• In 2010: No team may have been so close as Roosevelt was a year ago. The RoughRiders lost five games in 2009 by a total of 15 points. With 12 seniors and 10 returning starters, Coach Eastin’s team has the look of a team that will be right there week in and week out.
SILVER CREEK RAPTORS
• Coach: Mike Apodaca
• 2009 record: 5-5
• Returning starters: Offense 4; Defense 7
• Last playoff appearance: 2005, lost 3A opening round 42-21 to Elizabeth
• Strengths: Returning starters on defense, offensive skill positions
• Weaknesses: Varsity experience for offensive line
• Players to watch: Keenan Olsen, Sr., RB, 5-10, 175; David Meuroth, Sr., LB, 6-1, 185; Seth Beck, Sr., OL, 6-2, 245; Austin Apodaca, Jr., QB, 6-2, 170; Ben Wooching, Jr., DL, 6-0, 300
• In 2010: Austin Apodaca, now a junior, is back to lead the Raptors, who face one of the most challenging schedules it’s seen in years, including an inner-city rivalry with Skyline. Health will be an issue as Silver Creek can ill-afford too many injuries. Defense will be key early on until the offensive line has time to jell.
SKYLINE FALCONS
• Coach: Kevin Rice
• 2009 record: 1-9
• Returning starters: Offense 5; Defense 4
• Last playoff appearance: 2000, lost 4A opening round 36-0 to Broomfield
• Strengths: Size, experience on offensive, defensive line
• Weaknesses: Lack of depth, experience at skill positions
• Players to watch: Matt Wilson, QB/LB, Sr., 6-2, 220; Kyle Czajkowski, DE/OT, Sr., 6-4, 200; Isiah Rivera, RB/CB, Sr., 5-9, 160; Trey Harrison, RB, Jr., 5-8, 150; Jordan Martinez, NT/G, Sr., 6-1, 230; Chico Feltenberger, NT, Jr., 6-4, 305
• In 2010: Skyline, 10 years removed from its last playoff appearance, moves down from 4A. But the Falcons aren’t fooled. They’re not expecting things to be any easier just because they’re in 3A now. Coach Rice has to find some skilled-position players on offense to take advantage of an experienced offensive line, starting with the team’s Sept. 3 opener vs. Longmont.
Metro South
CONIFER LOBOS
• Coach: Larry Fitzmaurice
• 2009 record: 7-4
• Returning starters: Offense 3; Defense 4
• Last playoff appearance: 2009, lost 3A opening round 12-7 to Falcon
• Strengths: Program’s tradition
• Weaknesses: Lack of experience, depth
• Players to watch: Cole Nichols, Sr., LB/OG, 6-1, 195; Don Fuller, Soph., LT, 6-5, 290; Matt Wright, Sr., TB, 5-6, 180; Patrick Marshall, Jr, FB, 5-9, 185; Steven Manning, Jr., LG, 6-0, 190
• In 2010: There are signs that this may be a rebuilding year of sort at Conifer with the team having just six seniors — only one in the starting lineup. But Coach Fitzmaurice hopes to use an early-season schedule that includes non-conference games vs. D’Evelyn, Centaurus and Holy Family — three potential powerful teams in the Metro North — to build toward conference play in the Metro South. The regular-season wraps up with back-to-back games at Elizabeth and at home against Evergreen.
ELIZABETH CARDINALS
• Coach: Chris Cline
• 2009 record: 8-3
• Returning starters: Offense 9; Defense 9
• Last playoff appearance: 2009, lost 3A opening round 24-3 to Glenwood Springs
• Strengths: Team experience, defense
• Weaknesses: Lack of size
• Players to watch: Matt Biery, Sr., FS/RB, 6-2, 190; Brad Goldsberry, Sr., RB/SS, 5-9, 170; Seth Tenyck, Sr. OL/DE, Sr., 6-2, 215; Dalton Taylor, Sr., DB/QB, 6-0, 185; Chase Cline, Sr., OL/DL, 5-10, 265; Sean Dorante, Sr., LB/TE, 6-2, 200; Eli McKinney, Jr, LB, 6-3, 215
• In 2010: Elizabeth thinks it should be pretty good and so does the rest of the state. Yes, the Cardinals must replace a couple of offensive linemen, but Coach Cline’s team should be able to handle teams up front, especially with 18 returning starters. Conifer, Evergreen and Summit may be their toughest challenges, but the Cardinals appear, on paper, to be the favorite in the Metro South.
ENGLEWOOD PIRATES
• Coach: Jay Graves
• 2009 record: 1-9
• Returning starters: Offense 5; Defense 5
• Last playoff appearance: 2006, lost 3A quarterfinals 17-0 to Summit
• Strengths: Senior class
• Weaknesses: Experience in heat of the battle, untested
• Players to watch: Dustin Fletcher, Sr., MLB/G, 6-0, 180; Michael Goodwin, Sr., DE/OT, 6-4, 235; Stephen Ross, Sr., SS/RB, 5-9, 160; Joel Pleiman, Sr., QB/MLB, 6-0, 225; Chris Nunnelly, Sr., CB/RB, 5-9, 160; Kevin Matthews, Sr., RB/OLB, 5-9, 170; John Waltz, Sr., TE/DE, 6-1, 195; Issac Santistevan, Jr., CB/QB, 5-8, 155
• In 2010: Coach Graves is back in the fold after working for Andy Lowry at Columbine in recent years. A former coach at Englewood, he comes back with the intent of getting the team back on track and back into the playoffs for the first time in four years. Englewood hopes to get some momentum going before facing league-favorites Elizabeth and Conifer late in the season.
EVERGREEN COUGARS–
• Coach: Rob Molholm
• 2009 record: 3-7
• Returning starters: Offense 9; Defense 9
• Last playoff appearance: 2004, lost 3A opening round 47-2 to Niwot
• Strengths: Varsity experience
• Weaknesses: Team doesn’t know exactly what it has
• Players to watch: Noah Ansley, Jr., QB.; Sam Keen, Sr., S; Harris Chalat, Sr., C/DT, 5-10, 225; Pete Thavis, Sr., OL/DL; Cole Evans, Sr., OL/LB; Trey Evans, Sr., TE/LB; Mike Rogers, Sr., DB/KR
• In 2010: This is year two for the Eagles and their new power running game. With Ansley in his second year running the offense and the Cougars not having to worry about the likes of Centaurus and D’Evelyn a few more wins in conference could be on tap. But a lot depends on the play of their offensive line setting blocks for the plethora of running backs Molholm has at his disposal to attack opposing defenses.
JEFFERSON SAINTS
• Coach: Francisco Lujan
• 2009 record: 0-10
• Returning starters: Offense 2; Defense 3
• Last playoff appearance: 1996
• Strengths: Young, enthusiastic group, numbers
• Weaknesses: Lack of senior leadership, knowledge of game
• Players to watch: Donovan Nichols, Jr., FB, 5-8, 160; Jiovanni Lucero, Fr., RB, 5-7, 150; Edward Kehoe, Jr., OL/DL, 6-2, 225; Manny Garcia, Jr., DB, 5-8, 158; Pablo Barrone, Jr., OL, 6-3, 260
• In 2010: Jefferson’s goal is a modest one — just to win one football game. You have to start somewhere, and that’s what the Saints, currently on an 18-game losing streak, are facing. A 26-6 win over Manual in Week 2 of the 2008 season was the last time Jefferson has tasted victory. Jefferson had 48 kids out for football, up from 26 a years ago.
RIDGEVIEW ACADEMY RAMS
• Coach: Jason Lane
• 2009 record: 4-6
• Returning starters: Offense 5; Defense 5
• Last playoff appearance: None
• Strengths: Speed
• Weaknesses: Lack of size
• Players to watch: Darren Mills, Jr., LB, 5-10, 185; Tyshawn Young, Sr., QB, 6-0, 180; Antonio Arrendando, Soph., LB/FB, 5-8, 185; Dashae Armstong, Soph., DL, 6-2, 250; Kelly Bailey, Sr., DE/FB, 6-1, 205; Courtney Page, Sr., RB/DB, 6-0, 190; Alan Heller, Soph., OL, 6-1, 205; Andre Hafer, Sr., RB/DB, 5-11, 190; Tanner Reed, Sr., OL, 6-3, 240
• In 2010: Making the playoffs is everybody’s goal, as it is for Ridgeview Academy. But the Rams, a school of corrections, faces annual turnover that makes it difficult to instill consistency in the football program. Nevertheless, Coach Lane is driven to make sure his team will compete on the field and so is his team.
SUMMIT TIGERS
• Coach: Dylan Hollingsworth
• 2009 record: 6-4
• Returning starters: Offense 3; Defense 2
• Last playoff appearance: 2008, lost 3A state quarterfinals 21-3 to Fort Morgan
• Strengths: Depth, varsity experience; loaded with juniors
• Weaknesses: Starting inexperience
• Players to watch: Cody Holland, Sr., LB/FB, 6-0, 220; Mike Daigle, Sr., RB/FS, 5-8, 155; Tyler Nelson, Jr., WR/DB, 5-11, 165; Trevor Barton, Sr., OL/DL, 5-11, 215; Matt Muramoto, Sr., FB/LB, 5-9, 170
• In 2010: Summit only brings back five starters total and expects to start anywhere from seven to eight juniors on each side of the ball. “We’re cautiously optimistic about the season. It’s important for us to get out to a quick start,” Hollingsworth said.
Metro North
ALAMEDA PIRATES
• Coach: Spencer Colter
• 2009 record: 4-6
• Returning starters: Offense 6; Defense 4
• Last playoff appearance: 1992
• Strengths: Offensive, defensive line
• Weaknesses: Lack of depth
• Players to watch: Edgar Juarez, Sr., OL/DL, 6-3, 265; John Chuong, Sr., OT/DT, 6-6, 290; Roger Pacheco, Sr., TB/DB, 5-10, 180; Vincent Morris, Sr., DB/WR/PR, 5-10, 170; Thomas Jaramillo, Sr., QB, 6-2, 180
• In 2010: Colter is in his first year at Alameda after spending the past 10 years at Boulder High School. He faces the stiff challenge of getting the Pirates back in the playoffs for the first time since 1992. His team, in his own words, is not good enough to underestimate its competition. The team hopes to get more players out, not just during the season but also during the offseason program.
ARVADA REDS
• Coach: Tom Baker
• 2009 record: 1-9
• Returning starters: Offense 5; Defense 5
• Last playoff appearance: 1991
• Strengths: Skill positions; defensive backs
• Weaknesses: Teaching OL how to play; depth
• Players to watch: Adam Williams, Sr., RB, 5-8, 180; Bo Vincelet, Jr., QB, 6-0, 170; Justin Platt, Sr., WR, 6-3, 180; Justin Underwood, Sr., MLB, 5-8, 190; Steven Milner, Sr., LB, 5-10, 185; Jerry Onjeng, Sr., WR, 6-1, 170
• In 2010: Coach Baker comes over after spending 15 years at D’Evelyn, including the past five as the team’s offensive coordinator. He attended Arvada High School his freshman year and hopes to get the team on track. Arvada hasn’t had a winning record since 1983. Baker’s goal is to end that drought sooner rather than later.
CENTAURUS WARRIORS
• Coach: Chad Senseney
• 2009 record: 6-4
• Returning starters: Offense 3; Defense 4
• Last playoff appearance: 2008, lost 3A opening round 40-26 to Berthoud
• Strengths: Skill position experience
• Weaknesses: Inexperience on offensive line
• Players to watch: Evan Erickson, Sr., QB, 5-10, 175; Cyrus Norwood, Sr., WR, 6-1, 175; Justin Sipes, Sr., RB, 5-8, 175; Shane Ellington, Jr., LB, 6-0, 215; Josh Perrin, Sr., DL, 6-2, 235
• In 2010: Coach Senseney believes his team, always a contender for postseason play, can fare pretty well in the new Metro North. The Warriors will find out quickly with a Week 4 matchup with Holy Family, coming up from 2A. The key will be staying healthy up front, where Centaurus must replace its entire offensive line. However, three of this year’s starters were key cogs on the defensive line in 2009.
D’EVELYN JAGUARS
• Coach: Jeremy Bennett
• 2009 record: 8-3
• Returning starters: Offense 5; Defense 6
• Last playoff appearance: 2009, lost 3A opening round 14-6 to Delta
• Strengths: Size of offensive line, passing game
• Weaknesses: Young in key spots
• Players to watch: Caleb Flack, Jr., QB, 6-2, 200; Clayton Vitek, Sr., OT, 6-4, 250; Joe Whittaker, Sr., WR/DB, 6-1, 205; Eric Garza, Sr., OL/DL, 6-3, 270; Zach Wendt, Jr., OL/DL, 6-5, 270; Matt Menard, Jr., WR, 6-0, 175
• In 2010: The goal never changes. It’s to win a league title. Coach Bennett’s squad, the deepest it’s ever been, should be right in the thick of things. The young, athletic group will spread the ball around with Flack returning at quarterback and as many as nine wide receivers who could see time when the team goes 4-wide.
DENVER NORTH VIKINGS
• Coach: E. Paul Kelly
• 2009 record: 0-10
• Returning starters: Offense 4; Defense 4
• Last playoff appearance: 1991
• Strengths: Solid on defense, especially at linebacker
• Weaknesses: Youth, inexperience
• Players to watch: Jaime Sosa, Sr., FB/DE, 6-0, 225; Chris Jackson, Sr., CB, 5-9, 170; Dylan Moran, Sr., HB/LB, 5-10, 175; Andrew Reese, Jr., HB/LB, 6-0, 185; Adonis Glover, Soph. WR, 6-1, 170
• In 2010: If there was ever a team full of hope it’s Denver North. Coach Kelly’s team moves down from 4A to 3A and has the kids buying into the program this season. Some 80 players came out this summer. Kelly believes his team, with the best coaching staff he said he’s ever had, could open some eyes this season. One thing for certain, after an 0-10 campaign in 2009, the Vikings can only go up.
HOLY FAMILY TIGERS
• Coach: Mike Gabriel
• 2009 record: 9-3
• Returning starters: Offense 1, Defense 7
• Last playoff appearance: 2009, lost 2A state quarterfinals 20-14 to Platte Canyon
• Strengths: Senior leadership
• Weaknesses: Lack of offensive experience
• Players to watch: Matt Miller, Sr., OL, 6-2, 225; Matthew McClain, Sr., DL, 6-2, 200; Zach Langfield, Sr., QB, 6-1, 170; Morgan Dorr, Sr., LB, 5-9, 195; Nate Golter, Sr., DB/WR, 6-2, 170
• In 2010: Don’t tell Holy Family just because it’s coming up from 2A that it can’t compete with the 3A boys. Coach Gabriel’s team, especially on defense, should give some of the other Metro North teams fits. Holy Family, which has been the playoffs the past 10 years, doesn’t plan on stopping anytime soon.
JOHN F. KENNEDY COMMANDERS
• Coach: Rich Martinez
• 2009 record: 3-7
• Returning starters: Offense 8, Defense 5
• Last playoff appearance: 1994
• Strengths: Varsity experience from last year
• Weaknesses: Depth; overall varsity experience
• Players to watch: Francisco Zarate, Jr., WR, 6-4, 195; Kyle Trinadad, Jr., RB, 5-9, 170; Andy Profitt, Jr., OL, 6-3, 265; Braden Miltenberger, Jr., QB, 6-0, 180; Kody Mansur, Soph., OL/DL, 6-4, 275
• In 2010: Tradition is not something JFK has, but it does come from playing in a tough 4A conference that saw the likes of Heritage and Wheat Ridge. So the Commanders may make some noise. They bring back 13 starters, but lack depth.
SKYVIEW WOLVERINES
• Coach: Bill Nelson
• 2009 record: 1-9
• Returning starters: Offense 6, Defense 5
• Last playoff appearance: 2003, lost 3A opening round 63-26 to Florence
• Strengths: Veteran experience
• Weaknesses: Depth
• Players to watch: Kyle Bowers, Jr., RB/LB, 6-1, 190; Carlos Urbina, Sr, OT/LB, 6-2, 215; Vince Maynes, Sr., TE/LB, 6-1, 180; Halkwat Abdulla, Sr., G, 5-8, 205; Drew Martinez, Jr., FS/SE, 6-2, 170
• In 2010: Coach Nelson is hopeful with a favorable schedule in non-league games that include the likes of Denver West and Arvada, teams he feels the Wolverines can compete with. But the team must stay healthy. Depth is an issue, particularly on the offensive line where the starters are solid but there aren’t enough of them.
South Central
• CANON CITY TIGERS
• Coach: Chris Coppa
• 2009 record: 6-5
• Returning starters: Offense 8; Defense 6
• Last playoff appearance: 2009, lost 3A opening round 45-13 to Valor Christian
• Strengths: Core of offensive line, linebackers
• Weaknesses: Lack of depth
• Players to watch: Jimmy Jaramillo, Sr., TB/LB, 5-9, 170; Austin Trahern, Sr., WR/DB, 5-10, 165; Nathan Lungu, Sr., WR/S, 5-11, 170; Paden Miles, Sr., TE/LB, 5-10, 170; Brandon Rix, Jr., TB/LB, 5-11, 185
• In 2010: Canon City, a playoff team a year ago, should be right in the thick of things again with 14 returning starters. But a lot depends on how healthy the Tigers can stay and whether or not Coach Coppa and his staff can develop some depth in case an injury or two pop up./
THE CLASSICAL ACADEMY TITANS
• Coach: Randy Pippin
• 2009 record: 8-3
• Returning starters: Offense 5; Defense 2
• Last playoff appearance: 2009, lost 2A opening round 19-13 to Platte Valley
• Strengths: Character, team speed, knowledge of strength
• Weaknesses: Size
• Players to watch: Brice Queener, Sr., QB/Athlete, 6-0, 180; Nathan Sassaman, Sr., WR/Athlete, 6-0, 180; Eric Wermuth, Sr., RB/DB, 5-10, 180; Ryan Gackle, Sr., LB, 6-1, 220; Ben Blaha, Sr., WR, 6-2, 180
• In 2010: Randy Pippin stays on as interim head coach this year after the hiring of Jody Jones, this year’s offensive coordinator who will take over as head coach full-time next season. TCA faces a numbers game as one of the smallest schools in the classification and fewer than 30 varsity players. But Pippin is looking forward to the challenge as his team, like many others, moves up from 2A.
CORONADO COUGARS
• Coach: Bob Lizarraga
• 2009 record: 0-10
• Returning starters: Offense 4; Defense 4
• Last playoff appearance: 1991
• Strengths: Effort, hard work in weight room, practice field
• Weaknesses: Lack of numbers
• Players to watch: Travis Michaels, Sr., RB/LB, 6-1, 180; Alan Medellin, Sr., OL/DL, 5-9, 220; Joey Hoffman, Sr., WR/CB/P, 5-9, 168; Jason Schmidt, Jr., RB/LB, 6-0, 188
• In 2010: The Cougars haven’t won a game since beating Pueblo East 38-23 on Sept. 13, 2007, a stretch of 27 games. But new head coach Bob Lizarraga was encouraged by the effort his team put in this offseason in the weight room and on the practice field. Now it’s just a matter of taking that hard work and transferring it over onto the playing field.
DISCOVERY CANYON THUNDER
• Coach: Shawn Mitchell
• 2009 record: 9-1
• Returning starters: Offense 9; Defense 10
• Last playoff appearance: None
• Strengths: Playing experience; offensive backfield
• Weaknesses: Inexperience playing in a classification
• Players to watch: Michael Ellsworth, Sr., RB/LB, 5-11, 185; Christian Fournier, Jr., RB/CB, 5-8, 150; Brady Chambers, Sr., QB, 5-9, 160; Nick Adams, Sr., FB/SS, 5-8, 150; Josh Bosseler, Sr., MLB/TE, 5-11, 195
• In 2010: Discovery Canyon, the Pioneer League champions a year ago while playing a developmental-league schedule, has its work cut out for it as it steps up the level of competition. The team returns everybody this year, the first senior class in the program’s brief history. That alone could be beneficial in whether or not the Thunder is ready for the next level.
LEWIS-PALMER RANGERS
• Coach: Tony Ramunno
• 2009 record: 7-3
• Returning starters: Offense 2; Defense 2
• Last playoff appearance: 2002, lost 4A quarterfinals 31-14 to Fruita Monument
• Strengths: Experience, strong-armed QB; speed
• Weaknesses: Inexperience
• Players to watch: Ben Shaum, Sr., QB/SS, 6-4, 175; Ryan Nickel, Sr., OL/DL, 6-4, 205; Jesse Vieira, Sr., Flanker/K/CB, 5-9, 155; Colton Goeas, Soph., RB/LB, 6-2, 205; Brandon Miller, Sr., RB/LB, 5-10, 175
• In 2010: Lewis-Palmer was almost a playoff team a year ago in 4A. What can the Rangers do dropping down a classification? The hope is there for Coach Ramunno’s team that it can finish in the middle of the pack, if not near the top. The Rangers will have to overcome a lack of varsity experience with just four starters returning.
PALMER RIDGE BEARS
• Coach: Monte Gutowski
• 2009 record: 5-5
• Returning starters: Offense 11; Defense 11
• Last playoff appearance: None
• Strengths: Cohesiveness of playing together
• Weaknesses: Football-playing inexperience
• Players to watch: Collin Babcock, Sr., TE/DE, 6-4, 215; Chris Paffett, Sr., RB/OLB, 6-1, 175; Jeremy Aquino, Sr., OL/DL, 6-2, 220; Mike Hamlin, Jr., FS/RB, 5-11, 185; Hunter Warwick, Sr., QB/DB, 6-3, 185
• In 2010: Palmer Ridge is in the same boat as Discovery Canyon. A former Pioneer League squad, the Bears have their first senior class this season. The focus is there as the team has eye-balled Harrison, its Week 1 opponent, for three months. It may take a lot to make a playoff push in its first season in 3A, but Palmer Ridge has high expectations it can do that.
PUEBLO CENTENNIAL BULLDOGS
• Coach: Mike Palumbo
• 2009 record: 6-5
• Returning starters: Offense 7; Defense 6
• Last playoff appearance: 2009, lost 3A opening round 40-7 to Mountain View
• Strengths: Experienced backfield
• Weaknesses: Young defense
• Players to watch: John Vela, Sr., RB/DB, 5-8, 160; R.J. Curtis, Sr., WR/DB, 6-1, 170; Daniel Winegardner, Sr., OL/LB, 5-11, 215; Ben Tillman, Jr., QB/LB, 5-10, 225; Luis Ramirez, Jr., FB/LB, 5-8, 180
• In 2010: Pueblo Centennial was a playoff team in 2009, despite starting seven sophomores. They’re all back and a year wiser, and the team has 13 returning starters overall as it eyes another playoff run. It won’t be easy with a non-conference schedule that includes Pueblo County and Pueblo Central and a Week 2 battle with league foe Pueblo East.
PUEBLO EAST EAGLES
• Coach: David Ramirez
• 2009 record: 5-5
• Returning starters: Offense 9; Defense 9
• Last playoff appearance: 2008, lost in 3A opening round 45-27 to Mountain View
• Strengths: Size, strength on line; experience at skill positions
• Weaknesses: Replacing Josh Sandoval and Spencer Torrez
• Players to watch: Patrick Smith, Sr., OL/DL, 6-3, 296; Darius Allen, Sr., DE/RB, 6-3, 215; Tre Pena, Jr., DT, 6-3, 305; Lawrance Lucero, Jr., RB/CB, 5-10, 155; Misha Milovidov, Sr., TE/LB, 6-3, 181
• In 2010: Pueblo East started 3-0 in 2009 and had the look of a playoff team. Then starting QB Dre Hall broke his ankle and the team lost five straight. Corey Laughlin, then a sophomore, finished out the year at QB and threw for 15 touchdowns. That brought the team together in how to deal with adversity and it has worked hard in the offseason in hopes that last year’s 3-0 start wasn’t a fluke.
Southern
HARRISON PANTHERS
• Coach: Al Melo
• 2009 record: 0-10
• Returning starters: Offense 8; Defense 8
• Last playoff appearance: 2006, lost 3A opening round 52-14 to Alamosa
• Strengths: Running game
• Weaknesses: Depth
• Players to watch: Dre Lester, Sr., RB, 5-8, 170; Vaughn Wingo, Jr., RB, 5-9, 150; Matt Brauer, Sr., TE/DE, 6-3, 230; Angel Villa, Sr., OL/DL, 6-0, 250; Kyle Dove, Sr., DB/WR, 5-8, 160
• In 2010: The Panthers returns their top two rushers — Lester and Wingo — and three offensive lineman, giving Harrison an experienced offensive attack. The concern is depth, but if Harrison’s starters, which includes eight returning defensive starters as well, can stop the opposition there may be hope. Harrison had games a season ago in which it scored 28, 29, 34 and 49 points — all losses.
MITCHELL MARAUDERS
• Coach: Archie Malloy III
• 2009 record: 4-6
• Returning starters: Offense 4; Defense 7
• Last playoff appearance: 2002, lost 4A quarterfinals 27-3 to Monarch
• Strengths: Defense
• Weaknesses: Offensive line
• Players to watch: Malik Birks, Sr., QB, 6-0, 180; Samad Ferrell, Sr., RB/LB, 5-10, 185; Dominic Martinez, Sr., DB, 6-0, 180; Anthony Maxwell, Sr., WR/FS, 6-0, 180; Aaron Quick, Jr., LB/FB, 5-10, 195
• In 2010: Defensively, Mitchell should be stout with seven returning starters. But Coach Malloy has the unenviable task of replacing stud running back MonDarrius Benson. Nevertheless, moving down from 4A to 3A, Mitchell hopes to be competitive, especially if it can shore up the offensive line.
PUEBLO CENTRAL WILDCATS
• Coach: Zach Odell
• 2009 record: 12-1
• Returning starters: Offense 6; Defense 5
• Last playoff appearance: 2009, lost 3A state semifinals 35-7 to Steamboat Springs
• Strengths: Running backs
• Weaknesses: Unproven offensive, defensive line
• Players to watch: Keanu Valdez, RB, Sr., 5-10, 195; Nick Eurich, SS/WR, Sr., 5-10, 180; Phillip Vigil, Sr., WR/CB, 5-9, 180; Derek Gallegos, Sr., TE/ILB, 5-10, 205; Daniel Vidana, Sr., WR/CB, 6-0, 180; James Martinez, Sr., QB, 5-8, 185
• In 2010: Odell, the team’s offensive coordinator for the past 10 years, takes over as the head coach with Dave Craddock moving up to become the school’s athletic director. Yes, the team lost veteran quarterback Max Lerille to graduation and will go with James Martinez, more of a bootleg-type signal-caller, but with 18 seniors on the roster and most of the skill-position guys back the Wildcats may not miss a beat.
PUEBLO COUNTY HORNETS
• Coach: Jeff Wilson
• 2009 record: 7-4
• Returning starters: Offense 5; Defense 5
• Last playoff appearance: 2009, lost 3A opening round 33-20 to Windsor
• Strengths: Work ethic, toughness
• Weaknesses: Lack of numbers, depth, injuries
• Players to watch: Mike Marino, Sr., OL/DL, 5-9, 190; Mitch Miller, Sr., RB/LB, 5-10, 175; Jose Salas, Sr., LB/TE, 5-10, 175; Mike Hasenack, Sr., RB/LB, 5-10, 185; Hank Martinez, Jr., RB/LB, 5-10, 200
• In 2010: Pueblo County has just four seniors and lost three others to season-ending injuries earlier this summer. But Jeff Wilson’s teams are used to playing both ways. Pueblo County will have to, more than ever, avoid the injury bug if it wants to challenge Pueblo Central for league honors and make another run to the playoffs.
SIERRA STALLIONS
• Coach: Joe Roskam
• 2009 record: 4-6
• Returning starters: Offense 6; Defense 7
• Last playoff appearance: 2008, lost 4A opening round 50-19 to Heritage
• Strengths: OL, DL; athleticism
• Weaknesses: Inexperience at skilled positions
• Players to watch: Willie Saunders, Sr., RB, 5-9, 180; Grady Sami, Sr., T, 6-4, 280; Chris Sterling, Sr., FS, 6-0, 175
• In 2010: Another transplant from 4A to 3A, the Stallions bring back 13 starters and are considered by many in the Southern Conference as a real threat for the league title. The question will be how quickly the team can get its offensive skill-position players up to speed.
VISTA RIDGE WOLVES
• Coach: Dean Huffman
• 2009 record: 7-3
• Returning starters: N/A
• Last playoff appearance: None
• Strengths: Senior class
• Weaknesses: Lack of playoff experience
• Players to watch: Austin Brown, Sr., WR, 6-3, 170; Jake Atkinson, Sr., WR/S, 5-10, 160; Tyree Walker, Jr., RB/CB, 5-11, 175
• In 2010: Vista Ridge moves into uncharted territory this season with not only its first senior class but into the 3A Southern Conference. The team’s success could depend on how the offense jells.
WASSON THUNDERBIRDS
• Coach: Harold Brown
• 2009 record: 1-9
• Returning starters: Offense 5; Defense 5
• Last playoff appearance: 2006, lost 4A opening round 33-6 to Wheat Ridge
• Strengths: Team speed
• Weaknesses: Depth, inexperience
• Players to watch: Chris Price, Sr., LB/RB, 5-11, 205; Trevon Lewis, Jr., DL/OL, 6-4, 245; Seth Brown, Jr., LB/RB, 5-10, 180; J.J. Lu, Sr., OL, 5-11, 215
• In 2010: Wasson, moving down from 4A, faces a depth issue, like most teams do. But Coach Brown is confident that his group can compete in league play if it stays healthy. But he knows it will be a challenge. The biggest concern is the lack of depth in the interior line, where Brown feels is the key to having success on the football field.
WOODLAND PARK PANTHERS
• Coach: Brent Cottrell
• 2009 record: 3-7
• Returning starters: Offense 4; Defense 5
• Last playoff appearance: 2000, lost 3A state championship 39-12 to Canon City
• Strengths: Speed in backfield
• Weaknesses: Undersized, depth
• Players to watch: Alex Fenlon, Sr., FB/DE, 6-0, 200; Kyle Lopez, Sr., QB, 6-3, 190; Michael Arseneau, Sr., OT, 6-1, 240; Shawn McMahill, Sr., TE/DL, 6-0, 200; Louie Neil, Jr., RB/DB, 6-3, 180
• In 2010: Woodland Park is a little inexperienced and undersized, but shows great work ethic, according to Coach Cottrell. The problem is a lot of teams, many of them unknown to the Panthers, are looking at Woodland Park as a homecoming opponent. It could be a long, learning year for the Panthers.
Western Slope
• BATTLE MOUNTAIN HUSKIES
• Coach: David Joyce
• 2009 record: 2-8
• Returning starters: N/A
• Last playoff appearance: 1991
• Strengths: Varsity experience
• Weaknesses: Lack of playoff success
• Players to watch: Jake Engle, Jr., QB/LB; Chris Liberteny, Jr., RB/S; Cody Hervert, Sr., WR; Jose Marin, Jr., LT
• In 2010: Battle Mountain faces an uphill climb yet again. Yes, the team has some varsity experience, but the Huskies haven’t made the playoffs in 19 seasons and with the likes of Glenwood Springs, Palisade and Delta standing in the way it may be a tough chore to get there in 2010 as well.
DELTA PANTHERS
• Coach: Ben Johnson
• 2009 record: 9-3
• Returning starters: N/A
• Last playoff appearance: 2009, lost 3A quarterfinals 34-7 to Pueblo Central
• Strengths: Senior leadership, playoff experience
• Weaknesses: Lack of tradition
• Players to watch: Michael Patton, Sr., RB/LB, 6-1, 225; Thomas Knob, Sr., RB/LB, 6-0, 220; Eric Fuentes, Sr., RB/DB, 5-8, 150; Garren Atchley, Sr., OL/DL, 6-1, 215
• In 2010: Delta made a surprising run to the state playoffs and even advanced to the quarterfinals last year. The team is in position to finish in the top three in the Western Slope Conference again behind second-year head coach Ben Johnson. The question is whether last year’s success was a fluke or not.
EAGLE VALLEY DEVILS
• Coach: John Ramunno
• 2009 record: 1-9
• Returning starters: Offense 6; Defense 6
• Last playoff appearance: 2005, lost 3A state quarterfinals 14-6 to Steamboat Springs
• Strengths: Returning OL, DL, running backs
• Weaknesses: Inexperience at QB, wide receivers
• Players to watch: Matt Kottenstette, Sr., RB/LB, 5-11, 182; Bryce Steggall, Sr., OT/DL, 6-0, 250; Zeth Ramsey, Sr., OT/DL, 6-7, 225; Rafael Macias, Sr., SS/RB, 5-10, 170
• In 2010: Eagle Valley is hoping to improve, but that’s easier said than done considering the inexperience the team has at its offensive skill positions. The Devils will use the run to set up the play-action pass. A strong line on both sides of the ball will help when facing the likes of Glenwood Springs and Palisade.
GLENWOOD SPRINGS DEMONS
• Coach: Rocky Whitworth
• 2009 record: 7-5
• Returning starters: Offense 3; Defense 4
• Last playoff appearance: 2009, lost 3A state quarterfinals 51-28 to Valor Christian
• Strengths: Linebackers
• Weaknesses: Inexperience at WR, OL
Players to watch: Nick Ciani, Sr., LB/OT, 6-2, 220; Chad Montever, Sr., LB/RB, 6-3, 210; Luke Jacobs, Sr., QB, 5-11, 170; Brian Ochoa, Jr., DE, 5-10, 240; Mike Mills, Jr. WR/DB, 5-9, 170
• In 2010: You want to get an early look at who might win the Western Slope crown look no further than Glenwood Springs’ league-opening game at Palisade on Sept. 23. Those Coach Whitworth returns just seven starters if the team can gain some early-season experience on the offensive line and in the receiving core another playoff appearance isn’t out of the question.
MOFFAT COUNTY BULLDOGS
• Coach: Kip Hafey
• 2009 record: 6-4
• Returning starters: Offense 4; Defense 4
• Last playoff appearance: 2006, lost 3A opening round 26-0 to Summit
• Strengths: Senior leadership, offensive line
• Weaknesses: Defense
• Players to watch: Braeden Sullivan, Jr., RB, 5-11, 140; Brady Conner, Sr., TE, 6-1, 202; Gage Spears, Sr., OL/DL, 5-9, 183; Justin Benedict, Sr., OL/DL, 6-1, 220
• In 2010: The Bulldogs have 13 seniors, including four on the offensive line, that should help the team, especially in the running game. And despite a season-opening loss to Evergreen, Coach Hafey is positive that his team can make a push for the playoffs. Moffat County just missed the postseason in 2009, despite a winning record.
PALISADE BULLDOGS
• Coach: John Arledge
• 2009 record: 6-5
• Returning starters: N/A
• Last playoff appearance: 2009, lost 3A opening round 34-0 to Pueblo Central
• Strengths: Playoff experience
• Weaknesses: Varsity running back experience
Players to watch: Luke McLean, Soph, QB; Zach McLean, OL; Isaac Cordova, Jr., RB; Jeremy Brannon, Sr. OL; Jamr Rhodes, Sr., S
• In 2010: Last year didn’t end quite like the Bulldogs would’ve liked with a shutout defeat in the first round of the playoffs, but Coach Arledge’s team is, at least according to other coaches around the state, in line to make a run back to the top of the 3A state rankings in 2010.
RIFLE BEARS
• Coach: Ryan Sulkowski
• 2009 record: 4-6
• Returning starters: Offense 2; Defense 2
• Last playoff appearance: 2007, lost 3A opening round 37-21 to Falcon
• Strengths: Offensive skill positions, defensive backs
• Weaknesses: Inexperience, especially on lines
• Players to watch: Caleb Lenard, Sr., TE/LB, 5-10, 210; Rian Creech, Sr., QB/TE, 6-2, 200; Ryan Moeller, Soph., RB/DB, 6-1, 180
• In 2010: Coach Sulkowski had Rifle going in the right direction in his first year at the helm, but the second year may be a tougher chore considering the team brings back just four starters.
STEAMBOAT SPRINGS SAILORS
• Coach: Lonn Clementson
• 2009 record: 13-1
• Returning starters: Offense 3; Defense 2
• Last playoff appearance: 2009, lost 3A state championship 41-14 to Valor Christian
• Strengths: Team speed, work ethic, overall team turnover
• Weaknesses: Inexperience, size
• Players to watch: Michael Savory, Sr., LB/QB, 6-1, 170; Drew Dummit, Sr., OL/DL, 6-1, 190; Connor Landusky, Sr., RB/LB, 6-1, 195
• In 2010: Lonn Clementon replaces Aaron Finch as head coach of the Sailors, who are coming off a run to the 3A state finals in 2009. The team has a number of holes to fill with just five returning starters and the loss of all-state QB Austin Hinder, who is now at the University of California.
