Volume 6 issue 1 by Bart Isley

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FOOTBALL PREVIEW

scr覺mmageplay THE CENTRAL VIRGINIA SPORTS AUTHORITY

VOL 6 . ISSUE 1 :: AUGUST 25, 2014

A bevy of running backs take over in Central Virginia Page 9

WHY D A S

Because you didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get your back-to-school shopping done before school started. You were too busy getting ready for the season.

Come into DAS and snag anything you need whether its shoes, shirts or shorts for back-to-school. www.downtownathletic.com 199 Zan Rd Charlottesville, VA 22901 (434) 975-2704

x’s and o’s 03

21 05 07

GETTING STARTED RIGHT Kicking off the year requires attention

SETTING THE STAGE Sizing up the volleyball season

ON THE CONTROL Football previews for 2014

VIRTUAL PASTIME Making sense of Madden and NCAA

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For Volleyball hed: Serving it Up deck: Photo: One of the smoke-ball shots

FOOTBALL PREVIEW

scrımmageplay the central virginia sports authority

VOL 6 . ISSUE 1 :: AUGUST 25, 2013

vol 6 . issue 1 :: august 25, 2014

A bevy of running backs take over in Central Virginia Page 9

S TA F F Bart Isley, Creative Director Bob Isley, Infrastructure Director Ryan Yemen, Creative Editor O N T H E COV E R Left to right: WMHS’ Cody Perkins, CHS’ Rashad Brock, WFS’ H.T. Minor M I S S I O N S TAT E M E N T Local sports are the lifeblood of every community in America, and we’re here to reach beyond the basics and give compelling accounts about Central Virginia athletes to our readers. CO N TAC T U S [ e ] info@scrimmageplay.com [ p ] 434-202-0553

Community Partnership

Working hand in hand with Red Shoes Cville to support the Ronald McDonald House of Charlottesville. Choose the Red Shoes Cville special at www.papajohns.com

PREGAME

Strong debut

Covenant’s Austin Llera celebrates during his team’s 20-7 win over Portsmouth. While most of the area kicks off football season in the next two weeks, Covenant was the first to officially begin their season with first year coach Dave Hart getting his team off to a 1-0 start. A senior running back, Llera had a busy day on the ground as he took 26 carries for 138 yards and scored a pair of touchdowns. For all our football previews, flip to page 9. ✖ (Photo by Ashley Thornton)

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Family

Corner PRESENTED BY

ABOVE » St. Anne’s-Befield’s Julia Haney is headed to Princeton next year. Haney is a classic example of a student athlete that wears many hats, but gets the job done on and off the field.

Getting started right There’s not a lot worse than feeling like you’re playing catch up. You’re always running — either literally or figuratively — when you’re behind the eight ball. The best way not to get to that point is to get out ahead of the game, and the start of a new school year is an excellent time to accomplish that. The assignments haven’t piled up just yet, you’re (fairly) well-rested and you’ve got an opportunity to get on top of everything so that when things do get more complicated, you’re ready to roll. Here are a couple of ways to get the school year started right. Plan it out. At Scrimmage Play we sit down before the year and try and get an idea for what stories we want to tell and when we want to tell them. Do we have to change it up later? Do stories come up that we’ve got to make room for? Absolutely. But that doesn’t

make the planning process any less valuable. Do the same thing with your year. Figure out whether it’s through a syllabus or asking your teacher the right questions when big tests or assignments are going to be due. Figure out when you’ve got games or practices and start by planning out through the end of September. That’s not too much to take on. Then throw some bigger mile markers out there too. Like if you’re a junior and you’re going to be taking the SAT, figure out when you’re going to do it and when you need to sign up. Next up, get involved in something new. Expanding your horizons beyond your usual routine at the beginning of the year can give you a major jump start and refresh your approach. Take it from Eli Manning, the Giants’ quarterback who’s learning an entirely new offense this year despite years of suc-

cess in the previous system — you’re more mentally engaged when you’re taking on a new challenge. So jump into a club you haven’t tried before and see what kind of connections you can make to other areas you’re pursuing. If you’re already overloaded with clubs, form a study group and include some students you don’t always talk to or aren’t your closest friends. Studies show conclusively that when you study in a group you’ll perform better on tests. You’ll learn more and engage with the material better. It’s also excellent practice for college where study groups are often the norm. Even if you feel like you know the material cold already, explaining fine points to fellow students will help you retain it and sharpen your own focus. You also never know what you’re going to pick up in those situations. Try and avoid playing catchup, because you miss a lot when you’re bouncing all over the place. It’s much better to come in with a plan because then you can adjust or correct course rather than getting capsized by the wave of work headed your way. ✖ Scrimmage Play and Triple C Camp are partnering to cover family issues related to youth and prep sports in our new Family Corner.

Bart Isley,

CRE ATIVE DIRECTOR

www.scrimmageplay.com :: 04

First Quarter The next phase

Two vastly improved programs get new coaches By Bart Isley

Madison’s Cassity Lacy returns to one of the few programs that isn’t rebuilding. (John Berry)

{ SENIORS } MADISON COUNTY

WILLIAM MONROE

LOUISA COUNT Y

FLUVANNA COUNTY

05 :: @scrimmageplay

K AR A EL DER

The programs with the most upperclassmen entering 2014

nless you’re at Madison County, William Monroe or Fluvanna County jersey, the odds are that your volleyball program is going through some fairly serious retooling.

The class of 2014 left a big wake behind after its graduation, most especially in the Jefferson District where a once very predictable group of teams will now deal with some uncertainty. Madison has the potential to put together a deep playoff run as it comes off a 24-3 finish last year with four starters back. Logan Coates and Bailey Colvin lead the way as setters while Sheridan Santinga and Cassity Lacy provide the fire power upfront. All four are seniors. The Mountaineers went 16-0 in the Bull Run last year and only ever lost to one team, Luray with the third and final loss coming in the Region 2A East quarterfinals. Of course the Mountaineers should be the toughest foe in the Bull Run, but William Monroe could also make waves. With five of six starters back including Kelsey Shifflett, Olivia Shifflett up front, Kaleigh Breeden at setter and Morgan Lawson and Lindsay Morris on the back line, the Dragons have experience and depth. While the Bull Run is currently pretty cut and dry, the JD is an entirely different story. Parity is never a bad thing, and we could well see a good bit of it this year. For starters, the team with the most ammunition back from last year isn’t Albemarle or Western Albemarle. It’s Fluvanna as Maddy Kline leads an experienced group that qualified for the Region 4A North playoffs. With setter Kate Stutz back, the Flucos are in good shape. Over at Albemarle, the most dominant program in Central Virginia the last two seasons, the entire front line is brand new.

Ellie Benning and Taylor Bauman are the lone returning starters, and exceptional ones at that as the Patriots setter and libero, respectively. It’ll be up to them to bring along Albemarle young group of hitters, but in his 30 years at Albemarle, coach Mark Ragland has always found a way to rebuild after an exodus. At Western Albemarle, coach Ron Pack only lost two starters, but still has a young group. He’ll look to senior libero Christina Blount to lead the way as a slew of newcoming hitters try and provide a jolt. Monticello has three freshman looking to make waves in Amaya Gibson, Simrin Goodman and Mikayla Tolley to try and aid junior Katie Devin and senior Taylor Scott. The Mustangs, as one coach put it, could well be the JD’s dark horse. As each coach pointed out, Powhatan sits in familiar position after two years of reconfiguring. And at Louisa County, six seniors return for the Lions with junior Michaela Gibson also back in the fold. Familiar storylines have always played themselves out over the last half decade in volleyball. Something might be up in 2014, but there are a lot of traditional volleyball powers doing all they can to keep the status quo. And there are a lot of teams hungry to shake things up a bit. ✖

go online »

For more volleyball head to our website at: www.scrimmageplay.com.

College Update

We’ve gone digital But you can have it in print too!

Davis and Dukes start fresh By Bart Isley His senior year at Charlottesville will forever be pointed to for any athlete wondering what might happen if you’re a little bit of a late bloomer. Rashard Davis, a track and field standout, got his chance at quarterback as a senior and put together a magical season, throwing for 1,074 yards and 15 touchdowns while running for 1,383 yards and 17 more TDs. It was enough to put the Black Knights in the playoffs for the first time in 10 years. It was also enough to draw James Madison University’s attention. Davis earned a late offer to play for the Dukes, and despite being a little green, he played as a true freshman as a wide receiver in 2013. He caught 12 passes and piled up 173 yards while he also rushed for 124 yards on eight carries, including a 36-yard TD run against Charlotte. Now a sophomore, Davis could be featured more heavily as he looks to build upon a solid freshman campaign. Former Georgia Tech quarterback Vad Lee transferred to the team this year and Davis will have to build a repu-

tation with a signal caller that has formerly stated he wants to prove himself as a passer. That could bode well for Davis as he’s a perfect option in the slot. Davis isn’t the only former Central Virginia standout looking to make an impact for the Dukes. Woodberry graduate Hunter Etheridge is on the roster as a freshman quarterback and his twin brother Ryan from Blue Ridge is a freshman defensive lineman. After redshirting his freshman year, Fork Union’s Brett Seigel is playing at long snapper. Another redshirt freshman, STAB’s Aaron Stinnie will line up at defensive tackle. With Everette Withers taking over for former coach Mickey Mathews, the Dukes are trying to change the direction of the program which is not far removed from being a regular semifinalist in the FCS playoffs. Central Virginia has a vested interested in just how well Withers gets this program back atop a highly competitive Colonial Athletic Association. ✖

HOW TO GET A PHYSICAL COPY OF SCRIMMAGE PLAY Step 1 :: Click here and head to the MagCloud version of the magazine. It’s going to look like this below:

BELOW » Now playing for JMU, Charlottesville alum Rashard Davis looks to build upon his production after his freshman year at James Madison. (File)

Step 2 :: Click the Buy Print button next to the magazine and follow instructions to order Step 3 :: Wait patiently by your mailbox Step 4 :: When it arrives, take it out and read or stash away to your heart’s delight!

www.scrimmageplay.com :: 06

on the control

I Stories by Bart Isley & Ryan Yemen Portraits by John Berry

07 7 :::: @scrimmageplay @scrimmageplay

2014 football p r e v i e w

hen you’re playing Madden, playing with a top-notch running back is a blast and it’s been that way since Bo Jackson lined up on Tecmo Bowl. In Madden, running backs can sprint, they can spin, they can dive, they can stiff arm and they can just flat out run over people. A wide receiver may be able

to do a little of that after the catch but they can’t bring the noise like a great running back. This year a slew of teams boast dynamic ball carriers (some two or more) set to wreak havoc and keep local defensive coordinators awake until the wee hours of Friday morning because of those running backs’ own live version of those Madden exploits. We’ve got a trio of standouts who have already established their credentials among that incredible group of athletes running the ball this year across the region. There’s Charlottesville’s Rashad Brock who has for two years now watched Chris Thurston tote the ball for the Black Knights and appears ready to fully take on that mantle as CHS’s lead back. There’s William Monroe’s Cody Perkins who shares the backfield with another quality rusher in Tylek Burley. And there’s the explosive H.T. Minor who is a big reason Woodberry Forest went 8-1 in 2013. Along with players like Monticello’s Kyree Koonce, Fork Union’s Rashon Torrence, Covenant’s Austin Llera and Louisa’s Trey Cherry, these three backs prove beyond a shadow of a doubt that locally, this is the year of the running back.

www.scrimmageplay.com ::

ALBEMARLE

PATRIOTS

Patriots restart with Isaiah at helm

Does An Injury Does An Injury Have You Have You Sidelined? Sidelined? JEFFERSON DISTRICT, 2013 RECORD: 6-5

9/5 9/12 9/19 9/26 10/3 10/10 10/17 10/22 10/31 11/7

@ vs. @ vs. @ vs. @ vs. @ vs.

Massaponax Stafford Patrick Henry Fluvanna County Western Albemarle Powhatan Charlottesville Monticello Louisa County Orange County

WHO’S GONE: RYAN LONDREE (OL/DL), DOMINIQUE TALLEY (RB), JORDAN SHELTON (LB), MATT CRIST (WR/DB), DRAKE BRYANT (RB/LB), KEVIN BERNARDINO (WR/DB)

It was such a massive class that there’s really no easy way to go about filling all the holes. First year coach Brandon Isaiah is taking over an Albemarle team that put together one of the feel-good stories last year as they finally made the playoffs after years of being on the outside looking in. The former Monticello and Charlottesville assistant takes over a program that has a different attitude than it did just a few years ago. With Matt Crist, Kevin Benardino, Dominique Talley and Ryan Londree all gone, this offense is going to look different. However, junior D.G. Archer has the talent and the opportunity to put together a breakout season at quarterback. Of particular importance is that the Patriots have Jesus Lazo, Andrew Mayo, Tyler Prince back on the offensive line. Taking over for Talley at running back is Kevin McCarthy who is a standout sprinter for Albemarle’s vaunted track and field program. He’s a big, upright runner that should pile up the yards with ease, especially with an experienced line in front of him. Aruna Turay will help out and pick up some carries as well. While Archer is a good threat on the ground, the key for him will be developing chemistry with new wide receivers like Ethan Blundin and Ryan

GET BACK IN THE GET BACK IN THE GAME THIS SEASON WHO’S BACK: D.G. ARCHER (QB, PICTURED BELOW), NEMO LESESANE (DT), ANDREW MAYO (OL), KEVIN MCCARTHY (RB), CAMERON GREEN (DB)

GAME THIS SEASON WHO’S NEW: ETAHN BLUNDIN (WR)

Hooper. The Patriots’ ability the throw the last two years was huge. If teams key in on McCarthy and the ground game too much, Archer should be able to capitalize. On the other side of the ball, essentially the entire secondary except for interception machine Cameron Green and linebacking corps have turned over. The Patriots strength on defense is up front where it returns Nemo Lesesane who had an outstanding season last year at defensive tackle. After that though, Albemarle has to round things out as it was its defense in the second half of the season that pushed them over the top. One name to note that has joined Isaiah’s staff is former Monticello coach Rodney Redd. The two worked together while Redd was coach for the Mustangs in 2011 and 2012 and went 18-7. He’s part of a revamped staff that’s a good mix of the old staff and new, which should provide continuity. The Patriots have a lot of ironing out to do, particularly on defense, but the program looks to be moving forward. Should the offensive line handle business up front, Albemarle could be a big player in the JD again this year, especially with all the turnover that took place in the other programs. ✖

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Success stories begin here.

Success Story: Max Valles Max Valles hails from Sicklerville, New Jersey. He arrived at the University of Virginia in 2013 after spending 2012 in Fork Union playing for coach Mark Shuman’s post graduate team. In high school he was all over the place, playing wide receiver, defensive end and safety. At FUMA he was fine tuned to make the most of his 6-foot-5, 240-pound frame as a linebacker. He also became acclimated with the collegiate style academics that Fork Union offers to prepare students for what lies ahead when they make the leap. Valles took to the water quickly when he arrived at UVa. As a freshman, he played in 10 of the Cavaliers 12 games. But even in the two games he didn’t play in, he made an impact as he played defensive scout as Bringham Young University’s Kyle Van Noy, a second round selection for the Detriot

Lions in the 2014 NFL Draft. In his college debut, Valles broke up a pass against Virginia Millitary Institute. Weeks later he earned a start against Pittsburgh where he amassed five tackles and had 2.5 sacks. After that he had a trio of tackles and a pair of passes defended when Virginia played Ball State. Against Georgia Tech he had five tackles and picked up a fumble. And facing Virginia Tech, Valles and 1.5 sacks, forced a fumble and broke up a pass. As just a sophomore at UVa, Valles’ collegiate career is still very much in development, but he’s already shown he has the tools to be one of the Cavaliers’ most valuable pass rushers on a team with an emerging defense. He was one of 12 freshmen to take the field in 2013 for coach Mike London. In 2014 the outside linebacker looks to have a breakout out year.

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Like many of Central Virginia’s top student athletes, finding a minute or two of Fluvanna County senior Zack Kent’s time may be an extreme challenge. Kent plays varsity football, serving as a wideout for the Flucos, and also lines up for the Fluvanna lacrosse team that made a huge leap last year to reach the .500 mark in just its third year of competition. He also plays club ice hockey. He’s taken or is taking eight AP courses, three dual enrollment classes and is a member of the Beta Club, National Honor Society and went to Boys State, and it’s clear Kent is a very busy guy. Throw in volunteering at his church and it’s clear that Kent is a busy, busy guy. He’s also handling all of that extremely well as he’s ranked No. 1 in the senior class at Fluvanna currently.

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Flucos to retool once again Last year, Fluvanna County had several key linemen back, and stumbled to a one-win campaign. This year, they’ve got several playmakers back in the fold, and they’ll try and turn that into a more productive season in Jason Barnett’s fifth year at the helm. Macen Dahl leads the way for that group of playmakers, coming off a 41-catch, 409-yard campaign as a junior while the Flucos shuffled quarterbacks and struggled to find consistency on offense. Getting the ball in Dahl’s hands will be the top priority in the passing game, and that’ll be up to Gavin Patrick, who is slated to take control of the offense after playing in eight games as a quarterback during his sophomore year. By letting Patrick settle in at quarterback, the Flucos can turn the ground game duties over to Mark Grooms and Jameel Wilson. Grooms has the potential to be a dynamic playmaker as he started some games at quarterback as a freshman and produced on the ground in a big way at times including a 104-yard first half performance against Western Albemarle. Beyond Dahl, Alec Turley and Jake Mooney could also make an impact at receiver. Turley has been in the varsity mix for three years now while

Mooney joins the squad this year after a strong spring in lacrosse. Up front, Brenden Goode, a three-year starter, will anchor the offensive line. The Flucos will have to mold some less-experienced players around him, but if they can, the skill position players have the potential to make some noise. Defensively, replacing leading tackler Jesse Lokits and standout defensive tackle Deiondre Key up the middle of the unit won’t be an easy task. But Luke Norcross returns at linebacker and he gives the Flucos someone to build around. Grooms and Wilson will likely play a big role in the secondary. The key for the Flucos will likely be the same as it has been the past few years—find an identity and play within that identity. Fluvanna has struggled to establish what kind of squad they want to be and it’s landed them in some tough situations against an increasingly tough Jefferson District slate. The Flucos could manage a turnaround in 2014. If Fluvanna can find its own identity early on against William Fleming and Spotsylvania, it’ll go a long way toward jumpstarting the squad’s campaign and making sure that crop of returning playmakers makes the most of this year. ✖

FLUVANNA COUNTY

FLYIN’ FLUCOS JEFFERSON DISTRICT, 2013 RECORD: 1-9 8/29 9/5 9/19 9/26 10/3 10/10 10/17 10/24 10/31 11/7

@ vs. @ @ vs. @ vs. vs. @ vs.

William Flemming Spotsylvania Culpeper Albemarle Orange County Monticello Louisa County Powhatan Charlottesville Western Albemarle

WHO’S GONE: JESSE VANDYKE (WR/DB), JESSE LOKITS (LB), DEIONDRE KEY (DL) WHO’S BACK: MARK GROOMS (RB/DB, PICTURED BELOW), MACEN DAHL (WR) BRENDAN GOODE (OL), PETER LACEY (LB), GAVIN PATRICK (QB) MARCUS DITTA (LB/K), ALEC TURLEY (WR/DB) WHO’S NEW: JAKE MOONEY (WR/LB), VINNY AGEE (ATH)

LOUISA COUNTY

Lions start anew with Fischer

LIONS

New (but old) coach Mark Fischer made it clear from the time his Louisa County football team set foot on the field at the school’s traditional Midnight Madness practice that it was up to the players to improve Louisa’s football program. The Lions have quite a few good ones to lean on as Fischer returns to coach the Lions again after three years in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Louisa stumbled to a 3-7 record last year in part because of some key injuries and because they were young at critical positions. Last year’s youth should pay dividends this year as the Lions bring experience back at a wealth of positions, though some of those experienced players will be moving around on offense. Trey Cherry, last year’s quarterback and the most dynamic rushing presence after the injury to Markel Groomes, moves to a slot/wingback position that he’s likely better suited for. He rushed for 1,030 yards and nine touchdowns as the quarterback but threw for just three touchdowns. In Fischer’s previous stint at Louisa, the single wing run game has been king, but don’t be surprised to see some new formations and wrinkles that he picked up while coaching in one of the nation’s

8/29 9/12 9/19 9/26 10/3 10/10 10/17 10/24 10/31 11/7

talent hot beds down in South Carolina. But Cherry’s presence should help give Louisa’s rushing attack a foundation to build on. Deion Jackson, Demetrius Washington, D’Jon Shelton and Josh Grady will all also factor into the mix at running back while Noah Verling and Malik Johnson, bookend junior tackles who are returning starters, give the Lions something to build around up front. Verling is a physical monster at 330 pounds and with his solid footwork and improvement in the offseason, should pave the way for the Lions. Defensively, replacing Deion Johnson, an extremely talented high school cornerback, will be a challenge in the secondary and undersized but extremely productive lineman R.J. Jackson also graduated. Still, the linebackers are an experienced unit with captain Brian Townes in the middle, Washington and Cooper Yancey outside. That unit will play a big role in determining the Lions’ success this year. What the Lions are able to do in 2014, however, will come down to how quickly they can reacclimate to Fischer’s style and system. If they’re able to do that, the Lions will be a potential trouble spot for Jefferson District foes. ✖

JEFFERSON DISTRICT, 2013 RECORD: 3-7 vs. @ vs. vs. @ vs. @ @ vs. @

Spotsylvania Courtland King George Charlottesville Powhatan Western Albemarle Fluvanna County Orange County Albemarle Monticello

WHO’S GONE: MARKEL GROOMES (RB), DEION JOHNSON (RB/DB) WHO’S BACK: DEION JACKSON (RB/LB, PICTURED BELOW), TREY CHERRY (RB/ DB), BRIAN TOWNES (TE/LB), DEMETRIUS WASHINGTON (RB/LB), NOAH VERLING (OL/ DL), MALIK JOHNSON (OL/DL), JAVON JACKSON (TE/DL) WHO’S NEW: D’JON SHELTON (RB/DB)

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STUDENTS FIRST

CHAMPIONS NEXT

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Mustangs flip the script In his first year at the helm for Monticello, coach Jeff Woody turned the Mustangs into an offensive juggernaut. Now in year two he’ll look to keep things rolling, but will have to do so with a roster that turned over the bulk of its skill position players. However, there’s been a plan in place for quite some time now. The good news for Monticello is that it’s getting one of the area’s most electric athletes back. Kyree Koonce missed the second half of the season with a broken leg in 2013. He’s healthy now and gives the Mustangs instant credibility on offense as it looks at life without TJ Tillery at running back and Josh Malm and Alex McNair at receiver. Koonce was averaging 12.3 yards per carry before he went down with the injury. Darian Bates also returns and provides this team with another strong option at running back. The Mustangs have the right half of last year’s offensive line returning, so look for the rushing game to be in solid shape out of the gate. The big change on offense looks to come from Daniel Hummel. The sophomore has been groomed at quarterback and spent last season working on learning Woody’s system instead of being thrown into the fire at the varsity level. A dual threat

athlete, he gives Monticello flexibility and another playmaker in its backfield. Seth Weaver is back at wide receiver, but the rest of that unit, much like Hummell, is a work in progress. While the story of this season will revolve around Monticello’s development offensively, the heart and soul of this team actually rests on defense as eight starters return to a unit that looks to build on the improvements it made from 2012 to 2013. The linebacking corps is particularly strong with Seth Miles, Griffin Davis and Bryce McGlothlin all back. The defensive line has experience and size with Rashad Brooks and Morgan Wilson returning as starters. And in the secondary, while Tillery will be especially missed there, some mix of Syrell Breckenridge, Michael Crenshaw and Jeonte Banks and Bates should be able to handle the work load in a Jefferson District that graduated most of its productive wideouts. With that defense, Monticello has something it can fall back on should things take time offensively. But between Koonce, Bates and Hummel, it doesn’t look like there will be too much of a learning curve for this offense. And as such, Monticello looks poised to pick up right where it left off. ✖

Hornets look to make progress After going 2-8 in his first season as coach at Orange County, Keita Malloy is focused in on one thing, and understandably so. Malloy is hell bent on trying to make the Hornets more effective on defense at every position on the field from the inside out. When you give up more than 40 points in seven of 10 games, that has to be the focus. According to Malloy, the only issues standing in his team’s way from being strong defensively are toughness and execution. The Hornets don’t have a lot of size, but they do have a handful of capable athletes and reasonable team speed as they always have in the past. Keith Ellis brings speed to the secondary. Trayvon Smith’s return at linebacker and having Treyvon Felton back on the line should help the interior of the defense take steps forward. On the other side of the ball, the key is trying to find a way to get the ball to Ellis in space. Malloy and his staff spent training camp looking to do that in a number of ways, whether it means putting him under center at quarterback, in the backfield as a running back, or on the edge as a

receiver. With two-year starter Garret Johnson transferring out of the school system, the Hornets are left with a significant hole at quarterback. Look for Ellis and Nick Morgan to take the bulk of the snaps there. Joining either in the backfield will be Smith and Deangelo Hunt who both will be featured at running back. This is a team still trying to regain the status it held not so long ago under during the Bradley Starks and Quintin Hunter eras. While it might take some time, Orange finished last year on a bright note. In the second to last week it tested Monticello deep into the contest, then in the season finale Orange defeated an Albemarle team that qualified for the Region 5A North playoffs. The Hornets get three of their first three games of the season at home before jumping into Jefferson District play with Western Albemarle and Fluvanna County, both of whom are retooling. Orange has a decent chance at putting together a solid record in the first half of its season.But to do so, the Hornets have to be better on defense and Malloy is hard at work on making that happen one step at a time. ✖

MONTICELLO

MUSTANGS

JEFFERSON DISTRICT, 2013 RECORD: 10-2 9/5 9/12 9/19 9/26 10/3 10/10 10/17 10/24 10/31 11/7

vs. vs. vs. vs. @ vs. @ @ vs. vs.

George Wythe Fork Union Turner Ashby Powhatan Charlottesville Fluvanna County Western Albemarle Albemarle Orange Louisa County

WHO’S GONE: JOSH MALM (WR/K), TJ TILLERY (RB/DB), ALEX MCNAIR (WR), JAMES ST. HILL (QB) WHO’S BACK: KYREE KOONCE (RB PICTURED BELOW), ZACH DIGREGORIO (WR), SETH MILES (LB), DARIAN BATES (RB), MICHAEL CRENSHAW (DB) WHO’S NEW: DANIEL HUMMEL (QB), ALEX CURRY (OL)

ORANGE COUNTY

HORNETS

JEFFERSON DISTRICT, 2013 RECORD: 2-8 9/5 9/12 9/19 9/26 10/3 10/10 10/17 10/24 10/31 11/7

@ vs. vs. vs. @ vs. @ vs. @ @

Liberty Bealton Eastern View Riverbend Western Albemarle Fluvanna County Charlottesville Powhatan Louisa County Monticello Albemarle

WHO’S GONE: ISAIAH FERGUSON (RB/DB), BEN HARGETT (OL), GARRET JOHNSON (QB) WHO’S BACK: KEITH ELLIS (QB/WR/RB/DB, PICTURED BELOW), TRAYVON SMITH (RB/ LB), TREYVON FELTON (OL/DL) WHO’S NEW: DEANGELO HUNT (RB/DB), NICK MORGAN (QB)

www.scrimmageplay.com :: 14

Dive

I Square

o II

RASHAD BROCK

Junior Charlottesville

IT WAS ALMOST a shame that Charlottesville only had one ball to split between Rashad Brock and Chris Thurston as the two both brought amazing athleticism to the Black Knights backfield. Now with Thurston having graduated, the ball is now officially all Brock’s, and after an explosive sophomore campaign where he eclipsed the 1,000-yard mark, look for the junior to be especially busy this year. As a runner, Brock has all the tools a coach could possibly want. He’s lightning fast, runs well between the tackles and is particularly difficult to bring down, much in the way Thurston was during his time with Charlottesville. One of the things the Black Knights saw last year from Brock was his ability to stretch out for those extra yards, whether for a first down or to punch the ball into the end zone. As Charlottesville adjusts with a retooled offensive line, it’s going to need all the extra effort that Brock has in him — and that’s almost a seemingly endless supply — to make sure this offense capitalizes on its explosive nature. The ball will be in Brock’s hands early and often this year. If his offensive line develops quickly, there’s no telling what kind of production this playmaker might put up. ✖

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www.scrimmageplay.com :: 15

Warriors regroup with new core After a pair of 9-1 regular seasons that started his tenure at Western Albemarle, it’d be easy to think that Ed Redmond has re-molded the Warriors, successfully, in his image. And there’s no question he has had a monster impact at Western, finetuning and adapting a machine that seemed ready to hum when he took over in 2012. But this year we may get to see Redmond’s fingerprints on a lot more of the Warriors’ identity as Western looks to emerge strong in the post-Kent Henry era. Redmond is adamant that the Warriors have to hang their hat on their ability to stop people defensively, and while the defense has been up and down over the last couple of years, they may be poised to take a big leap forward this year. There are returners all over that unit, including Osiris Crutchfield, who emerged as a major pass rushing threat last year, and Sam Carey, who’s a space eater in the middle. Carey and Matt Wozneak’s size inside should help open things up for linebackers Logan Sprouse, Josh Meeks, Matthew Mullin and Stephen Kuzjak, who should all make a lot of plays from that spot. With that group back intact in the front seven,

that should allow the Warriors some time to answer the questions they have in the secondary, which is a mirror image of a depleted wide receiving corps that is creating some interesting questions on the other side of the ball. Not only did Henry and his 100-plus touchdowns graduate, but so did three top-notch receivers from 2013 in Steven Hearn, Chase Stokes and Nic Drapanas as well as two other pass catchers in Dylan Curry and Burks Summers. With that much firepower gone, a lot of the offense falls to Oliver Herndon, who will need to carry more of the load at tailback. He’ll benefit from Carey and Sprouse being back up front to clear the way. The triggerman at quarterback remains a little up in the air as the Warriors sort through two athletic options in Sam Hearn and Henry Kreienbaum. If one of those two can emerge to steady the offense and find a rhythm with a new crop of wideouts, Western will be in position to continue its string of playoff appearances as has become the expectation out in Crozet. With a defense that may be the team’s calling card, 2014 could be a particularly interesting year for the Warriors. ✖

Black Knights remodel interior You would think that you could not graduate the kind of athleticism and talent Charlottesville did after the 2013 season and be in pretty good shape. You don’t lose a four-year standout like Chris Thurston, an outstanding receiver in Leon Straus, the bulk of the offensive line and get better. But the cupboard is hardly bare for the Black Knights as they head into 2014 looking to make the postseason for a third straight season in coach Eric Sherry’s fourth year at the school. The key for Charlottesville starts with its offensive line. The loss of Wade Kammauff, Will White and Jeremiah Jordan is going to be felt. It’ll be up to Troy Hughes and Shannon Pritchett to lead the way for this young group that has a promising talent in sophomore J.D. Buckholz. Should this unit find its way, all of the sudden the Black Knights start to look pretty strong offensively as junior Rashad Brock is one of the area’s elite running backs. While the quarterback situation looked to be solved with Micah Girstantas taking the job, a broken collar bone in training camp ended his season. That’ll be a big question mark now going into

the season, and one that CHS will need to find an answer for quick. Nick Epps and Hunter Roth both return for their senior year at receiver. Defensively, the Black Knights sit in good shape as they return eight starters including Hughes who is especially disruptive up front and linebacker Larry Anderson. The coaching staff at Charlottesville is particularly excited about some of its new additions including defensive end with sophomore Sadarius Foley and at defensive back with Tre Durrett, a freshman. Malik Bartee and Epps will also be big time in the secondary.Having Thomas Burle back at kicker also should help give the Black Knights an edge on special teams. The bottom line is that while this Charlottesville team will look different, particularly on offense, the expectations are still rising for this program. This is Sherry’s first senior class, and with all the tools this team has, most notably at the skill positions, don’t be surprised if the Black Knights are a formidable threat to compete at the top of the JD. They get three games at home to start off the season in what could be a jumpstart to a very productive year. ✖

WESTERN ALBEMARLE

WARRIORS

JEFFERSON DISTRICT, 2013 RECORD: 11-2 8/29 9/5 9/12 9/26 10/3 10/10 10/17 10/14 10/31 11/7

vs. vs. @ @ vs. @ vs. vs. @ @

Spotswood Waynesboro Fort Defiance Orange County Albemarle Louisa County Monticello Charlottesville Powhatan Fluvanna County

WHO’S GONE: NIC DRAPANAS (WR/DB), KENT HENRY (QB/DB), STEVEN HEARN (WR/DB), CHASE STOKES (WR) WHO’S BACK: OLIVER HERNDON (RB/ DB, PICTURED BELOW), MATT MULLIN (LB), STEPHEN KUZJAK (LB), OSIRIS CRUTCHFIELD (DL) WHO’S NEW: SAM HEARN (QB), HENRY KREIENBAUM (QB/WR)

CHARLOTTESVILLE

BLACK KNIGHTS JEFFERSON DISTRICT, 2013 RECORD: 5-6 8/29 9/5 9/19 9/26 10/3 10/10 10/17 10/24 10/31 11/7

vs. vs. vs. @ vs. @ vs. @ vs. @

Eastern View Culpeper William Monroe Louisa County Monticello Orange County Albemarle Western Albemarle Fluvanna County Powhatan

WHO’S GONE: CHRIS THURSTON (QB/DB), LEON STRAUS (WR/DB), WILL WHITE (OL), JEREMIAH JORDAN (OL), WADE KAMMAUFF (OL) WHO’S BACK: MALIK BARTEE (ATH/DB), TROY HUGHES (OL/DL), LARRY ANDERSON (LB), NICK EPPS (WR/DB, PICTURED BELOW), RASHAD BROCK (RB), THOMAS BURLE (K) WHO’S NEW: SADARIUS FOLEY (DE) TRE DURRETT (DB/WR), J.D. BUCKHOLZ (OL)

www.scrimmageplay.com :: 16

BUCKINGHAM COUNTY

KNIGHTS

JAMES RIVER DISTRICT, 2013 RECORD: 10-4 8/29 9/12 9/19 9/26 10/3 10/10 10/17 10/24 10/31 11/7

@ @ vs. @ @ vs. vs. vs. @ vs.

Appomattox Amelia County Bluestone Goochland Randolph Henry Central Lunenburg Liberty Bedford Nottoway Cumberland Prince Edward

WHO’S GONE: KENNETH JOHNSON (RB/LB), JUSTIN AYRES (WR/DB), JOHN EDWARDS (WR/DB) WHO’S BACK: LEON RAGLAND (RB/LB, PITCTURED BELOW), JACOB SNODDY (OL), CONNOR CHRISTIAN (OL), DYSHAWN PERKINS (OL) DEMETRIUS JONES (OL) WHO’S NEW: TARIQ GOUGH (RB)

GOOCHLAND

BULLDOGS JAMES RIVER DISTRICT, 2013 RECORD: 9-4 8/29 9/5 9/12 9/19 9/26 10/3 10/17 10/24 10/31 11/7

vs. vs. @ @ vs. @ @ vs. @ vs.

Essex Fork Union Bluestone Randolph Henry Buckingham County Central Lunenburg Nottoway Cumberland Prince Edward Amelia County

WHO’S GONE: DAVID DYER (RB), CONNER SAUNDERS (RB/LB) WHO’S BACK: JORDAN JEFFERSON (RB/DB, PICTURED BELOW), REID CHENAULT (QB), AKIA TIMBERLAKE (DL), JOHN CREASY (OL), JAYRELL MILES (WR/DB) WHO’S NEW: RICKY MAYFIELD (LB), CALVIN MARTIN (DB), CORDELL MATTOX (WR/DB)

17 :: @scrimmageplay

Knights ready for next challenge They were the last public school standing in Central Virginia in 2013. Buckingham County had some bumps along the way in the regular season, but when the playoffs arrived, they played their best football getting as far as the Division 2A final four before falling to Brunswick. It was an impressive run that included a big road win over Dan River. And now that’s all behind them. The Knights have enough back that they should be in good shape to make another run in the playoffs. However, just out of the gate, new leadership has to step forward as Kenneth Johnson and John Edwards leave a considerable hole, in both presence and production. It’ll be up to sophomore Tariq Gough to try and step into the featured running back role, but he’ll have a lot of help as Patrice Foster will spell some of his carries. The key to this offense though is up front. Connor Christian and Jacob Snoddy lead offensive line that started out green last year, but really come together perfectly down the stretch. Four of the five starters are back on the offensive line. With Leon Ragland back at quarterback, the Knights have a dual threat signal-caller that only got better in terms of passing as the year wore on. Already an

elusive and strong improviser with his feat, Ragland’s breakout performance last year pits him as the team’s most dangerous weapon as the season begins. Both Edwards and Justin Ayres are gone at receiver, but the Knights are looking to 6-foot-3 Terrence Tyree to make a difference there. It’s on defense where the Knights have the most work to do. Edwards and Johnson accounted for a lot of tackles. With eight starters gone, Buckingham’s strength defensively is up front again. Outside of that, the coaching staff planned to take all of camp to figure out its situation at linebacker. Freshman Jalen Liggins figures to a prominent part of a secondary that includes Ragland and Gough. Figuring out the middle of the defense is this team’s challenge. However, if you can run the ball as effectively as the Knights did last year, you have plenty of time to figure things out on defense. Look for the offensive line to step up and make Gough a household name by midseason and Ragland to continue to make big plays. While the Knights will be challenged early on schedule wise, there’s no reason this program can’t pick up the pieces from last year and do it all over again. ✖

Bulldogs back with large lineup That Goochland averaged 43 points a game last year is impressive on its own. However, if things go as planned, the Bulldogs’ coaching staff feels as though they could improve on that number. The Bulldogs took out top seed Wilson Memorial in the Region 2A East playoffs and were a play away from taking down Riverheads for a spot in the state final four. So, suffice to say, expectations for this program are as high as they get. Much of the excitement for the Bulldogs stems from having four of its five starters back on the offensive line including standout John Creasy. With Reid Chenault installed as the fulltime at quarterback, the Bulldogs might be more balanced than teams are prepared for. Stopping the running game is the focus for all opposing defenses, and with Jordan Jefferson, Daric Clarke and Isaiah Minor in the backfield, Goochland has a wellrounded group of backs. That will help offset the loss of David Dyer. Last year, Goochland split the snaps at quarterback between Jefferson and Chenault, but in this arrangement the Bulldogs have a little more flexibility to put Jefferson out in space. When

the Bulldogs do decide to air it out, Chenault has seniors Colby Noel and Jayrell Myles to target as receivers. On defense, the Bulldogs have an exceptional talent in Jefferson leading a young secondary that features newcomers Calvin Martin and Cordell Mattox. On the defensive line, Goochland has a stud back in K.K. Timberlake and a space eater in Joe McCluskey. The linebacking corps is especially young, but freshman Ricky Mayfield brings a massive frame to the middle of the defense. Over on special teams, something stressed hard at Goochland, the Bulldogs have both its kicker and punter back in Raleigh Marria and Javier Moreno, giving them a potent advantage in that phase of the game. The bottom line is that while Goochland has some youth to deal with on defense, the potency of this offense should give that unit more than enough time to adjust and improve. Between Chenault, this offensive line and the usual stable of backs head coach Joe Fowler always has, Goochland sits poised to play deep into November and potentially, into December. ✖

SUPPORTING THE FUTURE SPORTS STARS OF TOMORROW Best of luck to our 2013 student athletes as they embark on their college careers. Maiah Bartlett Miles Davis Blissie DuBose Will Eppard Tyler Gimple Will Grossman Allie Nicholson Lloyd Smith Stewart Staunton Aaron Stinnie Catherine Towers

University of Mary Washington St. Joseph’s University University of North Carolina Stevenson University University of Mary Washington Colorado College University of Virginia Bates College University of Virginia James Madison University Gettysburg College

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M A D I S O N CO U N T Y

MOUNTAINEERS BULL RUN DISTRICT, 2013 RECORD: 3-8

9/5 9/12 9/19 9/26 10/3 10/10 10/17 10/24 10/31 11/7

vs. @ vs. @ vs. @ vs. vs. @ @

Luray East Rockingham Culpeper Manassas Park George Mason Clarke County William Monroe Strasburg Central Woodstock Warren County

WHO’S GONE: ASHTON WEAKLEY (WR/DB), SAM TURNER (WR), BRAY LAMB (OL/DL), ANDRE ALLEE (OL/DL) WHO’S BACK: JAMES GRAVES (QB, PICTURED), KENYON SMITH (OL/DL), DRE TWYMAN (WR/DB), DYLAN BERRY (OL/LB) WHO’S NEW: ISAIAH SMITH (WR/DB), CHRIS SMITH (WR/DB), DYLAN BREEDEN (DE/TE)

W WILLIAM MONROE M GREENE DRAGONS BULL RUN DISTRICT, 2013 RECORD: 3-8

9/5 9/12 9/19 9/26 10/3 10/10 10/17 10/24 10/31 11/7

vs. @ @ vs. @ vs. @ vs. @ vs.

Spotswood Broadway Charlottesville Warren County Strasburg Central Woodstock Madison County George Mason Manassas Park Clarke County

WHO’S GONE: AUSTIN BATTEN (DB/WR) WHO’S BACK: TYLEK BURLEY (RB, PICTURED BELOW), JOSH KING (LB), MARK WILLIAMSON (OL/DL), JACOB GRANT (OL), CODY PERKINS (RB) WHO’S NEW: DUSTIN KNIGHT (QB)

19 :: @scrimmageplay

Mountaineers build on the edges Madison County had a back and forth 2013 season to say the least. The Mountaineers flashed signs of amazing potential, but were unable to establish the running game they would have liked. In the end, they qualified for the playoffs, but with a 3-8 record at the end of the year, finished unsatisfied. The good news for the Mountaineers is that they return the majority of its starters on the offensive line, including senior Dylan Berry. They also have a three-year starting quarterback in James Graves returning. The passing game was the bright spot for Madison last year and Graves has the arm to do serious damage downfield, but will have to do it without the school’s all-time leading receiver in Ashton Weakley. And to add to that, Madison is still trying to work things out in the backfield to try and be more balanced and certainly more effective on the ground. So while Graves is arguably the team’s most dangerous asset, he needs the right pieces around him to put up the kind of numbers this coaching staff would love to see. With that said, coach Stuart Dean isn’t trying to air the ball out the way he had to last year to try and keep pace.

What makes Madison County intriguing though is the blossoming talent at wide receiver and in the secondary. There is a young wave of talent moving up the ranks for this program. Dre Twyman made some big plays as a freshman last year at safety and his role on both sides of the ball will be expanded. Also contributing in those area’s are dynamic young athletes like Isaiah Smith and Chris Smith. Up front defensively, the Mountaineers return senior denfensive tackle Kenyon Smith. Sophomore Dylan Breeden should provide depth on the line with his play at defensive end. In the middle, Madison has senior Demaun Minor to lead the linebacking corps. While Madison’s defense struggled at times last year, it has a lot of potential to make some big strides forward, especially if its younger talent chips in. There was a lot of turnover in the Bull Run District with the exception of archrival William Monroe and hat should help to put Madison in a much better position during the regular season. This is a team that appears to be headed in a brighter newer direction, and one that has the tools to qualify for the playoffs and be disruptive. ✖

Dragons finally of age Make no mistake. William Monroe may have a new head coach in former defensive coordinator Jon Rocha, but this isn’t a rebuilding year. The Dragons have been building to this season for at least the last two years, when in 2012 Monroe deployed a slew of sophomores after a mass exodus the followed a 2011 playoff appearance. Now those young players are ready to go out strong. Particularly in the defensive core, Monroe is stout, with linebackers Josh King (a three-year starter), Dylan Schaff, Eddy Inzana and Nick Losciuto leading the way. In front of that experienced quartet is Mark Williamson, the Dragons’ mammoth tackle who goes both ways. King, an All-Scrimmage Play honorable mention pick last year, is a particularly critical presence at middle linebacker as he can wreak havoc in the heart of the defense either by knifing through the middle on a blitz or simply meeting an opposing running back at the point of attack. The other linebackers are sure tacklers and Williamson is a space-eater with good feet. The bottom line? Running against Monroe should be a challenge. Passing won’t be much easier as there are a number of key returners roaming the secondary too. Every

key defender is back and they’re battle-tested, having qualified for the Group 3A playoffs last year. There aren’t too many questions on offense in the ground game either. Tylek Burley and Cody Perkins are both proven entities at running back, and the senior duo will run behind Williamson and a host of other seasoned offensive linemen and tight end Satchel Knight. The offense will be adapting to a new pistol-oriented system and they’ve got to find a reliable presence at signal-caller between Dustin Knight (an accomplished baseball player) or Malique Shackleford, but either one would have the benefit of defenses having to load up to stop Perkins and Burley. If they’re both on the field at the same time, opposing defenses will face some really difficult choices. Monroe made the playoffs last year, but they squeaked in with a 3-7 record. The stage certainly seems set for the Dragons to not just slide in to the postseason. While some pieces need to fall into place like with any squad, Monroe may be able to establish their identity earlier in the season than most because of the familiarity between its key parts. Because remember — this isn’t a rebuilding year. ✖

Spin

I circle

NELSON COUNTY

Governors to restart with Poston

cody perkins DOGWOOD DISTRICT, 2012 RECORD: 2-8 @

Luray

vs. Page County ing the offense at such breakneck speed. In Caesar vs. Riverheads Perkins and Kelly Kirby the Governors have new @ Hargrave @ Dan River talent at wide receiver to go with Sheldon Perkins. vs. Chatham @ Altavista Finding a committee of runnings backs will be a chalvs. William Campbell @ Appomattox lenge, but finding someone to run behind shouldn’t. vs. Gretna Over the last few years, Homer Barnett has played at a high level on the offensive line. Doug Taylor will get WHO’S GONE: KELLY KIRBY (RB/DB/RET) plenty of snaps at running back. HE’S GONE ABOUT his business quietly, but effectively. Cody WHO’S BACK: COREY MAYS (OL/MLB PICDefensively the GovernorsPerkins will have to try andtoting the ball for William has been Monroe since he was TURED BELOW), BRYCE ADKINS (OL/DL), slow down the run, a significant problem lastIn year. TYLER BAKER (OL/DL) a sophomore. his debut against Nelson County in 2012, he ran Barnett and Sjostrom will be for big 216 up front on the yards, making an immediateWHO’S impact for RAY a young team(QB/FS) NEW: CHAMBERS defensive line, but both needthat help needed from a brand just new that. linebacking corps. Taylor will be aPerkins’ factor there. Withis as much about his style and his elusiveness ability Galloway, Kirby and Perkins at back, theAs a sophomore and junior, he was running asdefensive anything else. edge of the field is a strengthbehind which should helpand ever-developing offensive line. Perkins can a young mighitly against the pass. evade defenders, find shrinking holes and slip through them and The Dogwood District is going to be an unfriendly run particulalry well in the red zone has been the lifeblood of battle once again and Riverheads will be a tough offense these last few seasons. William Monroe’s challenge in week three, but the Entering Governors his havesenior a year, Perkins and the Dragons are no chance to build confidence early in the year before longer the wet-behind-the-ears group they were two years ago. they have to kick off DWD play with Perkins Dan River. While has rushed for 1,000 yards in each of the last two In the end though, shouldseasons the Governors find 1,243 yards last year), and Monroe’s offense (including success with Poston’s offense on had a regular basis, the the team’s struggles overshadow his body has its moments, building blocks will be in place this team take to be changing. offor work. Thatto appears the right steps forward. ✖ Aside from the Dragons coming in with a huge senior class,

Senior

William Monroe

the emergence of Tylek Burley at running back has also helped keep more of the tread on Perkins tires. And RIDGE that’s important BLUE because of Perkins’ style. He’s going to take some hits. With Perkins, the Dragons have a shifty yet hardnosed runner that can OLD DOMINION CONFERENCE, 2012 RECORD: 9-2 move the chains effectively. Monroe will lean on him heavily to Hargrave to anchor the front. Etheridge, continue a first teamwhat all-state he’s done the last two9/7 years,@ and if all goes well, 9/14 vs. Blessed Sacrament-Huguenot 9/21 @ North Cross linebacker, played with his hand downthe andDragons standing up both and Perkins will have some more yardage, 9/26 @ Covenant in a variety of formations for the Barons last year while touchdowns and more importantly, wins showChristchurch for it. ✖ 10/4 tovs.

Barons have crown to defend It’s easy to look back at Blue Ridge’s 9-2 VISAA Division II championship campaign last season and see a nearly perfect run to the title. The Barons, after all, lost just twice, once to the Division I championship squad Liberty Christian and once to Christchurch, a defeat they avenged in the first round of the state playoffs. But the Barons had to scrap, claw and retool nearly every week during that run, adapting to personnel changes and a wide-ranging level of opponents on the schedule. Blue Ridge overcame all those obstacles en route to the title, but it was by no means smooth sailing. There was no one single star they leaned on. Three different running backs alternately carried the load depending on the matchup. Often the defense, led by Shawn Steen, Ryan Etheridge, Leon Straus and Jared Arntzen carried the load for the Barons, making big plays or forcing turnovers. The Barons will face a similarly inventive task this year as many of those versatile standouts like Steen, Straus, Arntzen, Cody Pegram and Darryl Smith have moved on, leaving Blue Ridge to re-tool as usual up in St. George. One place they’ve got a lot of experience and talent is in the trenches where Etheridge, who piled up 114 total tackles last year including 49 solo stops, returns

8/30 9/6 9/13 9/20 9/27 10/11 10/18 10/25 11/1 11/8

The 2012 season started off with a bang for the Governors as they put together 64 points in a season opening win over William Monroe with 675 rushing yards from Tyler Vest and Devonte Turner. Unfortunately though, Nelson stumbled in eight of the next nine contests to leave them on the wrong end of the standings in the Dogwood District. With Mark Wells’ departure after three years as coach, Mark Poston, formerly of Eastern Montgomery, takes over a team that is ready for a new identity. Certainly changing the logo on the helmet sends a message, but the greater change will come from the new coach’s offensive style. At Eastern Montegomery, Poston got his team to the Group A Division 1 championship running a no-huddle spread offense at a pace that’s quick even for no huddle offenses. The Governors plan to run a snap every eight seconds. For programs digging out of tough stretches, scoring points is a smart way to keep the roster full and build morale. Losing Vest and Turner leaves the Governors in a tough spot from the skill positions as both brought size and speed to the edge of the field from both sides of the ball. Peyton Galloway will take over at quarterback and have the difficult task of orchestrat-

GOVERNORS

also helping pave the way for the squad’s dominant rushing attack. There’s also Nathan Johnson, a mountainous 270-pound two-way lineman who earned first team all-state honors on offense last season. Throw in Western Albemarle transfer Patrick Maupin, who was an instrumental part of the line for the area’s most productive offense last season, and there should be plenty of protection for the skill position standouts. Identifying those skill players will be a critical part of head coach Orlando Patterson’s early work in midAugust. Tristan Allen will return as the signal-caller and P.J. White, who started 2012 brilliantly, is slated to come back as a wide receiver. Look for Torian Pegram to step in at tailback and give the Barons a strong, physical runner a year after his brother Cody did the much of the same. But that still leaves a number of holes for Patterson to sort through as he figures out what the squad will look like as they begin their title defense. Then again, as we learned last year, the Barons’ young coach is well-suited to retooling and adjusting. He adjusted his way all the way to a state title last year. ✖

BARONS 10/12 10/19 10/26 11/2

@ @ vs. vs.

Trinity Episcopal Virginia Episcopal Liberty Christrian St. Anne’s-Belfield

WHO’S GONE: JAREDN ARNTZEN (RB/LB), DARRYL SMITH (WB/DB), SHAWN STEEN (WR/DB/K), LEON STRAUS (WR/DB), CODY PEGRAM (RB/LB) WHO’S BACK: NATHAN JOHNSON (OL/DL, PICTURED BELOW), TRISTAN ALLEN (QB), P.J. WHITE (WR/DB), RYAN ETHERIDGE (DL/ LB/OL) WHO’S NEW: PATRICK MAUPIN (OL/DL)

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NELSON COUNTY

GOVERNORS

DOGWOOD DISTRICT, 2013 RECORD: 0-10 8/29 9/5 9/12 9/19 9/26 10/10 10/17 10/24 10/31 11/7

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Luray Page County Riverheads Hargrave Dan River Chatham Altavista William Campbell Appomattox Gretna

WHO’S GONE: KELLY KIRBY (RB/DB/RET) WHO’S BACK: COREY MAYS (OL/MLB PICTURED BELOW), BRYCE ADKINS (OL/DL), TYLER BAKER (OL/DL) WHO’S NEW: RAY CHAMBERS (QB/FS)

BLUE RIDGE

Governors eager to move forward Don’t make any mistake about it. Nelson County has its work cut out for it in Mark Poston’s second year as the head coach. The Governors took their lumps last season during an 0-10 campaign, and it’s a long road back from that kind of frustrating season that is the latest in a run of losing seasons (Nelson is 10-50 in the last six years). But Poston has coached championship football before and has built programs from the ground up too, most recently at East Montgomery, who he lead to a 13-1 record in 2010 that ended with a state runner-up finish. The Governors will have to climb out of the hole against one of the state’s toughest district slates as Dan River, Altavista (the defending Group 1 champions) and long-time power Gretna all continue to run the Dogwood District. Poston is also having to re-tool some of his own philosophies with Nelson, as East Montgomery ran a frantically-paced offense (running a play every seven seconds of game clock according to Poston). The Governors tried to do the same for three games last year before it was clear that wasn’t going to work. Nelson abandoned the pace and will instead run a more traditionally-paced

spread attack with junior Ray Chambers set to step in at quarterback. The Governors will need to find playmakers to fit around Chambers, who’s been a mainstay in the weight room this offseason, particularly with the graduation of electric return man Kelly Kirby. The middle of the Nelson defense should be a major strength with junior Corey Mays back at middle linebacker. He’ll likely see time at tackle on the offensive side of the ball, but with a year under his belt he should be ready to anchor a defense that’s retooling in order to prevent some of the offensive explosions they endured last season. Mays will have help too from defensive tackles Tyler Baker and Bryce Adkins, a pair of space eaters who check in at around 275 pounds apiece. If Adkins, a sophomore, and Baker, a junior can wreak havoc inside, that’ll free Mays up to make tackles and play sideline-to-sideline. That group will need to gel quickly as Luray, Page and Hargrave, all potentially winnable games are three of the first four on the slate. Build some momentum in those three games and the Governors can stay focused on taking the next step in the rebuilding process. ✖

BARONS

Barons start new era

8/30 9/6 9/12 9/20 9/25 10/11 10/18 10/25 10/31

Flexibility is a must at Blue Ridge. The Barons bring in a new crop of faces and names every year and then get a very short time to try and bring it all together with practice starting in late August. That’s the nature of the beast at many boarding schools. Which makes new head coach Tim Thomas an excellent fit for the Barons. He’s been in a number of systems over the years including at Blue Ridge during the 2012 state title run, and he’s taught physical education in elementary school where you’ve got to be flexible just to get the job done. He’s certainly got some pieces to work with in his latest stint with the Barons, where he served as an assistant coach twice previously. Only a few players return from last year, with Affana Offor and Tre Watts back as potential pass-catching threats. Offor had 11 catches last year at tight end on a team that ran nearly twice as much as they threw, so he could be a reliable target even with a potential move to the boundary as a wideout. Outside of that, it’s, as usual, a lot of new faces for the Barons. Trevor Eaton from Maryland appears set to take over at quarterback after Tristan Allen manned the spot the last two years. George Sten-

OLD DOMINION CONFERENCE, 2013 RECORD: 3-6 @ vs. @ vs. @ vs. vs. @ @

Christchurch Hargrave Blessed Sacrement North Cross Covenant Trinity Episcopal Virginia Episcopal Randolph-Macon St. Anne’s-Belfield

WHO’S GONE: TORIAN PEGRAM (RB/LB), P.J. WHITE (WR/DB), TRISTAN ALLEN (QB), NATHAN JOHSNON (OL/DL) WHO’S BACK: AFANNA OFFOR (WR, PICTURED BELOW), TAE WATTS (WR) WHO’S NEW: JHALIL PURYEAR (OL/DL), SCOTT SPENCER (WR/DB), TREVOR EATON (QB), GEORGE STENHOUSE (RB/LB)

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house, who played lacrosse last year for the Barons as a defensive midfielder, will likely factor into the backfield mix, though a lot of potential ball carriers could be in the mix depending on how the Barons put the offense together. Scott Spencer from the Tidewater area will give Eaton a huge 6-foot-6 target and an experienced one at that. Harrison Burton, a Christchurch transfer who’s also a standout basketball player, should also be part of the mix at receiver and potentially in the secondary. Clayton Turner, a lacrosse player, has impressed in the early stages of practice as a potential option at safety. Up front, both the offensive and defensive lines are a work in progress, but sophomore Jhalil Puryear has proven a quick study on the offensive front and should also see some time at linebacker. Jack Comstock out of Dallas will likely be looked at as a major contributor for the Barons in the trenches. Look for Blue Ridge to improve and gel together as the year goes on as it has just eight days of practice before its first game. There are certainly some intriguing pieces for Thomas to work with, and that could make the Barons dangerous in 2014. ✖

Eagles look to build upon gains Anyone who’s played on a football team with a small roster can attest — simply surviving the season feels like an accomplishment. When you’ve got just enough guys to scrimmage during practice, the physical demands on the entire roster are going to be significant, and that’s what Covenant football faces each year. It also helps explain some quick starts that are followed by precipitous drops by the Eagles over the last few years, and new coach Dave Hart, previously a coordinator with Covenant, is working on building the Eagles for the duration of the year. That starts with a new offense, built on midline and triple option principles, that should spread the ball around and prevent wear and tear on one or two players. With four players a threat to run on any given play, defenses won’t be able to key on a single runner which should also give the Eagles’ offensive line, led by returning starter Jamison Steljes, a lift. Hart’s adjustments should pay some immediate dividends since Covenant’s numbers are up and a lot of key players are back in the mix. Two players the Eagles will lean on heavily are Quan Washington and Austin Llera. Llera’s hard-nose running style is perfectly suited for the fullback spot in the option

offense and Washington can get to the edge and make things happen. Washington will do a lot of heavy lifting on defense too, where he’ll need to be a big factor as Paul Huemme moves over to offense as the Eagles’ new quarterback. Huemme was a critical member of the secondary last year. Huemme is well-suited to run the offense that requires snap decision making from the quarterback and will be a ground threat himself as he brings some speed to the table. Steven Wilder and Josh Klein will also be factors in the ground game at the wing back spots along with Washington. Steljes will play guard and will step in at middle linebacker where he’ll need to anchor the front seven with Llera, who’s played linebacker the last two years, largely focused on his offensive duties. The Eagles will also put a renewed focus on special teams, with lacrosse goalie Austin Hall emerging as a kicker/punter in the preseason. Washington could also be a factor in the return game where he’s been a major threat in the past. Covenant seems to have some pieces in place to rebound from last season’s frustrating finish, and with some new systems and points of emphasis, things could go much more smoothly for the Eagles. ✖

Blue Devils hit second stage It wasn’t that much of a surprise considering the size of the senior class that left the year before — Fork Union was in full rebuild mode in 2013 from the ground floor on up and at times took its lumps. But now in his second year as coach for the Blue Devils, Brian Hurlocker has his team in position to make some noise in the Prep League once again. With Sam Allen back at quarterback, the new additions of Lewis Freeman and Micah Keels at receiver should help bolster the passing game as senior Julius Puryear returns as well. Improvements in the air are all icing on the cake because in Rashon Torrence, Fork Union has a truly productive and powerful running back. Last year Torrence averaged almost eight yards per carry, finishing with 1,025 yards and nine touchdowns in just seven games played. Fork Union added Alexander McCloskey to its offensive line and his 6-foot-2 248 pound frame should be able to help open up some more holes, but Hurlocker and his staff are trying to develop the rest of the line which is mostly inexperienced. The Blue Devils are confident in their ability to put points on the board, that wasn’t the biggest

problem in 2013. What was problematic was its defense. Early on in camp the focus has been on building chemistry with new talent and some pieces in new places. Defensively the Blue Devils’ strength is at linebacker as they have Justin Shaffer and Nick Cline back and have moved Adam Hackenberg over to that unit as well. Bolstering the depth at linebacker is newcomer Josh Nevers who brings size to the middle of the field. The secondary will feature Torrence and Allen as it did last year. With the lack of turnover on the roster, the return of some many key playmakers and some new additions, Fork Union should put together a solid product on the field. It will be tested early on when it steps out of the private ranks and plays two good Monticello and Goochland teams. That should get this team ready for its Prep League slate where the Blue Devils are used to being at or very near the top of the standings. If the defense rises to the occasion and Allen and Torrence continue their play on offense, there’s no reason Fork Union should not be in the thick of the VISAA Division 1 playoffs. ✖

COVENANT

EAGLES

OLD DOMION CONFERENCE, 2013 RECORD: 3-7 8/22 8/30 9/6 9/12 9/19 9/25 10/10 10/17 10/25 10/31

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Portsmith Christian Randolph-Macon Virginia Episcopal Hargrave Massanutten Blue Ridge Christchurch St. Anne’s-Belfield North Cross Fishburne

WHO’S GONE: SPENCER GODINE (LB/TE), TRENT JENKINS (DE/OT), TEDDY MORSE (DL/OL) WHO’S BACK: QUANE WASHINGTON (RB/ DB, PICTURED BELOW), AUSTIN LLERA (RB/LB), PAUL HUEMME (QB), JAMISON STELJES (OL/DL), BOBBY FINDLEY (DB/WR), STEVEN WILDER (DB/WR) WHO’S NEW: TY HENDRICKS (OL/DL), MATT KERSEY (OL/DL)

FORK UNION

BLUE DEVILS PREP LEAGUE, 2012 RECORD: 10-3 8/29 9/5 9/12 9/20 9/26 10/3 10/10 10/17 10/25 10/31

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Georgetown Prep (MD) Goochland Monticello Bishop O’Connell Charlotte Latin St. Christopher’s Liberty Christian Collegiate Benedictine Woodberry Forest

WHO’S GONE: MARK UPTEGRAFF (OL), CHARLES CLARDY (WR), TRISTAN WHITEHEART (LB), SPENCER BLANTON (LB) WHO’S BACK: RASHON TORRENCE (RB, PICTURED BELOW), SAM ALLEN (QB), JULIUS PURYEAR (WR/DB), ADAM HACKENBERG (TE/LB) WHO’S NEW: LEWIS FREEMAN (WR), MICAH KEELS (WR), JOSH NEVERS (RB/LB)

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Truck

I Right stick Up

o v

H.t. Minor

Senior Woodberry Forest

H.T. MINOR USUALLY finishes strong. Whether it’s accelerating up the sideline or finishing off a tough run between the tackles, Minor is an accomplished north/south runner who just gets faster as the play moves along. By the time he’s at the free safety, Minor is flat out flying, even if he’s had to punish a few runners along the way. Minor, who checks in at 5-foot-9 and 169-pounds, piled up 838 yards last year while sharing the backfield duties with bruising runner James Hewell, who went for 668 yards. Minor was good for 6.6 yards per carry, and seemed to break out of the pack for a 40-yard or more touchdown at least every other week for the Tigers during an 8-1 campaign. Perhaps even more impressively, those yards came behind a talented but green offensive line. This year Minor seems poised for a repeat performance, particularly with the emergence of linemen Brady Logan, Clark Yarborough and Cole Martini who are all back to pave the way. Throw in running threat Lindell Stone stepping in for an expanded role at quarterback and the Woodberry ground game should be a dangerous force in the Prep League in 2014. ✖

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Saints poised to break out Now this is more like it. Everyone is more used to coming into a new football season expecting St. Anne’s-Belfield football to challenge for a state championship. Not wondering what STAB was going to be able to do while nursing the wounds incurred from an 0-10 campaign like the Saints suffered in 2012. The Saints bring back a host of standouts, including most of the skill position players on offense and one of the area’s more underrated two-way standouts, Minor Smith. Smith was a rock at linebacker for STAB during last season’s turnaround campaign that ended in the state semifinals against Bishop Sullivan. He also gave the offensive line a lot of stability as that unit searched most of the season for a consistent ground game. Now this year, Smith will pave the way for what has the makings of an explosive and dynamic offense. Lee Parkhill, after showing promise as early as his sophomore year, has settled into the quarterback role, and he’s got a pair of top notch targets in All-State wideout Jalen Harrison and Kareem Johnson on the opposite side of the formation. Both are gamebreakers, and if Parkhill can get the ball in their hands early and often, it’ll continue

to open things up for Brodie Phillips in the ground game. Phillips emerged as a solid tailback for the Saints late last year, and odds are good they’ll try and stay with that formula in 2014. Campbell Miller, who helped key the late surge in the run game, also returns at tight end. If he emerges as a pass catching threat, the offense will just get that much more dynamic. Joe Upchurch, Bredt Stockwell and Gideon Elron also return up front along with Minor. On defense, Smith will again give the Saints a building block as a linebacker. Look for a lot of different looks up front from STAB on that side of the ball as they continue to take advantage of their speed with athletes like DeeJay Anderson, Rob Schotta and John Woodson on the roster. The defense should be able to go on the attack and take some risks with an offense that seems poised to put up points. With all those key parts back in the mix, it’s clear that the days of worrying about the 14-game losing streak that spanned 2012 and the early part of 2013 are over. Now the question is just how far this group can go — and that is business as usual at STAB. ✖

ST. ANNE ’S -BELFIELD

SAINTS

OLD DOMINION CONFERENCE, 2013 RECORD: 5-5 9/5 9/12 9/19 9/26 10/3 10/10 10/17 10/25 10/31

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Christchurch Bishop Sullivan Trinity Episcopal Nansemond-Suffolk North Cross Ilse of Wight Covenant Virginia Episcopal Blue Ridge

WHO’S GONE: DEREK KASCHAK (ATH) WHO’S BACK: JALEN HARRISON (WR/DB, PICTURED BELOW), LEE PARKHILL (QB), ROB SCHOTTA (WR/DB/P), KAREEM JOHNSON (WR/DB), BRODIE PHILLIPS (RB/DB), MINOR SMITH (OL/LB) WHO’S NEW: JAMEEL WILSON, COREY REYES

WOODBERRY FOREST

Tigers leaning on speed

TIGERS

Woodberry Forest football has found a variety of ways to get it done over the last six years as the Tigers have piled up a 47-9 record during that span. Last year, it was a big, physical defense anchored by defensive tackle terror Spencer Bibb and All-American linebacker Greer Martini. This year though, speed appears set to be the name of the game for the Tigers. There’s all-state running back H.T. Minor, a burner who gave the Woodberry ground game its dose of lightning in 2013. There’s Nathaniel Tyrell and Logi Portugal at the boundary corners who are both back and can fly. There’s speedy Nate Ingram at flanker and Zach Roderick lining up at wideout. There’s Lionel Johnson, a junior from the Bahamas who can pair with Minor in the backfield. There’s Michael Davenport at free safety who ripped off a 10.7 100-meter time during the spring while winning the state title in the race. Then there’s Lindell Stone, the sophomore quarterback who’s an elite runner. The bottom line? Woodberry is fast and they’re fast everywhere. The Tigers may not maul opponents like they did last year — though returning

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starters along the offensive line Brady Logan, Cole Martini and Clark Yarborough can do plenty of that on their own. But they’re certainly going to fly to the ball defensively and push the envelope on the edge on the offensive side of the ball. The complete revamp of the defensive front seven — only senior inside linebacker Duke Sherrell returns — will put some pressure on an experienced offense to produce. Both Stone, who already has offers from UVa and UCLA as just a sophomore, and Christian Zaytoun will likely see time at quarterback, but Stone is an elite athlete at 6-foot-2 and 192 pounds and it’s hard to keep the ball out of his hands. He can also get Ingram and Roderick in the mix early and often, which could help open things up for Minor, who was essentially good for a 45-yard touchdown sprint per game last season and averaged more than six yards a touch. If that offense is clicking early, that’ll give Woodberry’s staff a chance to try and transform some inexperienced linemen and linebackers into another formidable defensive unit. This year it may be all about speed, but that will likely suit the Tigers just fine. ✖

PREP LEAGUE, 2013 RECORD: 8-1 @ @ vs. vs. vs. vs. @ @ vs.

Eastern Shore Liberty Christian Flint Hill Collegiate Friendship Collegiate Benedictine St. Christopher’s Fork Union Episcopal

WHO’S GONE: GREER MARTINI (LB), SPENCER BIBB (DL), CHRISTIAN ASHER (WR) WHO’S BACK: NATHANIEL TYRELL (CB/ RET, PICTURED BELOW), H.T. MINOR (RB/ DB), NATE INGRAM (FL), LINDELL STONE (QB), CLARK YARBOROUGH (OL), BRADY LOGAN (OL/DL), COLE MARTINI (OL/DL) WHO’S NEW: LIONEL JOHNSON (RB), MICHAEL DAVENPORT (FS)

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At Blue Ridge School you can choose both. ALL BOYS • ALL BOARDING • ALL COLLEGE BOUND Blue Ridge School’s Baron

Lacrosse

Football

Scholarship Program offers substantial scholarships to boys applying for the 9th grade who exemplify character and leadership potential. www.BlueRidgeSchool.com/scholarship 434-985-2811

2012 VISAA Div II State Football Champions 2013 VIC Lacrosse Champions

Overtime

Virtual pastime Looking back at the glory days of video games

et’s not mince words. I was a ridiculously good video game football player. In the NCAA football game from EA Sports, there were few people I couldn’t beat on a regular basis. In Madden? Same story. But I realized when we were putting together this year’s football preview edition that my prime was at least 10 years ago. Ten entire years. An entire decade has passed since I could go toe-to-toe with any of my friends, anyone who lived on my hall during my first year of college or, in particular, my younger brother, my ultimate video game nemesis. That’s a long time, but I remember a lot of those moments vividly. I remember playing Madden 2003 with a brilliant computer science major who’d reduced the game to simple patterns. He’d hike the ball to Daunte Culpepper (Culpepper was pretty slick back then) and then stare at you and count “1-2-3-4” and hit the button and complete a pass every time. He’d done this on a variety of plays. It wasn’t even football anymore. It was just code breaking. I remember playing the dynasty mode of NCAA 2003 with the immortal Joey Harrington on the cover — released shortly after my first year of college — with a bunch of buddies also home for the summer, trying to elevate teams like Savannah State or Akron into the top tier of the sport. We’d let the computer simulate entire seasons or just play a single game and then just do the recruiting portion of the game. We had a friend Zach who developed the tactic of putting his awful team’s fastest corner back at quarterback and simply sprinting with him every play for Mike Vick-type yardage. I was a purist, and running with the quarterback out of a set pass play when that was clearly a glitch in those editions of the game was a violation of the spirit of the sport. It was infuriating, and my brother was a master of that black art, waiting to pull it out on third and long, which would force me to spy the quarterback later in the game with a linebacker and leave someone open. It also led to a lot of real life fighting, as brothers are prone to do. Now that San Francisco’s Collin Kaepernick is pulling that exact same move in order to bounce the Green Bay Packers from the playoffs each year though, I guess my frustration was unfounded. My brother and Zach were just pioneers. My brother was a tremendous player, and he even jumped on the “import your draft class” from NCAA to Madden train. He turned Ronnie McGill, a solid but not all-world tailback at North Carolina into a two-time Heisman winner and eventually a Super Bowl champion. Real life got involved when, as a UNC student, he posted about this on Facebook and McGill saw the post, then posted on Will’s wall “thanks for the Heismans and Super Bowls man.” Eventually you’re going to put in less time on video games, that’s just how life works. You may not ever really stop, and that’s cool. Some people even build a career out of video games in development or as a reviewer, which is an excellent idea, and something I should’ve looked into. I eventually slowed down because of my kids and my work. I knew I was done a few years back when I went to try and buy an original Xbox

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“The clerk looked at me like I’d brought in a telegraph and asked for parts for it.” controller at a GameStop and the clerk looked at me like I’d brought in a telegraph and asked for parts for it. Look, the last system I got was a Wii, and buying that system was depressing enough because I knew it wasn’t as good as other stuff on the market, but I knew my wife would play some of the games with me. Once you’re buying a system based on whether your wife will play it with you, it’s probably time to hang up the virtual cleats. It’s easy and kind of cliche to look back on all the time I spent playing video games as a waste. I guess I could’ve been dating (I’m pretty sure this wasn’t by choice), reading classical literature or studying string theory, which surely would’ve made me a more wellrounded and welladjusted person. But studying string theory doesn’t allow you to create lasting memories with friends while turning Ole Miss Bart Isley, into a superpower. ✖ CRE ATIVE DIRECTOR

back talk »

What are your NCAA or Madden memories? Contact Bart at: bart@scrimmageplay.com

See a photograph you like? Defensive stand Warriors goalie has more than one trick | By Ryan Yemen

At Scrimmage Play we pride our selves on offering the best possible graphics Two years ago the Western Albemarle boys to Shin, who doubles as a Junior National Judo soccer team get was fueled its underclassmen medalist, we can our byhands on, in both our but has developed into one of the with sophomores and freshman bearing the area’s most versatile goalkeepers. magazine as well as at our website at brunt of the work load. The netminder has shown he’s capable of Now two years later, forwards Aaron Myers making big saves, particularly in the team’s www.scrimmageplay.com and Alex Nolet, as well as senior defender two ties. In the first game of the season, Tom Rogers are all in their senior seasons and looking to earn a Region II bid, something that Orange County snatched away from them in the Jefferson District semifinals last season. After the first month of play, the Warriors seem to have the defensive side of the equation figured out and junior goalkeeper Kai Shin is a big part of that. Before Western went on its spring break, none of its four opponents were able to score more than once, a testament to the team’s play in the middle of the field, but also a nod

Shin endured wave after wave of Albemarle attack, but stood tall and showed no rust in the 1-1- tie. But while Shin’s on the field because he can make stops, his strong leg has also been of great use as he’s able to easily clear the zone but also spark fast breaks all by himself. The Warriors averaged a little over two goals per contest before the break, but if that average starts to increase, don’t be surprised if it’s because of Shin’s ability to contribute to the transition game. ✖

We want to make sure that our readers have the same opportunity to have these photos. If something catches your eye in either the magazine or on the web, you can order the photograph for yourself.

Whether it’s a 4x6 glossy print or a 13x11 mounted photo, we’ve got a full range of possibilities for you to choose from. Simply visit our smugmug website at

scrimmageplay.smugmug.com Covenant 1/2 page

Western Albemarle’s Kai Shin hauls in a shot during his team’s 1-1 tie with Albemarle that kicked off the soccer season for both squads. (Frank Crocker)