The St. Tammany Farmer 08-27-2025

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20 years later

St. Tammany remembers Hurricane Katrina

Before Katrina. After Katrina.

That’s how nearly all southeast Louisiana residents who lived here for the devastating hurricane continue to define life following one of the most harrowing events in state, if not American, history What began as a tropical wave in the Caribbean and crossed Florida as a relatively mild Category 1 storm, grew into a Category 5 monster that filled the Gulf before slamming into the Louisiana coast near Buras on Aug 29, 2005. By the time Katrina made landfall, it had weakened to a Category 3, with sustained winds of up to 129 mph. And still, the damage was practically incalculable, from Plaquemines Parish through St. Bernard Parish and eventually St. Tammany Parish, particularly the eastern edge of the northshore. Katrina passed just east of Slidell, pushing 20 feet of water in front of it with accompanying winds of more than 100 mph. The floodwater and winds were higher just across the state line in Mississippi, and failed levees in New Orleans allowed water to submerge the city for weeks. The situation was dire everywhere, as people suffered from a disaster

Kirk Davis tears out some plaster from a wall as Stephen Short sweeps

School on Wednesday, Oct. 17, 2007. Brock was inundated with water during Hurricane Katrina on Aug. 29, 2005, and eventually reopened in 2008.

INSIDE

ä James Hartman, former Sheriff’s Office PIO, recalls Katrina moments that stick. Page 4A

ä Former schools superintendent recalls devastation, but also crucial cooperation by community Page 5A

ä Mary and Eric DuBuisson reflect on how storm changed direction of their lives. Page 6A

ä Former Parish President Kevin Davis says

Library Director Kelly LaRocca leaving for job at state library

LaRocca’s departure follows years of political turmoil spurred by controversy over library’s collection

BY WILLIE SWETT Staff writer

St. Tammany Library Director Kelly LaRocca, who successfully campaigned to renew the library’s funding source in March while navigating a yearslong controversy around the library’s collection, plans to leave her position for a job at the state library system at the end of September

“I’m looking forward to being a private citizen again,” LaRocca said in a phone interview on Aug. 21. “I don’t think I’ll be having as much involvement in politics at all.” LaRocca will be an associate state librarian, which

she said will provide a “new way to look at libraries for me — from a state perspective.”

In the past three years, as the St. Tammany Library

Task force forms to battle child exploitation onnorthshore

BY WILLIE SWETT Staff writer

In response to a rising number of tips about suspected child exploitation, District Attorney Collin Sims has announced a new task force aimed at preventing child exploitation. “It’s like you’re drowning in information, and no one alone can go out there and work it,” Sims said at a news conference at the Children’s Advocacy Center’s Hope House in Covington.

The task force is a collaboration of the 22nd Judicial District Attorney’s Office, Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill, the sheriffs of St. Tammany and Washington parishes, and other state and federal partners. Murrill said the number of cyber tips that her office’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force has received from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children has skyrocketed in recent years, from 809 in 2013 to 13,644 in 2023. A tip might include someone possibly sharing child pornography or enticing a child to share sexual content. Normally, Sims said, after Murrill’s office receives the tips, they are directed to the appropriate local law enforcement agencies. But with the new task force, Sims’ office will also track the tips for St. Tammany and Washington parishes and help direct them to the appropriate agency

“It’s a force multiplier,” Sims said. The announcement of the new task force also comes on the heels of another task force Sims’ office is spearheading, a multiagency group created to arrest and prosecute opioid dealers. Unlike the opioid task force, which includes agencies in Tangipahoa and Jefferson parishes, the child exploitation task force is focused on St. Tammany and Washington parishes.

“I think the thing that I underestimated

Voters face changes in registration rules

BY JESSICA SAGGIO Contributing writer

Eileen deHaro can rattle off stories about disappointed voters like it’s her job, and it is, sort of. DeHaro is not only the local League of Women Voters president, she is also a commissionerin-charge for the elections department in St. Tammany Parish. This means, not only is she working at the front end educating voters ahead of time, but she’s there at the polls to help them on election day in an official capacity The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan, nonprofit American organization founded in 1920, and its ongoing major activities include registering voters, providing voter information, boosting voter turnout and advocating for voting rights. DeHaro advises residents to check their voting status regularly to head off mistakes or misunderstandings, a check that is especially important in Louisiana this election cycle, where big changes in voting laws are taking effect. Always be prepared, deHaro said. She’s seen what can go wrong. Like the couple who had registered together, but only one registration went through, or the woman who got stuck at the wrong polling location for an hour waiting on a ride. Then there was the military serviceman who thought he could both register and vote on the same day The stories could go on and on. And with the changes in voting

PHOTO BY SCOTT THRELKELD

Tammany voters have two weeks to register for Oct. 11 election

Deadline to register to vote is Sept. 10

Staff report

The last day to register to vote in person for the Oct. 11 Municipal Parochial Primary Election is Wednesday, Sept. 10, according to Registrar of Voters M. Dwayne Wall. Those registering to vote in person will need identification with a parish address.

Office hours that day will be

8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., although the Slidell office at 520 Old Spanish Trail, Suite 2F, will be closed for lunch from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. The Covington office is located at 601 N. Jefferson Ave.

The last day to register Geaux Vote Online is Saturday, Sept 20 Just Google Geaux Vote Online Registration and go straight to the correct spot in the Louisiana secretary of state’s website. In addition, all mail registration

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laws handed down by the Legislature over the last two years, deHaro says it’s now especially imperative voters stay ahead of the curve — or else they could end up the unintentional main character of yet another one of her cautionary tales

“I’ve had so many people get angry because they’re not properly registered and they thought they were,” she said.

The changes to voting laws include new requirements to provide proof of citizenship, greater restrictions on absentee voting, closed primaries and the dissolution of the Independent Party in Louisiana. All of these things have the potential of causing hiccups for voters, said deHaro, so it’s important to double-check one’s voting status sooner rather than later The first election in St. Tammany is Oct. 11 and is a primary for the Slidell mayoral race and the Slidell-area fire district. The easiest way to check voter status or register to vote is to visit www.geauxvote.com or to download the Geaux Vote app, she said.

Those who need to change their registration status need to do so 30 days prior to an election, or 20 days if done online If changing registration in person, that can be done at the St. Tammany Registrar of Voting Office, the Office of Motor Vehicles, Department of Children and Family Services, WIC offices, food stamp offices, Medicaid offices, offices serving those with disabilities or armed forces recruitment offices.

DeHaro said the biggest change will be for those who were registered as Independent She said many voters register as “Independent” because they don’t want to be associated with a political party, but until Aug. 1 of this year, there was an Independent Party of Louisiana. That party no longer exists and voters previously registered as Independent have had their status changed to “No Party.” Notifications of the change were sent via mail to any Louisiana voter who was registered as an Independent.

Given that the state has moved

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system has been enshrouded in controversy over minors’ access to items in the collection with sexual and LGBTQ+ themes, LaRocca has treaded a narrow path with her approach Now, she said, she is ready to enter “a different phase of life,” one that is out of the spotlight. “My family is looking forward to that, too,” she said.

Twenty years LaRocca started as a reference librarian in St. Tammany in April 2005, just a few months before

applications must be received or postmarked by Oct. 10.

The race for Slidell mayor is the marquee item on a very short Oct. 11 ballot.

Bill Borchert, mayor of the city since January, when previous mayor Greg Cromer resigned to take a job with the state, faces off against Slidell Police Chief Randy Fandal.

The winner will finish the remainder of the four-year term, which ends June 30.

Slidell voters will have to decide again in March who they want to be mayor for the next full four-year term, which will begin July 1 and end June 30, 2030.

The only other item on the Oct. 11 ballot is a parcel fee renewal sought by St. Tammany Parish Fire Protection District No. 1, which serves Slidell and surrounding unincorporated areas The $39 fee per parcel would collect an estimated $1.4 million annually for a period of 10 years, beginning in 2026 and ending in 2035.

to a closed primary system, voters must have a party affiliation of Democrat, Republican or “No Party” to vote in primaries.

“This proactive change will allow voters formerly registered as Independents to participate in closed party primaries next year preventing voter confusion while maximizing participation,” Secretary of State Nancy Landry.

This is especially important in cases where one party dominates a race — such as an incumbent being challenged by several others of the same party, said deHaro. In those cases, primaries can affect the outcome.

Another change will be new requirements to provide proof of citizenship. However what documents will be needed to meet that requirement has not yet been determined.

Once the state provides guidance on that, the League of Women Voters will be actively working to educate the public, said deHaro. Guidelines on absentee ballots have also been altered with new rules that put strict parameters on who can hand out absentee ballots, how they are submitted and how to reapply for them.

New laws dictate that individuals and organizations cannot hand out absentee ballots to those who have not specifically requested one. Also, only immediate family members can submit a ballot on behalf of a voter or witness and deliver a mailin ballot. Seniors and those with disabilities will have to reapply for absentee ballots every four years, with the cycle beginning in 2025. Military members must file for absentee ballots separately through the Secretary of State.

With all the changes, voters need to remain vigilant about their status, said deHaro. Louisiana also purges voters if they haven’t voted in a long time. Mistakes happen she explained, and that’s all the more reason to verify voting credentials.

“The best thing we can let people know is check your registration ahead of time,” said deHaro. “Make sure you are not still registered at your old address, make sure you are (registered as) whichever party (or No Party) you choose. And for all the people who were Independent, don’t freak out because suddenly you are (listed as) No Party

Hurricane Katrina hit.

“It was a really, really interesting experience to be working at a public library with a storm of that magnitude.” She said she learned that she had to “just keep on going.”

LaRocca later was a branch manager in Covington and Slidell, the library’s assistant director and its interim director before eventually becoming director in February 2019. Her job took on an increasingly public role in recent years.

Since June 2022, when some of the parish’s library branches put up “Pride Month” displays, the library system has been ensnarled in controversy over books with sexual and LGBTQ+ themes, echo-

Lisey is a 17-month-old shorthair female who is waiting for a home that welcomes kitties.

PROVIDED PHOTOS Grasshopper is a 13-week-old pit bull terrier and German shepherd mix waiting at the St. Tammany Parish Animal Services shelter in Lacombe.

Shelter lowers fees to increase adoptions

Staff report

St. Tammany Parish Animal Services shelter in Lacombe has teamed up with NBC Universal’s nationwide “Clear the Shelters” campaign prioritizing homeless animals needing a family and a home. As part of that initiative, all adoption fees have been discounted to

help more families afford pets. Adoption feels for dogs are lowered to $35 and for cats, $30. The parish shelter seeks to be a no-kill shelter but that can only happen when people who want pets actually adopt them so that cats and dogs are not euthanized when the shelter runs out of space. To help people connect with

more sheltered pets, go online to look at all the adoptable animals, with a brief profile of each. The no-kill shelter depends on adoptions to prevent euthanizing for space. Five dogs have a deadline of Aug. 22 to be adopted. To see all of the shelter’s available pets, go to https://24petconnect. com/STPAdoptablePets.

PROVIDED PHOTO

Artist rendering of the new Northshore Humane Society community complex to be built near the existing facility just south of Covington.

Unleashed! Rescue Me Gala in Covington set Oct.

Staff report

The Northshore Humane Society’s signature annual event, Unleashed! Rescue Me Gala, takes place Oct. 4 at Covington Country Club.

Proceeds from this year’s 7 p.m.

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most before becoming sheriff was the extent of crimes against children both in type and severity,” Washington Parish Sheriff Jason Smith said at the news conference. St. Tammany Parish Sheriff Randy Smith’s office is also participating, as are local police departments across the two parishes, from Bogalusa to Covington.

ing a national trend.

In response, LaRocca oversaw the implementation of a tieredcard system that allowed parents to choose what library materials their kids had access to. St. Tammany’s tiered card system became a model for the state, LaRocca has said. The controversy over the library reached a fervor in May 2024, when the St. Tammany Parish Council replaced five of the six board members they had appointed, prompting a federal lawsuit that was dismissed by the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals earlier this year The only board member they did not replace, Ann Shaw, resigned this summer Because of the churn on the

gala — an evening of compassion, community and celebration go toward the cost of building the no-kill shelter’s new facility near Covington.

Northshore Humane promises lots of good animal stories, exquisite food, handcrafted drinks, a

Several speakers at the Aug 19 gathering noted the role Hope House plays in investigating child exploitation crimes. Based on data from 2021, when Hope House forensic interviews were used in prosecution, the conviction rate was 95.6%, according to Hope House Executive Director Thomas Mitchell.

In addition to its staff of three forensic investigators who conduct forensic interviews with child victims, the organization also has four trained therapists. On its walls are nearly 400 dif-

board, LaRocca said she has spent a significant amount of time onboarding new members and bringing them up to speed on the library’s branches and finances.

At the same time, this year

LaRocca also successfully led the library’s property tax renewal campaign, helping to ensure the library can remain funded with a dedicated property tax for 15 more years.

The hiring process for the new director will largely depend on the library board, LaRocca said. “I don’t expect it to be a quick process,” said Library Board President Chuck Branton, a lawyer and former library director who was appointed to the parish library board in February Branton said he was not sure

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live auction and the fan favorite cork pull, all taking place at the 20384 Harrison Ave. club. Tickets are $125 and on sale through Oct. 4. To get tickets or sign on as a sponsor, go to www.facebook.com/events/s/unleashed-rescue.

ferent colored handprints from children who have completed the organization’s therapy program since 2020. Unlike in some other parishes where sheriff’s offices host Children’s Advocacy Center – Hope House in Covington and its satellite office in Bogalusa are independent of law enforcement, Mitchell said, something he said becomes especially important in cases like that of former St. Tammany Parish Sheriff Jack Strain, who was convicted of child sexual abuse.

how the controversy around the library’s collection will play a role in the hiring process, but he said factors could include an opinion expected from Attorney General Liz Murrill on what “access” in libraries means, as well as a Fifth Circuit decision allowing books to be removed from a Texas library

“You ask questions about that person’s philosophy and belief system in a whole host of areas,” he said of the hiring process.

LaRocca’s final day will be sometime toward the end of September, she said. It is not clear who will serve as interim director before a new director is selected, but LaRocca said, “I think we want to ensure there is a smooth transition.”

SPORTS Joseph Halm jhalm@sttammanyfarmer.net

EVENT: Katrina: Then & Now, a community art and artifact exhibition featuring photos of Slidell locations devastated by the storm. Photographs taken just days after the storm on display next to recent shots of the same locations.WHERE: The George Dunbar Gallery at Slidell City Hall.

WHEN: Friday,Aug 29, an opening reception from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.; special gallery hours Aug. 30 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.After that, exhibit can be viewed Mondays through Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m Exhibit closes on Sept. 26 with a closing reception from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. To request additional showing call (985) 646-4375.

EVENT: A Community Gathering on Saturday,Aug 30, at 4 p.m. in Slidell Municipal Auditorium honoring the many recovery teams and volunteers who played critical roles prior to, during and following Hurricane Katrina Also includes a moment of reflection to remember those unable to return after the storm or lost as a result of it.

EVENT: The Spirit of Louisiana Second Line at 5 p.m. (following the community gathering) to honor individuals key to the recovery and rebuilding, from law enforcement and medical personnel

to sanitation workers and utility crews — and volunteers from throughout the United States and beyond. Led by the Storyville Stompers, the line starts from City Hall then makes the block adjacent to municipal buildings. Community members are welcome to join in or cheer along the route

EVENT: A Spirit of Louisiana Community Concert (following the second line) will be held At 6 p.m.in the Municipal Auditorium, the last municipal structure

FILE PHOTO BY DAVID GRUNFELD

A stranded motorist and his dog seek high ground at the Interstate 10 exit at Oak Harbor near Slidell as Hurricane Katrina pummeled the area 20 years ago. More than 15 feet of water inundated the Oak Harbor area on Aug. 29, 2005, with thousands of Slidell-area homes and businesses damaged by floodwater and wind

Adam Sambola was commissioned to create the ‘Spirit of Louisiana Katrina 20th Commemoration’ poster and capture the essence of two decades of resilience and rebirth. To do so, Sambola created RedBean the Crawfish preparing for the Spirit of Louisiana Second Line taking place Aug. 30. He included the band’s brass instruments; Louisiana’s state flower the magnolia; a leafy green fleur de-lis; and a backdrop of Katrina floodwaters. The original painting will be included in the ‘Katrina, Then and Now’ community art exhibition in the Slidell Cultural Center’s George Dunbar Gallery.

rebuilt post-Katrina.Will feature the Bucktown All-Stars, the first band to perform in Slidell in the initial post-storm Bayou Jam gathering Also, a special appearance by Vince Vance and the Valiants, performers in the second Bayou Jam after Katrina.

HOW MUCH: All events are free, but the concert requires a no-cost ticket. Get one per person online until they are gone at https://kreweofblackandgold.com/.

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both natural and man-made. Nearly 1,400 people died and an estimated $125 billion in property damage is now pegged at closer to $300 billion when adjusted for inflation.

Whether residents rode the storm out at home or returned weeks later to see the destruction firsthand, the memories remain difficult 20 years later

It is with that sense of humility that we remember Hurricane Katrina and all it claimed.

It also is with honor that we commemorate the rebuilding of our communities and the collaborative efforts that made them habitable once more.

Email Andrew Canulette at acanulette@sttammanyfarmer.net

Louisiana flora and fauna, is the new home of a Katrina memorial to be dedicated during a weekend marking the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina.

Katrina memorial to rest under Camp Salmen oaks

BY SUZIE HUNT Contributing writer

Nestled under a stand of live oaks, a permanent memorial acknowledging Hurricane Katrina’s impact on the people of St. Tammany Parish will be dedicated at Camp Salmen near Slidell on Aug. 29.

“There is no permanent memorial recognizing how Hurricane Katrina affected our community It changed the trajectory of our parish in many ways, and that needed to be recognized,” said Michael Vinsanau, public information director for St. Tammany Parish. The memorial, a bronze plaque atop a marble base and surrounded by an outline of a hurricane, will be unveiled during a ceremony beginning at 9 a.m. St. Tammany Parish President Mike Cooper and Kevin Davis, parish president during the hurricane’s landfall and recovery are scheduled to make remarks. The ceremony will include a reading by Louisiana Poet Laureate Alison Pelegrin, and Broadway actress Ava Johnson will sing. The memorial can be found near the entrance to the 130-acre park, but before the park pavilion Visitors should park in the provided lot and walk the trail to the monument. Camp Salmen was selected as the monument’s home due to its location near Slidell and its accessibility to the public, Vinsanau said. “Camp Salmen is a beautiful place of nature. The planning committee wanted the monument to be located someplace that was serene and where people could go to pay their respects and be at peace,” he said. The park includes four miles of nature trails, a wooden boardwalk, a playground, a pavilion and plenty of solitude among the south Louisiana flora and fauna at 35122 Parish Parkway, off Gause Boulevard West. The dedication ceremony is open to the public.

PROVIDED PHOTO BY ADELE FOSTER

Camp Salmen Nature Park, a 130-acre jewel of lush south

HURRICANE KATRINA

Former Sheriff’s Office PIO recalls Katrina

BY JAMES HARTMAN Special to The St. Tammany Farmer

For the landfall of Hurricane Katrina and for much of the immediate aftermath, I was housed at the Emergency Operations Center, which was then in Covington. As public information officer for the Sheriff’s Office, my job was to disseminate information before, during, and — especially after a crisis: When to evacuate, where to go, when to hunker down, and when to return. Communications were down in most places, but thanks to the foresight of the parish president, we had a giant generator, internet and some TV. Phone service was spotty, and at times, we could call 504 numbers, while at other times we could call any other area code

About four or five days after landfall (it’s all a blur now), the sheriff instructed me to meet a staffer in north Covington and then brief her at the Justice Center On the way, I somehow missed the 300,000-square-foot Justice Center and turned on the south side of it instead of the north. It proved to be providential. About 100 yards ahead on the otherwise deserted streets, I saw a man carrying two small bags. I stopped and asked if he was OK. He told me he lived in the French Quarter, had just gotten a ride to Covington and had not eaten in three days. I told him to get in.

I parked as close to the EOC as I could get, and we walked a few blocks, me carrying one of his suitcases. When we got to the outer door, he collapsed into me, sobbing and fell to the ground I called for help and we got him to the hospital When I went there that night to check on him, he was unconscious and the nurse told me he had taken eight bags of fluid — so far. If I hadn’t found him, she said, he wouldn’t have lasted much longer

Thank God I missed my turn.

Another memory: A deputy came to the head of the EOC table and said I was needed in the lobby A man presented himself to me there and said, “I’m a Marine Corps veteran, former (military police), a trained paramedic and a chaplain Where do you want me?”

I teared up and said, “I want you EVERYWHERE!” I don’t remember where I sent him, but I’ll never forget him. I’ll never forget the starving stranger I held in my arms, either I do try to forget those who abused Katrina for political and personal gain. I would try to forget it all but the experiences of good people doing great things will stay with me forever as it should be.” Ten days later, I literally collapsed on the mezzanine (of the EOC) A month later, I quit the Sheriff’s Office. There was a limit to how much human misery I could witness, and in those weeks, I had passed it

St. Tammany Parish President enters the parish’s

Large sections of the eastbound lanes of the I-10 twin span between New Orleans and Slidell collapsed during Katrina, as rising water in Lake Pontchartrain battered the bridges from below. The bridge remained closed for months until temporary spans were in place to rejoin the remaining bridge sections. New twin spans would eventually replace the damaged bridges years later Part of the old bridge was left in place and used as the St. Tammany Parish Fishing Pier, which now is closed, too, following extensive damage sustained in Hurricane Ida in 2021.

FILE PHOTO BY DAVID GRUNFELD

FILE PHOTO BY TRAVIS SPRADLING

HURRICANE KATRINA

Folse: Reopening schools was pivotal

Former superintendent recalls devastation, but also crucial cooperation from community

“I was deputy superintendent in 2005 and I was asked to remain in the parish to be the liaison between the school system and community leaders, law enforcement and emergency personnel. I lived in the old courthouse (then the parish Emergency Operations Center) for a while, and there were three or four of us who took turns getting a couple hours of sleep on the couch each night.

But with everyone in one place, communication was easier The way communication was back then, you almost had to be in person to get something done. If I needed to go look at a school, I had to get in the car with police or emergency workers and they’d take me to Slidell or wherever we were going It’s hard for younger people to understand because cellphones and the internet were so primitive then.

Salmen was the first school I saw There had been seven feet of water in there and mud. It was just destroyed and that hit me hard My first teaching and coaching job was at Salmen, so to walk through that gym, covered with mud and alligator tracks all through the mud, it was hard That community meant so much to me, and that whole area was just wrecked — Abney, Brock,

“The way communication was back then, you almost had to be in person to get something done. If I needed to go look at a school, I had to get in the car with police or emergency workers and they’d take me to Slidell or wherever we were going … It’s hard for younger people to understand because cellphones and the internet were so primitive then.”

TREY FOLSE, former superintendent of St.Tammany Parish Public Schools

St. Tammany Junior High. And really, every one of our schools had some sort of damage.

But, we had such cooperation getting back into our schools. Take Northshore High and Salmen High sharing a campus for a few years while Salmen was being rebuilt. I remember the banners that said “Spanthers” and how the Northshore students welcomed the Salmen students Salmen had afternoon and evening classes at Northshore and Northshore students were leaving campus when Salmen’s school day was beginning.

But the hugs, the wellwishes the Salmen students got from Northshore students; it was amazing. It was such a compliment to the two principals at the time, Byron Williams at Salmen and Mike Peterson at Northshore. Certainly, Gayle Sloan as superintendent was the leader, but the will to get our schools reopened, that spirit of cooperation, it really trickled down throughout the system and made it all work. We knew that getting our teachers and administrators back was critical. Louis Bouillon (still the school district’s chief information officer) got our website up and people were able to tell us where they were. That communication was huge. Our employees were able to tell us where they were, what their situation was.

Some principals didn’t have a house, but they came back so they could check on their students and families. They walked the neighborhoods. And when we set a date, and said we were going to open in October?

That was the biggest rallying cry for the parish. People couldn’t believe it, but they knew if we were open, then there had to be progress and they could start to come home.”

Story as told to Andrew Canulette

PROVIDED PHOTOS BY ST. TAMMANY PARISH SCHOOLS

Trey Folse inspects Salmen High School in the days immediately following Hurricane Katrina. ‘It was just destroyed and that hit me so hard,’ he said

Folse stands outside a wrecked Salmen High classroom after Hurricane Katrina destroyed the campus and much of south Slidell in 2005.

HURRICANE KATRINA

Kevin Davis says St. Tammany rebuilt better after Katrina

Former parish president was at forefront of St. Tammany’s yearslong recovery efforts

BY SARA PAGONES

Contributing writer

Kevin Davis had made it to Slidell from the parish Emergency Operation Center in downtown Covington on a four-wheeler as Hurricane Katrina was beginning to die down the afternoon of Aug. 29, 2005, dodging debris that covered the interstate.

“It looked like what I would imagine a war zone would look like,” the former parish president said, recalling downed electric lines and signs on Gause Boulevard and water on both sides of Interstate 10 at Old Spanish Trail.

During that initial foray, Davis was determined to check out his house, so he walked from Slidell Memorial Hospital to his home in Brugier “I remember my staff calling out, ‘Don’t go there, don’t go,’ as I was climbing over and under trees. But the sound I can remember is the swishing, just shhhhhhh, which was all the gas lines that were broken.

He found water to his waist outside the house and 2 feet inside. “And I’m thinking, the house looks fine. I don’t even think about the water because the reality of what I saw was that for many, their homes were destroyed

The early hours and days were traumatic. The phones started ringing in the EOC when the storm hit with people begging for help. And then the calls stopped as the phone system went down.

The parish had conducted regular hurricane exercises, but “I don’t think any of us thought in the 21st century that we’d lose phone service, electricity water all of that,” Davis said.

What followed was the long, arduous recovery: daily meetings at the Lacombe Heart Hospital with representatives from every municipality and agency as many as 100 people who tackled the priority of the day “And the next day we would start again” Davis said.

“We did that for months.”

Davis also wrangled with FEMA over emergency housing, with Davis begging for campers to put in people’s yards. “They wanted big mobile home parks here, there, everywhere, but I knew it was going to take them a year to build them,” he said.

Two decades later, Davis calls Aug. 29, 2005, as the day the world changed.

“It impacted everyone, not just one street, one neighborhood, but the whole parish Even if you didn’t have damage, you were changed forever Because they saw what happened to their neighbors, their towns and their communities, their schools.”

But Davis also believes St. Tammany has built back better “I think people at the time became closer (and) realized community was important.”

Mary and Eric DuBuisson had Katrina losses and new starts

Olde Towne business, home in Eden Isles both pummeled by massive storm

BY SARA PAGONES Contributing

“He learned to walk in a FEMA trailer His first steps were sideways,” his grandmother said.

standing on a flat roof on the building’s rear

“It was all just a bad dream, it was just so surreal,” Mary said. “We were just so thankful we were where we were, and yet,

knowing we weren’t going back any time soon.” She was right. From Lafayette, they headed to friends in Baton Rouge, where Eric began writing down every piece of equipment he would

a lot of it and I just couldn’t do it.”

He hired friends to finish the job.

But 20 years later what stands out most to the DuBuissons is how things got better Eric, a former high school band director, returned to the classroom, teaching in the Jobs for America’s Graduates program. Mary launched a political career, serving as a state legislator

“Eric thinks that was the best job he ever had to work with the kids at Salmen and the difference he made in people’s lives. And honestly, I think the same for me (as a legislator),” Mary said.

need to start over, something they’d faced a decade earlier when an earlier flood cost them $250,000. “I figured, $300,000 to $400,000 and the delay and cleanup and all that would have to be done, and I said, ‘That’s it folks, I’m too old,’ “ Eric remembers. The couple’s second home, a weekend getaway in Eden Isles, also flooded. They lived in a FEMA trailer with their son and toddler grandson while repairs were made.

“The new normal was wonderful. I wouldn’t have wanted Katrina to happen, but in hindsight, it’s been good,” Eric said.

FILE PHOTO BY SCOTT THRELKELD

St. Tammany Parish President Kevin Davis and his son, John Clay Davis, join Sen. Mary Landrieu, in tossing white carnations into Lake Pontchartrain at North Shore Beach on Aug. 29, 2007. It was part of St. Tammany Parish’s Ceremony of Hope in remembrance of the twoyear anniversary of Hurricane Katrina ravaging south Louisiana and the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

STAFF FILE PHOTO BY DAVID GRUNFELD

St. Tammany Parish President Kevin Davis held a press conference at the parish council chambers near Mandeville in Sept. 2006 to discuss demolishing homes wrecked by Hurricane Katrina more than a year earlier

PROVIDED PHOTO BY

DUBUISSON

HURRICANE KATRINA

Ben Morris, former Slidell mayor, spent second term in FEMA trailers

Slidell government worked from cluster of trailers while city rebuilt after Hurricane Katrina

BY SARA PAGONES Contributing writer

Ben Morris had just started his second term as Slidell mayor when Hurricane Katrina left the city devastated, and he spent the remainder of his time in office operating from Federal Emergency Management Agency trailers, only returning to a rebuilt City Hall three weeks before he left office.

But 20 years later, when Morris looks back, it’s the funny moments that stand out.

“I’m standing in the water near the Post Office, and I think it was CNN, I’m not sure, and they said, “Haven’t you been talking to FEMA?’ I said, ‘Talking to FEMA, like my father used to say, is like peeing in a fiddle to make it sound good.’ I never saw that (interview); 90% of my stuff gets cut. But a buddy of mine in Cairo called and said, ‘You’re still crazy.’ Apparently it made some international report.” While his sound bites made some news, Morris said Slidell was often overlooked. He estimated that 75% to 80% of the city’s housing and business stock were damaged, including his own home and those of family members.

“That goes from catastrophic to some shingles blown off. And

Katrina wrecked their homes, but Slidell pair rebuilt as one

BY ANDREW CANULETTE Staff writer

Rene Arcemont knew he was falling for Samantha Junius soon after they started dating in June 2005. Less than three months later, Hurricane Katrina smacked south Louisiana and drove a 350-mile gap into their blooming relationship.

Arcemont, who purchased his first home in February 2005, was helpless as flood water rose from Bayou Liberty and pushed 4 feet of water into his new house just outside Slidell. Junius, who lived on the south shore at the time, happened to be in Texas as Katrina loomed in the Gulf, and she stayed there when forecasts showed the storm was likely to make landfall in south Louisiana. When it did, returning to New Orleans wasn’t possible, so she took a nursing job in Houston. Arcemont who had been a manager at Sam’s Club in New Orleans East (which is where he met his future wife), was transferred to a Baton Rouge store and eventually the Slidell-area Sam’s, where he sold gas and other critical supplies to customers whose own lives were turned upside down on Aug. 29.

Though there was physical distance between the new couple, the courtship continued, with Arcemont driving to Houston to visit Junius as often as he could. Not long after the storm, Arcemont proposed marriage and Junius said “yes.”

There was work to be done, however, before they could marry Junius had purchased her parents’ home in New Orleans East the same month that Katrina destroyed it.

“I saw on the news how bad it was,’ she said. “I saw how bad it was at (Methodist Hospital) in the East where I worked. I knew I wasn’t going home anytime soon.”

Arcemont’s Bayou Liberty home was wrecked, too, but reparable. A handyman neighbor was doing the bulk of the rebuild, but working alone took time. Arcemont longed to be underneath his own roof again so badly that he began sleeping on the wooden floor of the gutted house.

“I had to be there again,” Arcemont said. “I remember telling Sam, ‘I have one small room and a window AC unit running. I was in a sleeping bag on the floor and I slept like a baby.”

The couple eventually moved into a FEMA trailer while repairs were finished on the Bayou Liberty home. They married in 2007 and moved a decade later to Olde Towne Slidell, another area that Katrina hammered.

“I called the guy that wrote the letter and I said, ‘Hey you gonna come to the news conference?’ And he says, ‘What are you talking about, mayor?’ I said, ‘Well, I have no place to go. All our buildings have been mostly destroyed, which I think

the only thing we heard about is (New Orleans’) 9th Ward. We started calling ourselves ‘The Forgotten City.’” But not everyone forgot Slidell. “We had Operation Blessing, the Mormons, the Baptists, the Methodists showed up. I stole a Marine battalion. They showed up and didn’t know where to go, so I put them at the old Schwegmann’s store. They were here for about a month and a half, and then some guy showed up looking for them.” Morris recalled the frustrations of dealing with FEMA, although it improved over time. Still, he got an eviction notice while city government was still operating out trailers.

you are probably aware of. When do we have to move out of the trailers you’re evicting us from?” FEMA also resisted rebuilding the city auditorium, claiming it was damaged by slow rising water and not a surge, but Morris presented photos proving otherwise. “I said if that’s slow rising water, I’m a Russian missile mechanic.” The last contract he signed as mayor was for rebuilding of the auditorium.

The importance of “home” was galvanized for the couple during Katrina’s aftermath so much so that Arcemont worked for three years as director of East St. Tammany Habitat for Humanity, helping build affordable houses throughout the greater Slidell area. Junius became a regular with Habitat’s Women’s Build program, teaming with other civic-minded women to put families in homes.

“Katrina changed us forever,” Arcemont said “But it also gave me the best gift of my life, and that’s my wife.”

Slidell Mayor Ben Morris reads ‘Five Minutes’ Peace,’ by Jill Murphy, to students Nov 9, 2005, at Abney Elementary in Slidell. Students from Eliot Elementary School in Eliot, Maine, sent 200 books with personal inscriptions to Abney, which had been heavily damaged by Hurricane Katrina. The mayor read to first, second and third graders before he and Councilwoman Kim Harbison passed out the books to students.

FILE PHOTO BY AMANDA MCCOY

Slidell Mayor Ben Morris reflects on Hurricane Katrina and the state of his city during a speech July 1, 2006.

FILE PHOTOS BY SCOTT THRELKELD

Slidell Mayor Ben Morris, in this photo taken in July 2009, looks around the old City Council chamber which was remodeled into a series of workrooms and offices on the upper floor at Slidell City Hall. The entire city government complex had to be rebuilt in the years following Hurricane Katrina.

STAFF PHOTO BY ANDREW CANULETTE Samantha Junius-Arcemont and her husband, Rene Arcemont, both had houses wrecked by Hurricane Katrina. The couple’s relationship blossomed during the storm’s aftermath and they rebuilt together. They’ve been married now for 18 years.

Leanne Schaefer named Abita Springs’ town clerk

BY KIM CHATELAIN

Contributing writer

The town government in Abita Springs is undergoing a bit of a makeover after the departure of one of its top administrators.

The Board of Aldermen approved a resolution on Aug. 19 confirming Mayor Dan Curtis’ appointment of Leanne Schaefer as the town clerk, replacing Janet Dufrene who left the post in early August.

In Abita Springs, the town clerk serves as the top administrator under the may-

or and is responsible for the day-to-day workings of the town government.

Schaefer has worked in various jobs at Town Hall for 12 years, most recently serving as the director of intergovernmental affairs.

“She knows everything about how the town works,” Curtis said shortly before the board’s unanimous vote on the resolution. “She knows her job — the job she’s doing now and she knows the job of town clerk as well. And I need someone who is going to keep things moving forward.”

Dufrene, who had been with town government since 2019, handled myriad duties, including overseeing daily operations and administering the town’s small claims court. With Dufrene’s departure, the clerk of court duties and several responsibilities she handed will be reassigned to other employees. That means the town will not add staff, at least initially, Curtis said. The reassignments will allow Schaefer to focus on the duties of both the town clerk and the director of

intergovernmental affairs.

Alderman Stephen Saussy said he believes Schaefer is the most qualified person for the town clerk job. But he expressed concern that she or other employees might be overwhelmed by the additional workload created by the reshuffling of assignments to cover the loss of Dufrene.

“Do we have enough staff on hand…?” Saussy asked.

“It’s a lot quite a bit of work,” Schaefer responded. “We’ve talked about redistributing some of the duties. I feel confident that

I’ll be able to take care of the responsibilities that I had in addition to the new ones.”

Board member Regan Contois said the town should establish job descriptions for the positions that are being impacted by the reassignment of duties.

Curtis said those descriptions should be ready for the board’s review by the next meeting on Sept. 9.

Town officials said the law requires a new town clerk to be appointed within 20 days of the position being vacated.

Leanne Schaefer

Mary Ann Haase to exhibit in Atrium Gallery near Covington

BY SHEILA GRISSETT Staff writer

The Atrium Gallery will host an opening reception on Sept. 13 to spotlight local artist Mary Ann Haase and an exhibition of her work that will hang through Oct 31

The 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. reception in the 5,800 square-foot gallery near Covington is open to the public, and all are invited

The show is being presented in collaboration with Saladino Gallery The two galleries announced a partnership last summer designed to bring more art to a greater sector of the community and increase support for artists working or living in this region. It also elevates the Atrium’s visibility and reputation in the Louisiana art community and brings in larger audiences, while at the same time, it expands the visibility of the artists the Saladino Gallery represents.

Atrium Gallery curator-director Ann Loomis says the partnership continues the galleries’ shared commitment of exposing the community to a broader range and depth of art than they might not otherwise see Haase is a photographer and mixed-media artist who holds degrees in art and liberal studies from the Cleveland Institute of Art and Wesleyan University; additionally, she studied at the Studio Arts College International in Florence, Italy, where she also

taught.

Growing up in northern Ohio, Haase developed a love for photography early in life. And while she continues to value traditional photography and its ability to capture a direct experience, the artist said she also craves the concept of “unbound” photographic images that are freed from the confines of a camera’s viewfinder

“Within our complex, sometimes chaotic human experience, there also exists interconnectedness, balance and beauty if we choose to pay attention to it,” Haase says, explaining her art and process of creation.

“My work is about the ever winding path between. I make work that is the visual representation of the inner-connected, complicated relationship between chaos and order, especially their mutual dependence; one not existing without the other.”

Collaborating gallery owner Danny Saladino says Haase has “an amazing ability” to communicate powerful feelings or stories through carefully arranging compositions of her photography, symbolic imagery and subtle washes of paint.”

The Atrium is part of the Christwood residential community at 100 Christwood Boulevard and can be accessed through the Brewster Road entrance. The gallery is open to the public from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, and there is no charge to come in and view the art.

PROVIDED PHOTOS

‘One Thing Leads to Another’

Artist Mary Ann Haase

30 by Ninety Theater lights up Mandeville

Seymour, right, tangles with Audrey II in the skid row flower shop during ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ opening this weekend at Mandeville’s 30 by Ninety Theatre. Michael Breath Jr takes the leading role in the show about the blood-thirsty vegetation in this musical comedy.

BY MARGARET ALBERT

Contributing writer

Mandeville was “dark” far too long for Tom Bubrig, Jason Leader and Adolfo Rodriguez, three community theater-lovers not willing to settle for such a continuing void in the city’s cultural milieu. The three talked about how to fill that hole, and in 2014, realized their dream by opening the 30 by Ninety Theater a name drawn from the map coordinates of Mandeville.

Now 11 years strong, the nonprofit community theater at 880 Lafayette St. brings a full slate of shows and special events to the community annually, starting with a Mainstage show involving kids of all ages.

Mainstage is followed by seven full-length productions of comedies, musicals and dramas, as well as a summer workshop for students. This year, six summer theater camps for youths 7 to 17 — no experience needed — produced six shows, from two Broadway Revues to “Beetlejuice” and “Finding Nemo Jr.”

There are also comedy nights and other special events, from time to time. And with the recent acquisition of additional space, there are now dedicated stages for Mainstage and Youth Shows, creating possibilities for after-school programs, such as the current Show Choir on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Additionally, 30 by Ninety offers a unique Broadway Singing Contest, now in its sixth year

“Not everyone can commit to the time and scheduling demands of a rehearsal period and the run of a show,” Leader explains. “This is an option for those individuals to experience something creative and magical.”

To widen the participation field, this year’s contest has added the age category of 40 and above, and auditions are scheduled for Sept 7.

Participants in the contest must portray a Broadway character for the audition. Costumes are encouraged, and auditions are closed, meaning no audience watches the initial round of tryouts.

A panel of three judges will decide the next round, much in the manner of American Idol. Songs performed must be from a Broadway musical, not a movie. And because songs are often added or removed for the movie version of a Broadway show, it is important that those auditioning understand this important difference.

Performers next will have 90 seconds to sell their number The finalists will perform before the judges once more, this time with an audience. Cash prizes are awarded, and there will be a People’s Choice feature for audience members to cast their individual votes for $1 via Venmo.

So dig out those tap shoes, and don’t throw away your shot at Broadway — community theater-style. For audition details, schedule and expectations for the Broadway Singing Contest, as well as the season’s line up of shows, special programming, ticket information and membership opportunities, go online to visit www.30byninety.com. The theater also maintains an active Facebook page.

Mr

Ed Morvant plays

Mushnik in 2021, the flower shop owner on skid row where most of the action takes place in ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ — a perennial fan favorite at 30 by Ninety Theatre.

In a 2023 production of ‘Always A Bridesmaid’ at 30 By Ninety Theatre, four girlfriends have for decades kept a vow they made as teens to walk in each other’s weddings, no matter what, when or where.

PROVIDED PHOTOS

‘The Play That Goes Wrong’ at 30 by Ninety Theatre in Mandeville earlier this year included from left Quinton Williams, John Wesley and Meagan Harris in the comedy about the opening night mishaps of a community theater production.

Covington goes white for a night to spotlight the arts

It was a night of white linen in the downtown Covington’s Cultural Arts District on Aug. 6, a fitting event to benefit and further expand the city’s public arts program. It was the 10th such soiree in Covington that showcased creatives of all ilks, from mixologists and cooks to musicians and singers, fine artists and sculptors, and a host of hand-crafters and makers. It also gave local retailers the chance to showcase their merchandise and offer special items. Pedestrians strolled, shopped, ate, sang, danced and toasted. And to help beat back the heat, most wore white linen or other light summer clothing. After all, it was White Linen Night for Public Art.

Amy Coakley, Madison Coakley, Lana Alphonso

Kala Sandoval, Peighton Sandoval, Aimee Corass

Michelle Krummel, Patrick Noonan, Kimberly Hatcher

Rene Williams, Lori Kilgore, Renae Montegut

Annabelle and the Bombays

Katelyn Hartenberg, Tim Leblanc, Lisa Salles

PHOTOS BY BOBBY GILBOY

Holly Hatcher, Kim Callegan, Kerry Callegan

MUSIC

LOCAL FLAVOR: Singersongwriter-piano player

Serabee’s music taps into her years performing in Mississippi and Louisiana churches, rural roadhouses and later, bars and performance halls in New Orleans and beyond

Melding all of that into her own sound, Serabee — along with her special guest, New Orleans vocalist Queta Cavalier — will perform Sept 12 at the North Star Theatre stage in Mandeville, 347 Girod St. All tickets are reserved, so pick a seat online. General admission $25; VIP tickets, $60, which includes nibbles, drinks and a meet and greet with the artist. Get them at northstartheatre.org. Doors open at 5:45 p.m, and the music starts at 7 p.m

BLUEGRASS: A free Bluegrass Jam on Aug. 29 (every final Friday) from 6 p.m.-9 p.m. in the Covington Farmer’s Market Gazebo, 100 N. Columbia St. It takes place during Columbia Street Block party in the walkable historic downtown area. See nstms. org for details.

CELTIC: A free Irish slow/ fast session on Aug. 31 (final Sunday) from noon to 2 p.m. at St. John’s Coffeehouse, 535 E. Boston St., in downtown Covington. Play numbers slowly to learn, then speed up the tempo. See nstms.org for details and music.

THEATER

YELLOW: Follow Dorothy from Kansas along the famed yellow brick road in the classic story, “The Wizard of Oz,” showing Aug. 22 through Sept. 7 at Slidell Little Theatre. Based on the classic book by L. Frank Baum and the MGM motion picture, as adapted by the Royal Shakespeare Company, this is a full-length stage version, complete with music that includes “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.” Directed by Scott Sauber. Cast includes: Dorothy (Lilly Monchgesang); Heather Orgeron (Wicked Witch of the West); Fred Martinez (Wizard of Oz); Trenton Gilmore, Michael Chandler and Juleea Berthelot (Scarecrow, Tin Man and Cowardly Lion); Muffy Vanderbilt (Glinda); Emily Maurer (Aunt Em); and Lucas Bissett (Uncle Henry). Also watch Noach Osborne (Captain of the Guard), Matthew Hitchcock (Nikko, the money commander) and a large ensemble. Shows at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. over two more long weekends at 2024 Nellie Drive. General admission seats are $35; students and seniors, $25. See the slidelllittletheatre.org website for tickets.

FOURSOME: Playmakers Theater will open its 71st season with “Don’t Dress for Dinner,” a French farce and classic how-could-this-go-wrong tale that leaves audiences laughing. See it Sept. 6-21 and watch Bernard planning a romantic weekend with his chic Parisian mistress in his charming converted French farmhouse whilst his wife Jacqueline, is away. He has arranged for a cordon bleu cook to prepare gourmet delights and has also invited his best friend, Robert, along to provide the alibi. It’s foolproof, you think. But imagine that Robert turns up not realizing why he’s there and imagine that Robert and Jacqueline are secret lovers. What could possibly go wrong? Directed by Julie Generes. Friday and Satur-

day shows at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. at 19106 Playmakers Road in Covington. Tickets $15-$25; get them at Playmakers-theater-05.webself.net

HOPE: The Swamplight Theatre in Ponchatoula will produce the play “Every Brilliant Thing” on Sept. 12, 13, 19 & 20 to coincide with National Suicide Awareness Month. This powerful one-man show offers a poignant, funny, and ultimately hopeful exploration of depression and the things that make life worth living. Limited seating. Audience will sit on three sides of the performance stage to provide an intimate space that encourages audience interaction. Get tickets at swamplight.org for the show at 950 S.W. Railroad Ave. Not recommended for children under 16 due to frank discussion.

ART POP UP: The Mandeville Artists Guild will hold a PoP Up Art Market on Sept. 14 from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the Mandeville Trailhead, 675 Lafitte St. Members will display a variety of art for sale. Free for members to participate; $10 for others. Join the guild for $50 at Mandevilleartistguild.com. Two more guild pop-ups ups planned for later this year at the trailhead TERRABELLA: On Sept. 20, TerraBella Village near Covington will host an evening art stroll called Canvas & Chords that is similar to the white linen events held in New Orleans and Covington each summer. Canvas & Chords will combine dozens of juried art vendors, live music from Jake Gunter and 8 Track Acoustic, food trucks, beer, wine and cocktails and open houses at participating businesses along Terra Bella Boulevard. A portion of the event’s proceeds will go to the St. Tammany Art Association. For details, see terrabellavillage.com/event PLEIN AIR: A collection of impressionistic paintings by Peg Usner, the 2025 Scenic Rivers Art Exhibition poster winner, on display through October 2025, every Thursday through Sunday, from noon until 4 p.m., at Far Horizons Art Gallery, 82286 La. 25, in Folsom. The exhibition showcases her distinctive perspective and ability to capture the natural world of south Louisiana and the Deep South.

SUMMER: The St. Tammany Art Association’s Summer Show at the Miriam Barranger Gallery in the Art House, 320 N. Columbia St., in downtown Covington, will hang through Sept. 13 and is open to the public Wednesdays through Saturdays. For the hours or more information, call (985) 892-8650 or email info@ sttammany.art.

COMMUNITY GUMBO

JOY: The JOY Charity Benefit will take place Sept. 20 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Lamb of God Lutheran Church, 57210 Allen Road, near Slidell. Discover unique homemade quilts and participate in a silent auction featuring a framed print of LSU TIGER COUNTRY 1989, autographed by artist Betty Malone. Enjoy food, tea, door prizes, and live music. Entry tickets are $5 at the door.

ADULTS: The Adult 55+ Young at Heart group at First Baptist Church Covington has music, laughter and lunch on the menu Sept. 16 when

Benjie Harlan entertains in the church’s central hall at 10:30 a.m. The program concludes with lunch at noon for a cost of $15, payable by cash or check at the door. Online registration is a must at fbccov.org/adults-55 no later than noon on Sept. 11. Everyone 55 years and up is invited.

BIRDING: The next Early Birds “bird walking” session takes place Sept. 13 at Fontainebleau State Park near Mandeville, weather permitting. Newcomers welcome. Meet up at 8 a.m. near the splash pad for a two-hour walk on flat ground and along the beach. Binoculars provided, but participants should bring sunscreen, water, hiking shoes and hat. Accessible toilet facilities. The park has an all-terrain wheelchair available for rental (firstcome, first-served); reserve it at www.lastateparks.com/ all-terrain-chair. Park charges $3 to enter.

MANDY: Keep Mandeville

Beautiful will hold its Fall Citywide Cleanup on Sept. 20 from 9 a.m. until noon.

Meet at Lakefront Gazebo at 2129 Lakeshore Drive. Do the work and get free food and an event T-shirt. See KMB@ cityofMandeville.com for more.

PEOPLE WHO MEET

WIDOWS: The Widows’ Social Club of Slidell will next meet Aug. 30 at 10 a.m. in Genesis Hall at Aldersgate United Methodist Church, 360 Robert Blvd. Guests will be Slidell Police Department Canine Division members with one or more of their trained police dogs. All widows welcome. Come make new friends who share your special interests. Questions? Call Cindy Alberts, (985) 707-7676.

GROUP: The Northshore Parkinson’s Support Group next meets Sept. 3 — 6 p.m. social time, meeting at 6:30 p.m. — at Lamb of God Lutheran Church, 57210 Allen Road, near Slidell. Johnny Walton, Medtronic DBS Therapy representative, will be the guest speaker. The meetings are free and open to anyone who wants to live well with Parkinson’s disease, their care partners, medical professionals, and others with an interest or a need.

NEWCOMERS: The Northlake Newcomers kick off their 2025-26 year with the club’s annual September Brunch on Sept. 12 at 10 a.m. at Benedict’s Plantation, 1144 N. Causeway Blvd., in Mandeville. Newcomers and longtime residents of the area welcome. Learn about the club’s ongoing groups, including Card Cut-Ups, Day Trippers, Snack & Snoop, Sipping & Socializing; sign up to go hiking or play mah jongg, bunco, Mexican train dominoes or canasta. A reservation is required; $20 for members and guests. Call Georgia DiFranco at (504) 228-3101 for details.

SAVE THE DATE

BLUE, BLUE: The sixth annual Bluesberry Music + Art Festival takes place in Covington’s Bogue Falaya Park on Oct. 4 from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. with local, regional and national music, plus lots of art, food and a special Children’s Village. General admission is $25 online, $30 at the gate, and free for children ages 10 and under. Festival parking available, with transport to and from

PROVIDED PHOTO BY DEREK FOUNTAIN

Songwriter-pianist Serabee

Lily Monchgesang as Dorothy

Penny as Toto

With scrimmages in the books, it’s football jamboree week

The 2025 high school football regular season is still a week away, but this issue of the St. Tammany Farmer has more football content than you can shake a stick at.

First and aftermost in this issue, you’ll see our annual 52-page football preview section That’s right — 52 pages of team previews, projected starters, district predictions and much more. This year’s cover story is a special look back at the 1976 Covington state championship team as the school celebrates 100 years of football.

I would be remiss if I didn’t take a moment to thank all the coaches and players for taking the time to sit down to be interviewed and fill out surveys to make this preview edition possible. They made it as smooth as possible for me to gather this information and tell their stories as they prepare for another high school season. I truly appreciate your availability more than you know

Last week marked the beginning of the high school preseason. There were 10 scrimmages involving St. Tammany teams. You’ll find stories from six of those games in this edition. Below is a brief recap of each of the scrimmages that we are not able to attend.

Jamborees will kickoff this week, and Week 1 is just around the corner Riverdale at Salmen: Coming into the season, Salmen coach Eric Chuter thought the Spartans might be explosive on offense, and one could see why he felt that way after the scrimmage on Aug. 20. Receivers Terrance Mitchell and Kashius Sampson made several long catches, while junior Kordé Harris scored on an 80-yard TD run. “I thought our quarterback looked electric with the ball and distributing the ball. He made some good decisions. The offensive line did a good job protecting him and blocking for the run. Our defensive ends played well. We got in some good work,” Chuter said. “We’re explosive on offense, and the thing that I’m happy about right now is that it is all coming together Our quarterback played really well for his first time out. He made some mistakes, but it’s all stuff that is fixable ” Chuter added that his linebackers, who are all first-time starters, came up with several big plays. Parkview Baptist at Lakeshore: The Titans scored eight touchdowns in the controlled portion of the scrimmage and added three more scores during live action for a 21-0 victory on Aug. 21 During the live portion, the Titans outgained Parkview 261 to 41 yards. Senior Shawn Brown racked up 80 yards rushing, including an 8-yard TD run.

Quarterback competition heats up at Covington

BY JOSEPH HALM Staff writer

For two-and-a-half hours, Covington and Brother Martin took to the turf at Jack Salter Stadium with a purpose.

Whether it was controlled drills from the 30-yard line or a live quarter that included two offensive possessions per team, football was back.

“I learned a lot about our team tonight,” Covington coach Greg Salter said. “I thought we had a lot of explosive plays on both sides of the ball, so I was happy with what I saw.”

The Lions are in the midst of a quarterback battle between junior Matthew Fussell and senior Andrew Reynolds. Salter said the deciding factor in the competition will be which one plays with the most consistency

“Both of those guys bring different things to the table,” Salter said. “We have a lot of weapons on the offensive side of the ball. Whoever can play with

Mandeville-Jesuit scrimmage

BY MIKE GEGENHEIMER

Contributing writer

Jax O’Quin hasn’t forgotten how last season ended. Watching Mandeville get upset 20-9 by West Monroe at home in the second round of the playoffs was devastating for the now-senior running back To come so close but fall short at the end is something he won’t soon forget. Mandeville’s scrimmage against Jesuit on Aug. 22 gave O’Quin hope for another exciting chapter of Skippers’ football. Though Mandeville lost at home to the Blue Jays, 12-7, being on the field again and facing a talented team had O’Quin ready to get the 2025 regular season underway

“We’ve been ready since last year when we lost to West Monroe,” O’Quin said. “We’ve been

ready the whole summer This is the reason we’ve worked. This is the first time we’ve seen another team in nine months, and it’s a scrimmage; it’s not going to go on the record. Next week (at the jamboree) won’t be on the record, but that has to be the mindset. We’re ready to play the whole time.”

Even in a game that doesn’t officially count, Mandeville got a small taste of the high-stakes football they expect to play later in the year Down 12-7 with less than 2:00 remaining, the Skippers marched down the field to come within an arm’s length of stealing a victory. O’Quin, who ran for 56 yards on 13 carries, was tackled at the 5-yard line as time expired on the potential winning drive. The final play came after O’Quin actually

the most consistency and put the ball in the hands of our playmakers will win the job. We will make a decision by Week 1, but right now, I want them to feel the pressure of competing every day for the job.”

Both QBs had highlights on a day when senior receiver and Texas State commitment Jiwaun Brock sat out while recovering from a foot injury He is expected to be ready for Week 1. Reynolds connected with sophomore Chance Marchand for a 30-yard overthe-shoulder TD catch during controlled play He also hit Devonta Chatman for a 30-yard scoring catch.

Fussell hit Braeshun Weary in stride for a 30-yard TD during the same session. That duo connected again for a 43-yard TD catch and run, and Weary added a kickoff return for a TD. Senior Amari Smith finished with three catches for 60 yards.

“I thought the offensive line really held up well, and that was a unit that

had some inexperience,” Salter said. “I thought our quarterbacks had all the time they needed to throw There were a couple of busts, but for the most part, they did what they needed to do. There are still things that we need to get better at, but today was a step forward.” Defensively, senior Termarkus Scott picked off two passes during controlled drills. Junior Cameron Johnson also had an interception.

Brother Martin coach Mark Bonis said the Crusaders achieved their goal of starting to establish depth.

“We played a boatload of guys, and that was the goal We wanted to be crisp with our 1s, and they played sparingly But when they were in besides maybe one series, I was happy with their effort,” Bonis said.

“For the first three or four weeks leading up to district, the goal is to establish depth, and I think we took a step

Senior focus: Labat returns as Slidell looks to defend state title

BY JOSEPH HALM Staff writer

“As soon as Coach Tullis came here, I knew we had a chance to win a state title. I started as a freshman, and I played for him in club that same year I know what he expects, so he really doesn’t have to teach as much. I can help the girls on the team know what to expect.”

AVA LABAT, Slidell senior setter

Slidell setter Ava Labat knows that defending the Division I state title will not be easy But the senior seems unbothered by the task ahead as the reigning Louisiana MaxPreps Player of the Year is back after helping lead the Tigers to their first volleyball state championship since 1997. “I think that it’s special, but it also puts a target on our backs,” said Labat about defending the title. “I think it is good pressure because it makes you want to show everybody what you’re supposed to be and prove to them that you’re the best.” The 5-foot-8 Labat is certainly one of the best setters in the state. Last season, she recorded 1,302 assists (12.5 per set and second in the state) and dished out 42 in the four-set win over four-time defending state champion Dominican in the title match. She also had 278 digs, 84 kills and 26 aces last season. Slidell coach Danny Tullis has actually known Labat for years since her older sister played for him at Pope John Paul II. “I push her harder than I would if I

didn’t know her so well,” Tullis said. “Coming into this season with one of the best setters back from last year, that’s always a plus because she has to touch the ball every time. That’s super important.”

Tullis credited Labat for growing her intellectual understanding of the sport throughout her high school career “As soon as Coach Tullis came here, I knew we had a chance to win a state title,” Labat said. “I started as a freshman, and I played for him in club that same year I know what he expects, so he really doesn’t have to teach as much. I can help the girls on the team know what to expect.” Labat said she has been around the sport her whole life since her sister played, and she said setting has always been her focus.

See LABAT, page 3B

PHOTOS BY BOBBY GILBOY

Covington junior Matthew Fussell looks downfield during a scrimmage against Brother Martin on Aug. 20.

Covington senior quarterback Andrew Reynolds looks for some running room.

Mandeville’s Jax O’Quin makes a sliding catch against Jesuit on Aug. 22.

PHOTO BY JOE TROMBATORE

STAFF PHOTO BY JOSEPH HALM

Slidell senior setter Ava Labat returns for the defending Division I state champions.

Joseph Halm

ä See HALM, page 3B

See COVINGTON, page 2B

St. Paul’s-Curtis scrimmage shows promise for both teams

BY MIKE PERVEL

Contributing writer

St. Paul’s coach Ken Sears is no stranger to the process of building a successful football team

The Wolves took a significant step towards finding out what the 2025 team will look like during a spirited scrimmage against John Curtis at Hunter Stadium on Aug. 20.

“We have a high standard of execution, and it’s all about playing with consistency,” Sears said. “We’ll take a look at the film and concentrate on making the necessary corrections. The team effort was there, so we’ll learn from our mistakes.”

The scrimmage format featured various rounds, opening with St. Paul’s first-team offense squaring off with Curtis’ first-team defense, and ending with a 12-minute live quarter

St. Paul’s starting junior QB Brady Pierson, who replaces Wolves’ all-time career passing leader Brennan Keim, handled himself well, completing 11 of 20 pass attempts for 102 yards.

“The speed of the game is really quick, so you have to make fast decisions with the ball,” Pierson said. “I felt our run game was there with Cody (Corales) and Troy (Willis) running hard. I thought the O-line did a good job in protection. I feel we did some good things offensively that we can build on.”

St. Paul’s offensive coordinator, Kenny Sears III, said his young quarterback performed well against a tough opponent

“I was proud of Brady’s effort and how he ran the show He did a good job while being pressured. We did some good things, but we still have a long way to go. We obviously have to clean up some things, but I liked his composure, using his feet to avoid the rush and trying to keep plays alive,” Kenny Sears said.

Senior running back Cody Corales looked to be in midseason form, rushing 15 times for 68 yards and a TD. He also caught

three passes for 52 yards.

“John Curtis is a very good team, and they can make it tough,” Corales said. “Mentally, I just wanted to make sure I finished my runs, and the line did a good job opening some holes. I wanted to run with physicality We have a good offense with some weapons.”

St. Paul’s first-team offense gained a total of 215 yards, 113 yards rushing on 32 attempts and 102 yards through the air Senior Troy Willis chipped in 33 yards on 11 carries with a score, while senior Brennan Villa had four receptions. Defensively, Wolves’ senior lineman Gage Brown (6-2, 270) had several early tackles, including two tackles for a loss.

John Curtis played its best ball in the 12-minute live quarter, dominating the Wolves on both sides of the ball. After St. Paul’s opened the quarter with a 3-and-out, Patriots’

Northshore-Hannan game provides teaching moments

BY DAVE WOODALL

Contributing writer

On the road to the regular season, scrimmages signify the end of summer camp, with Week 1 just around the corner Northshore and Hannan took that step together as the teams battled in a scrimmage at Northshore on Aug. 20.

The results were mixed as both teams made plays during the controlled part of the scrimmage before a live quarter

The Hawks scored their lone touchdown during live action when junior Chase Romero scooped up a fumble and returned it 35 yards for the first score of the live period. Freshman Dylan Robles booted the extra point for a 7-0 lead.

The Panthers responded with a four-play scoring drive that was highlighted by a 32-yard pass from junior quarterback JJ Gonzales to senior Tyson Burns. Senior running back Ramon Williams did the rest, scoring on a 10-yard run. Junior kicker William Lachney added the extra point as the live quarter ended in a 7-7 tie. While Northshore coach Bobby Sanders was pleased with his team’s performance, he said there is much more work to do.

“It was a typical fall scrimmage,” said Sanders. “We will find out a lot more next week when we go up against Jesuit. I was pleased for the most part with our offense. Defensively, we gave up a couple of big plays, but we will fix that. I expect that both sides of the ball will improve before we open our season.” Gonzales added 35 yards on

four carries during the live quarter Williams carried the load on the ground, rushing for 32 yards on five carries and a score.

“We tried a lot of new plays,” said Williams. “Some worked and some didn’t, so we will need to work on the ones that weren’t successful. We will have to work hard to get ready for Picayune and John Curtis to open the regular season.”

For Hannan, first-year quarterback Braden Sprang went 3 for 7 passing for 34 yards. Hunter Lay caught two passes for 20 yards while Graesyn Broussard had the other reception.

“I thought we came out and executed our offense,” said Sprang.

“We had a couple of big plays that were called back, and our defense had a big-time touchdown. I thought we looked good as a team tonight, and I’m excited to keep rolling. I thought I could have made some better reads, but that usually happens in these types of scrimmages. Overall, I think we looked pretty good.” Hannan coach Steve Soper said the scrimmage was a good experience as the Hawks will host Country Day in a jamboree on Aug. 29.

“There were good things mixed in with a lot of bad things,” said Soper “I think this scrimmage was good for the kids to face a quality opponent. There’s a lot of stuff to clean up and work on.

We’ve got a few things to clean up on offense, like ball security stuff, but I thought we adjusted well to a defense that we hadn’t seen before, so it’s just a matter of fine-tuning some things and putting more good plays in between the bad ones.”

senior running back Jacobi Boudreaux ignited the Curtis offense,

scoring a 12-yard run for a 7-0 lead.

“After having some pretty good

early success, things didn’t go so well for us in the 12-minute timed quarter,” Ken Sears said. “We fell apart on both sides of the ball in the final timed quarter We have lots to clean up, and we’ll get back to work, figuring out what we have to correct.”

The Wolves also failed to generate much offense on their next series, resulting in another punt. The Patriots capitalized. Following an incomplete pass, Boufreaux took a handoff and scampered 75 yards right up the gut for another TD. Patriots’ coach JT Curtis said the scrimmage was a good test for both teams.

“It was a tough, physical afternoon, just what you would expect from two talented football teams. I liked the physicality that our guys played with. We can get better, and these types of scrimmages help your team to improve,” JT Curtis said.

“London (Padgett), our young sophomore quarterback, did a good job, and I like what our running backs were able to do. We have good depth in our backfield, so it will probably be running back by committee.”

MANDEVILLE

Continued from page 1B

scored the game-winning touchdown a few moments earlier, only to have a holding penalty negate the go-ahead score.

It was those kinds of mistakes that Mandeville coach Craig Jones hopes to iron out before the season-opener against Salmen on Sept. 5.

“We have a long way to go,” Jones said. “That’s exactly what we just talked about If we don’t fix the simple mistakes, we’ll never get to the point where we can compete at a high level. We have a lot of work to do.”

Defensively, the Skippers did well to stifle much of the Jesuit offense. Chance Grant came up with a pair of sacks while Dylan Gali made one of the plays of the game with an interception in the end zone to end Jesuit’s first drive. But it was the big chunk plays that ultimately spoiled Mandeville’s night. The Skippers gave up touchdowns of 59 and about 80 yards on long pass plays that slipped through the secondary

“It was nice finally being out there,” Gali said. “We’ve been working all offseason going through our schemes, so it was nice to go out there and put it to work against another team. We still messed up on a few things, but we’re gonna clean it up.”

But the literal bright spot of the evening was the debut of the newly installed scoreboard in Mandeville’s south end zone, which the school believes is the

forward tonight We want to get better from week to week and rely on that depth later in the season.” Junior receiver Easton Royal had a productive night that included three TD catches and a kickoff returned for a score. Senior athlete Jack Melancon also had two scoring runs, while sophomore Luca Ascani scored on a 2-yard run.

biggest in the state among high school programs.

“It’s really big for the community,” Jones said. “The community, with our Boosters Club, really helped get this thing. It’s all self-funded. We were able to do it for the kids and promote them on the board and do the special stuff within the community It’s good for the program.”

O’Quin echoed his coach in his excitement at the new addition for his senior season.

“People want to give back to Mandeville,” O’Quin said. “It’s a great city, a great program and a great team. It’s nice to look around at all the great things we have. We’re blessed.

St. Paul’s quarterback Brady Pierson completed 11 of 20 pass attempts for 102 yards against Curtis.

St. Paul’s running back Troy Willis looks for some running room.

PHOTOS BY JOEY MICHEL

St. Paul’s senior Cody Corales runs for some tough yards during a scrimmage against Curtis on Aug. 20.

PHOTO BY MATT DOBBINS

Northshore sophomore William Lachney kicks off the Panthers’ scrimmage against Hannan.

PHOTOS BY JOE TROMBATORE Mandeville’s Jake Jacketti looks for some running room after making a reception against Jesuit on Aug. 22.

Mandeville’s Ben Hendricks calls for the snap.

Covington’s Derrick Dunbar, right, records a sack of Brother Martin’s Hudson Fields during a scrimmage on Aug. 20.

PHOTO BY BOBBY GILBOY

Oudrey Gros had scoring runs of 16 and 33 yards Junior quarterback Brody Loudermilk added 56 yards rushing and was 3 of 4 passing for 19 yards.

“We played well,” Lakeshore coach Brent Indest said. “I was glad we took care of the football. We didn’t give up explosive plays, and we had some of our own. That was important. We played good thirddown defense, and the most important thing is we came out healthy.”

Slidell at Walker: Tigers’ coach Damon Page said he was pleased with his team’s performance, especially since they held out six starters during a scrimmage on Aug. 21. “The maturity and the growth of the team have definitely been on display,” Page said. “There are fewer coaches talking and more players talking. They are coming to us with solutions, and they are holding themselves accountable. Everything is more constructive when we have to make corrections.”

Page credited junior quarterback Ricky Williams for his decision-making and accuracy as the Tigers had several explosive plays.

“The O-line was awesome,” Page said. “They were picking up the pressures pretty effectively The communication up front was good. We were moving the ball on the ground. We only had a handful of negative plays, and those things are fixable.”

Defensively, Page said the first-team unit only gave up two big gains, which both came on broken plays He credited defensive back Eric Morgan with a big night as the junior recorded a tackle for a loss, a PBU and an interception.

Albany at Pope John Paul II: Although the Jaguars didn’t find the end zone during the controlled scrimmage on Aug. 22, PJP II coach Philip Pigott was pleased with his team’s performance. “It was a good challenge, and most importantly, we came out healthy,” Pigott said. “There wasn’t a lot of fireworks offensively I felt like both defenses played well, but we also got into our offense a little more as the game wore on.” Pigott said one unit that stood out was the Jaguars’ pass defense, which came up with several pass breakups on 50-50 balls throughout the night. One area the fifth-year coach said the team needed to work on was ball security, as the Jaguars fumbled several times. Pigott added that his starters were able to play about a half of football, which was the goal, as the team revs up for the jamboree.

ST. TAMMANY JAMBOREE SCHEDULE

THURSDAY, AUG. 28

n Pearl River at Episcopal, 6 p.m.

FRIDAY, AUG. 29

n Rummel at St. Paul’s, 5:30 p.m.

n Northlake Christian at Pine

5:30 p.m.

n Fontainebleau at Baker, 6 p.m.

n Country Day at Hannan, 7 p.m.

n Franklinton at Mandeville, 7 p.m.

n Lakeshore at Slidell, 7 p.m.

n Covington at Salmen,

7:30 p.m.

n Jesuit at Northshore, 7:30 p.m.

n Patrick Taylor at Pope John Paul II, 8 p.m.

Contact Joseph Halm at jhalm@sttammanyfarmer net.

LABAT

Continued from page 1B

“I feel like I have always set,” Labat said. “Sometimes I played right side growing up, but I just always set. I like that I can run everything and control what is going to happen. I’m always telling people where to hit, so I love playing a big role in the offense.” This offseason, Labat said she

Pearl River focuses on the little things

BY JASON RUSSELL Contributing writer

After a 5-5 season and a firstround playoff loss in 2024, the Pearl River football team wants to take the next step this year

With new head coach Jerry Leonard at the helm, the Rebels started their journey on Aug. 21 with a home scrimmage against Belle Chasse.

Learning experiences were plentiful as the Cardinals won the controlled portion of the scrimmage 13-0, while also taking the timed, live portion 12-0.

“I learned today that we have to finish,” Leonard said. “We were in the right places so many times on defense and offense where we had things locked up and just didn’t finish.

“Those little things pay big dividends, and they paid off big for Belle Chasse because they did finish. Those are the things we have to go back and fix, and we have to be able to simulate those things in practice.”

The first 90 minutes of the contest saw each team get a set number of plays on both offense and defense, with some junior varsity action mixed in. Belle Chasse used its veer-option attack to keep the Rebels’ defense off balance, mixing in just a few passes.

Both touchdowns in the controlled part of the scrimmage came on runs – one from two yards away and one from 14 yards. Both drives were highlighted by long Cardinal runs to set up the scores.

The final 20 minutes saw the teams simulate live action with a 20-minute running clock. Belle Chasse scored on its first possession, getting a 1-yard quarterback run for a TD as well as a 60-yard scoring run.

While the mistakes were prevalent, Leonard was happy to point out several players who will be key to the team’s success this upcoming season.

“On offense, someone that comes to mind is (receiver) Kaysen McGinnis,” Leonard said. “We didn’t get the ball to him like we should have when we had the opportunity to.

“Defensively, I’m looking at two guys who could help solidify our defense on the back end, and that’s

(sophomores) Dawson Dreux and Ryan Dean. Those guys need to play big for us. They’re young guys, but they have so much upside and they

are getting better every week.” Highlights for Pearl River saw running back Gage Durand break off a few nice runs, while quarter-

back Brayden Hutchison ran the ball well. On the defensive side, Dakota Johnson and Charlie Rickoll came up with several well-timed tackles.

Pearl River travels to the St. Michael’s jamboree next week and will not return to Rebel Stadium until Week 4.

“We are going to be road-tested and battle-tested because of that tough road schedule those first three weeks,” he said. “It’s something I’m looking forward to, but I’m also looking at how we are going to respond to this, because if we don’t, we will suffer from it.” Leonard, who returned to the sidelines after a seven-year coaching hiatus, said he is excited to see where his team is headed.

“Even though things didn’t go well tonight, I’m enjoying coaching and having a great time,” he said. “I enjoy coaching kids and helping them progress through football.”

Explosive plays, interceptions highlight

BY MIKE PERVEL

Contributing writer

Fontainebleau’s scrimmage against Dutchtown on Aug. 21 had a little bit of everything.

Both squads delivered some explosive offensive plays — like sophomore Landon Suhre’s 33-yard catch and run up the sideline during the controlled portion of the scrimmage.

The highlight of the night came from Bulldogs senior safety Semaj Whittine, who made a leaping, onehanded interception on the sideline during the live quarter of action.

Fontainebleau coach John Kavanaugh said his team’s effort against a perennial playoff team was encouraging

focused on improving her defense since the Tigers graduated several key players on the backline.

“Last year, she would be in a spot and not react,” Tullis said. “This year, she’s getting into a spot and reacting and moving to the ball. Her blocking has always been a strength too, even though she

not

That shows her athletic ability She’s just a really solid player.” The Tigers have several experienced seniors returning from

“I’m pleased with the upward trajectory and the continued improvement our guys are showing. They’re definitely putting in the effort, and I’m optimistic about this season, if we can stay healthy,” Kavanaugh said.

Fontainebleau junior quarterback Logan Astugue (5-8, 155) made his first start and performed well, finishing 5 of 10 passing for 89 yards and the TD pass to Suhre. Astugue also connected with sophomore Sawyer Shane for several first downs.

“We wanted to set an early tone offensively,” Astugue said “We had a limited play calling sheet, but I think we did well, moving the ball against a tough defense. We have two really good backs in sopho-

last year, including middle Ava Barduca, right side hitter Addyson Dowell, middle hitter Cailyn Bergeron and defensive specialist Ella Spilling. Payton Rowbatham and Lillian Simpson will be key defensive players on the backline.

“We know that we’re going to get everyone’s best shot,” Barduca said. “We just have to remember where we came from and play together Everyone has each other’s backs, and I think that will

mores Sheldon Asmore (8 carries, 40 yards) and Landon Suhre. They were able to pound the ball behind some good blocking from our Oline.”

During the live quarter Dutchtown scored the lone touchdown.

After a 3-and-out, the Griffins marched 70 yards in 10 plays, capped by junior Hayden Becnel’s 3-yard TD run.

The Bulldogs’ defense was opportunistic throughout as senior outside linebacker Travis Green (5-11, 180) had two interceptions.

During the live quarter, Green had a key late interception to give the home team one last chance to score.

“We needed to get the ball back, and on my second interception, I credit our defensive ends for pres-

be important. We know we have to pass the ball and put it down every time.” Labat has also embraced an enhanced leadership role on the team.

“It’s important for me to stay positive and vocal, so I can lift up my teammates,” she said. “For me, if I’m extra loud and positive, it helps me stay focused and make the right decisions.” With Labat back, the Tigers’ offense should be fast-paced, but

suring the quarterback and making him hurry his throw I read the receiver and was able to break on the ball, making the play,” Green said.

“We can be tough defensively, but we need to communicate better, getting in the right position before the snap. We need to get more aggressive and play scrappier defense.”

Dutchtown coach Guy Mistretta said it was a productive scrimmage.

“The guys on both sides got after it,” he said. “We started slow but were able to finally pick it up. We can’t afford to start slow and just hope we can pick it up at any time. The key is to get some of the younger guys experience and continue to improve.”

Tullis knows that defending a state title is always a challenge.

“We’ve got a lot of pieces, so we just have to have them playing well at the right time,” he said.

“This team hasn’t won anything. We’re

up and do what has to be done to win it again.”

PHOTOS BY MATT DOBBINS

Pearl River quarterback Brayden Hutchison is dragged down from behind by a Belle Chasse defender on Aug. 21.

Pearl River coach Jerry Leonard yells out instructions to his players.

Pearl River’s Randall Bannister celebrates an interception with teammate Ja’ty Maryland.

Pearl River senior Gage Durand breaks a tackle for a nice gain against Belle Chasse.

Sealed Bids will be

by the St Tammany Parish School Board, 321 N.Theard Street Covington,Louisiana 70433, until2:00p.m. Monday, September 8,2025, on Chromebook RepairPartsand Miscellaneous SuppliesforI.T.

Additional informa‐tion and specifica

The

PUBLICNOTICE

BID SOLICITATION

Sealed Bids will be received by the St Tammany Parish School Board 321 N.Theard Street Covington,Louisiana 70433, until2:00p.m., Monday, September8,2025 on VapeSensors, ProtectionGuards andManagement

Each proposal shall besealedinanenve‐lope clearly marked ontheoutside, "BID # 1887 VAPE SENSORS PRO‐TECTION GUARDS AND MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE SEPTEMBER 8,2025"

The St Tammany ParishSchoolBoard reserves the right to rejectallbidswhen it is deemed that such action is in the best interest of the SchoolBoard TAMMANY SHSCHOOL ARD

154416A $62.76

ParishSchoolBoard reserves the right to rejectallbidswhen it is deemed that such action is in the

Sealed bids will be received until the hourof11:00A M , localtime, Wednesday, September17, 2025,intheofficeof the Purchasing Agent, City Hall, Mandeville, Louisiana, 3101 East Causeway Ap‐proach, Mandeville, LA 70448; for fur‐nishing all labor,

returnedunopened

The work of this contract consists of removal and lawful disposaloftheexist‐ing fishing pier in‐clusive

by the FEMAPublicAssis‐tance program Refer to the Con‐tract Documents as amended for the federal contract clauses and provi‐ sions applicable to this contract be‐tween the City and thecontractor ANONmandatory pre-bid conference will be heldThursday,Au‐t 28 2025 t this contract be‐tween the City and thecontractor ANONmandatory pre-bid conference will be heldThursday,Au‐gust 28, 2025, at 10:00 A M , at Mandeville’s De‐partment of Public Works, 1100 Man‐deville High Blvd Mandeville, LA 70471; (985-6243169)

Drawings and Spec‐ ifications are open for inspection at the Mandeville Depart‐ment of Public Works Director s Office 1100 Man‐deville High Blvd Mandeville LA 70471; (985-624-

PUBLICNOTICE

BUDGET HEARING MINUTES FORTHECITY

COUNCIL MEETINGOF AUGUST11,2025

The budget hearing meeting of the Man‐deville City Council was called to order at 6:00pm followed by a moment of si‐lence and the Pledge ofAllegiance.

ROLL CALL- pre‐sent: Cynthia Strong-Thompson, Kevin Vogeltanz, Jill Lane, Scott Dis‐con, Jason Zucker‐man Absent:0 Also present: Clay Madden, Mayor; Jessica Farno, Fi‐nance Director; Cara Bartholomew, PlanningandDevel‐opment Director; Keith LaGrange PublicWorks Direc‐tor; Buster Lyons DigitalEngineering PUBLIC COM‐

MENT: Julianne Menn, 509 Girod, cited a need for a fi‐nancial oversight committee, she re‐quested Council delay their vote and that they consider why they ran for of‐fice. Tracy Elsensohn, 1379 Valmont St, expressed concern over Mandeville s debt, she stated there is spending on 3 new parks that are not needed Becky Rohrbough, 2525 Lakeshore Dr, said the CLURO revi‐sions are needed but the COLA could be cut, and was sad to be in this financial state. Wren Clark, Carroll St sug‐ gested charging for parking to raise money Jeanine Es‐qinance, 2131 Clai‐borne St, questioned the maintenance on the Harbor and someotherthings NEWBUSINESS: 1. Discussion of the FY 2025-2026 Bud‐get- Ms. Farno began the discus‐sion with a detailed statement outlining her obligations as Finance Director, then stated the fund balance is over 3.7 times the GFOA recommended mini‐mum. Council ex‐pressed their opin‐ ions and concerns aboutthebudget,in‐cluding: Council‐man Discon be‐lieved cuts should be made, the Amer‐ica St Park be de‐funded, and that Council should not be line-item elimi‐nating things but Administration should make more cuts Council‐woman StrongThompson dis‐cussed viewing the windows at Jeffer‐son St and improv‐ing the rate of return on investment in‐come Councilman Vogeltanz pointed outtheCityhadzero debt reminded peo‐ ple of the restricted fund, and because some citizens re‐quested there be cuts made- he pro‐ posed eliminating: Clerk II, City Clerk (Exhibit C) $92,172, 110.26.001 3 MPD Vehicles $255,000, 110.26.005 Win‐dows at 1923 Jeffer‐son $150,000, 10100.435 CLURO Update $150,000, 100.25.001a Amer‐ica St Park $1,100,000, and

Councilwoman Lane discussed how the salary and bene‐fits got where they are, that the budget is good for this year but future cuts would be necessary, and advised against acting in haste. Councilman Zuck‐erman agreed with the City’s financial strength analysis, restated the re‐stricted fund issue not being an income problem but that it would need to be re‐allocated in order to be used and that the budget being pro‐ posed already re‐flected cuts and was not a deficit budget. He stated it is the Council’s responsi‐bility to appropriate (make modifica‐tions to) the Mayor’s proposed budget. Also, by cutting projects you increase the cost of deferred mainte‐nance. Councilman Zuckerman ended by commenting that a projected 4.5% growth in expenses and projected 2.5% growth in income will eventually cause the City to run out of money. But that the FY26 bud‐get does not require cutsatthistime

ADJOURNMENTMotion to adjourn at 7:22pm by Council‐woman StrongThompson, sec‐onded by Council‐man Vogeltanz and approvedbyall. 154766AU27-1T $94.42

PUBLICNOTICE BUDGET HEARING MINUTES FORTHECITY COUNCIL MEETINGOF AUGUST5,2025

The budget hearing meeting of the Man‐deville City Council was called to order at 6:00pm followed by a moment of si‐lence and the Pledge ofAllegiance. ROLL CALL- pre‐sent: Cynthia Strong-Thompson, Kevin Vogeltanz, Jill Lane, Scott Dis‐con, Jason Zucker‐man Absent:0 Also present: Clay Madden, Mayor; Jessica Farno, Fi‐nance Director; Keith LaGrange, PublicWorks Direc‐tor; Buster Lyons, DigitalEngineering PUBLIC COM‐MENT: Rebecca Rohrbough, 2525 Lakeshore Dr ob‐jected to there being any Capital Outlay projects, except for the Police station, using the General Fund since it was depleted

NEWBUSINESS: 1. Discussion of the FY 2025-2026 Bud‐get- Each Council person voiced their concerns about the budget, the re‐stricted funds and cutting projects.Councilman Vo‐geltanz proposed cutting line items: 110.26.005 Window Replacement at 1923 Jefferson St $150,000.000 and 110.26.001 Vehicles $255,000.00 in Po‐lice. No other line item cuts or amend‐ments were sug‐ gested

ADJOURNMENTMotionedtoadjourn at 7:13 pm by Coun‐cilwoman StrongThompson, sec‐onded by Council‐man Vogeltanz and approvedbyall. 154765AU27-1T $38.60

PUBLICNOTICE BUDGET HEAR‐INGMINUTES FORTHECITY COUNCIL MEETINGOF JULY15,2025

The budget hearing meeting of the Man‐deville City Council was called to order at 6:00pm, followed by a moment of si‐lence and the Pledge ofAllegiance.

ROLL CALL- pre‐sent: Cynthia Strong-Thompson, Kevin Vogeltanz, Jill Lane, Scott Dis‐con, Jason Zucker‐man Absent:0 Also present: Clay Madden, Mayor; Jessica Farno, Fi‐nanceDirector; NEWBUSINESS: 1. Discussion of the FY 2025-2026 Bud‐get- Mayor Madden reported there were no new projects, they had decreased the number of new Police cars in this next budget and they would be watching Police overtimeclosely He suggested forming a committee to dis‐cuss re-allocation of taxes, salaries and employee benefits for the future. Ms. Farno went over the Operating budget summary report with the Council, stopping for ques‐ tions Discussion in‐cluded revenues from different tax sources and grants andexpendituresfor salaries benefits and other expenses They also discussed a5yearforecastMs. Farno furnished be‐fore the meeting. It was decided they would start dis‐cussing line items at thenextmeeting.

PUBLIC COM‐MENT: Rebecca Rohrbough, 2525 LakeshoreDr,stated shereallylikedthe5 year forecast nut would like to see a construction in progress report. She also said the unre‐stricted funds need a priority budget, starting with hurri‐canefunds

ADJOURNMENTMotion to adjourn at 7:59pm by Council‐woman Lane, sec‐onded by Council‐woman StrongThompson and ap‐ provedbyall. 154762AU27-1T $45.82

PUBLICNOTICE BUDGET HEAR‐ING MINUTES FORTHECITY COUNCIL MEETINGOF JULY21,2025

The budget hearing meeting of the Man‐deville City Council was called to order at 6:00pm follo d by a moment of lence and the Pled ofAllegiance. ROLL CALL- p sent: Cyn Strong-Thompso Kevin Vogelta Jill Lane Scott con, Jason Zuck man Absent:0 Also present: Cl Madden, Ma Jessica Farno, nance Direc Keith LaGran PublicWorks Di tor PUBLIC CO MENT:None NEWBUSINESS: 1. Discussion of FY 2025-2026 Bu get- Council Vogeltanz recei an e-mail from a izen about the b get, stating the curringexpense about 1.6m mo than the recur revenue He as how the budget ated Th Ma

an e-mail from a cit‐izen about the bud‐get, stating the re‐curringexpensesare about 1.6m more than the recurring revenue He asked how the budget was created The Mayor stated he meets with all the department heads in March/ April and gets their “wishlists”.Hethen gets with Finance to input those amounts, along with line item projec‐ tions into the soft‐ware to create the initial draft of the budget. Ms.Farnowentover the Operating bud‐get by line item, dis‐cussing the FY25 to FY26 % changes that stood out and answering any Councilquestions

ADJOURNMENTMotion to adjourn at 8:12pm by Council‐man Vogeltanz, sec‐onded by Council‐woman StrongThompson and ap‐ provedbyall.

154763AU27-1T $39.56

PUBLICNOTICE

CITY OF COV‐INGTON BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT HAS SCHED‐ULED A MEET‐ING FOR MON‐DAY, SEPTEM‐BER 15, 2025, AT 6:00 PM AT THE COVINGTON CITY COUNCIL

CHAMBERS LO‐CATED AT 222 EAST KIRKLAND STREET, COV‐INGTON, LOUISIANA

BOARD OF AD‐JUSTMENT MEETING

1. 1. CASE NO. 2508-18 BOA (Tabled from August) Re‐questing variance from The Code of Ordinances City of Covington Ap‐pendiix B, Part 4general Provisions –Section 4.5 – Sup‐plemental Lot Yard 6(c) to allow an at‐tached carport to be placed within the side yard less than three (3) feet from the side lot line. The property is identi‐fied as Lot 8,Square 2305, New Coving‐ton- having the mu‐nicipal address of 515 W 24thAvenue, Covington,LA Petitioner: William Treadway Owner: William Treadway

2. CASE NO. 2509-21 BOA A vari‐ance request from the Codes of Ordi‐nances City of Cov‐ington, LA Chapter 18 - Buildings and Building Regula‐tions-ArticleIV-Fill Regulations- Sec. 18-152. - Fill place‐ment requirements for all zoning dis‐tricts and flood zones, Sec. 18-153. - Criteria for fill placement for all zoning districts and floodzonesandSec. 18-154. Flood zones A,A-1-A-30andAE and 18-156 to allow for a bulkhead greater than 32 inches in height ab th te

them to eagee@ covla.com or mail them to the City of Covington Planning Department at P. O Box 778, Coving‐ton,LA70434. For more informa‐tion, or to review case material or to inquire about speak‐ing at the public hearing, please call the City of Coving‐ton Planning De‐partment at (985) 867-1214. Thanks for your interest in Covington’sfuture. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special as‐sistance, please con‐tact the ADA Coor‐dinator at (892-1811 ex 270) Covington City Hall describing the assistance that is necessary.

APPEALS: Any persons jointly or severally aggrieved by any decision by the Board ofAdjust‐ment of or any offi‐cer, department, board or bureau of the municipality may present to the District Court of the Parish or City in which the property affected is illegal in whole or in part specifying the grounds of the ille‐gality The petition shall be presented to the court within 30 days after the filing ofthedecisioninthe officeoftheBoard 155302AUG27SEP3 10-3T $259.18

PUBLICNOTICE

CITY OF COV‐INGTON PLAN‐NING COMMIS‐SION HAS SCHEDULED A MEETING FOR MONDAY SEP‐TEMBER 15, 2025, 6:30 PM AT THE CITY OF COVINGTON COUNCIL CHAM‐BERS LOCATED AT 222 KIRK‐LAND STREET COVINGTON, LOUISIANA.

Planning Commis‐sionMeeting

CASE NO. 25-05-9 ADMN SUB -An administrative sub‐division referred to the Planning Com‐mission by the Plan‐ning Departmentan application to subdivide existing Squares 48 & 49 into parcels A, B, and C of Second Conolly Addition, City of Covington, St Tammany Parish – Property is located at the corner of N ColumbiaStreetand W32ndAvenue Petitioners: Magee Group HoldingsLLC/Glenn Black‐welder Owners: Magee Group HoldingsLLC/Glenn Black‐welder

PROCESS & AP‐PEAL: The applica‐ tion (Case No 2505-09 Admn Sub) shall be presented to the City of Coving‐ton Planning Com‐mission for its re‐view and considera‐tion. Any person claiming to be ag‐ ie d by th de i

867-1214. Thanks for your interest in Covington’sfuture. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special as‐sistance, please con‐tact the ADA Coor‐dinatorat(985-8921811x270)Coving‐ton City Hall de‐scribing the assis‐tance that is neces‐sary 155149AU27SEP310-3T $181.21

PUBLICNOTICE CITY OF COV‐INGTON ZONING COMMISSION WILL CONDUCT A REGULAR MEETING ON MONDAY, SEP‐TEMBER 15, 2025, 6:30 PM AT THE CITY OF COVINGTON COUNCIL CHAM‐BERS LOCATED AT 222 KIRK‐LAND STREET, COVINGTON, LOUISIANA. Zoning Commis‐sionMeeting In accordance with the LA revised TITLE 33 — Mu‐nicipalities and Parishes RS 33:106 General powers and duties, the City of Covington’s Zon‐ing Commission will hold a Public Hearing for the fol‐lowing: 1. CASE No. 25-0706 ZC A request to rezone Lot 4a Square25,Connolly Addition, Coving‐tonandLot1Square 26 Connolly Addi‐tion, Covington, lo‐cated at the corner of Collins Blvd. and W 31st Avenue, from NeighborhoodCommercial (CN) to Regional Com‐mercial (CR) The Subjectpropertyhas municipal addresses of 105 and 109 W 31st Avenue Cov‐ington.

Petitioner: Le-Li, LLC/NoelMaestri Owner: Le-Li, LLC/NoelMaestri

Process and AP‐PEALS:TheZoningCommission will vote to recommend approval, denial, or to table this request The Zoning Com‐mission’s report to recommend ap‐ proval or denial will be sent to the Coun‐cil Clerk. The final approval or denial of the request will restinthevoteofthe City Council. Any action that has been approved by the planning or zoning commission may be denied approval by the city council with a simple majority of the entire legislative body Any action that has failed to re‐ceive the approval of the planning and zoning commission shall not be passed by the city council except by the affir‐mative vote of at least three-fifths of the entire legislative body In Louisiana, ap‐ peals from a city council decision lly foll th

case ma r or inquire about speak‐ing at the public hearing, please call the City of Coving‐ton Planning De‐partment at (985) 867-1214. Thanks for your interest in Covington’sfuture. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special as‐sistance, please con‐tact the ADA Coor‐dinatorat(985-8921811) Covington City Hall describing the assistance that is necessary. 155300AU27SEP310-3T $243.31

PUBLICNOTICE

Introduced July 22, 2025, by Council‐man DiSanti, sec‐onded by Council‐man Brownfield, (by request of Ad‐ministration)

ItemNo 25-073606

ORDINANCENO 4252

Anordinancerezon‐ing property located at 1570 Shortcut Highway from C1A Fremaux Av‐enue/Shortcut High‐way district to C-4 Highway Commer‐cial(CaseZ25-05)

WHEREAS, the Slidell City Council received a petition from Michael Saucier on behalf of M.M.F LLC to re‐zone property owned and located at Shortcut High‐way identified as Parcel B1, a 1.1 acre parcel located in Section 11, Town‐ship 9 South, Range 14 East, from C-1A Fremaux Av‐enue/Shortcut High‐way to C-4 High‐way Commercial; and WHEREAS, the property has been recommended by the Planning De‐partment and the Planning and Zon‐ing Commissions to be rezoned C-4 Highway Commer‐cial;and WHEREAS, this property was an‐nexed by Ordinance No 3699 in July 2013 and is subject to St Tammany ParishSalesTaxEn‐hancement Plan; and WHEREAS, the Slidell Director of Planning duly ad‐vertised and the Planning and Zon‐ing Commissions held a public hear‐ing on June 16, 2025, for Case Z2505;and WHEREAS, this property was an‐nexed into the City in 2013 and there is no requirement for concurrent approval by the St Tammany ParishCouncil;and NOW THERE‐FORE BE IT OR‐DAINED by the Slidell City Council that it does hereby rezone property owned and located at Shortcut High‐way identified as Parcel B1, a 1.1 acre parcel located in Section 11 Town‐9 South, Range East from C-1A maux Av‐ue/Shortcut High‐y to C-4 High‐yCommercial ADOPTED this h day of August, 2025. 154776AUG27-1T $76.98

BLICNOTICE NUTES ardof mmissioners Meeting gust15,2025 EN e meeting of the ard of Commis‐oners, St. Tam‐ny Parish Mos‐to Abat nt

ers, Tam‐many Parish Mos‐quito Abatement District, was called to order at 3:02 p.m by Chairperson Dr Vicki Traina-Dorge at the St. Tammany Parish MosquitoAbatement District 62436AirportRoad Slidell,LA Present was a quo‐rum, consisting of Dr Vicki TrainaDorge, Ms. Terri Lewis Stevens, and Mr Jake Groby,Commissioners. District employees present were Dr Kevin Caillouet, Executive Director; Calvin Smother‐man, Deputy Direc‐tor and Sarah Malasovich HRand Office Manager Guests present were Trey Paulsen of Bradley Murchison, who attended with‐out contract or fee schedule in place while the district awaits the response to their May 2025 request to the Louisiana State At‐torney General to engage independentcounsel. Commis‐sioners Glen Boyer and Kathryn Townsend joined shortly after the meeting com‐menced

PUBLIC COM‐MENT No other membersofthepub‐ licwerepresent.

OLDBUSINESS 1. St Tammany Parish Council TRAC – Drs. Traina-Dorge and Caillouet described a meeting that was held on Monday, August 4, between District Attorney Collin Sims and themselves Mr Sims represented that there were find‐ings to share, but upon arriving the District representa‐ tives were ques‐ tioned on policies and operations and decided to terminate the meeting as this was not the agenda reported for the meeting. Dr Cail‐louet then shared that a very extensive public records re‐quest was received by the District on Wednesday, August 13. Discussions en‐sued, acknowledg‐ing that amended resolutions to in‐clude special dis‐tricts were not passed when put be‐fore the Council, so the TRAC commit‐teedoesnothavethe authority to con‐tinue the investiga‐ tion of the District. Mr Paulsen com‐mented that the role of an attorney inves‐tigating his client is an inappropriate measurebutthatany member of the pub‐ lic does have the right to submit a public records re‐quest Mr Paulsen also stated that it ap‐pears that the Dis‐trict Attorney is in violationoftherules that mandate attor‐ney-client relations and privileges Mr Smotherman asked if there is any con‐cern that the Mr Sims is proceeding investigation with‐out evidence of wrongdoing, and Mr Paulsen stated that there is concern that Mr Sims is using the resources and power of his of‐fice to perform a po‐ litical function, comparing these ac‐tions to similar to utilizing publicly funded resources to undergo a political campaign. Discus‐sion ensued. Chair‐person TrainaDorge commented that the purpose of “TRAC” was to identifyfraud,waste and abuse, of which none has been sug‐ gested regarding the District. Further, the use of multiple Dis‐trict Attorney per

garding cease and desist activities. Mr Paulsen suggested that a disciplinary complaint against an attorney with the Louisiana State Bar Association might beabetterroad,stat‐ing that it appears to be apparent that thereisanethical

olation by repre‐ senting an organiza‐ tion while investi‐gating them in a forensic audit

pacity Mr Paulsen said an attorney would need to re‐cuse themselves and bring in a special in‐vestigator to avoid investigating their own client (the Dis‐trict) Commis‐sioner Stevens stated that the exist‐ing Home Rule Charter does in‐clude the rights to investigate special districts with justifi‐ cation by indication of wrong-doing, waste or fraud. Commissioner Boyer suggested fil‐ing a cease and de‐sist order and alert the ethics board if the TRAC or the Parish council

lic records request Mr Paulsen sug‐ gested that the

to the

should come from the Dis‐trict commissioners and/or leadership to truly highlight the ethical conflict. Commissioner Boyer asked the timeline of an

review; Mr Paulsen stated that he be‐lieved the District Attorney would be notified quickly and review would pro‐ ceed in a timely fashion. Commis‐sioner Stevens sug‐ gested writing a for‐mal cease and desist letter to the District Attorney in advance of the complaint to the Louisiana State Bar Association Ethics Board. Com‐missioner Stevens stated that Mr. Sims stated at the Home Rule Charter Meet‐ing that he is pro‐ ceeding with this forensic audit “be‐cause no one else has.” Mr Paulsen stated that the Reso‐lution to the Attor‐ney General was in fact a notification of requestofCeaseand Desist Commis‐sioner Boyer asked if the District has to respond to the Pub‐lic Records Request andifso,underwhat timeline; Dr. Cail‐louet suggested 4 weeks. Mr Paulsen reiterated that there is no requirement to respond to the inter‐rogatories without creating records. Mr Paulsen also suggested that the District approach the Parish Council to push back on the investigation. Com‐missioner Groby stated that histori‐cally there was a re‐quirement for a pre‐ ponderous evidence of wrongdoing, which does not stand herein Com‐missioner Groby suggested that a list of evidence be made to refer to in an in‐vestigation. At this time, it was deter‐mined to enter exec‐utive session under Louisiana RS 42:17(2) A motion to do so was submit‐ted by Commis‐sioner Groby sec‐onded by Commis‐sioner Boyer and passed unani‐

districts with justifi‐ cation by indication of wrong-doing,

CONTENTS

COVER STORY: 26

SCHEDULE: 4

EDITOR: Joseph Halm

DESIGN: Kay Gervais, Jay Martin

1. Covington QB Darryl Graham throws the game-winning TD to David Bode during the 1976 Class 4A state championship game.

2.The 1976 Covington Lions Class 4A State Champion football team

3. Covington coaches Jack Salter and Allie Smith watch the action during the 1976 season.

DISTRICT 6-5A

COVINGTON: 6

MANDEVILLE: 10

ST. PAUL’S: 12

PREDICTIONS: 15

4. 1976 Covington State Championship ticket 1 2 3 4

DISTRICT 7-5A

FONTAINEBLEAU: 16

NORTHSHORE: 18

SLIDELL: 22

SALMEN: 30

PREDICTIONS: 32

DISTRICT 7-4A

HANNAN: 34

LAKESHORE: 36

PEARL RIVER: 38

PREDICTIONS: 50

DISTRICT 9-2A

NORTHLAKE CHRISTIAN: 40

POPE JOHN PAUL II: 42

PREDICTIONS: 44

SUBSCRIPTIONS (985) 892-2323

SCHEDULE

NOTE: Games scheduled for Friday at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Dates, times and locations subject to change.

WEEK 1

ALL GAMES NONDISTRICT

Friday, Sept. 5

n Covington at Bogalusa

n Fontainebleau at Lakeshore

n Lutcher at Slidell

n Northlake Christian at Hannan

n Pearl River at St. Martin’s

n Pearl River Central (Miss.) at Pope John Paul II

n Picayune (Miss.) at Northshore

n Salmen at Mandeville

n St. Paul’s at Live Oak

WEEK 2

ALL GAMES NONDISTRICT

Thursday, Sept. 11

n Northlake Christian at Episcopal

Friday, Sept. 12

n Brother Martin at St. Paul’s

n Franklinton at Covington

n Hannan at Ascension Episcopal

n Lakeshore at Chalmette

n Livingston Academy at Slidell

n Madison High at Fontainebleau

n Mandeville at Madison Prep

n Northshore at John Curtis

n Pearl River at South Lafourche

n Pope John Paul II at Varnado

n Salmen at East Ascension

WEEK 3

ALL GAMES NONDISTRICT

Friday, Sept. 19

n Booker T. Washington at Covington

n Carver at Mandeville

n De La Salle at St. Paul’s

n Hannan at Catholic-PC

n Northshore at Lakeshore

n Peabody at Fontainebleau

n Pope John Paul II at Riverdale

n Salmen at Bogalusa

n Slidell at Warren Easton

WEEK 4

ALL GAMES NONDISTRICT

Thursday, Sept. 25

n Franklinton at Fontainebleau

Friday, Sept. 26

n Ben Franklin at Pope John Paul II

n Covenant Christian at Hannan

n Covington at Northshore

n Kennedy at St. Paul’s

n Lakeshore at Northlake Christian

n Liberty at Salmen

n Mandeville at Slidell

n Pine at Pearl River

WEEK 5 (PARISH FAIR WEEK)

All games nondistrict

Thursday, Oct. 2

n Covington at Fontainebleau

n Hammond at Slidell

n Lakeshore at Salmen

n Northshore at Mandeville

n Pearl River at Chalmette

Friday, Oct. 3

n Hannan at St. Thomas Aquinas

n Northlake Christian at Breaux Bridge

n Pope John Paul II at St. Martin’s

n University at St. Paul’s

WEEK 6

Friday, Oct. 10

DISTRICT 6-5A

n Hammond at St. Paul’s

n Mandeville at Covington

DISTRICT 7-5A

n Fontainebleau at Slidell

n Northshore at Salmen

DISTRICT 7-4A

n Franklinton at Lakeshore

n Pearl River at Hannan

DISTRICT 9-2A

n Pope John Paul II at St. Thomas Aquinas

NONDISTRICT

n Kenner Discovery at Northlake Christian

WEEK 7

Thursday, Oct. 16

DISTRICT 9-2A

n Northlake Christian at Pope John Paul II

Friday, Oct. 17

DISTRICT 6-5A

n Mandeville at Hammond

n St. Paul’s at Ponchatoula

DISTRICT 7-5A

n Chalmette at Northshore

n Salmen at Fontainebleau

DISTRICT 7-4A

n Hannan at Loranger

n Lakeshore at Pearl River

NONDISTRICT

n Slidell at Covington

WEEK

8

Friday, Oct. 24

DISTRICT 6-5A

n Hammond at Covington

n Ponchatoula at Mandeville

DISTRICT 7-5A

n Fontainebleau at Chalmette

n Salmen at Slidell

DISTRICT 7-4A

n Loranger at Lakeshore

n Pearl River at Franklinton

DISTRICT 9-2A

n Independence at Pope John Paul II

n St. Thomas Aquinas at Northlake Christian

NONDISTRICT

n St. Paul’s at Northshore

n Cohen at Hannan

WEEK 9

Thursday, Oct. 30

DISTRICT 7-5A

n Slidell at Chalmette

NONDISTRICT

n Pope John Paul II at Pearl River

Friday, Oct. 31

DISTRICT 6-5A

n Covington at Ponchatoula

n Mandeville at St. Paul’s

DISTRICT 7-5A

n Northshore at Fontainebleau

DISTRICT 7-4A

n Lakeshore at Hannan

DISTRICT 9-2A

n Northlake Christian at St. Helena

NONDISTRICT

n Salmen at Hammond

WEEK 10

Thursday, Nov. 6

NONDISTRICT

n Hahnville at Lakeshore

Friday, Nov. 7

DISTRICT 6-5A

n Covington at St. Paul’s

DISTRICT 7-5A

n Chalmette at Salmen

n Slidell at Northshore

DISTRICT 7-4A

n Hannan at Franklinton

n Loranger at Pearl River

DISTRICT 9-2A

n Independence at Northlake Christian

n St. Helena at Pope John Paul II

NONDISTRICT

n Fontainebleau at Mandeville

With speed and confidence

PHOTO BY BOBBY GILBOY

and

Brock are expected to lead the Lions’ receiving corps in 2025.

Covington receivers Jiwaun Brock and Amari Smith are ready to shine

BY MIKE PERVEL

Contributing writer

There might not be a more established pair of wide receivers in the parish than Covington seniors Jiwaun Brock and Amari Smith.

Brock (5-11, 170) ran the 40 in 4.4 seconds at a Tulane camp this summer and is coming off a junior campaign that included 54 catches for 877 yards and 7 TDs, leading the Lions in all three categories.

“I’m a very competitive receiver and just love playing the game,” Brock said. “I love showcasing my speed and athleticism, running routes. I’m able to get free and track the ball, and just go

“I’m loving the quarterback competition, which will make us a better team. Both of them have confidence with Andrew (Reynolds) being a true pocket guy, and Matthew (Fussell) being more mobile and more of a dual-threat.”

AMARI SMITH, Covington senior wide receiver

get it. I love snatching the ball from defenders when they think they’re ready to make an interception.”

Smith (5-10, 160), who plays in the slot, is the perfect complement to Brock. Smith snatched 41 passes, totaling 552 yards and four scores last season.

“I’m ready to do my job, picking up

after a good year last season. I love being a Lion, having a part in our rich tradition. It’s a pride thing, and it means everything to be part of the legacy here at Covington High,” Smith said.

“I consider myself a smooth receiver with technical skills, finding ways to get open in space. Jiwaun (Brock) and I complement each other, finding holes

in the secondary.”

Brock, who is a Texas State commitment, also has a chip on his shoulder after falling to Mandeville by two points last year for their first of only two regular-season losses.

“My confidence level is sky high, and the team is hungry to prove ourselves,” Brock said. “The Mandeville game was a pure dogfight and the outcome still bothers me a lot, so we’re looking forward to this season’s rematch.”

That confidence helps set the duo apart, especially since the Lions will be breaking in a new starting quarterback this season.

ä See COVINGTON, page 8

Covington seniors Amari Smith

Jiwaun

Quarterback, offensive line key for Lions Covington football 2025at a glance

COVINGTON LIONS 2025 VITALS

COACH: Greg Salter (13th season, 74-61)

OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR: Riley Boudreaux

OFFENSE RUN: Pro Spread

DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR: Chris Blocker

DEFENSE RUN: 4-3

PROJECTED STARTERS

* indicates returning starter

OFFENSE (3 RETURNING STARTERS): QB Andrew Reynolds, Sr., or Matthew Fussell, Jr.; RB *Jake Pompa, Sr., RB Rodney Clark, Jr.; WR *Jiwaun Brock, Sr.; WR *Amari Smith, Sr.; WR Mason Cryer, Sr.; WR Braeshun Weary, Jr., or Devonta Chatman, Jr.; LT Justin Van, Sr.; LG Kole Curry, Sr., or Jackson Brewer, Jr.; C Alex Hughes, Jr.; RG Sam Aparicio, Jr., or Jackson Brewer, Jr.; RT Patrick Yoes, Jr

DEFENSE (7 RETURNING STARTERS): DE *Peyton Dwight, Jr.; DT *Addron Jackson, Sr.; NG *Max Guy, Jr.; DE Owen Zitzmann, Sr., or Payton Taylor, Jr.; OLB *Termarkus Scott, Sr.; MLB *Steele Rogers, Jr.; OLB Derrick Dunbar, Jr.; DB *Alan Abdullah,

Sr.; DB Cameron Johnson, Jr.; FS Brady Graham, Sr., or Kaydin Antoine, Jr.; SS

*Greyson Frederick, Sr.

SPECIAL TEAMS: PK *Jackson Aleman, Jr.; P *Brady Graham, Sr.; RET *Jiwaun Brock, Sr., or *Amari Smith, Sr.

SCHEDULE

All games on a Friday at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted. All District 6-5A games notated with an asterisk.

SEPT. 5, Bogalusa (A); SEPT. 12, Franklinton (H); SEPT. 19, Booker T. Washington (H); SEPT. 26, Northshore (A); OCT. 2 (THU.), Fontainebleau (A); OCT. 10, *Mandeville (H); OCT. 17, Slidell (H); OCT. 24, *Hammond (H); OCT. 31, *Ponchatoula (A); NOV. 7, *St. Paul’s (A).

TOUGHEST GAMES: vs. Mandeville (Week 6); at St. Paul’s (Week 10).

2024 FLASHBACK

2024 RECORD: 9-3, 2-2 District 6-5A (third place). 16th seed in D-I nonselect playoffs; defeated (17) Barbe, 36-29 (first round); lost to (1) Neville, 44-13 (second round)

2024 REGULAR-SEASON RESULTS: 1, Bogalusa, W 48-6 (1-0); 2, Franklinton, W 32-21 (2-0); 3, Booker T. Washington, W 42-14 (30); 4, Northshore, W 28-0 (4-0); 5, Fontainebleau, W 48-0 (5-0); 6, Mandeville, L 35-33 (5-1); 7, Slidell, W 7-6 (6-1); 8, Hammond, W 49-13 (7-1); 9, Ponchatoula, W 33-9 (8-1); 10, St. Paul’s, L 38-28 (8-2).

LOOK AHEAD TO 2025

The Lions are coming off their first playoff victory since 2019, so the expectations are high at Jack Salter Stadium. The good news is that receivers Jiwaun Brock and Amari Smith return after combining for 95 catches, 1,439 yards and 11 TDs last season. That’s a ton of offensive firepower back. Where the Lions are lacking experience is on their offensive line that features five new starters and at quarterback where senior Andrew Reynolds and junior Matthew Fussell are vying to start under center.

“We’re hoping our new guys on the O-line can jell quickly, so we can be a balanced offense, helping the passing game,” senior running back Jake Pompa said. He’s one of 20 seniors on the team,

which coach Greg Salter hopes will provide steady leadership.

Defensively, Covington has some key holes to fill, but the Lions return seven starters to that unit. That’s a significant number highlighted by linebacker Termarkus Scott. But he’s not the only key returner — senior defensive backs Greyson Frederick (40 tackles, 12 assists) and Alan Abdullah (23 tackles, 13 assists and 2 INTs) are back. Senior Addron Jackson (5-10, 225) will help anchor the defensive line.

Replacing quarterback Caden Heck will be a tall task for the Lions, but they have enough skill players to make most QBs look good. The defense is experienced once again, and Scott should have a breakout season. The pieces are in place for continued success, but District 6-5A is improved. The shortened grind of district play will prove challenging, but if Covington can find a QB and avoid the injury bug, they will be a tough team to beat.

PROJECTED FINISH: 8-4 overall, 2-2 in District 6-5A. 12-16 seed in D-I nonselect playoffs; win at home in the first round, lose on the road in the second round.

COVINGTON

Continued from page 6

Graduated is quarterback Caden Heck, who threw for 2,096 yards with 17 TDs and ran for 1,002 yards and 11 scores last year. Senior Andrew Reynolds (6-2, 190) and junior Matthew Fussell (5-11, 165) are in a quarterback competition that will not be decided until Week 1, coach Greg Salter said.

“They’re both in a good battle, competing for the job, and the starter won’t be named until after the preseason, heading into week one,” Salter said. “We have great experienced leaders with lots of talent at the offensive skill positions, especially at wide receiver with Brock and Smith. Their experience and continued production will be instrumental in the development at the QB position.”

Smith said the Lions’ QB battle will only make the team stronger

“I’m loving the quarterback competition, which will make us a better team,” he said. “Both of them have confidence with Andrew (Reynolds) being a true pocket guy, and Matthew (Fussell) being more mobile and more of a dual-threat.”

Senior Jake Pompa (5-9, 185) returns at running back after registering 6 TDs

so we’re a good tandem that the team can count on. We feel like we can be a balanced offense.”

Disruptive force

Defensively, the Lions have a few major holes to fill, replacing linebackers Chase Blackwell (leading tackler) and Bobby Barkley (six interceptions). Defensive back Jeremy Elzy, a two-way performer, creates another big loss along with safety Ryan Jones.

The good news is that senior outside linebacker Termarkus Scott (6-0, 200) is back. A three-year starter, Scott has a nose for the football. He registered 64 tackles with 28 assists last season to go with a team-high 10 sacks and 18 TFLs

“We have a great group of seniors, and everything is falling into place. I consider myself a sure tackler who takes the right angles to track down the ball carrier. We need to be good communicators, flying to the football and never taking any plays off,” Scott said.

Scott broke his thumb as a sophomore, which limited him to four starts, but he came back with a vengeance last year. He hopes to use that tenacity to reach even greater heights as a senior.

last year. Pompa, who transferred to Covington High from Wisconsin as a sophomore, is a versatile back.

“I’m a team player, so whatever it

takes is what my coaches will get from me,” Pompa said. “Junior Rodney Clark and I form a good one-two combo in the backfield. He’s got speed and strength,

“I thoroughly enjoy watching and breaking down opponents’ game film. I definitely think that gives me an advantage,” Scott said.

Senior linebacker Termarkus Scott

PHOTOS BY BOBBY GILBOY

Covington’s Alan Abdullah tackles a Ponchatoula ball carrier.

Junior quarterback Matthew Fussell

Senior quarterback Andrew Reynolds

Hendricks, O’Quin reunited in the backfield for Mandeville

BY JOSEPH HALM Staff writer

This will be Mandeville quarterback Ben Hendricks’ final season

The 5-foot-10, 170-pound senior took over late during his sophomore season as the Skippers went on the school’s fourth-ever semifinals run. Now a threeyear starter, the senior is an elder statesman.

“It’s going to be fun,” Hendricks said, with a confident smile.

That confidence will be key to the Skippers’ success Graduated is other-worldly talent, Nate Sheppard, to Duke. Isaiah Baham graduated as well, along with several productive receivers.

But those graduations mean Hendricks will have a homecoming of sorts with senior Jax O’Quin, who moves from fullback to running back. The duo started JV as sophomores before Hendricks took over on varsity

“I think the key will be Jax O’Quin at running back. Everyone is going to want to talk about what we lost at running back with Nate (Sheppard), and there’s no denying that’s a big loss. Jax is a different style of running back, but he’s made some significant growth,” Mandeville coach Craig Jones said.

“Ben (Hendricks) coming back is huge. He’s the guy who, since we’ve put him in the starting role, has been cool, calm and collected. It’s nice to have those qualities in that position.”

O’Quin, who had four touchdowns last season, said he’s ready for an increased workload.

“We have a physical O-line. Ben can run. I can run, so we want to push it between the tackles,” O’Quin said. “We want people to know that we’re physical, but I think we’ll be able to be versatile as well.”

Mandeville receiver Jake Jacketti, who led the Skippers in receiving last season with 24 catches for 379 yards and 5 TDs, is back The junior said he has improved on his speed this offseason.

“We’ve had a running offense the last three years, but I think we’ll go more through the air this year,” Jacketti said. “We have a good wide receiver corps. And we’ll still be able to run the ball with Jax O’Quin, so I think we’ll be versatile.”

Hendricks said having O’Quin in the backfield along with a deep receiving corps should lead to plenty of offense.

“He’s one of my best friends,” Hendricks said. “He’s athletic He’s going to make some plays. He really helped our offense run last year. We have athletes at receiver who can make plays.”

Mandeville senior middle linebacker Braxton Paddio agreed: “I think the offense’s strength is that we have dual threats. They’ll be able to get the ball to the receivers. They have good hands, and they run clean routes. It also really helps having Ben (Hen-

dricks) back. Jax (O’Quin) is going to be great in the backfield. It’s a really complete unit.”

Defensive experience

With a good amount of turnover on both sides of the ball, the unit with the most experience is the secondary

“We’re going to be good this year,” Mandeville senior defensive lineman Marques Zenon said. “I just feel it in my heart. I just can’t wait to hit and play football. On the defensive line, we want to be physical. Our secondary is going to be dynamic too.”

One of those returning starters is junior Dylan Henry, who will play safety for a second straight season. Henry, who holds offers from UNLV, UCF, Oregon State, Sacramento State, Idaho State and others, said he used the summer to get stronger, faster and increase his football IQ.

“I like playing safety because I can just roam the field and make plays,” said Henry, who is the leading returning tackler. “I like that I can see the whole field and call out what the offense is in. I call out everything that they’re in, their motions and personnel. I like to go for the ball. Once that ball is up there, I have the advantage, so I’m going to go get it. I’m going to be a ballhawk.”

Seniors Maddux Fussell and Dylan Gali also return in the secondary, along with senior defensive back Montrell White. That’s a lot of experience in the back end for a team that has several players making the jump from JV to varsity this season.

“We’re excited with what we have,” Jones said. “This will be the first year that we’ve had a lot of

PHOTOS BY JOE TROMBATORE

Mandeville senior Jax O’Quin will take over the lead running back role this season.

Senior quarterback Ben Hendricks returns for his third season as the starter.

Mandeville football 2025at a glance

Skippers’ youth movement poised for continued success

MANDEVILLE SKIPPERS

2025 VITALS

COACH: Craig Jones (fourth season at Mandeville, 23-13; 13th season overall with nine seasons at Lakeshore, 94-48)

OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR: Richard Guillot

OFFENSE RUN: Multiple

DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR: Zach Vicknair

DEFENSE RUN: Multiple

PROJECTED STARTERS

* indicates returning starter

OFFENSE (6 RETURNING STARTERS): QB *Ben Hendricks, Sr.; RB *Jax O’Quin, Sr.; FB Landon Lips, Soph.; WR *Jake Jacketti, Jr.; WR *Luke Demelo, Jr.; WR Dylan Henry, Jr.; TE Connor Konopka, Sr.; OT Nick Ingram, Sr.; OG Travis Costanza, Sr.; C *Thomas Goscienski, Sr.; OG Dominic Rossetti, Sr., or Ryan Laurent, Sr.; OT *Nick Averett, Sr.

DEFENSE (6 RETURNING STARTERS): DL *Marques Zenon, Sr.; DL Nick Ingram, Sr.; DL Konner Terese, Soph., or Colby Ryan, Jr.; DL Chance Grant, Sr.; LB *Braxton Paddio, Sr.; LB Cameron Martin, Sr., or Charles Ortner, Sr., or Lewis Petty, Jr.; DB *Montrell White, Sr.; DB Jareath Francis, Sr.; S *Dylan Gali, Sr.; FS *Dylan Henry, Jr.; S *Maddux Fussell, Sr.

SPECIAL TEAMS: PK Carson Champagne, Soph., or Drew Collura, Fr.; P Carson Champagne, Soph., or Kingsley Hunt, Soph.; LS *Landon Lips, Soph.; RET Dylan

turnover in terms of losing a lot of experience from the year before. We have some guys who have been every successful at the freshman and JV levels, and I’m excited about what they can do varsity-wise.”

As for the strengths of his team, Jones said the Skippers’ speed could be a difference maker.

“I would like to think that we’ll be able to lean on the running game,” Jones said “I would think that we’re going to be young from an experience standpoint on defense, but I think we’re going to tackle well and cover well. We’re not going to be as big as we were last year. We’re going to have to play faster.”

LOOK AHEAD TO 2025

The Nate Sheppard era at Mandeville is officially over, but the cupboard is far from bare. In fact, as Mandeville coach Craig Jones enters his fourth season at the helm, it’s the program’s depth that has the coach, who is just six wins shy of 100, excited. The Skippers return 12 starters across the board, but they also have a ton of sophomores and juniors who move up to varsity. Over the past two seasons, the freshman and JV teams have combined to lose just three games. That’s a lot of success that should translate to the next level.

Offensively, senior Ben Hendricks returns at quarterback, so his experience will be key.

linebacker after starting on the defensive line last year, racking up 12 TFLs and five sacks. “As linebackers, we really need to take initiative,” Paddio said. “We just need to take control of the game while we’re on the field. Coach Beebe has really been helping with all the details. We know we have to be focused and vocal on the field.” Four starters return in the secondary as that unit looks to be a strength.

Senior Marques Zenon (6-2, 250) anchors the defensive line after recording 13 TFLs a season ago.

Henry, Jr., or Jake Jacketti, Jr., or Luke Demelo, Jr.

SCHEDULE

All games on a Friday at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted All District 6-5A games notated with an asterisk.

SEPT. 5, Salmen (H); SEPT. 12, Madison Prep (A); SEPT. 19, G.W. Carver (H); SEPT. 26, Slidell (A); OCT. 2 (THU.), Northshore (H); OCT. 10, *Covington (A); OCT. 17, *Hammond (A); OCT. 24, *Ponchatoula (H); OCT. 31, *St. Paul’s (A); NOV. 7, Fontainebleau (H). TOUGHEST GAMES: at Covington

(Week 6); at St. Paul’s (Week 9).

2024 FLASHBACK

2024 RECORD: 10-2, 3-1 District 6-5A (second place). 5th seed in D-I nonselect playoffs; defeated (28) Sam Houston, 31-16 (first round); lost to (20) West Monroe, 20-9 (second round).

2024 REGULAR-SEASON RESULTS: 1, Salmen, W 42-14 (1-0); 2, Madison Prep, W 53-42 (2-0); 3, Carver, W 49-0 (3-0); 4, Slidell, W 56-14 (40); 5, Northshore, W 42-0 (5-0); 6, Covington, W 35-33; 7, Hammond, W 41-19 (7-0); 8, Ponchatoula, W 34-7 (8-0); 9, St. Paul’s, L 30-28 (81); 10, Fontainebleau, W 48-7 (9-1).

The junior receiving trio of Jake Jacketti, Luke Demelo, and Dylan Henry should provide several quality options for Hendricks to choose from. When only two starters returning on the offensive line — senior center Thomas Goscienski and senior tackle Nick Averett — the unit is filled with seniors who are poised to step into a varsity role. Add in senior tight end Connor Konopka, and the Skippers could be more of a downhill running unit, which should help the receivers be that much more dynamic.

Defensively, the Skippers will need to replace two three-year starters at linebacker in Wyatt Hammant (67 tackles) and Chase McCarthy (56 tackles).

Senior Braxton Paddio moves to

Despite losing a ton of talent on both sides of the ball (Michael White set a new school record with 10 INTs last year), the Skippers are in good shape as a program. There is a ton of talent in the sophomore and junior classes, so the drop-off should be minimal. The biggest question is who will step up to get tough yards or make a key defensive play in big moments? Another, perhaps underrated question, is who will replace kicker Creighton Wilbanks, who is now at Southern Miss? The scorelines will undoubtedly be closer than last season, but the Skippers should be able to lean on some experienced seniors to continue their streak of recent success.

PROJECTED FINISH: 10-3 overall, 3-1 in District 6-5A; 4-8 seed in D-I nonselect playoffs with a run to the quarterfinals.

PHOTOS BY JOE TROMBATORE

Mandeville junior Dylan Henry and coach Craig Jones lead a prayer to end practice.

Senior Montrell White

Junior Dylan Henry Center Thomas Goscienski

Senior linebacker Braxton Paddio

READY TO EXPLODE

Corales, Willis ready to lead potent St. Paul’s offense

BY JOSEPH HALM Staff writer

St. Paul’s running back Cody hide the smile on his face.

The senior was just asked thoughts on what the Wolves could be in 2025.

“I feel like we’re going pretty explosive,” Corales “I feel like we have three makers who can score on play. Troy (Willis) and I have been playing together sinc sophomore year We trust each other, and we’ve been building that trust with (Brady) Pierson. I think our offense can be pretty special.”

Corales, along with senior running back Troy Willis and senior wide receiver Brennan Villa, are entering their third season as starters for the Wolves. Villa, who hauled in 39 passes for 828 yards and 7 TDs last season, is a little over 600 yards away from the St Paul’s career receiving yards mark.

Corales and Willis are ready to put together full seasons ter injuries shortened their campaigns. Both still put u numbers last season. Corales, has a Nicholls offer, posted for 646 yards (6.7 yards per 7 touchdowns and caught 10 yards and a touchdown in 2024. 148 times for 736 yards (nearly ry) and 9 touchdowns.

“We have some great tea “Ever since me, Brennan ( lla) Cody (Corales) got here freshman year, we always just competed. We were on scout team as freshmen, and we were all about winning reps. It made us hungrier. I believe that this can be one of the best offenses to come through St. Paul’s.”

Factor in three returning offensive linemen — seniors Joel Scobel (6-3, 265) and Nate Canizaro (5-11, 250) and sophomore Andrew Shofstahl (6-3, 320) — and there is plenty of reason to believe the offense will be dynamic

“Having those three back and having three offensive linemen back is huge,” coach Kenny Sears said. “Cody

STAFF PHOTO BY JOSEPH HALM

St. Paul’s senior running backs Troy Willis, left, and Cody Corales will lead the offense in 2025.

and Troy are both explosive backs who bring different things to the table. We’ll have some opportunities during the season, but we just have to stay healthy.”

The biggest question mark on offense was who would replace three-year starter Brennan Keim, who was undefeated in district play and set the career passing mark with 4,629 yards over his career

unit can be very good,” Villa lot because he was an awehave some guys ready to step up. talent across the board, and of offensive linemen back. I see what the offense can do.” those players stepping up is juquarterback Brady Pierson. definitely gained a lot of confidence going through the sum,” Pierson said. “I’ve gotten re comfortable in the pocket. The 7-on-7s this summer were huge. It really gave me a lot of confidence that I was going to get it done.”

Sears agreed: “Brady (Pierson) has had a phenomenal spring and summer He brings some different things to the table. That helped us tweak our offense a little bit to complement him.”

The Wolves should be more multiple this year, and that suits the unit’s returning starters just fine.

“Brady is a very speedy quarterback, and he has an arm too,” Willis said. “With me and Cody (Corales) in the backfield, it’s almost like a trioption. It’s going to be hard teams to stop.”

ive turnover offense returns six startdefense has just four returners, come at key positions. Brown (6-2, 275) will anchor the posting four sacks last season. (6-1, 225) and Brett West (6-2, 5) ker and provide a physical presence to that unit. Post, who was a first-time starter last year, said he’s ready to build on his 62.5 tackles and 16.5 TFLs from last season.

“Last year was my first varsity start, so I was a little nervous, but once I got that first tackle, I knew I was going to be fine,” Post said. “Last year was a pretty good year Now, I want to build on that. I’ve got good speed, but my bulk is important. And it’s all about working with my teammates and being aggressive.”

Post actually started at wide receiver in middle

ä See ST. PAUL’S, page 14

Linebacker Brett West

Offensive lineman Andrew Shofstahl

PHOTOS BY JOEY MICHEL

St. Paul’s senior Cody Corales runs for some tough yards during a scrimmage against Curtis on Aug. 20.

ST. PAUL’S

Continued from page 12

school, but quickly found a home on the defense.

Senior safety Aiden Brooks (6-2, 180) is the only returning starter in a secondary that will be young but talented. Brooks said the defense has a singular focus.

“We’re going to bring pressure,” Brooks said. “Third down, second down, we’re going to make sure the other team is uncomfortable. In the secondary, it’s all about communication and being in the right spot.”

Post echoed Brooks’ comments.

“Communication will be key,” Post said. “We have all the people that we need, and we have good chemistry. The only thing that we need to really improve every week is our communication between each other.”

St. Paul’s football 2025at a glance

Health, seniors key to 3rd consecutive district title

ST. PAUL’S WOLVES 2025 VITALS

COACH: Kenny Sears (27th season, 189-98)

OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR: Kenny Sears III

OFFENSE RUN: Multiple

DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR: Eric Rebaudo

DEFENSE RUN: Multiple

PROJECTED STARTERS

* indicates returning starter OFFENSE (6 RETURNING STARTERS): QB Brady Pierson, Jr.; RB *Cody Corales, Sr.; RB *Troy Willis, Sr.; WR *Brennan Villa, Sr.; WR Patrick Gahagan, Jr.; WR Daniel Harty, Jr.; TE Christopher Bevolo, Jr., or Adam Connell, Jr.; OL Brayson Amacker, Sr.; OL *Nate Canizaro, Sr.; OL Matthew Blanchard, Sr.; OL *Joel Scobel, Sr.; OL *Andrew Shofstahl, Soph

DEFENSE (4 RETURNING START-

ERS): DL *Gage Brown, Sr.; DL Jacob April, Jr., or Christian Boyer, Sr.; DL Merrick Ancar, Sr., or Chris Cabibi, Jr., or James Purvis, Sr.; DL Anderson Padilla, Soph., or Brody Boyce, Soph.; LB *Brett West, Sr.; LB *Dylan Post,

Brother Martin (H); SEPT. 19, De La Salle (H); SEPT. 26, John F. Kennedy (H); OCT. 3, University Lab (H); OCT. 10, *Hammond (H); OCT. 17, *Ponchatoula (A); OCT. 24, Northshore (A); OCT. 31, *Mandeville (H); NOV. 7, *Covington (H).

TOUGHEST GAMES: vs. University Lab (Week 5); vs. Mandeville (Week 9); vs. Covington (Week 10).

2024 FLASHBACK

2024 RECORD: 9-2, 4-0 District 6-5A (first place), 7th seed in D-I select playoffs; lost to (10) Byrd, 37-15 (second round) after a first-round bye.

SCHEDULE

SPECIAL TEAMS: PK Carter Pierson, Sr.; P *Andrew Iennusa, Sr.; LS TBD; RET TBD

Sr.; LB Noah Vicknair, Sr.; LB Ben Davidson, Soph.; DB Christian Martin, Soph.; DB Rodrick Payne, Soph.; DB Mason Bazajou, Sr.; DB Taylor Richards, Jr.; S *Aiden Brooks, Sr.; S Hunter Marchand, Sr.; S Clay Sledge, Sr.; S Deacon Guice, Sr.

All games on a Friday at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted All District 6-5Agamesnotatedwithanasterisk.

SEPT. 5, Live Oak (A); SEPT. 12,

2024 REGULAR-SEASON RESULTS: 1, Live Oak, W 48-14 (1-0); 2, Brother Martin, L 31-28 (1-1); 3, De La Salle, W 21-14 (2-1); 4, John F. Kennedy, W 25-22 (3-1); 5, University, W 1-0 forfeit (4-1); 6, Hammond, W 45-13 (5-1); 7, Ponchatoula, W 42-7 (6-1); 8, Northshore, W 49-0 (7-1); 9, Mandeville, W 30-28 (8-1); 10, Covington, W 38-28 (9-1).

PHOTO BY GRANT THERKILDSEN

The St Paul’s Wolves take the field before their game against Brother Martin at Hunter Stadium last year.

PHOTOS BY JOEY MICHEL

St. Paul’s linebacker Dylan Post, the reigning St. Tammany Farmer All-Parish Defensive Player of the Year, returns to help anchor the defense.

St. Paul’s junior Brady Pierson takes over at quarterback for the Wolves.

HALM’S PICKS: DISTRICT 6-5A PREDICTIONS

St. Paul’s-Mandeville showdown will decide district crown

District 6-5A produced some classic games last season including two barn burners at Sidney Theriot Stadium.

In the end, St. Paul’s locked up a second straight undefeated crown, but it wasn’t easy as the Wolves knocked off Mandeville and Covington in consecutive weeks to end the regular season. If I was a betting man, I would circle St. Paul’s Week 9 game at Hunter Stadium against Mandeville as another classic that will likely decide the district title — again.

1 | St. Paul’s

the district title race.

3 | Covington

Yes, the Wolves will be breaking in a new quarterback, but it feels like they are the team to beat once again. They have three exceptional weapons returning on offense, and the defense will be solid as usual. The biggest question is can they survive a challenging early-season schedule and come out relatively healthy District 6-5A will be tough as well, but if the Wolves are healthy heading into Week 6, another district title will be their’s to lose.

2 | Mandeville

The Skippers were a last-second field goal away from a district title and an undefeated regular season last year. Mandeville players and coaches are well aware of how close they came, and that has been used as a bit of fuel in the offseason. The Skippers will have some growing pains with a relatively young roster, but all signs point to Mandeville once again giving St. Paul’s all they can handle in

ST. PAUL’S: LOOK AHEAD

The Wolves locked up a second straight undefeated district title with back-to-back road wins over Mandeville and Covington last season. Then, came a disappointing playoff loss to Byrd That defeat left a bitter taste in the team’s mouth after what was another otherwise successful season, and it has fueled the Wolves all offseason.

Offensively, junior quarterback Brady Pierson is taking over for three-year starter Brennan Keim. Pierson has impressed this summer as the Wolves repeated as Southeastern 7-on-7 tournament champions. Pierson said he turned a corner during the tournament, and his teammates echoed those sentiments. The Wolves are definitely comfort-

The Lions had a nice bounceback season last year with eight regular season wins. Their two losses came in district play against the two teams above them on this list. Covington is a bit harder to read this offseason. The Lions have talent to burn at the skill positions and a solid defensive unit returning, but quarterback remains a mystery with two players competing to be a first-time starter. That’s a tough ask in a very well-coached district. If Covington finds their quarterback quickly, they could give teams a lot of problems.

4 | Hammond

The Tors were supposed to have a bit of a rebuilding season last year, but coach Dorsett Buckles is building a program in Tornado Alley. Hammond went 6-4 in the regular season, including a second straight victory over Ponchatoula. They were young a year ago, and now they are a year wiser. The Tors have a ton of talent, so they will be tough in district play

5 | Ponchatoula

Second-year coach Timothy Walters believes his team grew during a tough two-win season last year. Sophomore quarterback Jackson Aucoin is inexperienced, but he will play behind a relatively experienced offensive line. The Green Wave simply needs to keep grinding as they look to improve in a tough district.

able with their new signal caller

While Pierson is a new starter, Corales, Willis and Villa are returning for their third year. That experience will be key.

Defensively, the Wolves are young on the line and in the secondary. How quickly those athletes grow into their starting roles will be key to that unit’s success. The good news is that there are experienced players returning at all three levels led by senior linebackers Dylan Post and Brett West. Post was a firsttime starter last year and grew into the parish Defensive Player of the Year. The Wolves will need a similar maturation this season from a couple of players, but there is no reason to believe that is out of the realm of possibility.

Special teams will also be an

important storyline heading into the season as senior Carter Pierson takes over for four-year starter Drew Talley, who is now kicking at Southeastern. Sears said Carter Pierson is ready after waiting behind Talley for the last few years. The Wolves have skill at all the important positions, but the main thing will be their overall team health. If St. Paul’s can get through the season relatively injury-free, another district title and much more will be on the table when November rolls around.

PROJECTED FINISH: 9-3 overall, 4-0 in District 6-5A. 4-8 seed in Division I select playoffs; make the school’s second quarterfinals run in the last three years.

Joseph Halm

Fontainebleau’s Conner Tyson will play on both sides of the ball for the Bulldogs this season.

‘Just

Seniors Tyson, Whittine ready to lead

Fontainebleau’s defense

BY JOSEPH HALM Staff writer

Fontainebleau seniors Semaj Whittine and Conner Tyson are ready to go out with a bang.

Both will be three-year starters when

want it more’

the Bulldogs travel to Lakeshore in Week 1.

“I feel like with this being my third year and my last year, I just want it more,” Tyson said. “Whenever my teammates see that, it makes them work harder. It helps make everybody step up and play their role.”

Whittine (6-2, 179) and Tyson (6-0, 184) will start at safety this season. Tyson will also see some snaps at quarterback, while Whittine will spend some time at receiver

“I feel like being the starting safety, you’re the one setting the tone,” Tyson said. “You see everything that is going on. You’re really the first one to see everything. You just can’t get caught watching because it can mess up the whole defense.”

The duo has not spent much time just watching. They have played multiple positions for the Bulldogs over the past two seasons, but during the spring, they switched to safety. Fontainebleau coach John Kavanaugh said the switch

just seemed natural.

“We’re excited about those guys,” Kavanaugh said. “They are both seniors, and they also play some offense for us. On defense, they are big safeties with a lot of range. We moved them there in the spring, and they have really played well.”

The duo said they plan to be ballhawks for a defensive unit that returns just a handful of starters.

“We just want to be better than we were last year,” Whittine said. “We

STAFF PHOTO BY SCOTT THRELKELD

want to improve and see a difference. If you don’t see a difference, you haven’t improved. That’s the focus — improvement. We want to surprise some people.”

They are also embracing their dual duties.

“With football, you don’t really get tired during the drive,” Tyson said. “If you just keep going play after play, you don’t even think about being tired. You don’t really get tired.”

Another senior contributor on defense will be linebacker Gabe Soliman (6-0, 215), who will also play tight end.

“The defense is going to fly around faster this year,” Soliman said. “A lot of us have played at several different positions, so I think that knowledge will be important. I think there will be a lot of good communication, so I think that will help us be successful.”

Senior linebacker Travis Green (5-11, 180) agreed: “We’ve really focused on execution and knowing our roles. Linebacker feels a lot more natural than D-line did because I’m able to move freely without my hand on the ground. Defensively, we want to be aggressive and impose our will.”

Ground based

While the defense has experience in the secondary, the offense plans to lean on an offensive line that returns three starters — sophomore Joseph May, junior Tony Berg and senior Cody Leibfrtiz.

“We’re going to lean heavily on our offensive line,” Kavanaugh said “We’re going to try to

control the football. It’s not that we won’t throw it, but I think it’s going to help us to keep the ball on the ground and shorten some games. We’ll have some guys going both ways, so it will benefit us to shorten the game a little bit.”

The Bulldogs will be breaking in a new quarterback with junior Logan Astugue (5-9, 155) taking the majority of the snaps. Tyson will also see some action. Sophomore Sheldon Asmore (5-8, 165) had an outstanding spring game at running back, but still, the offensive line will be the key

“You’ve got to be brothers because you’re in the trenches together,” Berg said. “Last year, we didn’t have any returning guys, but this year, we have a decent amount, including me. I think we’ll be a pretty good unit. I think the lines will be our strength on both sides of the ball.”

Senior slot receiver Carlin Cagnolatti (5-8, 145) replaces standout Sebastian Miller

“I’ve got high expectations for this team because we have a lot of guys who are talented,” Cagnolatti said. “We’ve got a lot of kids stepping up. I set myself to high expectations as well because we’re trying to do something special my senior year.”

The Bulldogs will be young across the board this season with several players going both ways, but Kavanaugh said the team has prepared for the physical toll.

“We definitely got stronger I’ve been

ä See FONTAINEBLEAU, page 46

STAFF PHOTO BY SCOTT THRELKELD Fontainebleau’s Semaj Whittine will be a player to watch for the Bulldogs this season.

This year, the offensive line should be a strength. I feel like we’ll be able to run a little more of a spread offense.

BOBBY SANDERS, Northshore coach

IN THE ZONE

Offensive line hopes to lead Northshore

BY JOSEPH HALM Staff writer

Northshore coach Bobby Sanders knew the Panthers might take some lumps last season, but even he couldn’t expect what was coming.

After three straight playoff appearances, Northshore limped to a 1-9 record with a roster full of inexperienced underclassmen.

“It was a rough year, but hopefully, it made us a little tougher,” Sanders said.

One area that has to improve is the offense after the Panthers managed just 71 points all of last season.

The good news is that unit is much more experienced this season, especially in the backfield, as junior JJ Gonzales takes over under center. Gonzales saw action last year Senior running back Ramon Williams is back after racking up over 700 yards rushing and 9 touchdowns a year ago.

“I feel we can do a lot better this year,” Williams said. “Like I’ve said before, if my teammates put their faith in me, I’ll put my faith in them. Our goal is just to get better each game. For me, I want to hit my 1,000 yards, and I can’t do that without my

teammates.”

Sanders, who will once again call the plays, is

optimistic.

“The backfield should be pretty good, barring injuries. I’m expecting good things. Last year, we didn’t have much team speed, and we were young on the offensive line. This year, the offensive line should be a strength. I feel like we’ll be able to run a little more of a spread offense,” Sanders said.

“JJ (Gonzales) is learning, and he’s done a good job of picking everything up. Being his first time as a varsity player, there were some growing pains last year. Now, JJ is getting comfortable in the

Northshore running back Ramon Williams returns for his senior season.

Offensive lineman Tarin Bridges

Offensive lineman Evan Orillion

PHOTOS BY JEANNIE DIMITRI SHUMAN

PHOTO BY PAM BIGGS PHOTOGRAPHY

Northshore wide receiver Aiden Kappes will play a key role this season.

PHOTO BY MATT DOBBINS

offense, and he’s getting on the same page as me.”

Another reason for optimism is the offensive line that returns three starters — senior Evan Orillion, along with juniors Tarin Bridges and Grant Lasseigne.

“We had a lot of young guys last season, and they have grown and matured,” Orillion said. “I’m excited for the offensive line because I feel like we’ll have more coordination. Now that we’ve been together for a year, we’re jelling. We’re all on the same page, so we feel like

the offense will be able to be more multiple.”

That growth has allowed the unit to focus on the finer details that could be the difference between a first down and a punt.

“We’ve been focusing on the little things,” Gonzales said. “I’ve been focusing on taking my time and getting the ball to our wide receivers in their hands. I don’t want to force anything. My footwork has gotten way better, so my accuracy is better too.”

MARK VERRET

Defensive back Kai WIlliams PHOTOS BY JEANNIE DIMITRI SHUMAN

Defensive lineman Kindle Brown-Cherry

NORTHSHORE

Continued from page 19

Defensive resurgence

For the last few years, the Panthers were known for their stout defense, but last year, the unit struggled after graduating several starters, including three college players.

Enter new defensive coordinator Chris Womack.

“It’s a similar scheme to what was done here in the past, so the players are picking it up well,” Womack said.

“We have a lot of good talent, so I’m excited about what this unit can be. I think if some of our younger guys step up, it can be a very solid unit.”

Womack spent the past few years at Denham Springs but moved back to St. Tammany (he previously coached at Lakeshore) to be closer to his daughter

“I think what Coach Womack brings is a lot of experience,” Sanders said. “We have a lot

of guys returning as well, so I think we’ll see good improvement with that unit. He is exactly what we need. We were very fortunate to get him away from Denham Springs.”

Senior defensive back Kai Williams leads an experienced secondary that should be a

strength.

“We’re stronger and faster,” Williams said. “We’ve been keeping our heads down and pushing. We’re ready to put last season behind us. Our bond this year is different, so that is important to our success. The key for the defense

is to play for each other We just need to keep our composure.”

Senior transfer Alex Mims (6-0, 210), along with juniors Brendell Vedol (5-8, 167), Shaun Carlton (5-10, 150) and Brennan Overby (5-11, 150), round out that unit.

Northshore football 2025 at a glance

Panthers ready to show growth

NORTHSHORE PANTHERS

2025 VITALS

COACH: Bobby Sanders (fifth season, 20-25)

OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR: Sanders

OFFENSE RUN: Spread

DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR: Chris Womack

DEFENSE RUN: Multiple

PROJECTED STARTERS

* indicates returning starter

OFFENSE (4 RETURNING STARTERS): QB JJ Gonzales, Jr.; RB *Ramon Williams, Sr.; WR Aidan Kappes, Sr.; WR Eli Knighton, Jr.; WR Tyson Burns, Jr.; TE Nathan Meyers, Jr.; OT *Tarin Bridges, Jr.; OG *Grant Lasseigne, Jr.; C Dominic Dimitri, Jr.; OG Dameon Padilla, Soph.; OT *Evan Orillion, Sr.

DEFENSE (5 RETURNING STARTERS): DE *Jovaughn Richardson, Sr.; NG Kindle Brown-Cherry, Jr.; DE Brayden Martin, Soph.; LB *Nathan Meyers, Jr.; LB *Austin Cohn, Sr.; LB Micah Cooper, Jr.; LB Christian Fisk, Sr.; DB *Kai Williams, Sr.; DB Shaun Carlton, Jr.;

FS Alex Mims, Sr.; FS *Brennan Overby, Jr.; SS Braedin Hopkins, Jr.

SPECIAL TEAMS: PK/P Will Lachney, Jr.; RET TBD

SCHEDULE

All games on a Friday at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted All District 7-5A games notated with an asterisk.

SEPT. 5, Picayune (H); SEPT. 12, John Curtis (A); SEPT. 19, Lakeshore (A); SEPT. 26, Covington (H); OCT. 2 (THU.), Mandeville (A); OCT. 10, *Salmen (A); OCT. 17, *Chalmette (H); OCT. 24, St. Paul’s (H); OCT. 31, *Fontainebleau (A); NOV. 7, *Slidell (H).

TOUGHEST GAMES: at Curtis (Week 2); at Mandeville (Week 5); vs. St. Paul’s (Week 8).

2024 FLASHBACK

2024 RECORD: 1-9 overall, 1-3 in District 7-5A (tied for third place). No playoffs.

2024 REGULAR-SEASON RESULTS: 1, Picayune (Miss.), L 35-0 (0-1); 2, Curtis, L 27-7 (0-2); 3, Lakeshore, L 41-10 (0-3); 4, Covington,

L 28-0 (0-4); 5, Mandeville, L 42-0 (0-5); 6, Salmen, L 18-14 (0-6); 7, Chalmette, L 27-0 (0-7); 8, St. Paul’s, L 49-0 (0-8); 9, Fontainebleau, W 21-14 (1-8); 10, Slidell, L, 24-19 (1-9).

LOOK AHEAD TO 2025

There’s no way to sugarcoat it — The Panthers struggled last year on both sides of the ball. But they should be improved in 2025 because a lot of young players got invaluable experience. That’s the bonus to playing underclassmen because at some point they grow up.

The Panthers will still be young on both sides of the ball, but with three returners on the offensive line there is plenty of reason to believe there will be improvement. Senior running back Ramon Williams is a quality runner, and junior JJ Gonzales is mobile and a year older under center. The wide receiver trio of senior Aidan Kappes (5-11, 170), along with juniors Tyson Burns (5-7, 140) and Eli Knighton (6-3, 176), all saw the field last season. That unit should be improved.

“We’re going to be junior and sophomore heavy in terms of starters, but I think that is going to help especially when we get to district,” Sanders said. “It’s a challenging nondistrict schedule, and I think it will make us a better team.”

on May 16.

Defensively, senior Jovaughn Richardson (6-2, 208) will be a force at defensive end. Junior Kindle Brown-Cherry (5-9, 280) is the nose guard while sophomore Brayden Martin (6-3, 220) rounds out the line. Junior outside linebacker Nate Meyers (5-11, 195) should be another differencemaker for first-year defensive coordinator Chris Womack.

“I think the potential is there to be pretty good, but there is so much turnover on both sides of the ball,” Northshore coach Bobby Sanders said. “I honestly

just want to see these kids go out and practice right and work hard, and I think the rest will sort itself out.”

That is a very honest assessment of this team. The Panthers have talent but are still a young squad overall. Their schedule is brutal, so if they can manage the early-season gauntlet, they could surprise a few folks in district play.

PROJECTED FINISH: 2-8 overall, 1-3 in District 7-5A. No postseason berth.

PHOTO BY JEANNIE DIMITRI SHUMAN Northshore coach Bobby Sanders talks to his team after the Panthers’ spring game against De La Salle

PHOTO BY PAM BIGGS PHOTOGRAPHY Northshore receiver Tyson Burns will play a key role at several positions this season.

STAFF PHOTO BY SCOTT THRELKELD Northshore’s JJ Gonzales will take over at quarterback this season.

TENACITY OF A TIGER

Slidell ready to build on a tough 2024 campaign

BY JOSEPH HALM Staff writer

Slidell tight end Jeremiah Birdlow was quiet for a moment.

The Tigers had just finished a summer practice, and the senior was asked what the team’s goals were for 2025. He thought for a minute, and then he looked up at the blue water tower in the distance.

“We want to paint the water tower green,” the 3-star recruit with half a dozen Division I offers said. “We want to paint the whole town green.”

That’s the mentality second-year coach Damon Page has instilled in his program. The goal is a state title that would be reflected on that water tower overlooking L.V McGinty Sr Stadium.

Coming off a 2-8 season, that level of confidence is precisely what Page wants to see.

“Last season, we got beat, but the kids never stopped competing,” Page said. “Without looking at the scoreboard, you couldn’t tell where we were because the effort was there. But all the mental mistakes were on tape, so they were able to learn from that. There were a lot of lessons learned for the players and coaches.”

And there was a lot of experience gained. The Tigers started a slew of sophomores, who jumped from freshman football to Friday Night Lights. This year, Slidell has 10 returners on offense, including junior quarterback Ricky Williams.

“We want to take a big leap,” Williams said. “We feel like we can do anything that we set our mind to. Last year is not going to happen this year. It’s a new year, and we’re

PHOTO BY MATT DOBBINS

Slidell wide receiver Jeremiah Birdlow celebrates his touchdown catch against Salmen on Oct. 25.

ready to show how much we’ve grown.”

The Tigers certainly have the tools to be dynamic offensively

Junior running back Ja’Kwan Jones is back after averaging 5 yards per carry last year Senior receiver Carlos Flemings Jr. is back after averaging 12.5 yards per catch a season ago.

Add in Birdlow at 6-foot-4, 235 pounds, and the offense has weapons to spare

“I believe in these guys over anybody,” Birdlow said. “I’d go to war with these guys. We’ve got a good quarterback. We’ve got a lot of wide receivers. We’re deep in the backfield. I think Ja’Kwan Jones is the best running back in the state.”

The Tigers also welcome first-year offensive coordinator Brett Bonnaffons, whose experience is already paying off.

“He has been tremendous for Ricky (Williams) in the sense that they can focus on the little things, where last year, we were just teaching football,” Page said. “Now, it is more technical. He’s working on footwork and his mechanics, which is a testament to Bonnaffons and what

he has brought.”

Flemings said the Tigers are also playing with a chip on their shoulder

“We’ve just been putting in the mental work to make sure that we don’t come out flat,” Flemings said. “The whole receiving corps is deep. We’ve got speed everywhere, so we just want to work on getting better.”

Birdlow agreed: “The mental side of things is important. We’ve got to stay disciplined throughout the game. I feel like we’re ready to handle adversity better this season. We want to be the most disciplined in the state.”

Trench warfare

The defense also returns a bulk of its starters, including three on the defensive line.

“I feel like we have a lot of potential on the D-line, so we’re going to make something happen this year,” senior Christian Cook-Wright said. “We’ve been playing with each other for a while, so we have a lot of chemistry Even the new guys

ä See SLIDELL, page 24

SLIDELL

Continued from page 23

coming in are working hard.”

A common theme for the defense, and the whole team, is brotherhood. Players mentioned their connection repeatedly, saying that it has only grown over the summer.

“We’re way more comfortable in the defense,” senior defensive lineman Khagen White said “We know the expectations, and we’re building on them. We’ve done a lot of conditioning this summer. We’re going to run and hit the whole game. We’re going to outlast every team.”

Page said the experience and depth on the defensive line should allow his linebackers to play faster and roam the field. He credited the entire defense for taking the lessons of a tough 2024 season and growing.

“Last year was all about gaining experience,” senior defensive lineman Elijah Cross said. “Now, we know what to expect, and there’s less thinking. You know your assignment, and you’re able to do it quicker We’re going to be a lot quicker with our reads this year.”

Page said he expects his team to take a step forward in his second year at the helm, and if things fall into place, the water tower might get a new paint job as well.

“The expectations are clear,” he said. “There is no guesswork because we’re in Year 2. Everyone knows what the standard is We’re just operating at that level now. The kids are confident because they’ve put in the work, and they feel good about themselves. We still have a long way to go, but I like where we are.”

Slidell football 2025at a glance

Tigers return numerous starters on both sides of the ball

SLIDELL TIGERS 2025 VITALS

COACH: Damon Page (second season, 2-8)

OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR: Brett Bonnaffons

OFFENSE RUN: Spread

DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR: Philip Smith

DEFENSE RUN: 4-3

PROJECTED STARTERS

* indicates returning starter

OFFENSE (10 RETURNING STARTERS): QB

*Ricky Williams, Jr.; RB *Ja’Kwan Jones, Jr.; RB D’Arrius Lee, Sr.; WR *Carlos Flemings Jr., Jr.; WR *Mike Thompson, Jr.; WR Jamar Spencer, Sr., or Kristopher Whittington Jr., Sr.; TE *Jeremiah Birdlow, Sr.; LT *Tristan Jordan, Jr.; LG *Jeremiah Hookfin, Soph.; C

*Shawn Williams, Sr.; RG *Landon Bissell, Sr.; RT *Sterling Garrett, Sr.

DEFENSE (7 RETURNING STARTERS): DL

*Elijah Cross, Sr.; DL *Christian CookWright, Sr.; DL *Khagen White, Sr.; DL Turell Washington, Sr., or Jake Luneau, Sr., or Raymond Marrero, Sr.; LB *Tyler Roberts, Sr.; LB *Bryant Brown, Jr.; LB

*Javonte Watkins, Jr.; LB Devin Hopkins, Jr., or Taurean McClelland, Jr.; DB *Eric Morgan, Sr.; DB *Kevin Johnson Jr., Jr.; DB

Cortez Thompson, Jr., or Nakoa Smith, Sr.; S Chyan Hurt, Jr., or Clyde McCoy, Sr.; S Jarvion Evans, Sr., or Caleb Baquet, Sr., or Collin Hartmann, Jr.

SPECIAL TEAMS: PK *Brennen Heim, Sr.; P Ricky Williams, Jr.; LS Jeremiah Birdlow, Sr.; RET *Carlos Flemings Jr., Sr., or Kevin Johnson Jr., Jr., or Chyan Hurt, Jr.

SCHEDULE

All games on a Friday at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted All District 7-5A games notated with an asterisk.

SEPT. 5, Lutcher (H); SEPT. 12, Livingston Academy (A); SEPT. 19, Warren Easton (A); SEPT. 26, Mandeville (H); OCT. 2 (THU.), Hammond (H); OCT. 10, *Fontainebleau (H); OCT. 17, Covington (A); OCT. 24, *Salmen (H); OCT 30 (THU.), *Chalmette (A); NOV. 7, *Northshore (A)

TOUGHEST GAMES: vs. Lutcher (Week 1); vs. Mandeville (Week 4); at Chalmette (Week 9).

2024 FLASHBACK

2024 RECORD: 2-8, 1-3 District 7-5A (tied for third), did not make the playoffs.

2024 REGULAR-SEASON RESULTS: 1, Lutcher, L 28-12 (0-1); 2, Livingston Collegiate, W 34-12 (1-1); 3, Warren Easton, L 21-0 (1-2); 4, Mandeville, L 56-14 (1-3); 5, Hammond, L 42-14 (1-4); 6, Fontainebleau, L 28-21 (1-5); 7, Covington, L 7-6 (1-6); 8, Salmen, L 31-14 (1-7); 9, Chalmette, L 31-21 (1-8); 10, Northshore, W 24-19 (2-8).

LOOK AHEAD TO 2025

Last season, the Tigers started numerous underclassmen, and they took their bumps. But they never stopped competing, and that was exactly what first-year coach Damon Page wanted to see. It was far from pretty, but the experience gained was invaluable. And now, a much more seasoned Slidell team will take the field in 2025.

Ten starters return on offense for firstyear coordinator Brett Bonnaffons. While skill players like junior quarterback Ricky Williams and running back Ja’Kwan Jones will get a bulk of the headlines, don’t forget that the entire offensive line returns. That is huge because the Tigers have a ton of talent at the skill positions. If the offensive line can excel this season, the offense will put up points in bunches.

Defensively, the strength will be the defensive line, but the Tigers also return three starting linebackers. Senior Tyler Roberts is back at the middle linebacker spot to help anchor that unit while juniors Bryant Brown and Javonte Watkins bring experience on the outside. The secondary returns two starting corners in senior Eric Morgan and junior Kevin Johnson, while the Tigers will have a new crew at safety.

“We have no selfish players on this team,” tight end Jeremiah Birdlow said. “Everybody wants to see each other win. It’s not just a football team; it’s a brotherhood.”

The Tigers endured some expected growing pains last season, and now it is time to reap the benefits. The players have said all the right things in the offseason, so if that translates onto the field, Slidell will be tough in District 7-5A. Another reason for hope is that it is the second year for Page and his system. Now, his players are experienced on the field and with their coaching staff, so expectations are high, and they should be.

PROJECTED FINISH: 5-6 overall, 2-2 in District 7-5A. 24-28 seed in the Division I nonselect playoff; lose on the road in the first round.

STAFF PHOTO BY SCOTT THRELKELD

Slidell junior Ricky Williams, right, returns at quarterback this season.

‘Everybody just pulled together’

Covington football turns 100 this year, and the 1976 state title team is still the standard

BY JOSEPH HALM Staff writer

Covington football turns 100 this season.

That’s right, since 1925, the Lions have played high school football in Covington. It started with coach Harry Thomas and continues today with coach Greg Salter at the helm.

Salter is the grandson of legendary coach Jack Salter, who guided the Lions through their most successful stretch in school history From 1963-95, Jack Salter racked up an impressive record of 256-110-8 with 15 district titles (there are only 20 in school history). But most importantly the Lions played in four state championship games (1975, 1976, 1981 and 1987) during that period, winning the 1976 state title with a 14-7 victory over Istrouma at the Cow Palace (now the site of William Pitcher Junior High ).

For those of you keeping track at home, the school’s all-time record stands at 603-410-30. Pretty impressive.

So, as the Lions celebrate 100 years on the gridiron this fall, it only seems appropriate to take a detailed look back at that magical 1976 season.

Setting the stage

The 1976 season started with plenty of hope but many questions. The Lions were coming off a 14-1 campaign that ended at SLU’s Strawberry Stadium with a 35-13 loss to St. Augustine in the state championship game.

It was the first time the Lions had made a championship game appearance, and they did it in Class 4A, the state’s highest classification at the time. Covington defensive end Kyle Bruhl, a defensive end on both the ’75 and ’76 teams, remembers that the players had the option of playing at the Cow Palace for the 1975 state championship game, but decided to play the championship game at Southeastern to allow more fans to watch the contest.

St. Augustine had 11 players who went on to play Division I college football, so that might

coming off a three-year stretch where they went 26-2-2 during the regular season.

“I think everybody just pulled together,” said Covington quarterback Darryl Graham, who also served as the punter on the ’75 team as a sophomore. “We were the kind of guys who just loved playing any kind of sport from daylight to dark. It was just something that we all enjoyed doing Everyone got along well and the coaches did their part to put us in the right spots. It just all came together.”

Dominant start

To say the Lions were driven by the way the 1975 season ended would be an understatement.

ington High was very fortunate to draw from a big area that produced some pretty good athletes for many years.”

That talent was dominant during the regular season in 1976. How dominant? The Lions outscored their opponents 285-24. The defense boasted seven regular-season shutouts and only allowed one team — Bogalusa in Week 6 — to reach double digits. The result was still a 40-12 domination by the Lions, although the Lumberjacks led 12-7 in the second quarter

have been a big reason for the Purple Knights’ victory But the Lions weren’t taking any chances; if given the choice in 1976, the team was staying at home. Still, the team graduated 27 lettermen, and the Lions were

Covington defensive end Kyle Bruhl said the disappointment was all the fuel that the team needed but it was more than just a revenge tour.

“Covington football meant a lot to the players and coaches and, for sure, the fans,” Bruhl said. “It was a great time to be a Covington High Lion. Football was king at every school, so Cov-

Covington took that game so personally that they shut out their next four opponents to end the regular season. Meanwhile, the offense rolled up 3,022 yards in 10 games. The Lions were undefeated once again and ready for the playoffs.

Postseason grind

The Lions made short work of Nicholls High in the first round with a 21-6 victory. Covington outgained the Bobcats 464 to 128

PROVIDED PHOTOS

Covington’s Jeff Fussell, left, Dennis Sharp and the rest of the Lions celebrate a 28-21 semifinal win over Woodlawn in Shreveport in 1976.

Covington students decorate a bus before they head to Shreveport for the 1976 state semifinal game against Woodlawn.

Covington defensive lineman Kyle Bruhl

1976 Class 4A State Championship Program

Covington running back Frank Walker scores the first touchdown against Istrouma during the 1976 Class 4A state championship game.

Covington QB Darryl Graham finds some running oom against Baker during the 1976 footbal season. ä See TOGETHER, page 28

TOGETHER

Continued from page 27

as the defense forced three interceptions.

While the Lions ran away with the playoff opener, the secondround game came down to the wire. It was the beginning of a trend.

Covington made the trip down to Houma to battle H.L. Bourgeois in a game that lived up to its billing. Back in those days, if a game was tied at the end of regulation, the winner was decided by the team that gained the most first downs in regulation. There was no overtime, just a check of the stat book. It seems strange by today’s standards, but the Lions won a game on first downs in 1975, as well.

Covington spotted the Braves a 14-0 lead and battled back with two late second-quarter TDs to send the game into halftime tied at 14. That’s what the final score would be despite the Lions having three second-half scoring opportunities, only to be foiled by a fumble, an interception and a costly penalty.

Holding on to an 11-10 lead in first downs late in the fourth quarter, the Lions gained two first downs to run out the clock and advance.

Next up — Archbishop Shaw in the quarterfinals.

Covington was locked in another tight battle against the Eagles as Shaw standout quarterback John Fourcade was injured on the third offensive play of the game and didn’t return. For Covington, Joe Darby provided the only score on a 75-yard punt return, and Mark Fritscher’s extra point provided the winning margin as Shaw missed a PAT in the second quarter. The Lions survived with a 7-6 victory in Covington.

“You’ve got to be good, you’ve got to be well-coached, and you’ve got to be lucky to win a state championship,” Bruhl said.

Stretch run

After a season of dominant wins, the playoffs were testing the Lions’ resolve. The good news is that they were finding ways to win, whether it was by first downs or a missed extra

point.

Now, the Lions were headed to Shreveport to take on Woodlawn in a game that would decide one of the participants in the 1976 Class 4A state championship game. Covington was one step away from having a chance at redemption. Coach Jack Salter joked that he didn’t know who was going to stay in Covington to watch the town as the Lions’ faithful headed north.

It wasn’t a good start for Covington as Woodlawn raced out to a 21-0 lead midway through the second quarter, but the Lions reeled off 28 unanswered points to win.

The defense fittingly scored the final touchdown. With the score tied at 21 and Woodlawn marching down the field, Danny Underwood picked off a pass at his own 14-yard line and raced 86 yards up the Covington sideline for the gamewinning score. The Lions were back in the state championship game.

Home Sweet Home

One last game was all that stood between Covington and that elusive state championship.

The Lions dominated the regular season, and then the playoffs came around. A oncedominant Covington squad became “The Cardiac Kids” as this team just kept finding ways to win.

Now sitting at 14-0, the Lions welcomed undefeated Istrouma to Covington. The game sold out, and people were in deer stands outside the stadium to get a view in, according to Graham.

In a postseason that saw the Lions overcome their mistakes or slow starts to find a way to win, the difference in this state championship game was simple — Covington made fewer mistakes than Istrouma.

The Lions scored first on a 3-yard TD run by Frank Walker Istrouma dropped an interception that likely would have re-

sulted in a second-quarter TD and a tied game. Instead, the Lions lived to fight another day.

After Covington recovered a fumble, the Lions went on their final scoring drive. David Bode hauled in a one-handed TD catch to give the home team a 14-0 halftime lead.

Covington held on, and Tripp Holloway’s tackle for an 18yard loss in the final moment sealed the victory

At 9:30 p.m. on Dec. 17, 1976, the Lions were state champions for the first and only time in football.

Special year

Covington football competed in two more state championship games after their magical 15-0 season. In 1981, the Lions fell to John Ehret, 32-13, in the Superdome. Six years later, Covington was back in the state title game again, but this time, Shaw played the role of spoiler by grinding out a 14-6 victory

With the championship games now at the Superdome, it would

be hard to recreate the excitement of that special run that culminated with the 1976 title.

“It was really amazing,” Holloway said. “Covington shut down early, and there was blue and gold everywhere. Back in those days, there was St. Paul’s, Covington High and Mandeville High, and that was it (in west St. Tammany.) It gave us unity as a community. It was really special.”

Holloway only lost two games during his three years as a starter — in the playoffs in 1974 and the state championship in 1975. He has spent the past 41 years as a teacher, and currently, he teaches bible and American history at Northlake Christian.

Bruhl, who played at LSU, moved back to Folsom after college and still lives there today

Graham, who coached the Lions from 2002-07, is still a regular attendee at Covington football games that are now played at the new stadium that bears

PROVIDED PHOTO

Covington’s Arno Wallace pressures the H.L. Bourgeois quarterback during a regional round playoff game in Houma in 1976.

his former coach’s name.

“We all believed in one another, and we grew up playing Little League together,” Graham said about the championship team. “Most of our parents belonged to the athletic association. Everyone worked in the community, and the entire community was on board. It was really an exciting time. I’m serious when I say the town shut down for football on Friday nights.”

Graham continues that Covington tradition with his grandson, Brady Graham, who wears his No. 10 and punts for the 2025 Lions.

Assistant coach Travis Hunt is the son of 1976 center Woody Hunt, and Travis’ son is also playing this year. The connections are endless

As Covington football turns 100, you can still see Graham and Hunt and Fritscher and tackle Dale Roark sitting on the track on Friday nights in Jack Salter Stadium. They are joined by a few other teammates from time to time, but the most important thing is that they are still together, watching new generations develop a love for Covington football.

Contact Joseph Halm at jhalm@sttammanyfarmer. net.

PROVIDED PHOTO

Covington football players line up before a game during the 1976 state championship season.

Jimmy Chanzy ready to lead Salmen offense

BY JOSEPH HALM Staff writer

Salmen running back Jimmy Chanzy is a soft-spoken person.

The senior lets his play on the field do the talking, and it said volumes last season. Chanzy rushed for 1,164 yards and 12 TDs on 201 carries last year.

He’s the parish’s leading returning rusher, and he’s ready to write his final chapter.

“Jimmy runs violently, and he’s very heavy behind his pads,” Salmen coach Eric Chuter said. “He’s developing some vision now, too. Jimmy doesn’t shy away from contact. He’s a downhill runner.”

The 6-foot, 185-pound Chanzy started last season at linebacker before a Week 2 switch to RB ignited the Salmen offense.

“I’ve been playing running back my whole life,” Chanzy said. “But playing linebacker last year gave me another view of the field. I just had to learn to stay patient. Really, my success is because of my line. My team needed me to play running back, so I stepped up, but I couldn’t do it without my linemen.”

Chanzy’s experience will be key for a Salmen offense breaking in a new quarterback and four new offensive linemen.

“I think we improved on chemistry this summer because last year, I don’t think we had a lot of chemistry,” Chanzy said. “I feel like we’re more disciplined. I feel like we all hold each other accountable for what we need to do.”

Junior Da’John Howard (6-2, 165) takes over at quarterback after starting at free safety as a sophomore.

“It’s definitely been a change switching sides of the ball, but playing free safety has helped me know the defensive coverage,” Howard said. “I can look at the defense and read it more effectively.”

Chanzy said Howard is growing into the starting QB role.

“He came in at quarterback, and he was already used to us,” Chanzy said. “He was with us in practice because he played a little quarterback last year I just looked at it as I’ve got to help him with the little things. He’s been improving every day.”

While Howard grows into the offense, Chanzy and the team’s offensive line will need to dictate the pace.

“I’m very, very excited about our offensive line,” Chuter said. “I think we’ll be a little undersized, but we’ll be a lot more aggressive. It has already shown in practice.”

Senior lineman Chris Newman agreed: “We’re getting better We still have a lot of stuff to work on, but we’re improving. We’re a solid runblocking team, so we just need to work on pass blocking to be successful.”

Defensive strength

While the offensive line is relatively new, the defensive line returns all three starters.

“We have people on the defensive line who know how to do everything since we played last year,” said senior Joshua

ä See SALMEN, page 32

Salmen senior running back Jimmy Chanzy returns after rushing for 1,164 yards and 12 TDs in 2024.

PHOTO BY MATT DOBBINS

Salmen football 2025

SALMEN SPARTANS 2025 VITALS

COACH: Eric Chuter (eighth season at Salmen, 35-39; 11th overall with three seasons at Hannan, 45-58)

OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR: Chuter

OFFENSE RUN: Multiple

DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR: Rory Bell

DEFENSE RUN: 3-4

PROJECTED STARTERS

* indicates returning starter

OFFENSE (5 RETURNING STARTERS): QB Da’John Howard, Jr.; RB *Jimmy Chanzy, Sr.; RB Camron Robinson, Sr., or Kordé Harris, Jr.; WR *Kashius Sampson, Sr.; WR *Terrance Mitchell, Sr.; WR Rey’sean Coleman, Jr., or Amaz

Aslam, Sr.; TE *Ahman Bush, Sr., or Savolia Calahan, Jr.; LT *Ronald Coleman, Sr.; LG Chris Newman, Sr.; C Kermit Brower, Jr.; RG Justin Amador, Sr.; RT Ja’mara Shuler, Sr.

DEFENSE (5 RETURNING STARTERS): DL *Chris Newman, Sr.; DL *Reginald Bouie, Jr.; DL *Joshua Loydrake, Sr.; LB Savolia Calahan, Jr.; LB Ahman Bush, Sr.; LB Ellis Knight, Sr.; DB *Camron Robinson, Sr.; DB Jace Gaines, Sr.; DB *Tyree Burton, Sr.; DB Kevin Smiles, Jr.; DB Kordé Harris, Jr.

SPECIAL TEAMS: PK Kyrin Goins, Jr, or Isaac Plinski, Jr.; P Issac Plinski, Jr.; LS *Ahman Bush, Jr.; RET Kordé Harris, Jr, or Camron Robinson, Sr., or Jimmy Chanzy, Sr., or Jace Gaines, Sr.

SCHEDULE

All games on a Friday at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted All District 7-5Agamesnotatedwithanasterisk.

SEPT. 5, Mandeville (A); SEPT. 12, East Ascension (A); SEPT. 19, Bogalusa (A); SEPT. 26, Liberty (H); OCT. 2 (THU.), Lakeshore (H); OCT. 10, *Northshore (H); OCT. 17, *Fontainebleau (A); OCT. 24, *Slidell (A); OCT. 31, Hammond (A); NOV. 7, *Chalmette (H).

TOUGHEST GAMES: at Mandeville (Week 1); vs. Lakeshore (Week 5); vs. Chalmette (Week 10).

2024 FLASHBACK

2024 RECORD: 5-6, 3-1 District 7-5A (second place), 26th seed in D-I nonselect playoffs; lost to (7) Northwood-Shreveport, 54-27 (first round).

LOOK AHEAD TO 2025

A year ago, Salmen was preparing for the jump in physicality to Class 5A football. This summer, the Spartans are putting in the traditional conditioning work, but there has been a quiet consistency in their mental approach that is music to coach Eric Chuter’s ears. Salmen players didn’t like the way the 2024 season with three straight losses, so it has fueled the offseason.

Offensively, the Spartans will need to replace a ton of offense. Gone is quarterback Markel Keyes, who racked up 1,643 yards of total offense and 20 TDs. Junior Da’John Howard will step up under center. Also gone is a trio of wide receivers in Tayshawn Scott, A’san Johnson and Grayson O’Shaughnessy, who combined for 96 catches, 1,373 yards and 15 TDs. That’s a lot of production to replace, but returning receivers Terrance Mitchell and Kashius Sampson highlight a talented group ready to take their place.

Defensively, the biggest question mark is at linebacker after the graduation of top tacklers Wylee Jackson (84 tackles, 5 TFLs) and Michael Welch (67 tackles, 3 TFLs). Seniors Ahman Bush (5-10, 180) and Ellis Knight (5-9, 220) will be first-year starters, but they have four years in the program. Junior Savolia Calahan (6-0, 185) will round out the position. Chuter credited that group for making significant progress in the offseason.

Last year, the Spartans had high hopes of earning a second straight district title before last-season struggles derailed those plans. They seem like a more mature team for the experience. That’s important because their earlyseason schedule is tough, but any team with Jimmy Chanzy in the backfield has a chance against anyone. The key for Salmen will be to survive that early schedule and peak at the right time. They get defending district champion Chalmette at home in Week 10, so that could make all the difference if they can get to that point with a chance at the district crown.

PROJECTED FINISH: 7-5 overall, 3-1 in District 7-5A. 12-16 seed in D-I nonselect playoffs, win at home in the first round, lose on road in the second round.

2024 REGULAR-SEASON RESULTS: 1, Mandeville, L 42-14 (0-1); 2, East Ascension, L 38-15 (0-2); 3, Bogalusa, W 50-8 (1-2); 4, Liberty, W 34-28 (2-2); 5, Lakeshore, L 31-26 (2-3); 6, Northshore, W 18-14 (3-3); 7, Fontainebleau, W 42-14 (4-3); 8, Slidell, W 31-14 (5-3); 9, Hammond, L 19-14 (5-4); 10, Chalmette, L 34-28 (5-5).

HALM’S PICKS: DISTRICT 7-5A PREDICTIONS

Chalmette’s experience will help them defend district title

Chalmette claimed an undefeated district crown last season as the Owls knocked off Salmen in Week 10. I would expect that game to decide the district title once again. But Fontainebleau, Northshore and Slidell are all a year older and more experienced after the teams combined for just three district wins last year. Keep reading below for details on this tight district.

1 | Chalmette

The Owls won nine games and made a trip to the quarterfinals for the first time since 1968 last season. More than half of their starters return, including nine on defense Quarterback Breez Wilson is back as well. That’s just the tip of the iceberg. The Owls are focused on advancing even deeper into the playoffs this season, and that all starts with defending their district title.

2 | Salmen

The Spartans proved they could succeed at the 5A level after they shook off an seasonopening loss to Mandeville, but they faded down the stretch. Salmen was a couple of plays away from knocking off Chalmette in Week 10 last year That’s how close they were to a district title. I think they could be close again this season, and they get the Owls at home this year. They have several starters to replace on both sides of the ball, but senior running back Jimmy Chanzy is back with a quality offensive line in front of him. That’s a recipe for success.

3 | Slidell

Joseph Halm

season, and they took some lumps because of it. But now, they are a more experienced team, so they should be improved. Junior quarterback Ricky Williams is back. Junior running back Ja’Kwan Jones is back. Wide receiver Carlos Flemings Jr. and tight end Jeremiah Birdlow are exceptional playmakers. If the offense can put up points, the Tigers will be tough. The defense should be improved as well. Slidell has a chance to surprise some teams.

4 | Northshore

The Tigers were very young last

SALMEN

Continued from page 30

Loydrake, who posted 37 tackles and 4 TFLs last year “We’ve had some guys who came in, and they’re learning everything that needs to get done. We have a lot of chemistry.”

Add in Newman, who had 39 tackles with a sack a year ago, and physically imposing junior Reginald Bouie (6-4, 205), who recorded 37 tackles and 7

TFLs last year, and one can see why Chuter is excited about his defensive front.

“We have a lot of unselfish players on this team,” Bouie said. “We want to play strong, physical, dominating and aggressive We know we can do that because we have a bunch of guys who are willing to do what they need to do to help the team win.”

The secondary is also a strength with returning starters in senior Camron Robinson (5-9, 170), who had 35 tackles last season, along with senior Tyree

Last year was a season to forget for the Panthers. Northshore was very young last season, and it showed on the field with a 1-9 season. The good news is that the team is a year older

Burton (5-10, 150), who had 24 tackles and two interceptions in 2024.

The Spartans have a challenging schedule that includes three straight road games against Mandeville, East Ascension and Bogalusa to open the season. It’s the flip side of last year, where Salmen was at home for the bulk of September

Chuter hopes his team will be ready for that test and points back to the end of the regular season last year as a teaching moment. Last season, the Spartans were 5-3 after surviving an emotional

and more experienced. The bad news is their very tough nondistrict schedule. Northshore’s first five games are against Picayune, at John Curtis, at Lakeshore, against Covington, and then back at home against Mandeville If the Panthers can grow from that gauntlet, they will be as prepared as any team for district play.

5 | Fontainebleau

The Bulldogs are coming off a second straight 3-7 season although they did win a district game for the second consecutive year. While there is a solid amount of experience coming back, the Bulldogs will play several underclassmen on both sides of the ball. That puts them at a disadvantage, but if they can stay healthy, they could get hot at the right time.

gauntlet of Northshore, homecoming against Fontainebleau and a rivalry renewed against Slidell. They won all three, but dropped their final two regular-season games by less than a score.

“I think it drained us a little bit,” Chuter said “I’ve got to do a better job of guiding us through that and being more consistent I’ve got to make sure that we don’t get too high or too low, and we go out there and compete week after week. We’ve been consistent all summer, so that’s a good sign. Now, we just have to go out and play.”

PHOTOS BY MATT DOBBINS

Salmen defensive linemen, from left, Chris Newman, Joshua Loydrake and Reginald Bouie are ready to lead the defense in 2025.

Senior receiver Terrance Mitchell

Senior lineman Ronald Coleman Senior defensive back Cam’ron Robinson

Salmen junior Da’John Howard

$25SportsPhysicals

STRIKING A BALANCE

BY MIKE PERVEL

BY MIKE PERVEL

Contributing writer

It’s not often that a one-win regular season leads to a promising ending, but that was the case for the 2024 Hannan football team.

The Hawks battled through the regular season with a 1-8 record, but a berth in the Division III select playoffs as the No. 22 seed gave them new life.

Hannan knocked off St. Michael, 2920, to earn its second playoff win in the last three years. Second-year head coach Steve Soper said that victory helped fuel the summer.

“I’ve been able to put together a solid, talented coaching staff, and our players have responded to them, moving forward without hesitation. I like where we’re at in the process of getting better and improving every day,” Soper said.

“Competing in District 7-4A presents a real challenge with every game. It’s a great district, featuring outstanding coaches, solid teams and tremendous athletes. We’ll definitely have our work cut out for us again this season, but I’m

confident we’ll be up for the task.”

Soper said the offseason focus has been on creating a more balanced team with the offense complementing the defense.

“It’s up to the offense to deliver sustained drives that generate points, while relying on the defense to make key stops. Just as important, we have to deliver on special teams if we want to become a complete ball club,” Soper said.

Hannan will be replacing several skill positions from last year’s offense, including QB Brody Smith and receivers Hayden Alonzo and Tripp Arcement.

Junior signal caller Braden Sprang (6-2, 175) steps in to guide the spread offense. Sprang played free safety last year before breaking his leg, so the junior brings some on-the-field experience to the position

“I’m healthy and definitely ready to go. It’s my turn to step up, and I’m ready to be a leader. I consider myself a smart quarterback who understands the flow of the game. I’ll be able to make quick decisions with the ball,” said Sprang.

“Coach Soper trusts me, and he’s done

a great job helping me develop. We have a similar mindset, and we’re on the same page with play calling. I’m extremely confident carrying out whatever the play call is.”

Sprang will have plenty of weapons at his disposal. Senior receiver David Chimento (6-2, 180), the grandson of running backs coach Dale Chimento, will be one of Sprang’s top targets.

“I’m a mentally tough receiver,” David Chimento said. “I play with intensity and pride myself on running good routes to get open in space. We need to play with more discipline this year.”

Junior Hunter Lay (5-10, 175) is another experienced target as he returns after catching 44 passes for 487 yards with two scores last year. The Hawks will also count on the one-two punch of junior running backs Riley Jones (576 yards rushing, 5 TDs) and Ryan Bordelon.

“We need to concentrate on taking care of our own business, controlling what we do collectively as a team,” Soper said. “I stress how all three phases of the game — offense, defense and special teams — are critical to our success.”

Balancing act

Last season, the Hannan defense gave up more than 40 points a game during the regular season. So the focus all off-season for second-year defensive coordinator Don Kelley was creating more balance, and that starts with senior leadership as five starters return.

Senior linebacker Greyson Dupre (62, 180) is one of those returning defensive starters who will also handle the punting duties.

“I want to lead by example, setting a physical tone. I see myself as an intelligent player, reading the play and finishing to the ball. I need to do my part to ensure everybody is ready to play fast,” Dupre said.

“It’s my job to get us lined up correctly, stressing we all need to rally to the ball. I like our defensive returners. We interact really well with each other. I always make the most of every opportunity when I’m on the field.”

Senior defensive back Keaton Wheeler (5-10, 160) also returns to

PHOTO

Hannan junior quarterback Braden Sprang, right, and senior receiver David Chimento will be key parts of the offense in 2025.

help solidify the secondary.

“Our main goal is to improve our overall defense,” Wheeler said. “We gave up way too many points last year, and we weren’t very good at forcing turnovers. We must emphasize getting more turnovers and giving the ball back to our offense. If we can improve our pass rush, it could lead to generating more turnovers, resulting in points.”

Junior defensive back Carson Wallace is also back and gives the Hawks speed in the secondary after running the 100 meters in 11.79 seconds during the track season.

“We’ve had great summer workouts, pushing each other to get better. Everyone has bought in, while motivating each other to succeed. We have to roll up our sleeves, play hard and stay motivated, especially if things aren’t going our way,” Wallace said.

“I want to be quicker out of breaks, closing faster to the receiver, without hesitation. I’m working on being tighter in press coverage, not giving receivers too much space We have good coaches, who motivate us to keep improving.”

Hannan football 2025at a glance

Hawks hope playoff win was a sign of things to come

HANNAN HAWKS 2025 VITALS

COACH: Steve Soper (second season as head coach, 2-9, ninth at school)

OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR: Soper

OFFENSE RUN: Spread

DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR: Don Kelley

DEFENSE RUN: Multiple

PROJECTED STARTERS

* indicates returning starter OFFENSE (8 RETURNING STARTERS): QB

Braden Sprang, Jr.; RB *Riley Jones, Jr.; WR *David Chimento, Sr.; WR *Hunter Lay, Jr.; WR Conner Legardeur, Sr.; WR Graesyn Broussard, Soph., or Carter Speerly, Jr.; OL *Dorian Francis, Sr.; OL *Jude Monier, Soph.; OL *Elijah Williamson, Sr.; OL *Brennan Jarrell, Jr.; OL Max Hand, Soph DEFENSE (5 RETURNING STARTERS): DL

*Liam Benton, Jr.; DL Gabe Timmons, Jr.; DL Logan Wheat, Jr.; DL Chase Romero, Jr.; DL Collin Coggins, Soph.; LB *Greyson Dupre, Sr.; LB Evan Morales, Soph.; DB *Keaton Wheeler, Sr.; DB *Carson Wallace, Sr.; DB *Paul Hoyt, Jr.; DB Ryan Rist, Jr.; DB Cade McHughes, Jr.

SPECIAL TEAMS: PK TBD; P *Greyson

SCHEDULE

All games on a Friday at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted. All District 7-4A games notated with an asterisk.

SEPT. 5, Northlake Christian (H); SEPT. 12, Ascension Episcopal (A); SEPT. 19, Catholic-P.C. (A); SEPT. 26, Covenant Christian (H); OCT. 3, St. Thomas Aquinas (A); OCT. 10, *Pearl River (H); OCT. 17, *Loranger (A); OCT. 24, Walter L. Cohen (H); OCT. 31, *Lakeshore (H); NOV. 7, *Franklinton (A). TOUGHEST GAMES: vs Lakeshore (Week 9); at Franklinton (Week 10).

2024 FLASHBACK

2024 RECORD: 2-9, 0-4 District 7-4A (last place), 22th seed in Division III select playoffs; defeated No. 11 St. Michael, 29-20 (first round); lost to No. 6 Vandebilt Catholic, 49-9 (second round).

2024 REGULAR-SEASON RESULTS: 1, Northlake Christian, L 49-7 (0-1); 2, Ascension Episcopal, L 31-7 (0-2); 3, Catholic-PC, L 44-27 (0-3); 4, Covenant Christian, L 45-3

(0-4); 5, St. Thomas Aquinas, W 46-7 (1-4); 6, Pearl River, L 48-30 (1-5); 7, Loranger, L 50-49 (1-6); 8, OPEN; 9, Lakeshore, L 48-14 (1-7); 10, Franklinton, L 49-28 (1-8).

LOOK AHEAD TO 2025

One could not have scripted a better ending to Hannan’s 2024 season than a road playoff win. It was a huge momentum boost in a season full of adversity Now, the Hawks will need to figure out a way to build on that momentum. The good news is that there are a lot of pieces in place to do that.

Hannan will have to replace several skill position starters on offense including at quarterback and the top two receiver spots. The good news is that junior quarterback Braden Sprang saw action in four games last year. His starting running back returns in junior Riley Jones (5-8, 155), and he has two receivers in Hunter Lay (5-11, 170) and senior David Chimento, who saw plenty of action last year. The biggest plus on offense might be the offense line that returns all five starters in seniors Elijah Williamson (5-8, 215) and Dorian Francis (6-2, 227), sophomores Max Hand (6-3, 280) and Jude Monier (5-11,

210) and junior Brennan Jarrell (5-7, 205). Defensively, the Hawks simply have to be better, and they seemingly have the tools to do that with experience returning at every level. Junior Liam Benton is back to anchor the defensive line after recording 16 tackles as a sophomore. Senior Greyson Dupre, who led the Hawks with 112 tackles and 6 TFLs, returns at linebacker. The secondary has three returning starters including junior safety Paul Hoyt (5-9, 152), who had 82 tackles last year. That experience will be important. Last season, the Hawks snapped a 15-game losing streak with a win over St. Thomas Aquinas in Week 5, and then they tasted playoff success for the second time in the last three years. Those are all good signs, but now, they have to stack some wins together before they start district play. Is that a possibility? Yes, but it will be difficult. If the offense can control the game a little bit better, and the defense can create a few turnovers, the Hawks could surprise some teams in 2025.

PROJECTED FINISH: 4-6 overall, 1-3 in District 7-4A. 21-24 seed in the Division III select playoffs; lose in the first round on the road.

PHOTO BY MATT DOBBINS

Hannan junior Riley Jones returns after averaging over 5 yards per carry last season.

Senior cornerback Keaton Wheeler

Senior cornerback Carson Wallace

Senior linebacker Greyson Dupre

PHOTO BY BOBBY GILBOY

Hannan junior Hunter Lay returns at wide receiver after racking up nearly 500 yards last season.

Dupre, Sr.; RET Hunter Lay, Jr.

ON THE RUN

Cusachs, Gros highlight talented senior class at Lakeshore

BY JOSEPH HALM Staff writer

Lakeshore seniors Dylan Cusachs and Oudrey Gros might be the perfect embodiment of their coach Brent Indest.

As the long-time coach enters his fourth season at the Coliseum, the Titans are officially his team, and Cusachs and Gros are two examples of that

“This offseason has been fun,” Indest said. “Even though we are in the fourth year, we are in the second year of our relatively new system. Even though it is Wing-T principles, it’s the Gun-T now. We’re just ready to expand right now on what we’ve done. We’re going to be a lot more multi-formational. We’ll be able to do a lot more.”

Cusachs and Gros both started as freshmen and have never looked back. The duo played both ways last year and will do so again this season. On offense, Gros racked up 1,039 yards and 21 TDs on 214 carries, while Cusachs rushed for 428 yards and 8 TDs on 73 carries.

Both are excited about the possibilities as the Gun-T enters its second season

“It has really changed how other teams look at us. It’s opened up way more plays and opportunities on offense. On defense, we have gotten way more complex, and our coaching staff has grown,” Cusachs said.

“My freshman year, I was really confused on offense I’m not going to lie. I kind of just got thrown in, but I’ve gotten better over the years because we keep the same plays, but we evolve them. That has helped a lot. I see the freshman coming in now, and I know exactly how they feel.”

That improvement has been a hallmark of Indest’s time at Lakeshore, as the Titans will once again rely on several athletes playing on offense and

defense.

“Everyone has been focused,” said senior running back Shawn Brown (534 yards rushing, 4 TDs). “We have a lot of guys playing on both sides of the ball since we have the talent and numbers. We’re just focused on efficiency. On offense, we lost some linemen, but the new guys are stepping up. We have a perfect running back situation with me, Dylan Cusachs and Oudrey Gros. We’re excited about the season.”

Junior Brody Loudermilk is taking over at quarterback for Beau Bernard. Loudermilk saw some action last year, scoring 5 TDs and averaging nearly 5 yards per carry

“We have worked a lot on the passing game because we have to get (Kyle) Gegenheimer involved,” Indest said. “He’s a special guy, so we have to figure out different ways of getting him the ball. For us to do that, we’ve got to be able to throw it to him. Loudermilk has put in a lot of work on his throwing, and it’s paying off.”

Cusachs agreed: “We have basically the same team as last year, so I have no doubt in my mind that we can go farther. We have a new quarterback, but he is a really good runner, so that will open up a lot of opportunities. We have a really complete offense.”

Family feel

The defense is returning eight starters, as cornerbacks coach Beau Briner is now the defensive coordinator. That experience is key

“We’re older on defense this year, so I’m excited to get the season started,” senior safety Caleb Larson said. “All of our safeties are seniors, so we’re all experienced. Coach Beau (Briner) has implemented a lot of new stuff that complements the players that we have. We’re just building on what we already did, so it should be fun.”

PHOTO BY HERB GOMEZ

Lakeshore seniors, from left, Oudrey Gros, Shawn Brown and Dylan Cusachs return to lead the Titans’ running game.

Lakeshore football 2025at a glance

LAKESHORE TITANS 2025 VITALS

COACH: Brent Indest (fourth season at Lakeshore, 24-12; 27th season overall with stops at Abbeville, Crowley, Kaplan and Catholic-New Iberia, 211-96)

OFFENSIVE COORDINATORS: Indest and Hunter Bonvillain

OFFENSE RUN: Gun-T

DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR: Beau Briner

DEFENSE RUN: 3-4

PROJECTED STARTERS

* indicates returning starter OFFENSE (6 RETURNING STARTERS): QB Brody Loudermilk, Jr.; RB *Shawn Brown, Sr.; WB *Oudrey Gros, Sr.; SLOT *Dylan Cusachs, Sr.; SE *Kyle Gegenheimer, Sr.; TE Cohen Trosclair, Sr.; OT Ross Guzman, Jr.; OG *Luke Kogue, Jr.; C Josh Dalton, Sr.; OG Benjamin Sandman, Jr.; OT *Bryce Stigler, Sr. DEFENSE (8 RETURNING STARTERS): DE Santiago Mendieta, Soph.; NG *Issiah Koontz, Sr.; DE *Dayton McGee, Jr.; WLB *Oudrey Gros, Sr.; MLB *Landon Hol-

lingshead, Jr.; SLB Ethan Galiano, Sr.; SS *Cade Stevens, Sr.; ROVER *Caleb Larson, Sr.; FS *Dylan Cusachs, Sr.; CB *Kyle Gegenheimer, Sr.; DB Cole Bodie, Sr.

SPECIAL TEAMS: PK Jackson Schemmel, Jr.; P Kyle Gegenheimer, Sr.; LS Landon Hollingshead, Sr.; RET *Kyle Gegenheimer, Sr., or *Dylan Cusachs, Sr.

SCHEDULE

All games on a Friday at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted All District 7-4A games notated with an asterisk. SEPT. 5, Fontainebleau (H); SEPT. 12, Chalmette (A); SEPT. 19, Northshore (H); SEPT. 26, Northlake Christian (A); OCT. 2 (THU.), Salmen (A); OCT. 10, *Franklinton (H); OCT. 17, *Pearl River (A); OCT. 24, *Loranger (H); OCT. 31, *Hannan (A); NOV. 6 (THU.), Hahnville (H).

TOUGHEST GAMES: vs Franklinton (Week 6); vs. Hahnville (Week 10).

2024 FLASHBACK

2024 RECORD: 9-4, 2-2 District

7-4A (tied for second place). 8th seed in D-II nonselect playoffs; defeated (25) Rayne, 48-13 (first round); beat (9) Iota, 17-10 (second round); lost to (1) Franklinton, 41-40 (quarterfinals).

2024 REGULAR-SEASON RESULTS: 1, Fontainebleau, W 34-14 (1-0); 2, Chalmette, W 45-21 (2-0); 3, Northshore, W 41-10 (3-0); 4, Northlake Christian, W 43-16 (4-0); 5, Salmen, W 31-26 (5-0); 6, Franklinton, L 35-28 (5-1); 7, Pearl River, W 42-21 (6-1); 8, Loranger, L 28-21 (6-2); 9, Hannan, W 48-14 (7-2); 10, Hahnville, L 28-14 (7-3).

LOOK AHEAD TO 2025

After falling to Franklinton by a single point on the road in the quarterfinals, the Titans might have the best path to the Dome of any team in the parish. Simply put, the Titans should be very good this season, and that’s in large part to an experienced senior class.

Lakeshore returns a talented trio of running backs in seniors Dylan Cusachs, Shawn Brown and Oudrey Gros, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Senior receiver Kyle Gegenheimer is back

senior Issiah Koontz, right, records a tackle for a loss during the Titans’ intrasquad scrimmage.

after racking up 743 yards and 10 TDs last year. Tight end Cohen Trosclair will provide a downfield threat at that position. And while the offensive line is relatively new, they have experience after getting playing time last year due to injuries. First-year quarterback Brody Loudermilk should be solid, so the Titans should be set on offense.

Defensively, three-year starter Issiah Kontz leads the Titans on the line along with junior Dayton Magee. Gros and Cusachs return as two-way players. Junior Landon Hollingshead is back at linebacker after recording 40 tackles last year. Gegenheimer will be a key cover corner, who will also play a majority of the offensive snaps.

The key for Lakeshore is to avoid injuries at key positions. While they have a little more depth, all of their two-way players are key to them getting to the next level. Everyone playing both ways has experience, so it’s nothing new for the Titans. I The biggest thing for Lakeshore may be just how multiple they can be on offense. Loudermilk is familiar with the system, so he should take a step forward this season. As long as Lakeshore stays relatively healthy, the sky is the limit.

PROJECTED FINISH: 12-2 overall, 3-1 in District 7-4A. 1-4 seed in D-II nonselect playoffs; make a run to the Superdome for the second time in school history.

PHOTO BY HERB GOMEZ Lakeshore

Pearl River coach Jerry Leonard talks with his team during the Rebels’ spring game against Assumption on May 15.

STAFF PHOTOS

BY JOSEPH HALM

... It’s a different way of doing things, and I think everyone has adapted well. From a player standpoint, it’s been a really productive summer. ...

JERRY LEONARD, Pearl River coach

WELCOME BACK, COACH

After 7-year break from coaching, Leonard returns to the sidelines

BY JOSEPH HALM Staff writer

Pearl River coach Jerry Leonard looks right at home in the Rebels’ fieldhouse.

After a seven-year coaching hiatus, Leonard looks to take the Rebels’ program to the next level.

“Whenever you get a new guy in with a new staff, there are going to be some changes,” Leonard said. “It’s a different way of doing things, and I think everyone has adapted well. From a player standpoint, it’s been a really productive summer We still have a long way to go, but I’m pleased with where we are.”

Those are high words of praise from the fiery coach, and the players feel the same way

“The transition has been good,” said senior defensive lineman and three-year starter Dakota Johnson. “I like this defense better because we’re a lot more physical, and he explains a lot more. I understand what we’re doing and why we’re doing it. I like how the defense is coming along. We just need to stay focused.”

Senior quarterback Brayden Hutchison (6-2, 170) agreed: “It’s a lot of new stuff, but it’s a lot of great stuff. Coach Leonard is a great head coach. He’s a different coach. He’s not like

anything that I’ve seen before. I love it, through. I like the intensity He wants us to win.”

Hutchison will be a big part of the offense, as Leonard said the two-year starter has taken on an expanded leadership role. Long-time assistant Mike Bourg will be the new offensive coordinator

“It’s a huge plus to have (Hutchison) back,” Leonard said. “He’s a good leader. He works hard. He’s eager to learn, and he doesn’t shy away from competition. Those are all good qualities. He was on board with everything we were doing since Day 1. That set the tone for everyone else.”

Pearl River football 2025 at a glance

PEARL RIVER REBELS

2025 VITALS

COACH: Jerry Leonard (first season at Pearl River; 17th season overall including 16 at Salmen, 100-75)

OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR: Mike Bourg

OFFENSE RUN: Multiple

DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR: Leonard

DEFENSE RUN: 3-4

PROJECTED

STARTERS

* indicates returning starter

OFFENSE (5 RETURNING STARTERS): QB *Brayden Hutchison, Sr.; RB Gage Durand, Sr.; RB Andrew Sikes, Jr.; WR Angel Perez, Jr.; WR Kaysen McGinnis, Sr.; WR *Davyn Keicher, Jr.; TE Dakota Johnson, Sr.; OL *Jace Zeringue, Jr.; OL *Hayden Mitchell, Sr.; OL *Jude Ohler, Jr.; OL Jeff Ohler, Jr.; OL Merrick Murphy, Jr.

DEFENSE (5 RETURNING STARTERS): DL *Payton Penton, Sr.; DL *Dakota Johnson, Sr.; DL Andrew Barron, Soph., or Darren Harrison, Jr.; LB *Charlie Rickoll, Jr.; LB Ethan Bowman, Jr.; LB Lee Holloway, Jr.; LB *James Lee, Jr.; DB *Javantae Rogers, Sr.; DB Randall Bannister, Sr.; DB Ja’ty Maryland, Soph.; DB Dillon Painter, Soph., or Kendrick Lee, Fr.

SPECIAL TEAMS: PK Gage Durand, Sr.; P Brayden Hutchison, Sr.; RET Dawson Dreaux, Soph., or Ryan Dean, Soph.

SCHEDULE

All games on a Friday at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted All District 7-4A games notated with an asterisk.

SEPT. 5, St. Martin’s (A); SEPT. 12, South Lafourche (A); SEPT. 19, OPEN; SEPT. 26, Pine (H); OCT. 2 (THU.), Chalmette (A); OCT. 10, *Hannan (A); OCT. 17, *Lakeshore (H); OCT. 24, *Franklinton (A);

OCT. 30 (THU.), PJP II (H); NOV. 7, *Loranger (H).

TOUGHEST GAMES: vs. Lakeshore (Week 7); at Franklinton (Week 8).

2024 FLASHBACK

2024 RECORD: 5-5, 2-2 District 7-4A (tied for second), 15th seed in D-II nonselect playoffs; lost to (18) Cecilia, 50-29 (first round).

2024 REGULAR-SEASON RESULTS: 1, St. Martin’s, L 38-34 (0-1); 2, South Lafourche, W 64-22 (1-1); 3, OPEN; 4, Pine, L 28-20 (1-2); 5, Chalmette, W 14-7 (2-2); 6, Hannan, W 48-30 (3-2); 7, Lakeshore, L 42-21 (3-3); 8, Franklinton, L 49-40 (3-4); 9, PJP II, W 42-21 (4-4); 10, Loranger, W 21-19 (5-4).

LOOK AHEAD TO 2025

Jerry Leonard is a no-nonsense coach, so he’s not going to mince words with his players. It is a good sign that Leonard has

repeated over and over again in the offseason that he has been pleased with his team’s effort level even as some inevitable growing pains have popped up.

“For the most part, the kids have bought in, so that’s a huge building block to what we’re trying to do,” Leonard said. “The growth is happening at a nice, steady, consistent pace, and I think that goes back to the fact that the effort has been there.”

Those are high words from an experienced coach in his first season.

Offensively, senior Brayden Hutchison is back at quarterback, and senior Gage Durand has experience at running back. Those are two big pieces, but perhaps the biggest (pun intended) piece is the offensive line. Three starters return including senior Hayden Mitchell (6-2, 305) and juniors Jace Zeringue (6-0, 255) and Jude Ohler (5-10, 280). That experience up front will be

Senior Gage Durand (6-2, 230) will assume a lead role in the backfield after starting at defensive line last year.

“I feel like this season will be one of the best of my high school career We have everybody together this year We have a better connection this year and a lot more leadership. Everybody is starting to click,” Durand said.

“Coach Bourg is doing a good job of getting us to where we need to be. Brayden (Hutchison) is starting to click with all the receivers. Everything is starting to come together.”

ä See PEARL RIVER, page 50

very important. The defense has experience at all three levels.

Senior Payton Penton (6-1, 220) anchors the defensive line while juniors Charlie Rickoll (5-11, 210) and Ethan Bowman (6-1, 205) will guide the linebackers. Senior Javantae Rogers (5-11, 165) returns to anchor an experienced secondary.

There is little doubt that the Rebels will be a physically tough football team this season. Leonard hasw assembled a quality staff, and you can see his plan taking shape. Step 2 for Leonard is to make sure the Rebels are mentally tough as well. Pearl River has had some success in the recent past, and that should continue this season despite the adversity that always comes with changing coaching staffs.

PROJECTED FINISH: 6-4 overall, 2-2 in District 7-4A. 13-16 seed in the D-II nonselect playoffs; win a close home playoff game and lose on the road in the second round.

Northlake seniors ready to write final chapter

BY JOSEPH HALM Staff writer

Northlake Christian coach James Willis can’t help but smile when he thinks about his skill players.

The Wolverines are stacked with skill players led by senior running back Kameron Casnave and senior wide receivers Jordan Willis (6-2, 185) and Charlie Gilmore (6-2, 190).

“It is a blessing,” coach Willis said. “For the last three years, we knew where we stood skill set-wise because we’ve had those guys. Now, the offensive line could be at the same level, if not maybe better, so that is really promising.”

That’s right, coach Willis believes the Wolverines, who averaged 33 points per game last year, can be even better in 2025. It’s a scary thought.

“I’ve seen a lot of growth in the team over the summer,” said Jordan Willis, the son of James Willis and one of the Wolverines’ leading receivers. “On the field, I’ve seen a lot of growth in our football IQ. We’re stronger as a team. There has been a lot of progress. Offensively, I think we’re going to be really good. We figured out how versatile we can be.”

The standard has been Casnave (6-1, 225), who rushed for over 1,000 yards last season.

He’s been the Wolverines’ bell cow since he was a freshman. Casnave, who has a Millsaps offer, said the whole team is ready to step up this season.

“A lot of young guys are learning pretty fast, so everyone should be prepared to get in the game,” Casnave said. “The whole senior class has been playing since the seventh grade, so we’ve been maturing and getting stronger together. That has made us really close. We’re ready to show what we can do as a team. I’m excited for that.”

While the skill players grab the headlines, it’s the Wolverines’ offensive line coach Willis said could be the difference maker

“I’m most pleased with the offensive line this summer. We’ve had a good run of having some size on the lines. I don’t have as many as I’ve had before, but the experience and the skill set are probably the best we’ve had since I’ve been here,” coach Willis said.

Seniors Wyatt Perritt (6-3, 285) and Landen Luparello (6-5, 270) are two returning starters, along with senior Gavin Angelo (6-0, 260).

The biggest question on offense is who will take over for quarterback Luke Leblanc. It’s currently an open competition between two seniors — St. Stanislaus transfer Sam Grant or Hannan transfer Braden Shultz.

Senior lineman Landen Luparello

Senior lineman Wyatt Perritt

PHOTO BY BOBBY GILBOY

Northlake Christian running back Kameron Casnave is back for his senior season.

Senior lineman Gavin Angelo

l

“We have a lot of positions open,” Willis said.

“I’m keeping quarterback open right now. I’m hoping it goes up until Week 0 to see who the guy is.”

Impact players

Many of the same names that will be called on offense will also be contributors on defense.

Jordan Willis and Gilmore can be versatile in the secondary as both can play cornerback or safety depending on the matchup.

“I like being all over the field defensively,” Gilmore said.

Senior Carter Hutchinson is another coverage option in a deep secondary, while senior Trace Crane (6-0, 200) returns at linebacker.

“The defense is very promising because I’ve seen the growth in the kids. I think the defensive line has a chance to be pretty good. We’re going to miss Lee Dauterive up front. I think we’ll be pretty multiple because we want to get the best guys on the field,” Coach Willis said.

tion to do what they’re good at.”

“I’m always trying to find the impact players and put them in places to make plays. It only takes a couple of negative plays to mess up an offensive flow I’m going to put our guys in a posi-

The reason for that optimism is that all four starters are back up front, including seniors Owen Ehrhardt, Kaden Gill and Drake Orazio along with junior Leonard Tridico.

Coach Willis said that Gill and Ehrhardt have the ability to drop in coverage if needed. Casnave will also likely play some snaps at linebacker to help uti-

lize his size and speed.

“I think where we have the most depth is those linebackertype bodies,” coach Willis said. “Kam deserves to play in college, and I need to ensure that I’m displaying all of his skills. He’s a good guy to rush off the

edge because he’s hard to block.

Sideline to sideline, he and Trace (Crane) can cover the field.”

While the versatility of his standout players is a plus, Coach Willis added that avoiding the injury bug will be key

“This year, it’s more important

Northlake football 2025 at a glance

NORTHLAKE CHRISTIAN WOLVERINES 2025 VITALS

COACH: James Willis (seventh season, 36-26)

OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR: JD Dunaway

OFFENSE RUN: Multiple

DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR: Willis

DEFENSE RUN: Multiple

PROJECTED STARTERS

* indicates returning starter

OFFENSE (7 RETURNING STARTERS): QB

Sam Grant, Sr., or Braden Shultz, Sr.; RB

*Kameron Casnave, Sr.; RB *Jordan Willis, Sr.; WR *Charlie Gilmore; Sr.; WR Carter Hutchinson, Sr.; WR Max Gray, Jr.; OL *Landen Luparello, Sr.; OL *Gavin Angelo, Sr.; OL Caleb Weixel, Sr., or Leonard Tridico, Jr.; OL *Drake Orazio, Sr.; OL *Wyatt Perritt, Sr.

DEFENSE (8 RETURNING STARTERS): DE *Kaden Gill, Sr.; DT *Leonard Tridico, Jr.; DT *Drake Orazio, Sr.; DE *Owen Ehrhardt, Sr.; LB *Trace Crane, Sr.; LB Blake Drury, Sr.; LB Solomon Gianelloni, Sr.; DB *Carter Hutchinson, Sr.; DB Chaz Gill, Soph., or

Max Gray, Jr.; S *Charlie Gilmore, Sr.; S *Jordan Willis, Sr.

SPECIAL TEAMS: PK Braden Finklea, Sr.; P Trace Crane, Sr.; RET Jordan Willis, Sr.; or Max Gray, Jr., or Kameron Casnave, Sr.

SCHEDULE

All games are on a Friday at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted All District 9-2A games are notated with an asterisk.

SEPT. 5, Hannan (A); SEPT. 11 (THU.), Episcopal (A); SEPT. 19, OPEN; SEPT. 26, Lakeshore (H); OCT. 3, Breaux Bridge (A); OCT. 10, Kenner Discovery (H); OCT. 16 (THU.), *Pope John Paul II (A); OCT. 24, *St. Thomas Aquinas (H); OCT. 31, *St. Helena (A); NOV. 7, *Independence (H). TOUGHEST GAMES: at Episcopal (Week 2); vs. Lakeshore (Week 4); at PJP II (Week 7).

2024 FLASHBACK

2024 RECORD: 8-3 overall, 4-0 District 9-2A (first place). 10th seed in Division III select playoffs; defeated No. 23 St. Louis, 48-16 (first round); lost to No. 7 CatholicNI, 59-22 (second round).

2024 REGULAR-SEASON RESULTS: 1, Hannan, W 49-7 (1-0); 2, Episcopal, L 31-16 (1-1); 3, OPEN; 4, Lakeshore, L 43-16 (1-2); 5, Breaux Bridge, W 28-7 (2-2); 6, Kenner Discovery, W 43-0 (3-2); 7, PJP II, W 27-21 (4-2); 8, St. Thomas Aquinas, W 46-2 (5-2); 9, St. Helena, W 20-14 (6-2); 10, Independence, W 52-0 (7-2).

LOOK AHEAD TO 2025

The Wolverines have claimed two district titles in the last three years, and it seems like they are poised to make it three of four as a large senior class is full of talented players. Many of the same contributors are back from last year as 15 starters return, so the key will be staying healthy.

Offensively, Northlake has skill to burn as eight starters return, but the Wolverines’ offensive line could be the difference. The quarterback battle will be interesting to watch between St. Stanislaus transfer Sam Grant and Hannan transfer Braden Shultz, both seniors. Grant (6-3, 200) seemed poised to be the starter during spring drills, but Grant’s size means that he could contribute at other spots

than ever to stay healthy,” he said. “We have fewer numbers than in the past, so we need to stay healthy And it is also about growth because we have some new kids in the program, so how well we can bring those kids along will be very important.”

on the field. Coach Willis hopes the open competition will be bring out the best in both players. That’s a common theme this season.

Defensively, the Wolverines also return a slew of starters to a unit that held opponents to 14 points per game during the regular season with two shutouts. That’s impressive, and that unit has experience at all three levels. Coach Willis is already coming up with schemes to put his best players in the most impactful positions depending on the opponent. That’s a sign of the versatility this team has on both sides of the ball.

If Northlake is going to make a deep playoff run, this is the year. The schedule is manageable with an early bye in Week 3, which should give the new quarterback a chance settle in. The biggest stumbling block is their health. Overall, the roster is smaller than in the recent past, but the talent is there. If the Wolverines avoid the injury bug, the sky is the limit for this team.

PROJECTED FINISH: 8-3 overall, 4-0 in District 9-2A. 4-8 seed in Division III select playoffs with a run to the quarterfinals.

Senior Braden Shultz

Senior linebacker Trace Crane

Senior linebacker Blake Drury

Dominik Smith is back and ready to lead PJP II offense 100%

BY MIKE PERVEL

Contributing writer

Pope John Paul II senior running back Dominik Smith is back.

Smith suffered a seasonending knee injury in Week 2 last season that derailed what appeared to be a promising junior campaign. He ran for 1,460 yards and 16 TDs on 237 carries as a sophomore.

To say that he is the Jaguars’ workhorse would be an understatement

“I’d say I’m 100% back from my surgery,” Smith said. “It was a tough road grinding it out during physical therapy, fighting to get back as quickly as I could. All that hard work has paid off, and I’m more than ready to prove I’m back, ready to roll.”

“I’ve gained about 30 pounds to bulk up,” Smith said. “Whatever my offense and team need from me, that’s what they’ll get. It’s all about carrying out the play fake, getting the defense to bite and trying to open things up. We have good, quick backs, so we should be able to handle whatever defenses try to throw at us.”

One bright spot fr om Smith’s injury is that it opened up playing time for others. Gus Pizza (5-10, 180) stepped in last year to carry the load in Smith’s absence. A fouryear starter, Pizza ran for 819 yards, averaging 4.5 yards per carry, with 12 TDs on a teamhigh 183 carries last season.

The one-two combination of Pizza and Smith should prove extremely challenging for opposing defenses.

Smith bears a cross on his right knee to cover the surgical scar from the injury It’s a simple reminder of what the 5-foot8, 195-pound powerhouse has overcome. He ran a time of 4.69 seconds in the 40 and bulked up at the same time.

“We have a really complementary backfield group and a very strong, experienced O-line, which can get the job done,” Pizza said. “We know the offense and what it takes to be successful.”

Offensive coordinator Artie

Junior quarterback Austin Franzo

STAFF PHOTOS BY JOSEPH HALM PJP II running back Dominik Smith returns from a knee injury and is ready for a big workload in 2025.

Liuzza, who returns for his third season as offensive coordinator, said his unit has a chance to be special.

“We have faith in our offensive weapons, along with our experienced returning guys up front. It all comes down to staying healthy and being able to execute the blocks, controlling the ball,” Liuzza said

Double duty

The Jaguars have a lot of experience on the offensive and defensive lines.

PJP II returns four of its five offensive linemen, led by junior center Wyatt Higgs, who will also play nose guard on defense. Senior right guard Michael Thiel (5-11, 220), a 4-year starter, will also play defensive end.

“Nothing beats playing football, and I love playing both sides of the ball,” Thiel said. “We have a close group along the O-line with four of us coming back. We all know the offense and are comfortable executing it. We’re ready to go.”

Thiel considers himself a smart athlete who absolutely loves pulling from his right guard spot to open up holes for the backs. Left guard Jax Dean (6-0, 245), a 3-year starter, complements Thiel in the Wing-T offense.

Winning culture

Senior strong safety Aiden

Fairchild (5-9, 180), a 3-year starter, was the Jags’ fourth leading tackler with 66 com bined stops last year.

“I like playing on the outside, making physical stops and clos ing on the ball,” Fairchild said “I’m a leader in the secondary getting my teammates in the right spot. I want our guys to stay in control, and if we get beat on a play, the key is to have a short memory, focusin on the next snap.”

Fairchild will also see time at wingback this season. Pizza, who is also a member of the

See PJPII, page 44

“We’re an experienced, wellbalanced line and know what it takes to get the job done in our run-oriented offense,” Dean said. “Our backs do a great job of hitting the holes quickly, helping us execute the blocks.”

PHOTOS BY MATT DOBBIN

Pope John Paul II junior Joseph Sprinkle returns at linebacker for the Jaguars.

PJP II coach Philip Pigott

HALM’S PICKS: DISTRICT 9-2A PREDICTIONS

Northlake, PJP II will once again battle for the district crown

Northlake Christian claimed its second district title in the past three seasons last year The Wolverines did so in undefeated fashion. Northlake seems poised to do that again this year, but rival Pope John Paul II gets the Wolverines at home on a Thursday night in the Dell. That game should be electric. But the rest of the district should be improved after new coaching hires at each school. The storylines are endless in what should be an entertaining district this season.

1 | Northlake Christian

The undefeated defending district champions are the favorites to claim another district title. The Wolverines’ cup runneth over with skill players like seniors Kameron

PJP II

Continued from page 43

Jaguars’ district-winning golf team, will also play linebacker as one of several two-way players.

“Our seniors have formed a winning culture, leading this team the right way,” Pizza said. “ We have

Casnave, Jordan Willis and Charlie Gilmore. This team will be able to match most Class 2A schools in terms of speed as well as size on the offensive and defensive lines. But the Wolverines have to stay healthy because while the quality is there, the roster numbers overall are down a bit.

2 | Pope John Paul II

Joseph Halm

As coach Philip Pigott enters Year 5, the Jaguars are becoming an established program after a nine-win season and playoff victory. Last year, they fell to Northlake by six points after winning the district crown in 2023. This could be the season that PJP II takes the next step, which

super strong leadership, and we’re confident this could be the best PJP II team ever We’re dedicated, have immense pride and the team has a tremendous work ethic.”

Those words are music to coach Philip Pigott’s ears.

“It’s an enthusiastic group, and they’re ready to prove themselves. I feel it’s been our best offseason. The lifting program has been

translates to a deep playoff run. Having Dominik Smith back at running back is a game-changer And just like NCS, the Jaguars have size and talent on both lines.

3 | St. Helena

Former West Jefferson head coach DeCarlos Holmes takes over for Chris Gordon. That’s a theme this season in District 9-2A. St. Helena might be the most talented team in the district, but they ended last season with one score losses to Northlake and PJP II. You’ll hear this over and over again, but how quickly Holmes can install his system will determine if the Hawks can make a late season surge with a talented roster

exceptional. The guys really get after it in the weight room, cheering for each other,” Pigott said.

“We lost a lot of talent due to graduation, but I like our returning guys and their experience level. This has the potential to be one of my best teams, if we can stay healthy I love our team culture and how the guys fight for each other.”

4 | Independence

Long-time Loranger coach Sam Messina has returned to his alma mater to become the head football coach and athletic director. That’s a big boost to a Tigers’ program that has some talent. But Independence is coming off a one-win 2024 season, so there will be growing pains.

5 | St. Thomas Aquinas

The Falcons have a new head coach, who is familiar to many St. Tammany fans, as Boomer Nunez takes over STA also has a new offense as Nunez will switch from the Wing-T to the spread this season. How quickly the Falcons adapt to all the changes will determine how quickly they can turn things around after a one-win 2024 season.

Pope John Paul II football 2025 at a glance

POPE JOHN PAUL II

JAGUARS

2025 VITALS

COACH: Philip Pigott (fifth season, 25-18)

OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR: Artie Liuzza

OFFENSE RUN: Wing-T

DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR: Cody Mills

DEFENSE RUN: Odd Front

PROJECTED STARTERS

* indicates returning starter

OFFENSE (7 RETURNING STARTERS): QB

Austin Franzo, Jr.; RB *Gus Pizza, Sr.; RB *Aiden Fairchild, Sr.; FB *Dominik Smith, Sr.; WR Everett Gibbs, Sr.; TE Brady Deharde, Sr.; LT Wesley Geiman, Sr.; LG *Jax Dean, Sr.; C *Wyatt Higgs, Jr.; RG *Michael Thiel, Sr.; RT *Colin Kornrumpf, Sr.

DEFENSE (5 RETURNING STARTERS): DE *Michael Thiel, Sr.; NG Wyatt Higgs, Jr.; DE *Jax Dean, Sr.; LB *Joseph Sprinkle, Jr.; LB *Jack Roniger, Jr.; LB Gus Pizza, Sr.; LB Brady Deharde, Sr.; DB Eli Schoyat, Soph.; DB Everett Gibbs, Sr.; FS *Aiden Fairchild, Sr.; SS Brady Huerstel, Soph.

SPECIAL TEAMS: PK/P *Kale Oertling, Sr.;

LS, *Noah Panks, Sr.; RET Everett Gibbs, Sr., or Aiden Fairchild, Sr.

SCHEDULE

All games on a Friday at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted All District 9-2A games notated with an asterisk.

SEPT. 5, St. Patrick, Miss. (H); SEPT. 12, Varnado (A); SEPT. 19, Riverdale (A); SEPT. 26, Ben Franklin (H); OCT. 3, St. Martin’s (A); OCT. 10, *St. Thomas Aquinas (A); OCT. 16 (THU.), *Northlake Christian (H); OCT. 24, *Independence (H); OCT. 30 (THU.), Pearl River (A); NOV. 7, *St. Helena (H).

TOUGHEST GAMES: vs. Northlake Christian (Week 7); at Pearl River (Week 9).

2024 FLASHBACK

2024 RECORD: 9-3, 3-1 District 9-2A (second place). 11th seed in D-III select playoffs; defeated (22) Holy Savior Menard, 39-14 (first round); lost to (6) Episcopal, 24-7 (second round).

2024 REGULAR-SEASON RESULTS: 1, St.

Patrick High (Miss.), W 35-7 (1-0); 2, Varnado, W 46-8 (2-0); 3, Riverdale, W 49-42 (3-0); 4, Ben Franklin, W 42-7 (4-0); 5, St. Martin’s, W 28-21 (5-0); 6, St. Thomas Aquinas, W 42-14 (6-0); 7, Northlake Christian, L 27-21 (6-1); 8, Independence, W 45-20 (7-1); 9, Pearl River, L 42-21 (7-2); 10, St. Helena, W 21-20 (8-2).

LOOK AHEAD TO 2025

The Jaguars have increased their win totals over each of the last three seasons. In fact, PJP II is 17-6 over the past two years. That’s impressive, and it’s a testament to where the Jaguars are as a program. Now, the question is can they sustain it?

Offensively, senior Dominik Smith is back from injury, and senior Gus Pizza also returns. But they will be breaking in a new quarterback. Gone is Blaze Rodriguez, and his three years of experience that amounted to 1,569 yards of offense and 21 TDs last season. That’s a lot to replace. Junior QB Austin Franzo (5-8, 150) will direct the offense. “Austin has earned the job, and it’s his show. He’s very com-

petitive and will be up to the challenge of running things,” coach Philip Pigott said.

The Jaguars will use seven players on both sides of the ball, so while the offensive and defensive lines should be strengths, PJP II will need to avoid injuries especially to any of those two-way players. Defensively, juniors Joseph Sprinkle (6-3, 190) and Jack Roniger (6-0, 215) return at linebacker and have the size and speed to be a special duo.

This is Year 5 for Pigott, and the results have been impressive as the Jaguars boast a winning record during his tenure. All signs point to that continuing in 2025 as Pigott praises his players for “establishing a winning culture.” He’s not wrong because it has been a good run. The schedule is favorable, and they host district foe Northlake Christian on a Thursday night in a game that will go a long way to deciding the district title. The Jaguars will be tough once again.

PROJECTED FINISH: 8-4 overall, 3-1 in District 9-2A. 8-12 seed in the Division III select playoffs; win a first-round game at home before losing in a tight secondround game on the road.

Senior lineman Michael Thiel

Senior safety Aiden Fairchild

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FONTAINEBLEAU

Continued from page 17

impressed with how the guys have worked in the weight room over the summer, so I know we have gotten stronger as a team. That was a goal that we set after last year We didn’t hold up well

against some of the more physical teams that we played, so we made sure that we got stronger,” he said.

“We have a lot of guys who are going to be on the field for the first time, but we’re excited about it. It’s a double-edged sword when you have a bunch of young guys who are going to be playing. If you can be successful, it really sets you up for the future.”

Junior lineman Tony Berg

STAFF PHOTO BY SCOTT THRELKELD

Fontainebleau coach John Kavanaugh is entering his third season with the Bulldogs.

Junior quarterback Logan Astugue

PHOTO BY JOE TROMBATORE

Fontainebleau’s Carlin Cagnolatti makes a catch during the Mandeville 7-on-7 tournament on June 21.

Sophomore running back Sheldon Ashmore

PHOTOS BY J DIMITRI PHOTOGRAPHY

Sophomore lineman Joseph May

Fontainebleau football 2025 at a glance

Health key as young Bulldogs gain experience

FONTAINEBLEAU BULLDOGS 2025 VITALS

COACH: John Kavanaugh (third season, 6-14; eighth season overall with five at North Caddo, 39-35)

OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR: Rowland Skinner

OFFENSE RUN: Spread/Multiple

DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR: David Dragg

DEFENSE RUN: Multiple

PROJECTED STARTERS

* indicates returning starter

OFFENSE (3 RETURNING STARTERS): QB Logan Astugue, Jr., or Connor Tyson, Sr.; RB Sheldon Asmore, Soph; RB Landon Suhre, Soph.; HB Sawyer Shane, Soph.; WR Sean Childress, Jr.; WR Semaj Whittine, Sr.; WR Carlin Cagnolatti, Sr.; TE Gabe Soliman, Sr., or Carter Matherne, Jr.; OL *Joseph May, Soph.; OL *Tony Berg, Jr.; OL *Cody Leibfrtiz, Sr.; OL Hayden Cotton, Sr.; OL Kenny Primus, Jr., or Keontae Esteen, Jr., or Eli Geerstner, Soph

DEFENSE (3 RETURNING STARTERS): DL George Prekas, Sr.; DL Danny Dalrymple, Jr.; DL Jamarcus Warren, Soph.; LB *Gabe Soliman, Sr.; LB Devon Dibenedict, Sr.; LB Brandon Buckner, Sr.; LB Travis Green, Sr.; DB Kyron Clark, Jr.; DB Jacob Salzer, Jr.; DB Ja’vian Foley, Sr.; S *Conner Tyson, Sr.; S *Semaj Whittine, Sr.; S Graydon Palazzo, Jr.

SPECIAL TEAMS: PK/P Jack Hearn, Soph.; LS George Prekas, Sr.; RET *Semaj Whittine, Sr., or *Conner Tyson, Sr.

SCHEDULE

All games on a Friday at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted All District 7-5A games notated with an asterisk.

SEPT. 5, Lakeshore (A); SEPT. 12, Madison High (H); SEPT. 19, Peabody (H); SEPT. 26, Franklinton (H); OCT. 2 (THU.), Covington (H); OCT. 10, *Slidell (A); OCT. 17, *Salmen (H); OCT. 24, *Chalmette (A); OCT. 31, *Northshore (H); NOV. 7, Mandeville (A).

TOUGHEST GAMES: vs. Covington (Week 5); at Chalmette (Week 8); at Mandeville (Week 10)

2024 FLASHBACK

2024 RECORD: 3-7, 1-3 District 7-5A (tied for third) No playoffs.

2024 REGULAR-SEASON RESULTS: 1, Lakeshore, L 34-14 (01); 2, Madison High, W 31-0 (1-1); 3, Peabody, W 16-13 (2-1); 4, Franklinton, L 61-13 (2-2); 5, Covington, L 48-0 (2-3); 6, Slidell, W 28-21 (3-3); 7, Salmen, L 42-14 (3-4); 8, Chalmette, L 16-6 (3-5); 9, Northshore, L 21-14 (3-6); 10, Mandeville, L 48-7 (3-7).

LOOK AHEAD TO 2025

Last season, the Bulldogs were a .500 team through the first six weeks, but the offense struggled down the stretch as they dropped their final four games. It was a familiar script as the Bulldogs faded down the stretch after a

solid start for the second straight season. The team has focused on its summer conditioning to hopefully help remedy those issues.

On offense, the Bulldogs will lean on the offensive line early. Junior Logan Astugue will take the majority of the snaps at quarterback this season. Conner Tyson, who will also start at safety, will also see some time under center. That is a familiar theme this year as several of the Bulldogs’ most experienced players will play both ways. The good news is that the line is relatively experienced, so that unit should give their skill positions a chance to mature.

The defense should be improved as Tyson and Semaj Whittine will anchor the secondary. The linebacking corp is all seniors, most of whom have been in the program for four years. That’s good experience, even if it didn’t come on the field. The defensive line should also be improved, but once again, several underclassmen will need to grow up fast if this unit is going to excel.

The Bulldogs have to stay healthy if they want to return to the postseason, and they have trained all summer with that in mind. Fontainebleau brought in Jon Childress as an assistant strength and conditioning coach to bring his naval training expertise to help on the football field. Kavanaugh said he has seen a difference in the team’s fitness level. If the Bulldogs can stay healthy, they can surprise some teams in district play.

PROJECTED FINISH: 4-6 overall, 1-3 in District 7-5A. 25-28 seed in the Division I nonselect playoffs, lose on the road in the first round.

Senior linebacker

Gabe Soliman

Sunior lineman

Kenny Primus

PHOTOS BY J DIMITRI PHOTOGRAPHY

Lakeshore’s Oudrey Gros IV returns after rushing for 21 touchdowns last season.

LAKESHORE

Continued from page 36

That familiarity should pay dividends.

“Our defense feels like a family,” said Gros, who will play linebacker “You have to rely on the other people. You have to know that everyone is going to play their role and execute.”

Cusachs will see time at free safety Brown will play some cornerback. Senior Kyle Gegenheimer returns at corner and will play the bulk of the offensive snaps.

Gros said the Titans took the importance of summer conditioning very seriously.

“We definitely don’t take summers lightly here at Lakeshore,” Gros said “Summer

is one of the hardest times, especially with all of the conditioning that we do. It makes us ready physically Mentally, we definitely have a chip on our shoulder after losing to the team that went to state.”

Indest said another benefit to this summer has been the fact that with an expanded coaching staff — alumnus Jacob Bernard is back coaching wide receivers — means players can focus on the finer details.

“We can definitely work on the smaller things that we weren’t able to work on before,” Indest said “We’ve got guys who have four years in the system, and I’m the only high school coach they have ever known. I think that is important because we have the guys where they need to be on the field and in the classroom.”

Junior lineman Luke Logue

Senior lineman Bryce Stigler

Junior Brody Loudermilk will start at quarterback.

The Titans return several experienced players on defense including, from left, junior Landon Hollingshead and seniors Caleb Larson and Cade Stevens.

Senior Kyle Gegenheimer

PHOTOS BY HERB GOMEZ

PEARL RIVER

Continued from page 38

With three offensive linemen returning, Hutchison said the Rebels’ offense can be dynamic.

“We’ll be able to throw the ball and run the ball this year,” Hutchison said. “We’ve got a great O-line and great receivers. We can spread people out, but we can run it down your throat if we want to It’s going to be a great year.”

Defensive mentality

Leonard will serve as the defensive coordinator He has more than two decades of experience in the position, and his new players can already see a difference in intensity

“I think we have a lot more drive this year,” said junior linebacker Ethan Bowman (6-1, 205). “I think last year, we had a little give, but from what I’ve seen this year, we have a lot more work ethic. We definitely got better.”

Pearl River defensive end Peyton Penton (6-1, 220) agreed: “I think we can dominate up front. That’s what we’re going to make happen. We take a lot of pride in leading the team. We want to set the fence. We can’t let anybody though.”

That intensity and desire to play tough defense is music to Leonard’s ears.

“We asked the kids to do some different things they haven’t done before. We moved some guys around. I think putting in some new coverages will give us some good opportunities, and the kids have a much better understanding of their assignments. I feel like we’ve made some good improvements,” Leonard said.

“I tell the kids all the time that you have to become comfortable being uncomfortable. And it’s my job sometimes to make you uncomfortable, to push you to a point where you’re not sure. But it becomes comfortable

STAFF PHOTOS BY JOSEPH HALM

Senior running back Gage Durand, left, and senior quarterback Brayden Hutchison are poised to lead the Rebels’ offense in 2025

once you start to understand what your role is.”

Leonard wants his defense and the whole team to play like they have a chip on their shoulder The players have mentioned that renewed focus on intensity time after time in interviews, so it is sinking in.

As for how Leonard feels being back on the sidelines after seven years? That answer is simple.

“I’m having the time of my life,” he said. “I’m enjoying myself. I’m enjoying the kids. I was able to bring in coaches that I knew and worked with before, which is a positive thing. Maybe I have a different perspective on things, having been gone for seven years, but I think the whole thing about me coming back is that it is what I missed, and this is what I loved doing. Honestly, I don’t feel like I ever left.”

HALM’S PICKS: DISTRICT 7-4A PREDICTIONS

Franklinton, Lakeshore battle for top spot in competitive district

Last year, Franklinton took home an undefeated district crown, but three teams finished with 2-2 records. That shows how balanced this district was top to bottom, and I feel like it will be that way again. The Demons and Titans open district play once again in Week 6, and the winner of that game will be in the driver’s seat for a district title. But Pearl River, Loranger and Hannan should all be improved teams, so this one will be interesting to watch.

1 | Franklinton

Joseph Halm

The Demons finished as state runners-up last year, and they return starting quarterback Jacob Crain, who threw for over 2,400 yards with 24 TDs and just four interceptions last year. Having that experience back means that Franklinton is the preseason favorite to repeat as district champion. But the question marks are who will replace 2,000-yard-plus rusher Sy Austin and District 7-4A Defensive MVP and middle linebacker DJ Anders? The Demons are in a good position to answer both of those questions and much more.

2 | Lakeshore

The Titans return their entire backfield in seniors Dylan Cusachs, Oudrey Gros and Shawn Brown. That’s a good sign for a team that runs a variation of the Wing-T This is Year 4 for coach Brent Indest, so his system is fully in place at the Titan Coliseum, which is another plus. Lakeshore will once again rely on several players going both ways, which has been the norm for the past few years, so health will be key The Titans get Franklinton at home this year after losing to them twice on the road last season by a combined eight points, so don’t underestimate the revenge factor this season.

3 | Pearl River

It’s Year 1 for Jerry Leonard, and the preseason reviews are positive. Players mentioned over and over again that they have taken to Leonard’s no-nonsense style of coaching. The Rebels return starters on both sides of the ball and have depth along both lines, which will serve them well. One challenge is the schedule as Pearl River has five road games and an open date in the first eight weeks. That will either be a lot of bonding time or a bit of a distraction for a first-year coaching staff. If the Rebels can be road warriors, they have a chance in this district.

4 | Loranger

For the first time in over 20 years, Loranger has a new head football coach as Chris Powell takes over for long-time coach Sam Messina, who is now at Independence. The good news is that running back Rylan James is back, and that means that the Wolves can compete with anyone. The junior rushed for 1,861 yards on 249 carries with 19 touchdowns last season. Loranger lost both its district games by a single score, so if the Wolves create a few extra breaks this season, they can soar up the standings.

5 | Hannan

The Hawks have a bit of momentum after winning a road playoff game for the second time in the last three years. That postseason success put a silver lining on an otherwise tough one-win regular season. Hannan should be an improved team under second-year coach Steve Soper as the Hawks have increased their numbers and have several starters returning. The only problem is that the entire district has seemingly improved, so that makes the task even harder for the Hawks.

From left, Ethan Bowman, Dakota Johnson and Peyton Penton will be key contributors on defense for Pearl River this season.

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