The Ardmoreite 2019 Football Preview by The Ardmoreite

THE DREAM COMES ALIVE UNDER THE

Friday night lights

2019 FOOTBALL PREVIEW | A SUPPLEMENT TO THE ARDMOREITE | THURSDAY, AUGUST 29, 2019

Ardmore 580-226-2331 1-877-224-2331

M K

THURSDAY, August 29, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

eady For So R me u o Y

FOOTBALL?

There’s none better than our local schools.

OUR CHILDREN ARE OUR FUTURE. Let’s give them all the encouragement that we can!

Best of Luck this Year! Ardmore. Lone Grove. Marietta. Ringling. Sulphur. Velma. Norman. Madill.

C Y

THURSDAY, August 29, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

Football Preview Index 4. Ardmore Tigers 7. Ringling Blue Devils 8. Lone Grove Longhorns 11. Dickson Comets 14. Plainview Indians 17. Sulphur Bulldogs 23. Wilson Eagles 24. Marietta Indians 26. Healdton Bulldogs 28. Fox Foxes 32. Davis Wolves 34. Madill Wildcats 36. OSD Indians

223.4500 • Optomap Retinal Exam

• Wide selection of frames & sunglasses • Latest designs in contact lens

• Diagnosis & management of eye disease

• Laser vision consultations

• Comprehensive eye exams for all ages

www.eyesolutionsardmore.com

1117 Walnut Drive • Ardmore

From left to right: Jaxon Clemons (21, of Plainview), Rusty Beard (7, of Dickson), Trevor McKnight (9, of Lone Grove) and Marcus Walker (3, or Ardmore). KATHY WORLEY/THE ARDMOREITE

THURSDAY, August 29, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

ARDMORE

Tigers hungry for redemption after runner-up finish By Evan Grice evan.grice@ardmoreite.com

Last season was historic in every sense of the word for the Ardmore Tigers football program. Ardmore not only regained the district title, but did so in an undefeated fashion. The Tigers would then go on to make the state finals for the first time since 1992, but the road to the finish line wasn’t paved with gold. Carl Albert defended its state title with a narrow 17-10 victory in the Class 5A state finals, famously dubbed “The night the lights went out in Edmond” as an ode to the fourth quarter when a blackout occurred at Wolves Stadium. With the end of last season came with it the graduation of 19 talented seniors on both sides of the ball for the Tigers. However, entering the 2019 season there are 14 new seniors

ready to leave their legacy on the Ardmore football program. Despite the large number of players who graduated last season, head coach Josh Newby isn’t lowering his expectations entering his fifth year in charge of the Tigers. “Everyone knows we’re replacing 19 seniors off of last years team, that’s not a big secret,” Newby said. “But we’ve come together in the spring and summer, and we’ve had some leadership emerge in our locker room. This is a gritty group, and our expectations are high for this team to replicate the success from last year.” One of the returning seniors this season is none other than Creed Cox, who will be the starting quarterback. Now while most quarterbacks have minimal varsity experience before earning their first year as a full-time starter, that’s not the case for Cox.

During his sophomore year, he was called upon to step in and lead the Tigers as Tero Roberts went down with an ankle injury. Cox was able to lead the Tigers to the playoffs that season, in which Ardmore finished 9-3, including a 6-1 record in district play, a district championship and a first round playoff victory over Guthrie at home. “I’m proud of our seniors, but when you talk about Creed, he’s definitely not green,” Newby said. “His first snaps of his high school career were against Carl Albert as a sophomore. He’s been in some big games for us, and he’s a leader for us and done a great job of running the offense for us.” “I think we have a championship locker room right now,” Newby added. “Ethan Lyles has been a great leader, as well as Marcus Walker, Jaamarre Williams, and so many others. These kids are a gritty group and we believe we can be a strong and

No matter how your car gets damaged, we’ll make sure it gets fixed right and on time. No short cuts. No compromises. And remember, where you get your car repaired is NOT your insurance company’s decision, it’s yours. So make the right choice. Bring your car in for an estimate today.

Equally Equally

Need to know Season Opener: 7:30 p.m. Sept. 6 at Ada Head coach: Josh Newby, 5th season Last season: 13-1 (Lost 17-10 vs. Carl Albert, State Finals) Did you know?: Ardmore football has made the playoffs 54 times in the school’s history. Ardmore made the state finals for the first time since 1992 last year. Ardmore roster available on page 6

Schedule Sept. 6 Sept. 13 Sept. 20 Sept. 27 Oct. 4 Oct. 11 Oct. 17 Oct. 25 Nov. 1 Nov. 8

Ada (Away) 7:30 p.m. Durant (Home) 7:30 p.m. McAlester (Home) 7:30 p.m. MacArthur (Away) 7 p.m. Altus (Away) 7 p.m. El Reno (Home) 7:30 p.m. Southeast (Home) 7:30 p.m. Duncan (Away) 7 p.m. Noble (Home) 7:30 p.m. Western Heights (Away) 7 p.m.

The Tigers will have to navigate successful team.” Ardmore’s quest to retain through road contests against its district title will have to go Lawton MacArthur, Altus, Dunthrough a difficult schedule this can and Western Heights, while SEE TIGERS, PAGE 31 season.

MATCHED...

TOUGH!!! 1315 4th NW • Ardmore • 580-226-DENT • solleyscollision.com

RENT ONLINE 580-223-0600 “Your Stuff Will Love It Here!”

1310 Merrick Drive | Ardmore, OK

PAY ONLINE www.merrickdrivestorage.com

THURSDAY, August 29, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

The 2019 Ardmore Tigers football team will feature a total of 14 seniors on the varsity roster. Ardmore will be under the direction of fifth year coach Josh Newby and will be entering the season as the defending Class 5A State Runner-Up after making the state finals last year for the first time since 1992. Ardmore will open the season on Sept. 6 against the Ada Cougars at East Central University. Ardmore’s home opener will be on Sept. 13 at Noble Stadium against the Durant Lions. EVAN GRICE/THE ARDMOREITE

Ardmore Regional Park

HAUNTED FOREST Oct. 17-19, 24-26 & Halloween Night Welcome to Dead Acres

Where evil comes out to play

Go Tigers!

Thursdays 7 - 10 p.m. Friday & Saturday, Halloween Night 7 - 11 p.m.

$12/person

The Hidden Hallows $6/person

Free Carnival Nightly 7 - 9 p.m.

Brought to you by:

The Great Pumpkin Hunt October 26th • 6 p.m. Pumpkin Hunt and Costume Contest

FREE

Ages 2-10 years

Family Fright Pack $10 OFF (5 or more of same household) For more info please call

580.223.4844

M K

THURSDAY, August 29, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

Creed Cox, Mikey Jones, Marcus Walker, Jaamarre Williams and Raven Henderson will be five of the total 14 seniors this season on the Ardmore Tigers Football team. Cox will be playing at the quarterback position as well as defensive back, while Jones is at tight end and linebacker. Walker will play as a running back and linebacker, while Williams will be a running back and defensive back. Henderson will play as a wide receiver and a defensive back this season. EVAN GRICE/THE ARDMOREITE

Ardmore Tigers 2019 roster No. Name Class 2 Jaamarre Williams Sr. 3 Marcus Walker Sr 4 Derick Peters Sr 5 Greg Booker Soph 6 Khaleel McGee Jr 7 Creed Cox Sr 8 Ethan Moen Soph 9 Donald May Jr 10 Jalen Cohee Jr 11 Raven Henderson Sr 12 Andrew Mendoza Soph 13 Dakaree Scott Soph 15 Kyle Arneecher Sr 16 Desmond Brown Soph 17 Jalen Reed Soph 18 Charles Haskins Soph 19 Preston Pickens Jr 20 Ke’ Ron Johnson Jr 21 Khalil Gordon Soph 22 JeSean Cohee Jr 23 Joseph Martin Soph 24 Alijah Pickens Jr 25 Evan Smith Soph 26 Mikey Jones Sr 27 Ricky Smith Soph 28 Anton Scallion Soph 30 Jackson Hedger Soph 32 Brandon Allen Soph

33 Elijah Franks Jr 34 Birch Wood Jr 35 Will Roberts Sr 36 Walter Graham Soph 42 Quincy Walker Jr 44 Alejandro Flores Jr 45 Bryce Hardee Soph 50 JaQuan Pickens Soph 52 Taylor Thompson Sr 53 Quintrell Armstrong Soph 54 Greg Booker Sr 55 Parker Blankenship Soph 56 Dennis Williams Jr 57 Austin King Jr 58 Ethan Lyles Sr 59 Gavin Hobbs Soph 61 Kris Henson Sr 62 Quentin Sheppeard Soph 63 Cordarius Tyner Jr 64 Phillip Fenti Sr 65 Kolby Lamb Jr 66 Riley Cox Soph 67 Trayven Newberry Soph 68 Tyreke Scott Soph 70 Josh Cajina Sr 71 CJ Minor Jr 76 Quade Derryberry Jr 77 Hayden Mann Jr 78 CJ Landum Soph 85 JaMar Stubblefield Soph

Lets Go Tigers TEM BARRETT NMLS# 291987

128 D NW ARDMORE 580-226-4282 www.barrettmortgageinc.com NMLS# 398026

A division of 1st Capital Mortgage.

Home Loans | Competitive Interest Rates YOUR WINNING TEAM

All Your Dentistry Needs Under One Roof - Pediatric Care

- Orthodontics

- Implants

- Same Day Crown & Bridge

Ardmore (580) 223-6720 • Marietta (580) 276-3055 • Madill (580) 795-3360 • stortsfamilydentistry.com

THURSDAY, August 29, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

RINGLING

Blue Devils looking to capitalize on 2018 success Need to know Season starts: 7:30 p.m. Sept. 6 at Mangum Head coach: Phil Koons, 2nd season Last season: 10-1 (Lost 28-22 vs. Christian Heritage in the opening round of the playoffs) Did you know?: Ringling claimed the district title last season, going 10-0 through the regular season By Bill Baker sports@ardmoreite.com

RINGLING — Just when it seemed the good times were returning to Ringling football last season, the rug was taken out from under them in the opening round of the playoffs. After a 10-0 regular season, the Blue Devils fell to Christian Heritage 28-22 in the first round of the playoffs at Rick Gandy Field. But, Blue Devils head coach Phil Koons is looking forward to replicating the success his team had during last season as he enters his second year at the helm

for Ringling this year. “Christian Heritage had good athletes, and they did some new things we were not prepared for,” Koons said. “But we are looking forward, and we like what we see so far from this year’s squad. We have a solid group of returners, and we have some openings that are there for some people to step up and prove themselves.” Senior Sam Van Buskirk will return at the quarterback position, but perhaps the biggest The 2019 Ringling Blue Devils will be under the direction of second year head coach Phil Koons and will strength of the Blue Devils will be looking to build off an undefeated regular season last year, which included a district championship. SEE RINGLING, PAGE 10 PHOTO COURTESTY OF MELISSA GRACE/RINGLING EAGLE

Bank simple. Bank local. Simply Free Checking for you and your business. A FREE account for everyone! • No minimum balance • No monthly service charge • FREE Thank You Gift and much more!

COLT

PLUS,

more person al and business ac coun that pay yo ts u interest!

(580) 226-4610 • citizensbt.com

MEMBER

FDIC

Ringling Blue Devils Strong Alone. Unstoppable Together! Good luck this season to all the Blue Devils!

Ringling • (580) 662-2375 Ardmore • (580) 215-5700

THURSDAY, August 29, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

LONE GROVE

Horns looking to surge forward in 2019

Need to know Season Opener: 7:30 p.m. Aug. 30 at Dickson Last season: 2-8 overall, missed playoffs Head coach: Brad O’Steen, second season Did you know?: Lone Grove reached the state semifinals during the 2015 season going 11-4 during that year By Evan Grice evan.grice@ardmoreite.com

LONE GROVE — As Cheryl Crow once said, “The first cut is the deepest.” The Lone Grove Longhorns are hoping this holds true, but from a different standpoint this season. Last year, Brad O’Steen entered his first year as the head coach of the Longhorns, struggling to a 2-8 overall record. This season though, the boys in black and white are more experienced and ready to prove they belong despite being in a tough 3A district. “We have nine people back on

both offense and defense, along with having 16 total seniors this year,” O’Steen said. “We were young last year, and we’re expecting there to be a lot of improvement in the program this season.” “We’re going to be making the change to a spread offense this season,” O’Steen added. “There’s a lot of speed on this team, and we have some good trigger men that can throw the ball. We might seem a bit undersized, but we have a lot of team speed that we believe can make up for the size difference.” One of the trigger men that will be returning this season is none other than senior quarterback

Lone Grove 2019 Schedule Aug. 30 Sept. 6 Sept. 13 Sept. 20 Sept. 27 Oct. 4 Oct. 11 Oct. 17 Oct. 25 Nov. 1 Nov. 8

Dickson (Away) Davis (Home) Madill (Away) Bye Pauls Valley (Home) Douglass (OKC) Sulphur (Away) Marlow (Away) Plainview (Home) Purcell (Away) Bethel (Home)

That feeling when your car is fixed right!

7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m.

The 2019 Lone Grove Longhorns will be under the direction of second year head coach Brad O’Steen and will be looking to improve on a 2-8 season last year as they missed the playoffs. Lone Grove will be returning multiple players this season. ROBBY SHORT/THE ARDMOREITE

Colton Jones. Last year as a junior, Jones threw for more than 1,300 yards during the season, and earned a place on the All-Ardmoreite football team. Another key returner on the offense side of the ball this season will be running back JJ Barnes, who torched multiple offenses last year with his quick speed and agility. Isaac Pool and Trevor McKnight will also be returning this season as seniors and will also play running back as well as linebacker. “We’re going to be running a 3-4 defense and occasionally have a 3-5 look to it,” O’Steen

said. “We have a good group of kids, and there’s plenty of speed on the defensive side of the ball for us. These kids have grown up a lot in the past year. Hopefully we will have more depth at every position than we had last year.” “Everyone is on board with the process,” O’Steen added. “During our practices in the preseason we’ve been seeing a lot of steady progress being made. It’s been a little difficult with the hot weather, but we’re all excited and ready to start the season.” In order for Lone Grove to navigate its way back to the playoffs this season, they’ll have to go through a stacked district. Sulphur will enter as the

defending Class 3A state runner-up, while Plainview was a 3A state quarterfinalist from a year ago. Pauls Valley and Douglass will also be in the mix as well as Marlow, Purcell, Bethel and Douglass from Oklahoma City. Lone Grove got its victories of the season last year against Bethel and Douglass, both of which came on the road. “We compete in a very tough district, there’s no denying that,” O’Steen said. “But in order for us to improve as a team, we have to play tough competition. Every week is going to be tough, but I feel like we’re going to be a lot more competitive this season SEE HORNS, PAGE 9

1315 4th NW • Ardmore • 580-226-DENT • solleyscollision.com

THURSDAY, August 29, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

Lone Grove’s Colton Jones drops back for a pass as head coach Brad O’Steen watches during the FCA 7-on-7 Southern Oklahoma Shooutout earlier this summer at Plainview Stadium. EVAN GRICE/THE ARDMOREITE

HORNS

the semifinals of the FCA 7-on-7 Southern Oklahoma Shootout Continued from Page 8 at Plainview, where the Longhorns fell by less than five points against the Indians. than we were last year.” The Longhorns will open the Lone Grove was busy during the summer showing its competi- season on Aug. 30 against Dicktive spirit as the Longhorns made son on the road, before welcom-

ing the Davis Wolves for their home opener on Sept. 6. A road game against Madill on Sept. 20 will be followed by an off week, before district play begins on Sept. 27 at home against Pauls Lone Grove’s Cale McLean lines up during the FCA 7-on-7 Southern Valley. Oklahoma Shootout earlier this summer at Plainview Stadium.

LONE GROVE ROSTER ON PAGE 39 EVAN GRICE/THE ARDMOREITE

We’re always on your team! local decision-making, individualized services,

With

and a team of professionals

that’s committed to meeting each customer’s own needs,

American Nation Bank

is more than just another bank. We’re a part of every community we serve.

www.bankanb.com

M K

THURSDAY, August 29, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

Ringling 2019 Schedule Sept. 6 Mangum (Away) Sept. 13 Dickson (Home) Sept. 20 Marietta (Away) Sept. 27 Walters (Home)

RINGLING Continued from Page 7

come at the running back position. Seniors Duchaine Paul and Ethan Johnson and juniors Cash Lyle, River Miller, and Preston Waldie will all carry the football. Senior Coty Scott will also be returning at the tight end position, along with junior Jacob Freeman, whowill be in during the Blue Devils double tight-end plays and will double up at linebacker. The offensive line has some stability and some opportunities as seniors Leyton Riley, Ethan Neble and Macs Stewart will be joined by sophomores Jaxon Perry and H.J. Stewart.

7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 4 Healdton (Away) 7:30 p.m. Oct. 11 Dibble (Home) 7:30 p.m. Oct. 25 Rush Springs (Home) 7:30 p.m. Nov. 1 Elmore City (Away) 7:30 p.m. Nov. 8 Apache (Home) 7:30 p.m. Nov. 15 First Round Playoffs TBA

Others that could see time along the front will be senior Lukas Thompson, junior Kyler Buckaloo and sophomore Scott Taylor. Junior Paysin Perkins and sophomores Chase Taylor and Kanyon McGahey will all share time at the wide receiver positions. Defense was a strength of the Ringling program last year, as the Blue Devils recorded six shut-outs during their regular season and gave up just 45 points prior to the playoffs. Junior Colt Gandy and sophomore Jacob Steury will be in the defensive backfield, and senior Drake Stapleton and sophomore Coltin Fincher should be the Blue Devils corner-backs. Paul moves from running back on offense to safety on defense

while sophomore Julius Koons will take the other safety position. “We have a pretty solid looking defense with a good number of people back from last year,” Koons said. “They all played really well in 2018, and we expect great things of them in 2019.” Miller and Scott will be the Ringling defensive ends, and Freeman and sophomore Braden Johnson will occupy line-backer positions. Lyle will move from tailback to line-backer for defense, and Macs Stewart will occupy the nose guard slot. “Duchaine will be our primary kick returner and kicker, and Scott will handle the punting chores,” Koons said. “We do have some opportunities along the defensive line. Caleb

Ringling 2019 roster 1 2 5 8 9 10 11 12 13 17 21 23 24

Colt Gandy Jr Duchaine Paul Sr Chase Taylor So Coltin Fincher So Sam Vanbuskirk Sr Drake Stapleton Sr Paysin Perkins Jr River Miller Jr Julius Koons So Brayden Johnson So Kanyon McGahey So Kash Lyle Jr Macs Stewart Sr

Stewart graduated, and those will be some tough shoes to fill. We have seven returning starters on defense. We hope last years’ experience will carry over to this year and provide another outstanding effort on defense. “I am honored to be in the Ringling program, and I love sharing in the Ringling tradition,” Koons added. “Our overall numbers are down this year. That happens sometimes in Class A football. We

25 32 40 42 52 53 55 56 57 58 70 74 75 77 80

Preston Waldie Jr Ethan Johnson Sr Coty Scott Sr Jacob Freeman Jr John Tynes Fr Lukas Thompson Sr Scott Taylor So Kyler Buckaloo Jr H.J. Stewart So Ethan Neble Sr Jaxon Perry So Tristen Acosta Sr Jacob Steury So Leyton Riley Sr Jorge Martinez Jr

need people to step up along both offensive and defensive lines and get the job done. And we want to stay healthy. If we can get a good foundation in our line positions and keep the injury bug from affecting us, we should have another solid season.” Ringling will be opening the 2019 season on the road against a familiar foe in Mangum, as the Blue Devils will hit the field on Sept. 6.

Proud supporters of the Ardmore Tigers and Plainview Indians! Best of Luck to all our area teams this football season!

www.ardmoreasc.com 2002 12th Street N.W., Suite C 580-224-0007

Like us on Facebook!

C Y

THURSDAY, August 29, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

DICKSON

Comets ready to forge new legacy in 2019 Need to know Season starts: 7:30 p.m. Friday Aug. 30 vs. Lone Grove Head coach: Steve Day, 4th season Last season: 5-6, (lost in first round of playoffs vs. Millwood) Did you know?: Last season the Dickson Comets appeared in the playoffs for the first time since the 2005 season. By Evan Grice evan.grice@ardmoreite.com

DICKSON — Last season the Dickson Comets were looking to build off their new-found confidence, after breaking their infamous losing streak the year prior. Mission accomplished. Dickson managed to not just take a small step forward, but a giant leap into the history books as the Comets reached the playoffs for the first time since 2005. In addition, the Comets also recorded historic victories over Lone Grove and Davis, both of

which came on the road. With a new campaign on the horizon though, fourth year head coach Steve Day has been quick to remind his players that the work has only just begun if they really want to create something special. “Last year is last year, but at the same time we’ve gotten a taste of the playoffs,” Day said. “We kind of know what to expect now when we get there. We also know what it takes to win games during district play and The 2019 Dickson Comets will be returning multiple players this season from a team that went 5-6 last the level of football we have to year and made the playoffs for the first time since 2005. Dickson will also be playing in its second season bring to the table.” as a Class 2A team and will open the season Friday Aug. 30 at home against Lone Grove. SEE DICKSON, PAGE 12 PHOTO COURTESY OF STACEY WEST

Go Team! Proud to support all of our area teams!

Billy Wallace

610 W. Main Street Ardmore, OK (580) 226-4420

That feeling when your car is fixed right!

We’re your Shield. We’re your Shelter. AUTO • HOME •LIFE

ShelterInsurance.com

1315 4th NW • Ardmore • 580-226-DENT • solleyscollision.com

M K

THURSDAY, August 29, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

Dickson Comets 2019 roster No.

Name

2 4 5 7 8 9 10 12 13 14 15 16 21 23 24 25 28 30 33 35 40

Keshon Johnson Johnny Smith Landon Davenport Rusty Beard Jack McDonald Kason Latimer Cooper Shelley Charlie Bean Jann Vasquez Payton Byford Braidon Lloyd Kaden Merchant Jzavionn Bennett Brian Jennings Brayden Hamilton Shacodah Bynum Barrett Allen River Moody Kameron Helm Christian Cotton Colt Winchester

DICKSON

Class

Sr So Jr Sr Jr So So Jr Fr Fr Fr So Fr Jr Jr Fr Fr Fr Jr Fr Fr

44 50 51 53 54 55 58 59 60 62 64 65 70 71 73 74 75 78 81 84 85 88 99

Tommy Millsap Riley Ballew Logan Ballew Kaedon Allen Britton Marsh Trevor Baxter Dalton Elmer Tristan Welch Jack Jones Dedric Henderson Sammy Lambeth Chris Hill Dominic Hunn Ayo Turner Jared Orsack Ashton Ray Tike Tippett Jace White JJ Lambeth Jay Ashley Brady Robison Damien Whittle Zirane Wright

but they have to elevate each other as well during the season,” Day added. “Obviously, Continued from Page 11 we graduated a lot of guys, but there are a lot of younger guys “We not only have to elevate who helped contribute to that our players’ levels of playing, who are returning this season.

Grant se

D e l a n e y

So Jr Fr Fr Sr Sr Fr So So Fr Fr Sr Fr So Sr So So Fr So So So So Sr

We’re excited and very motivated coming into this season.” One of the key players returning this season will be senior quarterback Rusty Beard. Last season Beard was instrumental in leading the offense for

the Comets as he scored multiple times in the opening game against Lone Grove. “This will be Rusty’s fourth year starting on defense, and his third on offense,” Day added. “He’s definitely a key player for us. He’ll see things on film and point them out to us, and we just have so much trust in him. Having him in charge with such a youthful group at the line is a big plus for us.” He’ll have a solid backup coming back as well in sophomore Johnny Smith, who exploded onto the scene last year with his speed and solid playing ability. Helping hold the line for the Comets this season will be seniors Zirane Wright, Jared Orsack, Chris Hill, Trevor Baxter and Britton Marsh. Dickson did graduate, some key players off last seasons team on both sides of the ball which include 2A-8 All-District Selection Brandon Sullivan, who ran for 1,134 yards on 176 carries with 12 touchdowns. Other key graduates included Jadley Cox and Joseph Bodkins, who were both All-District selections, with Cox being

the 2A-8 All-District Defensive Player of the Year. “We’ve got a lot of young guys on this team, there’s no denying that,” Day said. “But the great thing is that they’ve all been in this program for so many years, and been around us for so long. They know what to expect and how to play to their potential. It should be a fun season.” Dickson will once again have to compete with Coalgate, Marietta, Davis, Tishomingo, Lindsay and Comanche in district play. Last year the Comets narrowly lost against Coalgate and Lindsay, while Kingston was the only team to keep the Comets off the board all season. The Comets will open the season Friday night Aug. 30 at home against Lone Grove, before taking their bye week. Dickson will return to action with two straight road games beginning on Sept. 13 at Ringling, followed by a trip to Madill on Sept. 20. District play will open on Sept. 27 at home against Coalgate with district home games against Davis, Kingston and Comanche also taking place.

Ril

Ell

Proud of ALL our Comets

1104 Drew SW | ARDMORE INDUSTRIAL | COMMERCIAL RESIDENTIAL YOUR WINNING TEAM

All Your Dentistry Needs Under One Roof - Pediatric Care

- Orthodontics

- Implants

- Same Day Crown & Bridge

Ardmore (580) 223-6720 • Marietta (580) 276-3055 • Madill (580) 795-3360 • stortsfamilydentistry.com

C Y

THURSDAY, August 29, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

Dickson Comets 2019 Schedule Aug. 30 Sept. 6 Sept. 13 Sept. 20 Sept. 27 Oct. 4 Oct. 11 Oct. 17 Oct. 25 Nov. 1 Nov. 8

Lone Grove (Home) 7:30 p.m. Bye Ringling (Away) 7:30 p.m. Madill (Away) 7:30 p.m. Coalgate (Home) 7:30 p.m. Marietta (Away) 7:30 p.m. Davis (Home) 7:30 p.m. Tishomingo (Away) 7:30 p.m. Kingston (Home) 7:30 p.m. Lindsay (Away) 7:30 p.m. Comanche (Home) 7:30 p.m.

Dickson’s Rusty Beard runs against Lone Grove last season. Beard Seniors Britton Marsh (left) and Trevor Baxter (right) will be two of the senior linemen this season for will be the senior quarterback this year for the Comets. the Dickson Comets who are coming off their first playoff appearance since 2005 last year. EVAN GRICE/THE ARDMOREITE

EVAN GRICE/THE ARDMOREITE

Let’s Get Fired Up! GO COMETS!

320 N. Commerce Suite 10 • Ardmore, OK 580-220-8883 • www.pwcbd.com (Must be 18 or old to purchase CBD products)

M K

THURSDAY, August 29, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

PLAINVIEW

Indians loaded with senior-filled squad in ‘19 Need to know Season Opener: 7:30 p.m. Aug. 30 at Sanger (Texas) Head coach: Joe Price, 5th season Last season: 9-3 (lost 34-21 vs. Lincoln Christian, Class 3A state quarterfinals) Did you know?:Plainview has made at least the second round of the playoffs every year under Coach Price. This season will mark the first time since 2014 that Plainview has opened the season in Texas.

Schedule Aug. 30 Sept. 13 Sept. 20 Sept. 27 Oct. 4 Oct. 11 Oct. 18 The 2019 Plainview Indians will be featuring multiple senior players as the Indians will look to rebound from a 9-3 season in which they made it to the Class 3A state quarterfinals. Plainview will be opening Oct. 25 Nov. 1 the season on Aug. 30 against the Sanger Indians in Texas. Nov. 8 PHOTO COURTESY OF CRAIG SMITH/SMITH GROUP PHOTOGRAPHY the program, the Indians have been associated not just with success, but deep playoff runs Ever since Plainview head as well. Price’s resume includes a Class coach Joe Price took charge of By Evan Grice

evan.grice@ardmoreite.com

3A state runner-up trophy, as well as multiple appearances in the second round or deeper in the playoffs. As Plainview enters the 2019

Sanger (TX) (Away) 7:30 p.m. Tuttle (Away) 7 p.m. Elgin (Home) 7 p.m. Purcell (Home) 7 p.m. Bethel (Away) 7 p.m. Marlow (Home) 7 p.m. Sulphur (Home) 7 p.m. Lone Grove (Away) 7 p.m. Pauls Valley (Away) 7 p.m. Douglass OKC (Home) 7 p.m.

season, they will do so with a made the state quarterfinals. stacked deck as the Indians will To say expectations are high have a total of 24 seniors coming for the red and white would be back from last year’s team which SEE PLAINVIEW, PAGE 15

TACKLE YOUR

APPETITE 1101 Grand Ave

Ardmore • 223-7050

2504 N. Commerce Ardmore • 224-9122

TACKLE the tough We

one’s.

1315 4th NW • Ardmore • 580-226-DENT • solleyscollision.com

C Y

THURSDAY, August 29, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

PLAINVIEW Continued from Page 14

an understatement. “I think the kids have high expectations for themselves,” Price said. “Especially when you think about how the season ended last year, our expectations should be high entering this season. We’ve got a lot of guys coming back in key positions for us, so having high expectations I think is very realistic for us.” Plainview will have plenty of talent coming back this season on both sides of the ball, which includes Blake Nowell, Brock Parham, Eli Russ and many others. Last season, Nowell finished his season with 45 carries for 832 yards with 13 touchdowns, while Parham threw for 2,022 yards on 139-of-202 passing with 22 touchdowns and just three interceptions. Russ was a rock on the line for Plainview and was named as a member of the All-USA Oklahoma Team. Also returning will be kicker Kenny Sutherlin, who was a perfect 4-for-4 on field goal

attempts last season while going 54-of-58 on extra point attempts. All four of the players mentioned were named to the All-Ardmoreite team last season. But that’s just scratching the surface when it comes to the amount of talent Plainview has coming back this season. Jaxon Clemons will also be returning this season after averaging 9.3 yards per carry last season. “We have so many guys back this year that have improved a lot,” Price said. “Each one of them has gotten better, and we’ve gotten better at a lot of positions. We’ve got two running backs who had solid seasons last year, and they are bigger and faster.” “Up front we’ve got three of our five starters back from a year ago, so that’s something we’re excited about,” Price added. “Defensively, we have a lot of experience coming back. Jake Guerin is a three year starter, as well as Tyler Berryhill. We’ve also got Trevor Burton and Joe Black who are both two-year starters for us. These kids have shown us a desire and an effort during two-a-days and

preseason workouts that they want to be better, and that’s got us really excited.” Plainview finished 9-3 overall last season, with its lone district loss coming against the Sulphur Bulldogs. For the first time since 2014, Plainview will be beginning the season deep in the heart of Texas on Aug. 30 as the Indians take on Sanger (Texas). Plainview will then have an off week on Sept. 6, before traveling to Tuttle on Sept. 13.

LEFT: Plainview senior wide receiver Blake Nowell goes up in the air for a catch against Anadarko during the FCA 7-on-7 Southern Oklahoma Shootout earlier this summer at Plainview Stadium in Ardmore. EVAN GRICE/THE ARDMOREITE

ABOVE: Plainview’s Jaxon Clemons runs with the ball during a game against Sanger last year at Plainview Stadium. PHOTO COURTESY OF CRAIG SMITH/CRAIG SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY

Good Luck!! 580-223-6465

376 Case Circle | Ardmore, OK

Good luck to all our area teams!

M K

If you believe it, the mind can achieve it. -Ronnie Loh

Prescription • Pharmacy Diabetic • Hearing WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED Henry Roberts & Bill Moore 1316 12th Ave. NW, Ardmore 580-223-5828

THURSDAY, August 29, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

Plainview Indians 2019 roster No. 1 2 3 4 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 28 29 30 31

Name Tyson Al-Jbour Drake Sisemore Reese Sommerville Garren Branch Tyler McDonald Grant Graves Payton Webber Tyler Winchester Morgan Pierson Adam Fuller Jake Geurin Blane Gibbs Baxter Bolles Will Morris Trevor Burton Brock Parham Reis Taylor Gavin Watkins Jaxon Clemons Blue Norman Blake Nowell Tavin Richards Caleb Burson Matt Hannah Kenny Sutherlin Jack McAdams Dax Price

Class Sr Sr Sr Sr Fr Fr Sr Fr Fr Sr Sr Fr Jr Fr Sr Sr So Fr Sr Jr Sr Fr Sr Fr Sr Sr So

32 33 34 35 44 50 51 52 53 54 55 57 58 59 60 61 64 65 66 70 71 72 73 75 76 77 78 79 85 87 88 89

Caden Pickens Tyler Berryhill Carter Hamilton Jose Ortiz Layne Davis Garrett Keith Cody Marr Zane Campbell Jaxon Shirley Hunter Inselman Lane Johnson Drew Naylor Brad Watson Nick Hanson Jeston Gilliam Hunter Freeman Chance Gilbert Wade Robinson Kallen Waterson Roberto Acosta Spencer Bruce Ethan Douglas Tyler Owen Adam Greisman Eli Russ Joe Barker Nick Owen Addison Robertson Braeden Stevenson Joseph Black Trenton Barrett Lyndon Redman

Soph Sr Jr Fr Sr Fr Sr Sr So Jr So Fr Fr Fr So Fr Fr Sr Fr Fr So Fr So Sr Sr Jr Sr Fr So Sr Fr Fr

Champions are made from something they have deep inside of them a Desire, a Dream, a Vision.

Plainview quarterback Brock Parham drops back for a pass last season against Sanger at Plainview Stadium in Ardmore. PHOTO COURTESY OF CRAIG SMITH/SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY GROUP

Funeral Home & Memorial Park

1610 C SE, Ardmore • 580-226-5556 • www.griffinhillcrest.com

C Y

THURSDAY, August 29, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

SULPHUR

Bulldogs out to continue recent string of success By Bill Baker sports@ardmoreite.com

SULPHUR — For the last two seasons the Sulphur Bulldogs have been among the last four teams standing in the playoffs. Last season the Bulldogs nearly claimed their third state title in team history, but were undone by a talented Heritage Hall squad. But in order for the Bulldogs to make it three straight trips to the semifinals, head coach Jim Dixon will need to fill some key positions left by a solid senior class. The Bulldog offensive front will need new people to step up and help continue the Sulphur tradition of running the football, getting first downs and plowing up yards. Perhaps the biggest shoes to fill will be those of Trey Kiser, Bulldog running back and line-backer. Sulphur will need to replace Kiser’s more than 2500 rushing yards on offense and almost 200 tackles on defense. “Trey was a great, great football player,” Dixon said. “He amazed me, even during the latter part of the season when he had that bad ankle problem. Not having him at 100% was tough down the stretch.” “We have always been blessed with good players,” Dixon added. “We should be returning eight offensive and eight defensive players from last season. We could be in pretty good shape, especially if we can stay healthy, and we have good senior leadership this year as we have in the past. They are proving to be excellent leaders, and we will need that leadership out on the football field while we work to strengthen the areas we need improve-

ment on.” Dixon is entering his 45th season as head coach of the Bulldogs and his 47th year overall on the Sulphur coaching staff. Under his leadership the Bulldogs have traditionally been a force in whichever district they are aligned with, and this season should be no different. “We still have a few things to work through at quarterback, but the likely candidates should be sophomore Reese Ratchford and junior T.J. Todd. They are both good athletes, and I believe we will throw the football more this year with those two in there. Senior Tavius McDonald and Logan Smith will see most of the carries. Both had over 700 rushing yards last season, and they should be able to get the job done this year.” Along the offensive front will be senior Price Daube and sophomore Brandon Lloyd at tight end. Along the front will be seniors Josh Watterson and Andy Carter and junior Garrett Trent, while some positions remain up in the air. A strong defense is Dixon’s primary concern. After that comes special teams’ play and then offense, in that order, and he believes a tough defense will help keep the Bulldogs in most games. “We have always believed in a strong defense here at Sulphur,” Dixon said. “This year we have some excellent athletes on that side of the football. And we expect great things from them.” Junior Logan Smith and senior Ethan Massey will be defensive ends. Senior Kyle Stevenson and junior Ko Withrow

Need to know Season starts: 7:30 p.m. Sept. 6 at Madill Head Coach: Jim Dixon (45th season) Last season: 12-2, (lost 50-14 against Heritage Hall in the Class 3A state finals at Western Heights High School) Did you know?: Sulphur has made the state semifinals the last two seasons and has two state titles in its history.

Window Treatments Wood Blinds We Measure and Install!

Locally Owned Dealer of Benjamin Moore Paints • Residential • • Commercial • • Industrial •

COOK PAINT Corner of Main & Washington • 223-6641 7:00 to 5:30 Mon.-Fri. • 8:00 to 1:00 Sat. Parking in rear of store

SEE SULPHUR, PAGE 18

There’s safety in numbers! 4 to be exact. How safe are the tires your student is driving on?

Whether you need 1 tire or a full set, let our expert team put the right tires on your child’s vehicle. Call for sizes and pricing today!

M K

2423 W. Veterans Blvd, Ardmore more

580-223-0854 www.tandwtire.com

PAINT

THURSDAY, August 29, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

The 2019 Sulphur Bulldogs are coming off a Class 3A state runner-up finish which included their second straight appearance in the state semiifnals. The Bulldogs are led by veteran head coach Jim Dixon who is in his 45th year at the helm. Sulphur will be opening the season at home on Sept. 6 against the Madill Wildcats.

will fill line-backer spots. McDonald, Todd and senior David Powell will serve in the Bulldog defensive backfield. “We have a tough schedule every year, and many times a game comes down to a heads up special teams play,” Dixon said. “It is the most important part of the game following defensive play. We hope to use a lot of people on special teams, and our kicking game must have a positive impact every week.” “We have been very pleased with our summer turnout of players getting prepared for the new season,” Dixon said. “Our first goal, of course, is to be strong in District 3A-2. We have a lot of excellent football teams in our district. That sometimes helps us when the playoffs come around. Even though we lost some very important football players, we are excited about our returners and the ones

2019 Sulphur Bulldogs Schedule Sept. 6 Madill (Home) Sept. 13 Davis (Away) Sept. 20 Cache (Home)

7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m.

SULPHUR ROSTER ON PAGE 38

Sept. 27 Bethel (Home) 7 p.m. Oct. 4 Purcell (Away) 7 p.m. Oct. 11 Lone Grove (Home) 7 p.m. Oct. 17 Plainview (Away) 7 p.m. Oct. 25 Marlow (Home) 7 p.m. Nov. 1 Douglass (Away) 7 p.m. Nov. 8 Pauls Valley (Home) 7 p.m.

PROUDLY SUPPORTS

FOOTBALL

Continued from Page 17

we have stepping up to fill the gaps left by the graduates. Hopefully we can put everything together and make another run for a state title.” Sulphur will open the season on Sept. 6 against Madill on the road, before traveling to Davis the following week for the annual Battle of the Arbuckles game against Davis. Sept. 20 and 27 will see back-to-back home games against Cache and Bethel, before the district opener takes place on Oct. 4 on the road against Purcell. Oct. 11 will then see the first district home game of the season against the Lone Grove Longhorns, before the annual fall break contest takes place on Oct. 17 against the Plainview Indians. Sulphur will then take on Marlow at Calvin Agee Field before finishing the season with a road game against Douglass in Oklahoma City, and a home game against the Pauls Valley Panthers. The playoffs would begin the next week.

S U L P H U R

SULPHUR

BULLDOG

PHOTO COURTESTY OF SABRINA DUCK/SABRINA DUCK PHOTOGRAPHY

C Y

THURSDAY, August 29, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

M K

THURSDAY, August 29, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

This Message is Sponsored by the Following Businesses and Merchants... THEY CARE. The UPS Store 1405 4th Ave. N.W. Ardmore, OK 580-223-7783

Where we treat you like family ✦ 128 D NW, ARDMORE, OK Office: 580-226-4282 Fax: 580-223-3908 www.barrettmortgageinc.com NMLS# 398026

T M AN

PRESCRIPTION PHARMACY RELIABLE DRUGGISTS 12th Ave. & E N.W. Ardmore, OK • 223-0671

Taking care of our community since 1981

The Vision Source Dr. John Barringer • 226-3523

...Making the journey less lonely. www.crosstimbershospice.org

207 “C” St. N.W. | Ardmore 580.223.0655

610 East Main | Davis 580.369.5335

Today’s teens face more distractions than any generation before...

715 12th Ave NW • Ardmore www.visionsource-drjohnbarringer.com

any don’t recall a time when they were not continuously connected to their friends. Cell phones — which might have been provided as a safety precaution in case Mom or Dad was running late picking them up from school — are now the source of constant messaging, sharing and media consumption. Teens send texts instead of passing notes in class. They share moments with their peers and the world in the form of photos and short videos. Music, food and transportation can arrive on demand, all with the swipe of a finger. Being away from their phones, even for a short period of time, can even cause a form of separation anxiety expressed in the acronym FOMO (fear of

missing out). So it should come as no surprise that cell phone use is the offense most commonly associated with distracted driving. However, it’s not the only type of distraction. Ten percent of all drivers ages 15 to 19 who were involved in fatal crashes were distracted at the time of the crashes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). NHTSA also reports that 660,000 people drive distracted every day. There are several excellent online resources that provide tips and information to help prepare teens for life behind the wheel, including Mercury Insurance’s Drive Safe Challenge and NHTSA’s Distraction.gov. — Brandpoint

Griffin ~ Hillcrest Funeral Home

Red River Valley Rural Electric Association

1610 “C” SE • Ardmore • 580-226-5556 www.griffin-hillcrestfh.com

580-223-6465

For Children and Adults

Certified by the American Board of Orthodontics

580-226-2331 Ardmore

376 Case Circle | Ardmore, OK www.TrophyAutoGlass.net

THURSDAY, August 29, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

Ardmore’s Creed Cox runs with the ball during the Tigers scrimmage Plainview’s Tyson Al-Jbour fights off a tackle during the Indians game against Sanger (TX) last season against Shawnee earlier this month at Noble Stadium. EVAN GRICE/THE ARDMOREITE at Plainview Stadium in Ardmore . PHOTO COURTESY OF CRAIG SMITH/CRAIG SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY

score 10¢ back every time you swipe* with Pay Me Checking from CFCU!

Federally insured by NCUA

JERRY’S GUN SHOP 715 GRAND AVE. • 223-8502 Hours: Mon-Fri 8:30am - 5:30pm; Sat 8:30am - 1:00pm

All oﬀers subject to credit union approval. Restrictions may apply. *Direct deposit of at least $500 per month and estatements are required to receive reward for check card use and ATM fee refunds. Oﬀers may change at any time.

1549 N Rockford Road | 580.223.0614 | comfedcu.org

C Y

THURSDAY, August 29, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

WILSON

Eagles aiming to soar during 2019 season

Need to know Season starts: 7:30 p.m. Aug. 30 at Paoli Head coach: Kenny Ridley, 2nd season Last season: 6-4 (Missed Playoffs) Did you know?: Last season marked the third year the Eagles have played as an eight-man program. By Bill Baker sports@ardmoreite.com

WILSON— As the old saying goes “It’s not how you start, but how you finish.” While the Wilson Eagles had a dream start to the 2018 season, winning their first five games, it was the finish that left a sour taste in the fans of the Eagles mouths. Wilson eventually ended the season 6-4, but their four losses came during district play against Waurika, Ryan, Empire, and Bray-Doyle. However, second year head coach Kenny Ridley is optimis-

tic heading into the 2019 season because so many of his players have plenty of playing time. Add to it a larger number of players this season, and Ridley is hopeful that injuries will not be as upsetting as they were in 2018 with a smaller squad. “Injuries hurt us around the week six and week seven mark last year,” Ridley said. “We had to move people around to different positions, and basically we just did not have enough ammunition left to finish the season as strong as we The 2019 Wilson Eagles will be under the direction of second year head coach Kenny Ridley, and will be needed. Therefore we had to sit looking to build off a 6-4 season last year. Wilson will be opening the season on Friday Aug. 30 at Paoli out the playoffs. Most everyone before hosting its first home game the following week against Caddo at 7:30 p.m. SEE WILSON, PAGE 37 PHOTO COURTESTY OF LEGACY PHOTOGRAPHY VIA THE WILSON POST-DEMOCRAT

When it’s on the line... we’re the team you want!

• Tire Repairs • Rotation

Whitener Feed & Seed 334 Redwood St.

Wilson

580.662.3443

Proud supporter of the

Eagles & all area football teams

Since 2007

M K

1100 N. Washington Ardmore • 580-226-3705

• Mounting • Sales

Tammy Ingram Owner

THURSDAY, August 29, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

MARIETTA

Indians under new management going into 2019 Need to know Season starts: Sept. 6 vs. Healdton, 7:30 p.m. Head coach: David Garza, First season Last season: 3-7, missed playoffs Did you know?: Marietta made the playoffs during the 2018 season, which was the first postseason appearance since 2015 By Matthew Berger mberger@ardmoreite.com

MARIETTA — Over the summer, some new renovations have been taking place at McClain Stadium in Marietta. However this season, the new additions won’t be the only thing which has changed about the Indians football team. Marietta will be under the guidance of veteran head coach David Garza, as the Indians will look to make it back to the playoffs after missing out last year. The Indians finished the season at 3-7, including losing seven of their final eight games to miss out on the playoffs after making it for the first time since 2015 the previous year. Garza is originally from Kerrville, Texas, a small town just North of San Antonio, but he carries with him more than 30 years of football coaching experience. Over the course of his career, Garza has spent time coaching in central Texas, as well as in the greater Houston area. Garza has spent the last three years living in southern Oklaho-

ma before taking the job with Marietta. “I don’t know what happened before, but I want to bring the passion and the love for the game back if it has disappeared,” Garza said. “Again, I am brand new to the area, so I am coming with clean slate. I want these kids to understand that we are stewards of the game, not only as coaches but student athletes.” During his high school playing days Garza was the starting quarterback, but as he entered college at Texas A&M Kingsville his game switched to the defensive side of the ball. He hopes his defensive prowess will help turnaround a defense which allowed 32.7 points per game last season. On the offensive side of the ball is where Garza sees the most potential. Garza stated the offensive line has been one of the more impressive position groups throughout the summer. “The attitude these kids have, they are enthusiastic about whatthey are doing,” Garza said. “They

The 2019 Marietta Indians football team will be under the guidance of veteran head coach David Garza, who will be in his first year at Marietta. The Indians finished last season 3-7 overall and missed out on the playoffs. PHOTO SUBMITTED

Marietta Indians 2019 Schedule Sept. 6 Sept. 13 Sept. 20 Sept. 27

Healdton (Home) Elmore City (Away) Rinlging (Home) Comanche (Away)

are anxious about going against other teams instead of beating on each other a little bit.” Another way Garza has tried to get a better understanding of his new team is by holding a meeting with his upperclassmen. Garza described the meeting as a leadership meeting where he expressed how valuable it is to the program for the upperclassmen to lead by example for the younger students.

Oct. 4 Dickson (Home) Oct. 11 Lindsay (Away) Kingston (Home) 7:30 p.m. Oct. 17 Tishomingo (Away) 7:30 p.m. Oct. 25 Davis (Home) 7:30 p.m. Nov. 1 Nov. 8 Coalgate (Home) 7 p.m.

“First of all, I told them God orchestrated this whole thing,” Garza said. “Anything that happens, it is so much easier to understand that the man upstairs will handle it this way. So they don’t need to worry and be concerned about the new coach and just to continue to have faith in our progress and our goals.” Among the returning players this season will be juniors Nolan

7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m.

Birkes and Garrett Morgan as well as senior Coleby Ing. Last season Birkes was the leading passer for the Indians with 415 total years on the season with three touchdowns. He was 19-of-48 passing with four interceptions on the season. Morgan was 10-of-21 on the season passing for 150 yards with one touchdown and three interceptions. SEE MARIETTA, PAGE 25

Call Today to schedule an appointment!

Ardmore Marietta

Madill

(580) 223-6720 (580) 276-3055 (580) 795-3360

We File ALL Insurance All Your Dentistry Needs Under One Roof - Pediatric Care - Implants

- Orthodontics - Same Day Crown & Bridge

C Y

THURSDAY, August 29, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

Hunner Payne will be a returning starter this season for the Marietta Indians after a standout season last year which saw him named to the All-Ardmoreite football team. FILE PHOTO/THE ARDMOREITE

MARIETTA

season for the Indians after running for 177 yards on 50 carries with one touchdown last season. Continued from Page 24 Another Ing who will be returning this season is Kile, as he Ing will be looking to step up will be a senior this season. as the premier rushing threat this Last year he was second on

the team in receiving yards with 245 for the season with three touchdowns and 25 catches for the year. Marietta’s dual threat rushing attack of Zack Spanglo and Carlos Whibbey graduated as they went 1-2 in total rushing yards last season with 617 and 535 respectively, while combining for 13 touchdowns over the course of the year. For his first year at the helm of the Indians, Garza plans to instill goals with a purpose. The first goal Garza put in place for his team was to make the playoffs, so the kids could

have a good feeling after the season. “We always set goals and reach them and sometimes we don’t,” Garza said, “But if you put a purpose in what you are doing, that gives you a little clearer outlook as far as what you want to do at the end of the season.” District 2A-8 will be one of the better districts in class 2A, but Garza and his staff remain confident they will be able to be successful for the upcoming season. Garza believes his team has the ability to reach six wins and fight for a playoff spot in 2019.

“It is just a matter of the kids believing in themselves,” Garza said. “When there is adversity, they don’t digress. To accept adversity and to punch it right in the mouth.” Marietta will open the season at home against Healdton on Sept. 6, before going on the road to take on Elmore City-Pernell the following week. District play will begin on Sept. 27 against Comanche on the road, before the first home district contest against Dickson the following week on Oct. 4. Games against Lindsay and Kingston will then follow.

Marietta Indians 2019 roster

13 14 15 16 18 19 20 22 23 25 26 31 32 33 40

43 50 53 55 57 63 64 65 67 73 74 75 78 81 86

No. 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Name Class Garrett Morgan Jr Nolan Birkes Jonathan Lohmeyer Patrick Coffey Jr Easton Sherfield Anjel Escobedo So Raymond Gibbs Jr Sethan Reed Javier Serrano Sr Gary Arthur Sr Johan Rodriguez

FIGHT WI N! O G

M K

Tyler Weatherford Juan Lopez Austin Hartman Sr Victor Vidana Titus Higle Chris Smith Easton Ballard Kile Ing Sr Dylan Brock Albert Florez Rowdy Matthews Rafi Escabedo Keshawn Douglass Jr Coleby Ing Sr Aldo Salazar

Dakota Gilley Cade Scarbrough Nestor Sanchez Kaden Dudley Hunner Payne Sr Rem Ducharme Cody Hicks Sr Hunter Smith Jr Creed Tredwell Draden Reynolds Dylan Prather Sr Aden Lott Jr Eddy Zapata Noah McMillin Joel Fernandez

580-226-0101 109 E. Main ST. • ardMorE www.tenstarpizza.com f

THURSDAY, August 29, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

HEALDTON

Bulldogs aiming to rise after tough 2018 Need to know

Healdton Bulldogs 2019 roster

to forfeit last four games of the season due to injuries and low No. Name Class Season starts: Sept. 6 at Mar- number of players 1 Garrett Koppel Fr ietta, 7:30 p.m. Did you know?: Before last 2 Austin Perdue So Head coach: Mark Barrett, season, the Healdton Bulldogs 3 Beau Bradberry Fr eighth season had made the playoffs four 4 Riley Pierce Jr Last season: 0-10, was forced consective years. 5 R.J. Peters Fr 7 Ross Perdue So By Bill Baker Bulldogs this year, and is com10 Raymond Echols So mitted to making sure everyone sports@ardmoreite.com 11 Isaac Love So forgets about what happened to 12 Cryden Perkins Sr HEALDTON — Last season the Healdton football program 14 Colton Pickelsimer Sr the Healdton Bulldogs experi- one year ago. 15 Wade Etter Jr “We want to forget about last enced their darkest hour as a 20 Jared Aycox Fr year,” Barrett said. football program. 22 Fabian Bode Jr “We had an unfortunate series After slumping to an 0-6 start 24 Johnny Gutierrez Fr to the season, the Bulldogs were of events that took us out of the 25 Isreal Madril Jr forced to forfeit their remaining running last year and left us too 28 Josh Harvey Sr four games of the season due short of players to go out and 33 Chance Wise Fr to injuries and a lack of players compete. We are looking forward to 2019, and hopefully we can be available. This season though it’s all competitive on the field in all the Sept. 6 Marietta (Away) 7:30 p.m. about a comeback, not just for games we play.” Sept. 13 Comanche (Away) 7:30 p.m. The Bulldogs will make the the Bulldogs football program, switch from the “wishbone” back Sept. 20 Tishomingo (Home) 7:30 p.m. but the town of Healdton. Sept. 27 Apache (Away) 7:30 p.m. Mark Barrett will be entering to the “Pro I” look offensively. his eighth season in charge of the SEE HEALDTON, PAGE 31

Schedule

50 Jacob Baird Fr 51 Lyndon Watkins Fr 52 Konner Engle So 53 Alex Langley So 54 Hunter Horton Sr 55 John Marshall Farrell Fr 56 Easton Tolliver So 59 Lee Parker Jr 60 Rodney Musgrove Sr 62 Creed Nelson Jr 65 Trenton Hoosier Jr 66 Christopher Justice Fr 72 Clayton Dean So 74 Layne Hix Sr 75 Kolton Cox Jr 79 A.J. Moss Fr 82 Ryan Matthews Sr 85 Potsawee Kajornchaiyakal Jr 88 Gauge Sorrells Fr Oct. 4 Ringling (Home) 7:30 p.m. Oct. 11 Walters (Away) 7:30 p.m. Oct. 17 Elmore City (Home) 7:30 p.m. Oct. 25 Dibble (Away) 7:30 p.m. Nov. 1 Crescent (Home) 7:30 p.m. Nov. 8 Rush Springs (Home) 7:30 p.m.

Call to schedule your prescription delivery!

T M AN

PRESCRIPTION PHARMACY RELIABLE DRUGGISTS

12th Ave. & E N.W. • Ardmore, OK • 223-0671

John David & Laura Black Griffin proudly support all of the

BULLDOG student-athletes and would like to take this opportunity to congratulate them on their hard work and dedication. Best wishes for a successful season!

HEALDTON, OKLAHOMA 665 5th Street, Healdton, OK 73438 (580) 229-1221 ~ www.laurelfuneralhome.com

C Y

THURSDAY, August 29, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

The Healdton Bulldogs will be returning multiple players this season and will look to rebound from a tough 2019 season in which they finished 0-10, having had to forfeit their last four games of the season. Healdton will be under the direction of veteran head coach Mark Barrett and will be opening the season on Sept. 6 against Marietta before going on the road and taking on Comanche the following week. The Bulldogs first home game of the season will come on Sept. 20 against Tishomingo with district play beginning the following week on the road against Apache. PHOTO COURTESY OF LEGACY PHOTOGRAPHY VIA THE HEALDTON HERALD

Call us to place your order!

580.223.8815

Mums • Garters Spirit Bracelets

Homecoming

2 19

718 W Main St • Ardmore • dodsonfloral.com f

TAKE THE WIN! We Proudly Support All Area Teams!

The UPS Store 1405 4th Ave. NW • Ardmore 580-223-7783

M K

Boxes & Moving Supplies Tape - Bubble Wrap - Peanuts

THURSDAY, August 29, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

FOX

Foxes looking to keep playoff fever alive Need to know Season starts: 7 p.m. Sept. 6 vs. Velma-Alma Head coach: Brent Phelps (14th season) Last season: 7-4 (lost to Tyrone 52-6, first round of playoffs) Did you know?: Fox has won two state championships in football, in 1978 and 1985. Fox’s rosters are available on page 30

The road to Athletic Greatness is not marked by Perfection, but the Ability to constantly Overcome diversity and failure. The Fox Foxes will be led by head coach Brent Phelps this season and are coming off a 7-4 season last year in which they made the playoffs and hosted in the first round. PHOTO SUBMITTED

By Matthew Berger mberger@ardmoreite.com

FOX — Coming into last season, the Fox Foxes were looking to regain the identity which made them into a perennial power for so many years. They certainly took a step forward with a 7-4 season, which was a huge step up from the previous year when they struggled to a 2-8 finish. This season, head coach Brent Phelps and his squad are hoping to add another brick to their foundation of building the program back to the top. “You just have to continue working hard and strive to do the best you can, and try to give it 100 percent each time you,” Phelps said, “We have a great legacy

here at Fox. Several people asked me, ‘Hey you guys had a good year last year how are you going to build on that?’ Well if you look at our tradition here at Fox is winning football.” Last season, Fox ranked 12th in the state on offense, scoring a total of 362 points for an average of 32.9 points per game. On the defensive side of the ball is where Phelps believes the team needed to improve if they wanted to take the next step in 2019. “Last year defensively we came alive and really started to get after it,” Phelps said. “We peaked around week ten unfortunately, and we didn’t perform in week 11 like we should’ve. You got to strive each week

GO TEAM!

Good Luck This Year! www.crosstimbershospice.org

207 “C” St. N.W. | Ardmore 580.223.0655

610 East Main | Davis 580.369.5335

SEE FOXES, PAGE 30

It’s football season, and we wish all of our area football teams a successful and exciting season. Good luck, and play it safe. We’re looking forward to every game! 1061 Veterans Blvd. (Across from the Refinery) Ardmore, OK biv26@yahoo.com Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8:30 a.m.-6:00 p.m. • Sat. & Sun. CLOSED

C Y

THURSDAY, August 29, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

M K

THURSDAY, August 29, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

2019 Fox Foxes Schedule Fox Foxes 2019 roster No. 2 3 5 7 8 10

Name Hawk Anderson Preston Shepherd Robert Davis Brenden Shultz Kaden Vaccaro Rashad Fields

Class

FOXES Continued from Page 28

to get better and improve, and if you do that then good things will happen. You can never settle.” Defensively, the Foxes were also ranked 12th in the state in class C, allowing a total of 264 points for an average of 24 points per game. The Foxes will be returning

Jr Sr Jr Jr Fr Sr

17 21 22 27 30 32 77 88 99

Colin Basset Blain Anderson Bryson Reeves Axel Anderson Branden Miller Braxton Palmer Harley Darling Tristen Robinson Koda Savage Jayden Robertson

three seniors from last years squad in hopes of leading the team to another successful season. “They are working hard, what more can you ask for than that,” Phelps said. “They are leading by example. You can ‘Rah Rah’ everything you want out there but by example is what does it. When the seniors are doing what they are supposed to be doing the underclassmen follow suit.”

Fr Jr So Fr So Fr Sr Jr So Sr

Sept. 6 Sept. 13 Sept. 20 Sept. 27 Oct. 4 Oct. 11 Oct. 18 Oct. 25 Nov. 1 Nov. 8

Phelps is entering is 14th season at the helm for the Foxes and has seen the highs and lows for most of this century. What drives Phelps to continue coaching is his passion for the game, and how he says the game imitates life. “Looking at these guys out here on the field, whether it be in the classroom or on the field, this why we do it,” Phelps said. “We want to give them the love of the game we have and we want

Velma-Alma (Home) Snyder (Away) Wilson (Home) Tipton (Home) Grandfield (Away) Temple (Away) Thackerville (Home) Corn Bible (Home) Maysville (Away) Mt. View Gotebo (Home)

to be able to have the chance to work with them.” Though the Foxes may not play the traditional 11 man football seen in bigger cities and communities, Phelps guarantees fans will be hooked the first time they witness it. “It is a wide open game, you’ll love it,” Phelps said. “After you watch an eight man game you won’t want to watch eleven man again, it is boring. You see lot of great athleticism and you see kids

7:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m.

making plays. It is an exciting game to watch.” Fox will open the season on Sept. 6 at home against Velma-Alma, before going on the road for a contest against the Snyder Cyclones the following week. Fox will then have back-toback home games against Wilson and Tipton to close out the month of September. District play will begin the following week for the Foxes.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON THE BALL

The Vision Source

Leave it All

Good All A Luck Team rea s

On The Field

PARKWAY MINI STORAGE REMEMBER US FOR ALL YOUR STORAGE NEEDS

Dr. John Barringer • 226-3523

• Security Fence • 6 Storage Sizes • 24-Hour Access • Discounts Available

www.visionsource-drjohnbarringer.com

580-226-0425 | 1841 Sam Noble Parkway, Ardmore

715 12th Ave NW • Ardmore

C Y

THURSDAY, August 29, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

TIGERS Continued from Page 4

getting to host El Reno, Southeast and Noble at home. Among the other seniors returning this season will be Raven Henderson, Kyle Arneecher, Mikey Jones, Will Roberts, Taylor

HEALDTON Continued from Page 26

Junior Wade Etter will return as the Healdton quarterback, and senior Josh Harvey will line up at the fullback spot with senior Colton Pickelsimer getting the nod for the Bulldogs at tailback. Senior guard Hunter Horton, junior tackle Kolton Cox and sophomore tackle Easton Tolliver have experience up front, and all are expected to anchor the Bulldog offensive front.

Thompson, Kris Henson, Phillip Fenti, and Josh Cajina. “In my opinion, this is the toughest district in Class 5A,” Newby said. “You have to be ready to compete every single week. El Reno and Noble are teams who are starting to emerge in this district. Road games against Lawton Mac

and Altus are always a challenge. Duncan is another strong team that we’re going to have to be ready for. We know we’re in for a challenge but these kids are ready and this coaching staff is ready.” In preparation for the upcoming campaign, the Tigers have faced off against the Shawnee Wolves and the Lawton High

Wolverines in two seperate scrimmages with one at home and one on the road. Ardmore will open the season on Sept. 6 in its annual rivalry game against the Ada Cougars on the road at East Central University, before enjoying two straight home games against Durant and McAlester on Sept. 13 and 20.

AHS Senior Kyle Arneecher

“We have some good people coming back in the offensive backfield and the offensive line,” Barrett said. “We have had a good spring and summer program. That should help us be ready once the season starts.” Defensively Healdton with go with a “4-4” alignment. Harvey and sophomore Colton Shaw will be Bulldog linebackers. Tolliver and Cox will double up and play the defensive end positions. Etter and Pickelsimer both have the speed and quickness to get the job done at safety. Junior Isreal Madril and soph-

omore Austin Perdue should start for Healdton at defensive corner-back. “We should be pretty solid with the defensive players we have returning,” Barrett said. “We still have question marks in our kicking game and special teams. But we always have several players step up and get the job done there every season. Barrett expects the strongest district competition to come again from the traditional pace setters.“Ringling and Apache in no particular order seem to be the teams to beat every season,”

Barrett said. “Elmore City, Dibble and Rush Springs should all be in the hunt. We are hoping to make a good run to get into the playoffs. We believe we are competitive with most of the teams we play this year.” “Having a shortage of players seems to be a state thing,” Barrett added. “Every year it seems a few teams have trouble keeping enough players. We hope last year was our year to forget. We’re excited, and we have an excellent bunch of kids. This is a new season, and we expect to do every-

thing we can to make ourselves and our fans proud of us.” Healdton will open the season with two straight road games against Marietta and Comanche on Sept. 6 and Sept. 13. Sept. 20 will mark the first home game of the season for the Bulldogs against Tishomingo, before district play begins the following week against Apache on the road. Healdton will have district home games against Ringling, Elmore City-Pernell, and Rush Springs this season.

PLAY WITH YOUR

HEAD UP

AND YOUR

HEART FULL

AND YOU

CAN’T LOSE

580-798-5050 Serving all of Atoka, Carter, Jefferson,

17 W Broadway

M K

of Ardmore

Johnston, Love, and Marshall Counties.

THURSDAY, August 29, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

DAVIS

Wolves hungry for playoff return in 2019 Need to know Season Opener: 7:30 p.m. Sept. 6 vs. Lone Grove Head coach: Greg Parker, 2nd season Last season: 4-6 (Missed Playoffs) Did you know?: Last season was the first time in 34 years the Wolves did not participate in the postseason. During their historic run they won five state titles and set the record for the longest consecutive playoff appearances in the state of Oklahoma. By Matthew Berger mberger@ardmoreite.com

DAVIS — All good things must come to an end. Unfortunately for the Davis Wolves, this phrase rang all too true last season After making the playoffs for The 2019 Davis Wolves will be under the guidance of second year head coach Greg Parker who will be in 34 consecutive seasons enterhis 23rd season with the program. Davis is looking to make the playoffs this season after missing out in ing the 2018 season, including the 2018 campaign. PHOTO COURTESY OF WOLF PACK YEARBOOK STAFF

Serving Ardmore Since 1948

K THIS SEA C U L SON D O ! GO

GO IS V A D ES V L O W

winning five of its six state football championships, the Wolves missed the playoffs with a 4-6 record. At 4-6 it was the first time the Wolves had finished with a losing record since 1973, a stretch of 45 years. For the Wolves, their road towards redemption starts on Sept. SEE DAVIS, PAGE 33

The spirit, the will to win, and the will to excel are the things that

endure.

These qualities are so much

more important

than the events that occur.

-Vince Lombardi

Business Insurance • Employee Benefits • Home & Auto

1505 N. Commerce Suite 104, Ardmore

580.223.7300

Est. 1992 Delivery of Residential, Farm, Commercial Propane, Gasline, Diesel and Oil.

Serving Much Of Southern And Central Oklahoma 101 N. “C” St. | Davis, OK Phone: 580-369-3135 Fax: 580-369-3514 www.pitmonoil.com

C Y

33 “It always has been and was long before I got here. The kids are excited the coaches are excited and everybody is working hard. We just plan on leaving everything out there each and every play and game and take what we can get.”

THURSDAY, August 29, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

DAVIS Continued from Page 32

6 at home against Lone Grove. Wolves coach Greg Parker is entering his 23rd year with the Davis program and his second overall as the head coach. Coming off last season, the returning players will have something to prove, but Parker can already tell his team is ready to go for the upcoming season. “These kids really care about each other,” Parker said. “It has always been that way here but it has really been noticeable this summer.” After opening on the road, the schedule gets even tougher for the Wolves. In week two they will face off with Sulphur in the annual Battle of the Arbuckles game before facing defending Class 3A state champion Heritage Hall in week three.

Last season, the Wolves suffered the bulk of their losses in weeks two through six, with three of them coming in district play. Davis will be looking to take back its district title this season from Kingston, who claimed the title with an undefeated run through district play last year. The rematch between the Wolves and the Redskins will open district play for both teams on Sept. 27. Another game the Wolves will have squarely on their radar will be a contest against the Dickson Comets on Oct. 11 at Comet Field. Davis’ home district games will be on Oct. 4 against Lindsay, Oct. 17 against Comanche and Oct. 25 against Coalgate. Parker will be relying on his senior leadership to help reestablish the Wolves football dominance for the upcoming season. The thirteen seniors, including key contributors like Cole Martin, Dane Parker, Trey Parker and Cooper Webb will have one last

chance to make their mark in the Wolves football history. “We have a lot of seniors who have grown and matured and come into their own,” Parker said. “The younger kids have stepped up in the early practices and the energy is good. Overall, I would say I am really pleased and all the coaches are pleased with the effort and the attitude of these guys.” After spending 21 seasons as the defensive coordinator, and not knowing what to expect as the head coach, Parker now understands what to expect in year two as a head coach. “There are a lot of things that go into being a head coach that are different, and most of them don’t include coaching football,” Parker said. “I would have to say it is things away from the practice field that I have gotten more used to having to deal with.” The 2018 season was a learning experience for Parker and his staff as well as the players, some-

thing Parker believes will help the team grow going forward. Nothing will change for the Wolves on offense as they will be running their trademark wishbone offense this season. “This is Davis, and football time is a special time in Davis,” Parker said.

Davis 2019 roster No. 1 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 13 15 20 22 31 32 34

Name Class Jacob Gain Jr. Cole Martin Sr. Tuff Hammons So. Jake Britt So. Diego Moore Sr. Toby Taliaferro Sr. Lathan Dickenson So. Tucker Miller So. Dane Parker Sr. Colin Dulaney Jr. Zach Mann Sr. Ty Birkes Jr. Trey Parker Sr Drew Parks So Kolton McGaha Jr. Shane Pletcher So. Jeston Idleman So.

DAVIS SCHEDULE ON PAGE 38

40 44 50 51 56 59 63 65 66 71 72 73 75 77 78 81 83 88 89

Cooper Webb Tyler Tomlinson Justin Ross Kavan Bolding Levi Baxter Tanner Claxton Chase Warren Isaiah Esquibel Marshal Bolding Wyatt Fisher Gavin Moore Christian Greenlee Conner Mohr Kaden McCurtain Greg Billy Tate Ward Adrian Hernandez Taylor Lawrence Lucas Baker

Sr. Sr. Sr. So. So. Jr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Jr. So. Sr. So. So. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. So.

PUT US IN, COACH GO WOLVES!

1630 E. Main • Davis 580-369-2344 • www.mikehellackchevrolet.com

Phillip C. Tabor, Jr., O.D. | (580) 369-EYES (3937) 119 W. Main St., Davis | www.taboreyeclinic.com

THURSDAY, August 29, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

MADILL

Wildcats hoping for bounce back season on new turf Need to know

Madill Wildcats 2019 roster

Season starts: 7:00 p.m., Friday Aug. 31 vs. Sulphur Head Coach: Todd Vargas, 1st season Last season: 3-7 overall. 0-6 in district play Did you know?: Coach Vargas is a native of Madill

No. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 15 16 21 22 23 24 25 28 33 34 36 38 40 42 43 44

By Janlee Hoppers For the Armdoreite

MADILL — Coming into last season, the Madill Wildcats knew they would be in for a tough road entering the gauntlet known as Class 4A. The change in classification proved to be a difficult one as the Wildcats finished 4-6, missing out on the playoffs. However, this season there is plenty of reason to be optimistic as the Wildcats enter year two under head coach Todd Vargas. Not only will there be a new artificial turf surface at Blake Smiley Stadium, but the Wildcats are returning several starters on both sides of the ball. It’s got coach Vargas thinking

big for his Wildcats team, who hasn’t had a winning season since 2016. “We are very excited for the upcoming season,” Vargas said. “We’ve been working extremely hard in the offseason, and there’s a great group of seniors leading us this year, along with some great coaches. We feel this is going to be a special season.” “We know that our success this season is hinging on our ability to play defense,” Vargas added. “We feel like we can accomplish that this season. Turf here at Madill was a need not necessarily a want. Our field was so over used that it was not safe for our kids. We have little league football on Saturdays, JH games, JV games, SEE MADILL, PAGE 35

Name Trey Gammil Ryan Shahan Houston Stephenson Kendall Robertson Jerod Fields Bret McDaniel Ty Rushing Asa Robertson Yovanny Robles Francisco Perez Brandon Serrano Mateo Fajardo Tristen Martin Coby Sandefur Lolo Ortega Hunter Elkins Holden McGahey Brandon Stevens Sammy Trevino Josh Burt Daniel Huff Tito Martinez Ian Zang Stevie Love R.J. Morris Stephen Condit John Venable Bryant Griffin

Class So Sr So So Sr Sr Fr Sr Fr Fr Sr Sr Fr So Sr Sr Fr So Fr So Fr So So Fr Fr Fr Sr Fr

45 48 50 52 54 55 56 58 59 60 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 70 71 72 73 75 76 77 78 80 82 84 85 86 88 89

Brayan Herrera Jorge Martinez Armando Sanchez Axzel Mendoza Uriel Aviles Jesus Diaz Oscar Rodriguez Dillon Carter Ethan Blakemore Riggin Melton Braden Thompson Coty Tweedy Tanner Clary Bryce Coles Cesar Moreno Adan Yanez Cameron Huff Chris Taylor Danny Lima Josh Schneider Levi Sprouse EJ Holliday Aaron Wilson Braden Herndon Griffon Wiliams Victor Moreno Landon Melton Cole Selvy Kabob McDaniels A.J. Sweet River Shaw Brayden Feuerborn

Jr So Jr So Jr So Jr Sr Fr Sr So Sr So Fr Fr Fr Fr Sr So Fr Fr Sr Jr Sr Jr Fr Fr Sr So So Fr Jr

Proud Supporter Of Academics and Athletics.

STATE HOUSE District 48

Good Luck To All Our Area Teams!

Authorized and paid for by the Friends of Tammy Townley, PO Box 1682, Ardmore, OK 73401

All Your Dentistry Needs Under One Roof - Pediatric Care - Implants

- Orthodontics - Same Day Crown & Bridge

Call Today to schedule an appointment!

Ardmore Marietta

Madill

(580) 223-6720 (580) 276-3055 (580) 795-3360

We File

ALL Insurance

THURSDAY, August 29, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

MADILL Continued from Page 34

Varsity games. We have a great band here that needs to practice on the field. Our kids deserve it and we are so thankful for our administration and school board who realized this and made it happen.” The Wildcats have seven returners on offense and four on defense, with this years team

being senior led, who will all play an important role on both sides of the ball. One of the players the team will be looking to replace is Dakota Vanderburg, who finished with 74 tackles last season including three forced fumbles, he was also a member of the All-Ardmoreite football team last year. Among the seniors coming back this season will include Ryan Shahan, Jerod Fields, Bret McDaniel, Asa Robertson, Brandon Serrano, Mateo Fajar-

do, Lolo Ortega, Hunter Elkins, John Venable, Dillon Carter, Riggin Melton, Chris Taylor, Coty Tweedy, EJ Holliday, Braden Herndon, and Cole Selvy. Madill will be in the second year for the Flexbone Triple option offense, which will hope to bring more success this season for the Wildcats. Last season, district play proved to be a difficult task for the Wildcats, as they dropped their opening two contests against Cushing and Tuttle.

The Wildcats did manage to take down Harrah in a thriller at home, but lost the following week against Blanchard. Madill’s last win of the season came against McLoud before back-to-back losses against Bethany and Tecumseh ended the season. The Wildcats will be opening the year on the road against the Sulphur Bulldogs with the opening game of the season slated for Sept. 6. Madill will get the chance to

play on its new turf on Sept. 13 against Lone Grove, before enjoying a second straight home contest the following week against Dickson for Homecoming. District play will begin on Sept. 27 at Cushing, before the Tuttle Tigers come to town on Oct. 4, with a trip to Harrah set for Oct. 11. Team photo unavailable as of press time on Wednesday, Aug. 28, 2019.

IF YOU BELIEVE IT YOU CAN DO IT

Madill’s Bret McDaniel takes a hand off during a district game last season against Cushing at Blake Smiley Stadium in Madill. PHOTO COURTESY OF TONY MCSWAIN/FOR THE ARDMOREITE

2019 Madill Wildcats Schedule

Sept. 27 Cushing (Away) 7:30 p.m. Oct. 4 Tuttle (Home) 7:30 p.m. Oct. 11 Harrah (Away) 7:30 p.m. Oct. 17 Blanchard (Home) 7:30 p.m. Sept. 6 Sulphur (Away) 7:30 p.m. Oct. 25 McLoud (Away) 7:30 p.m. Sept. 13 Lone Grove (Home) 7:30 p.m. Nov. 1 Bethany (Home) 7:30 p.m. Sept. 20 Dickson (Home) 7:30 p.m. Nov. 8 Tecumseh (Away) 7:30 p.m.

3RD AVE FLEA MARKET “Let’s Go Junkin”

Flea Market Open Every Saturday 8am to 4pm Now Open Friday 10am to 4pm Your treasure hunt begins here. Lots of vendors ready to make deals. Bring your trucks and trailers!

100 3rd Ave NE | Ardmore | (580) 465-5355

Washington DENTAL CLINIC

Family Dentistry 920 N. Washington • Ardmore • 223-7060

Happiness is a clean tooth! Good Luck!

Proud Supporter of the Ardmore Area Football920 Teams! N. Washington

Ardmore • 223-7060

THURSDAY, August 29, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

OKLAHOMA SCHOOL FOR THE DEAF

OSD Indians to be led by former player as new coach mberger@ardmoreite.com

SULPHUR — In times of change, it’s often best to go back to someone who is familiar with a program and its surroundings. The Oklahoma School for the Deaf Indians football team is doing just that this season. Jason Sledd, who played for the Indians in high school at OSD, will take over head coaching duties this fall among other changes to the program. For starters, the Indians are trying to switch from eight-man football to six, something Sledd has said has been a major challenge for the program. “I have the expectations to meet some of my goals,” Sledd said through an interpreter. “I have a lot of expectations and motivation for the kids. We were GPSD co-champs and I want to continue that.” Sledd played football for the Indians until graduation in 1995. After graduation he made a pledge to himself to get back to the school and coach football himself. Last season Sledd’s pledge came true

when he was hired onto the coaching staff as an offensive coordinator. This season his ultimate dream came true as he is now entering his first season has head coach of the Indians football team. “I have high expectations to be the GPSD champs,” Sledd said through an interpreter. “Our conference, among the GPSD, I know the teams and knowing that I think we can be champs again.” Sledd also serves as the head boys basketball coach, a title he has had for the past eight seasons. Being champs maybe the goal for the upcoming season but it comes with new challenges. The team played with six man rules once during last season against Missouri, and with a smaller roster may have to play a full season by those rules this year. The differences from eight man to six man include; First downs are 15 yards instead of 10 and the quarterback is not allowed to rush the ball. “Traditionally it has been eight-man for us, and eight man and 11 man football rules are pretty much the same,” Sledd said through an interpreter. “Last year we played a game which was six man

Need to know Season Opener: Sept. 7 at Iowa School for the Deaf Head coach: Jason Sledd (First season) Last season: 4-3 (Were named as GPSD Co-Champions) Did you know?: Coach Sledd suited up for the Oklahoma School for the Deaf Indians during his high school days and served as an assistant coach for the football team last season

Schedule Sept. 7 Sept. 12 Sept. 21 Sept. 26 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 26 Oct. 31

Iowa School for the Deaf (Away) Missouri School for the Deaf (Home) Louisiana School for the Deaf (Away) Kansas School for the Deaf (Away) Arkansas School for the Deaf (Home) Mississippi School for the Deaf (Home) Minnesota School for the Deaf (Home) Life Christian Academy (Away)

TBA 10 a.m. 11 a.m. 10 a.m. 6:30 p.m. TBA 6:30 p.m. 11 a.m.

rules and it was tough with all the changes we had to make during the game. But we are ready, and we have learned the changes that we need make for six man this season.” The 2019 season will have four seniors returning from last years 4-3 squad. With all the changes made in terms of rule changes and switching to a different style of football, coach Sledd will be relying on his seniors for leadership with the younger students. “Our seniors are pretty comfortable because they mostly played last year so they have had a lot of exposure,” Sledd said. “I think they will be able to get really serious and be committed. Their leadership and influence will go towards the other players. We’ve worked towards the six man and prepped them.” With the season quickly approaching, Sledd and his staff are ready to start the season and return as champions. Sledd

has put several lofty goals for his team and hopes to achieve them. For those who have never seen, or have always wanted to but have never been to an Indians game, Sledd hopes you will come watch this season. “I want you to come out,” Sledd said. “First of all, deaf players can’t hear but football is visual too. Come watch that, the deaf are responding to visual instead of hearing. It is an interesting dynamic.” The Indians will be opening their season on Sept. 7 on the road against the Iowa School for the Deaf, before hosting Missouri on Homecoming weekend with the game set to take place on Thursday Sept. 12 at 10 a.m. Nine days later the Indians will travel to Louisiana for a GPSD contest, before going to Kansas just five days afterwards. Team photo unavailable as of press time on Wednesday, Aug. 28, 2019.

SUPPORTERS OF

PROUD

By Matthew Berger

OKLAHOMA SCHOOL FOR THE DEAF

C Y

THURSDAY, August 29, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

2019 Wilson Eagles Schedule Aug. 30 Sept. 6 Sept. 13 Sept. 20 Sept. 27 Oct. 4 Oct. 11 Oct. 18 Oct. 25 Nov. 1 Nov. 8

Wilson Eagles 2019 roster

Paoli (Away) Caddo (Home) Thackerville (Home) Fox (Away) Bye Maud (Away) Waurika (Away) Central High (Home) Empire (Home) Ryan (Away) Bray-Doyle (Home)

WILSON Continued from Page 23

will be back from last years’ team. I like our speed and quickness that you need playing in 8-man football. I am hopeful for a positive outcome this year.” Senior Logan Schaaf returns as the Eagle quarterback. Schaaf had over 800 rushing yards last year in seven games. According to Ridley, Schaaf is a good extension of his offensive coaches on the field. Sophomore Hayden Mantooth and junior Hunter Wyatt will line up behind Schaaf as running

FOOTBALL IS HARD

7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m.

backs, while senior Luke Honea will work from a flanker position on the Wilson offense. Junior Tre Richardson will be the Eagle center, and sophomore Josh Grace will be at guard. “We will have some competition for the other guard slot,” Ridley said. “But more important is that we should be able to work other people into the lineup to give everyone a rest. We have needed that in the past so everyone doesn’t have to play every down on offense and defense. Hopefully we can play two units out there and not be hurt too much.” Senior Ethan Lowery and junior Axson Hunziker, both at

36 44 51 55 60 62 64 71 72 73 75 76 82 88

Caylen Fulton John Gunter Kaden Henry Dakota Cox Landon Wright Daniel Whatley Daniel Howard Tre Richardson Ashton English Dylan Plunk Blane Way Josh Grace Tommy Wright Damian Tomlinson

No. Name Class 1 Carson Fulton Sr 2 Jaren Forsythe Jr 3 Hunter Wyatt Jr 4 Shane Honea Sr 5 Collin Bland So 7 Logan Schaaf Sr 11 Kaden Barron Fr 12 Hayden Mantooth So 23 Ethan Lowery Sr 24 Michael Whatley So 27 Jayk Flatt Jr 33 Axson Hunziker Jr 6-0, 190 lbs., will be the Eagles’ allows us an off week followdefensive ends. ing our game against Fox. That They will have to cover ground should give us a chance to requickly with the space given the group and focus more fully on outside in 8-man competition. our upcoming district schedule. Junior Jayk Flatt will operate It will be a nice breather for us. at one of the Wilson linebacker “We have been blessed with spots, and senior Dylan Plunk plenty of good kids,” Ridley addshould lead competition for the ed. nose guard spot. “They have bought into the On special teams’ play, Man- system and have great attitudes tooth should handle the kick-off in the way we approach things. duties, and Honea will be the We have made some good strides Eagle punter, while Schaaf will over last years’ team. We do have be the teams’ long snapper. a tough district schedule. But if “A real positive for us is having we can stay healthy, we should be more depth than we had last able to move on to better things year,” Ridley said. “Our schedule in the Wilson football program.”

Fr Fr So So Fr So Jr Jr Fr Sr So So Sr So

Wilson will open the season Aug. 30 on the road against Paoli, before having two consecutive home games against Caddo and Thackerville on Sept. 6 and Sept. 13, before traveling to Fox on Sept. 20. Following an off week the Eagles will travel to Maud on Oct. 4, before opening district play at Waurika on Oct. 11. District home games this season will consist of Central High, Empire and Bray-Doyle. Wilson’s only other district road game of the season will come on Nov. 1 against the Ryan Cowboys at 7:30 p.m.

BUYING A HOME SHOULDN’T BE. Making your country home living dreams a reality with our competitive mortgage rates & terms. OKAGCREDIT.COM | 580-226-8859 | ARDMORE

s i n o i t i d ing. a r T h t y r Eve

Steve McIntyre

Ryan Jones

NMLSR ID#812982

NMLSR ID#1451790

VP/Branch Manager

We’re nothing if not traditional. With four generations to serve you, tradition is in our blood.

Loan Officer

(580) 223-2727

525 S. Commerce • Ardmore www.craddockfuneralhome.com

THURSDAY, August 29, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

Sulphur Bulldogs 2019 roster No. 1 2 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 20 23 23 23 24 28 29 29 34 35 40 40 41 42 43 44 52 53 55 56 56 60 61 62 63 64 65

Name David Powell Tavius McDonald Brayden Standifer Logan Smith Darnell Colbert Carson Pettifer Reese Ratchford Price Daube Ethan Massey T.J. Todd Kyle Stevenson Angel Robledo William Blackstone Mace Mobly Weston Arms Jacob Bumgarner Ko Withrow Spur Pitmon Kobe Ashley Brant Flood James Hotson Cole Gentry Joshua Hymes Domanic Newport Gage Graham Kord Standifer J.D. Ford Brex Flood Austin Pace Josh Watterson Damon Gregg Dylan Rogers T.J. Wright Cody Reynolds Zac Stinson Cade Shackelford Braxtyn Sanford Kolby Woodell

Class Sr Sr Sr Jr Sr So So Sr Sr Jr Sr Sr Jr So Jr Jr So Jr So Jr So Jr So So Sr Jr So Jr Sr Sr Jr Jr Sr Sr Sr So So

67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 75 76 77 79 80 80 81 82 83 84

Luke Reynolds Rylan Baker Joseph Wally Garrett Trett Sage Borders Gage Watson Josh Brown Andy Carter Justin Lawson Benton Sexton Zane Pannell Brody Vandagriff Quinton Nanney Benedict Voss Levi Johnson Ashton Erwin Bradley Lancaster Bryce Denny Brandon Lloyd Andrew McCurry Aspen Jolly Ben McGill Caleb Farnell Cale Reed Cooper Cleburn Daniel Amaya Davion Willis Drew McGregor Dylan Smith Eduardo Gonzales Fred Womack Justin Lawson J.W. Bivens Kaden Prather Marie Womack Matthew Pavlovic Quince Borders Remington Johnson Rowdy Standifer Sam Pigeon

So So So Jr Jr So So Sr Jr Sr Jr So So Jr Sr Jr So Fr Fr Fr Jr Jr Fr Fr Fr Fr So Jr

Dickson’s Johnny Smith runs with the ball during the season opener last season against Lone Grove at Longhorn Stadium. EVAN GRICE/THE ARDMOREITE

Jr Fr Fr Fr Fr Fr Fr Fr

THE TEAM YOU NEED Amy Thompson, PT | Sue Steele, OTR/L | Dennis Thompson, ATC Excel Therapy prides itself in providing quality physical therapy services.

2019 Davis Wolves Schedule Sept. 6 Sept. 13 Sept. 20 Sept. 27 Oct. 4 Oct. 11 Oct. 17 Oct. 25 Nov. 1 Nov. 8

Lone Grove (Away) Sulphur (Home) Heritage Hall (Home) Kingston (Away) Lindsay (Homecoming) Dickson (Away) Comanche (Home) Coalgate (Home) SR. night Marietta (Away) Tishomingo (Away)

7:30 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m.

Physical Therapy | Occupational Therapy Workers’ Compensation | Sports Medicine High School Outreach Program

580.226.9235 | 2002 12th Street NW, Ardmore www.exceltherapyspecialists.com | excel@cableone.net

THURSDAY, August 29, 2019 n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

Lone Grove Longhorn No. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21

Name Cody McClennahan Blayde Wilkerson Colton Jones Cooper Robinson Gavin Peery Conner King Whitt Wilson Cole Skelly Trevor McKnight Colton Danker Michael Ramsey Michel Cain Jadon Cardenas Isaac Pool Hunter Mckenzie Caden Gilmore Malik Brown Braeden Bailey Christian Hawkins Jackson Grace Robert Buenting

2019 roster Class

Jr So Sr Jr Jr Jr Jr Sr Sr Sr Sr So Sr Sr Jr Fr Jr So So Fr So

22 23 24 25 26 28 29 30 32 33 34 35 36 37 42 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58

JJ Barnes Braxton Sparks Cale McLean Colby McLean Colton England Adrian Becker Jordan Ferrer Dawson Pickens Derek Cox Dezhon Jones Ethan Cohee Skylar Battles Ethan Denney Parker Price Ethan Barnes Kahner Kyle Patrick Phillips Evan Copeland Juan Martinez Caleb Parsley Mark French Blaine Brown Cade Bridgeman Camron Henry

Sr Fr Fr Sr So So Fr Fr So Fr Fr Fr Fr Jr Sr Fr Fr So Sr Fr Sr So Fr Sr

59 60 61 62 65 66 67 68 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 78 80 81 83 85 88 99

Justin Barnes Braylon Taylor Brandon Fuentaes Caleb Cryer Ethan Dyer Matthew Eaves Dylan Gillispie Cody Conway Aaron Stinson Braiden Lee Shawn Johnson Christian Dean Matthew Martin Andon Riggs Brent Lail Josh Hacker Ty Garrison Trent Denney Colton Raper Jaxon Lee Ty Clemens Christian Lemons

Jr Fr So Jr Fr Fr Fr Fr Fr Sr So Fr Sr So So Jr So Fr Fr Fr Sr Fr

Get your four-legged teammates game day ready! 712 P N.E. • Ardmore, OK

580-223-7355 or 800-311-3715

COME SEE US TODAY FOR ALL OF YOUR AGRICULTURAL NEEDS!

Play with

PRIDE!! M K

• Small Animal Medicine • Laser Surgery • In-House Grooming

Cade M. Wilson, D.V.M. Emily E. McCullough, D.V.M.

• Dentistry • Boarding

315 N. Rockford Road • Ardmore • 580.226.1001

40 THURSDAY, August 29, 2019

n The Ardmoreite n www.ardmoreite.com

Healdton

Ardmore

2417 Chickasaw Blvd (580) 226-2323

11049 State Hwy 76 (580) 229-2323

Durant

2825 University Blvd (580) 924-9911

McAlester

1101 East Wade Watts Ave (918) 426-6161

www.ideal-homecare.com

— THE —

WINNING

TEAM

Therapist

Care Givers

Nurses

You

Ideal Home Care was established with one goal

GOOD QUALITY CARE. At Ideal Home Care, we believe choosing the right home health agency is an important decision. We can assure you our patients will be treated with the compassion and respect they deserve.

C Y