By Cody Dalton
Asst. Sports Editor
While two teams will fight for the chance to be called Super Bowl champions in Tempe, Arizona on Feb. 3, UVa-Wise has its own piece of NFL history.
Carroll Dale, the current Asst. Vice Chancellor for Athletic Development, is a former NFL Pro Bowl wide receiver. Dale played in the first two AFL-NFL Championships, which later became the Super Bowl, in 1966 and 1967
Dale began playing in the NFL after attending Virginia Tech in 1960. He would be drafted by the Los Angeles Rams with the 86th pick in the 1960 NFL Draft.
During the five years that Dale spent with the Rams, he would endure no winning season. It was after his fifth season that things started to turn around.
“The five years I had with Los Angles were five years with five losing seasons,” Dale said. “I was rather upset with that. I was lucky and got traded to the Packers in 1965.”
The move from Los Angeles to Green Bay proved to be an advantageous one, as Dale would see immediate success with his new team.
“To come from a losing team and be part of a winning team was exhilarating,” Dale said. “I was very fortunate to be in Green Bay at the right time. To play for Coach Lombardi was a thrill as far as athletically and professionally speaking.”
Dale would immediately be coached by the future Hall of Famer Lombardi after being traded to Green Bay. Under Lombardi, Dale would learn humility and respect for his opponents.
“He taught us that we needed to respect our opponents and that they had some really good athletes,” Dale said. “He told us that we needed to be ready to play because we had this extra responsibility of representing the NFL against the AFL.”
This new found humility and preparation was certainly a key, as Dale and the Packers won the NFL World Championship in the 1965 season.
Following that season, the Packers would reach the first two AFL-NFL World Championships, now known as the Super Bowl. Dale would be a starter in both games, as an end and a flanker.
With guidance of two-time Super Bowl MVP Bart Starr, Dale and the Packers were able to defeat the Kansas City Chiefs, 35-10. The Packers made a return trip to the Super Bowl in 1967, defeating the Oakland Raiders 33-14.
Dale would play with the Packers until 1971, then with the Minnesota Vikings in 1972 before finally retiring from the game of football.
Ra’Shad Morgan, who is preparing for workouts and a potential trip to the NFL combine, shared his thoughts on having a Super Bowl winner on campus.
“It’s pretty cool to know that someone that’s involved in our program has achieved that amount of success,” Morgan said.
Another Cavs football player, Reggie Dorsainvil, offered his thoughts on having Dale here at UVa-Wise.
“He’s real special,” Dorsainvil said. “He knows what it takes to become successful so when he speaks to us during summer camp he lets us know
Today, the Super Bowl is viewed by 130 to 140 million people in the world every year and average ticket costs $4,451 dollars according to Stubhub.com. With the added media attention and marketing, Dale has seen a drastic change in the game from the first game in 1967 until now.
“We had to go back and re-kick so both networks (CBS and NBC) could have the kickoff,” Dale said. “The ticket prices were also 12-15 dollars a piece. So, the media coverage and ticket prices have changed a great deal. It is a different “animal” 42 years later than it was 42 years ago.”
The New York Giants will play against the undefeated New England Patriots in Super Bowl XLII on Feb. 3 on the Fox Network. Dale offers his prediction for the game.
“I think the Giants are a team that has a chance, but my opinion is that Belichick knows how to handle people and keep everything on an even perspective,” Dale said. “It should be a really good game, but my pick would be New England.”
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Wise rolls up the yards
The Highland Cavaliers enjoy another strong season and now hope to make the NAIA playoffs.
By Cody Dalton
Special to The Roanoke Times
WISE, Va. -- Take a trip down I-81 to Abingdon, then drive west for another hour and you will find a high-scoring football team at the University of Virginia-Wise.
The 14th-ranked Highland Cavaliers are not well known, but that is changing for the NAIA program founded in 1991.
Led by quarterback Randy Hippeard and tailback Ra'Shad Morgan, the Cavs are averaging 49.5 points per game and over 500 yards of total offense. At 9-2 overall and 3-1 in the Mid-South Conference after Saturday's 55-14 victory at West Virginia Tech, the Cavs are hoping they earned their third NAIA playoff appearance.
Playoff bid or not, UVa-Wise has emerged from four straight losing seasons to post consecutive winning seasons. Recognition for the program's turnaround can be attributed to many factors.
Credit for the crowd-pleasing high-scoring games -- several of which have been close -- begins with Hippeard and Morgan.
Hippeard has thrown for 3,455 yards and 37 touchdowns -- three of those TDs coming on Saturday's game -- and is already the school's all-time passing leader as a junior.
Morgan, last year's Dudley Award winner for small college players, leads the nation with 1,490 yards and 27 touchdowns -- he went for 181 and three TDs on Saturday. He is going for his second straight NAIA rushing title.
"I remember telling those guys four years ago after spring practice in the training room that they would have a major impact in shaping this program for the next three years," Cavs coach Bruce Wasem said. "It has certainly turned out to be that way. Their qualities and leadership sold what I believed in with people, family, and success not just on the field, but off the field as well."
The sometimes porous defense surrenders gives up 35.1 points per game, but the unit has strong leaders linbacker Ben Robertson at and end Reggie Dorsainvil -- the team's top two tacklers.
"When a big game happens, a lot of the younger guys look up to us," Robertson said.
"We are just trying to take them 'under our wing' and tell them not to worry about it. We know if we can play our game, then we can win."
The coaching staff has improved in six years under the Wasem's leadership. He started at Wise as an assistant coach when the program was begun.
Offensive coordinator Dewey Lusk was hired three years ago and took over the play-calling duties after 14 seasons as an assistant at Emory and Henry.
Wasem landed defensive coordinator Denny Compston four years ago. Compston is a veteran of six other small-college coaching staffs.
"We brought in two proven professionals," Wasem said. "They knew how to coach and how to recruit. They brought a tremendous amount to our program. It has made a big difference in recruiting and coaching."
Morgan loves the job the coordinators have done with their different approaches.
"Having both of them on the staff was something that we needed," Morgan said. "Coach Compston is a guy who takes his job serious and that reflects on the guys. Coach Lusk is a guy who is really laid back and a player's guy. Guys just really like to play for them."
Robertson said the third major building block to Wise's foundation are the facilities and the campus.
"That was the first thing I noticed when I came here," Robertson said. "I saw the weight room and the field we had, which stuck with me from the beginning. With us getting the equipment and being able to use it all, it has helped improve our game. It has been a great improvement and asset to the program."
Wasem has seen the program grow into one that draws recruits who now represent seven states, and he hopes that the lure of a winning team is only part of what brings them to Southwest Virginia.
"Kids want to go somewhere they know they can win," Wasem said. "That starts to make them look this way. I hope there are some other things that when they get here help to make them sold on our college. There are things that this campus offers, like a UVa education."
The Cavs will find out this afternoon if they will be part of the 16-team playoff that begins next Saturday
"It's important for these guys because [making the playoffs] was their goal coming into the season," Wasem said. "They have turned things around and got us close last season. It is important to make a stand."
By Cody Dalton
Special to The Roanoke Times
WISE, Va. -- Take a trip down I-81 to Abingdon, then drive west for another hour and you will find a high-scoring football team at the University of Virginia-Wise.
The 14th-ranked Highland Cavaliers are not well known, but that is changing for the NAIA program founded in 1991.
Led by quarterback Randy Hippeard and tailback Ra'Shad Morgan, the Cavs are averaging 49.5 points per game and over 500 yards of total offense. At 9-2 overall and 3-1 in the Mid-South Conference after Saturday's 55-14 victory at West Virginia Tech, the Cavs are hoping they earned their third NAIA playoff appearance.
Playoff bid or not, UVa-Wise has emerged from four straight losing seasons to post consecutive winning seasons. Recognition for the program's turnaround can be attributed to many factors.
Credit for the crowd-pleasing high-scoring games -- several of which have been close -- begins with Hippeard and Morgan.
Hippeard has thrown for 3,455 yards and 37 touchdowns -- three of those TDs coming on Saturday's game -- and is already the school's all-time passing leader as a junior.
Morgan, last year's Dudley Award winner for small college players, leads the nation with 1,490 yards and 27 touchdowns -- he went for 181 and three TDs on Saturday. He is going for his second straight NAIA rushing title.
"I remember telling those guys four years ago after spring practice in the training room that they would have a major impact in shaping this program for the next three years," Cavs coach Bruce Wasem said. "It has certainly turned out to be that way. Their qualities and leadership sold what I believed in with people, family, and success not just on the field, but off the field as well."
The sometimes porous defense surrenders gives up 35.1 points per game, but the unit has strong leaders linbacker Ben Robertson at and end Reggie Dorsainvil -- the team's top two tacklers.
"When a big game happens, a lot of the younger guys look up to us," Robertson said.
"We are just trying to take them 'under our wing' and tell them not to worry about it. We know if we can play our game, then we can win."
The coaching staff has improved in six years under the Wasem's leadership. He started at Wise as an assistant coach when the program was begun.
Offensive coordinator Dewey Lusk was hired three years ago and took over the play-calling duties after 14 seasons as an assistant at Emory and Henry.
Wasem landed defensive coordinator Denny Compston four years ago. Compston is a veteran of six other small-college coaching staffs.
"We brought in two proven professionals," Wasem said. "They knew how to coach and how to recruit. They brought a tremendous amount to our program. It has made a big difference in recruiting and coaching."
Morgan loves the job the coordinators have done with their different approaches.
"Having both of them on the staff was something that we needed," Morgan said. "Coach Compston is a guy who takes his job serious and that reflects on the guys. Coach Lusk is a guy who is really laid back and a player's guy. Guys just really like to play for them."
Robertson said the third major building block to Wise's foundation are the facilities and the campus.
"That was the first thing I noticed when I came here," Robertson said. "I saw the weight room and the field we had, which stuck with me from the beginning. With us getting the equipment and being able to use it all, it has helped improve our game. It has been a great improvement and asset to the program."
Wasem has seen the program grow into one that draws recruits who now represent seven states, and he hopes that the lure of a winning team is only part of what brings them to Southwest Virginia.
"Kids want to go somewhere they know they can win," Wasem said. "That starts to make them look this way. I hope there are some other things that when they get here help to make them sold on our college. There are things that this campus offers, like a UVa education."
The Cavs will find out this afternoon if they will be part of the 16-team playoff that begins next Saturday
"It's important for these guys because [making the playoffs] was their goal coming into the season," Wasem said. "They have turned things around and got us close last season. It is important to make a stand."
Viers to represent Cavs on U.S. National Team
By Cody Dalton
Staff Writer
NBA great Michael Jordan once said, “I’ve always believed if you put in the work, the results will come.”
The truth is that most athletes work their entire lives to showcase all of the talent they possess, but never do. However, one local UVA-Wise student will be doing just that on a very big stage in May.
Junior volleyball player Natasha Viers received word last week that she will be a participant and an ambassador for the USA Athletes International volleyball team this May. Viers will also play in the annual “Barbados vs. USA Friendship Volleyball Tour” that runs from May 31 through June 7.
“The feeling going to Barbados with team USA on the front of my jersey is one that I don’t think I can describe in words,” Viers said. “I’m thrilled and just really excited to play the game I love the most, as well as travel to Barbados.”
Viers, a physical education major, was selected by the USA Athletes International (USAAI) for her success on the volleyball court and in the classroom as well. She earned her second All-Academic team honors this season from the Appalachian Athletic Conference. For her play on the court, Viers also won All-NAIA Region XII team honors for the second time in her career, as well as All-Appalachian Athletic Conference first team.
“We were all very proud of her,” said sophomore teammate Kristen Salyer. “Tasha’s play on the court is very impressive. This says a lot about just how great of a player she is.”
USAAI, a non-profit organization that works in conjunction with the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) to promote athletic competition for athletes in volleyball and 12 other sports. This organization gives athletes not selected to the USA National team, a chance to have a similar experience.
An Abingdon, Virginia native, Viers has already began training for the trip she will embark on in May.
“I’m lifting weights three times a week early in the morning, conditioning, and trying to really watch what I eat,” Viers said. “It’s hard at times, but I know I’m doing all of this for the sport I love and it will pay off when I get down there.”
Fellow co-captain and senior Kate Daub had absolutely no doubts about Vier’s playing ability and why she was selected to the team.
“Natasha has always been an extremely talented athlete,” Daub said. “I always knew that she had the skills to do anything she put her mind too. We were all very proud that Natasha was selected.”
Viers said she was overwhelmed by the support she has received from her teammates and said that received this honor is a culmination of everything she has done since she starting playing volleyball.
“I feel like everything I’ve put in even since high school has led me to this wonderful experience,” Viers said. “I always dreamed of playing professional volleyball, but I never thought it would come true. All the 5 a.m. workouts, the running, and the stress have been well worth it.”
Staff Writer
NBA great Michael Jordan once said, “I’ve always believed if you put in the work, the results will come.”
The truth is that most athletes work their entire lives to showcase all of the talent they possess, but never do. However, one local UVA-Wise student will be doing just that on a very big stage in May.
Junior volleyball player Natasha Viers received word last week that she will be a participant and an ambassador for the USA Athletes International volleyball team this May. Viers will also play in the annual “Barbados vs. USA Friendship Volleyball Tour” that runs from May 31 through June 7.
“The feeling going to Barbados with team USA on the front of my jersey is one that I don’t think I can describe in words,” Viers said. “I’m thrilled and just really excited to play the game I love the most, as well as travel to Barbados.”
Viers, a physical education major, was selected by the USA Athletes International (USAAI) for her success on the volleyball court and in the classroom as well. She earned her second All-Academic team honors this season from the Appalachian Athletic Conference. For her play on the court, Viers also won All-NAIA Region XII team honors for the second time in her career, as well as All-Appalachian Athletic Conference first team.
“We were all very proud of her,” said sophomore teammate Kristen Salyer. “Tasha’s play on the court is very impressive. This says a lot about just how great of a player she is.”
USAAI, a non-profit organization that works in conjunction with the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) to promote athletic competition for athletes in volleyball and 12 other sports. This organization gives athletes not selected to the USA National team, a chance to have a similar experience.
An Abingdon, Virginia native, Viers has already began training for the trip she will embark on in May.
“I’m lifting weights three times a week early in the morning, conditioning, and trying to really watch what I eat,” Viers said. “It’s hard at times, but I know I’m doing all of this for the sport I love and it will pay off when I get down there.”
Fellow co-captain and senior Kate Daub had absolutely no doubts about Vier’s playing ability and why she was selected to the team.
“Natasha has always been an extremely talented athlete,” Daub said. “I always knew that she had the skills to do anything she put her mind too. We were all very proud that Natasha was selected.”
Viers said she was overwhelmed by the support she has received from her teammates and said that received this honor is a culmination of everything she has done since she starting playing volleyball.
“I feel like everything I’ve put in even since high school has led me to this wonderful experience,” Viers said. “I always dreamed of playing professional volleyball, but I never thought it would come true. All the 5 a.m. workouts, the running, and the stress have been well worth it.”
Titans overcome deficit, down Raiders
Cody Dalton
Sports Writer
NORTON – Twin Springs continued their winning ways of late with a victory in overtime, 62-61, against J.I. Burton on Monday.
After trailing most of the game, the Titans were able to overcome a third quarter deficit in regulation and hold on for the victory in overtime.
“I thought both teams played pretty good,” said Twin Springs coach John McCrary. “We kind of had our usual Monday stand around early in the game, but after we started to move around a little bit we played better.”
“It was one of those games that could have gone either way,” said Burton coach Stan Wilson. “We just didn’t play defense on Devon Matthews. He had a lot of the points that Twin Valley had. We just didn’t do the job.”
The first quarter was a slugfest between the two teams, as both teams traded blows on the offensive end.
In the second, Twin Springs was able to gain score at will, thanks in part to Devon Matthews. With the two teams tied at 15-15, Matthews would score once on a lay up and again by driving the entire court for the rebound and lay up.
Twin Springs advantage wouldn’t remain long, as the Raiders would gain control back. They would tie the game again at 17-17 with a lay up by Ethan Stewart and then score again with a tip by Pat Begley.
The two teams continued to trade baskets, but Twin Springs gained the advantage before break because of two jumpers by Cody Hall. The Titans took the 25-23 lead into the halftime break.
Though Twin Springs had the lead at the break, it wasn’t by much. The Raiders would close that small gap and the two teams were back to being even.
However, midway through the third quarter, Burton went on a run. With the score 32-32, the Raiders would play strong defense and get three straight scoring possessions. The lead was six points and the Titans took a timeout. Burton would extend their lead to seven before the third quarter ended.
While the Raiders had the lead, the Titans didn’t give up. Entering the fourth quarter, Twin Springs made a run of their own. They would score four of the game’s next five points, bringing the score to 44-40 and the Titan’s faithful to their feet.
The Raiders continued to post baskets though and keep themselves ahead of Twin Springs. However, it was free throws that helped the Titans keep themselves tight in the game.
With the score 47-44, Matthews would get the ball and make a crucial three and tie the game. The Twin Springs crowd went crazy and all the momentum was on the Titan’s side.
The Titans used that momentum to build a five point lead, 53-48, with just over a minute remaining in the game. With time running out, Burton coach Stan Wilson helped his team to manage and get close in the waning minutes. The Raiders would score on two occasions at the end of regulation and foul after the play.
Following a Burton three-pointer and foul, the Titan’s Trevor Criswell would make one of his two free throw attempts and give the Titans a 56-53 lead with just 11.3 seconds left in regulation.
Following the timeout, the Raiders worked the outside to get the best shot the could. Just as time expired, Devin Talley would find Pat Begley in the corner for the game-tying three-point basket. Begley led the Raiders with 19 points. The game was headed into overtime.
“He had a good look,” Wilson said. “He has been shooting pretty well from the three-point line.”
“I thought, ‘He isn’t going to make that one, is he?’ and he did,” said McCrary. “Begley is a good player. We had a hard time with him. We had a hard time matching up with him.”
In the overtime period, the story was the same as the beginning of the game. The two teams traded parting shots at one another with each individual possession.
With under a minute remaining, Begley hit one of his two free throws to give the Raiders a 61-60 lead. However, the Titans were patient and moved the ball to every player, looking for a shot.
Once again, it was Matthews who delivered for the Titans, as he scored the game’s last bucket with 11 seconds to go. The Raiders drove down the court, but kicked the ball into the backcourt as time expired.
After the game, Coach McCrary shared his thoughts on Matthews and Hall.
“They both played real well,” McCrary said. “Cody puts himself in jail sometimes with the dribble. He plays really hard. We are playing well at the right time.”
Coach Wilson sees the loss against Twin Springs as a lack of execution on the offensive end.
“We didn’t execute like we should have on offense,” Wilson said. “We didn’t do the things we needed to in order to win the game.”
Twin Springs 62, Burton 61
TWIN SPRINGS (62)
Matthews 28, Criswell 6, Jordan 4, Hall 18, Estep 6
BURTON (61)
Begley 19, Caudill 18, Hamilton 4, Hunnicutt 2, Talley 3, Stewart 15
Twin Springs 7 18 11 20 6 – 62
J.I. Burton 11 12 20 13 5 – 61
3-point goals – Twin Springs 3 (Matthews 2, Criswell), Burton 3 (Begley, Caudill, Talley)
Sports Writer
NORTON – Twin Springs continued their winning ways of late with a victory in overtime, 62-61, against J.I. Burton on Monday.
After trailing most of the game, the Titans were able to overcome a third quarter deficit in regulation and hold on for the victory in overtime.
“I thought both teams played pretty good,” said Twin Springs coach John McCrary. “We kind of had our usual Monday stand around early in the game, but after we started to move around a little bit we played better.”
“It was one of those games that could have gone either way,” said Burton coach Stan Wilson. “We just didn’t play defense on Devon Matthews. He had a lot of the points that Twin Valley had. We just didn’t do the job.”
The first quarter was a slugfest between the two teams, as both teams traded blows on the offensive end.
In the second, Twin Springs was able to gain score at will, thanks in part to Devon Matthews. With the two teams tied at 15-15, Matthews would score once on a lay up and again by driving the entire court for the rebound and lay up.
Twin Springs advantage wouldn’t remain long, as the Raiders would gain control back. They would tie the game again at 17-17 with a lay up by Ethan Stewart and then score again with a tip by Pat Begley.
The two teams continued to trade baskets, but Twin Springs gained the advantage before break because of two jumpers by Cody Hall. The Titans took the 25-23 lead into the halftime break.
Though Twin Springs had the lead at the break, it wasn’t by much. The Raiders would close that small gap and the two teams were back to being even.
However, midway through the third quarter, Burton went on a run. With the score 32-32, the Raiders would play strong defense and get three straight scoring possessions. The lead was six points and the Titans took a timeout. Burton would extend their lead to seven before the third quarter ended.
While the Raiders had the lead, the Titans didn’t give up. Entering the fourth quarter, Twin Springs made a run of their own. They would score four of the game’s next five points, bringing the score to 44-40 and the Titan’s faithful to their feet.
The Raiders continued to post baskets though and keep themselves ahead of Twin Springs. However, it was free throws that helped the Titans keep themselves tight in the game.
With the score 47-44, Matthews would get the ball and make a crucial three and tie the game. The Twin Springs crowd went crazy and all the momentum was on the Titan’s side.
The Titans used that momentum to build a five point lead, 53-48, with just over a minute remaining in the game. With time running out, Burton coach Stan Wilson helped his team to manage and get close in the waning minutes. The Raiders would score on two occasions at the end of regulation and foul after the play.
Following a Burton three-pointer and foul, the Titan’s Trevor Criswell would make one of his two free throw attempts and give the Titans a 56-53 lead with just 11.3 seconds left in regulation.
Following the timeout, the Raiders worked the outside to get the best shot the could. Just as time expired, Devin Talley would find Pat Begley in the corner for the game-tying three-point basket. Begley led the Raiders with 19 points. The game was headed into overtime.
“He had a good look,” Wilson said. “He has been shooting pretty well from the three-point line.”
“I thought, ‘He isn’t going to make that one, is he?’ and he did,” said McCrary. “Begley is a good player. We had a hard time with him. We had a hard time matching up with him.”
In the overtime period, the story was the same as the beginning of the game. The two teams traded parting shots at one another with each individual possession.
With under a minute remaining, Begley hit one of his two free throws to give the Raiders a 61-60 lead. However, the Titans were patient and moved the ball to every player, looking for a shot.
Once again, it was Matthews who delivered for the Titans, as he scored the game’s last bucket with 11 seconds to go. The Raiders drove down the court, but kicked the ball into the backcourt as time expired.
After the game, Coach McCrary shared his thoughts on Matthews and Hall.
“They both played real well,” McCrary said. “Cody puts himself in jail sometimes with the dribble. He plays really hard. We are playing well at the right time.”
Coach Wilson sees the loss against Twin Springs as a lack of execution on the offensive end.
“We didn’t execute like we should have on offense,” Wilson said. “We didn’t do the things we needed to in order to win the game.”
Twin Springs 62, Burton 61
TWIN SPRINGS (62)
Matthews 28, Criswell 6, Jordan 4, Hall 18, Estep 6
BURTON (61)
Begley 19, Caudill 18, Hamilton 4, Hunnicutt 2, Talley 3, Stewart 15
Twin Springs 7 18 11 20 6 – 62
J.I. Burton 11 12 20 13 5 – 61
3-point goals – Twin Springs 3 (Matthews 2, Criswell), Burton 3 (Begley, Caudill, Talley)
Pound girls stun Appalachia, Boys pick up win against Wildcats
Cody Dalton
Sports Writer
APPALACHIA – Appalachia and Pound split their games against one another in Lonesome Pine District action on Friday.
The opening contest saw the Lady Wildcats (10-7, 2-3) stun Appalachia (8-6, 1-4), after a three point shot from Samantha Balthis connected as time expired, 41-40.
The Appalachia boys (9-5, 2-3) earned their victory over Pound (2-15, 1-4) through a hot shooting night. The Bulldogs hit 10 three point baskets, including 3 from Devin Brickey, to seal an 80-33 Lonesome Pine District victory.
BUZZER BEATER GIVES WILDCATS VICTORY
In a game that saw a lot of fouls and turnovers, it was Pound’s Samantha Balthis hitting a three as time expired to give the Wildcat’s a 41-40 LPD victory over the Appalachia Bulldogs.
“This game was a struggle down to the end” said Pound coach Debbi Hale. “We were fortunate to get that three. Neither one of our teams had a really good game. We both struggled both ways and had a lot of turnovers.”
“I thought it was an ugly ball game on both sides,” said Appalachia coach Angela Honeycutt. “We missed too many opportunities and didn’t hit our foul shots. We aren’t a very smart ball club either. We’ve got to play smarter ball and that’s the key.”
Both teams remained close early on in the contest, as Brittany Craft would score the Lady Bulldogs first five points.
Pound had an answer for Craft in the form of Katie Stallard. She would score two baskets of her own. After one quarter, the score was deadlocked at 5-5.
The second quarter so a lot more points than the first. The two teams remained basically dead even. Just before halftime, Pound would go on a 4-0 run to give them a slight lead at 12-11.
Coming out of the halftime break, both teams would continue to remain tight. Appalachia would gain momentum and a lead towards the middle of the quarter. With the score 21-19 in favor of Appalachia, the Lady Bulldogs would go on a 6-0 run and gain the biggest lead of the game.
However, by the end of the quarter, Pound had closed the deficit to just one point, 30-29.
The Lady Wildcats were led by Kayla Balthis, who had 15 points.
Both teams would once again answer each other, basket for basket. However, Appalachia would get two key fouls, make four free throws, and a lay up to give them a five point advantage.
With just over a minute remaining, the Bulldog’s Lauren Howard would score a crucial lay up to make the lead 40-37 and looked to put the game away for good.
However, the Wildcats didn’t give up despite the score. After a made foul shot cut the lead to 40-38, Pound had no choice, but to foul. Fortunately for them, both were missed.
The Wildcat’s moved the ball around with just under 15 seconds to go looking for a shot. Just before the buzzer sounded, Samantha Balthis would shoot and make a three from the corner to give Pound the 41-40 victory.
“The only thing I could think of is that we have to score,” Samantha Balthis said. “I got the ball, shot it, and made it. I feel ten times bigger than I am right now and that says a lot.”
After the game, coach Hale commented on Balthis and the three point shot to win the game.
“She is the one that can hit them,” Hale said. “She leads our team in three pointers. She hit a couple in the game prior to that too.”
HOT SHOOTING GUIDES BULLDOGS TO WIN
In the second game of the night, Appalachia used hot three point shooting to get out to a large lead and stay ahead, beating Pound 80-33.
“Obviously, we played really well, but we are strong where Pound is weak,” said Appalachia coach Pat Jervis. “We get up and down the floor, while they have a strong team. It was a matter of whether they could get us in a half court game or we could get them in a full court game.”
Appalachia used their speed to set the tempo for the game. The first quarter saw the Bulldogs connect on many of their shots while hustling down the floor and pull out to a 15-6 lead after the opening stanza.
Pound continued to play to their inside strength with Erik Bolling. Bolling led the Wildcats with 11 points on the night.
While the Wildcats were within just nine points of Appalachia, the Bulldogs continued to press and run the floor at will. The used a huge 27 point second quarter to jump out to a 42-20.halftime lead.
The second half saw the same as the first, with the Bulldogs moving quickly and spreading the ball around to every player on the court. Eight players scored for the Bulldogs.
Appalachia was nearly perfect from three point range as well. Devin Brickey hit 3 three point shots and scored 15 points. Forrest Stuart and Tyler Hall led Appalachia with 16 points a piece. Both also connected on 2 three pointers in the game.
The fourth quarter marked another big shooting performance by Appalachia, which sealed a 80-33 Lonesome Pine District win.
After the game, coach Jervis complimented his team on their great shooting performance.
“If we shoot well, we can beat just about anybody,” Jervis said. “If we aren’t hitting those outside shots, we are in a world of hurt. Tonight we hit them, played well, and got some steals. We played to our strength tonight and that was the key to the game.”
Pound coach Jack Hamilton declined comment on the game.
BOX SCORES
GIRLS –
Pound (41)
K. Balthis 4 7-11 15, Isaac 0 2-3 2, K. Stallard 5 1-3 11, C. Stallard 0 1-2 5, S. Balthis 3 3-4 12
TOTAL 12 14-23 41
Appalachia (40)
Boyd 0 3-8 3, Craft 4 10-13 18, Estridge 2 2-3 7, Boggs 1 0-0 2, Howard 3 0-1 6, Mullins 2 0-2 4
TOTAL 12 15-27 40
Pound 5 7 17 11 41
Appalachia 5 6 19 10 40
Three-point goals: Appalachia 1 (Estridge); Pound 3 (S. Balthis)
BOYS –
Appalachia (80)
Hall 5 4-4 16, B. Allen 5 2-2 14, F. Stuart 5 4-6 16, Boyd 1 0-2 3, Brickey 6 0-0 15, J. Allen 4 1-1 9, Morelock 1 1-2 3, M. Stuart 0 4-4 4
Pound (33)
Hughes 0 1-2 1, Beverly 1 0-0 2, Mullins 2 0-0 5, Keith 1 0-0 2, Logan 1 0-0 2, Bolling 5 1-1 10, Taylor 2 1-2 6, Branham 1 2-5 4
Pound 6 14 4 9 33
Appalachia 15 27 12 26 80
Three-point goals: Appalachia 10 (Brickey 3, T. Hall 2, Allen 2, F. Stuart 2, Boyd); Pound (Mullins 1, Taylor 1)
Sports Writer
APPALACHIA – Appalachia and Pound split their games against one another in Lonesome Pine District action on Friday.
The opening contest saw the Lady Wildcats (10-7, 2-3) stun Appalachia (8-6, 1-4), after a three point shot from Samantha Balthis connected as time expired, 41-40.
The Appalachia boys (9-5, 2-3) earned their victory over Pound (2-15, 1-4) through a hot shooting night. The Bulldogs hit 10 three point baskets, including 3 from Devin Brickey, to seal an 80-33 Lonesome Pine District victory.
BUZZER BEATER GIVES WILDCATS VICTORY
In a game that saw a lot of fouls and turnovers, it was Pound’s Samantha Balthis hitting a three as time expired to give the Wildcat’s a 41-40 LPD victory over the Appalachia Bulldogs.
“This game was a struggle down to the end” said Pound coach Debbi Hale. “We were fortunate to get that three. Neither one of our teams had a really good game. We both struggled both ways and had a lot of turnovers.”
“I thought it was an ugly ball game on both sides,” said Appalachia coach Angela Honeycutt. “We missed too many opportunities and didn’t hit our foul shots. We aren’t a very smart ball club either. We’ve got to play smarter ball and that’s the key.”
Both teams remained close early on in the contest, as Brittany Craft would score the Lady Bulldogs first five points.
Pound had an answer for Craft in the form of Katie Stallard. She would score two baskets of her own. After one quarter, the score was deadlocked at 5-5.
The second quarter so a lot more points than the first. The two teams remained basically dead even. Just before halftime, Pound would go on a 4-0 run to give them a slight lead at 12-11.
Coming out of the halftime break, both teams would continue to remain tight. Appalachia would gain momentum and a lead towards the middle of the quarter. With the score 21-19 in favor of Appalachia, the Lady Bulldogs would go on a 6-0 run and gain the biggest lead of the game.
However, by the end of the quarter, Pound had closed the deficit to just one point, 30-29.
The Lady Wildcats were led by Kayla Balthis, who had 15 points.
Both teams would once again answer each other, basket for basket. However, Appalachia would get two key fouls, make four free throws, and a lay up to give them a five point advantage.
With just over a minute remaining, the Bulldog’s Lauren Howard would score a crucial lay up to make the lead 40-37 and looked to put the game away for good.
However, the Wildcats didn’t give up despite the score. After a made foul shot cut the lead to 40-38, Pound had no choice, but to foul. Fortunately for them, both were missed.
The Wildcat’s moved the ball around with just under 15 seconds to go looking for a shot. Just before the buzzer sounded, Samantha Balthis would shoot and make a three from the corner to give Pound the 41-40 victory.
“The only thing I could think of is that we have to score,” Samantha Balthis said. “I got the ball, shot it, and made it. I feel ten times bigger than I am right now and that says a lot.”
After the game, coach Hale commented on Balthis and the three point shot to win the game.
“She is the one that can hit them,” Hale said. “She leads our team in three pointers. She hit a couple in the game prior to that too.”
HOT SHOOTING GUIDES BULLDOGS TO WIN
In the second game of the night, Appalachia used hot three point shooting to get out to a large lead and stay ahead, beating Pound 80-33.
“Obviously, we played really well, but we are strong where Pound is weak,” said Appalachia coach Pat Jervis. “We get up and down the floor, while they have a strong team. It was a matter of whether they could get us in a half court game or we could get them in a full court game.”
Appalachia used their speed to set the tempo for the game. The first quarter saw the Bulldogs connect on many of their shots while hustling down the floor and pull out to a 15-6 lead after the opening stanza.
Pound continued to play to their inside strength with Erik Bolling. Bolling led the Wildcats with 11 points on the night.
While the Wildcats were within just nine points of Appalachia, the Bulldogs continued to press and run the floor at will. The used a huge 27 point second quarter to jump out to a 42-20.halftime lead.
The second half saw the same as the first, with the Bulldogs moving quickly and spreading the ball around to every player on the court. Eight players scored for the Bulldogs.
Appalachia was nearly perfect from three point range as well. Devin Brickey hit 3 three point shots and scored 15 points. Forrest Stuart and Tyler Hall led Appalachia with 16 points a piece. Both also connected on 2 three pointers in the game.
The fourth quarter marked another big shooting performance by Appalachia, which sealed a 80-33 Lonesome Pine District win.
After the game, coach Jervis complimented his team on their great shooting performance.
“If we shoot well, we can beat just about anybody,” Jervis said. “If we aren’t hitting those outside shots, we are in a world of hurt. Tonight we hit them, played well, and got some steals. We played to our strength tonight and that was the key to the game.”
Pound coach Jack Hamilton declined comment on the game.
BOX SCORES
GIRLS –
Pound (41)
K. Balthis 4 7-11 15, Isaac 0 2-3 2, K. Stallard 5 1-3 11, C. Stallard 0 1-2 5, S. Balthis 3 3-4 12
TOTAL 12 14-23 41
Appalachia (40)
Boyd 0 3-8 3, Craft 4 10-13 18, Estridge 2 2-3 7, Boggs 1 0-0 2, Howard 3 0-1 6, Mullins 2 0-2 4
TOTAL 12 15-27 40
Pound 5 7 17 11 41
Appalachia 5 6 19 10 40
Three-point goals: Appalachia 1 (Estridge); Pound 3 (S. Balthis)
BOYS –
Appalachia (80)
Hall 5 4-4 16, B. Allen 5 2-2 14, F. Stuart 5 4-6 16, Boyd 1 0-2 3, Brickey 6 0-0 15, J. Allen 4 1-1 9, Morelock 1 1-2 3, M. Stuart 0 4-4 4
Pound (33)
Hughes 0 1-2 1, Beverly 1 0-0 2, Mullins 2 0-0 5, Keith 1 0-0 2, Logan 1 0-0 2, Bolling 5 1-1 10, Taylor 2 1-2 6, Branham 1 2-5 4
Pound 6 14 4 9 33
Appalachia 15 27 12 26 80
Three-point goals: Appalachia 10 (Brickey 3, T. Hall 2, Allen 2, F. Stuart 2, Boyd); Pound (Mullins 1, Taylor 1)
Blue Devils, Rebels advance to Cumberland District final
CASTLEWOOD – Castlewood and Ervinton punched their tickets to the Cumberland District Tournament final with wins on Thursday night.
Castlewood (16-7, 12-0) used a strong scoring fourth quarter to end an upset bid by Rye Cove (11-12, 5-7). The Blue Devils scored 23 points in the fourth to advance to the Cumberland District Tournament championship game.
The Blue Devils will meet Ervinton (14-9, 9-3), who defeated Thomas Walker (9-14, 7-5) in the second game. The Rebels used tough defense early and free throw shooting late in the game to hold off a tough Thomas Walker squad.
BLUE DEVILS HOLD ON
Castlewood and Rye Cove started their contest off slow, with both teams only scoring ten combined points in the opening quarter. The Blue Devils led 7-3 after one quarter.
However, in the second quarter, things would pick up extremely fast. Both teams rushed up and down the court at an extremely fast pace. The two teams kept pace with one another despite the fast tempo of the game, as Castlewood held the 22-18 lead at the halftime break.
In the third quarter, the Lady Eagles would break open the game. Michelle Hutchins would score eight of her ten points in the third game. The Eagles scored 22 points in the quarter and they would go into the final quarter with the 40-37 lead.
The Blue Devils would answer that 22 with 23 of their own in the fourth quarter. Lorren Evans would score 11 of her game-high 24 points in the quarter.
A special moment also came for Evans, who eclipsed the 1,000 point mark for her career at Castlewood. Moments later, fellow teammate Kayla Gordon would also reach the 1,000 point plateau.
Motivated by the moment, Castlewood outscored the Lady Eagles, 14-5 in the waning moments of the game.
As both Evans and Gordon left the court towards the end of the game, they were embraced by their coach, Barry Ruff.
“That is something that doesn’t happen very often,” Ruff said. “I’m really proud of those two and the whole team in general. I couldn’t have scripted that any better. I am proud of their records.”
Rye Cove coach Jamie Carter was disappointed with the loss against Castlewood, but he was pleased with his team’s effort during the game.
“I think we did well for three quarters,” Carter said. “We gave up a lot of points there in the fourth quarter. That is twice where I feel like we’ve outplayed them for three quarters and then let it go in the fourth. The effort was good. I was happy with that.”
Now that the game between the two teams is over, both Carter and Ruff now look forward to their next match ups on Saturday.
“Those points make a difference in how we are seeded in the region,” Carter said. “I think the region is wide open. The overall play is close to equal. We look forward to that.”
“Hopefully we can go in and win this game and tournament on Saturday,” Ruff said. “We won last year’s tournament too. This should be really interesting.”
ERVINTON ADVANCES TO CHAMPIONSHIP GAME
Ervinton started out their game against Thomas Walker extremely strong, as the Rebels connected on two early three-point shots. The Pioneers played close as the quarter closed with a 10-7 Ervinton lead.
However, that close game wouldn’t last long, as the Rebels burst out of the gate in quarter two. From the waning moments of the first quarter all the way into the beginning of the second, Ervinton would go on an 11-0 scoring run. The Rebels had a commanding 18-7 lead.
Jessica Burke would help get the Pioneers back in the game, as she scored on three straight possessions. Her efforts helped Thomas Walker crawl to within four points, 20-16. The half closed with the same deficit, as Ervinton lead 23-19.
In the second half, Thomas Walker overcame the offensive woes that had in the first half. Tiffany Gibson would start to get into a rhythm, as the post player scored seven of the team’s 13 third quarter points.
The effort wouldn’t be enough though, as Ervinton would keep pace in the second half and play tough physical defense. The Rebels locked up the game and a date against Castlewood for the District Tournament championship.
“We just never could get our offense rolling like we should have,” said Thomas Walker coach Janet Nelson. “We got Tiffany [Gibson] going in the second half, but she just couldn’t seem to get us out of the hole we were in. Our other shots weren’t falling either. We did a good job when we could play the zone on them,. Our help just wasn’t there.”
“I thought our ladies played really good defense tonight,” said Ervinton coach Rodney Compton. “We had to go to a zone there in the third quarter. Thomas Walker started to get some threes then. When we switched over to man, that gave us our defense back. That was a big key to our win tonight.”
Nelson talked after the game about the chance to rebound in their game against Rye Cove on Saturday.
“We beat Rye Cove by one and they’ve beat us by one,” Nelson said. “They are playing really well right now. We need to step up and play better than our last two games here. Typically, we play a good game against Rye Cove, but we have to play better than we did tonight.”
While those teams play in the consolation game, Compton really looks forward to his game against Castlewood and a possible Cumberland District Tournament title.
“We are really looking forward to it,” Compton said. “They beat us twice in the regular season, but both of those were close ball games. We were hoping we’d get another chance at them. Now we have that chance. Hopefully we will have a different outcome. We’ll do the best we can do.”
Castlewood 60, Rye Cove 51
RYE COVE (51)
Gibson 6, hood 11, Hutchins 10, Carter 6, Edwards 6, McDavid 12
CASTLEWOOD (60)
Evans 24, Counts 2, Addington 4, Gordon 24, Wohlford 5, Hall 1
Rye Cove 3 15 22 11 51
Castlewood 7 14 14 23 60
3-point goals – Rye Cove 2 (Edwards 2), Castlewood 3 (Gordon 3)
Ervinton 58, Thomas Walker 48
ERVINTON (58)
Spangler 2, Mullins 4, Bond 7, McCoy 7, Farmer 8, Rasnick 18, Hill 12
THOMAS WALKER (48)
Isaacs 6, Jes. Burke 15, Jen. Burke 5, Moles 4, Gibson 18
Ervinton 10 13 17 18 58
Thomas Walker 7 12 13 16 48
3-point goals – Ervinton 3 (Mullins 1, Bond 1, McCoy 1), Thomas Walker 3 (Isaacs 2, Moles 1)
Castlewood (16-7, 12-0) used a strong scoring fourth quarter to end an upset bid by Rye Cove (11-12, 5-7). The Blue Devils scored 23 points in the fourth to advance to the Cumberland District Tournament championship game.
The Blue Devils will meet Ervinton (14-9, 9-3), who defeated Thomas Walker (9-14, 7-5) in the second game. The Rebels used tough defense early and free throw shooting late in the game to hold off a tough Thomas Walker squad.
BLUE DEVILS HOLD ON
Castlewood and Rye Cove started their contest off slow, with both teams only scoring ten combined points in the opening quarter. The Blue Devils led 7-3 after one quarter.
However, in the second quarter, things would pick up extremely fast. Both teams rushed up and down the court at an extremely fast pace. The two teams kept pace with one another despite the fast tempo of the game, as Castlewood held the 22-18 lead at the halftime break.
In the third quarter, the Lady Eagles would break open the game. Michelle Hutchins would score eight of her ten points in the third game. The Eagles scored 22 points in the quarter and they would go into the final quarter with the 40-37 lead.
The Blue Devils would answer that 22 with 23 of their own in the fourth quarter. Lorren Evans would score 11 of her game-high 24 points in the quarter.
A special moment also came for Evans, who eclipsed the 1,000 point mark for her career at Castlewood. Moments later, fellow teammate Kayla Gordon would also reach the 1,000 point plateau.
Motivated by the moment, Castlewood outscored the Lady Eagles, 14-5 in the waning moments of the game.
As both Evans and Gordon left the court towards the end of the game, they were embraced by their coach, Barry Ruff.
“That is something that doesn’t happen very often,” Ruff said. “I’m really proud of those two and the whole team in general. I couldn’t have scripted that any better. I am proud of their records.”
Rye Cove coach Jamie Carter was disappointed with the loss against Castlewood, but he was pleased with his team’s effort during the game.
“I think we did well for three quarters,” Carter said. “We gave up a lot of points there in the fourth quarter. That is twice where I feel like we’ve outplayed them for three quarters and then let it go in the fourth. The effort was good. I was happy with that.”
Now that the game between the two teams is over, both Carter and Ruff now look forward to their next match ups on Saturday.
“Those points make a difference in how we are seeded in the region,” Carter said. “I think the region is wide open. The overall play is close to equal. We look forward to that.”
“Hopefully we can go in and win this game and tournament on Saturday,” Ruff said. “We won last year’s tournament too. This should be really interesting.”
ERVINTON ADVANCES TO CHAMPIONSHIP GAME
Ervinton started out their game against Thomas Walker extremely strong, as the Rebels connected on two early three-point shots. The Pioneers played close as the quarter closed with a 10-7 Ervinton lead.
However, that close game wouldn’t last long, as the Rebels burst out of the gate in quarter two. From the waning moments of the first quarter all the way into the beginning of the second, Ervinton would go on an 11-0 scoring run. The Rebels had a commanding 18-7 lead.
Jessica Burke would help get the Pioneers back in the game, as she scored on three straight possessions. Her efforts helped Thomas Walker crawl to within four points, 20-16. The half closed with the same deficit, as Ervinton lead 23-19.
In the second half, Thomas Walker overcame the offensive woes that had in the first half. Tiffany Gibson would start to get into a rhythm, as the post player scored seven of the team’s 13 third quarter points.
The effort wouldn’t be enough though, as Ervinton would keep pace in the second half and play tough physical defense. The Rebels locked up the game and a date against Castlewood for the District Tournament championship.
“We just never could get our offense rolling like we should have,” said Thomas Walker coach Janet Nelson. “We got Tiffany [Gibson] going in the second half, but she just couldn’t seem to get us out of the hole we were in. Our other shots weren’t falling either. We did a good job when we could play the zone on them,. Our help just wasn’t there.”
“I thought our ladies played really good defense tonight,” said Ervinton coach Rodney Compton. “We had to go to a zone there in the third quarter. Thomas Walker started to get some threes then. When we switched over to man, that gave us our defense back. That was a big key to our win tonight.”
Nelson talked after the game about the chance to rebound in their game against Rye Cove on Saturday.
“We beat Rye Cove by one and they’ve beat us by one,” Nelson said. “They are playing really well right now. We need to step up and play better than our last two games here. Typically, we play a good game against Rye Cove, but we have to play better than we did tonight.”
While those teams play in the consolation game, Compton really looks forward to his game against Castlewood and a possible Cumberland District Tournament title.
“We are really looking forward to it,” Compton said. “They beat us twice in the regular season, but both of those were close ball games. We were hoping we’d get another chance at them. Now we have that chance. Hopefully we will have a different outcome. We’ll do the best we can do.”
Castlewood 60, Rye Cove 51
RYE COVE (51)
Gibson 6, hood 11, Hutchins 10, Carter 6, Edwards 6, McDavid 12
CASTLEWOOD (60)
Evans 24, Counts 2, Addington 4, Gordon 24, Wohlford 5, Hall 1
Rye Cove 3 15 22 11 51
Castlewood 7 14 14 23 60
3-point goals – Rye Cove 2 (Edwards 2), Castlewood 3 (Gordon 3)
Ervinton 58, Thomas Walker 48
ERVINTON (58)
Spangler 2, Mullins 4, Bond 7, McCoy 7, Farmer 8, Rasnick 18, Hill 12
THOMAS WALKER (48)
Isaacs 6, Jes. Burke 15, Jen. Burke 5, Moles 4, Gibson 18
Ervinton 10 13 17 18 58
Thomas Walker 7 12 13 16 48
3-point goals – Ervinton 3 (Mullins 1, Bond 1, McCoy 1), Thomas Walker 3 (Isaacs 2, Moles 1)
Total team effort leads Raiders past Pound
Cody Dalton
Sports Writer
Pound – With touchdowns on all sides of the ball, J.I. Burton cruised past Pound, 55-14, in Lonesome Pine District play on Friday.
The Raiders (6-0, 4-0) started the first half with a bang. After a Pound punt, Burton would get on the board, as running back Jaycob Coleman ran 33 yards for a touchdown. The two point conversion was good and Burton had the early 8-0 lead.
Following a Jaymil Sensabaugh interception, Burton would get the ball back. On the second play of the drive, Martinez Miles ran for a 15 yard touchdown.
Pound would once again be held to a three and out. They would punt, but Coleman would again shine, as he returned the punt 54 yards for the touchdown. Coleman led the Raiders with 62 yards rushing and three touchdowns (one for a punt return).
Before the end of the first quarter, Miles would score again, on a five yard run. At the end of one quarter, Burton led 30-0.
After a Pound interception at the end of the first, Coleman would score again on a 34 yard run.
Pound would get the ball back. On the very first play of the drive, Burton would suffer a huge loss, as Jaycob Coleman would be injured on the play. With the help of his coaches, he was helped off the field and did not return.
Coleman wouldn’t be the only casualty. On the very next play, Pound quarterback Nathaniel Mullins would throw an interception to Devin Talley, who returned it 84 yards for the touchdown.
Mullins would attempt to tackle Talley, but was injured. He lay motionless on the ground for a short period of time. He would taken off the field on a stretcher and in to an ambulance.
To end the half, Burton would score once more on a Josh Miles 10 yard run. The score at halftime was 49-0 in favor of the Raiders.
Coming out of the halftime break, the Pound players came out fired up and eager to get on to the board. They would drive the ball 72 yards, which resulted in an Erik Bolling 1-yard run.
The two teams would exchange possession once, before Burton received ball again. For the final time in the third quarter, Burton would score on a 75 yard run by Devin Talley.
The final score of the game came on a 19 yard run senior running back Chris Hughes. Burton took the game, 55-14.
Coach Jimbo Adams seemed pleased with his team’s total effort on all sides of the ball.
“I think we came out with energy in all phases,” Adams said. “Defense set the tone in the first of the game. It carried over into special teams. We had both a defensive score and a special team’s score. That is what we challenged them to do. Play for each other and come out and play hard early.”
Despite what was on the scoreboard, Pound coach Chris Crabtree is pleased with overall effort of his players.
“The score doesn’t indicate it, but this is the hardest that we have played all year,” Crabtree said. “I thought that our boys gave the best they could and didn’t shy away or back down. We just couldn’t catch them. Playing as a team, this is the best we have played all year.”
Crabtree gave his evaluation about the injury of his Nathaniel Mullins, but didn’t have complete answers.
“We know it is a hip injury, but aren’t sure how extensive it is,” Crabtree said. “That was on a late hit on a pass. He had also suffered a knee injury from running into the wall. We don’t know, but we are going to go check on him.”
Adams also had an update on the injury of Jaycob Coleman and was optimistic about his injury not be significant.
“From talking to him, I am thinking it is hyper extended or it might have popped out,” Adams said. “Either way, I don’t think it is serious. We won’t know until we get back. That is just my gut feeling from talking to him.”
Both teams will be on the road next week as Pound journeys to Twin Valley, while Burton travels to Honaker.
Sports Writer
Pound – With touchdowns on all sides of the ball, J.I. Burton cruised past Pound, 55-14, in Lonesome Pine District play on Friday.
The Raiders (6-0, 4-0) started the first half with a bang. After a Pound punt, Burton would get on the board, as running back Jaycob Coleman ran 33 yards for a touchdown. The two point conversion was good and Burton had the early 8-0 lead.
Following a Jaymil Sensabaugh interception, Burton would get the ball back. On the second play of the drive, Martinez Miles ran for a 15 yard touchdown.
Pound would once again be held to a three and out. They would punt, but Coleman would again shine, as he returned the punt 54 yards for the touchdown. Coleman led the Raiders with 62 yards rushing and three touchdowns (one for a punt return).
Before the end of the first quarter, Miles would score again, on a five yard run. At the end of one quarter, Burton led 30-0.
After a Pound interception at the end of the first, Coleman would score again on a 34 yard run.
Pound would get the ball back. On the very first play of the drive, Burton would suffer a huge loss, as Jaycob Coleman would be injured on the play. With the help of his coaches, he was helped off the field and did not return.
Coleman wouldn’t be the only casualty. On the very next play, Pound quarterback Nathaniel Mullins would throw an interception to Devin Talley, who returned it 84 yards for the touchdown.
Mullins would attempt to tackle Talley, but was injured. He lay motionless on the ground for a short period of time. He would taken off the field on a stretcher and in to an ambulance.
To end the half, Burton would score once more on a Josh Miles 10 yard run. The score at halftime was 49-0 in favor of the Raiders.
Coming out of the halftime break, the Pound players came out fired up and eager to get on to the board. They would drive the ball 72 yards, which resulted in an Erik Bolling 1-yard run.
The two teams would exchange possession once, before Burton received ball again. For the final time in the third quarter, Burton would score on a 75 yard run by Devin Talley.
The final score of the game came on a 19 yard run senior running back Chris Hughes. Burton took the game, 55-14.
Coach Jimbo Adams seemed pleased with his team’s total effort on all sides of the ball.
“I think we came out with energy in all phases,” Adams said. “Defense set the tone in the first of the game. It carried over into special teams. We had both a defensive score and a special team’s score. That is what we challenged them to do. Play for each other and come out and play hard early.”
Despite what was on the scoreboard, Pound coach Chris Crabtree is pleased with overall effort of his players.
“The score doesn’t indicate it, but this is the hardest that we have played all year,” Crabtree said. “I thought that our boys gave the best they could and didn’t shy away or back down. We just couldn’t catch them. Playing as a team, this is the best we have played all year.”
Crabtree gave his evaluation about the injury of his Nathaniel Mullins, but didn’t have complete answers.
“We know it is a hip injury, but aren’t sure how extensive it is,” Crabtree said. “That was on a late hit on a pass. He had also suffered a knee injury from running into the wall. We don’t know, but we are going to go check on him.”
Adams also had an update on the injury of Jaycob Coleman and was optimistic about his injury not be significant.
“From talking to him, I am thinking it is hyper extended or it might have popped out,” Adams said. “Either way, I don’t think it is serious. We won’t know until we get back. That is just my gut feeling from talking to him.”
Both teams will be on the road next week as Pound journeys to Twin Valley, while Burton travels to Honaker.
Sproles leads Indians in big homecoming win over Grundy
Cody Dalton
Sports Writer
Wise – The J.J. Kelly Indians celebrated homecoming in style, as they started off strong and finished strong against Grundy, winning 44-6 at Carroll Dale Stadium.
The Indians (4-1, 1-1) were led on both sides of the ball by Devan Sproles. The 6’0” junior had 11 carries for 159 yards rushing and two touchdowns. Sproles also had two interceptions on defense.
“Devan is a good football player,” said Kelly coach B.I. Salyers. “He only goes though when the offensive line does. Defensively, Devan knows his way around the football.”
“They had a good running back with Sproles,” said Grundy coach Greg Rowe. “They also had a very good quarterback. We played as hard as we could. We just didn’t have the speed to compete.”
Kelly would score three times in the first quarter. Quarterback Matt Dotson connected on a 13-pass to Blake Shouse to give J.J. Kelly the opening score of the contest. Sproles and fellow running back Chris Strouth scoring on runs of 58 yards and 1 yard.
Sproles would reach the end zone again early in the second on a 32-yard run. The final score of the second was a huge run of 71 yards by Jeremy Gilliam.
Defensively, the Indians held Grundy (2-2, 0-0) to 26 yards rushing in the first half and forced two Golden Wave turnovers. The Indians would take the lead into halftime, 36-0.
Determined to change the game’s outcome, Grundy came out in the second half with a new energy. The Golden Wave opened up the second half with a 50-yard run by senior running back Josh McCowan.
Unfortunately for the Golden Wave, their drive stalled and Kelly recovered a fumble at their own 1.
The two teams battled back in forth and exchanged possession several times in the final stanza. Kelly would score with 4:22 remaining in the game on a Jordan Bates 4-yard run.
Grundy got on the board with only 10 seconds remaining, as quarterback Josh Kelly connected with wide receiver Cody Justus for a 3-yard touchdown pass. Justus lead the Golden Wave with 6 receptions, 41 yards, and a touchdown.
Despite the tough loss, coach Rowe believes that his teams “no give up” attitude says a lot about his team.
“Our kids will play as hard as they can,” Rowe said. “We aren’t happy with the score, but we are pleased with our kids play here tonight.”
Despite winning against the Golden Wave, coach Salyers saw a new and better Grundy team out there on the field.
“We first saw them scrimmage this season and they have improved tremendously since then,” Salyers said. “Our kids just did a good job playing against them tonight.”
Coach Rowe believes that a lack of experience and playing a veteran team may have hurt Grundy.
“Our team is young and we just got out moved,” Rowe said. “We were outsized compared to them. We played a much better team. This was a learning experience and it is going to take time for our team to get better.”
Regardless of the success the Indians have had thus far, coach Salyers has seen progress from his team every week this season
“Every game is a test to get better,” Salyers said. “Each game, we are improving and getting better every week. We played 48 minutes of hard football tonight.”
Grundy will return home next week for their homecoming game against Marion, while the Indians will be on the road against Rye Cove.
Sports Writer
Wise – The J.J. Kelly Indians celebrated homecoming in style, as they started off strong and finished strong against Grundy, winning 44-6 at Carroll Dale Stadium.
The Indians (4-1, 1-1) were led on both sides of the ball by Devan Sproles. The 6’0” junior had 11 carries for 159 yards rushing and two touchdowns. Sproles also had two interceptions on defense.
“Devan is a good football player,” said Kelly coach B.I. Salyers. “He only goes though when the offensive line does. Defensively, Devan knows his way around the football.”
“They had a good running back with Sproles,” said Grundy coach Greg Rowe. “They also had a very good quarterback. We played as hard as we could. We just didn’t have the speed to compete.”
Kelly would score three times in the first quarter. Quarterback Matt Dotson connected on a 13-pass to Blake Shouse to give J.J. Kelly the opening score of the contest. Sproles and fellow running back Chris Strouth scoring on runs of 58 yards and 1 yard.
Sproles would reach the end zone again early in the second on a 32-yard run. The final score of the second was a huge run of 71 yards by Jeremy Gilliam.
Defensively, the Indians held Grundy (2-2, 0-0) to 26 yards rushing in the first half and forced two Golden Wave turnovers. The Indians would take the lead into halftime, 36-0.
Determined to change the game’s outcome, Grundy came out in the second half with a new energy. The Golden Wave opened up the second half with a 50-yard run by senior running back Josh McCowan.
Unfortunately for the Golden Wave, their drive stalled and Kelly recovered a fumble at their own 1.
The two teams battled back in forth and exchanged possession several times in the final stanza. Kelly would score with 4:22 remaining in the game on a Jordan Bates 4-yard run.
Grundy got on the board with only 10 seconds remaining, as quarterback Josh Kelly connected with wide receiver Cody Justus for a 3-yard touchdown pass. Justus lead the Golden Wave with 6 receptions, 41 yards, and a touchdown.
Despite the tough loss, coach Rowe believes that his teams “no give up” attitude says a lot about his team.
“Our kids will play as hard as they can,” Rowe said. “We aren’t happy with the score, but we are pleased with our kids play here tonight.”
Despite winning against the Golden Wave, coach Salyers saw a new and better Grundy team out there on the field.
“We first saw them scrimmage this season and they have improved tremendously since then,” Salyers said. “Our kids just did a good job playing against them tonight.”
Coach Rowe believes that a lack of experience and playing a veteran team may have hurt Grundy.
“Our team is young and we just got out moved,” Rowe said. “We were outsized compared to them. We played a much better team. This was a learning experience and it is going to take time for our team to get better.”
Regardless of the success the Indians have had thus far, coach Salyers has seen progress from his team every week this season
“Every game is a test to get better,” Salyers said. “Each game, we are improving and getting better every week. We played 48 minutes of hard football tonight.”
Grundy will return home next week for their homecoming game against Marion, while the Indians will be on the road against Rye Cove.
Leedy has big game as Appalachia beats Pound
Cody Dalton
Sports Writer
Pound – Senior Brett Leedy had 299 rushing yards and five touchdowns, as the Appalachia Bulldogs spoiled Pound’s homecoming, 44-12.
“Brett is our ‘bread and butter’,” said Appalachia coach Roger Austin. “He is going to get the tough yards inside, but has the speed to break it outside. We are going to get on his back and can only going to go as far as he takes us.”
To open the game, Pound (0-5, 0-2) tried some trickery. After Appalachia won the toss and opted to receive, the Wildcats attempted an onside kick and it was recovered by Pound’s Erik Bolling.
The Wildcats wouldn’t convert on the drive and gave up the ball on a failed fourth down conversion. Both teams played tough throughout the first and exchanged possessions twice.
The first score wouldn’t occur until the clock showed 0:00 in the first quarter. Leedy broke a 19-yard run to the end zone, giving Appalachia (3-2, 1-1) the early 6-0 lead, after a missed two point conversion.
At the beginning of the second quarter, Pound had an answer. Senior Chris Hughes would break for a 51-yard run and a touchdown. Hughes led the Wildcats with 60 yards rushing in the game. After another missed two-point conversion attempt, the game would be tied, 6-6.
It would take Appalachia only 32 seconds to answer Pound’s score. Leedy would have two runs for 55 yards in the drive and scored on a 16-yard run.
Defense shined in the rest of the quarter. Pound held Appalachia to a failed fourth down attempt after an Erik Bolling sack. Appalachia would also get defensive, as Cody Carter intercepted Aaron Balthis on a half back pass on the 1-yard line. The score at halftime was 12-6.
Pound would get the ball to start the second half, but stalled and punted on fourth down. The Bulldogs would block the punt by Erik Bolling. Bolling recovered the ball and ran, but failed to get a first down.
The Bulldogs immediately went on the attack. Morgan Ireson ended their drive with a 53-yard run for a score. After the first successful two point conversion of the game, the score was 20-6.
It took Pound only a little over a minute to answer, as quarterback Devin Dotson found Aaron Balthis for a 76-yard pass. The conversion failed and Appalachia would lead, 20-12.
The rest of the game was all Appalachia. Leedy would have his way again on the next drive, rushing for a 27-yard touchdown. Appalachia led, 26-12, after another failed conversion.
Appalachia would kick the ball of to Pound, only to have the return muffed and stopped at the 1-yard line. This would be crucial, as two plays later the Wildcats were caught holding in the end zone, which led to a safety. The third quarter ended with a 28-12 lead by Appalachia.
The fourth quarter would be all Appalachia’s, as Leedy would score twice on short runs of one and three yards and Appalachia took the win, 44-12. Coach Austin was pleased with his team’s efforts in the second half of play.
“We came out in the second half and played a little bit better and smarter,” Austin said. “I credit our kids because they came together at halftime. I think Pound played real well though.”
Pound coach Chris Crabtree declined to comment on the game.
Despite how well that Brett Leedy played, Austin credits his offensive line for how well the Bulldogs played against Pound.
“I think our offensive line blocked really well and got our backs some yards,” Austin said. “Our offensive line worked all week on blocking and talking and all of the basic things.”
Regardless of the final score, Austin saw some problem places that need to be worked on in order to get better.
“We made some tremendous amount of mistakes and a lot of penalities,” Austin said. “We need to continue to work hard and improve. I am impressed with our kids in the second half. A win is a win and that is what we need to build on next week.”
Next week, Appalachia will play Oct. 8 at St. Paul, while Pound will be hosting J.I. Burton.
Sports Writer
Pound – Senior Brett Leedy had 299 rushing yards and five touchdowns, as the Appalachia Bulldogs spoiled Pound’s homecoming, 44-12.
“Brett is our ‘bread and butter’,” said Appalachia coach Roger Austin. “He is going to get the tough yards inside, but has the speed to break it outside. We are going to get on his back and can only going to go as far as he takes us.”
To open the game, Pound (0-5, 0-2) tried some trickery. After Appalachia won the toss and opted to receive, the Wildcats attempted an onside kick and it was recovered by Pound’s Erik Bolling.
The Wildcats wouldn’t convert on the drive and gave up the ball on a failed fourth down conversion. Both teams played tough throughout the first and exchanged possessions twice.
The first score wouldn’t occur until the clock showed 0:00 in the first quarter. Leedy broke a 19-yard run to the end zone, giving Appalachia (3-2, 1-1) the early 6-0 lead, after a missed two point conversion.
At the beginning of the second quarter, Pound had an answer. Senior Chris Hughes would break for a 51-yard run and a touchdown. Hughes led the Wildcats with 60 yards rushing in the game. After another missed two-point conversion attempt, the game would be tied, 6-6.
It would take Appalachia only 32 seconds to answer Pound’s score. Leedy would have two runs for 55 yards in the drive and scored on a 16-yard run.
Defense shined in the rest of the quarter. Pound held Appalachia to a failed fourth down attempt after an Erik Bolling sack. Appalachia would also get defensive, as Cody Carter intercepted Aaron Balthis on a half back pass on the 1-yard line. The score at halftime was 12-6.
Pound would get the ball to start the second half, but stalled and punted on fourth down. The Bulldogs would block the punt by Erik Bolling. Bolling recovered the ball and ran, but failed to get a first down.
The Bulldogs immediately went on the attack. Morgan Ireson ended their drive with a 53-yard run for a score. After the first successful two point conversion of the game, the score was 20-6.
It took Pound only a little over a minute to answer, as quarterback Devin Dotson found Aaron Balthis for a 76-yard pass. The conversion failed and Appalachia would lead, 20-12.
The rest of the game was all Appalachia. Leedy would have his way again on the next drive, rushing for a 27-yard touchdown. Appalachia led, 26-12, after another failed conversion.
Appalachia would kick the ball of to Pound, only to have the return muffed and stopped at the 1-yard line. This would be crucial, as two plays later the Wildcats were caught holding in the end zone, which led to a safety. The third quarter ended with a 28-12 lead by Appalachia.
The fourth quarter would be all Appalachia’s, as Leedy would score twice on short runs of one and three yards and Appalachia took the win, 44-12. Coach Austin was pleased with his team’s efforts in the second half of play.
“We came out in the second half and played a little bit better and smarter,” Austin said. “I credit our kids because they came together at halftime. I think Pound played real well though.”
Pound coach Chris Crabtree declined to comment on the game.
Despite how well that Brett Leedy played, Austin credits his offensive line for how well the Bulldogs played against Pound.
“I think our offensive line blocked really well and got our backs some yards,” Austin said. “Our offensive line worked all week on blocking and talking and all of the basic things.”
Regardless of the final score, Austin saw some problem places that need to be worked on in order to get better.
“We made some tremendous amount of mistakes and a lot of penalities,” Austin said. “We need to continue to work hard and improve. I am impressed with our kids in the second half. A win is a win and that is what we need to build on next week.”
Next week, Appalachia will play Oct. 8 at St. Paul, while Pound will be hosting J.I. Burton.
Lady Bulldogs use big runs after timeouts to beat Cumberland’s
Cody Dalton
Sports Writer
APPALACHIA – Bulldogs coach Angela Honeycutt used timeouts in key moments in their game against Cumberland on Wednesday. Those timeouts helped the Lady Bulldogs make runs and overcome a big deficit late. The Bulldogs avenged an earlier loss in the season to the Lady Skins, 47-38.
Early on in the game, Appalachia (10-6) would gain the lead thanks to Lauren Howard. The senior would score a lay up and a free throw, while assisting Brittany Craft for a lay up of her own.
The Lady Skins (10-8) would respond. Guards Stephanie Whitt and Kendra Russell powered Cumberland’s offense. The two would score all nine of the Lady Skins points. It was 9-7 in favor of Cumberland after one quarter.
The two teams continued their pace early on in the second quarter. Each team matched the other shot for shot until the score was 13-12. Then, Whitt and post player Samantha Sexton would score six points to end the half with a 19-12 Cumberland lead.
Coming out of the halftime break, the Lady Bulldogs knew they needed to respond. After an early Bulldogs timeout and the score 21-14, Appalachia responded in just over a minute. Howard would score twice, while also getting fouled on one basket. Craft also added a lay up to help tie the score at 21-21.
“You’ve got to work harder when you are tired,” Howard said. “Coach told us that we needed to there at the end. You know you have heart when you push yourself at the end of the game.”
The quarter would end with both teams answering one another, but Cumberland’s held a one point advantage, 27-26.
Appalachia began the final stanza the same way it began the previous one. Coach Angela Honeycutt would take a timeout to rest her players and make a game plan.
“Coach told us to keep our heads in the game,” Howard said. “We have a lot of problems keeping our heads in the game and creating a lot of mental mistakes when we are tired.”
“I try to use my timeouts just to rest up my team,” Honeycutt said. “We try to push the ball a lot. So usually, we take time outs to rest ourselves. I try to also get a good set play coming out for our key people. We did that tonight. We were smart enough to get the ball to Lauren [Howard] and Brittany Craft was strong too”
The move proved to be a smart one, as the Bulldogs would go on huge run against their opponents. With the game tied at 32-32 midway through the fourth, the Bulldogs run began.
Howard, who had just returned from her fourth foul, would score at will against the Lady Skins. The senior would score seven of the Bulldogs final 14 points. She ended the game with 19 points and 11 rebounds.
The Bulldogs would outscore the Lady Skins 14-6 over the final four minutes in the game, giving Appalachia their tenth win of the season.
Coach Honeycutt credits her team with playing a much better game overall than they have been.
“I thought we played good team ball,” Honeycutt said. “I thought we played smarter. I think we finally got out of our rut and looked halfway decent at times. Hopefully, we can carry that on to Friday night.”
John Bond, coach of Cumberland, gives credit to Appalachia’s performance and was disappointed in his team’s lack of aggression.
“Appalachia came to play tonight and played with a lot of intensity,” Bond said. “They were aggressive and executed really well there. Our kids didn’t respond or stand up there in the second half. That was the difference in the ball game. Basketball is a physical and aggressive game. That is the way you have got to play it.”
Honeycutt was also pleased with the reemergence of Howard, who is the team’s best post player.
“Lauren went missing on us the last two ball games,” Honeycutt said. “I told her yesterday in practice that she had to reappear in order for us to be successful. She showed up tonight to play ball. I hope she stays that way through the rest of the season. If she does, we’ll be alright.”
CUMBERLAND, KY (38)
Russell 7, Gilliam 4, Whitt 13, Maggard 4, Sexton 4, Tinsley 6
APPALACHIA (47)
Boyd 6, Craft 10, Estridge 4, Boggs 2, Howard 19, Mullins 6
Cumberland 9 10 8 11 47
Appalachia 7 5 14 21 38
Three-point goals – Appalachia 2 (Craft, Mullins), Cumberland 1 (Russell)
Sports Writer
APPALACHIA – Bulldogs coach Angela Honeycutt used timeouts in key moments in their game against Cumberland on Wednesday. Those timeouts helped the Lady Bulldogs make runs and overcome a big deficit late. The Bulldogs avenged an earlier loss in the season to the Lady Skins, 47-38.
Early on in the game, Appalachia (10-6) would gain the lead thanks to Lauren Howard. The senior would score a lay up and a free throw, while assisting Brittany Craft for a lay up of her own.
The Lady Skins (10-8) would respond. Guards Stephanie Whitt and Kendra Russell powered Cumberland’s offense. The two would score all nine of the Lady Skins points. It was 9-7 in favor of Cumberland after one quarter.
The two teams continued their pace early on in the second quarter. Each team matched the other shot for shot until the score was 13-12. Then, Whitt and post player Samantha Sexton would score six points to end the half with a 19-12 Cumberland lead.
Coming out of the halftime break, the Lady Bulldogs knew they needed to respond. After an early Bulldogs timeout and the score 21-14, Appalachia responded in just over a minute. Howard would score twice, while also getting fouled on one basket. Craft also added a lay up to help tie the score at 21-21.
“You’ve got to work harder when you are tired,” Howard said. “Coach told us that we needed to there at the end. You know you have heart when you push yourself at the end of the game.”
The quarter would end with both teams answering one another, but Cumberland’s held a one point advantage, 27-26.
Appalachia began the final stanza the same way it began the previous one. Coach Angela Honeycutt would take a timeout to rest her players and make a game plan.
“Coach told us to keep our heads in the game,” Howard said. “We have a lot of problems keeping our heads in the game and creating a lot of mental mistakes when we are tired.”
“I try to use my timeouts just to rest up my team,” Honeycutt said. “We try to push the ball a lot. So usually, we take time outs to rest ourselves. I try to also get a good set play coming out for our key people. We did that tonight. We were smart enough to get the ball to Lauren [Howard] and Brittany Craft was strong too”
The move proved to be a smart one, as the Bulldogs would go on huge run against their opponents. With the game tied at 32-32 midway through the fourth, the Bulldogs run began.
Howard, who had just returned from her fourth foul, would score at will against the Lady Skins. The senior would score seven of the Bulldogs final 14 points. She ended the game with 19 points and 11 rebounds.
The Bulldogs would outscore the Lady Skins 14-6 over the final four minutes in the game, giving Appalachia their tenth win of the season.
Coach Honeycutt credits her team with playing a much better game overall than they have been.
“I thought we played good team ball,” Honeycutt said. “I thought we played smarter. I think we finally got out of our rut and looked halfway decent at times. Hopefully, we can carry that on to Friday night.”
John Bond, coach of Cumberland, gives credit to Appalachia’s performance and was disappointed in his team’s lack of aggression.
“Appalachia came to play tonight and played with a lot of intensity,” Bond said. “They were aggressive and executed really well there. Our kids didn’t respond or stand up there in the second half. That was the difference in the ball game. Basketball is a physical and aggressive game. That is the way you have got to play it.”
Honeycutt was also pleased with the reemergence of Howard, who is the team’s best post player.
“Lauren went missing on us the last two ball games,” Honeycutt said. “I told her yesterday in practice that she had to reappear in order for us to be successful. She showed up tonight to play ball. I hope she stays that way through the rest of the season. If she does, we’ll be alright.”
CUMBERLAND, KY (38)
Russell 7, Gilliam 4, Whitt 13, Maggard 4, Sexton 4, Tinsley 6
APPALACHIA (47)
Boyd 6, Craft 10, Estridge 4, Boggs 2, Howard 19, Mullins 6
Cumberland 9 10 8 11 47
Appalachia 7 5 14 21 38
Three-point goals – Appalachia 2 (Craft, Mullins), Cumberland 1 (Russell)
Lady Cavs suffer first home blemish against Union
Cody Dalton
Sports Writer
Wise – Union College defeated the UVa-Wise volleyball team, 30-17, 31-29, 30-27, in Appalachian Athletic Conference play on Tuesday.
The loss was the first of the season at Greear Gymnasium. Union (23-7, 12-1) is also the only team to defeat the Cavaliers in the last eight games. They also won a home contest against Wise on Sept. 20, 3-0.
“I think there is a sting of losing the first time on our court this year,” said UVa-Wise coach Steve Dallman. “We have three games to win this week and we can’t let one loss totally get us down.”
Union started the first game on a 7-2 run and gained much need separation from the Cavs in the early going.
Towards the middle of the first, the Cavs would close the gap to 11-9, with two key kills for senior Natasha Viers. She finished the game with 14 kills and five digs.
Leading 15-11, Union would go on a 13-3 run. The Cavaliers fought hard, scoring three straight points, but failed to come back. Union would take the first set.
Different from the first game, the second game would remain close throughout. The largest lead would be only four, where Union led 14-10 towards the middle of the second game. The score remained tied or at most a one point advantage all the way to the end of the game.
After a Cavs timeout and the score tied at 28-28, Viers knocked home a thunderous kill that gave the Cavs a one point advantage. It looked as if the Cavs would tie the contest at a game a piece. Union had other ideas.
A missed hit would tie the game again and the Cavs would mistakenly hit the ball twice, giving Union a 30-29 lead. Finally, Union’s Stephanie Pateman spiked a kill that gave Union the second game. Pateman had 19 kills in the contest, which led all players.
Entering the third game, the Cavs would start off with a 2-0 lead. However for UVa-Wise, Union returned to their dominant ways. They would score six of the next seven points, giving them a 7-3 advantage. The Bulldogs carried this lead through the third game until the end.
With Union leading 22-14, the Lady Cavs knew their fate would be sealed if Union won the game. The Cavs would force Union into six mistakes, allowing them to claw back up to a 22-19 Union advantage.
The game would remain this close until the end of the third game. Unfortunately, the Cavs could only get within two, before finally losing the third game and the match.
UVa-Wise coach Steve Dallman felt let down in his team’s playing ability, despite preparing all week for the game.
“I am disappointed that we didn’t look like we were prepared to play,” Dallman said. “We worked hard all week and I am just disappointed in our hitting, our blocking and everything. To their credit though, they are a great team.
Union coach David Nicholson saw some improvements from his team’s performance in the last few weeks.
“We had been struggling the past few weeks with serving the ball,” Nicholson said. “We did better with that today. Obviously this is a huge win for us. UVa-Wise is a good team and they are third in the conference. We knew this was going to be tough.
Despite winning, Nicholson saw his team gain another step to improving their play on the court.
“When we are serving well, it is tough and it puts pressure on other teams,” Nicholson said. “Defense is something we need to improve though. We are getting better. It was our big Achilles heel last year. I thought we played the net well tonight. There were also a lot of soft blocks that we didn’t cover and we didn’t get up.”
The win keeps Union atop the AAC standings, while the Cavs feel into a tie with King College for third place.
Sports Writer
Wise – Union College defeated the UVa-Wise volleyball team, 30-17, 31-29, 30-27, in Appalachian Athletic Conference play on Tuesday.
The loss was the first of the season at Greear Gymnasium. Union (23-7, 12-1) is also the only team to defeat the Cavaliers in the last eight games. They also won a home contest against Wise on Sept. 20, 3-0.
“I think there is a sting of losing the first time on our court this year,” said UVa-Wise coach Steve Dallman. “We have three games to win this week and we can’t let one loss totally get us down.”
Union started the first game on a 7-2 run and gained much need separation from the Cavs in the early going.
Towards the middle of the first, the Cavs would close the gap to 11-9, with two key kills for senior Natasha Viers. She finished the game with 14 kills and five digs.
Leading 15-11, Union would go on a 13-3 run. The Cavaliers fought hard, scoring three straight points, but failed to come back. Union would take the first set.
Different from the first game, the second game would remain close throughout. The largest lead would be only four, where Union led 14-10 towards the middle of the second game. The score remained tied or at most a one point advantage all the way to the end of the game.
After a Cavs timeout and the score tied at 28-28, Viers knocked home a thunderous kill that gave the Cavs a one point advantage. It looked as if the Cavs would tie the contest at a game a piece. Union had other ideas.
A missed hit would tie the game again and the Cavs would mistakenly hit the ball twice, giving Union a 30-29 lead. Finally, Union’s Stephanie Pateman spiked a kill that gave Union the second game. Pateman had 19 kills in the contest, which led all players.
Entering the third game, the Cavs would start off with a 2-0 lead. However for UVa-Wise, Union returned to their dominant ways. They would score six of the next seven points, giving them a 7-3 advantage. The Bulldogs carried this lead through the third game until the end.
With Union leading 22-14, the Lady Cavs knew their fate would be sealed if Union won the game. The Cavs would force Union into six mistakes, allowing them to claw back up to a 22-19 Union advantage.
The game would remain this close until the end of the third game. Unfortunately, the Cavs could only get within two, before finally losing the third game and the match.
UVa-Wise coach Steve Dallman felt let down in his team’s playing ability, despite preparing all week for the game.
“I am disappointed that we didn’t look like we were prepared to play,” Dallman said. “We worked hard all week and I am just disappointed in our hitting, our blocking and everything. To their credit though, they are a great team.
Union coach David Nicholson saw some improvements from his team’s performance in the last few weeks.
“We had been struggling the past few weeks with serving the ball,” Nicholson said. “We did better with that today. Obviously this is a huge win for us. UVa-Wise is a good team and they are third in the conference. We knew this was going to be tough.
Despite winning, Nicholson saw his team gain another step to improving their play on the court.
“When we are serving well, it is tough and it puts pressure on other teams,” Nicholson said. “Defense is something we need to improve though. We are getting better. It was our big Achilles heel last year. I thought we played the net well tonight. There were also a lot of soft blocks that we didn’t cover and we didn’t get up.”
The win keeps Union atop the AAC standings, while the Cavs feel into a tie with King College for third place.
Vikings start off slow, but rally at end to beat Raiders
Cody Dalton
Sports Writer
Norton – The Powell Valley Vikings started off sluggish in their first few games Thursday, but rallied to win the final two games against J.I. Burton and earn a Lonesome Pine District win 25-27, 27-25, 17-25, 25-16, 15-11 at Wilson Gymnasium.
The Vikings (6-3, 3-1) were led by Tasha Trent, who had 13 kills, 4 blocks, and 4 aces. Brette Harding also had 11 kills for Powell Valley.
“We gritted our teeth and hung in there and we were able to come out on top,” said Vikings coach Kim Moore. “Our weaknesses were passing and our ability to play as a team tonight. We were individuals out there.”
In the first game, Burton (4-7, 3-1) quickly jumped out to an 8-0 lead before Powell Valley’s first score. Things tightened up in the middle of the first game though, as Powell Valley rallied to score 5 straight points, which gave the Vikings a 14-13 lead.
Burton would gain some much needed separation from Powell Valley, but the two teams tied again at 24-24. It looked as if the Vikings would win the set after taking a 25-24 lead, but Burton rallied.
The Raiders quickly tied and then took a one point advantage over Powell Valley before April Hamilton had a crucial kill to give the Raiders the first set. Hamilton had 11 kills and 11 service points for the Raiders, while Hannah Stewart had 17 service points and 23 assists.
The Raiders continued their trend of great starts with a 9-1 lead in the early stages of game two. Powell Valley once again rallied to bring the game to 13-16. The Vikings then won 4 of the next 5 points to tie Burton at 17-17. Powell Valley took their first lead of the second game with Brette Harding kill to make it 18-17.
Towards the end of the second game, Powell Valley maintained a 25-22 lead before three straight Viking mistakes led to a 25-25 tie. However, Powell Valley redeemed themselves, as they won the next two points and the second game.
“I thought the first three games we did an excellent job of getting ahead and putting pressure on them,” said Burton coach Jon Bright. “It was a heartbreaker losing that second game. If it hadn’t been for the second game, we might have come out of here with a win in three games and without a loss.”
Different from the first two games, the third game was hotly contested throughout the first couple of points. The two teams were tied at 2-2 before a Burton run gave them an 8-2 lead. The Vikings had the same idea, going on an 8-2 run to tie at 10 all.
Towards the end of the third, Burton won 8 of the next 9 points and stretched their lead to 18-11. The Raiders ended up taking the game, 25-17, after a Chelsea Forney block at the net.
Game four featured another hot start, but this time is was by Powell Valley. The Vikings started out the game with 7-1 and at one point had a 13-2 lead in the game. The closest the Raiders got was at 22-16, but the Vikings won the final three points to give them the set, 25-16.
“Coming out of the huddle after the fourth game, I told my team that we’ve worked hard all summer and this whole year,” Moore said. “It is just too early to give up a win here.”
The fifth and final game was a battle between the two teams as they were tied throughout. After a 10-10 tie, the Vikings went on a four point run that ended only because of a missed serve. The Vikings rebounded and stopped the Raiders one final time to preserve their victory.
“There is no doubt that we want to win,” Moore said. “Right now, it is just figuring out how to win. We have the talent on this team, but we just need to figure out who needs to go where and when and who is on and who is off.”
“Game four, I thought we kind of lost the momentum,” Bright said. “We came out real flat and I don’t know why. We got behind early. We fought back and made it somewhat competitive, but lost the game. Then I thought we might have had it back in the fifth game, but then the wheels came off. We quit attacking. That was the difference in the game.”
Despite such a tough loss, Bright feels his team will bounce back and play well in the coming games.
“It is tough because that is our first district loss,” Bright said. “We’ll just work on the things that need to and hopefully we’ll get better.”
Coach Moore also feels that her team still has improvements to make as well, in order to get better.
“We have to start out better,” Moore said. “We started out and dug ourselves a hole. We need to be consistent and do the right things out there. We need to be smarter. Burton is a great team and I feel like they out hustled us. Somebody was on our side tonight.”
Sports Writer
Norton – The Powell Valley Vikings started off sluggish in their first few games Thursday, but rallied to win the final two games against J.I. Burton and earn a Lonesome Pine District win 25-27, 27-25, 17-25, 25-16, 15-11 at Wilson Gymnasium.
The Vikings (6-3, 3-1) were led by Tasha Trent, who had 13 kills, 4 blocks, and 4 aces. Brette Harding also had 11 kills for Powell Valley.
“We gritted our teeth and hung in there and we were able to come out on top,” said Vikings coach Kim Moore. “Our weaknesses were passing and our ability to play as a team tonight. We were individuals out there.”
In the first game, Burton (4-7, 3-1) quickly jumped out to an 8-0 lead before Powell Valley’s first score. Things tightened up in the middle of the first game though, as Powell Valley rallied to score 5 straight points, which gave the Vikings a 14-13 lead.
Burton would gain some much needed separation from Powell Valley, but the two teams tied again at 24-24. It looked as if the Vikings would win the set after taking a 25-24 lead, but Burton rallied.
The Raiders quickly tied and then took a one point advantage over Powell Valley before April Hamilton had a crucial kill to give the Raiders the first set. Hamilton had 11 kills and 11 service points for the Raiders, while Hannah Stewart had 17 service points and 23 assists.
The Raiders continued their trend of great starts with a 9-1 lead in the early stages of game two. Powell Valley once again rallied to bring the game to 13-16. The Vikings then won 4 of the next 5 points to tie Burton at 17-17. Powell Valley took their first lead of the second game with Brette Harding kill to make it 18-17.
Towards the end of the second game, Powell Valley maintained a 25-22 lead before three straight Viking mistakes led to a 25-25 tie. However, Powell Valley redeemed themselves, as they won the next two points and the second game.
“I thought the first three games we did an excellent job of getting ahead and putting pressure on them,” said Burton coach Jon Bright. “It was a heartbreaker losing that second game. If it hadn’t been for the second game, we might have come out of here with a win in three games and without a loss.”
Different from the first two games, the third game was hotly contested throughout the first couple of points. The two teams were tied at 2-2 before a Burton run gave them an 8-2 lead. The Vikings had the same idea, going on an 8-2 run to tie at 10 all.
Towards the end of the third, Burton won 8 of the next 9 points and stretched their lead to 18-11. The Raiders ended up taking the game, 25-17, after a Chelsea Forney block at the net.
Game four featured another hot start, but this time is was by Powell Valley. The Vikings started out the game with 7-1 and at one point had a 13-2 lead in the game. The closest the Raiders got was at 22-16, but the Vikings won the final three points to give them the set, 25-16.
“Coming out of the huddle after the fourth game, I told my team that we’ve worked hard all summer and this whole year,” Moore said. “It is just too early to give up a win here.”
The fifth and final game was a battle between the two teams as they were tied throughout. After a 10-10 tie, the Vikings went on a four point run that ended only because of a missed serve. The Vikings rebounded and stopped the Raiders one final time to preserve their victory.
“There is no doubt that we want to win,” Moore said. “Right now, it is just figuring out how to win. We have the talent on this team, but we just need to figure out who needs to go where and when and who is on and who is off.”
“Game four, I thought we kind of lost the momentum,” Bright said. “We came out real flat and I don’t know why. We got behind early. We fought back and made it somewhat competitive, but lost the game. Then I thought we might have had it back in the fifth game, but then the wheels came off. We quit attacking. That was the difference in the game.”
Despite such a tough loss, Bright feels his team will bounce back and play well in the coming games.
“It is tough because that is our first district loss,” Bright said. “We’ll just work on the things that need to and hopefully we’ll get better.”
Coach Moore also feels that her team still has improvements to make as well, in order to get better.
“We have to start out better,” Moore said. “We started out and dug ourselves a hole. We need to be consistent and do the right things out there. We need to be smarter. Burton is a great team and I feel like they out hustled us. Somebody was on our side tonight.”
Lady Raiders roll over Pound in three games
Cody Dalton
Sports Writer
Norton – The J.I. Burton Raiders swept the Pound Wildcats, 25-16, 25-14, 25-16, Tuesday night in a Lonesome Pine District contest at Wilson Gymnasium.
The Raiders (6-10, 4-2) took an early 6-1 advantage to start the first game, before Pound (5-11, 0-5) closed the gap to 6-3.
Burton would go on yet another run of 6 straight to gain the lead, 12-3. The closest that Pound got would be was 3 and the Raiders took the first game.
The two teams would start the beginning of the second game deadlocked. Burton gained the early 8-3 advantage after kills by Ruth Oviatt and Brittni Wilson. Oviatt led the Raiders with 10 kills, while Wilson had 11 assists.
After four Burton mistakes midway through the second game, the Wildcats climbed to within two points at 12-10.
The Raiders had in answer, in the form of an 11-0 run, to give them a 23-10 lead. Burton eventually took the game, 25-14, to give them a 2-0 lead in the match.
“The first two games it was hard to tell who was better,” said Burton coach Jon Bright. “Both teams played really flat. Luckily, we made less mistakes than Pound did in the first two games.”
Though they were down two games, the Wildcats came into the third determined to get on the board. Pound would start the third game on a 6-1 run.
With the score 16-8, Burton found a spark in the form of Oviatt and senior Jessi Adams. The two would combine for four kills, as the Raiders ended the third game on an amazing 17-0 run. Burton took the third game and the match.
Burton coach Jon Bright evaluated his team’s performance after the game.
“Early on, we didn’t play really bad, but we were just playing flat,” Bright said. “We built a big lead, but I felt that we let up. We had an opportunity to make a statement and just played flat. A win is a win and will take.”
Pound coach Kristen Phillips also had an assessment of her team’s play.
“This is the worst we have played all year. Thursday against Powell Valley was the best we had played. I don’t know how we can come in here and play like this after playing so well against Powell Valley. I am so disappointed in our play.”
The 17-0 run was impressive to not only the fans of Burton, but Bright was also impressed with run his team made.
“This is the second longest run since I’ve been coaching,” Bright said. “It really was nice. We were down and it came at a good point in time. What can you say? We will take it whatever we can get.”
“We had the lead and they wanted it,” Phillips said. “We had every opportunity. Even in the first and second game, we beat ourselves”
Bright believed that his team’s ability to get points in large amounts was the difference maker in the win.
“We went on some pretty big runs,” Bright said. “I think that was the difference. Third game, we were super flat and got behind. Then we got on a run and were playing really well. We were happy we won it in three.”
Sports Writer
Norton – The J.I. Burton Raiders swept the Pound Wildcats, 25-16, 25-14, 25-16, Tuesday night in a Lonesome Pine District contest at Wilson Gymnasium.
The Raiders (6-10, 4-2) took an early 6-1 advantage to start the first game, before Pound (5-11, 0-5) closed the gap to 6-3.
Burton would go on yet another run of 6 straight to gain the lead, 12-3. The closest that Pound got would be was 3 and the Raiders took the first game.
The two teams would start the beginning of the second game deadlocked. Burton gained the early 8-3 advantage after kills by Ruth Oviatt and Brittni Wilson. Oviatt led the Raiders with 10 kills, while Wilson had 11 assists.
After four Burton mistakes midway through the second game, the Wildcats climbed to within two points at 12-10.
The Raiders had in answer, in the form of an 11-0 run, to give them a 23-10 lead. Burton eventually took the game, 25-14, to give them a 2-0 lead in the match.
“The first two games it was hard to tell who was better,” said Burton coach Jon Bright. “Both teams played really flat. Luckily, we made less mistakes than Pound did in the first two games.”
Though they were down two games, the Wildcats came into the third determined to get on the board. Pound would start the third game on a 6-1 run.
With the score 16-8, Burton found a spark in the form of Oviatt and senior Jessi Adams. The two would combine for four kills, as the Raiders ended the third game on an amazing 17-0 run. Burton took the third game and the match.
Burton coach Jon Bright evaluated his team’s performance after the game.
“Early on, we didn’t play really bad, but we were just playing flat,” Bright said. “We built a big lead, but I felt that we let up. We had an opportunity to make a statement and just played flat. A win is a win and will take.”
Pound coach Kristen Phillips also had an assessment of her team’s play.
“This is the worst we have played all year. Thursday against Powell Valley was the best we had played. I don’t know how we can come in here and play like this after playing so well against Powell Valley. I am so disappointed in our play.”
The 17-0 run was impressive to not only the fans of Burton, but Bright was also impressed with run his team made.
“This is the second longest run since I’ve been coaching,” Bright said. “It really was nice. We were down and it came at a good point in time. What can you say? We will take it whatever we can get.”
“We had the lead and they wanted it,” Phillips said. “We had every opportunity. Even in the first and second game, we beat ourselves”
Bright believed that his team’s ability to get points in large amounts was the difference maker in the win.
“We went on some pretty big runs,” Bright said. “I think that was the difference. Third game, we were super flat and got behind. Then we got on a run and were playing really well. We were happy we won it in three.”
Lady Devils cruise past Burton in three straight games
Cody Dalton
Sports Writer
Norton – Gate City defeated the J.I. Burton Lady Raiders, 25-12, 25-21, 25-10, at Wilson Gymnasium in a non-district volleyball contest on Tuesday.
The Blue Devils (7-1, 2-0) started off extremely strong in the first game, jumping out to 9-2 lead before Burton could score again. Freshman Ashton Dougherty had two kills in the game’s first 6 points. She finished the game with 7 total kills.
“I thought Ashton Dougherty played really well,” Reed said. “She played really well for a freshman. Ashton was definitely our strongest point. She really stepped it up.”
Burton (5-8, 3-1) would rally in the first game to get within four points, 6-10. Gate City was just too strong though. They would score nine more points before finally taking the first game.
“I felt like we were a little intimidated in game one,” said Burton coach Jon Bright. “We knew that they were pretty good. We didn’t really know what to expect from them. It was a really quick game and it was something that we had not seen all season.”
Gate City got out to another great start in game two, but the Raiders would rally. After a 7-2 Blue Devil lead, Burton rallied to six of the next seven points. Freshman Cassie Godsey’s kill would tie the game at 8-8. The game remained close until the end.
With the score 18-17 in favor of Gate City, outside hitter Tessa Burton would deliver on two consecutive kills, giving the Blue Devils a three point cushion. A few kills and Burton mistakes later and the Devils claimed the second game.
“In the second game, I was really pleased with my team,” Bright said. “Gate City was able to get ahead of us, but we caught up to them. There at the end, they went on a run to finish the game off. We really hung with them though.”
The third game would be “do or die” for the Raiders and they came out playing tough. Burton forced Gate City into several mistakes, but the Blue Devils remained tough.
Gate City setter Chelsea Spivey would score two of the Blue Devil’s first three points in the third game. She ended the match with seven kills and 27 assists.
Burton would take their first lead of the game after an error by the Blue Devils. The lead would only be temporary, as two missed hits gave Gate City their own one point lead.
The Blue Devils went on to score eight more points in a row and hold the Raiders at bay. The lead was 14-5 in favor of Gate City.
Gate City ran the score up to 23-10 before a kill and block by outside hitter Jennifer Lewis gave the Blue Devils the victory.
“We had to come in here and execute offensively,” Reed said. “We weren’t able to do that. We did a lot of things on the net. There was a lot of inconsistency coming from the back row. Chelsea had to work a little harder tonight, so our team could make things happen. Luckily, we were able to get through the game out with a win.”
“This loss is tough,” Bright said. “It is hard to try and keep morale up every game, especially when you do lose. We are young though and we are going to be resilient. We have J.J. Kelly on Thursday and do the best we can against them.”
Despite the results, both team’s coaches see some room for improvement with their squads.
“Coming off of that back row is a big weakness for us,” Reed said. “We didn’t pass well or hit many of our serves. We just didn’t get the ball to our target tonight. Ultimately, that really hurts us offensively.”
“We need to improve on our passing,” Bright said. “Our setters run around too much as well. When we do get opportunities for a kill, we have to finish. We are hitting too many balls into the net. We have to make kills on a consistent basis.”
With such a tough road schedule to begin the season for Gate City, coach Reed realizes the importance of having your team play well away.
“Road trips are always important when you can get a win on someone else’s court,” said Gate City coach Amy Reed. “It really says a lot about your team.”
Both teams will play again Thursday, as Gate City hosts district foe John Battle, while J.I. Burton travels to J.J. Kelly.
Sports Writer
Norton – Gate City defeated the J.I. Burton Lady Raiders, 25-12, 25-21, 25-10, at Wilson Gymnasium in a non-district volleyball contest on Tuesday.
The Blue Devils (7-1, 2-0) started off extremely strong in the first game, jumping out to 9-2 lead before Burton could score again. Freshman Ashton Dougherty had two kills in the game’s first 6 points. She finished the game with 7 total kills.
“I thought Ashton Dougherty played really well,” Reed said. “She played really well for a freshman. Ashton was definitely our strongest point. She really stepped it up.”
Burton (5-8, 3-1) would rally in the first game to get within four points, 6-10. Gate City was just too strong though. They would score nine more points before finally taking the first game.
“I felt like we were a little intimidated in game one,” said Burton coach Jon Bright. “We knew that they were pretty good. We didn’t really know what to expect from them. It was a really quick game and it was something that we had not seen all season.”
Gate City got out to another great start in game two, but the Raiders would rally. After a 7-2 Blue Devil lead, Burton rallied to six of the next seven points. Freshman Cassie Godsey’s kill would tie the game at 8-8. The game remained close until the end.
With the score 18-17 in favor of Gate City, outside hitter Tessa Burton would deliver on two consecutive kills, giving the Blue Devils a three point cushion. A few kills and Burton mistakes later and the Devils claimed the second game.
“In the second game, I was really pleased with my team,” Bright said. “Gate City was able to get ahead of us, but we caught up to them. There at the end, they went on a run to finish the game off. We really hung with them though.”
The third game would be “do or die” for the Raiders and they came out playing tough. Burton forced Gate City into several mistakes, but the Blue Devils remained tough.
Gate City setter Chelsea Spivey would score two of the Blue Devil’s first three points in the third game. She ended the match with seven kills and 27 assists.
Burton would take their first lead of the game after an error by the Blue Devils. The lead would only be temporary, as two missed hits gave Gate City their own one point lead.
The Blue Devils went on to score eight more points in a row and hold the Raiders at bay. The lead was 14-5 in favor of Gate City.
Gate City ran the score up to 23-10 before a kill and block by outside hitter Jennifer Lewis gave the Blue Devils the victory.
“We had to come in here and execute offensively,” Reed said. “We weren’t able to do that. We did a lot of things on the net. There was a lot of inconsistency coming from the back row. Chelsea had to work a little harder tonight, so our team could make things happen. Luckily, we were able to get through the game out with a win.”
“This loss is tough,” Bright said. “It is hard to try and keep morale up every game, especially when you do lose. We are young though and we are going to be resilient. We have J.J. Kelly on Thursday and do the best we can against them.”
Despite the results, both team’s coaches see some room for improvement with their squads.
“Coming off of that back row is a big weakness for us,” Reed said. “We didn’t pass well or hit many of our serves. We just didn’t get the ball to our target tonight. Ultimately, that really hurts us offensively.”
“We need to improve on our passing,” Bright said. “Our setters run around too much as well. When we do get opportunities for a kill, we have to finish. We are hitting too many balls into the net. We have to make kills on a consistent basis.”
With such a tough road schedule to begin the season for Gate City, coach Reed realizes the importance of having your team play well away.
“Road trips are always important when you can get a win on someone else’s court,” said Gate City coach Amy Reed. “It really says a lot about your team.”
Both teams will play again Thursday, as Gate City hosts district foe John Battle, while J.I. Burton travels to J.J. Kelly.
Appalachia wins nail-biter over Clintwood in five games
Cody Dalton
Sports Writer
Appalachia – The Appalachia Lady Bulldogs beat the Clintwood Green Wave, 25-23, 13-25, 25-22, 14-25, 16-14, in a thrilling Lone Pine District contest on Thursday.
“It was a very good win,” said Appalachia coach Crystal Mosier. “It was a nail-biter and anyone in here could tell you that. Even down to the last couple of points, you didn’t know who was going to win it. It’s definitely a big win and good for us.”
Appalachia (6-6, 2-3) would start the game on a 7-1 run, before the Green Wave would score again. The Bulldogs were led on the run by Lauren Howard, who had two of the Bulldogs first seven points. She led the Bulldogs with 12 kills, 12 assists, and 20 digs.
After being down 10-5 midway through the first game, Clintwood (8-6, 0-4) would rally by winning six of the next seven points scored and tie the game at 11-11. The game would remain tight all the way to the end.
Towards the end of the first, the score would be 23-22, in favor of the Bulldogs. Brittany Craft stepped in for the Bulldogs with two key kills and helped give Appalachia game 1. Craft has 8 kills, 6 assists, and 4 digs.
The Green Wave came out aggressive again to start the second game, leading 10-3 at one point after a Courtney Mullins kill. Mullins would lead the Green Wave with 10 kills.
After being down, Craft once again stepped it up for the Bulldogs. Her two blocks and one kill helped Appalachia climb within four, 11-7, but that was as far as they would get. Clintwood took the second game.
The third game saw Appalachia get off to a quick 4-0 start, only to have it erased by Clintwood. The two teams would stay close, with the largest deficit being five points.
Clintwood held a 21-16 lead towards the end of game three and it looked as if they would take the game. Appalachia had different ideas and rallied to win five straight points and tie the game at 21-21. The two would tie at 22-22, before the Bulldogs won the next.
Howard would send a powerful spike from the middle of the court to give Appalachia a 24-22 edge before finally taking the game.
Clintwood’s pursuit to stay in the match would start out well in the fourth, with a 5-0 lead to open up the game. With the score 12-6 in favor of the Green Wave, Clintwood would go on another furious run of ten straight and take a 22-6 advantage.
The Green Wave eventually took the game, 25-14. This dramatic contest would have to go to a fifth and deciding game.
Appalachia looked great early on, with a 6-2 lead, but in typical fashion, Clintwood closed the gap. The two teams remained tied throughout the final stanza, until 14-14. Clintwood hit the ball out of bounds and Craft served up an ace to give the Bulldogs the victory.
“I think it was a very tough game,” Mosier said. “Coming into the game, I knew both teams knew it was going to go one way or the other. Clintwood got up on us in the second game and played together well. They didn’t give up and played as a team very well. It ultimately came down to that last game.”
“I think both teams were about equal,” said Clintwood coach Vicki Blevins. “Both teams had about the same amount of errors, as well as good and bad plays.”
Mosier believes that a total team unity, despite an ailment, helped the Bulldogs pull out an extremely difficult victory.
“I think we came together as a team tonight,” Mosier said. “There were several times when we were down and came back up. We had one player who was sick, but they came together to fill that spot. That is a big thing for us is to work together and getting on top.”
“This is a hard loss,” Blevins said. “This is the second hardest loss we have had, other than Powell Valley, which we lost the same way as this one.”
Despite the loss, coach Blevins saw some great positives in her teams playing ability in the game against Appalachia.
“I think we were our able to talk to one another,” Blevins said. “Our serve was good and that helped us more than anything. Our hitters were down a little bit.”
Both teams will be on the road for their next games Tuesday, as Clintwood plays at J.J. Kelly, while Appalachia travels to face Powell Valley.
Sports Writer
Appalachia – The Appalachia Lady Bulldogs beat the Clintwood Green Wave, 25-23, 13-25, 25-22, 14-25, 16-14, in a thrilling Lone Pine District contest on Thursday.
“It was a very good win,” said Appalachia coach Crystal Mosier. “It was a nail-biter and anyone in here could tell you that. Even down to the last couple of points, you didn’t know who was going to win it. It’s definitely a big win and good for us.”
Appalachia (6-6, 2-3) would start the game on a 7-1 run, before the Green Wave would score again. The Bulldogs were led on the run by Lauren Howard, who had two of the Bulldogs first seven points. She led the Bulldogs with 12 kills, 12 assists, and 20 digs.
After being down 10-5 midway through the first game, Clintwood (8-6, 0-4) would rally by winning six of the next seven points scored and tie the game at 11-11. The game would remain tight all the way to the end.
Towards the end of the first, the score would be 23-22, in favor of the Bulldogs. Brittany Craft stepped in for the Bulldogs with two key kills and helped give Appalachia game 1. Craft has 8 kills, 6 assists, and 4 digs.
The Green Wave came out aggressive again to start the second game, leading 10-3 at one point after a Courtney Mullins kill. Mullins would lead the Green Wave with 10 kills.
After being down, Craft once again stepped it up for the Bulldogs. Her two blocks and one kill helped Appalachia climb within four, 11-7, but that was as far as they would get. Clintwood took the second game.
The third game saw Appalachia get off to a quick 4-0 start, only to have it erased by Clintwood. The two teams would stay close, with the largest deficit being five points.
Clintwood held a 21-16 lead towards the end of game three and it looked as if they would take the game. Appalachia had different ideas and rallied to win five straight points and tie the game at 21-21. The two would tie at 22-22, before the Bulldogs won the next.
Howard would send a powerful spike from the middle of the court to give Appalachia a 24-22 edge before finally taking the game.
Clintwood’s pursuit to stay in the match would start out well in the fourth, with a 5-0 lead to open up the game. With the score 12-6 in favor of the Green Wave, Clintwood would go on another furious run of ten straight and take a 22-6 advantage.
The Green Wave eventually took the game, 25-14. This dramatic contest would have to go to a fifth and deciding game.
Appalachia looked great early on, with a 6-2 lead, but in typical fashion, Clintwood closed the gap. The two teams remained tied throughout the final stanza, until 14-14. Clintwood hit the ball out of bounds and Craft served up an ace to give the Bulldogs the victory.
“I think it was a very tough game,” Mosier said. “Coming into the game, I knew both teams knew it was going to go one way or the other. Clintwood got up on us in the second game and played together well. They didn’t give up and played as a team very well. It ultimately came down to that last game.”
“I think both teams were about equal,” said Clintwood coach Vicki Blevins. “Both teams had about the same amount of errors, as well as good and bad plays.”
Mosier believes that a total team unity, despite an ailment, helped the Bulldogs pull out an extremely difficult victory.
“I think we came together as a team tonight,” Mosier said. “There were several times when we were down and came back up. We had one player who was sick, but they came together to fill that spot. That is a big thing for us is to work together and getting on top.”
“This is a hard loss,” Blevins said. “This is the second hardest loss we have had, other than Powell Valley, which we lost the same way as this one.”
Despite the loss, coach Blevins saw some great positives in her teams playing ability in the game against Appalachia.
“I think we were our able to talk to one another,” Blevins said. “Our serve was good and that helped us more than anything. Our hitters were down a little bit.”
Both teams will be on the road for their next games Tuesday, as Clintwood plays at J.J. Kelly, while Appalachia travels to face Powell Valley.
Blue Devils gets 105th straight, LPD Tournament title in win over J.J. Kelly
By Cody Dalton
TriCitiesSports.com
November 5, 2006
Norton, Va. – Gate City’s volleyball team ran their winning streak against Lonesome Pine District teams to 105 straight, as they beat the J.J. Kelly Indians in three straight games, 25-18, 25-19, 25-15, to win the LPD Tournament title.
The game was a fairly competitive contest, with both teams keeping pace of each other. Gate City would break out at the end and claim the first set, 25-18.
In the second set, Gate City remained ahead for the majority of the match. J.J. Kelly would make a run to close the gap to 22-19, but the Devils laid staid to the second set, 25-15.
The third set would remain the closest of the entire game. J.J. Kelly would take a 12-7 early on, but Gate City would once again rally and take a 14-13 lead. The rest was history as Gate City won the third set, 25-15, and clinched the Lonesome Pine District Tournament title.
“Our team continues to grow mentally,” said Gate City coach Amy Reed. “They keep taking on all challenges and producing.”
The Blue Devils, who are in their last year as a member of the Lonesome Pine District, got 18 kills from standout senior Kaitlyn Musick. Musick also added three blocks. Brittney Simpson added 10 kills, with Chelsea Spivey adding 11 assists.
J.J. Kelly got 10 kills and four blocks from Kalen Collins, as well as nine kills from Lauren Mullins. Samantha Brummette added 23 assists for the Indians.
“We just didn’t work as well as we should tonight,” said J.J. Kelly coach Allison Shortt. “Our defense also didn’t work that well. Our team just took too much for granted.”
Gate City and J.J. Kelly now will prepare for Monday’s Class A, Region D match-ups. Gate City will play Twins Springs, while J.J. Kelly will play Rye Cove.
“We need to refocus, recharge and come out ready to play on Monday,” said Shortt.
“Now are focus is going to be on the Monday game against Twin Springs. We want to get through that game and then continue on from there.”
TriCitiesSports.com
November 5, 2006
Norton, Va. – Gate City’s volleyball team ran their winning streak against Lonesome Pine District teams to 105 straight, as they beat the J.J. Kelly Indians in three straight games, 25-18, 25-19, 25-15, to win the LPD Tournament title.
The game was a fairly competitive contest, with both teams keeping pace of each other. Gate City would break out at the end and claim the first set, 25-18.
In the second set, Gate City remained ahead for the majority of the match. J.J. Kelly would make a run to close the gap to 22-19, but the Devils laid staid to the second set, 25-15.
The third set would remain the closest of the entire game. J.J. Kelly would take a 12-7 early on, but Gate City would once again rally and take a 14-13 lead. The rest was history as Gate City won the third set, 25-15, and clinched the Lonesome Pine District Tournament title.
“Our team continues to grow mentally,” said Gate City coach Amy Reed. “They keep taking on all challenges and producing.”
The Blue Devils, who are in their last year as a member of the Lonesome Pine District, got 18 kills from standout senior Kaitlyn Musick. Musick also added three blocks. Brittney Simpson added 10 kills, with Chelsea Spivey adding 11 assists.
J.J. Kelly got 10 kills and four blocks from Kalen Collins, as well as nine kills from Lauren Mullins. Samantha Brummette added 23 assists for the Indians.
“We just didn’t work as well as we should tonight,” said J.J. Kelly coach Allison Shortt. “Our defense also didn’t work that well. Our team just took too much for granted.”
Gate City and J.J. Kelly now will prepare for Monday’s Class A, Region D match-ups. Gate City will play Twins Springs, while J.J. Kelly will play Rye Cove.
“We need to refocus, recharge and come out ready to play on Monday,” said Shortt.
“Now are focus is going to be on the Monday game against Twin Springs. We want to get through that game and then continue on from there.”
Cavs prepare close out amazing season against Union
Cody Dalton
TriCitiesSports.com
November 10, 2006
Wise, Va. – After an amazing season, for which some football players will not forget, the UVA-Wise Cavalier football team will finish its season off this Saturday as they host Union at 1:30 pm at Carl Smith Staduim.
The Cavs (7-3, 2-2 in the Mid-South Conference) are looking to bounce back after a tough defeat against the University of the Cumberland’s, 40-34, in overtime last Saturday. The loss eliminated the Cavs from a chance at NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics) post-season play. A win on Saturday on their home turf would certainly be a moral booster to the team.
“It is imperative that we do not want a great season to end on two straight losses,” said Cavs football coach Bruce Wasem. “It is not going to be easy, but it is key that we want to beat Union to end the season.”
Senior and team captain Jon “Cub” Mullins stressed another key reason this game has importance.
“Since we lost last week, that knocked us out of playoff hopes,” said Mullins. “The game this weekend against Union is our playoff game. We have to win this one because it is the last chance the seniors will ever have to play football here at UVA-Wise.”
Union (2-7, 1-6 in the MSC) will be looking to play the role of spoiler against the Cavs. The Bulldogs lost a heartbreaker last week to West Virginia Tech, 43-37. In last seasons contest between the Bulldogs and Cavs, Union beat UVA-Wise, 47-28. The Cavs can’t afford to slip up this season or they will fall victim to the upset.
“I anticipate that they are going to play extremely hard,” said Wasem. “We have somewhat of a rivalry between our two teams and we have had some great games as well. It is going to be a challenge of their strengths versus our strengths.”
The Cavaliers have put on a spectacle this season, earning Mid-South Conference honors, as well as being ranked as high as #18 nationally from the NAIA. The team has also shattered their record from a season ago, of 4-7, 1-4 in the MSC. This tremendous run will finally come to a close this Saturday, with the Cavaliers final game.
“From a performance standpoint, I think we have done pretty well,” said Wasem. “To go from 4-7 to 8-3 right now is a major change, a change that nobody but us expected.”
“Going 7-3 so far has been amazing,” said Mullins. “Many people wrote us off and we could have easily given up after the Lambuth loss, but I am really proud of all my teammates for stepping up and going out and getting it done.”
Individually, the Cavs have had a record-breaking year on the offensive side of the ball. Statistically, the Cavs rank first in the NAIA overall in total offense and passing offense, as well as having one of the most balanced passing and rushing attacks in the entire nation. The Cavs have also broken 13 of the schools football records and have their sights set on 14 others that are within reach. In yardage, the Cavs have outgained their opponents in all ten of the contests played this season.
Sophomore quarterback Randy Hippeard and junior running back Ra’Shad Morgan have both broken school records for passing and rushing in a season and a single game respectively. Hippeard has completed 198 of his 329 passes thrown for 2,911 yards and 25 touchdowns. Morgan has had a similar year rushing the football, with 1,539 yards on 273 attempts and 23 touchdowns.
“Records are a good thing to have,” said Morgan. “In the same regard, I would rather be winning as a team, than having any personal record.”
Coach Wasem said he wants to remind everyone though that there are unsung heroes on this team, that don’t receive a lot of credit.
“I give credit to the guys that never get any stats or compliments, the offensive line,” said Wasem. “It is nice to see guys receive that kind of recognition and achieved those kinds of goals. Those things are important, but they are all signs of team success. Ultimately, we look at the team goals, more than an individual record.”
So there you have it. A record football season will come to a close on Saturday against Union. Hopefully for the Cavs, it will have a storybook ending. For those that cannot attend the game live, it will be aired live on 93.5 FM, as well as redzonemedia.com.
TriCitiesSports.com
November 10, 2006
Wise, Va. – After an amazing season, for which some football players will not forget, the UVA-Wise Cavalier football team will finish its season off this Saturday as they host Union at 1:30 pm at Carl Smith Staduim.
The Cavs (7-3, 2-2 in the Mid-South Conference) are looking to bounce back after a tough defeat against the University of the Cumberland’s, 40-34, in overtime last Saturday. The loss eliminated the Cavs from a chance at NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics) post-season play. A win on Saturday on their home turf would certainly be a moral booster to the team.
“It is imperative that we do not want a great season to end on two straight losses,” said Cavs football coach Bruce Wasem. “It is not going to be easy, but it is key that we want to beat Union to end the season.”
Senior and team captain Jon “Cub” Mullins stressed another key reason this game has importance.
“Since we lost last week, that knocked us out of playoff hopes,” said Mullins. “The game this weekend against Union is our playoff game. We have to win this one because it is the last chance the seniors will ever have to play football here at UVA-Wise.”
Union (2-7, 1-6 in the MSC) will be looking to play the role of spoiler against the Cavs. The Bulldogs lost a heartbreaker last week to West Virginia Tech, 43-37. In last seasons contest between the Bulldogs and Cavs, Union beat UVA-Wise, 47-28. The Cavs can’t afford to slip up this season or they will fall victim to the upset.
“I anticipate that they are going to play extremely hard,” said Wasem. “We have somewhat of a rivalry between our two teams and we have had some great games as well. It is going to be a challenge of their strengths versus our strengths.”
The Cavaliers have put on a spectacle this season, earning Mid-South Conference honors, as well as being ranked as high as #18 nationally from the NAIA. The team has also shattered their record from a season ago, of 4-7, 1-4 in the MSC. This tremendous run will finally come to a close this Saturday, with the Cavaliers final game.
“From a performance standpoint, I think we have done pretty well,” said Wasem. “To go from 4-7 to 8-3 right now is a major change, a change that nobody but us expected.”
“Going 7-3 so far has been amazing,” said Mullins. “Many people wrote us off and we could have easily given up after the Lambuth loss, but I am really proud of all my teammates for stepping up and going out and getting it done.”
Individually, the Cavs have had a record-breaking year on the offensive side of the ball. Statistically, the Cavs rank first in the NAIA overall in total offense and passing offense, as well as having one of the most balanced passing and rushing attacks in the entire nation. The Cavs have also broken 13 of the schools football records and have their sights set on 14 others that are within reach. In yardage, the Cavs have outgained their opponents in all ten of the contests played this season.
Sophomore quarterback Randy Hippeard and junior running back Ra’Shad Morgan have both broken school records for passing and rushing in a season and a single game respectively. Hippeard has completed 198 of his 329 passes thrown for 2,911 yards and 25 touchdowns. Morgan has had a similar year rushing the football, with 1,539 yards on 273 attempts and 23 touchdowns.
“Records are a good thing to have,” said Morgan. “In the same regard, I would rather be winning as a team, than having any personal record.”
Coach Wasem said he wants to remind everyone though that there are unsung heroes on this team, that don’t receive a lot of credit.
“I give credit to the guys that never get any stats or compliments, the offensive line,” said Wasem. “It is nice to see guys receive that kind of recognition and achieved those kinds of goals. Those things are important, but they are all signs of team success. Ultimately, we look at the team goals, more than an individual record.”
So there you have it. A record football season will come to a close on Saturday against Union. Hopefully for the Cavs, it will have a storybook ending. For those that cannot attend the game live, it will be aired live on 93.5 FM, as well as redzonemedia.com.
Morgan’s record day helps Cavaliers out duel Bulldogs, 59-42
By Cody Dalton
TriCitiesSports.com
September 23, 2006
Wise, VA – The University of Virginia’s College at Wise celebrated their annual homecoming with a huge win over Cumberland University, 59-42, at Carl Smith Stadium on Saturday.
“It is great to get a win, especially at homecoming,” said Cavs running back Ra’Shad Morgan. “It was great to have our alumni come back and see us do well.”
The game started out rough for the Cavaliers, who fell into an early 14-0 hole. The Cavaliers would rebound, however, and score two consecutive touchdowns. The game would be tied, 14-14.
“We came out a little too excited,” said Cavs coach Bruce Wasem. “We got everything back together and it worked for us.”
The second quarter would be the highest scoring of the game for UVA-Wise. After a Cumberland score, UVA-Wise would mount a huge rally, scoring on three huge plays.
“We knew we had to keep plugging away at them,” said Morgan. “It was nice to get the rhythm going offensively. That is all it took.”
Ra’Shad Morgan rushed for a long touchdown, Ray Damm kicked a field goal and Randy Hippeard connected with Aric Evans for a long touchdown pass. UVA-Wise would take a 31-21 lead into the locker room for halftime.
Both the Bulldogs and Cavaliers came out of the locker room, ready to deliver. Each team had an answer for the other team’s score. The second half would be a competitive and a close scoring affair. As a result, the Cavaliers picked up the win, 59-42.
Morgan, who rushed for 289 yards and four touchdowns, set a Cavaliers rushing record for yards in a game on Saturday.
“Everyone did an outstanding job blocking,” said Morgan. “Our line did a great job. Our receivers also did a great job. I owe them all the credit.”
UVA-Wise, who are now 4-0 for the first time since 1996, will play next Saturday on the road against #4 NAIA ranked Georgetown (KY), while Cumberland (TN) will host Lambuth University next Saturday in Mid-South Conference play.
1 2 3 4 FINAL
Cumberland (TN) 14 7 14 7 42
UVA-Wise 6 25 14 14 59
Cumberland (TN) – Eads, 2-yard run (Diaz kick)
Cumberland (TN) – Matt Eads 80-yard pass to Glen McKnight (Diaz kick)
UVA-Wise – Ra’Shad Morgan 51-yard run (kick failed)
UVA-Wise – Randy Hippeard 52-yard pass to Aric Evans (two point conversion)
Cumberland (TN) – Travis Carter 93-yard kickoff return (Diaz kick)
UVA-Wise – Ra’Shad Morgan 36-yard run (Damm kick)
UVA-Wise – Ray Damm 23-yard field goal
UVA-Wise – Randy Hippeard 57-yard pass to Aric Evans (Damm kick)
UVA-Wise – Randy Hippeard 1-yard run (Damm kick)
Cumberland (TN) – Brandon Howard 1-yard run (Diaz kick)
UVA-Wise – Ra’Shad Morgan 4-yard run (Damm kick)
Cumberland (TN) – Matt Eads 50-yard pass to Travis Carter (Diaz kick)
UVA-Wise – Ra’Shad Morgan 12-yard run (Damm kick)
UVA-Wise – Randy Hippeard 32-yard pass to Herb Watson (Damm kick)
Cumberland (TN) – Travis Carter 84-yard kickoff return (Diaz kick)
UVA-Wise Cumberland
First Downs 31 16
Rushing Att-Yards 45-337 37-183
Passes Comp-Att-Int 15-24-0 7-13-1
Passing Yards 354 189
Total Offense 691 372
Punting 2-27.5 4-39.2
Fumbles-Lost 0-0 3-2
Penalties 7-70 6-26
Individual Stats
RUSHING
Cumberland – Howard, 15-102, 1 TD; Carter, 5-43; Boga, 7-14; Eads, 8-14, 1 TD; Stallins, 2-10.
UVA-Wise – Morgan, 34-289, 4 TDs; Laws, 5-22; Lovett, 3-13; Robbins, 1-7; Terry, 1-5; Hippeard, 1-1, 1 TD.
PASSING
Cumberland – Eads, 7-13-1, 189, 2 TDs.
UVA-Wise – Hippeard, 15-24-0, 354, 3 TDs.
RECEIVING
Cumberland– McKnight, 2-80, 1 TD; Carter, 2-63, 1 TD; Brown, 1-20; Richardson, 1-19; Boga, 1-7.
UVA-Wise – Watson, 4-72, 1 TD; Evans, 3-119, 2 TDs; Barbour, 3-51; Ra’Shad Morgan, 2-19; Thompson, 1-41; Doe, 1-32; Payne, 1-20.
TriCitiesSports.com
September 23, 2006
Wise, VA – The University of Virginia’s College at Wise celebrated their annual homecoming with a huge win over Cumberland University, 59-42, at Carl Smith Stadium on Saturday.
“It is great to get a win, especially at homecoming,” said Cavs running back Ra’Shad Morgan. “It was great to have our alumni come back and see us do well.”
The game started out rough for the Cavaliers, who fell into an early 14-0 hole. The Cavaliers would rebound, however, and score two consecutive touchdowns. The game would be tied, 14-14.
“We came out a little too excited,” said Cavs coach Bruce Wasem. “We got everything back together and it worked for us.”
The second quarter would be the highest scoring of the game for UVA-Wise. After a Cumberland score, UVA-Wise would mount a huge rally, scoring on three huge plays.
“We knew we had to keep plugging away at them,” said Morgan. “It was nice to get the rhythm going offensively. That is all it took.”
Ra’Shad Morgan rushed for a long touchdown, Ray Damm kicked a field goal and Randy Hippeard connected with Aric Evans for a long touchdown pass. UVA-Wise would take a 31-21 lead into the locker room for halftime.
Both the Bulldogs and Cavaliers came out of the locker room, ready to deliver. Each team had an answer for the other team’s score. The second half would be a competitive and a close scoring affair. As a result, the Cavaliers picked up the win, 59-42.
Morgan, who rushed for 289 yards and four touchdowns, set a Cavaliers rushing record for yards in a game on Saturday.
“Everyone did an outstanding job blocking,” said Morgan. “Our line did a great job. Our receivers also did a great job. I owe them all the credit.”
UVA-Wise, who are now 4-0 for the first time since 1996, will play next Saturday on the road against #4 NAIA ranked Georgetown (KY), while Cumberland (TN) will host Lambuth University next Saturday in Mid-South Conference play.
1 2 3 4 FINAL
Cumberland (TN) 14 7 14 7 42
UVA-Wise 6 25 14 14 59
Cumberland (TN) – Eads, 2-yard run (Diaz kick)
Cumberland (TN) – Matt Eads 80-yard pass to Glen McKnight (Diaz kick)
UVA-Wise – Ra’Shad Morgan 51-yard run (kick failed)
UVA-Wise – Randy Hippeard 52-yard pass to Aric Evans (two point conversion)
Cumberland (TN) – Travis Carter 93-yard kickoff return (Diaz kick)
UVA-Wise – Ra’Shad Morgan 36-yard run (Damm kick)
UVA-Wise – Ray Damm 23-yard field goal
UVA-Wise – Randy Hippeard 57-yard pass to Aric Evans (Damm kick)
UVA-Wise – Randy Hippeard 1-yard run (Damm kick)
Cumberland (TN) – Brandon Howard 1-yard run (Diaz kick)
UVA-Wise – Ra’Shad Morgan 4-yard run (Damm kick)
Cumberland (TN) – Matt Eads 50-yard pass to Travis Carter (Diaz kick)
UVA-Wise – Ra’Shad Morgan 12-yard run (Damm kick)
UVA-Wise – Randy Hippeard 32-yard pass to Herb Watson (Damm kick)
Cumberland (TN) – Travis Carter 84-yard kickoff return (Diaz kick)
UVA-Wise Cumberland
First Downs 31 16
Rushing Att-Yards 45-337 37-183
Passes Comp-Att-Int 15-24-0 7-13-1
Passing Yards 354 189
Total Offense 691 372
Punting 2-27.5 4-39.2
Fumbles-Lost 0-0 3-2
Penalties 7-70 6-26
Individual Stats
RUSHING
Cumberland – Howard, 15-102, 1 TD; Carter, 5-43; Boga, 7-14; Eads, 8-14, 1 TD; Stallins, 2-10.
UVA-Wise – Morgan, 34-289, 4 TDs; Laws, 5-22; Lovett, 3-13; Robbins, 1-7; Terry, 1-5; Hippeard, 1-1, 1 TD.
PASSING
Cumberland – Eads, 7-13-1, 189, 2 TDs.
UVA-Wise – Hippeard, 15-24-0, 354, 3 TDs.
RECEIVING
Cumberland– McKnight, 2-80, 1 TD; Carter, 2-63, 1 TD; Brown, 1-20; Richardson, 1-19; Boga, 1-7.
UVA-Wise – Watson, 4-72, 1 TD; Evans, 3-119, 2 TDs; Barbour, 3-51; Ra’Shad Morgan, 2-19; Thompson, 1-41; Doe, 1-32; Payne, 1-20.
Eagles beat Cavaliers in thriller, 47-43
October 6, 2006
By Cody Dalton
TriCitiesSports.com
Wise, VA – After losing last week to Georgetown, the Cavaliers had their home return spoiled by Lambuth, who scored with 17 seconds remaining in the game to edge out the Cavs, 47-43.
“It’s hard to think a whole lot after that game,” said UVA-Wise coach Bruce Wasem. “It is a pretty disappointing finish.”
The Cavaliers started out the game with the momentum. Running back Ra’Shad Morgan ran the first play from scrimmage 80-yards to give the Cavaliers the initial 7-0 lead. After the first stanza, the Cavs led the Eagles 21-7. It looked as if UVA-Wise would win in dominating fashion, but that would soon change.
In the second quarter, the Eagles would respond. Lambuth took their first drive in the 2nd quarter and drove it 80 yards in 5:10 to cut the Cavs advantage to 21-14. Both teams would head into halftime with the score, 28-21, Cavaliers leading.
The third quarter would mirror the way the game had been. Lambuth started out with the ball and scored, but miss the extra point. The score would be 28-27. The Cavs would score on their next drive, followed by a Lambuth score to end the 3rd quarter. The score was 35-33 heading into the final stanza.
The fourth quarter set up an exciting finish for the home crowd. Lambuth would stop UVA-Wise on their opening drive in the quarter and then start a drive on their own. Lambuth would drive 90 yards in seven plays and take the lead, 40-35, with 2:46 remaining.
It looked as if the Cavaliers had the game won, when they converted a 4th and 4 on their final drive. After that, Cavs quarterback Randy Hippeard completed a 21-yard touchdown pass to Aric Evans. The Cavaliers had the lead 43-40.
Lambuth would play the role of spoiler, however, and drive the ball right down the field. The Eagles scored on a Josh Garza 27-yard pass to R.P. Harris, with only 17 seconds remaining in the game. That score sealed the game for the Cavs, 47-43.
“Offensively and defensively we are just too inconsistent,” said Wasem. “Special teams set them up for two scores too. We still are not hitting on all cylinders.”
The Cavaliers will play next week at #25 Shorter (Ga.), while Lambuth will host Union College. Both games are set for a 1:30 kickoff time.
1 2 3 4 FINAL
Lambuth 7 14 12 14 47
UVA-Wise 21 7 7 8 43
UVA-Wise – Ra’Shad Morgan 80-yard run (Damm kick)
UVA-Wise – Randy Hippeard 65-yard pass to Matt Barbour (Damm kick)
Lambuth – Rad. Raquedan 18-yard run (Nanney kick)
UVA-Wise – Randy Hippeard 4-yard pass to Dustin Thompson (Damm kick)
Lambuth – Josh Garza 5-yard run (Nanney kick)
UVA-Wise – Randy Hippeard 4-yard pass to Aric Evans (Damm kick)
Lambuth – Josh Garza 1-yard pass to Clint Anderson (Nanney kick)
Lambuth – Josh Garza 2-yard run (kick failed)
UVA-Wise – Ra’Shad Morgan 19-yard run (Damm kick)
Lambuth – Josh Garza 10-yard pass to B. Okechukwu (conversion failed)
Lambuth – B. Okechukwu 16-yard run (Nanney kick)
UVA-Wise – Randy Hippeard 21-yard pass to Aric Evans (Ra’Shad Morgan pass)
Lambuth – Josh Garza 27-yard pass to R.P. Harris (Nanney kick)
UVA-Wise Lambuth
First Downs 24 25
Rushing Att-Yards 33-204 47-287
Passes Comp-Att-Int 23-38-1 11-21-0
Passing Yards 335 171
Total Offense 539 458
Punting 3-18.0 4-38.0
Fumbles-Lost 1-1 1-0
Penalties 6-47 5-40
Individual Stats
RUSHING
Lambuth – Raquedan, 20-124, TD; Garza, 15-90, 2 TDs; Ervin, 10-52; Okechukwu, 1-16, TD; DiChiara, 1-5.
UVA-Wise – Morgan, 25-190, 2 TDs; Hippeard, 2-9; Thompson, 2-5.
PASSING
Lambuth – Garza, 11-20-0, 171, 3 TDs; Kelley, 0-1-0, 0.
UVA-Wise – Hippeard, 23-38-1, 335, 3 TDs.
RECEIVING
Lambuth – Harris, 3-83, TD; Abel, 2-36; Kirklin, 2-27; Jackson, 1-10; Okechukwu, 1-10, TD; Ervin, 1-4; Anderson, 1-1, TD.
UVA-Wise – Doe, 10-140; Evans, 6-75, 2 TDs; Barbour, 3-83, TD; Morgan, 2-30; Thompson, 1-4, TD; Watson, 1-3.
By Cody Dalton
TriCitiesSports.com
Wise, VA – After losing last week to Georgetown, the Cavaliers had their home return spoiled by Lambuth, who scored with 17 seconds remaining in the game to edge out the Cavs, 47-43.
“It’s hard to think a whole lot after that game,” said UVA-Wise coach Bruce Wasem. “It is a pretty disappointing finish.”
The Cavaliers started out the game with the momentum. Running back Ra’Shad Morgan ran the first play from scrimmage 80-yards to give the Cavaliers the initial 7-0 lead. After the first stanza, the Cavs led the Eagles 21-7. It looked as if UVA-Wise would win in dominating fashion, but that would soon change.
In the second quarter, the Eagles would respond. Lambuth took their first drive in the 2nd quarter and drove it 80 yards in 5:10 to cut the Cavs advantage to 21-14. Both teams would head into halftime with the score, 28-21, Cavaliers leading.
The third quarter would mirror the way the game had been. Lambuth started out with the ball and scored, but miss the extra point. The score would be 28-27. The Cavs would score on their next drive, followed by a Lambuth score to end the 3rd quarter. The score was 35-33 heading into the final stanza.
The fourth quarter set up an exciting finish for the home crowd. Lambuth would stop UVA-Wise on their opening drive in the quarter and then start a drive on their own. Lambuth would drive 90 yards in seven plays and take the lead, 40-35, with 2:46 remaining.
It looked as if the Cavaliers had the game won, when they converted a 4th and 4 on their final drive. After that, Cavs quarterback Randy Hippeard completed a 21-yard touchdown pass to Aric Evans. The Cavaliers had the lead 43-40.
Lambuth would play the role of spoiler, however, and drive the ball right down the field. The Eagles scored on a Josh Garza 27-yard pass to R.P. Harris, with only 17 seconds remaining in the game. That score sealed the game for the Cavs, 47-43.
“Offensively and defensively we are just too inconsistent,” said Wasem. “Special teams set them up for two scores too. We still are not hitting on all cylinders.”
The Cavaliers will play next week at #25 Shorter (Ga.), while Lambuth will host Union College. Both games are set for a 1:30 kickoff time.
1 2 3 4 FINAL
Lambuth 7 14 12 14 47
UVA-Wise 21 7 7 8 43
UVA-Wise – Ra’Shad Morgan 80-yard run (Damm kick)
UVA-Wise – Randy Hippeard 65-yard pass to Matt Barbour (Damm kick)
Lambuth – Rad. Raquedan 18-yard run (Nanney kick)
UVA-Wise – Randy Hippeard 4-yard pass to Dustin Thompson (Damm kick)
Lambuth – Josh Garza 5-yard run (Nanney kick)
UVA-Wise – Randy Hippeard 4-yard pass to Aric Evans (Damm kick)
Lambuth – Josh Garza 1-yard pass to Clint Anderson (Nanney kick)
Lambuth – Josh Garza 2-yard run (kick failed)
UVA-Wise – Ra’Shad Morgan 19-yard run (Damm kick)
Lambuth – Josh Garza 10-yard pass to B. Okechukwu (conversion failed)
Lambuth – B. Okechukwu 16-yard run (Nanney kick)
UVA-Wise – Randy Hippeard 21-yard pass to Aric Evans (Ra’Shad Morgan pass)
Lambuth – Josh Garza 27-yard pass to R.P. Harris (Nanney kick)
UVA-Wise Lambuth
First Downs 24 25
Rushing Att-Yards 33-204 47-287
Passes Comp-Att-Int 23-38-1 11-21-0
Passing Yards 335 171
Total Offense 539 458
Punting 3-18.0 4-38.0
Fumbles-Lost 1-1 1-0
Penalties 6-47 5-40
Individual Stats
RUSHING
Lambuth – Raquedan, 20-124, TD; Garza, 15-90, 2 TDs; Ervin, 10-52; Okechukwu, 1-16, TD; DiChiara, 1-5.
UVA-Wise – Morgan, 25-190, 2 TDs; Hippeard, 2-9; Thompson, 2-5.
PASSING
Lambuth – Garza, 11-20-0, 171, 3 TDs; Kelley, 0-1-0, 0.
UVA-Wise – Hippeard, 23-38-1, 335, 3 TDs.
RECEIVING
Lambuth – Harris, 3-83, TD; Abel, 2-36; Kirklin, 2-27; Jackson, 1-10; Okechukwu, 1-10, TD; Ervin, 1-4; Anderson, 1-1, TD.
UVA-Wise – Doe, 10-140; Evans, 6-75, 2 TDs; Barbour, 3-83, TD; Morgan, 2-30; Thompson, 1-4, TD; Watson, 1-3.
Cavs look for revenge against Lambuth
October 6, 2006
By Cody Dalton
TriCitiesSports.com
The UVA-Wise Cavs will be in action this Saturday as they host a big rival in the Mid-South Conference, the Lambuth Eagles, at Carl Smith Stadium on Saturday at 1:30 pm.
The Cavs will look to get back on track from last week’s 41-13 loss against NAIA #4 ranked Georgetown College.
“It is always tough to come off of a loss, especially when you wanted to win so badly,” said UVA-Wise coach Bruce Wasem. “The sign of a good team is their ability to bounce back and play well.”
UVA-Wise had a big week, earning the NAIA #18 overall ranking just before that game. Junior running back Ra’Shad Morgan also earned Player of the Week honors in NAIA, with his school record 289 yards rushing, as well as four touchdowns. That was all spoiled for the Cavs against Georgetown, but things can only go up from here.
“This is a big game for us,” said Wasem. “Obviously, it is a bounce back game for us. We have got to get back on track and play our kind of football.”
“We have bigger goals and aspirations for this team this year,” said Junior running back Ra’Shad Morgan. “While it is good recognition to be ranked and we have worked hard to get here, it means nothing if we do not continue to do what got us here.”
UVA-Wise (4-1 overall, 0-1 in the MSC) will also be looking to avenge last year’s 25-21 heartbreaking loss. Last year, Lambuth scored two times in the final stanza to edge of the Cavs. This year, Lambuth has a 2-3 overall record, with both wins coming in Mid-South conference play. However, Coach Wasem thinks that it will be another tough contest.
“I think this year’s game will be every bit as competitive as last year’s,” said Wasem. “They are fine football team. Although they have a 2-3 overall record, they lost to a NCAA Division II team and two teams that are ranked inside the top 12 in NAIA. Their three losses aren’t any indication at where they are at right now. It will be extremely competitive to say the least.”
The game will kickoff at 1:30 pm at Carl Smith Staduim in Wise, Virginia. The game will also air on 93.5 fm in Norton, Virginia and streamed through redzonemedia.com.
By Cody Dalton
TriCitiesSports.com
The UVA-Wise Cavs will be in action this Saturday as they host a big rival in the Mid-South Conference, the Lambuth Eagles, at Carl Smith Stadium on Saturday at 1:30 pm.
The Cavs will look to get back on track from last week’s 41-13 loss against NAIA #4 ranked Georgetown College.
“It is always tough to come off of a loss, especially when you wanted to win so badly,” said UVA-Wise coach Bruce Wasem. “The sign of a good team is their ability to bounce back and play well.”
UVA-Wise had a big week, earning the NAIA #18 overall ranking just before that game. Junior running back Ra’Shad Morgan also earned Player of the Week honors in NAIA, with his school record 289 yards rushing, as well as four touchdowns. That was all spoiled for the Cavs against Georgetown, but things can only go up from here.
“This is a big game for us,” said Wasem. “Obviously, it is a bounce back game for us. We have got to get back on track and play our kind of football.”
“We have bigger goals and aspirations for this team this year,” said Junior running back Ra’Shad Morgan. “While it is good recognition to be ranked and we have worked hard to get here, it means nothing if we do not continue to do what got us here.”
UVA-Wise (4-1 overall, 0-1 in the MSC) will also be looking to avenge last year’s 25-21 heartbreaking loss. Last year, Lambuth scored two times in the final stanza to edge of the Cavs. This year, Lambuth has a 2-3 overall record, with both wins coming in Mid-South conference play. However, Coach Wasem thinks that it will be another tough contest.
“I think this year’s game will be every bit as competitive as last year’s,” said Wasem. “They are fine football team. Although they have a 2-3 overall record, they lost to a NCAA Division II team and two teams that are ranked inside the top 12 in NAIA. Their three losses aren’t any indication at where they are at right now. It will be extremely competitive to say the least.”
The game will kickoff at 1:30 pm at Carl Smith Staduim in Wise, Virginia. The game will also air on 93.5 fm in Norton, Virginia and streamed through redzonemedia.com.
Cavaliers face tough test against Georgetown
September 29, 2006
By Cody Dalton
TriCitiesSports.com
The University of Virginia’s College at Wise football team will face one of its toughest tests of the season on Saturday, when travel on the road to face Georgetown (KY.) in a battle of “David versus Goliath”.
The Cavaliers recently jumped in the NAIA poll, with an overall ranking of No. 18. This is the highest ranked team that Bruce Wasem has coached since he has been at UVA-Wise, beating out the No. 19 ranking of last year’s team, which started 3-0. The Cavaliers opponent, Georgetown, is ranked No. 4 overall in the poll.
“This is an exciting game for us,” said UVA-Wise coach Bruce Wasem. “It is the type of game that you live to play and coach. Our shot at a conference championship and national recognition is on the line.”
“We are looking forward to the game this week against Georgetown,” said running back Ra’Shad Morgan. “It gives us a chance to prove ourselves.”
Last year, the Cavaliers were defeated by Georgetown, 51-6. The Cavaliers have also lost all of the six meetings they have had with the Tigers. They hope that this year they can avenge that loss and make a huge mark not only in the Mid-South Conference.
“We have bigger goals and aspirations for this team this year, said Morgan. “While it’s good to be ranked and worked hard to get there, it means nothing if we don’t continue to do what got us here.
Not only did the Cavaliers team receive the high honor of being ranked in the NAIA poll, but junior running back Ra’Shad Morgan received NAIA player of the week. Morgan rushed for a school record 289 yards and four touchdowns in the Cavaliers 59-42 win over Cumberland University last week.
“It felt good to be recognized as the NAIA player of the week, but it was a true team effort,” said Morgan. “It also feels good to hold the record. I have only my teammates to thank for that accomplishment.”
What the future holds for the Cavaliers is uncertain at this point. Certainly, a big win over a team like Georgetown would propel the Cavs even higher in the poll.
“Everyone on the team is prepared and focused for the game,” said coach Wasem. “This is a great type of situation to be in.”
For those that wish to catch the game, it will be at 1 pm at Toyota Stadium in Georgetown, Ky. The game will also on 93.5 fm in Norton, Virginia.
By Cody Dalton
TriCitiesSports.com
The University of Virginia’s College at Wise football team will face one of its toughest tests of the season on Saturday, when travel on the road to face Georgetown (KY.) in a battle of “David versus Goliath”.
The Cavaliers recently jumped in the NAIA poll, with an overall ranking of No. 18. This is the highest ranked team that Bruce Wasem has coached since he has been at UVA-Wise, beating out the No. 19 ranking of last year’s team, which started 3-0. The Cavaliers opponent, Georgetown, is ranked No. 4 overall in the poll.
“This is an exciting game for us,” said UVA-Wise coach Bruce Wasem. “It is the type of game that you live to play and coach. Our shot at a conference championship and national recognition is on the line.”
“We are looking forward to the game this week against Georgetown,” said running back Ra’Shad Morgan. “It gives us a chance to prove ourselves.”
Last year, the Cavaliers were defeated by Georgetown, 51-6. The Cavaliers have also lost all of the six meetings they have had with the Tigers. They hope that this year they can avenge that loss and make a huge mark not only in the Mid-South Conference.
“We have bigger goals and aspirations for this team this year, said Morgan. “While it’s good to be ranked and worked hard to get there, it means nothing if we don’t continue to do what got us here.
Not only did the Cavaliers team receive the high honor of being ranked in the NAIA poll, but junior running back Ra’Shad Morgan received NAIA player of the week. Morgan rushed for a school record 289 yards and four touchdowns in the Cavaliers 59-42 win over Cumberland University last week.
“It felt good to be recognized as the NAIA player of the week, but it was a true team effort,” said Morgan. “It also feels good to hold the record. I have only my teammates to thank for that accomplishment.”
What the future holds for the Cavaliers is uncertain at this point. Certainly, a big win over a team like Georgetown would propel the Cavs even higher in the poll.
“Everyone on the team is prepared and focused for the game,” said coach Wasem. “This is a great type of situation to be in.”
For those that wish to catch the game, it will be at 1 pm at Toyota Stadium in Georgetown, Ky. The game will also on 93.5 fm in Norton, Virginia.
UVA-Wise Hosts Cumberland University for Homecoming
Cody Dalton
TriCitiesSports.com
September 22, 2006
The UVA-Wise football team will play in the traditional homecoming football game this Saturday at 1:30 p.m. against Cumberland University.
The Highland Cavaliers are coming into the game 3-0, outscoring their opponents 141-68. The game is not only the homecoming game, but also the Mid-South Conference opener for the Cavaliers football team. The Cavaliers homecoming opponent, Cumberland University, is coming into the game with a 1-1 record.
The games Cumberland won and lost were both by a margin of 7 points, which could only mean that the Cavaliers will have a tough task coming Saturday.
“It is a big game for us,” said Coach Bruce Wasem. “This game starts the Mid-South Conference schedule. This will be a game where we have to prove ourselves in. Last year, we fell on our faces and it was a game we should have won.”
The Cavaliers are having success at throwing the ball to set up the running game. Last week against Southern Virginia, running back Ra’Shad Morgan had 5 rushing touchdowns as a result. Cavalier quarterbacks Randy Hippeard and Brad Robbins both had passing touchdowns as well for the Cavaliers.
“We are so balanced offensively that we could go either way,” said Coach Bruce Wasem. “If a team can stop us from running the football, we can beat them by passing. That makes us extremely difficult to defend.”
The Cavaliers and Cumberland University have also split their only 10 meetings. A win this Saturday for the Cavaliers would also equal their greatest start since 1996, when the team went undefeated with a 10-0 record.
“We would like to be undefeated,” said Coach Wasem. “We have to get to 4-0 first and then take it one week at a time.”
“Last year we went down to Cumberland and took an early 21-0 lead,” said Cavaliers quarterback Randy Hippeard. “We got too comfortable and they ended up fighting back and winning the football game. We have to come out this game and fight to the final whistle.”
In anticipation of the game on Saturday, a pep rally will be held Friday before the game at the annual “Red and Grey” Day. For those that wish to see the UVA-Wise vs. Cumberland University, you can catch the Cavaliers homecoming game this Saturday at 1:30 p.m. at Carl Smith Stadium.
TriCitiesSports.com
September 22, 2006
The UVA-Wise football team will play in the traditional homecoming football game this Saturday at 1:30 p.m. against Cumberland University.
The Highland Cavaliers are coming into the game 3-0, outscoring their opponents 141-68. The game is not only the homecoming game, but also the Mid-South Conference opener for the Cavaliers football team. The Cavaliers homecoming opponent, Cumberland University, is coming into the game with a 1-1 record.
The games Cumberland won and lost were both by a margin of 7 points, which could only mean that the Cavaliers will have a tough task coming Saturday.
“It is a big game for us,” said Coach Bruce Wasem. “This game starts the Mid-South Conference schedule. This will be a game where we have to prove ourselves in. Last year, we fell on our faces and it was a game we should have won.”
The Cavaliers are having success at throwing the ball to set up the running game. Last week against Southern Virginia, running back Ra’Shad Morgan had 5 rushing touchdowns as a result. Cavalier quarterbacks Randy Hippeard and Brad Robbins both had passing touchdowns as well for the Cavaliers.
“We are so balanced offensively that we could go either way,” said Coach Bruce Wasem. “If a team can stop us from running the football, we can beat them by passing. That makes us extremely difficult to defend.”
The Cavaliers and Cumberland University have also split their only 10 meetings. A win this Saturday for the Cavaliers would also equal their greatest start since 1996, when the team went undefeated with a 10-0 record.
“We would like to be undefeated,” said Coach Wasem. “We have to get to 4-0 first and then take it one week at a time.”
“Last year we went down to Cumberland and took an early 21-0 lead,” said Cavaliers quarterback Randy Hippeard. “We got too comfortable and they ended up fighting back and winning the football game. We have to come out this game and fight to the final whistle.”
In anticipation of the game on Saturday, a pep rally will be held Friday before the game at the annual “Red and Grey” Day. For those that wish to see the UVA-Wise vs. Cumberland University, you can catch the Cavaliers homecoming game this Saturday at 1:30 p.m. at Carl Smith Stadium.
Cavaliers prepare for Southern Virginia
Cody Dalton
September 13, 2006
The UVA-Wise Cavalier football team opened up the season with an impressive mark of 2-0 and look to keep that mark going with a win against Southern Virginia this Saturday.
In the Cavaliers previous two games, they defeated their opponents with a combined 92-55 score (44-20 against Brevard, 48-35 against North Greenville). They have also shown great sparks on offense, with a strong balanced running and passing game. They have 543 yards passing and 288 yards rushing on the ground. Coach Bruce Wasem seems pleased with his teams effort.
“We would like to have a balanced offense,” said Coach Wasem. “We want to have an attack so that every team we play has to defend both sides of the ball.”
The Cavaliers have also found great strides on the defensive side of the ball, forcing their opponents to give up 9 turnovers, 7 of which were fumbles. The Cavaliers defensive effort has also contributed heavily to the success of the Cavaliers winning streak.
“There is different ways to win games on defense,” said Coach Wasem. “The team that can force turnovers can change to momentum and emotion.”
These two attacks were rewarded last week with MSC (Mid-South Conference honors. Ra’Shad Morgan received the Offensive Player of the Week and Reggie Dorsainvil earned Defensive Player of the Week. If the Cavaliers expect to win, they need to keep up this hard-working effort again this week. Coach Bruce Wasem thought having a week off to prepare was a good thing for the team.
“It’s just good to play again and having that open week early,” said coach Wasem. “It gave us a chance to work on some things we need to improve.”
Last year, the Cavaliers defeated Southern Virginia in a nail-biting finish. Every play seemed key to the overall outcome of that game. Quarterback Randy Hippeard believes that the team needs to continue to play the entire game.
“Last year when we came out really sluggish,” said Hippeard. “They ended up making a real tough game of it.”
“This week, we have to come out ready to play,” said quarterback Randy Hippeard. “We don’t need to let up until the clock reads zero.”
With two wins under their belt, the Cavaliers certainly have the momentum on their side. “Coming off of the win against North Greenville,” said coach Wasem. “It is great to get into the next game and play again.
So will the Cavaliers reach a 3-0 mark? Will the balanced attack of offense and defense be enough to stop Southern Virginia in their tracks? You can find out this Saturday at 7 p.m. at Carl Smith Stadium.
September 13, 2006
The UVA-Wise Cavalier football team opened up the season with an impressive mark of 2-0 and look to keep that mark going with a win against Southern Virginia this Saturday.
In the Cavaliers previous two games, they defeated their opponents with a combined 92-55 score (44-20 against Brevard, 48-35 against North Greenville). They have also shown great sparks on offense, with a strong balanced running and passing game. They have 543 yards passing and 288 yards rushing on the ground. Coach Bruce Wasem seems pleased with his teams effort.
“We would like to have a balanced offense,” said Coach Wasem. “We want to have an attack so that every team we play has to defend both sides of the ball.”
The Cavaliers have also found great strides on the defensive side of the ball, forcing their opponents to give up 9 turnovers, 7 of which were fumbles. The Cavaliers defensive effort has also contributed heavily to the success of the Cavaliers winning streak.
“There is different ways to win games on defense,” said Coach Wasem. “The team that can force turnovers can change to momentum and emotion.”
These two attacks were rewarded last week with MSC (Mid-South Conference honors. Ra’Shad Morgan received the Offensive Player of the Week and Reggie Dorsainvil earned Defensive Player of the Week. If the Cavaliers expect to win, they need to keep up this hard-working effort again this week. Coach Bruce Wasem thought having a week off to prepare was a good thing for the team.
“It’s just good to play again and having that open week early,” said coach Wasem. “It gave us a chance to work on some things we need to improve.”
Last year, the Cavaliers defeated Southern Virginia in a nail-biting finish. Every play seemed key to the overall outcome of that game. Quarterback Randy Hippeard believes that the team needs to continue to play the entire game.
“Last year when we came out really sluggish,” said Hippeard. “They ended up making a real tough game of it.”
“This week, we have to come out ready to play,” said quarterback Randy Hippeard. “We don’t need to let up until the clock reads zero.”
With two wins under their belt, the Cavaliers certainly have the momentum on their side. “Coming off of the win against North Greenville,” said coach Wasem. “It is great to get into the next game and play again.
So will the Cavaliers reach a 3-0 mark? Will the balanced attack of offense and defense be enough to stop Southern Virginia in their tracks? You can find out this Saturday at 7 p.m. at Carl Smith Stadium.
Blue Devils Look to Bounce Back Against Powell Valley
By Cody Dalton
TriCitiesSports.com
October 18, 2006
After a heartbreaking loss in overtime to Clintwood last week, the Gate City Blue Devils will be looking to get back on track when they host Powell Valley th is Friday at Legion Field.
The Blue Devils (4-3, 3-1 LPD) have lost two of their last three games heading into Friday’s contest. A loss for either team could knock them out of the VHSL playoffs. Going in, Powell Valley is third among Region D, Division 2 teams with a 14.4 power rating and Gate City is fourth at 13.4 -- barely ahead of Clintwood, which is at 13.3. Haysi leads with a 15.3 power rating, while Honaker is at 14.5. Gate City still has to play Appalachia (6-1) and Burton (7-0) after playing Powell Valley.
“We have a bunch of fighters on this team,” said coach Nick Colobro. “We played hard against Clintwood. That is behind us and we can’t dwell on it.”
Powell Valley had done the exact opposite. The Vikings haver won two games in a row and have momentum coming into their road game on Friday.
"Coming out of our bye week a few weeks ago, we wanted to make sure we established momentum for the rest of the season,'' said Powell Valley coach Phil Robbins. "I think we have done so thus far. We have to keep that going against Gate City.''
Powell Valley (4-3, 3-1 LPD) offers a test to the Blue Devils. The Indians are averaging 29.4 points per game, while the Blue Devils average 23.9 per game.
“I don’t think it matters what the team’s records are,” said Robbins. “I just think it is going to be one heck of a football game.”
The winner of the Gate City-Powell Valley game will help to cement their position in the VHSL Class A, Region D, Division 2 playoff picture.
“It is going to be a competitive contest,” said Colobro. “I hope that we go out and play the best we can play. That is all you can ask for.”
Powell Valley's lone district loss came at the hands of unbeaten J.I. Burton, 32-13. The Vikings also lost to Seymour (Tenn.) 38-7 and to Breathitt, Ky. (42-28). The wins have come against Lee (40-6), Pound (55-0), Clintwood (21-14) and J.J. Kelly (42-6) last week. Gate City's losses were to unbeaten Richlands (48-14) and Virginia High (17-14) and then at Clintwood last week, 17-14 in overtime. Wins were over Coeburn (34-6), Pound (24-6), at Lee (34-14) and over Kelly (33-6).
Here are Friday’s probable lineups:
Gate City Blue Devils (4-3, 3-1 LPD)
Offense
TE – 87 Matt Bays, 6-4, 200 Jr.
RT – 56 Jacob Jones, 6-0, 230 Sr.
RG – 73 Jon Pope, 6-3, 290 Sr.
C – 50 Seth Musick, 5-9, 215 Jr.
LG – 51 Justin Faulkner, 5-11, 200 Sr.
LT – 54 Quintin Jones, 6-4, 270 Sol.
SE – 81 Corey Smith, 5-7, 130 Jr.
QB – 12 Tihlee Anderson, 5-8, 150 So.
RB – 20 Tyler Parks, 5-7, 180 Jr.
FB – 34 Jordan Estepp, 6-3, 190 So.
FL – 21 Jesse Broadwater, 5-10, 158 Jr.
PK – 10 Ked Byrd, 5-6, 135 So.
Defense
DE – 30 Cody Hensley, 6-0, 180 Fr.
DT – 55 Jake Carter, 6-5, 230 Sr.
DT – 62 Josh Powers, 5-9, 235 Jr.
DE – 52 Tyler Tiller, 6-0, 205 So.
LB – 33 Cameron Browder, 6-0, 196 So.
LB – 71 Jason Begley, 5-8, 200 So.
LB – 34 Jordan Estepp, 6-3, 190 So.
DB – 2 Dustin Faulkner, 5-11, 155 Jr.
DB – 12 Tihlee Anderson, 5-8, 150 So.
DB – 43 Eric Hutchins, 6-2, 185 So.
DB – 23 Will Godsey, 5-9, 140 So.
P – 20 Tyler Parks, 5-7, 180 Jr.
Powell Valley (4-3, 3-1 LPD)
Offense
WR – 10 Delmas Lawson, 6-0, 190 Jr.
WR – 12 Stephen Mumpower, 6-1, 165 Sr.
WR – 21 Terrell Turner, 6-1, 150 Jr.
WR – 3 David Herron, 5-10, 140 Jr.
LT – 51 Casey Bentley, 6-3, 252 Sr.
LG – 50 Christopher Fraley, 6-0, 185 So.
C – 76 Jason Neeley, 6-0, 275 Sr.
RG – 61 Dustin Bentley, 6-0, 212 Jr.
RT – 73 Jacob Thomas, 6-2, 290 Sr.
RB – 16 Myron Pinkston, 5-10, 200 Fr.
QB – 1 Cedric Mitchell, 6-1, 185 Jr.
PK – 76 Jason Neeley, 6-0, 275 Sr.
Defense
DE – 53 Wes Isom, 6-0, 240 Sr.
DE – 40 Joshua Spurlock, 6-4, 205 Sr.
DT – 50 Christopher Fraley, 6-0, 185 So.
DT – 79 Chad Jones, 6-2, 210 Jr.
LB – 2 Brian Murphy, 6-1, 210 Sr.
LB – 13 Trey Garrison, 5-10, 190 Jr.
LB – 24 John Michael Allen, 5-8, 175 Jr.
LB – 16 Myron Pinkston, 5-10, 200 Fr.
CB – 10 Delmas Lawson, 6-0 190 Jr.
CB – 12 Stephen Mumpower, 6-1, 165 Sr.
S – 81 Nick Ratliff, 5-10, 155 Jr.
P – 10 Delmas Lawson, 6-0, 190 Jr.
TriCitiesSports.com
October 18, 2006
After a heartbreaking loss in overtime to Clintwood last week, the Gate City Blue Devils will be looking to get back on track when they host Powell Valley th is Friday at Legion Field.
The Blue Devils (4-3, 3-1 LPD) have lost two of their last three games heading into Friday’s contest. A loss for either team could knock them out of the VHSL playoffs. Going in, Powell Valley is third among Region D, Division 2 teams with a 14.4 power rating and Gate City is fourth at 13.4 -- barely ahead of Clintwood, which is at 13.3. Haysi leads with a 15.3 power rating, while Honaker is at 14.5. Gate City still has to play Appalachia (6-1) and Burton (7-0) after playing Powell Valley.
“We have a bunch of fighters on this team,” said coach Nick Colobro. “We played hard against Clintwood. That is behind us and we can’t dwell on it.”
Powell Valley had done the exact opposite. The Vikings haver won two games in a row and have momentum coming into their road game on Friday.
"Coming out of our bye week a few weeks ago, we wanted to make sure we established momentum for the rest of the season,'' said Powell Valley coach Phil Robbins. "I think we have done so thus far. We have to keep that going against Gate City.''
Powell Valley (4-3, 3-1 LPD) offers a test to the Blue Devils. The Indians are averaging 29.4 points per game, while the Blue Devils average 23.9 per game.
“I don’t think it matters what the team’s records are,” said Robbins. “I just think it is going to be one heck of a football game.”
The winner of the Gate City-Powell Valley game will help to cement their position in the VHSL Class A, Region D, Division 2 playoff picture.
“It is going to be a competitive contest,” said Colobro. “I hope that we go out and play the best we can play. That is all you can ask for.”
Powell Valley's lone district loss came at the hands of unbeaten J.I. Burton, 32-13. The Vikings also lost to Seymour (Tenn.) 38-7 and to Breathitt, Ky. (42-28). The wins have come against Lee (40-6), Pound (55-0), Clintwood (21-14) and J.J. Kelly (42-6) last week. Gate City's losses were to unbeaten Richlands (48-14) and Virginia High (17-14) and then at Clintwood last week, 17-14 in overtime. Wins were over Coeburn (34-6), Pound (24-6), at Lee (34-14) and over Kelly (33-6).
Here are Friday’s probable lineups:
Gate City Blue Devils (4-3, 3-1 LPD)
Offense
TE – 87 Matt Bays, 6-4, 200 Jr.
RT – 56 Jacob Jones, 6-0, 230 Sr.
RG – 73 Jon Pope, 6-3, 290 Sr.
C – 50 Seth Musick, 5-9, 215 Jr.
LG – 51 Justin Faulkner, 5-11, 200 Sr.
LT – 54 Quintin Jones, 6-4, 270 Sol.
SE – 81 Corey Smith, 5-7, 130 Jr.
QB – 12 Tihlee Anderson, 5-8, 150 So.
RB – 20 Tyler Parks, 5-7, 180 Jr.
FB – 34 Jordan Estepp, 6-3, 190 So.
FL – 21 Jesse Broadwater, 5-10, 158 Jr.
PK – 10 Ked Byrd, 5-6, 135 So.
Defense
DE – 30 Cody Hensley, 6-0, 180 Fr.
DT – 55 Jake Carter, 6-5, 230 Sr.
DT – 62 Josh Powers, 5-9, 235 Jr.
DE – 52 Tyler Tiller, 6-0, 205 So.
LB – 33 Cameron Browder, 6-0, 196 So.
LB – 71 Jason Begley, 5-8, 200 So.
LB – 34 Jordan Estepp, 6-3, 190 So.
DB – 2 Dustin Faulkner, 5-11, 155 Jr.
DB – 12 Tihlee Anderson, 5-8, 150 So.
DB – 43 Eric Hutchins, 6-2, 185 So.
DB – 23 Will Godsey, 5-9, 140 So.
P – 20 Tyler Parks, 5-7, 180 Jr.
Powell Valley (4-3, 3-1 LPD)
Offense
WR – 10 Delmas Lawson, 6-0, 190 Jr.
WR – 12 Stephen Mumpower, 6-1, 165 Sr.
WR – 21 Terrell Turner, 6-1, 150 Jr.
WR – 3 David Herron, 5-10, 140 Jr.
LT – 51 Casey Bentley, 6-3, 252 Sr.
LG – 50 Christopher Fraley, 6-0, 185 So.
C – 76 Jason Neeley, 6-0, 275 Sr.
RG – 61 Dustin Bentley, 6-0, 212 Jr.
RT – 73 Jacob Thomas, 6-2, 290 Sr.
RB – 16 Myron Pinkston, 5-10, 200 Fr.
QB – 1 Cedric Mitchell, 6-1, 185 Jr.
PK – 76 Jason Neeley, 6-0, 275 Sr.
Defense
DE – 53 Wes Isom, 6-0, 240 Sr.
DE – 40 Joshua Spurlock, 6-4, 205 Sr.
DT – 50 Christopher Fraley, 6-0, 185 So.
DT – 79 Chad Jones, 6-2, 210 Jr.
LB – 2 Brian Murphy, 6-1, 210 Sr.
LB – 13 Trey Garrison, 5-10, 190 Jr.
LB – 24 John Michael Allen, 5-8, 175 Jr.
LB – 16 Myron Pinkston, 5-10, 200 Fr.
CB – 10 Delmas Lawson, 6-0 190 Jr.
CB – 12 Stephen Mumpower, 6-1, 165 Sr.
S – 81 Nick Ratliff, 5-10, 155 Jr.
P – 10 Delmas Lawson, 6-0, 190 Jr.
Gate City has momentum on their side as they take on Clintwood
By Cody Dalton
TriCitiesSports.com
October 11, 2006
The Blue Devils of Gate City will look to continue their winning streak as they travel to take on the Clintwood Greenwave this Friday.
Gate City (4-2, 3-0), has momentum as they coming off of a 35-20 winning over the J.J. Kelly Indians. The Greenwave (2-4, 1-3) had its two game winning streak snapped after losing 21-14 in a heartbreaking contest to Powell Valley.
Friday’s contest looks to be an extremely competitive one. Clintwood averages 25.2 points per game, while Gate City averages 25.5 a game. If this statistic holds true, then the scoring in this game will be competitive.
“Clintwood always plays tough physical football,” said Coach Nick Colobro. “They gave us a tough test the past two years. We can’t assume we will beat them or we will lose.”
The Gate City-Clintwood series has been one dominated by the Blue Devils. Last year, the Blue Devils beat Clintwood 35-20, propelling them into the Region D playoffs.
“Last year was a tough contest,” said Colobro. “We can’t afford to slack off in this game. Every game we play from here on out is a playoff game.”
Gate City most likely needs to win out their schedule in order to win the Lonesome Pine District crown and secure a playoff position. J. I. Burton (7-0, 4-0) remains undefeated and in 1st place over Gate City in the Lonesome Pine District.
“This should be an interesting remainder of our season,” said Colobro. “I believe our team is prepared for this tough task.”
Gate City Blue Devils (4-2, 3-0)
Offense
TE -- 87 Matt Bays, 6-4, 200 Jr.
RT -- 56 Jacob Jones, 6-0, 230 Sr.
RG -- 73 Jon Pope, 6-3, 290 Sr.
C -- 50 Seth Musick, 5-9, 215 Jr.
LG -- 51 Justin Faulkner, 5-11, 200 Sr.
LT -- 54 Quintin Jones, 6-4, 270 Sol.
SE -- 81 Corey Smith, 5-7, 130 Jr.
QB -- 12 Tihlee Anderson, 5-8, 150 So.
RB -- 20 Tyler Parks, 5-7, 180 Jr.
FB -- 34 Jordan Estepp, 6-3, 190 So.
FL -- 21 Jesse Broadwater, 5-10, 158 Jr.
PK -- 10 Ked Byrd, 5-6, 135 So.
Defense
DE -- 30 Cody Hensley, 6-0, 180 Fr.
DT -- 55 Jake Carter, 6-5, 230 Sr.
DT -- 62 Josh Powers, 5-9, 235 Jr.
DE -- 52 Tyler Tiller, 6-0, 205 So.
LB -- 33 Cameron Browder, 6-0, 196 So.
LB -- 71 Jason Begley, 5-8, 200 So.
LB -- 34 Jordan Estepp, 6-3, 190 So.
DB -- 2 Dustin Faulkner, 5-11, 155 Jr.
DB -- 12 Tihlee Anderson, 5-8, 150 So.
DB -- 43 Eric Hutchins, 6-2, 185 So.
DB -- 23 Will Godsey, 5-9, 140 So.
P -- 20 Tyler Parks, 5-7, 180 Jr.
TriCitiesSports.com
October 11, 2006
The Blue Devils of Gate City will look to continue their winning streak as they travel to take on the Clintwood Greenwave this Friday.
Gate City (4-2, 3-0), has momentum as they coming off of a 35-20 winning over the J.J. Kelly Indians. The Greenwave (2-4, 1-3) had its two game winning streak snapped after losing 21-14 in a heartbreaking contest to Powell Valley.
Friday’s contest looks to be an extremely competitive one. Clintwood averages 25.2 points per game, while Gate City averages 25.5 a game. If this statistic holds true, then the scoring in this game will be competitive.
“Clintwood always plays tough physical football,” said Coach Nick Colobro. “They gave us a tough test the past two years. We can’t assume we will beat them or we will lose.”
The Gate City-Clintwood series has been one dominated by the Blue Devils. Last year, the Blue Devils beat Clintwood 35-20, propelling them into the Region D playoffs.
“Last year was a tough contest,” said Colobro. “We can’t afford to slack off in this game. Every game we play from here on out is a playoff game.”
Gate City most likely needs to win out their schedule in order to win the Lonesome Pine District crown and secure a playoff position. J. I. Burton (7-0, 4-0) remains undefeated and in 1st place over Gate City in the Lonesome Pine District.
“This should be an interesting remainder of our season,” said Colobro. “I believe our team is prepared for this tough task.”
Gate City Blue Devils (4-2, 3-0)
Offense
TE -- 87 Matt Bays, 6-4, 200 Jr.
RT -- 56 Jacob Jones, 6-0, 230 Sr.
RG -- 73 Jon Pope, 6-3, 290 Sr.
C -- 50 Seth Musick, 5-9, 215 Jr.
LG -- 51 Justin Faulkner, 5-11, 200 Sr.
LT -- 54 Quintin Jones, 6-4, 270 Sol.
SE -- 81 Corey Smith, 5-7, 130 Jr.
QB -- 12 Tihlee Anderson, 5-8, 150 So.
RB -- 20 Tyler Parks, 5-7, 180 Jr.
FB -- 34 Jordan Estepp, 6-3, 190 So.
FL -- 21 Jesse Broadwater, 5-10, 158 Jr.
PK -- 10 Ked Byrd, 5-6, 135 So.
Defense
DE -- 30 Cody Hensley, 6-0, 180 Fr.
DT -- 55 Jake Carter, 6-5, 230 Sr.
DT -- 62 Josh Powers, 5-9, 235 Jr.
DE -- 52 Tyler Tiller, 6-0, 205 So.
LB -- 33 Cameron Browder, 6-0, 196 So.
LB -- 71 Jason Begley, 5-8, 200 So.
LB -- 34 Jordan Estepp, 6-3, 190 So.
DB -- 2 Dustin Faulkner, 5-11, 155 Jr.
DB -- 12 Tihlee Anderson, 5-8, 150 So.
DB -- 43 Eric Hutchins, 6-2, 185 So.
DB -- 23 Will Godsey, 5-9, 140 So.
P -- 20 Tyler Parks, 5-7, 180 Jr.
Devils demolish Indians at homecoming, 33-6
By Cody Dalton
TriCitiesSports.com
October 6, 2006
Gate City – Quarterback Tihlee Anderson and running back Tyler Parks both had sparks on offense and defense, as they led Gate City to a 33-6 homecoming game victory over the J.J. Kelly Indians on Friday at Legion Field.
The Devils played one of their most complete games of the year, as they scored through the run and pass. They also scored on defense, as an interception was returned by Tihlee Anderson for a touchdown.
“I am please with the victory,” said Gate City coach Nick Colobro. “I the kids bounced back, especially coming off of the tough loss last week.”
The victory was even more special for the team, being that it was homecoming for the school and a very special time for the seniors.
“It was very important to win tonight,” said quarterback Tihlee Anderson. “This was our senior’s last homecoming game playing on this field. We wanted to send them out with a bang.”
Gate City would score on their second possession of the game, with a Tyler Parks 12-yard touchdown run to give them the early 7-0 lead.
The Devils would answer in the second quarter in back-to-back plays, as Tihlee Anderson hit Dustin Jones for a 10-yard touchdown pass that would spread their lead to 14-0.
J.J. Kelly would take the ball the next possession and it would be intercepted by Tihlee Anderson and returned 35-yards for the defensive touchdown. The extra point would be missed, but the Devils would lead 20-0 at the break.
The Indians came out of the locker room motivated to get on the board. They took their first possession in the 2nd half and drove 75 yards in 13 plays, which was finished by a Devan Sproles 1-yard touchdown run. The Indian’s still trailed 20-6.
Gate City put the game far out of reach on the very next drive, with a Tyler Parks 53-yard touchdown run. The Devils added on a final score with 3:28 remaining in the game to make the final tally, 33-6
“We are going to enjoy this win tonight,” said Colobro. “We need to try to get better and fix our mistakes. We will get the kids back here on the field on Monday because we have a really tough road game next week.
The Blue Devils (4-2, 3-0) will head to Clintwood next Friday, while the J.J. Kelly Indians (2-4, 1-3) will be on the road at Powell Valley.
1 2 3 4 FINAL
J.J. Kelly 0 0 6 0 6
Gate City 7 13 6 7 33
Gate City – Tyler Parks 12-yard run (Ked Byrd kick)
Gate City – Tihlee Anderson 10-yard pass to Dustin Jones (Ked Byrd kick)
Gate City – Tihlee Anderson 35-yard interception return (kick failed)
J.J. Kelly – Devan Sproles 1-yard run (2-point conversion no good)
Gate City – Tyler Parks 53-yard run (Ked Byrd kick)
Gate City – Eric Hutchins 3-yard run (Ked Byrd kick)
J.J. Kelly Gate City
First Downs 10 10
Rushing Att-Yards 40-208 38-199
Passes Comp-Att-Int 2-9-1 4-11-1
Passing Yards 40 68
Total Offense 168 274
Punting 4-42.8 5-46.2
Fumbles-Lost 1-1 0-0
Penalties 3-15 8-50
Individual Stats:
Rushing:
J.J. Kelly – Sproles, 16-92, TD; Gilliam, 14-21; Collins, 9-15.
Gate City – Parks, 16-126, 2 TDs; Estepp, 7-17; Anderson, 6-53, Godsey, 4-8; Hutchins, 1-2, TD.
Passing:
J.J. Kelly – Dotson, 2-9-1, 40, 0 TDs; Sproles, 0-1-0, 0, 0 TD.
Gate City – Anderson, 4-11-1, 68, 1 TD; Parks, 0-1-1, 0, 0 TD.
Receiving:
J.J. Kelly – Gilliam, 1-35; Collins, 1-5.
Gate City – Jones, 2-31, TD; Parks, 1-25; Broadwater, 1-1
TriCitiesSports.com
October 6, 2006
Gate City – Quarterback Tihlee Anderson and running back Tyler Parks both had sparks on offense and defense, as they led Gate City to a 33-6 homecoming game victory over the J.J. Kelly Indians on Friday at Legion Field.
The Devils played one of their most complete games of the year, as they scored through the run and pass. They also scored on defense, as an interception was returned by Tihlee Anderson for a touchdown.
“I am please with the victory,” said Gate City coach Nick Colobro. “I the kids bounced back, especially coming off of the tough loss last week.”
The victory was even more special for the team, being that it was homecoming for the school and a very special time for the seniors.
“It was very important to win tonight,” said quarterback Tihlee Anderson. “This was our senior’s last homecoming game playing on this field. We wanted to send them out with a bang.”
Gate City would score on their second possession of the game, with a Tyler Parks 12-yard touchdown run to give them the early 7-0 lead.
The Devils would answer in the second quarter in back-to-back plays, as Tihlee Anderson hit Dustin Jones for a 10-yard touchdown pass that would spread their lead to 14-0.
J.J. Kelly would take the ball the next possession and it would be intercepted by Tihlee Anderson and returned 35-yards for the defensive touchdown. The extra point would be missed, but the Devils would lead 20-0 at the break.
The Indians came out of the locker room motivated to get on the board. They took their first possession in the 2nd half and drove 75 yards in 13 plays, which was finished by a Devan Sproles 1-yard touchdown run. The Indian’s still trailed 20-6.
Gate City put the game far out of reach on the very next drive, with a Tyler Parks 53-yard touchdown run. The Devils added on a final score with 3:28 remaining in the game to make the final tally, 33-6
“We are going to enjoy this win tonight,” said Colobro. “We need to try to get better and fix our mistakes. We will get the kids back here on the field on Monday because we have a really tough road game next week.
The Blue Devils (4-2, 3-0) will head to Clintwood next Friday, while the J.J. Kelly Indians (2-4, 1-3) will be on the road at Powell Valley.
1 2 3 4 FINAL
J.J. Kelly 0 0 6 0 6
Gate City 7 13 6 7 33
Gate City – Tyler Parks 12-yard run (Ked Byrd kick)
Gate City – Tihlee Anderson 10-yard pass to Dustin Jones (Ked Byrd kick)
Gate City – Tihlee Anderson 35-yard interception return (kick failed)
J.J. Kelly – Devan Sproles 1-yard run (2-point conversion no good)
Gate City – Tyler Parks 53-yard run (Ked Byrd kick)
Gate City – Eric Hutchins 3-yard run (Ked Byrd kick)
J.J. Kelly Gate City
First Downs 10 10
Rushing Att-Yards 40-208 38-199
Passes Comp-Att-Int 2-9-1 4-11-1
Passing Yards 40 68
Total Offense 168 274
Punting 4-42.8 5-46.2
Fumbles-Lost 1-1 0-0
Penalties 3-15 8-50
Individual Stats:
Rushing:
J.J. Kelly – Sproles, 16-92, TD; Gilliam, 14-21; Collins, 9-15.
Gate City – Parks, 16-126, 2 TDs; Estepp, 7-17; Anderson, 6-53, Godsey, 4-8; Hutchins, 1-2, TD.
Passing:
J.J. Kelly – Dotson, 2-9-1, 40, 0 TDs; Sproles, 0-1-0, 0, 0 TD.
Gate City – Anderson, 4-11-1, 68, 1 TD; Parks, 0-1-1, 0, 0 TD.
Receiving:
J.J. Kelly – Gilliam, 1-35; Collins, 1-5.
Gate City – Jones, 2-31, TD; Parks, 1-25; Broadwater, 1-1
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