2005 AA Predictions
2005 BC HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL VARSITY AA PRE-SEASON PREDICTIONS
Note: This document has been compiled by Coach Dave Heskin and Coach Rob Stevenson. We would like to thank all the coaches who have contributed invaluable information to our research base. The coaching fraternity in BC High School Football is alive and well! Our intention is to generate discussion, get a base line of information out to everyone and add to the fun as we enter the 2005 season. Good luck to everyone in the league and we hope you have the very best of experiences on the ol gridiron this year! BC AA Varsity is the Smoke Baby and this will be the most competitive AA league in years! Lets get it on!!!
AA Pre-Season Top 5
1. Windsor
2. John Barsby
3. Mt. Douglas
4. Ballenas
5. Lord Tweedsmuir
Honourable Mention: Frank Hurt, Hugh Boyd, Sands, Clarence Fulton, Westsyde
AA Georgia Strait Conference
Ranking the Georgia Straight Conference
1. Mt. Douglas
2. Lord Tweedsmuir
3. Frank Hurt
4. Mission
5. G.P. Vanier
6. North Surrey
7. Mark Isfield
**Teams listed in projected order of finish.
Mt. Douglas
Nick-name: Rams
Colors: Black Yellow, Purple and White
Head Coach: Mark Townsend/Al Cochraine
Offense: Pro-I
Defense: 3-4
Offensive Outlook: The Ram Offense is all about balance. A very strong running game led by standout Paul Barrazol is complimented by a strong armed quarterback with speed and sure handed receiver Brendan Nery at the receiver position. Up front linemen Sam Coad and Ryan Aune lead a very physical and experienced group. This unit performed well in spring picking up where it left off at the JV level in 04. The Rams look to play it physical on the ground and take their shots from the air as defenses scramble to plug the gaps.
Defensive Outlook: Speed and a big rush at the OLB position characterize this squad. The 3-4 scheme is all the more effective with a dominant player at nose tackle and manimal John Hitchen at 6’1” 285 is a handful up and down the LOS. Spring ball had the Rams scraping well from the ILB position led by hitman Dan Curry. Good run support from the secondary is characterized by this experienced and speedy group. This is a bend but don’t break squad that likes to play it physical. Defensive speed is overall very good.
2005 Projection: The 2005 Ram JV’s were arguably a top 4 team on the field giving the eventual BC championship STM team all it could handle in the quarter-final game. Two years of JV play now has the Ram Varsity prepared for its first serious run at the playoffs in nine years. This team has it all, speed, experience, size, depth and superb coaching. Look for the Rams to win their division, storm into the semi-finals and be a strong contender for the big game in the dome.
Lord Tweedsmuir
Nick-name: Panthers
Colors: Green, Black and White
Head Coach: Kurt Thornton
Offense: Pro I, Power I, Ace, Spread aka. Multiple
Defense: 5-2, 6-2
Offensive Outlook: Tweedsmuir coach Kurt Thornton feels that the Panthers are very strong at the “skill positions” with one of the best backfields in the province and good size on the line. The Panthers are in their sophomore season as a program and are coming off a superb opening year in 04. Speed and experience are the strengths of this unit and it is capable of exploding with the big play on any given down.
Defensive Outlook: The linebacker corps and defensive backs are the strength of this unit led by 2004 last year’s provincial all-star Greg Aniuk . Up front the Panthers will not be overly big but they are fast and athletic. This defense will make team’s with slow developing offensive schemes pay and pay hard.
2005 Projection: Tweedsmuir secured a number two seed in the playoffs with a grade 11 heavy roster last year. This squad returns 13 players including top prospects Jordan Willets and Bryce Warbinek. The addition of a solid group of new players to the varsity should result in a strong playoff showing in 05. Hopes are high within the program as are expectations. The year begins with a visit to Nanaimo to play last year’s playoff nemesis John Barsby in the Labour Day Kick-Off Classic. The game will be a big measure of things to come for the Panthers. Editor’s Pick: Panthers win games they should and a couple where they are underdogs. Mt. Douglas is going to be tough slogging though and a number two divisional finish is likely.
Frank Hurt
Nick-name: Hornets
Colors: Black and Yellow
Co Head Coaches: Mike Biggin and Dave Heskin
Offense: Multiple
Defense: 4-3
Offensive Outlook: A run oriented offense looking to execute well and control the clock will be the hallmark of this attack. There is a lot of size up front this year and the JV’s graduated a lot of talent to the varsity level for 05. A strong arm quarterback is a must for this unit to take its game to the next level via the play action pass and rumour has it that there is a sophomore with all the right tools for getting the job done.
Defensive Outlook: An aggressive defense full of good athletes looking to swarm and create turnovers is what opponents can expect from the defensive bees. Frank Hurt does not get out hit often and the defense will set the tone for the team early in the season.
2005 Projection Although the Hornets will be a young team the coaching staff feels that enthusiasm, athleticism and a solid mental focus will level the playing field with more experienced varsity programs. Editor’s pick: The Hornets sting a higher seed in the wildcard en route to a semi-final run.
Mission
Nick-name: Roadrunners
Colors: Green, Black and White
Head Coach: Kevin Watrin
Offense: Pro-I /Ace
Defense: 4-3, 5-2, 5-3
Offensive Outlook: The focus of the offense will be on senior running back and two year starter Eddy McAllister along with senior tight end Nick Meerstra. Offensive support will be provided by a more experienced OL will help in 2005, but a relatively inexperienced QB and receiving crew are the linger question mark on the Roadrunners offensive attack
Defensive Outlook: A more aggressive attitude on defense will prove to be the reason the defense will be the most improved component of the Roadrunners in 2005. Third year players abound on this unit and the play of the defensive unit will reflect this maturity.
2005 Projection: The Roadrunners coaching staff feels like they have good chance to take the fourth playoff spot in what they see as a very competitive division. Coach Watrin is an elite coach and as the program enters its third year there are budding signs of future greatness to be found. The question is mainly just how soon it all comes together for the Roadrunners.
G.P Vanier
Nick-name: Towhees
Colors: Forest, Silver and Black
Head Coach: Sean Toal
Offense: Multiple
Defense: 5-3
Offensive Outlook: The Towhees look to re-load in 2005 after graduating a number of key starters in 2004. The receiving core looks to be as strong as ever, led by Eli Hilberry (6'1" 180 lbs) who hauled in 24 passes for 561 yards and 7 touchdowns last year. Also returning in the receiving core are Matt Fuller and Aurin Savoie who have great speed to stretch opposing defenses. While losing conference all-star RB Alain Lepine will tough, the Towhees have a number of players willing to step-up in 2005. Returning defensive all-star Travis Petersen will likely share some carries with junior standouts Levi Jones and Joe Jones. Newcomers Angus Hayman and Simon Nessman look to make an impact on offense as well. The starting QB position will be an interesting battle between Thyssen DeGoede and Curtis Blackburn. Thyssen has a rocket for an arm, while Curtis brings over 10 years of football experience with him. Up front, the Towhees will have their work cut out for them after having graduated the entire starting offensive line. The coaching staff will have to do an outstanding job with a mobile, but inexperienced group of linemen. While the Towhees traditionally run a balanced offensive attack, look for them to "air it out" in '05.
Defensive Outlook: The Towhees are shifting from their usual 4-3 defense to a more stable 5-3 look in '05. While depth at defensive line may be an issue later in the season, the Towhees will look to returning DE's Keelan Gamble and Matt Enns to be leaders on the defense. The Towhees will lack experience at LB, but have depth at that position. Look for newcomers Ron Recinos and Matt Hutchinson to have solid seasons at LB. In the secondary, the Towhees will make use of their two-way players. Look for safety Curtis Blackburn and Corner Eli Hilberry to make an impact in run support and turnovers. The Towhees Defense pride themselves on being physical, and this year's crew is no exception. Man for man, they love to hit, but they will have to watch their aggressive style against well-executed offenses.
2005 Projection: The 2005 season will be a series of unknowns for the Towhees. While they are extremely athletic, they are a fairly inexperienced squad, and will likely take some time to be able to fire on all cylinders. The coaching staff will have its work cut out for them in guiding the team in its 3rd year. The Towhees should improve steadily week to week as new players learn the ins and outs of playing football at the high school level. While most predict that the Towhees will be a non-factor this year, look for them to slide into the playoffs under the radar with a late season run.
North Surrey
Nick-name: Spartans
Colors: Black, Grey and Red
Head Coach: Craig Miller
Offense: Ace
Defense: Bear 46
Offensive Outlook: The team is very young at the skill positions with a gr. 10 at qb and grade 10's at Ace and wideouts. The offensive line looks to be very strong with size and experience a plus. Look for the Spartans to throw the ball consistently.
Defensive Outlook:Athletic but very inexperienced. Speed on the edges is a plus but ability to tackle will be suspect due to inexperience. Expect a slow start from the defense but as the season wears on they will be a very strong unit.
2005 Projection: The Spartan coaches feel that if the young members of the team develop quickly then there will be a good chance for the team to push for a playoff spot. There is depth and talent on a large roster. There is a premium on bringing all the parts together this year in terms of time and if the staff can tie it all together in September this squad could surprise.
Mark Isfield
Nick-name: Ice
Colors: Silver, Blue and White
Head Coach: Dan Eigler
Offense: Power-I
Defense: 5-2
Offensive Outlook: After a difficult 1st year offensively, the Ice look to improve drastically in year 2. With the return of most offensive starters from last year, the offensive outlook is positive. The Ice will stay focussed on their power run game in 2005 and while they may tend to be somewhat predictable, their size and execution should generate some success. The Ice will look to returning RB Simon Vlaar to pick up where he left off last year, and for rookie Daniel Hurst-Voeltz to make an impact. The maturing of QB of Nick McElwain will also help out in '05. A strong offensive line will be anchored by centre Colton Graham and will push people around this year.
Defensive Outlook: The defense also looks to be much improved in '05 with DE's Travis Johnstone (6'2" 275) and Mitch Mackenzie (6'1" 220) causing havoc in opposing backfields. Opposing teams will have difficulty running right at the Ice defense this season as they will run an attacking style of play that will stuff many offenses play after play. The only kink in the armour may be their mobility; while the Ice defense will be intimidating in terms of their size but their lack of speed may make them susceptible to misdirection plays or long passes.
2005 Projection: The Ice look to be a much improved team from their 1st season in high school football. They have 15-20 returning players from last year and a spring roster of over 42 players. They will certainly make up for the lack of depth they had last year. Reports say that the team has been intensely focussed during spring workouts, and are hungry to get the season started. Look for the Ice to contend for a playoff spot this year.
AA North Charlotte Conference
Ranking the North Charlotte Conference
1. Windsor
2. Ballenas
3. Moscrop
4. Gulf Islands
5. Sentinel
6. Howe Sound
**Teams listed in projected order of finish.
Windsor
Nick-Name: Dukes
Colors: Green,Yellow and White
Head Coach: Jim Schuman
Offense: Pro-I/Ace, Multiple, Offset strong I and Big House formations
Defense: 5-2, Multiple Fronts
Offensive Outlook: The Duke Offense looks to follow on the success of Gabe Ephards 2004 season behind Craig Hayman and Robert Williams on the O line. Both of these players were Conference All-stars last year at their OT and OG positions. Craig Hayman was also named as a provincial all-star as a OT. Ephard was a big surprise last year but won’t sneak up on anyone particularly after finishing first in the province in the 100m sprint during this year’s track and field championships.
Defensive Outlook: This is a strong, aggressive and smart defense led by Chris Norris-Jones DE who last year led the league in sacks and was recently awarded SFU Western all-star camp D-line MVP. There are not many question marks at any particular position other than how the JV’s moving up will handle there new roles within the scheme. The Duke D has earned a reputation for superb game planning and rapid adjustment to opposing offenses on game day. An early tilt against Sands will say a lot about this unit’s tenacity.
2005 Projection Half of offensive line returns with arguably one of the premier running backs in AA or AAA behind them of this year. This will give the passing game room to develop early on. The Duke Defense will be polished and prepared for all comers right out of the gates. Coach Schuman has taken his place amongst the greats and stepped out of the shadow of Duke legend Jay Prepchuk. Schuman prepares his team very thoroughly and this squad is looking to repeat in a tough division. The Dukes will also be the number one pick to win the Subway Bowl until someone proves otherwise on the field of play. Look for the Windsor-Ballenas game as a litmus test for things to come in 05.
Ballenas
Nick-name: Whalers
Colors: Royal Blue and White
Head Coach: Sean Hines
Offense: Pro-I/Ace
Defense: 3-4
Offensive Outlook: For the period 2001-2004 Ballenas running backs have run behind five street sweepers er-m Cape Buffalo/Abrams Tanks. This unbelievable run of size and strength gets toned down a bit with the offensive line again being recognizable as merely large humans. Iron men Jake Farley 6’1” 215 at center and Richard Reed (no relation to the shoe bomber) 6’1 235 lead the way for the Whalers. The offensive line is young but very experienced in the Whaler system with two years across the board at JV. Look for this unit to be very technically sound and yes, physical. Perhaps the best fullback-tailback tandem in AA resides in the backfield with fullback Chad Cowan 5’11” 215 laying down the smack for tailback Justin Andrushko 5’11” 180. Many in BC consider Andrushko to be the top ball carrier in BC and at least a top 5 player at that position. At quarterback there is a tough competition for the number one slot between cannon armed grade 12 Brad Burns and mobile 11th grade Alex Graham. Catching the ball tight end Jordan Ptitichie and Trevor Bertoia can stretch the field and importantly block for Andrushko downfield. Overall the strength of the Whaler offense this year is their backfield. Look for big games from this unit on the ground if they can throw the ball to keep defenses honest.
Defensive Outlook: Always a strength for the Whalers this unit is ready to carry the torch in a big way as it returns eight starters from a stingy and nasty physical unit in 2004. Defensive strengths are team speed and front 7. This unit will be very tough in the box. Defensive Coordinator Wayne Stremel has is a stickler for coverage integrity and there will be no easy buckets versus the Whalers through the air. Up front Farley and Reed do defensive time at the tackle and nose positions respectively with inside linebackers Chad Cowan and Shane Thompson highlighting a group that is eight deep and clawing for starting time. Projected to start at the outside linebacker position are tough guys Svett Pargov and Kyle Reynolds. At defensive back there is a big mix of talented grade 11 and 12’s with the possibility of starting an entire unit of returning players from 04.
2005 Projection: This is a very experienced and veteran squad with the JV’s moving up having the benefit of systemic continuity and the tutelage of one of BC’s finest JV coaching staffs the past two years. Coach Hines figures that if the staff can put the glue together and get the team playing as a unit that they will be a very good team. A successful spring has hopes high for the Whalers. The exhibition schedule opens with a Labour Day tilt versus a 3A Southern California squad and number 2 ranked John Barsby in the hotly contested Border Battle. These two games will have the Whalers primed for their ensuing collision versus divisional arch-rival Windsor. Editor’s pick: Whalers upset the Dukes on the road and coast in to Mercer Stadium the number 1 seed in their bracket.
Moscrop
Nick-Name: Panthers
Colors: Black, Carolina Blue, White
Head Coach: Bill Biles and Kurt Hennigar
Offense: Pro-I/Ace
Defense: 40
Offensive Outlook: an outstanding QB with quick feet led the Panthers in spring ball at the Island jamboree. This unit is solid at the skill positions returning all “skill players” from the 04 squad. Grade 11 SB/LB Jeff Biles is a physical stud. Stronger across the line than in previous years, depth is still an issue.
Defensive Outlook: Small but fast with a very good group of defensive backs. The question mark is across the line, but former BC Lion player and coach Tyrone Crews will have the Panthers tuned up to play tough on the line. Look for an ever improving defensive unit as the season progresses.
2005 Projection: This young squad operating under a new coaching staff had a strong showing at the Island Spring Jamboree playing in the championship game. As well, they beat Sands in other spring play. This should be a stronger team than it was in the 2004 season and hopes are running high in Burnaby..
Gulf Islands
Nick-Name: Scorpions
Colors: Black and Gold
Head Coach: Dave Mitchell, Assistant Head Coach, John Foley
Offense: Wing-T
Defense: Double Eagle
Offensive Outlook: The Scorpions love to run the ball and they have the personel up front and in their backfield positions to TCB come game time. Grade eleven running back Taylor Stibbards had the number two rushing total in the province last year and he will be a threat at the varsity level as well. Quarterback John Foley Jr. is a leader on the field and will direct the Scorpion attack this fall. Most of the players have been in the system for 2-3 years and this unit can rack up the yardage against unsuspecting opponents.
Defensive Outlook: Speed over size is the motto of this group. Very sound technical ability in the front 8 and good team tackling will make for a competitive unit this year. There are athletes in the defensive backfield and the big unknown is their relative inexperience versus the more sophisticated passing offenses at the Varsity level.
2005 Projection: This is a far tougher squad than its coaching staff gives it credit for. A third or fourth place finish in this division is not out of the realm of possibility for the Scorpions. There will be several games this year where unsuspecting opponents get caught up in a buzz saw and find out too late that they are in a game, just ask the 2003 JV Whalers! The hardworking coaching-staff is reflected by the kids on the field and this team is a pre-season dark-horse for sure.
Sentinel
Nick-Name: Spartans
Colors: Navy and Grey
Head Coach: Chris Port
Offense: Pro-I
Defense: 4-4 and 5-3
Offensive Outlook: As of spring this unit was young and small in numbers. Sentinel teams have a history of racheting up their numbers and performance in September so readers should not look too much into spring-ball. The Spartans will be big and strong up front with a physical presence on offense. Play action pass and multiple formations will be their trademark off of a power running game.
Defensive Outlook: The Defense will be led by the solid grade 11 D-Lineman, Marcus Tan. His aggressive play, strength, speed for a big man and football smarts will lead the Spartan D. The key for this unit will be how quickly the linebacker and defensive back corps gel behind Tan’s defensive line.
2005 Projection: This team has had a good two year run for the marbles in 03 and 04. Having graduated some of the best all round players in the province it is now time to see who can step up and fill key shoes. Look for a drop off in the win column with an outside shot at a quarter-final playoff game. The coaching staff feels that this team is “Young but tough!”
Howe Sound
Nick-Name: Sounders
Colors: Royal Blue, Yellow and White
Head Coach: Rex Reece
Offense: Pro-I, Pro-Split
Defense: 4-4
Offensive Outlook: The Sounders are entering year five of their program and were able to hang some points on good defenses last year. This is a veteran group of players led by running back Tak Lee and fullback Julian Siemans. Should the offensive line develop early it will pick up where it left in 04 at the wild-card game.
Defensive Outlook: Again, a mix of veterans in the line-up means that this unit will reach its potential just as soon as the newcomers get up to speed. A solid early start for this unit is important while the offense gets in position to gel. The Sounder defense can play it physical and the big question mark will be how well they handle finesse plays and the air assault of their opponents.
2005 Projection Returning half of the 2004 team with playoff experience under their belts, the Sounders are looking for more. This team will need to take its game to the next level to make the playoffs however, as AA is looking to be stronger than it has been in years.
AA South Fraser Conference
Ranking the South Fraser Conference
1. John Barsby
2. Sands
3. Hugh Boyd
4. Nanaimo District
5. Seaquam
6. Aldergrove
**Teams listed in projected order of finish.
John Barsby
Nick-Name: Bulldogs
Colors: Scarlet, Grey and Black
Head Coach: Rob Stevenson
Offense: Double Wing
Defense: 4-3
Offensive Outlook: Depth and speed! The 05 Dawgs are blessed with depth two and three deep at every “skill” position on offense. The backfield is faster than any time in program history with electronic times posted by 6’ 192 lb Tyler Bates of 4.52, WB Cuong Thai 5’7” 150- 4.7 and 6’160 lb QB Alex Belloch of 4.67. There are similar type athletes in the mix as well and the starting crew from spring will be hard pressed to maintain their status. The QB position is strong with two cannon-armed eleventh graders pushing Belloch for poll position as the pivot.. Up front the Dawgs are hard-working tenth and eleventh graders across the board with the exception of veteran right tackle Dillon Nelson 6’1” 220. This group is not huge in terms of size but is certainly big in terms of heart and work ethic. Playing together very well as a unit they have a huge up-side this year and next. The tight-end position for the Dawgs is a bit undersized but will excel in this year’s wide-open (yes wide open) version of the Barsby Double Wing and Shoot. Fullback for the Dawgs will be another hi-depth competition laden position. On balance there are not a whole lot of holes in the offensive unit other than the usual small school challenge of playing every game noticeably undersized in virtually every position. Hence the weight room and Performance Program at the school.
Defensive Outlook: Defensive coordinator and former CFL great Lyall Woznesensky has always been an impact man and his presence on the defensive side of the ball for the Dawgs is no exception. Up front the Defensive Dawgs will have few peers in terms of technique and tenacity while being cut loose in a very aggressive 4-3 scheme. Look for young defensive end Nick Woznesensky to pick-up where Pa left off up front and improve upon his team leading tackle statistics as a sophomore on last year’s varsity squad. The DT position is rich in depth with clear starters yet to emerge. At linebacker the Dawgs lack depth but will put a starting buzz saw on the field each week. OLB Brock Tanti can be a game changer when he is dialled in and much is expected of him rolling into the season. ILB’s Kent Jones and Paul Dorion fly to the ball and will have a big up-side as the year unfolds. The defensive backfield is filled with prototypes who with some development will play a bigger and bigger role mopping up after the front 7 and ball hawking errant throws. Safeties Ian Campbell and Ryan Veale are hit-men against the run while corners Al Belloch and Aaron Davies TCB out on the perimeter. Overall the Dawg D will be an exciting crew which when firing on all cylinders has the potential to be a game altering unit.
2005 Projection: Barsby has missed the playoffs only once since 1999 and that by a touchdown. Consecutive championship appearances and one victory in the 99-2000 era have been followed by less lofty post-season heights. In 2004 the program sought renewed direction and emphasis producing a semi-final appearance. This season’s performance will be telling in terms of the effectiveness of the direction taken. Being a very small school (approx. 125 boys G-11 and 12), the effectiveness of the total program approach; performance program, JV squad, cannot be understated in terms of its importance. Undersized but very athletic, special teams, team chemistry and personal attention to detail will be key elements to a playoff run to the dance. With arguably one of the two toughest AA exhibition schedules in the province (conference rival Sands having the other), Barsby opens up with a grudge match against the surging Lord Tweedsmuir Panthers who are looking for 04 wild-card redemption, the biggest AA rivalry in BC in the Border Battle vs Ballenas, a home date against perennial AAA power WJ Mouat and a road trip to play the AAA Pine Tree colossus in Coquitlam. September is going to test the Dawgs where it counts most…mentally. Therein lies the key to what kind of year this team will have. Can Barsby’s varsity squad handle pressure and adversity. Nobody knows just yet. Editor’s pick…Dawgs catch fire in October/November with help from the tenth grade.
Sands
Nick-Name: Scorpions
Colors: Blue and white
Head Coach: Ron Ueyama
Offense: Pro-I/Pro-Split
Defense: 4-3
Offensive Outlook: This unit begins with a very good tailback and a tall, athletic quarterback. Both players will benefit from the decent size and athleticism that prevails across the line. The receiving corps is on the small side but can make plays.
Defensive Outlook: Sands looks to go with a traditional 40 defense with three backers stacked and reports are that they are a very physical front 7. The defensive ends are very good and the linebackers are strong versus inside run with decent speed to the outside. The corners are reportedly undersized but fast.
2005 Projection: Sands is the real deal. Sands has great players coming in from the community programs that will be ready to go from the opening whistle. Coach U has won a championship at all levels and will have his kids up to speed on the highschool game. They are big, tough and experienced with a veteran coaching staff and a love of the game. They are very well coached (about 12 coaches on staff). In spring ball this team beat Burnaby Central and lost a tight one to Moscrop. There is a buzz around the province that says unequivocally that Sands will be a forceful presence in AA this season.
Hugh Boyd
Nick-Name: Trojans
Colors: Yellow, Black and White
Head Coach: Bruce Haddow
Offense: Pro-I/Ace
Defense: 5-3
Offensive Outlook: Offensive Outlook-Will be more of a multiple formation team to take advantage of the speed on this year’s roster. Quarterback- Joe Bouchard has a good arm and lots of mobility. At the running back position the Trojans have three backs that could start. Anthony Murray, Edwin Lo, and Kingston Fan will battle for playing time. Good news for the coaches is that they all love the weight room and are very competitive. The receiving corps is led by Tim Norohna and Mark Hanczak who the staff believe are ready to have big years. At the offensive the Trojans are a young group who will be led by returning starters Curtis Irwin and Jed Spearing.
Defensive Outlook: Linebackers- Athletic group led by third year starter Scott Spencer and second year starter Bryce Osborne. DB'S- The coaching staff feels that the team is six deep at this position. Murray, Norohna, Bouchard, Fan,Tony Dema and Colin cookhouse can all play. Line- Noseguard Sam Chen will anchor the line. Grade 11 Andrew McMillan had a good spring as a defensive end.
2005 Projection The days of 'Huge' Boyd are over or at the very least on hiatus. Believe it or not the Trojans may not have one starting lineman that is over 200 pounds! In a strange way we are very excited about this. The brothers Haddow know it will be difficult to replace the quality lineman they have had in the past, but they also believe that although young, the line will be very athletic an aggressive. This will be the fastest, most athletic team they have had at Hugh Boyd. Speed Boyd!!??? Hold onto your hats folks.
Nanaimo District
Nick-Name: Islanders
Colors: Forest Green, White and Black
Head Coach: Nate Stevenson
Offense: Pro Split
Defense: Double Eagle
Offensive Outlook: With a youthful team, the Islanders will look to a simple power game that they have relied on for the past several seasons. A large O-line with quick backs will move the ball and control the clock. Rookie RB Martin Dinh will look for daylight behind the likes of Guards Wyatt and Cody Jensen. Slotback Tyson Humpherville will always be a threat to break a play into positive yardage.
Defensive Outlook: Pressure defense will be the in vogue at NDSS this season with the unit seeking to pressure offenses into making mistakes while avoiding the big play. LBs Jordan White and Matt Rinas will be leading the charge of this unit.
2005 Projection: While posting a disappointing record last season (2-8), the Islanders have made strides both on and off the field. Very close games against playoff bound teams left NDSS feeling potent and creating a can do attitude. Much work and never quit play is needed. If these two factors can be accomplished, look for the Islanders to land in post season.
Seaquam
Nick-Name: Seahawks
Colors: Royal Blue, Black, and Gold
Head Coach: Paul Taylor
Offense: Pro-Split
Defense: 5-3
Offensive Outlook: The team will be led by QB Alex Babalos. Babalos was the QB of the North Delta Steelers (community) last season. The run game will feature Matt Maniezzo in the backfield who led the community Steelers in rushing last season. The receiving corps will feature speedy and talented receivers Tanner Gill and Tom McDougall both new to the sport.
Defensive Outlook: Like the offense, the defense will be led by Babalos. He was voted MVP of the Bantam Star Bowl as he had 2 interceptions and a fumble recovery. The team is also hoping for big plays from its corps of LBs.
2005 Projection: Making the playoffs first year would be a huge step for the program, but it won't be easy. The team is green all-around with most players having never played football before. Add that to the fact that perennial power John Barsby, the solid new Sands program, and the always tough Hugh Boyd Trojans are in their division and this group will have a tough row to hoe come September and October.. However, the team's experienced coaching staff is hoping to get the Hawks back to the level which saw them make the AA playoffs 6 out of 8 seasons including 4 semi-final appearances during the 1990’s.
Aldergrove
Nick-Name: Totems
Colors: Royal Blue, Sky Blue and White
Head Coach: Francois Joly and Fred Daignault
Offense: Pro I
Defense: 4-4
Offensive Outlook: Not much is known about this group other than the fact that they have an athlete at quarterback and an eager group of players moving up from JV play in 2004. The Totem offense will look to throw the ball off of the run game once they establish it and get stronger each game as the season unfolds.
Defensive Outlook: This unit will have to play big early in order to give the offense time to develop in September. Run stuffing play will be the order of the day and the coaching staff will have its work cut out for it in a very competitive 2005 AA league.
2005 Projection: The coaching staff feels they begin their new varsity squad with a realistic and positive outlook on both offence and defence for this season. Last year was a very interesting experience at the JV level and they are looking forward to developing a very competitive program in 2005. Reports out of Aldergrove are that they had a good spring. This is a program that gets better every year
AA Okanagan Conference
Ranking The Okanagan Conference
1. Clarence Fulton
2. Westsyde
3. Valleyview
4. Kalamalka
5. Okanagen Mission
6. Norkam
7. Quesnel Correlieu
**Teams listed in projected order of finish.
Clarence Fulton
Nick-Name: Maroons
Colors: Maroon and White
Head Coach: Mike Scheller
Offense: Slot-I
Defense: 50
Offensive Outlook: Led by grade 12 quarterback Jesse Brown this unit looks to resume its outstanding production from 2004. Running Backs’s Levi Brodland and James Rodgers are speedsters who will be galloping to glory in the now famous Maroon toss sweep. Wide Receiver Dan Novakowski will lead the way for a young group of catch men who will be called upon often and early to pave the way for Broadland and Rogers at the perimeter. The offensive line will be a mix of veteran and first year players with pretty good size.
Defensive Outlook: This season sees the return of top tackler and iron man James Rogers at linebacker. Rogers will lead a tough defensive unit that can run and hit! The Maroons play their 50 scheme very well and Scheller will have the right bodies in the right positions to get the job done. This unit will only get tougher as the season unfolds.
2005 Projection Fulton is a big fish in a small pond in interior AA football. They have won the division two years in a row now. Two years ago, they won it with 4 teams in it that jumped to AAA the next year. If there is such a thing as an Interior dynasty then these guys are it. Coach Scheller does a terrific job every year and has had the Maroons in the semi-final game four times since 1999.
Westsyde
Nick-Name: Blue Wave
Colors: Navy and White
Head Coach: Kent Lapa
Offense: Pro-I
Defense: 4-4 and 5-3
Offensive Outlook: they were solid at both senior and junior levels last year, and will likely run a balanced attack offensively, as they threw a fair bit in junior last year
Defensive Outlook: They are large and aggressive as always, and will likely be well coached as Kent Lapa takes over the program
2005 Projection: Like a lurking Blue Wave Tsunami Westsyde has all the ingredients of a team coming in under the radar and really shaking things up in the interior conference. The coaching staff is really upbeat with the spring turnout of 35 players and the fact that for the first time in recent memory all of the best athletes in the school have come out for football. This factor alone smacks of high morale and enthusiasm within the school for the program. With no spring exhibition game however it is pretty much a lock that a talented but somewhat inexperienced roster is going to have to place a premium on getting their act in synch. The Blue Wave will have to play serious defense out of the gates to give their offense time to gel. Special teams will be at a premium as well. The key word for this squad is “Potential” and readers should look for the boys in blue to come on strong in October. Editor’s pick: Westsyde and Fulton duke it out for top seed from the Interior.
Valleyview
Nick-Name: Vikings
Colors: Black, White and Red
Head Coach: Bob Dieno
Offense: Pro-I/Pro-Split
Defense: 5-2 and 5-3
Offensive Outlook: Electrifying Vinny Watson at tailback and the very capable Adam Sharp at QB return this year and make Valleyview a definite threat in any game they play. New receivers will have to carve a name for themselves at the perimeter. The Vikings are a program on the rise and the big question mark is whether or not they will have an offensive line to compliment their talented backfield.
Defensive Outlook: Led by returning seniors: Alex Adams (LB), Brad MacFarlane (DE), Brad Taylor (DB) and Rex Haines (DB) this squad has a nucleus to build around. Solid defense will be key for the Vikings early in order to give the offense time to find itself.
2005 Projection: Valleyview really has benefited over the last couple of years from 2 brothers that have come through the program and made Valleyview a threat in every game they have played. First it was Dease Watson, and then following him, is his brother Vinny Watson. Many in the interior feel that the Valleyview /OKM game should be a game that determines 2nd place in the interior.
Kalmalka
Nick-Name: Lakers Colors: Navy and Gold
Head Coach: Lawrei Skolrud
Offense: Pro-I/Pro-Split
Defense: 52/53/44
Offensive Outlook: This team finished in the provincial quarterfinals for Junior last year and is returning to the senior ranks in 2005. Assuming Interior junior MVP Rob Short comes back (he is attending junior hockey try outs) the Lakers will boast a formidable ground attack, led by powerful tailback Short 5’11 195 and Blocking Back David Burroughs. Boston Benesh has shown strong leadership and is developing at QB. Recievers abound, led by Michael Goplen. Up front, there is some concern about size and depth. Conrad Hillis and Florian Chapman are solid on the right side, but the other 3 spots are unsettled at present.
Defensive Outlook: The team’s strength will be in the secondary, where Goplen, Tyler Flood and Tatlor Ronayne all return. Each one of these guys is a solid cover man who tackles well. Short is a key at LB, as is Burroughs and Joe Barisheff. The defensive line is led by Hillis, Drew Baker, and Impressive newcomer at nose, Mark Gadmer
2005 Projection: If Short is there, this is a playoff team. The staff will work to spread the ball to athletic receivers as well as develop a solid group up front. This squad is young, but experienced great success last year, beating provincial powers at the JV level such as South Kamloops and PineTree.
Okanagen Mission
Nick-Name: Huskies
Colors: Navy & Gold
Head Coach: Ray Yarbrough
Offense: Fly
Defense: 5-3
Offensive Outlook: The passing game was a disappointment last season, but with the return of Wipp at the pivot position the team has been able to make another personnel move and turn last seasons QB Stephen Johnson into a Receiver. The keys to the offense will be the fly back position and whether the team can improve what was a dismal passing game last season. If they can do that, this team should have a very explosive and strong offense. If they can't and have to rely solely on the running game again, it could be a long season for the team.
Defensive Outlook: The keys defensively for the team will be the defensive line play. Coaches feel that if the line ties up the offensive line effectively and allows the team’s solid linebacker corps the ability to pursue, they should be very effective and very strong. If the defensive line struggles, so will the rest of the defense.
2005 Projection: This team looks to be a huge improvement over last seasons inaugural season. The biggest weakness for the team will be the lack of size on both lines, however with more players overall on the team the strain of having to play both ways will be lifted. The team beat the teams they should beat last season, but there was a large gap between them and the teams that they didn't beat. This season coaches expect them to continue to beat the teams at the lower level, and move up and be more competitive with the better teams in the interior. The coaching staff feels that an accurate projection would be for this team to place anywhere between 1st - 4th in the interior.
Norkam
Nick-Name: Saints
Colors: Maroon and Grey
Head Coach: Mike Winstanley
Offense: Multiple
Defense: 5-3
Offensive Outlook: This unit should be improved over 2004 with the increased development and maturity of quarterback Joe Morrone, tackle John Walden, and running back Justin Carpenter - all grade 10 starters in 2004.
Defensive Outlook: The defensive Saints should be greatly improved over 2004 as Linemen Brian Ritchie, Stu Ford and AJ Slade go into their final year. Coaches are expecting strong leadership from LB Justin Carpenter.
2005 Projection: Norkam’s season is going to be determined early. Confidence will be the key factor and the coaching staff feels that they will have to show our improvement in the first couple of weeks in order to have any momentum. Where they finish will be determined by their first 3 games. A big concern as far as the start goes is the low numbers that resulted in the cancellation of spring training and the fact that experience is going to be minimal again. Regardless, Coach Winstanley believes that our play on the field will be greatly improved over 2004
Quesnel/Correlieu
Nick-name: Cougars
Colors: Powder Blue and Black
Head Coach: Bill Clapton
Offense: Multiple
Defense: Multiple
Offensive Outlook: Making the adjustment from community ball to HS in a limited exhibition schedule last year was problematic for this squad. With a year under their belts and hard work an improved performance is a definite possibility.
Defensive Outlook: Stopping the run is where all high school defenses need to start. This team has nothing to do except improve upon last year’s performance.
2005 Projection This team struggled last year. They played an exhibition schedule to get ready for the 2005 season. They run a lot of trick and gadget plays, with limited success, but did not seem to really have any base offense or defense
Note: This document has been compiled by Coach Dave Heskin and Coach Rob Stevenson. We would like to thank all the coaches who have contributed invaluable information to our research base. The coaching fraternity in BC High School Football is alive and well! Our intention is to generate discussion, get a base line of information out to everyone and add to the fun as we enter the 2005 season. Good luck to everyone in the league and we hope you have the very best of experiences on the ol gridiron this year! BC AA Varsity is the Smoke Baby and this will be the most competitive AA league in years! Lets get it on!!!
AA Pre-Season Top 5
1. Windsor
2. John Barsby
3. Mt. Douglas
4. Ballenas
5. Lord Tweedsmuir
Honourable Mention: Frank Hurt, Hugh Boyd, Sands, Clarence Fulton, Westsyde
AA Georgia Strait Conference
Ranking the Georgia Straight Conference
1. Mt. Douglas
2. Lord Tweedsmuir
3. Frank Hurt
4. Mission
5. G.P. Vanier
6. North Surrey
7. Mark Isfield
**Teams listed in projected order of finish.
Mt. Douglas
Nick-name: Rams
Colors: Black Yellow, Purple and White
Head Coach: Mark Townsend/Al Cochraine
Offense: Pro-I
Defense: 3-4
Offensive Outlook: The Ram Offense is all about balance. A very strong running game led by standout Paul Barrazol is complimented by a strong armed quarterback with speed and sure handed receiver Brendan Nery at the receiver position. Up front linemen Sam Coad and Ryan Aune lead a very physical and experienced group. This unit performed well in spring picking up where it left off at the JV level in 04. The Rams look to play it physical on the ground and take their shots from the air as defenses scramble to plug the gaps.
Defensive Outlook: Speed and a big rush at the OLB position characterize this squad. The 3-4 scheme is all the more effective with a dominant player at nose tackle and manimal John Hitchen at 6’1” 285 is a handful up and down the LOS. Spring ball had the Rams scraping well from the ILB position led by hitman Dan Curry. Good run support from the secondary is characterized by this experienced and speedy group. This is a bend but don’t break squad that likes to play it physical. Defensive speed is overall very good.
2005 Projection: The 2005 Ram JV’s were arguably a top 4 team on the field giving the eventual BC championship STM team all it could handle in the quarter-final game. Two years of JV play now has the Ram Varsity prepared for its first serious run at the playoffs in nine years. This team has it all, speed, experience, size, depth and superb coaching. Look for the Rams to win their division, storm into the semi-finals and be a strong contender for the big game in the dome.
Lord Tweedsmuir
Nick-name: Panthers
Colors: Green, Black and White
Head Coach: Kurt Thornton
Offense: Pro I, Power I, Ace, Spread aka. Multiple
Defense: 5-2, 6-2
Offensive Outlook: Tweedsmuir coach Kurt Thornton feels that the Panthers are very strong at the “skill positions” with one of the best backfields in the province and good size on the line. The Panthers are in their sophomore season as a program and are coming off a superb opening year in 04. Speed and experience are the strengths of this unit and it is capable of exploding with the big play on any given down.
Defensive Outlook: The linebacker corps and defensive backs are the strength of this unit led by 2004 last year’s provincial all-star Greg Aniuk . Up front the Panthers will not be overly big but they are fast and athletic. This defense will make team’s with slow developing offensive schemes pay and pay hard.
2005 Projection: Tweedsmuir secured a number two seed in the playoffs with a grade 11 heavy roster last year. This squad returns 13 players including top prospects Jordan Willets and Bryce Warbinek. The addition of a solid group of new players to the varsity should result in a strong playoff showing in 05. Hopes are high within the program as are expectations. The year begins with a visit to Nanaimo to play last year’s playoff nemesis John Barsby in the Labour Day Kick-Off Classic. The game will be a big measure of things to come for the Panthers. Editor’s Pick: Panthers win games they should and a couple where they are underdogs. Mt. Douglas is going to be tough slogging though and a number two divisional finish is likely.
Frank Hurt
Nick-name: Hornets
Colors: Black and Yellow
Co Head Coaches: Mike Biggin and Dave Heskin
Offense: Multiple
Defense: 4-3
Offensive Outlook: A run oriented offense looking to execute well and control the clock will be the hallmark of this attack. There is a lot of size up front this year and the JV’s graduated a lot of talent to the varsity level for 05. A strong arm quarterback is a must for this unit to take its game to the next level via the play action pass and rumour has it that there is a sophomore with all the right tools for getting the job done.
Defensive Outlook: An aggressive defense full of good athletes looking to swarm and create turnovers is what opponents can expect from the defensive bees. Frank Hurt does not get out hit often and the defense will set the tone for the team early in the season.
2005 Projection Although the Hornets will be a young team the coaching staff feels that enthusiasm, athleticism and a solid mental focus will level the playing field with more experienced varsity programs. Editor’s pick: The Hornets sting a higher seed in the wildcard en route to a semi-final run.
Mission
Nick-name: Roadrunners
Colors: Green, Black and White
Head Coach: Kevin Watrin
Offense: Pro-I /Ace
Defense: 4-3, 5-2, 5-3
Offensive Outlook: The focus of the offense will be on senior running back and two year starter Eddy McAllister along with senior tight end Nick Meerstra. Offensive support will be provided by a more experienced OL will help in 2005, but a relatively inexperienced QB and receiving crew are the linger question mark on the Roadrunners offensive attack
Defensive Outlook: A more aggressive attitude on defense will prove to be the reason the defense will be the most improved component of the Roadrunners in 2005. Third year players abound on this unit and the play of the defensive unit will reflect this maturity.
2005 Projection: The Roadrunners coaching staff feels like they have good chance to take the fourth playoff spot in what they see as a very competitive division. Coach Watrin is an elite coach and as the program enters its third year there are budding signs of future greatness to be found. The question is mainly just how soon it all comes together for the Roadrunners.
G.P Vanier
Nick-name: Towhees
Colors: Forest, Silver and Black
Head Coach: Sean Toal
Offense: Multiple
Defense: 5-3
Offensive Outlook: The Towhees look to re-load in 2005 after graduating a number of key starters in 2004. The receiving core looks to be as strong as ever, led by Eli Hilberry (6'1" 180 lbs) who hauled in 24 passes for 561 yards and 7 touchdowns last year. Also returning in the receiving core are Matt Fuller and Aurin Savoie who have great speed to stretch opposing defenses. While losing conference all-star RB Alain Lepine will tough, the Towhees have a number of players willing to step-up in 2005. Returning defensive all-star Travis Petersen will likely share some carries with junior standouts Levi Jones and Joe Jones. Newcomers Angus Hayman and Simon Nessman look to make an impact on offense as well. The starting QB position will be an interesting battle between Thyssen DeGoede and Curtis Blackburn. Thyssen has a rocket for an arm, while Curtis brings over 10 years of football experience with him. Up front, the Towhees will have their work cut out for them after having graduated the entire starting offensive line. The coaching staff will have to do an outstanding job with a mobile, but inexperienced group of linemen. While the Towhees traditionally run a balanced offensive attack, look for them to "air it out" in '05.
Defensive Outlook: The Towhees are shifting from their usual 4-3 defense to a more stable 5-3 look in '05. While depth at defensive line may be an issue later in the season, the Towhees will look to returning DE's Keelan Gamble and Matt Enns to be leaders on the defense. The Towhees will lack experience at LB, but have depth at that position. Look for newcomers Ron Recinos and Matt Hutchinson to have solid seasons at LB. In the secondary, the Towhees will make use of their two-way players. Look for safety Curtis Blackburn and Corner Eli Hilberry to make an impact in run support and turnovers. The Towhees Defense pride themselves on being physical, and this year's crew is no exception. Man for man, they love to hit, but they will have to watch their aggressive style against well-executed offenses.
2005 Projection: The 2005 season will be a series of unknowns for the Towhees. While they are extremely athletic, they are a fairly inexperienced squad, and will likely take some time to be able to fire on all cylinders. The coaching staff will have its work cut out for them in guiding the team in its 3rd year. The Towhees should improve steadily week to week as new players learn the ins and outs of playing football at the high school level. While most predict that the Towhees will be a non-factor this year, look for them to slide into the playoffs under the radar with a late season run.
North Surrey
Nick-name: Spartans
Colors: Black, Grey and Red
Head Coach: Craig Miller
Offense: Ace
Defense: Bear 46
Offensive Outlook: The team is very young at the skill positions with a gr. 10 at qb and grade 10's at Ace and wideouts. The offensive line looks to be very strong with size and experience a plus. Look for the Spartans to throw the ball consistently.
Defensive Outlook:Athletic but very inexperienced. Speed on the edges is a plus but ability to tackle will be suspect due to inexperience. Expect a slow start from the defense but as the season wears on they will be a very strong unit.
2005 Projection: The Spartan coaches feel that if the young members of the team develop quickly then there will be a good chance for the team to push for a playoff spot. There is depth and talent on a large roster. There is a premium on bringing all the parts together this year in terms of time and if the staff can tie it all together in September this squad could surprise.
Mark Isfield
Nick-name: Ice
Colors: Silver, Blue and White
Head Coach: Dan Eigler
Offense: Power-I
Defense: 5-2
Offensive Outlook: After a difficult 1st year offensively, the Ice look to improve drastically in year 2. With the return of most offensive starters from last year, the offensive outlook is positive. The Ice will stay focussed on their power run game in 2005 and while they may tend to be somewhat predictable, their size and execution should generate some success. The Ice will look to returning RB Simon Vlaar to pick up where he left off last year, and for rookie Daniel Hurst-Voeltz to make an impact. The maturing of QB of Nick McElwain will also help out in '05. A strong offensive line will be anchored by centre Colton Graham and will push people around this year.
Defensive Outlook: The defense also looks to be much improved in '05 with DE's Travis Johnstone (6'2" 275) and Mitch Mackenzie (6'1" 220) causing havoc in opposing backfields. Opposing teams will have difficulty running right at the Ice defense this season as they will run an attacking style of play that will stuff many offenses play after play. The only kink in the armour may be their mobility; while the Ice defense will be intimidating in terms of their size but their lack of speed may make them susceptible to misdirection plays or long passes.
2005 Projection: The Ice look to be a much improved team from their 1st season in high school football. They have 15-20 returning players from last year and a spring roster of over 42 players. They will certainly make up for the lack of depth they had last year. Reports say that the team has been intensely focussed during spring workouts, and are hungry to get the season started. Look for the Ice to contend for a playoff spot this year.
AA North Charlotte Conference
Ranking the North Charlotte Conference
1. Windsor
2. Ballenas
3. Moscrop
4. Gulf Islands
5. Sentinel
6. Howe Sound
**Teams listed in projected order of finish.
Windsor
Nick-Name: Dukes
Colors: Green,Yellow and White
Head Coach: Jim Schuman
Offense: Pro-I/Ace, Multiple, Offset strong I and Big House formations
Defense: 5-2, Multiple Fronts
Offensive Outlook: The Duke Offense looks to follow on the success of Gabe Ephards 2004 season behind Craig Hayman and Robert Williams on the O line. Both of these players were Conference All-stars last year at their OT and OG positions. Craig Hayman was also named as a provincial all-star as a OT. Ephard was a big surprise last year but won’t sneak up on anyone particularly after finishing first in the province in the 100m sprint during this year’s track and field championships.
Defensive Outlook: This is a strong, aggressive and smart defense led by Chris Norris-Jones DE who last year led the league in sacks and was recently awarded SFU Western all-star camp D-line MVP. There are not many question marks at any particular position other than how the JV’s moving up will handle there new roles within the scheme. The Duke D has earned a reputation for superb game planning and rapid adjustment to opposing offenses on game day. An early tilt against Sands will say a lot about this unit’s tenacity.
2005 Projection Half of offensive line returns with arguably one of the premier running backs in AA or AAA behind them of this year. This will give the passing game room to develop early on. The Duke Defense will be polished and prepared for all comers right out of the gates. Coach Schuman has taken his place amongst the greats and stepped out of the shadow of Duke legend Jay Prepchuk. Schuman prepares his team very thoroughly and this squad is looking to repeat in a tough division. The Dukes will also be the number one pick to win the Subway Bowl until someone proves otherwise on the field of play. Look for the Windsor-Ballenas game as a litmus test for things to come in 05.
Ballenas
Nick-name: Whalers
Colors: Royal Blue and White
Head Coach: Sean Hines
Offense: Pro-I/Ace
Defense: 3-4
Offensive Outlook: For the period 2001-2004 Ballenas running backs have run behind five street sweepers er-m Cape Buffalo/Abrams Tanks. This unbelievable run of size and strength gets toned down a bit with the offensive line again being recognizable as merely large humans. Iron men Jake Farley 6’1” 215 at center and Richard Reed (no relation to the shoe bomber) 6’1 235 lead the way for the Whalers. The offensive line is young but very experienced in the Whaler system with two years across the board at JV. Look for this unit to be very technically sound and yes, physical. Perhaps the best fullback-tailback tandem in AA resides in the backfield with fullback Chad Cowan 5’11” 215 laying down the smack for tailback Justin Andrushko 5’11” 180. Many in BC consider Andrushko to be the top ball carrier in BC and at least a top 5 player at that position. At quarterback there is a tough competition for the number one slot between cannon armed grade 12 Brad Burns and mobile 11th grade Alex Graham. Catching the ball tight end Jordan Ptitichie and Trevor Bertoia can stretch the field and importantly block for Andrushko downfield. Overall the strength of the Whaler offense this year is their backfield. Look for big games from this unit on the ground if they can throw the ball to keep defenses honest.
Defensive Outlook: Always a strength for the Whalers this unit is ready to carry the torch in a big way as it returns eight starters from a stingy and nasty physical unit in 2004. Defensive strengths are team speed and front 7. This unit will be very tough in the box. Defensive Coordinator Wayne Stremel has is a stickler for coverage integrity and there will be no easy buckets versus the Whalers through the air. Up front Farley and Reed do defensive time at the tackle and nose positions respectively with inside linebackers Chad Cowan and Shane Thompson highlighting a group that is eight deep and clawing for starting time. Projected to start at the outside linebacker position are tough guys Svett Pargov and Kyle Reynolds. At defensive back there is a big mix of talented grade 11 and 12’s with the possibility of starting an entire unit of returning players from 04.
2005 Projection: This is a very experienced and veteran squad with the JV’s moving up having the benefit of systemic continuity and the tutelage of one of BC’s finest JV coaching staffs the past two years. Coach Hines figures that if the staff can put the glue together and get the team playing as a unit that they will be a very good team. A successful spring has hopes high for the Whalers. The exhibition schedule opens with a Labour Day tilt versus a 3A Southern California squad and number 2 ranked John Barsby in the hotly contested Border Battle. These two games will have the Whalers primed for their ensuing collision versus divisional arch-rival Windsor. Editor’s pick: Whalers upset the Dukes on the road and coast in to Mercer Stadium the number 1 seed in their bracket.
Moscrop
Nick-Name: Panthers
Colors: Black, Carolina Blue, White
Head Coach: Bill Biles and Kurt Hennigar
Offense: Pro-I/Ace
Defense: 40
Offensive Outlook: an outstanding QB with quick feet led the Panthers in spring ball at the Island jamboree. This unit is solid at the skill positions returning all “skill players” from the 04 squad. Grade 11 SB/LB Jeff Biles is a physical stud. Stronger across the line than in previous years, depth is still an issue.
Defensive Outlook: Small but fast with a very good group of defensive backs. The question mark is across the line, but former BC Lion player and coach Tyrone Crews will have the Panthers tuned up to play tough on the line. Look for an ever improving defensive unit as the season progresses.
2005 Projection: This young squad operating under a new coaching staff had a strong showing at the Island Spring Jamboree playing in the championship game. As well, they beat Sands in other spring play. This should be a stronger team than it was in the 2004 season and hopes are running high in Burnaby..
Gulf Islands
Nick-Name: Scorpions
Colors: Black and Gold
Head Coach: Dave Mitchell, Assistant Head Coach, John Foley
Offense: Wing-T
Defense: Double Eagle
Offensive Outlook: The Scorpions love to run the ball and they have the personel up front and in their backfield positions to TCB come game time. Grade eleven running back Taylor Stibbards had the number two rushing total in the province last year and he will be a threat at the varsity level as well. Quarterback John Foley Jr. is a leader on the field and will direct the Scorpion attack this fall. Most of the players have been in the system for 2-3 years and this unit can rack up the yardage against unsuspecting opponents.
Defensive Outlook: Speed over size is the motto of this group. Very sound technical ability in the front 8 and good team tackling will make for a competitive unit this year. There are athletes in the defensive backfield and the big unknown is their relative inexperience versus the more sophisticated passing offenses at the Varsity level.
2005 Projection: This is a far tougher squad than its coaching staff gives it credit for. A third or fourth place finish in this division is not out of the realm of possibility for the Scorpions. There will be several games this year where unsuspecting opponents get caught up in a buzz saw and find out too late that they are in a game, just ask the 2003 JV Whalers! The hardworking coaching-staff is reflected by the kids on the field and this team is a pre-season dark-horse for sure.
Sentinel
Nick-Name: Spartans
Colors: Navy and Grey
Head Coach: Chris Port
Offense: Pro-I
Defense: 4-4 and 5-3
Offensive Outlook: As of spring this unit was young and small in numbers. Sentinel teams have a history of racheting up their numbers and performance in September so readers should not look too much into spring-ball. The Spartans will be big and strong up front with a physical presence on offense. Play action pass and multiple formations will be their trademark off of a power running game.
Defensive Outlook: The Defense will be led by the solid grade 11 D-Lineman, Marcus Tan. His aggressive play, strength, speed for a big man and football smarts will lead the Spartan D. The key for this unit will be how quickly the linebacker and defensive back corps gel behind Tan’s defensive line.
2005 Projection: This team has had a good two year run for the marbles in 03 and 04. Having graduated some of the best all round players in the province it is now time to see who can step up and fill key shoes. Look for a drop off in the win column with an outside shot at a quarter-final playoff game. The coaching staff feels that this team is “Young but tough!”
Howe Sound
Nick-Name: Sounders
Colors: Royal Blue, Yellow and White
Head Coach: Rex Reece
Offense: Pro-I, Pro-Split
Defense: 4-4
Offensive Outlook: The Sounders are entering year five of their program and were able to hang some points on good defenses last year. This is a veteran group of players led by running back Tak Lee and fullback Julian Siemans. Should the offensive line develop early it will pick up where it left in 04 at the wild-card game.
Defensive Outlook: Again, a mix of veterans in the line-up means that this unit will reach its potential just as soon as the newcomers get up to speed. A solid early start for this unit is important while the offense gets in position to gel. The Sounder defense can play it physical and the big question mark will be how well they handle finesse plays and the air assault of their opponents.
2005 Projection Returning half of the 2004 team with playoff experience under their belts, the Sounders are looking for more. This team will need to take its game to the next level to make the playoffs however, as AA is looking to be stronger than it has been in years.
AA South Fraser Conference
Ranking the South Fraser Conference
1. John Barsby
2. Sands
3. Hugh Boyd
4. Nanaimo District
5. Seaquam
6. Aldergrove
**Teams listed in projected order of finish.
John Barsby
Nick-Name: Bulldogs
Colors: Scarlet, Grey and Black
Head Coach: Rob Stevenson
Offense: Double Wing
Defense: 4-3
Offensive Outlook: Depth and speed! The 05 Dawgs are blessed with depth two and three deep at every “skill” position on offense. The backfield is faster than any time in program history with electronic times posted by 6’ 192 lb Tyler Bates of 4.52, WB Cuong Thai 5’7” 150- 4.7 and 6’160 lb QB Alex Belloch of 4.67. There are similar type athletes in the mix as well and the starting crew from spring will be hard pressed to maintain their status. The QB position is strong with two cannon-armed eleventh graders pushing Belloch for poll position as the pivot.. Up front the Dawgs are hard-working tenth and eleventh graders across the board with the exception of veteran right tackle Dillon Nelson 6’1” 220. This group is not huge in terms of size but is certainly big in terms of heart and work ethic. Playing together very well as a unit they have a huge up-side this year and next. The tight-end position for the Dawgs is a bit undersized but will excel in this year’s wide-open (yes wide open) version of the Barsby Double Wing and Shoot. Fullback for the Dawgs will be another hi-depth competition laden position. On balance there are not a whole lot of holes in the offensive unit other than the usual small school challenge of playing every game noticeably undersized in virtually every position. Hence the weight room and Performance Program at the school.
Defensive Outlook: Defensive coordinator and former CFL great Lyall Woznesensky has always been an impact man and his presence on the defensive side of the ball for the Dawgs is no exception. Up front the Defensive Dawgs will have few peers in terms of technique and tenacity while being cut loose in a very aggressive 4-3 scheme. Look for young defensive end Nick Woznesensky to pick-up where Pa left off up front and improve upon his team leading tackle statistics as a sophomore on last year’s varsity squad. The DT position is rich in depth with clear starters yet to emerge. At linebacker the Dawgs lack depth but will put a starting buzz saw on the field each week. OLB Brock Tanti can be a game changer when he is dialled in and much is expected of him rolling into the season. ILB’s Kent Jones and Paul Dorion fly to the ball and will have a big up-side as the year unfolds. The defensive backfield is filled with prototypes who with some development will play a bigger and bigger role mopping up after the front 7 and ball hawking errant throws. Safeties Ian Campbell and Ryan Veale are hit-men against the run while corners Al Belloch and Aaron Davies TCB out on the perimeter. Overall the Dawg D will be an exciting crew which when firing on all cylinders has the potential to be a game altering unit.
2005 Projection: Barsby has missed the playoffs only once since 1999 and that by a touchdown. Consecutive championship appearances and one victory in the 99-2000 era have been followed by less lofty post-season heights. In 2004 the program sought renewed direction and emphasis producing a semi-final appearance. This season’s performance will be telling in terms of the effectiveness of the direction taken. Being a very small school (approx. 125 boys G-11 and 12), the effectiveness of the total program approach; performance program, JV squad, cannot be understated in terms of its importance. Undersized but very athletic, special teams, team chemistry and personal attention to detail will be key elements to a playoff run to the dance. With arguably one of the two toughest AA exhibition schedules in the province (conference rival Sands having the other), Barsby opens up with a grudge match against the surging Lord Tweedsmuir Panthers who are looking for 04 wild-card redemption, the biggest AA rivalry in BC in the Border Battle vs Ballenas, a home date against perennial AAA power WJ Mouat and a road trip to play the AAA Pine Tree colossus in Coquitlam. September is going to test the Dawgs where it counts most…mentally. Therein lies the key to what kind of year this team will have. Can Barsby’s varsity squad handle pressure and adversity. Nobody knows just yet. Editor’s pick…Dawgs catch fire in October/November with help from the tenth grade.
Sands
Nick-Name: Scorpions
Colors: Blue and white
Head Coach: Ron Ueyama
Offense: Pro-I/Pro-Split
Defense: 4-3
Offensive Outlook: This unit begins with a very good tailback and a tall, athletic quarterback. Both players will benefit from the decent size and athleticism that prevails across the line. The receiving corps is on the small side but can make plays.
Defensive Outlook: Sands looks to go with a traditional 40 defense with three backers stacked and reports are that they are a very physical front 7. The defensive ends are very good and the linebackers are strong versus inside run with decent speed to the outside. The corners are reportedly undersized but fast.
2005 Projection: Sands is the real deal. Sands has great players coming in from the community programs that will be ready to go from the opening whistle. Coach U has won a championship at all levels and will have his kids up to speed on the highschool game. They are big, tough and experienced with a veteran coaching staff and a love of the game. They are very well coached (about 12 coaches on staff). In spring ball this team beat Burnaby Central and lost a tight one to Moscrop. There is a buzz around the province that says unequivocally that Sands will be a forceful presence in AA this season.
Hugh Boyd
Nick-Name: Trojans
Colors: Yellow, Black and White
Head Coach: Bruce Haddow
Offense: Pro-I/Ace
Defense: 5-3
Offensive Outlook: Offensive Outlook-Will be more of a multiple formation team to take advantage of the speed on this year’s roster. Quarterback- Joe Bouchard has a good arm and lots of mobility. At the running back position the Trojans have three backs that could start. Anthony Murray, Edwin Lo, and Kingston Fan will battle for playing time. Good news for the coaches is that they all love the weight room and are very competitive. The receiving corps is led by Tim Norohna and Mark Hanczak who the staff believe are ready to have big years. At the offensive the Trojans are a young group who will be led by returning starters Curtis Irwin and Jed Spearing.
Defensive Outlook: Linebackers- Athletic group led by third year starter Scott Spencer and second year starter Bryce Osborne. DB'S- The coaching staff feels that the team is six deep at this position. Murray, Norohna, Bouchard, Fan,Tony Dema and Colin cookhouse can all play. Line- Noseguard Sam Chen will anchor the line. Grade 11 Andrew McMillan had a good spring as a defensive end.
2005 Projection The days of 'Huge' Boyd are over or at the very least on hiatus. Believe it or not the Trojans may not have one starting lineman that is over 200 pounds! In a strange way we are very excited about this. The brothers Haddow know it will be difficult to replace the quality lineman they have had in the past, but they also believe that although young, the line will be very athletic an aggressive. This will be the fastest, most athletic team they have had at Hugh Boyd. Speed Boyd!!??? Hold onto your hats folks.
Nanaimo District
Nick-Name: Islanders
Colors: Forest Green, White and Black
Head Coach: Nate Stevenson
Offense: Pro Split
Defense: Double Eagle
Offensive Outlook: With a youthful team, the Islanders will look to a simple power game that they have relied on for the past several seasons. A large O-line with quick backs will move the ball and control the clock. Rookie RB Martin Dinh will look for daylight behind the likes of Guards Wyatt and Cody Jensen. Slotback Tyson Humpherville will always be a threat to break a play into positive yardage.
Defensive Outlook: Pressure defense will be the in vogue at NDSS this season with the unit seeking to pressure offenses into making mistakes while avoiding the big play. LBs Jordan White and Matt Rinas will be leading the charge of this unit.
2005 Projection: While posting a disappointing record last season (2-8), the Islanders have made strides both on and off the field. Very close games against playoff bound teams left NDSS feeling potent and creating a can do attitude. Much work and never quit play is needed. If these two factors can be accomplished, look for the Islanders to land in post season.
Seaquam
Nick-Name: Seahawks
Colors: Royal Blue, Black, and Gold
Head Coach: Paul Taylor
Offense: Pro-Split
Defense: 5-3
Offensive Outlook: The team will be led by QB Alex Babalos. Babalos was the QB of the North Delta Steelers (community) last season. The run game will feature Matt Maniezzo in the backfield who led the community Steelers in rushing last season. The receiving corps will feature speedy and talented receivers Tanner Gill and Tom McDougall both new to the sport.
Defensive Outlook: Like the offense, the defense will be led by Babalos. He was voted MVP of the Bantam Star Bowl as he had 2 interceptions and a fumble recovery. The team is also hoping for big plays from its corps of LBs.
2005 Projection: Making the playoffs first year would be a huge step for the program, but it won't be easy. The team is green all-around with most players having never played football before. Add that to the fact that perennial power John Barsby, the solid new Sands program, and the always tough Hugh Boyd Trojans are in their division and this group will have a tough row to hoe come September and October.. However, the team's experienced coaching staff is hoping to get the Hawks back to the level which saw them make the AA playoffs 6 out of 8 seasons including 4 semi-final appearances during the 1990’s.
Aldergrove
Nick-Name: Totems
Colors: Royal Blue, Sky Blue and White
Head Coach: Francois Joly and Fred Daignault
Offense: Pro I
Defense: 4-4
Offensive Outlook: Not much is known about this group other than the fact that they have an athlete at quarterback and an eager group of players moving up from JV play in 2004. The Totem offense will look to throw the ball off of the run game once they establish it and get stronger each game as the season unfolds.
Defensive Outlook: This unit will have to play big early in order to give the offense time to develop in September. Run stuffing play will be the order of the day and the coaching staff will have its work cut out for it in a very competitive 2005 AA league.
2005 Projection: The coaching staff feels they begin their new varsity squad with a realistic and positive outlook on both offence and defence for this season. Last year was a very interesting experience at the JV level and they are looking forward to developing a very competitive program in 2005. Reports out of Aldergrove are that they had a good spring. This is a program that gets better every year
AA Okanagan Conference
Ranking The Okanagan Conference
1. Clarence Fulton
2. Westsyde
3. Valleyview
4. Kalamalka
5. Okanagen Mission
6. Norkam
7. Quesnel Correlieu
**Teams listed in projected order of finish.
Clarence Fulton
Nick-Name: Maroons
Colors: Maroon and White
Head Coach: Mike Scheller
Offense: Slot-I
Defense: 50
Offensive Outlook: Led by grade 12 quarterback Jesse Brown this unit looks to resume its outstanding production from 2004. Running Backs’s Levi Brodland and James Rodgers are speedsters who will be galloping to glory in the now famous Maroon toss sweep. Wide Receiver Dan Novakowski will lead the way for a young group of catch men who will be called upon often and early to pave the way for Broadland and Rogers at the perimeter. The offensive line will be a mix of veteran and first year players with pretty good size.
Defensive Outlook: This season sees the return of top tackler and iron man James Rogers at linebacker. Rogers will lead a tough defensive unit that can run and hit! The Maroons play their 50 scheme very well and Scheller will have the right bodies in the right positions to get the job done. This unit will only get tougher as the season unfolds.
2005 Projection Fulton is a big fish in a small pond in interior AA football. They have won the division two years in a row now. Two years ago, they won it with 4 teams in it that jumped to AAA the next year. If there is such a thing as an Interior dynasty then these guys are it. Coach Scheller does a terrific job every year and has had the Maroons in the semi-final game four times since 1999.
Westsyde
Nick-Name: Blue Wave
Colors: Navy and White
Head Coach: Kent Lapa
Offense: Pro-I
Defense: 4-4 and 5-3
Offensive Outlook: they were solid at both senior and junior levels last year, and will likely run a balanced attack offensively, as they threw a fair bit in junior last year
Defensive Outlook: They are large and aggressive as always, and will likely be well coached as Kent Lapa takes over the program
2005 Projection: Like a lurking Blue Wave Tsunami Westsyde has all the ingredients of a team coming in under the radar and really shaking things up in the interior conference. The coaching staff is really upbeat with the spring turnout of 35 players and the fact that for the first time in recent memory all of the best athletes in the school have come out for football. This factor alone smacks of high morale and enthusiasm within the school for the program. With no spring exhibition game however it is pretty much a lock that a talented but somewhat inexperienced roster is going to have to place a premium on getting their act in synch. The Blue Wave will have to play serious defense out of the gates to give their offense time to gel. Special teams will be at a premium as well. The key word for this squad is “Potential” and readers should look for the boys in blue to come on strong in October. Editor’s pick: Westsyde and Fulton duke it out for top seed from the Interior.
Valleyview
Nick-Name: Vikings
Colors: Black, White and Red
Head Coach: Bob Dieno
Offense: Pro-I/Pro-Split
Defense: 5-2 and 5-3
Offensive Outlook: Electrifying Vinny Watson at tailback and the very capable Adam Sharp at QB return this year and make Valleyview a definite threat in any game they play. New receivers will have to carve a name for themselves at the perimeter. The Vikings are a program on the rise and the big question mark is whether or not they will have an offensive line to compliment their talented backfield.
Defensive Outlook: Led by returning seniors: Alex Adams (LB), Brad MacFarlane (DE), Brad Taylor (DB) and Rex Haines (DB) this squad has a nucleus to build around. Solid defense will be key for the Vikings early in order to give the offense time to find itself.
2005 Projection: Valleyview really has benefited over the last couple of years from 2 brothers that have come through the program and made Valleyview a threat in every game they have played. First it was Dease Watson, and then following him, is his brother Vinny Watson. Many in the interior feel that the Valleyview /OKM game should be a game that determines 2nd place in the interior.
Kalmalka
Nick-Name: Lakers Colors: Navy and Gold
Head Coach: Lawrei Skolrud
Offense: Pro-I/Pro-Split
Defense: 52/53/44
Offensive Outlook: This team finished in the provincial quarterfinals for Junior last year and is returning to the senior ranks in 2005. Assuming Interior junior MVP Rob Short comes back (he is attending junior hockey try outs) the Lakers will boast a formidable ground attack, led by powerful tailback Short 5’11 195 and Blocking Back David Burroughs. Boston Benesh has shown strong leadership and is developing at QB. Recievers abound, led by Michael Goplen. Up front, there is some concern about size and depth. Conrad Hillis and Florian Chapman are solid on the right side, but the other 3 spots are unsettled at present.
Defensive Outlook: The team’s strength will be in the secondary, where Goplen, Tyler Flood and Tatlor Ronayne all return. Each one of these guys is a solid cover man who tackles well. Short is a key at LB, as is Burroughs and Joe Barisheff. The defensive line is led by Hillis, Drew Baker, and Impressive newcomer at nose, Mark Gadmer
2005 Projection: If Short is there, this is a playoff team. The staff will work to spread the ball to athletic receivers as well as develop a solid group up front. This squad is young, but experienced great success last year, beating provincial powers at the JV level such as South Kamloops and PineTree.
Okanagen Mission
Nick-Name: Huskies
Colors: Navy & Gold
Head Coach: Ray Yarbrough
Offense: Fly
Defense: 5-3
Offensive Outlook: The passing game was a disappointment last season, but with the return of Wipp at the pivot position the team has been able to make another personnel move and turn last seasons QB Stephen Johnson into a Receiver. The keys to the offense will be the fly back position and whether the team can improve what was a dismal passing game last season. If they can do that, this team should have a very explosive and strong offense. If they can't and have to rely solely on the running game again, it could be a long season for the team.
Defensive Outlook: The keys defensively for the team will be the defensive line play. Coaches feel that if the line ties up the offensive line effectively and allows the team’s solid linebacker corps the ability to pursue, they should be very effective and very strong. If the defensive line struggles, so will the rest of the defense.
2005 Projection: This team looks to be a huge improvement over last seasons inaugural season. The biggest weakness for the team will be the lack of size on both lines, however with more players overall on the team the strain of having to play both ways will be lifted. The team beat the teams they should beat last season, but there was a large gap between them and the teams that they didn't beat. This season coaches expect them to continue to beat the teams at the lower level, and move up and be more competitive with the better teams in the interior. The coaching staff feels that an accurate projection would be for this team to place anywhere between 1st - 4th in the interior.
Norkam
Nick-Name: Saints
Colors: Maroon and Grey
Head Coach: Mike Winstanley
Offense: Multiple
Defense: 5-3
Offensive Outlook: This unit should be improved over 2004 with the increased development and maturity of quarterback Joe Morrone, tackle John Walden, and running back Justin Carpenter - all grade 10 starters in 2004.
Defensive Outlook: The defensive Saints should be greatly improved over 2004 as Linemen Brian Ritchie, Stu Ford and AJ Slade go into their final year. Coaches are expecting strong leadership from LB Justin Carpenter.
2005 Projection: Norkam’s season is going to be determined early. Confidence will be the key factor and the coaching staff feels that they will have to show our improvement in the first couple of weeks in order to have any momentum. Where they finish will be determined by their first 3 games. A big concern as far as the start goes is the low numbers that resulted in the cancellation of spring training and the fact that experience is going to be minimal again. Regardless, Coach Winstanley believes that our play on the field will be greatly improved over 2004
Quesnel/Correlieu
Nick-name: Cougars
Colors: Powder Blue and Black
Head Coach: Bill Clapton
Offense: Multiple
Defense: Multiple
Offensive Outlook: Making the adjustment from community ball to HS in a limited exhibition schedule last year was problematic for this squad. With a year under their belts and hard work an improved performance is a definite possibility.
Defensive Outlook: Stopping the run is where all high school defenses need to start. This team has nothing to do except improve upon last year’s performance.
2005 Projection This team struggled last year. They played an exhibition schedule to get ready for the 2005 season. They run a lot of trick and gadget plays, with limited success, but did not seem to really have any base offense or defense
posted by BCSportsFanatic @ 11:15 AM
2 Comments:
At 8:05 PM, September 09, 2005,
Anonymous said…
I would like to say that westsyde may have had a solid senior last year but they have lost the two twins that held them together, and their junior was nothing i belive they lost every game last year they were a joke, sorry to say that.
At 11:31 AM, September 23, 2005,
Anonymous said…
I'd like to know if you are going to update these rankings because I see no way you have OKM ranked below Valleyview and Kalemalka, they don't even have a team anymore do they?
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