S1
2021 FOOTBALL Preview
Featuring
EAST SURRY EAST WILKES ELKIN FORBUSH
MOUNT AIRY NORTH STOKES NORTH SURRY
SOUTH STOKES STARMOUNT SURRY CENTRAL WEST STOKES S2
Carolina Roofing & Construction Our Family Has Been Taking Care Of Your Roofing & Home Improvement Needs Since 1934
2019 Winner NT AIR OU Y N M E E W H S T #1 & BEST MOUNTIE AWARD
OF THE BEST Winner2021 What we can provide for your service needs Vinyl Siding · Paint Interior & Exterior · Seamless Gutters • Residential & Commercial Roofing Single Ply Rubber Specialist for all your Flat Roof Roofing needs Asphalt Shingles · Metal Roofing Meet Our Newest Addition Our family continues with the 5th generation
PREVIEW 2021 PREVIEW Thomas Alexander Cochrane Professionalism Over Profit Since 1934
FOOTBALL 1375 South Main St | Mount Airy, NC 27030
(336) 786-1260 | carolina-roofing.business.site/
2 70052333 S3
Things don’t always go as planned.
We’re here for you. FOOTBALL PREVIEW 2021
Choose Well. Choose Northern.
ChooseNorthern.org | NorthernUrgentCare.com 3 70051907 MTAS4
We’ve Put Together MOUNT AIRY Another Winning Team At BEARS
We Wish All Area Teams Good Luck on This Season!
Pilot Mountain Guns & aMMo Buy, Sell, Trade! Class 3 Dealer 1328 Carter Street, Suite 400, Mount Airy Located Between Harbor Freight & Big Lots 336-648-8220 | [email protected] | [email protected] Tues - Fri 9:30-6:00 | Sat 9:30-3:00 Shop online at www.pilotmtnguns.com John, Malinda and Clint Riggs
Look for us on Facebook & Instagram 70052283
SCENIC SCENIC CHEVROLET • BUICK FORD • LINCOLN GMC • CADILLAC www.scenicford.com PREVIEW 2021 PREVIEW www.scenicgmautos.com 1992 rockford st. Hwy 601 Scenic Subaru mount airy, nc www.scenicsubaru.com 336-789-9591 FOOTBALL 420-422 North Main Street, Mt. Airy, NC 27030 2300 rockford st. mount airy, nc
Phone: 336-786-8659 Service: 336-786-4442
4 336-789-9011 70052412 www.brannockandhiattfurniture.com 70052251 MTAS5
2021-22 VARSITY GRANITE BEARS FOOTBALL TEAM
Cory Smith | The Mount Airy News
GranitE City Strong FOOTBALL PREVIEW 2021 By Cory Smith 4-3 overall, 4-1 conference, Northwest Honors: quarterback Holden Poindexter, the Year for the spring ‘21 season. Moore [email protected] 1A Conference Runner-up, lost in the first running back Cameron Moore, Dalton led the Bears in yards rushing and rushing round of 1AA State Playoffs Nance – who was honored as both a wide touchdowns, while Nance was the team’s TEAM KEY LOSSES receiver and defensive back – and defensive leading receiver in yards receiving and re- Mount Airy Granite Bears Mount Airy only graduated seven seniors back William Mayfield. ceiving TDs. HEAD COACH in 2021, but many of those seniors played Poindexter graduated as Mount Airy’s On defense, Nance and Mayfield helped J.K. Adkins, 24-8 record at Mount Airy critical roles for the Granite Bears. Four all-time leading passer and was named Mount Airy hold conference opponents to 5 LAST SEASON graduating seniors received All-Conference NW1A Conference Co-Offensive Player of just 23 points across five games. Nance led S6
MOUNT AIRY BEARS
Jimmy Kuhn | Special to the News
the team in pass deflections, while May- tackles per game in the spring. Fellow line- ell are strong returning players expected to tions last season. Tyler Mason and Mario field led the Bears in forced fumbles. backers Isom and Taylor were recognized get reps on defense. He also noted Mason Revels add to Mount Airy’s speed in the DEFENSE/SPECIAL TEAMS as All-Conference honorable mentions last Hill, who was an All-Conference selection secondary. The Mount Airy defense returns its top seasons and look to make the top squad in on the offensive line last season, and Sao Zeb Stroup is also joined by his brother six tacklers from the 2020-21 school year: the new-look NW1A Conference. The two Lennon will share some duties on defense. Walker, now a sophomore, in the second- Reece Deaton, Nic Isom, Kasen Taylor, De- were second and third on the team in total Zeb Stroup, a force on both sides of the ary. ric Dandy, Zeb Stroup and Jonah Bilyeu. tackles as juniors. ball, returns for his senior season. The ath- Walker Stroup is one of two players com- “We do return a lot of experience on that Dandy was an intimidating force on the letic cornerback had a pair of interceptions peting for placekicking duties. Adkins said side of the ball,” said coach J.K. Adkins. defensive line as a 6-foot 4-inch, 210-pound to go along with two pass deflections in he has two really good options with Walker
PREVIEW 2021 PREVIEW “We have some tough, physical kids and freshman. He picked up four sacks and two 2020-21. and Dylan Tilley. Tilley kicked PATs for the they’ve got a good understanding of what tackles for a loss during his first season “Zeb is a plug-and-play kind of guy,” Bears last season, hitting 24-of-27, and was their job is. It’s no secret that any time you with the varsity squad. Dandy had 40 tack- Adkins said. “He does a lot of good for us 2-of-3 on field goal attempts. have a good defense, you have a chance to les during the shortened 2020-21 season, wherever we need him.” “Dylan’s done a great job in the off-sea- FOOTBALL win football games.” and Bilyeu, a sophomore last season, had Mount Airy’s defensive backfield is filled son and has really strengthened his leg,”
Deaton is a two-time All-Conference 31 tackles. with athletes. The Bears also return safety Atkins said. “Walker is a great kicker in his 6 linebacker that led the Bears with 11.0 Adkins said Caden Joyce and Logan Dow- Peyton Fonville, who had a pair of intercep- own right, too.” S7
MOUNT AIRY BEARS
OFFENSE be a “ground-oriented, more option-based Mount Airy opens the season with games Wilkes on September 17. It will mark Ad- Mount Airy had a mix of rushing and offense.” against three county rivals. The Granite kins’ first game against his former team and passing offense in 2020-21 by averaging Of Mount Airy’s 31-total touchdowns in Bears played host in the latest edition of is the Bears’ first game in the new North- 212.0 yards on the ground and 141.2 in the 2020-21, 21 were scored by members of the the Sock Bowl against an improving North west 1A Conference. Elkin, East Wilkes and air. However, the Bears come into this sea- class of 2020. Of the 10 scored by returning Surry squad in week one, and came away Starmount join the NW1A Conference after son without their starting quarterback and players, Zeb Stroup and Tyler Mason each with a strong win, 43-0. Next, they will trav- leaving the Mountain Valley split confer- running back from last season. had three, and the following players each el down the road to face the defending 1AA ence. There are three candidates currently bat- had one: Deric Dandy, Peyton Fonville, Naz- West Regional Champs East Surry before “I’m far enough removed from that league tling for the job of starting QB: Zeb Stroup, rel Bell and Josh Penn. ending with a road game against Surry Cen- that I’m not quite sure what other people Ian Gallimore and Logan Fonville. Zeb is the Bell, Mason and Zeb Stroup each had tral, which makes the first meeting between have,” Adkins said. “I do think the new only QB with varsity experience. He served more than 100 yards rushing last season. the teams since 2018. conference makes sense in our area with as Mount Airy’s quarterback during the Bell and Stroup each had one rushing touch- Mount Airy’s schedule also includes enough 1A and 2A teams to split it up.” 2019-20 season and threw for 1,186 yards down, while Mason had three. games against the top two teams in the for- SCHEDULE and 16 touchdowns with a .531 completion Adkins highlighted Mason as one of the mer Mountain Valley 1A/2A Conference: Friday, 8/20 vs. North Surry 7:30 percentage. Zeb also served as backup QB Bears’ projected running backs. The coach Ashe County and Elkin. Ashe went unde- Friday, 8/27 @ East Surry 7:30 in Mount Airy’s playoff game against Pine also mentioned Reece Deaton, Traven feated during the spring 2021 regular sea- Friday, 9/3 @ Surry Central 7:30 Lake Prep in the spring. Thompson and Josh Penn as viable options. son before falling in the first round of the Friday, 9/10 vs. Ashe County 7:30 Fonville is a junior and Gallimore is a The Bears’ run game is boosted by its two 2AA State Playoffs. Friday, 9/17 @ East Wilkes* 7:30 sophomore. Fonville served as the Granite returning All-Conference linemen: Mason Elkin finished 6-2 last season. The Elks’ Friday, 9/24 vs. South Stokes* 7:30 Bears’ JV quarterback during the spring Hill and Kandon Davis. Both will be seniors only regular season loss was against Ashe Friday, 10/1 @ Starmount* 7:30 2021 season, while Gallimore was limited this season. Hill received his first All-Con- County, and the team reached the Elite Friday, 10/8 vs. North Stokes* 7:30 due to an injury. ference selection in the spring 2021 season, Eight of the 1A State Playoffs before losing Friday, 10/15 OPEN Adkins plans to use a “plethora of backs” while Davis has been honored the past two to the eventual state champion, Murphy. Friday, 10/22 @ Elkin* 7:30 to move the chains this season. He described seasons. Another interesting matchup will be Friday, 10/29 @ Alleghany* 7:30 Mount Airy’s projected 2021-22 offense to BIG GAMES Mount Airy’s conference opener at East *Conference CardinalsBears roster
NO. NAME POS. YR. HT. WT. NO. NAME POS. YR. HT. WT. 1 Zeb Stroup QB, WR, CB Senior 6’ 2” 185 lbs 32 Deric Dandy DE, TE Sophomore 6’ 4” 210 lbs 2 Kasen Taylor LB, WR Senior 5’ 10” 180 lbs 42 Logan Finch HB, DE Junior 6’ 0” 185 lbs 3 Mario Revels WR, DB Sophomore 5’ 11” 160 lbs 44 Blake Hawks NG, WR Sophomore 6’ 1” 165 lbs 4 Reece Deaton LB, RB Senior 5’ 10” 205 lbs 50 Jonah Bilyeu OL, DL Junior 6’ 0” 215 lbs 5 Tyler Mason RB, DB Sophomore 6’ 0” 180 lbs 54 Hayden Bender Sophomore 5’ 10” 178 lbs 6 Nic Isom OLB Senior 5’ 10” 175 lbs 55 Matthew Bagley G, DE Senior 6’ 2” 230 lbs 7 Logan Dowell HB, DE Senior 6’ 0” 175 lbs 59 CamRon Webster OL, DL Junior 5’ 11” 210 lbs FOOTBALL PREVIEW 2021 8 Josh Penn RB, DE Senior 6’ 0” 215 lbs 64 Kam Hawks OL, DL Sophomore 6’ 3” 210 lbs 10 Peyton Fonville FS Senior 6’ 0” 190 lbs 65 Landon Cox OL, DE Sophomore 6’ 1” 190 lbs 12 Logan Fonville QB, DB Junior 6’ 0” 160 lbs 66 Sao Lennon OL, DL Senior 5’ 10” 245 lbs 14 Avery Poindexter WR, MLB Junior 155 lbs 70 Mason Hill OL, DL Senior 5’ 11” 210 lbs 15 Ian Gallimore MLB, QB Sophomore 5’ 10” 183 lbs 74 Clint Riggs OL, DL Junior 6’ 4” 275 lbs 19 Nick Penn WR, DE Senior 6’ 1” 1 85 lbs 75 Caden Joyce OL, DL Sophomore 6’ 4” 240 lbs 20 Traven Thompson RB, LB Junior 5’ 11” 170 lbs 80 Dylan Tilley K Senior 5’ 10” 145 lbs 21 Walker Stroup WR, DB Sophomore 5’ 11” 1 75 lbs 87 Caleb Collins WR, DB Senior 5’ 9” 140 lbs
22 Brison George RB, DB Sophomore 5’ 5” 135 lbs 88 Josh Chavis WR, DB Junior 5’ 10” 165 lbs 7 25 Caleb Reid RB, DB Sophomore 6’ 1” 1 80 lbs Surry Central S8
SURRY CENTRAL GOLDEN EAGLES Continuing the Ascent By Cory Smith tackles, five tackles for a loss, three sacks, and carry momentum moving forward. five pass deflections, four forced fumbles, [email protected] one forced fumble and two fumble recover- “The brunt of our team was juniors, and three TFL and an interception. ies. He also filled in on the offensive line. we didn’t have many sophomores on var- In addition to his defense, Priddy made TEAM Whitaker, primarily a defensive end, set sity,” Southern said. “We’ve got what we waves in the spring as one of the top re- Surry Central Golden Eagles a new Surry Central school record with feel like is a strong senior class that’s very turners in the state. As a junior, Priddy led COACH 15.0 sacks. He also had 40 total tackles, versatile. We have a lot of skilled guys. the state with 348 yards on kickoff returns Monty Southern, 57-97 record at Surry 14 TFL, two forced fumbles, two fumble This is a tight knit group that’s played to- in the regular season. He also had the lon- Central recoveries and one blocked punt. gether their whole lives.” gest kickoff returned for a TD in the state, LAST SEASON Woods and Holt were great two-way Four all-around athletes return to make- running 94 yards to score. 4-3 overall, 4-3 conference, Tied for players. Woods was the team’s leading re- up Surry Central’s secondary a deadly One of the few juniors on the team, Clay third place in the Western Piedmont 2A ceiver with 357 yards and six touchdowns. weapon this season: Logan Priddy, Kar- Whitaker, has been impressive at safety. Conference On defense, Woods had 31 total tackles, son Crouse, Memphis Bolatto and Da- Senior Kade Norman, an All-Conference KEY LOSSES four TFL, one interception, one forced kota Mills. Priddy started the spring 2021 honorable mention with 37 total tack- Surry Central graduated seven seniors fumble, one fumble recovery and one season as cornerback, but then moved to les last season, anchors the linebackers. in 2021. Though fewer in numbers than blocked field goal. safety with Crouse as Mills found his fit Southern said one of his running mates the 2019 and 2021 spring season, many of Quarterback Holt threw for 750 yards at corner. will be Cole Butcher, who spent his time the seniors were longtime starters for the and eight touchdowns, while also being Crouse, Bolatto and Mills were all given on the defensive line in the spring. Golden Eagles. second on the team in yards rushing with All-Conference Honors last season, while Andres Gonzalez, another returning Four members of the class of 2021 re- 253. Holt also had 20 total tackles, five Mills – playing his first season of football All-Conference player, is one of the play- ceived All-Conference Honors in the TFL and two interceptions. for the Golden Eagles – was an honorable ers that looks to fill the holes left by Camp- spring 2021 season: Chase Holt, Ste- DEFENSE/SPECIAL TEAMS mention. bell and Whitaker. He’s been on the varsity ven Campbell, Sam Whitaker and Brady The spring 2021 season marked Surry Mills led the team with three intercep- squad ever since the midway point of his Woods. Central’s first winning season since 2016. tions, and Bolatto had one as well to go freshman year. Gonzalez had seven TFL, Campbell and Whitaker both made their A lot of the same players are playing this with his five pass deflections, a fumble re- five sacks and a safety last season. biggest impact on defense. Campbell, a fall. Led by 17 seniors, Southern hopes to covery and a blocked punt. Krouse led the Blake Edwards is another player that linebacker finished the year with 28 total bridge the gap between the two seasons team with 49 tackles in seven games, had will make a big impact on the defensive CardinalsGolden Eagles roster
NO. NAME YR. POS. HT. WT. NO. NAME YR. POS. HT. WT. 1 Dakota Mills Senior WR/DB 6’1 160 32 Wyatt Burton Senior WR/DB 5’9” 175 3 Cole Butcher Senior RB/LB 6’ 190 34 Lucas Johnson Freshman RB/LB 6’ 180 4 Karson Crouse Senior RB/S 6’/ 180 50 Kade Norman Senior OL/LB 6’1” 215 5 Carlos Martinez Junior AB/C 5’8” 140 55 Enoc Lopez Junior OL/LB 5’10” 200 6 Mason Jewell Freshman QB/S 5’1” 150 56 Andres Gonzalez Senior OL/DL 5’10” 220 7 Logan Priddy Senior AB/S 6’ 180 58 Christian Robinson Senior OL/DL 6’3” 260 8 Ayden Wilmoth Sophomore AB/LB 5’11” 160 60 Cannon Gates Senior OL/DL 6’2” 230 9 Avery Wilmoth Senior QB/LB 6’1” 195 62 Reid Danley Sophomore OL/DL 5’9” 195 11 Spencer Leclair Senior AB/LB 6’ 170 71 Samuel Branch Junior OL/DL 5’8” 265 15 Jacob Edmonds Senior K 6’1” 170 73 Jose Rayo Senior OL/DL 6’ 220 PREVIEW 2021 PREVIEW 16 Brady Edmonds Senior WR/LB 6’2” 170 74 Blake Edwards Senior OL/DL 5’11” 205 17 Brian Williams Freshman AB/DB 5’8” 135 75 Fisher Freeman Sophomore OL/DL 5’9” 260 19 Dante Watson Senior AB/LB 5’10 165 77 Graden Spurlin Junior OL/DL 6’4’ 315 21 Memphis Bolatto Senior WR/DB 5’11”/ 55 81 Cole Snow Junior WR/DB 5’8” 130 FOOTBALL 22 Clay Whitaker Junior WR/S 5’8” 155 82 Evan Wall Sophomore WR/DB 6’1”/ 40
24 Trevor Dutton Junior WR/LB 6’2” 160 84 Kyle Inman Sophomore WR/DB 5’7” 130 8 30 Allen Huffman Freshman AB/S 5’9” 145 Surry CentralS9
2021-22 VARSITY GOLDEN EAGLES FOOTBALL TEAM line, Southern said. Edwards didn’t play in the spring, but is someone that fits right in with the group of nearly two dozen se- niors. Another of the seniors, Jacob Edmonds, returns as the team’s placekicker. He knocked down 16-of-22 PATs and 1-of-2 field goals in the spring. OFFENSE Surry Central’s offense returned two key pieces in the form of Crouse and Priddy. The two carried the ball nearly 90 times combined last season and that was with another running back in the rotation and a mobile QB. They were first and second on the team in yards per carry, with Priddy getting 5.0 and Crouse 6.5, and combined for 11 of Central’s 13 rushing touchdowns. “We feel really good with those two,” Southern said. “They’re two kids with a lot of experience playing varsity football.” Amy Cave | Special to the News Also in the backfield mix is running back Dante Watson. Watson was able to formed Foothills 2A Conference that fea- Friday, 8/20 @ Alleghany 7:30 Friday, 10/1 @ Elkin 7:30 get more reps than expected last year with tures three teams from the former West- Friday, 8/27 vs. East Wilkes 7:30 Friday, 10/8 vs. Forbush* 7:30 Avery Wilmoth out with an injury. ern Piedmont and Mountain Valley Con- Friday, 9/3 vs. Mount Airy 7:30 Friday, 10/15 vs. North Wilkes* 7:30 Wilmoth is set to be the Eagles’ QB this ferences and one that was promoted to Friday, 9/10 OPEN Friday, 10/22 @ North Surry* 7:30 season. the 2A division from the Northwest 1A Friday, 9/17 @ West Wilkes* 7:30 Friday, 10/29 @ East Surry* 7:30 “We did a little bit more throwing this Conference. Friday, 9/24 vs. Wilkes Central* 7:30 *Conference summer than we usually do, and he did 70- “I love it,” Southern said when discuss- 80 percent of the reps and looked great,” ing the Eagles’ new conference. “The trav- Southern said. “He was our JV quarter- el is going to pretty similar; I just think back before last year. He’s really smart and we will have a better crowd at schools now a really conscientious kid.” and they’ll travel better coming here. I also Your Headquarters Central averaged just under 100 yards think it’s going to be really competitive.” receiving in the spring. Woods accounted Central’s first big test comes on week for 18 of the team’s 42 total receptions and three when the Eagles host Mount Airy for Surry County Sports 360 of the 699 total yards. Priddy was the for the first time since 2018. Scheduling only other player with more than six re- conflicts kept the two county rivals from ceptions, hauling in eight passes for 191 doing battle the last few seasons. Surry Follow High School Sports yards and a TD. Central last defeated the Bears in 2015, Southern said he feels good about air- but Mount Airy has won almost every Coverage in Print and Online ing the ball out with athletes like Mills, other recent meeting. Bolatto and Brady Edmonds available for The Eagles have a tough road follow- big plays, and then having players such ing their BYE week in early September. as Watson, Priddy, Krouse and Whitaker The team hosts Wilkes Central (5-2 last available as well. season), travels to Elkin (6-2 last season) Four of five offensive line starters from then hosts the 2020-21 Western Piedmont FOOTBALL PREVIEW 2021 the spring returned for the 2021-22 sea- 2A Conference Co-Champion Forbush (6- son. Andres Gonzalez is the only return- 1) last season. The Mount Airy News ing All-Conference lineman, but Southern After a home game against North Wil- expects him to be surrounded by players kes, Surry Central ends the season with such as Christian Robinson, Kade Nor- road games at North Surry (4-3 last sea- man, Cannon Gates, Jose Rayo and Blake son), who battled tooth-and-nail to defeat Edwards. the Eagles in the spring, and East Surry 319 N. Renfro St. – Mount Airy “I’m excited,” Southern said. “This is a (9-2 last season), who won the Northwest really fun group to coach. The group in the 1A Conference Championship and 1AA 336.786.4141 spring was too.” West Regional Championship this past BIG GAMES mtairynews.com
season. 9 Surry Central will compete in the newly SCHEDULE 70052335 South StokesS10
SOUTH STOKES SAURAS Sauras staying Sauras roster
NO. NAME YR. POS. focused 1 Junior Hairston Sophomore QB/DB 2 Timothy Chalmers Sophomore RB/LB By Robert Money Jr. 3 Matthew Waters Senior TE/DE 5 DJ Goolsby Senior WR/RB/DB [email protected] 6 Anthony Campbell Senior WR/DB 7 Evan Ashley Junior WR/DB TEAM 9 Arlyn Durrell Junior RB/LB South Stokes 10 Brendon Bradford Junior WR/DB 11 Isiah Lash Sophomore WR/FS COACH 12 Jesse Carrick Senior RB/LB David Diamont, 9-10 (300-163) 13 Nolan Coe Junior QB/LB record at South Stokes 14 Michael Fallin Senior QB/SS LAST SEASON 16 Daniel Martin Junior WR/DB 2-5, 0-5 conference, sixth place in the 17 Connor Cox Freshman QB/DB 18 Keelan Robertson Junior WR/DB Northwest 1A Conference 20 Noah Booe Sophomore RB/LB KEY LOSSES 22 Evan Patterson Senior RB/DB The biggest losses for the Sauras are 25 Justin Joyce Freshman WR/DB All-Conference players Johnny Dotson 30 Cameron East Freshman WR/DB 33 Austin Evans Senior RB/CB and Jordan Mitchell. Dotson led the 35 Jason Hernandez Freshman RB/DB team with 65 tackles and two fumble 43 Jaryd Galloway Junior FB/DE recoveries on defense and played 50 Moises Jaramillo Sophomore OL/DL several downs on the offensive side 51 Parker Barron Freshman OL/DL 53 Nick Heavener Senior OL/DE relieving Mitchell at fullback. He gained 55 Carson Hall Senior OL/DL 126 rushing yards and two touchdowns. 56 Bryson Mabe Freshman OL/DL Mitchell chimed in with 45 tackles and 58 Michael Werts Sophomore OL/DL a sack from the defensive line. He was 59 Matthew Inman Junior OL/DL second on the team in most rushing 60 Colton Pruitt Freshman OL/DL 61 Wyatt McBride Senior OL/DE yards with 450 yards and was first with 62 Alex Johnson Freshman OL/DL the most rushing touchdowns of six. 63 Logan Knight Junior OL/LB Quarterback Tyler Patterson 64 Patrick Chaney Freshman OL/DL controlled the Sauras offense and was David Diamont 65 Vinnie McManus Sophomore OL/LB 68 Jordan Fulp Sophomore OL/DE selected as honorable mention All- 70 Dalton Hutchings Freshman OL/DL Conference. Defensive players Gabriel 72 Alex LaRoche Sophomore OL/DL Gibson (27 tackles), Zachary Warning of the kickoffs and sophomore Isiah 73 Bryce Epperson Freshman OL/DL (23 tackles), and Arron Justice (27 Lash will take over the punting duties. 75 Landon Johnson Junior OL/DL tackles) were solid at their positions. Waters averaged 42.1 yards per kick last 79 Dezmond Galloway Sophomore OL/DL DEFENSE/SPECIAL TEAM season. Returning starters from last year’s Carrick, Goolsby, Lash, Noah Booe, and JR Hairston will take turns handling team are scarce. The Sauras return four OPENING HOURS: defensive starters: Matthew Waters, kickoff and punt return duties. Monday-Thursday OFFENSE 11am-9:30pm DJ Goolsby, Jesse Carrick and Wyatt Friday 11am-10pm McBride. Carrick (27 tackles), who The team returns three on the Saturday 7am-10pm Sunday Closed was tagged honorable mention All- offensive side of the ball. Carrick will Conference last season, and Waters (49 carry the load out of the backfield. He PREVIEW 2021 PREVIEW missed one game due to a concussion, tackles) will anchor the defense in the 1/2 Price Wine Night Enjoy our snacks Celebrate with us Drink Specials middle, while Goolsby will lead a young but still ran for 488 yards with three Thurs. Nights! From cheese fries to wings! Bring the whole family! Great Deals every weekday! secondary. McBride will continue his touchdowns. Joining him as a returning
FOOTBALL starter is offensive lineman Carson Hall excellence at the defensive end position. 627 S Main St. •King, NC 27021 The Sauras are still looking for a and Moises Santana. [email protected] •T/336-983-3641 Enjoy your favorite wine for From cheese fries to wings, Bring the whole family to Great deals on wine and beer “We are relying on so many players half price on Thursday nights! our pub snacks are a must on celebrate your special event 10 every weekday!!! place-kicker, but Waters will take care your evening out! with us! 70052297 South StokesS11
2021-22 SOUTH STOKES VARSITY FOOTBALL TEAM
Robert Money | The Stokes News who will play various positions,” said big game simply because Coach David Diamont. “Their ability to perform in Diamont led that program for many different positions at different times years and their stadium is named after during a game will be our ‘key.’ We need the legendary coach. Your Headquarters to improve our physical strength and North Stokes beat the Sauras last setting out to be the best team member season breaking a South six-game you possibly can become.” winning streak. The game is slated for for Stokes County Sports BIG GAMES the last game of the season and surely West Stokes is always a big game for the stadium will be packed from the the Sauras, as it is for the Wildcats. North and Southern part of the county The King, Pinnacle and Walnut Cove for bragging rights. communities shared South Stokes SCHEDULE Follow High School Sports until West Stokes opened its doors in Friday, 8/20 vs. West Stokes 7:30 p.m. the 1999-00 school year. The teams Friday, 8/27 at Bishop McGuinness didn’t play each other last year due to 7:30 p.m. Coverage in Print and Online COVID-19 restrictions, but the Sauras Friday, 9/3 at McMichael 7:30 p.m. beat the Wildcats 12-8 in a season that Friday, 9/10 vs. East Surry 7:30 p.m. FOOTBALL PREVIEW 2021 West made the 2A West Regional Finals. Friday, 9/17 vs. Alleghany 7:30 p.m.* Bishop McGuinness and McMichael Friday, 9/24 at Mount Airy 7:30 p.m. * are key non-conference games for the Friday, 10/1 at East Wilkes 7:30 p.m. * Sauras. Both are very winnable games Friday, 10/15 at Starmount 7:30 p.m. and it’s important for South to get early * winnable games before entering its Friday, 10/22 vs. North Stokes 7:30 tough conference play. p.m*. 122 S. Main St. - King Other big games for the Sauras are Friday, 10/29 vs. Elkin 7:30 p.m. * East Surry and North Stokes. Although *Conference 336.591.8191 the Cardinals hold a lop-sided record 11 Robert Money can be reached at 336-749-1193. thestokesnews.com against the Sauras, it’s going to be a 70052337 North StokesS12
2021-22 NORTH STOKES VARSITY FOOTBALL TEAM
Robert Money | The Stokes News
A greAT PlAce to book • ScHool Field TriPS North • BirTHdAy PArTieS • cHurcH grouPS Stokes Fun AcTiViTieS For THe wHole FAMily • 3 Acre HAy BAle MAze • cAnnon BAll Vikings PiPe Slide • Pony rideS • Arrow THrowing Fall SeaSon • giAnT Bounce September 11- APPLIANCES Pillow november 13 Green Tec And MucH More! KitchenAid admiSSion $12, Lancer New Hours! UndeR 2 iS FRee! Liberty Furniture september: th Amana Maytag Sat 10-9 Join US oCtobeR 30 B.J Ashley Sealy SUn 12:30-6:30 FoR a veRy SpeCial Bernards Vaughn-Basset PREVIEW 2021 PREVIEW FiReWoRkS diSplay! Best Home Furnishings Furniture Co. october & Crown Mark Whirlpool November: Wed 9-3 336-593-8237 | bjstevensfurniture.com thURS 9-3 FOOTBALL 3901 NC 8 HWY North, Danbury, NC 27016 FRi 9-9 1129 Cheek Road hamptonville, nC 27020 Sat 10-9 (336)466-5402 | alphaomegaCoRnmaze.Com 70052322 12 STEVENS FURNITURE SUn 12:30-6:30 70052432 North StokesS13
NORTH STOKES VIKINGS VIKINGS Vikings STARTING A roster NEW ERA NO. NAME YR. POS. 2 Elijah Cone Senior QB/DB 11 Justin Rogers Junior RB/DB By Robert Money Jr. 12 Jamison Wood Junior QB/WR/DB [email protected] 19 Ethan Garcia Sophomore RB/DB 20 Victor Martinez Senior RB/DB TEAM North Stokes Vikings 25 Tyler Wood Junior RB/LB COACH 44 Ethan Puckett Senior RB/LB Jamie Fortner, first year at North Stokes 50 CJ Smith Senior OL/DL LAST SEASON 52 Garrett Smith Senior OL/DL 3-4, 1-4 conference, fifth place in the 54 Cameron Bullins Sophomore OL/DL Northwest 1A Conference 55 Brian Tysinger Sophomore OL/DL KEY LOSSES 60 Will Greer Sophomore OL/DL The Vikings lost All-Conference players 62 Bryan Mabe Junior OL/DL Jacob Murray and Adam Pollard and 63 Chris Hardin Junior OL/DL honorable mention athlete Dylan James. 66 Ethan Roberson Senor OL/DL Murray led the team with 508 yards 81 Tanner Horsely Senior WR/DB rushing and recorded the most tackles Jamie Fortner 85 Josh Manring Senior TE/WR/DE on defense with 72. Pollard anchored the offensive and defensive line and James position after throwing for 205 yards and recorded 35 tackles and averaged 5.3 yards two touchdowns on 15 completions. He Another big game for the Vikings is Friday, 9/24 at Starmount 7:30 p.m.* per rush on 11 attempts. also rushed for 311 yards on 65 carries, cross-county rival South Stokes. North Friday, 10/1 vs. Alleghany 7:30 p.m. * Other key losses for the Vikings were scoring two touchdowns. broke South’s six-game winning streak Friday, 10/8 at Mount Airy 7:30 p.m. * Matthew Edwards (transferred to East Martinez led the Vikings with 102 with a 22-8 victory last year. Friday, 10/15, vs. East Wilkes 7:30 p.m. Surry), Deuce Chalmers (transferred to carries last season gaining 504 yards SCHEDULE * South Stokes), and linebacker Scotty and three touchdowns. Puckett will get Friday, 8/27 at North Moore 7:30 p.m. Friday, 10/22 at South Stokes 7:30 p.m.* Stevens, who decided not to play because more carries in the backfield and Hardin, Friday, 9/3 at Chatham Central 7:30 p.m. *Conference games of multiple injuries. Manring, CJ Smith, and Garrett Smith will Friday, 9/10 vs. Patrick County 7:30 p.m. DEFENSE/SPECIAL TEAMS hold down the offensive line. Friday, 9/17 vs. Elkin 7:30 p.m. * Robert Money can be reached at 336-749-1193. The Vikings return six defensive “With the number of players we have, players: Ethan Puckett, Elijah Cone, Victor keeping everyone healthy is the biggest Martinez, Garret Smith, Josh Manring and key,” said Fortner. “The team is working FOOTBALL PREVIEW 2021 Jamison Wood. Puckett led the defense tremendously hard and the younger players with 58 tackles, Manring 31, Martinez are picking up on the system well. If we 28 (two interceptions) and Cone 20. keep the work ethics and positive attitude Wood added 13 tackles and three passes it will be a successful season.” defended after starting midway through BIG GAMES the season. The Vikings will open the season OFFENSE with non-conference opponents South North Stokes returns seven offensive Davidson, North Moore, Chatham Central Barretto Track Bobcat T-550 starters to the team: CJ Smith, Chris Bobcat E32 Excavator Trencher Track Loader Barretto Stump Grinder
and Patrick County. Each same is very Hardin, Puckett, Cone, Martinez, Manring winnable before the Vikings enter league 825 W. Lebanon St., Mt. Airy 636 S. Main St., King and Garrett Smith. 13 play in one of the toughest conferences in 336-789-RENT 336-958-8222 Cone will return at the quarterback the area. www.cookerentals.com 70051912 West StokesS14
2021-22 WEST STOKES VARSITY FOOTBALL TEAM
Robert Money | The Stokes News Johnson Wildcats looking to rebound from
336-591-5534 2-4 season Terry Gaither 201 W. Fourth St. LUTCF, Agency Manager Walnut Cove, NC 27052 high six sacks and added 38 tackles and By Robert Money Jr. 336-593-2801 [email protected] one interception. He was also the Wildcats’ punter. Barker had 12 punts with a long of 407 N. Main St. Danbury, NC 27016 TEAM 47 yards. West Stokes Wildcats Pack was a two-way starter and a two- 336-983-0361 COACH time All-Conference selection. He helped 100 River Birch Ct. Chris Johnson, 2-4 (46-71) record at West the Wildcats to the West Regional Finals King, NC 27021 Stokes in 2019 and this past season paced the LAST SEASON defensive line with 40 tackles. Pack assisted the offensive line in helping West Stokes 2-4, 2-4 conference, sixth place in the An Authorized Agency for Western Piedmont 2A Conference gain nearly 1,300 yards in offense. KEY LOSSES Shrewsbury mainly played on the West Stokes graduated seven players offensive line, but got multiple snaps on PREVIEW 2021 PREVIEW from its 2020-21 roster, two of which earned the defensive front. He recorded 14 tackles All-Conference Honors and one Honorable and a sack, but he was more than that. Mention: Cameron Pack, Gabriel Barker, Shrewsbury’s job was to clog the middle and and Ayden Shrewsbury. All three players he was one of the best at doing it. FOOTBALL made an impact in their own way. Barker DEFENSE/SPECIAL TEAM
missed the first game of the season against The Wildcats return five of its top seven 14 Surry Central, but still finished with a team defensive players. All-Conference player 70052321 West StokesS15
WEST STOKES WILDCATS
Dakota Barker led the team with 57 tackles and nine tackles for loss. Honorable mention selection Dillon Stanley added 44 tackles in the No. 2 spot and Orasha Graham came in Wildcats with the fifth most tackles at 33. Defensive lineman Bryan Gordon was sixth on the list with 28, and even though Brighton Berthrong only played in three games this past spring, he finished seventh on the team roster with 16. NO. NAME YR. POS. “With low numbers, we must have an injury-free season,” said Johnson. “Our 1 Mason Cain Junior QB/FS Chris Johnson development and continuity of our line 2 Spencer Betha Senior WR/DB play will be key to our success. We need year and Blackburn has to have an impactful 3 Brighton Berthrong Senior WR/DB to be excellent tacklers even though the season. Rawley’s ability to make big plays 4 Dylan Roscoe Senior QB/DB state putting restrictions on hitting during will be a must for us. Bryan Gordon has had 7 Dillon Stanley Junior RB/DB practice.” a great camp and if he can continue at the 8 DJ Moore Junior OL/OLB Jerry Adkins returns as the Wildcats’ pace he’s been on, it will help us immensely.” 9 Jasir Gaye Junior WR/DB kicker this season. He was 2-for-5 in field BIG GAMES goal attempts and was 7-for-9 in extra-point The Wildcats opened the season with a 11 Demorick Blakely Junior WR/DB attempts. He also took care of the kickoff strong win against cross-county rival South 12 Hunter Ramey Junior WR/DB duties with 20 attempts and two touch-backs Stokes, 49-6. Prior to this match-up, West 13 Keyon Rawley Sophomore WR/CB last season. held an overall 16-05 record, but the Sauras 15 Gary Perminter Junior WR/DB Stanley returned most of the Wildcats won 12-8 over the Wildcats in its last 19 Jacob Collins Senior WR/DB kickoff returns last season with six and the meeting. 22 Carson Stevens Junior WR/DB most punt returns with three. Sophomore Last season West lost to North Surry in Keyon Rawley will take over the punting the last minute of the game and will look 23 Dakota Barker Junior RB/LB duties. to square off against its former conference 24 Jerry Adkins Senior K OFFENSE foe. Before last season, the Wildcats 26 Caleb Wood Sophomore WR/DB Junior Mason Cain will quarterback the and Greyhounds battled for the WPAC 33 Shelton Blakely Senior SB/OLB Wildcats with Stanley (All-Conference championship each season with one or the 50 Ben Smitherman Senior OL/DL Honorable Mention) and Dakota Barker other winning it. 52 Conner Lankford Junior OL/DL (All-Conference), and Berthrong returning East Surry will be a challenge for the to the offense. Berthrong missed the last young Wildcats, but the teams have battled 53 Zaid Dobson Senior OL/DL three games of the season last year due to in some great games over the past decade. 56 James Spainhour Junior OL/DL injuries and looks to rebound and lead the The Wildcats will return to a conference 58 Orasha Graham Junior OL/DL young offensive team. that features state champions Reidsville and 59 Austin Blackburn Senior OL/DL Joining Cain, Stanley, Barker, and McMichael. West faced Reidsville in the 63 Joseph Leake Junior OL/DL Berthrong on the offensive side are tight West Regional finals in 2019 and is 0-5 all- 72 Bryan Gordon Senior OL/DL end DJ Moore, wide-receivers Jasir Gaye time against the Rams. McMichael is another and Keyon Rawley and offensive linemen crucial game for the Wildcats. West holds a 73 Jullian Mendieta Senior OL/DL Ben Smitherman, James Spainhour, Orasha 9-1 overall record against the Phoenix, but 78 Matthew Gupton Junior OL/DL Graham, Bryan Gordon, Matthew Gupton those games have been close over the years. and Austin Blackburn. Gaye will return SCHEDULE to both sides of the ball after missing last Friday, 8/20 at South Stokes 7:30 p.m. 1937- GENTRY’S STORE FOOTBALL PREVIEW 2021 season. Friday, 8/27 vs. North Surry 7:30 p.m. 2021 Celebrating 84 years of business in downtown King Cain threw for 263 yards and three Thursday, 9/2 at East Surry 7:30 p.m. touchdowns, while Barker led the team with Friday, 9/17 vs. McMichael 7:30 p.m. * We sell lawnmower parts. We stock 323 yards rushing on 46 carries and Stanley Friday, 9/24 vs. Walkertown 7:30 p.m* original and aftermarket parts for ran for 315 yards on 67 carries and four Friday, 10/1 at Morehead 7:30 p.m. * touchdowns. Friday, 10/8 vs. T.W. Andrews 7:30 p.m.* most mowers and much more! “Mason Cain’s play at quarterback will be Friday, 10/15 at Reidsville 7:30 p.m.* Hughes Gentry, Owner a huge factor and how quickly Jasir Gaye Friday, 10/22 at North Forsyth 7:30 p.m.* gets back into football form after being Friday, 10/29 vs. Galax 7:30 p.m. 117 South Main St. • King, NC out last year is going to be important us,” *Conference games added Johnson. “ We need to have Barker 15 and Stanley repeat the success they had last Robert Money can be reached at 336-749-1193. 336-983-3440 70052282 East SurryS16
THE 2021-22 EAST SURRY VARSITY FOOTBALL TEAM
Cory Smith | The Mount Airy News New Look, Same Goal By Cory Smith Derek Sutterby and Jesse Whitaker. selected as defensive players on the All-Con- and defensive back. [email protected] Baker and Whitaker started on the offen- ference team. DEFENSE/SPECIAL TEAMS sive line, and Baker was an All-Conference Tilley was third on the team in tackles East Surry’s defense has a lot of question TEAM selection as a junior and senior. The duo with 50, while also recording 7.0 TFL and marks ahead of week one because the Cardi- East Surry Cardinals helped block for an offense that led the 1A a team-high 5.0 sacks. Tilley also forced nals are still putting things together. COACH division with 4,072 yards of total offense. two fumbles, recovered three fumbles and “We haven’t had one day yet where our Trent Lowman, 35-6 record at East Surry This included 1,824 yards rushing, most of blocked one punt. whole team has been here,” said Cardinal LAST SEASON which came from Bullington, who ran for Needham led the team with six intercep- coach Trent Lowman during the second 9-2 overall, 5-0 conference, Northwest 1,091 yards and scored 20 touchdowns. tions and also had six pass deflections, a week of practice. “The way baseball went 1A Conference Champions, West Regional Bullington received All-Conference Hon- fumble recovery and 37 tackles. all the way through June, then there was Champions, 1AA State Championship Run- ors on offense and defense. He recorded 51 Sutterby was fourth on the team in tackles basketball camp and Young Life camp… ners-up tackles, 6.0 tackles for a loss and 3.0 sacks. with 47, including 2.0 TFL and 4.0 sacks. we’ve had kids out for different reasons and KEY LOSSES Another two-way player, Gosnell, led the Sutterby was also the NW1A Conference haven’t had our full team together yet.” East Surry lost 17 players from its 2020-21 team with 87 tackles, 11.0 TFL and 4.0 Specialist of the Year, hitting 48-of-51 PATs The already-shortened summer vacation roster, seven of which earned All-Conference sacks. On offense, Gosnell had 669 yards re- and 2-of-3 field goals. took away time for every school to have off- Honors: Mackenzie Baker, Luke Bullington, ceiving and seven receiving touchdowns. He Another Cardinal graduate, Carson season workouts. East Surry had even less Benji Gosnell, Tye Needham, Kaleb Tilley, also had three rushing TDs. Hawks, was an All-Conference honorable Needham, Tilley and Sutterby were all mention as a receiver, backup quarterback See CARDINALS | 26
Enjoy a wealth of amenities at an affordable price at the Econo Lodge Inn & Suites® hotel in Pilot Mountain, NC. Our pet-friendly hotel is ideally located three miles from Pilot Mountain State Park Frank Fleming PREVIEW 2021 PREVIEW Body Shop We Work With ALL insurAnce compAnies!
FOOTBALL 2162 SpringS rd. | Mount Airy, nC | 336-786-9244
711 S. Key St. | Pilot Mountain, NC 27041 www.frAnkfleMingbodyShop.org 16 Phone: 336-368-2237 | Fax: 336-368-1212 70052284 70052249 52 51 44 40 36 32 tephen Brantley 30 25 24 uke Brown 23 22 20 19 18 17 16 yle Zinn 15 ayton Allen 14 11 10 rey Armstrong 9 race Tilley 8 5 4 uke Bowman 3 2 1 NO.
EAST SURRY CARDINALS
Best oflucktoourareateams! Cardinals Cardinals NAME Sam Whitt Connor K Delbert P Jose Campos James Dezarn Joshua P Will Jones Eli Beck S Anderson Badgett Anthony A L Isaiah Arrington Joseph Grezmak Gabriel Harpe Jacob L Daniel Creech Matthew K K L Colby Johnson Brett Clayton T T Dylan Co Folger Boaz L
owe
393 CCCamp Rd x arker ey erez
(336) 526-1803 yers eener
YR.. Junior Senior Senior Junior Junior Sophomore Junior Junior Junior Senior Junior Senior Senior Junior Senior Junior Junior Junior Senior Junior Junior Senior Senior Junior Junior Senior Senior
•
•
surreybank.com Elkin, NC28621
POS. OL/DL OL/DL TE/LB RB/LB TE/LB RB/LB WR/DB RB/NG TE/DE WR/DB TE/LB WR/DB WR/DB TE/DE WR/DB WR/DB WR/DB WR/DB RB/DB WR/DB WR/QB/DB RB/DE RB/DB TE/LB RB/LB QB WR/DB
roster 6-0 5-9 6-2 5-11 6-3 5-10 6-3 5-11 6-3 5-11 5-10 6-0 5-8 5-11 5-11 5-10 6-3 6-4 5-11 6-4 5-11 HT .
155 158 175 180 195 170 175 180 185 285 205 250 165 180 150 175 220 165 160 205 160 WT . East SurryS17
70052329 NO. 74 65 64 ole Pruitt 61 60 57 56 55 54 53 82 81 76 75
NAME Anthony W Isaiah Gulledge Ethan Slater Andrew Flippin Elijah Beck K Gavin A Eli Blose Daniel Villasenor Hayden Sammons Doug L Bryson McBride Michael McMillian JT Simmons Mount Airy, NC27030 Since 1994 Dobson, NC 27017 2123 Rockford St (336) 356-2130 (336) 789-4050 710 EAtkinsSt Let uscateryournextevent! Mount Airy
ambert tkins Dobson
ard er
YR.. Junior Junior Senior Junior Senior Junior Sophomore Junior Junior Junior Junior Senior Junior Junior
Pilot Mountain,NC27041
POS. WR/DB WR/DB OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL 511 E52Bypass King, NC27021 (336) 983-0603 (336) 368-1900 Pilot Mountain 105 RetailCir
King
Door Dash. Mayberry available Delivery through Takeout 5-10 6-4 6-2 6-6 6-2 5-11 6-0 6-2 6-4 6-2 5-11 6-2 5-8 HT and .
150 190 360 280 190 215 185 185 290 230 275 180 190 WT
.
70051952
17 2021 PREVIEW FOOTBALL North SurryS18
THE 2021-22 NORTH SURRY VARSITY FOOTBALL TEAM
www.edwardjones.com Your Business Deserves the Same Respect You Give Your Customers At Edward Jones, you’ll get more than respect. We can help yourCory business Smith | The gain Mount a financial Airy News advantage. Together, we can design an individual program for your business, with the kinds of tools and options you’ll really use, such as: • Business Credit Card with Rewards • 401(k)s and Other Retirement Plans The tide is rising• Insurance Strategies for Business Continuation By Cory Smith tal tackles, making him one of two players fumble recovery and four pass deflections. last season,• Wide Range29 players of Investment were underclassOptions - [email protected] in all of N.C. to have at least 103 tackles in DEFENSE/SPECIAL TEAMS men. Evenand Strategieswith most players returning, the only seven games. He also recorded 20 tack- North Surry was one of the biggest come- Hounds are still relatively young with only TEAM les for a loss – tied for third in 2A and tied back stories in the state last season. The six seniors.Call or visit today. for 16th in all state classifications – as well Greyhounds bounced back from an 0-3 start This year’s team consists of the six se- North Surry Greyhounds The creditor and issuer of the Edward Jones MasterCard is Elan Financial as three sacks, two QB hurries, one forced by closing the season with four straight niors,Services, 11 juniors, pursuant nineto a license sophomores from MasterCard and International four Incorpo- Coach rated. MasterCard is a registered trademark of MasterCard International Patrick Taylor, 11-8 record at North Surry fumble and four fumble recoveries. wins, three of which came on the road. freshmen.Incorporated. Six ©of 2014 the Elan returning Financial Services. players All rights were reserved. Montgomery was joined on the offensive The Hounds return 37 players from the named to the All-Conference team, and LAST SEASON Edward Jones operates as an insurance producer in California, New and defensive lines by Jenkins. On defense, spring 2021 season. Of the 43-man roster five Mexico,played and significant Massachusetts through minutes the following on defense:subsidiaries, respec- 4-3 overall, 4-3 conference, Tied for third tively: Edward Jones Insurance Agency of California, L.L.C., Edward Jenkins finished the year with 30 total tack- Jones Insurance Agency of New Mexico, L.L.C., and Edward Jones place in the Western Piedmont 2A Confer- Insurance Agency of Massachusetts, L.L.C. ence les, eight tackles for a loss, four sacks, five KEY LOSSES QB hurries and two forced fumbles. Barry K Revis Montgomery, Jenkins, and Moore helped Financial Advisor North Surry graduated six veteran play- Our clients’ interests come. first. ers in 2021. This included four players that regulate the offensive line. Jenkins had 15 1810 N Bridge St Suite 101 pancake blocks, and Moore had 30. The trio Elkin, NC 28621 were bestowed All-Conference honors their Frank H Beals 336-835-1124 senior season: Rylee Jenkins, Elijah Moore, helped block for the team’s 900+ yards rush- ing and 800+ yards passing. Financial Advisor Go Elks... Tanner Woods and Ty Montgomery. Invest in State Montgomery was named Western Pied- Moore is continuing his academic and PREVIEW 2021 PREVIEW athletic careers with Emory & Henry Col- 965 North Bridge Street Championship! mont 2A Conference Defensive Player of Elkin, NC 28621 the Year in the spring. His 14.9 tackles per lege. game were the fourth-most in N.C.’s 2A di- The final All-Conference senior is wide 336-835-4411 vision, eighth in the state among all classifi- receiver Woods. As a senior, he recorded 22 FOOTBALL cations and tied for 83rd in the nation. catches for 206 yards and five touchdowns. He also played defense in the secondary, Member SIPC Montgomery was fifth in 2A and 12th www.edwardjones.com
18 finishing the year with 23 total tackles, one among all state classifications with 104 to- 70052031 BRT-1941C-A-AD Member SIPC North SurryS19
NORTH SURRY GREYHOUNDS
Jahreece Lynch, Zeke Moore, Jake Sim- operate out of the backfield. Vernon was mons, Ryan Simmons and D’Marcus France. the secondary back last season, but has Lynch and France cover a lot of room in impressed North’s coaching staff with his the secondary. The duo have a deadly com- speed. Brown didn’t play football as a junior, Greyhounds bination of strength and speed, combining but as a sophomore he surpassed the 1,000- for nine pass deflections last season. France yard mark with a combination of rushing is just a sophomore, and Lynch is a junior. and slot receiving. North has no shortage of athletes to play “A lot of people are going to focus on as defensive backs. Talen Vernon, Anthony Jake, and they should, but we’ve got a lot of roster Brown, Trevor Isaacs and James McCreary guys that can make you pay if you overlook are players that Taylor said would have reps them,” Taylor said. NO. NAME POS. YR. in the secondary. Aaron Mauck came in as quarterback 1 Trevor Isaacs SKILL Senior “With these guys we can do a lot of things midway through the spring 2021 season 2 Anthony Brown SKILL Senior in multiple coverages,” Taylor said. “We and improved every week. Mauck ended the 3 Jahreece Lynch SKILL Junior have a lot of versatility on that side of the year with 719 yards passing and 11 touch- 4 Kam McBride SKILL Junior ball.” downs. He was just a sophomore then, and 5 Ryan Simmons SKILL Senior Vernon, Lynch, Brown and France are just Taylor said he’s gotten much sharper in the 6 Jared Hiatt SKILL Junior a few of the names that will also get time last few months. 7 Talan Vernon SKILL Junior on the return unit. Lynch alone scored on a The QB talent doesn’t end with Mauck. 8 Jovanni Flores SKILL Sophomore 42-yard punt return and an 89-yard kickoff Taylor also highlighted James McCreary, 9 Jake Simmons SKILL Sophomore return last season. who will also serve as the North Surry ver- 10 D’Marcus France SKILL Sophomore Ryan and Jake Simmons return as line- sion of Taysom Hill by playing receiver and backers. Ryan is the lone senior in the group, cornerback as well, and promising freshman 11 Colten Allen QB/DB Freshman surrounded by Jake, a sophomore, another Colten Allen. 12 James McCreary QB/DB Junior sophomore Garrett Shore and Kam Mc- The offensive line loses three key pieces 13 Owen McMillian WR/DB Freshman Bride, a junior. Ryan had the second-most in Montgomery, Elijah Moore and Riley Jen- 14 Derrick Simmons WR/DB Freshman tackles of any Greyhound in the spring with kins. Zeke Moore helps fill that gap, as well 18 Matthew Senter SKILL Junior 60, followed by Jake with 45 and McBride as Jace Hernandez, Ty Gwyn, Braden Fore 19 Aaron Mauck SKILL Junior with 35. Ryan also led the team in tackles and Kendall Hawks. 21 Payten Sechrist WR/DB Freshman for a loss with 23. The receiving corps is another area in 50 Ty Gwyn OL/DL Sophomore Moore returns to the defensive line after which the Hounds are overflowing with 54 Braden Fore OL/DL Sophomore a stellar sophomore season earned him All- athletes. Lynch led the team with 480 yards 55 Garrett Shore OL/LB Sophomore Conference Honors. He recorded 30 total receiving and six touchdowns in the spring. 56 Zeke Moore OL/DL Junior tackles, six TFL, one sack, four QB hurries He is expected to be joined by McCreary, and had one fumble recovery in the spring. Ryan Simmons and Trevor Isaacs out wide, 58 Joseph Ravit OL/DL Sophomore “Zeke trimmed off about 35 pounds over Kam McBride in the slot, and players such 59 Harley Felts OL/DL Sophomore the summer,” Taylor said. “It sped him up as Jared Hiatt, Jovanni Flores and Brady 61 Aiden Martin OL/DL Sophomore a lot without compromising strength. He Draughn at tight end. 64 Adam Slate OL/DL Junior leaned up to about 260 pounds. He’s got un- North Surry’s young core started its as- 65 Jace Hernandez OL/DL Junior believable quickness.” cent in the spring and looks to continue that 74 Eli Ramey OL/DL Freshman Moore will be flanked by players such as in the fall. Even with all the players compet- 75 Bryson Wilson OL/DL Senior Jared Hiatt, Jovanni Flores and even Ryan ing for reps, Taylor said he’s not worried 76 Kendall Hawks OL/DL Junior Simmons. Taylor said there are a lot of qual- about how the players might react. 99 Edwin Villegas K Senior ity candidates to rotate in the defensive line “We’ve got such a great group here and Brady Draughn DL/Y Senior and that the team will learn more as the sea- these kids have bought into the fact that it son progresses. takes a team to win a game,” Taylor said. Flores will also serve as kicker when “We talk about it all the time: unity over self. needed, though Edwin Villegas will cover They don’t care who scores or who makes a FOOTBALL PREVIEW 2021 primary kicking duties. Ryan Simmons will big play because they all support each other handle punting. and want to win as a team.” OFFENSE North Surry brought in new coaches in Many of North Surry’s defensive stand- the off-season to help develop the young outs were also recognized on the All-Con- talent. Now, every position group on both ference team on offense as well. offense and defense has an individual coach. Jake Simmons set the North Surry fresh- “Are we still going to be learning this sea- man record with 746 yards rushing on 133 son, absolutely,” Taylor said. “I can’t tell you The Flowers Company carries last season. He also ran in six touch- where we’re going to land, but we are going 979 West Pine Street 336-789-2210 downs. to play hard and get a little bit sharper each North’s run game can hurt you with mul- week. Regardless of how much raw talent Mount Airy, NC 27030 336-789-8217 19 tiple players. Simmons was the star in the spring, but Vernon and Brown will also See GREYHOUNDS | 26 70051948 StarmountS20
STARMOUNT RAMS Young Rams are Ready to Work
By Cory Smith and one touchdown. Grinton considers the Starmount second- there for returning,” Grinton said. [email protected] Holbrook, Armstrong and Stokes were ary to be one of team’s strong suits. Cole- With such a young team, Grinton wasn’t two-way threats on offense and defense. man, a free safety, is joined by players such comfortable giving names at outside line- TEAM Holbrook was a linebacker, Armstrong a de- as Ryan Kimmer and Jayln Adams in the de- backer, saying there were a lot of players Starmount Rams fensive back and Stokes a threat on the of- fensive backfield. under consideration, but did mention two HEAD COACh fensive and defensive lines. Coleman also serves on the return unit. returning players at inside linebacker: Zach Sandy Grinton, 16-18 record at Starmount Pardue and Watson were both linebackers He’s expected to be flanked by juniors Xavier Armstrong and Darren Shore. LAST SEASON as well. Defensive stats were not available King and Mason Moxley, among others. “Both those guys are continuing to grow,” 3-4 overall, 3-4 conference, fifth place in for the 2020-21 season. “We’ll likely switch some people up back See RAMS | 27 the Mountain Valley 1A/2A Conference DEFENSE/SPECIAL TEAMS KEY LOSSES Starmount comes into the 2021-22 season Starmount graduated 13 seniors in the with a lot of youth. After losing 13 seniors spring. Six of those graduates were All- to graduation, the team has just five seniors Family owned and Conference players last season: Sterlin Hol- this season. Three of these seniors are ex- operated since 1957 brook, Denver Stokes, Jelani Powell, Alex pected to be big players on defense. umple Armstrong, Kaden Pardue and Rodney Wat- The team’s only returning All-Conference 2021 Readers’ son. player is senior Davion Coleman, a defen- FURNITURE COMPANY, INC. Choice Award Holbrook led the Rams’ rush-based of- sive back. Coleman was the Rams leader in Winner for fense with 131 carries for 707 yards and five interceptions in the shortened spring 2021 BEST FURNITURE touchdowns. Watson and Armstrong were season. R & BEST MATRESSES! Rumplefurniture.com the second- and third-leading rushers, com- “He’s one of the smartest players I’ve ever FREE [email protected] bining for 70 carries for 294 yards and five been around,” said Starmount coach Sandy DELIVERY! touchdowns. Grinton. “He’s an incredibly hard worker within 336-835-2013 • 888-298-8014 Armstrong also served as the team’s quar- and was voted team captain by the team. 50 mi 1313 North Bridge Street • Elkin, NC 28621 terback, completing 31 passes for 330 yards He’s been a great leader for us.” 70052326
“PROPANE FOR ALL YOUR NEEDS” 1-800-682-5901 Good Luck with your 2021 Season PREVIEW 2021 PREVIEW Good Luck Area Teams! 740 N State St • Yadkinville, NC 27055 FOOTBALL
20 336-679-7000 70026647 BE YOUR BEST! 70052328 StarmountS21
THE 2021-22 STARMOUNT VARSITY FOOTBALL TEAM
Photos provided by Starmount Athletics
THE 2021-22 STARMOUNT JUNIOR VARSITY FOOTBALL TEAM
GOOD LUCK FOOTBALL PREVIEW 2021 TEAMS!!!
1521 North Bridge Street Elkin, NC 28621 336-526-7400
Dine-in Hours: * Monday, Thursday, Friday 11am-8pm
* Saturday 12pm-8pm
* Tuesday, Wednesday 11am-3pm 21 (Tues/Wed. 3-7pm curbside only.) STARMOUNT RAMS 70052327 East WilkesS22
EAST WILKES CARDINALS
Photos by Kristian Russell | The Tribune East Wilkes QB Briggs Gentry (18) fakes a hand-off against Ashe East Wilkes’ Ethan Cass gets set on defense for the Cardinals in a spring 2021 game against Ashe County. County. Cardinals are on the rise By Cory Smith sive players. Weston Brown, Kole Lambert and Titus pass deflections, two fumble recoveries, [email protected] Luffman, a linebacker, led the Car- Miller. Lambert was an All-Conference 41 tackles and 2.0 tackles for a loss. dinals with 64 total tackles in seven honorable mention last season as a de- Weston Brown had the most tackles TEAM games, averaging out to 9.1 per game. fensive back with two interceptions, two of any returning East Wilkes player with East Wilkes Cardinals This included 4.0 tackles for a loss and HEAD COACH 2.0 sacks. Luffman also had one fumble Jonathan Wilmoth, 14-17 record at recovery and an interception. East Wilkes Sidden was a defensive back for East LAST SEASON Wilkes and led the team with four inter- 2-7 overall, 2-5 conference, sixth place ceptions. He also had two pass deflec- in the Mountain Valley 1A/2A Confer- tions and 36 total tackles. ence Spiva helped lead the defensive line Smokeless Tobacco and Glass Products/Accessories , Snuff and Chew, Vapes Low prices on Cigarettes, Tobacco & Smokeless Tobacco, Glass Products, Vapes and Smoking Accessories KEY LOSSES last season. He had 44 total tackles, in- Save Big & Roll Your Own for Around $10 a Carton - We’ve Got Everything You Need! PREVIEW 2021 PREVIEW East Wilkes graduated seven seniors cluding a team-high 8.0 for a loss. He following the 2020-21 season. Three of also had 2.0 sacks and a fumble recovery. Thank you for voting us Best Tobacco Store these graduates were All-Conference se- DEFENSE/SPECIAL TEAMS and Best Vape & CBD Store in lections last season: Bryson Sidden, Da- East Wilkes has a host of young play-
FOOTBALL The Tribune’s 2021 Readers’ Choice Awards!
mion Spiva and Chandlar Luffman. ers looking to fill the spots of the three 950 N. Bridge St. beside Elkin Rescue Squad • (336) 526-0008 All three of these players were select- graduating All-Conference players.
22 Open 9AM-7:30PM Mon - Fri, 9AM-6PM Sat ed to the All-Conference team as defen- Three of its top six tacklers return: 70052325 East WilkesS23
EAST WILKES CARDINALS Cardinals roster
NO. NAME POS.. YR. NO. NAME POS.. YR. 1 Titus Miller Senior 23 Ethan Cass WR, CB Junior 2 Weston Brown WR, FS Junior 32 Easton Martin ATH Junior 3 Anthony Graham WR, FS Junior 50 Hayden Durham ATH Junior 4 Eric Adams ATH Junior 51 Will Martin ATH Junior 5 Brody Martin ATH Junior 52 Tristian Alkire OLB Sophomore 7 Kole Lambert WR Senior 53 Tyler Mash ATH Junior 8 Hank Porter ATH Junior 54 Gavin Dowell MLB, T Junior 10 Briggs Gentry QB Junior 64 Joshua Elmore ATH Senior 15 Brennan Arnder ATH Junior 65 Ryan Sanders ATH Senior 17 Colton Hall ATH Junior 68 Kyle Thompson ATH Junior 21 Kaden Royal RB Sophomore 70 Hunter Caudill ATH Junior
48. As just a sophomore, Brown racked Graham is just one of a host of athletes up 8.0 tackles for a loss, one pass deflec- that can do damage. tion and one forced fumble. Junior Hank Porter will contribute as Miller, another DB, had 31 tackles on placekicker. the year as well as one interception, two OFFENSE pass deflections and two fumble recov- The Cardinal offense returns most of eries. its core from last season. The team will Two returning players that made a big have its leading quarterback, running impact in a short amount of time last back and most of its leading receivers year are Gavin Dowell and Tristian Al- from the spring. kire. Then a sophomore, Dowell played QB Briggs Gentry was thrust into four games for the Cardinals in the the starting role as a sophomore and spring and was a standout middle line- eclipsed the 1,000-yard passing mark backer. Dowell’s 5.8 tackles per game in just seven games. He completed 72 were tied for the fifth-most on the team passes for 1,179 yards and seven touch- and third among returning players. downs as the Cards averaged 168.9 Also recording 5.8 tackles per game yards in the air. Gentry was also the was freshman linebacker Tristian Alkire. team’s second-leading rusher with 42 Alkire played in four games, and in that carries for 66 yards. time he had a forced fumble, 2.0 sacks Leading the ground game was fel- and 6.0 tackles for a loss. low sophomore Brody Martin. Martin FOOTBALL PREVIEW 2021 spring. Miller led the pack with 18 re- East Wilkes joins the Northwest 1A Hayden Durham and Ryan Sanders racked up 30 carries for 220 yards rush- ceptions for 330 yards, followed by Cass Conference after spending the past 12 are two returning members of the Cardi- ing in just his second game as the start- with 16 for 263 and Lambert with nine years in the Mountain Valley 1A/2A nals’ defensive line. Durham’s 7.0 tack- ing running back. He averaged 23 car- for 127. Conference. les for a loss were the second-most on ries for the first four games of the 2021 Graham and Eric Adams are two oth- Before conference play begins in mid- the team last year next to Spiva. As a season and finished the year with 113. ers that could receive reps at receiver. September, the Cardinals play four 2A sophomore, Durham recorded 30 total Martin will be joined in the backfield Players available for the offensive teams: West Wilkes, Surry Central, tackles, 1.0 sack and one fumble recov- by teammates such as Anthony Graham, line include: Ledger Blackburn, Kaden North Wilkes and Wilkes Central. All ery. Sanders finished his junior year Colton Hall and Kaden Royal. Handy, Cody Dowell, Ryan Sanders, three of the Wilkes schools were mem- with 20 total tackles, 1.0 sack and a pass Titus Miller, Ethan Cass and Kole Josh Elmore, Gavin Dowell, Tyler Mash, bers of the MVAC last season. deflection. Lambert were the Cards’ second, third 2
Will Martin and Hayden Durham. East Wilkes opens conference play 3 In the return unit, junior Anthony and fourth-leading receivers in the BIG GAMES See EAST WILKES | 27 ForbushS24
THE 2021-22 FORBUSH VARSITY FOOTBALL TEAM
Forbush Athletics The road to a repeat
By Cory Smith Greeson, Durham and Jordan Ramey mente finished the spring 2021 season games of at least 100 yards rushing. Mat- [email protected] were named to the All-Conference squad with 36 total tackles and three pass de- thews also led the team in rushing TDs on defense. Jordan and Greeson were flections. Another returning DB is Chase with 12. TEAM second and third on the team in total Smitherman, who had two pass deflec- In addition to being a threat in the Forbush Falcons tackles with 43 and 41, and Durham had tions and 23 total tackles last season as ground game, Matthews hauled in 13 HEAD COACH 20 total in five games. The trio combined an All-Conference honorable mention. receptions for 269 yards and two touch- Jeremy Funderburk, 6-1 record at For- for 27.0 tackles for a loss and 6.0 sacks. Anchoring the defensive line is senior downs. bush Martin earned All-Conference Honors Ayden Gardner. Gardner’s 9.0 tackles for Bennett was second on the team last LAST SEASON as a receiver. Martin had a team-high 17 a loss are the most of any returning Fal- season with 65 carries for 466 yards and 6-1 overall, 6-0 conference, Western receptions for 278 yards and three touch- con. He also forced one fumble and had a six touchdowns, including two games of Piedmont 2A Conference Co-Champions, downs. fumble recovery. at least 100 yards rushing. Against North lost in the first round of 2A State Playoffs DEFENSE/SPECIAL TEAMS Wesley Trivette and Luke Hurley are Forsyth last season, Matthews and Ben- KEY LOSSES The Falcons return All-Conference two players that could join Gardner on nett combined for 279 yards rushing and Forbush had an astounding 13 All- players at each position group on de- the DL. four touchdowns. Conference selections and two honorable fense. On special teams, Forbush has 2020-21 Hampton also contributed to the mentions in 2020-21. Five of those All- Linebacker Baylee Ramey led the team All-Conference honorable mention David ground game last season with 12 car- Conference players graduated in May: in tackles last season with 53. Baylee av- Guadarrama. As a sophomore, Guadarra- ries for 145 yards and three touchdowns. Casey Graham, Avery Durham, Jordan eraged 7.6 tackles per game as a junior, ma nailed 27-of-30 PATs and 2-of-5 field Hampton added two receiving TDs and a Ramey, Matthew Greeson and Travon which was 1.5 more than the next-closest goals. punt returned for a touchdown. Martin Falcon player. OFFENSE Trivette is a returning member of the The Falcons quarterback last season, Baylee Ramey is joined by Nate Hamp- Forbush returns five All-Conference offensive line that helped the Falcons PREVIEW 2021 PREVIEW Graham, was named WPAC Offensive ton at linebacker. Hampton, who was an players on offense: Nathan Hampton, rush for 1,521 yards and pass for 1,129 Player of the Year. He finished the year All-Conference selection last season on Derek Matthews, Luke Bennett, Wesley yards in seven games. with 1,019 yards passing and nine pass- offense, led the team with a pair of in- Trivette and Joe Hennings. Hennings was an All-Conference tight ing touchdowns on 70-of-114 comple- terceptions to go with three pass deflec- Matthews and Bennett were the Fal- end with 11 receptions for 153 yards and FOOTBALL tions. Graham also carried the ball 38 tions. cons’ primary running backs in 2020-21. a pair of touchdowns. times for 117 yards and three touch- At defensive back, Forbush returns Matthews led the team with 82 carries BIG GAMES
24 downs. strong safety Devin DiClemente. DiCle- for 614 yards rushing, including three Forbush’s conference championship in ForbushS25
FORBUSH FALCONS CardinalsFalcons roster
NO. NAME POS.. YR. NO. NAME POS.. YR. 1 Luke Bennett RB, DB Sr. 32 Jesse Wooten RB, DE Jr. 2 Bailey Ramey LB, RB Sr. 33 Brandley Luna TE, DE Sr. 3 Chase Smitherman DB, WR Sr. 34 Cristofur Martinez So. 4 Nathan Hampton ATH, RB, DB Sr. 42 Baylee Ramey MLB, FB Sr. 5 Aiden Lyon WR, DB Sr. 44 Regan Ramey RB, TE, LB Jr. 7 Andrew Hutchens QB, DB Jr. 50 Luke Hurley OL, DE Sr. 8 Holden Moxley QB, P So. 52 Wesley Trivette OL, DL Sr. 9 Bradley Bowman WR, DB Sr. 55 Justin Caruth OL, DL Sr. 10 Devin Diclemente WR, DB Sr. 58 Dillon Altice OL, DL Jr. 12 Duke Shouse WR, DB Jr. 62 Ayden Gardner Sr. 15 Joe Hennings TE, DE Sr. 70 Dawson Moser OL, DL Jr. 16 David Guaderrama K Jr. 74 Ezra Hutchens T, NG, NG Jr. 19 Chris Luffman WR, DB Jr. 76 Reece Matthews OL, DL Jr. 20 Ethan Pipes RB, LB Jr. 77 Brady Poindexter OL, DL Jr. 21 Erin Dowd WR, DB Jr. 79 Brandon Martinez OL, DL Sr. 22 Tyler Caudill RB, LB Jr. 24 Derek Matthews ATH, RB, DB Sr. 30 Drake Parker C Fr. Your Headquarters for Yadkin County, Elkin and East Wilkes Sports 2020-21 was the team’s first in 29 years. They look to repeat as they join the Foot- Follow High School Sports Coverage hills 2A Conference. in Print and Online The Falcons have four non-conference games before beginning conference play. This includes the annual Unifi Bowl against rival Starmount on September 3 and a road game at Thomasville the fol- lowing week. 115 S. Jackson St. – Yadkinville | 336.679.2341 Forbush begins conference play with yadkinripple.com a home game against West Wilkes, then stays in Surry County for the next three FOOTBALL PREVIEW 2021 weeks. The Falcons’ first stop is a home game against North Surry, then they trav- el to Surry Central the following week. Friday, 8/27 vs. Trinity 7:30 214 E. Main St. - Elkin | 336.835.1513 On October 15, the defending WPAC Friday, 9/3 vs. Starmount 7:30 elkintribune.com Champs Forbush host the defending Friday, 9/10 @ Thomasville 7:30 Northwest 1A Champion and 1AA State Friday, 9/17 OPEN Runner-up, East Surry. Friday, 9/24 vs. West Wilkes* 7:30 Forbush then closes the season with Friday, 10/1 vs. North Surry* 7:30 road games at North Wilkes and Wilkes Friday, 10/8 @ Surry Central* 7:30 Central. Friday, 10/15 vs. East Surry* 7:30
SCHEDULE Friday, 10/22 @ North Wilkes* 7:30 25 Friday, 10/29 @ Wilkes Central* 7:30 Friday, 8/20 @ North Forsyth 7:30 70052336 *Conference S26
multiple sets of starters in scrimmages and a sophomore, throwing 1,949 yards and 19 welcomes West Stokes after a one-season Cardinals 7-on-7’s to try and get as many players reps touchdowns in nine games. Boaz only tossed break of the Battle for the County Line. The as possible. three interceptions in the spring, and one of teams traditionally play every season, but From page 16 “As far as specific names of starters, we those was in a torrential downpour in his took a break last season due to scheduling time with its baseball team competing in don’t know who they are yet,” Lowman said. first game as QB. conflicts. the baseball state championship that didn’t “They’re going to have to step up and show Boaz also eclipsed 100 yards rushing and East’s rivalry game with North Surry is wrap up until the end of June. Lowman said us they want to be that.” scored two rushing TDs. set for September 24 and is the Cardinals’ the Cardinals only had 10 days of workouts The Cardinals do have a familiar face in Boaz’s favorite target in the spring was second game in the Foothills 2A Conference. planned by the time the baseball season the special teams unit, and that is junior Layton Allen. As a junior, Allen was second Another rivalry renewed after a brief break ended. placekicker Stephen Brantley. Brantley in the 1A division with 716 yards receiving. will take place in the season finale against The Cardinal defense took a big hit after handled kickoffs during the spring and be- He also scored six receiving TDs in his first Surry Central. losing key players the last few months. came an automatic touchback by the end of year as a starter. The Cardinals attempt to win their third- “This is the first year that we don’t return the year. Though Sutterby handled PATs last Allen is the only one of East Surry’s top straight conference title this season, and in a core of starters from multiple regional season, Brantley was able to get some expe- six receivers from last season to return. Low- order to do that will likely have to defeat Wil- championship teams,” Lowman said. “You rience punting. man wasn’t ready to name his starting wide kes Central and Forbush, which both take look at guys like Luke Bullington and Tye OFFENSE outs, but Stephen Brantley, Colby Johnson place on the road. Wilkes Central finished Needham that were multi-year starters that East Surry’s offense returns more familiar and Jacob Lowe are the only returning play- 5-2 in the spring, and Forbush went 6-1 to are now gone.” faces than its defense. ers that caught a pass last season. win the Western Piedmont 2A Conference A young player that did manage to make a The Cardinal starter with the longest ten- Moving to the backfield, the Cards lost Championship. mark on defense in the spring was Kyle Zinn. ure is offensive lineman Sam Whitt. Whitt, their leading rusher in Bullington but re- Not only did East get bumped up to 2A, As a sophomore, Zinn had 35 tackles and 10 now a senior, started in three 1AA State tained the next three. Armstrong served as but the elimination of subdivisions for foot- were for a loss. By playing in just six games, Championship Games and received All-Con- a secondary back to Bullington and averaged ball playoffs works against a school like East. Zinn’s 5.8 tackles per game were the second- ference Honors each of his first three years. 7.9 yards per carry. He was second only to The Cardinals still have the numbers of a most behind Gosnell. He is the only return- He was even named NW1A Conference Co- Bullington in rushing TDs with five. larger 1A school, but were moved up due to ing Cardinal that was an All-Conference se- Offensive Player of the Year in the spring. Next was Luke Bowman with 31 carries success in the Wells Fargo Cup. lection on defense. Many of the “Fat Cowboys” starters grad- for 163 yards. Bowman scored two rushing “We didn’t only go up to 2A, but now we The only other Cardinal to average at uated in 2021, but there are returning play- TDs his junior season. Then Boaz had his run into the chance of playing schools twice least five tackles per game was Brett Clay- ers such as Kole Pruitt that got significant 109 yards rushing and two TDs. our size in playoffs,” Lowman said. “That’s ton, who had 5.0 per game in six games as a experience last season. BIG GAMES two major changes made by the athletic as- sophomore. East Surry is faced with an unfamiliar sit- Though Lowman and the Cards feel a sociation at one time and we got hit with it Players like seniors Luke Bowman, Lay- uation this season, and that is using players little behind where they usually would be at full force. “There wasn’t but about three or ton Allen and Trey Armstrong look to step in the trenches on both sides of the ball. this point, he said he has faith the team will four of us in the state that got hit like this, into Bullington and Needham’s shoes in the “The biggest luxury we’ve had in three put everything together as they go along. but we’re one of them. We’ve just got to do defensive backfield. Armstrong’s three inter- years is that our offensive line and defensive “We’ve got to go with what we’ve got, and what we can.” ceptions were the second-most on the team line was two totally different sets of guys,” I have a feeling that, by the time we get to SCHEDULE behind Needham, and Bowman and Allen Lowman said. “In 1A football, we didn’t our conference, our kids will be in stride and Friday, 8/20 @ Starmount 7:30 were the only other returning players to re- have any of our bigger guys having to play they’ll be right on par with where they nor- Friday, 8/27 vs. Mount Airy 7:30 cord an interception in the spring. both ways. This might be the first year that’s mally are,” he said. Thursday, 9/2 vs. West Stokes 7:30 Allen was second on the team with four not the case. That might change the pace East Surry’s schedule radically changed Friday, 9/10 @ South Stokes 7:30 pass deflections, and joined Armstrong as we play at; we’ve been able to go really fast from the spring to the fall as the Cardinals Friday, 9/17 vs. North Wilkes* 7:30 DB’s to force fumbles. on offense because of that and we may have were promoted to the 2A division. This Friday, 9/24 @ North Surry* 7:30 “There are a lot of holes on defense right to slow down. There will be changes, but I moved the annual rivalry game against Friday, 10/1 @ Wilkes Central* 7:30 now, especially at linebacker, but we’re going think once we grasp those changes and get a Mount Airy to week two. East was Mount Friday, 10/8 OPEN to find some guys that want to run and hit feel I feel confident in our kids.” Airy’s only regular-season loss during the Friday, 10/15 @ Forbush* 7:30 and make tackles,” Lowman said. “We lost Another returning starter on offense is spring, and the game was decided by one Friday, 10/22 vs. West Wilkes* 7:30 some good ones.” quarterback Folger Boaz. Boaz was second score. Friday, 10/29 vs. Surry Central* 7:30 Lowman said the coaching staff has used in the state’s 1A division in yards passing as Six days after hosting Mount Airy, East *Conference
Surry County rivalries continue in week Following a game against reigning North- SCHEDULE Greyhounds three as North hosts Elkin for the Hounds’ west 1A Conference Champion, North trav- Friday, 8/20 @ Mount Airy 7:30 home opener. Elkin finished 6-2 in the els to Forbush to face the most recent West- Friday, 8/27 @ West Stokes 7:30 spring and reached the Elite Eight of the ern Piedmont 2A Conference Champion. From page 19 Friday, 9/3 vs. Elkin 7:30 1A State Playoffs before losing to the even- Forbush went undefeated in the 2020-21 we have, we know we still have to play four tual 1A state champion, Murphy. Elkin’s regular season before falling in the playoffs. Friday, 9/10 OPEN quarters of football and put everything to- five-point loss to Murphy was the closest North plays its last of four Surry County Friday, 9/17 @ Wilkes Central* 7:30 gether – and I’m excited to see it.” anyone got to defeating Murphy throughout opponents, Surry Central, in the next to last PREVIEW 2021 PREVIEW Friday, 9/24 vs. East Surry* 7:30 BIG GAMES the postseason. game of the season. The game will serve as Friday, 10/1 @ Forbush* 7:30 North Surry doesn’t have any time to test The Greyhounds host defending 1AA North’s Senior Night. Friday, 10/8 vs. West Wilkes* 7:30 things out as the Hounds face Mount Airy West Regional Champions East Surry in “This team is going to surprise a lot of week one. The annual Sock Bowl returns Friday, 10/15 vs. North Forsyth 7:30
FOOTBALL week six. This will be the first time in eight people,” Taylor said. “These guys didn’t after a one-year absence. North looks to Friday, 10/22 vs. Surry Central* 7:30 years that the two face off as conference op- even want a week off after the season ended defeat Mount Airy for the first time in 15 ponents, as both are now part of the Foot- earlier this year. They love being around Friday, 10/29 @ North Wilkes* 7:30 26 years. hills 2A Conference. each other and love competing.” *Conference S27
Kimmer and Zack Dezern. Kimmer served Grinton hopes to utilize on offense. Adams’ The Unifi Bowl between Starmount and Rams as the JV quarterback in the spring 2021 only reception in the spring went for 60 Forbush returns after a one-season absence. season. yards and touchdown. The Rams won 11 of the last 13 meetings From page 20 “Luke’s done a pretty good job for us,” Mason Moxley and Xavier King are two against Forbush. Grinton said. “We have some things to fig- more young guys Grinton will plug in at dif- Starmount’s first big test in the Northwest Grinton said. “I’m confident they’ll continue ure out up front to help him get comfortable. ferent positions throughout the season. 1A Conference comes against Mount Airy. developing and impacting the team in a posi- He and Zack are both good options to have Grinton says the offensive line is still de- Starmount defeated the Bears in 2019, but tive way.” at quarterback.” veloping, but has a high ceiling. the Bears won the previous five meetings. Armstrong also returns as the team’s When not playing quarterback, Dezern “We’ve moved some kids around to help Two of the Rams’ toughest conference punter. As a sophomore, he punted eight serves as one of the team’s running backs. on the offensive line, and over time they will games will be on the road against Elkin and times for 274 yards. No decision has been “Zack did a great job this spring and over be very beneficial,” Grinton said. East Wilkes. made on the team’s placekicker. the summer,” Grinton said. “He’s gotten BIG GAMES SCHEDULE Owen Shore returns as a senior member stronger and is a very elusive back. He and Starmount leaves the Mountain Valley Friday, 8/20 vs. East Surry 7:30 of the defensive line. Grinton said he was re- Preston Williams are our two primary run- 1A/2A Conference for the Northwest 1A Friday, 8/27 @ Community School of Da- ally happy with what he’s seen from Owen, ning backs.” Conference this season. vidson 7:30 Caden Abernathy, Steven Sullivan and the Davion Coleman and AJ Pardue are Star- “I am very pleased with the conference Friday, 9/3 @ Forbush 7:30 rest of the guys he’s tried out on the defen- mount’s top receivers. Coleman led the team we’re in,” Grinton said. “I think it will be a Friday, 9/10 @ Pine Lake Prep 7:30 sive line. with 12 receptions for 135 yards last season. very competitive conference and we’ll see Friday, 9/17 OPEN OFFENSE He was also used occasionally in the run what happens.” Friday, 9/24 vs. North Stokes* 7:30 Grinton described the Rams as a “gap game. The Rams play four 2A teams in their Friday, 10/1 vs. Mount Airy* 7:30 scheme-based run team that also utilizes Coleman is the only senior to play a skill non-conference schedule. Three of these Friday, 10/8 @ Elkin* 7:30 play action and some spread concepts in position on offense. Pardue is just a sopho- teams won conference championships in the Friday, 10/15 vs. South Stokes 7:30 passing game.” more, and Grinton hopes he will learn a lot spring: East Surry (Northwest), Pine Lake Friday, 10/22 @ Alleghany* 7:30 Starmount’s two options at quarterback playing opposite Coleman. Prep (Southern Piedmont) and Forbush Friday, 10/29 @ East Wilkes* 7:30 heading into the season are juniors Luke Jayln Adams is another all-around athlete (Western Piedmont). *Conference CardinalsRams roster
NO. NAME POS. YR. HT. WT. NO. NAME POS. YR. HT. WT. 1 Ryan Kimmer ATH Junior 5’ 9” 160 lbs 23 Preston Williams ATH Sophomore 6’ 1” 175 lbs 3 Jalyn Adams ATH Senior 165 lbs 31 Samuel Cheek ATH Senior 6’ 2” 170 lbs 4 Zack Dezern ATH Junior 170 lbs 33 Owen Shore ATH Senior 6’ 0” 225 lbs 5 Mason Moxley ATH Junior 175 lbs 50 Kason Welborn ATH Junior 5’ 10” 165 lbs 6 Luke Kimmer QB, FS Junior 5’ 8” 135 lbs 51 Peyton Swaim ATH Junior 215 lbs 7 Davion Coleman WR, FS Senior 6’ 3” 175 lbs 55 Steven Sullivan DT, C Junior 5’ 10” 200 lbs 8 Xavier King ATH Junior 5’ 11” 56 Zack Armstrong ATH Junior 6’ 2” 225 lbs 15 AJ Pardue ATH Sophomore 6’ 1” 175 lbs 57 Cole Nixon Junior ATH 5’ 7” 145 lbs 17 Darren Shore MLB, SB Junior 5’ 10” 188 lbs 58 Saul Aguilera ATH Junior 275 lbs 19 Holden Wagoner ATH Junior 145 lbs 60 Mason Anthony ATH Sophomore 215 lbs 21 Jared Stokes ATH Senior 5’ 11” 185 lbs 69 Caden Abernethy DT, DE Junior 5’ 6” 185 lbs
22 Brady Fann ATH Junior 150 lbs 76 Samuel Ray ATH Junior 6’ 2” 260 lbs FOOTBALL PREVIEW 2021
East coach Jonathan Wilmoth formerly East Wilkes closes the season against Friday, 9/10 vs. Wilkes Central 7:30 East Wilkes served as an assistant coach at Mount another former MVAC team, Star- Friday, 9/17 vs. Mount Airy* 7:30 Airy, and current Mount Airy coach J.K. mount. East Wilkes defeated the Rams Friday, 9/24 @ Elkin* 7:30 From page 23 Adkins coached at East Wilkes until 2015-18, but Starmount has won the Friday, 10/1 vs. South Stokes* 7:30 with two tough matchups against 2018. past two meetings. Friday, 10/8 @ Alleghany* 7:30 Mount Airy and Elkin. The Cards have Elkin was part of the MVAC with East SCHEDULE Friday, 10/15 @ North Stokes* 7:30 only played Mount Airy five times Wilkes. Although Elkin won the last two Friday, 8/20 vs. West Wilkes 7:30 Friday, 10/22 OPEN since 2004. East Wilkes won the 2004 meetings against East Wilkes, the Cardi- Friday, 8/27 @ Surry Central 7:30 Friday, 10/29 vs. Starmount* 7:30 27 game, but Mount Airy won 2005-2008. nals and Elks are 3-3 in the last six years. Friday, 9/3 @ North Wilkes 7:30 *Conference S28
2021-22 ELKIN VARSITY FOOTBALL TEAM
Photos courtesy of Elkin High School THE 2021-22 ELKIN JUNIOR VARSITY FOOTBALL TEAM
ClassicClassic DesignsDesigns SCREEN PRINTING • T-Shirts PREVIEW 2021 PREVIEW • Hoodies • Athletic Apparel
FOOTBALL • Schools, Churches, 1023 North Bridge Street Businesses Elkin, NC 28621 28 [email protected] 336-835-5157 70052433 ElkinS29
ELKIN BUCKIN’ ELKS Buckin’ Elks ‘hungry’ to play TEAM KEY LOSSES Godbey (RB), Brett Beaver (RB/DB), learned from and we’d like for them to Elkin Buckin’ Elks MVAC Co-Defensive Player of the year Josh Ferguson (OL/DL), Noe Torriente carry on that tradition, but we do have a HEAD COACH Boone Beaver. He averaged 12 tackles (OL/DL), CJ Henderson (OL/DL), Chris lot of spots that we’re trying to fill right Scott Wood, 56-73 record at Elkin per game, with an average of six tackles Probst (OL) and Landon Jackson (DB). now,” said Coach Scott Wood. “These LAST SEASON for a loss. Boone was also named MVAC 2021 SEASON OVERVIEW kids are hungry and they’re ready to play. 6-2 overall, Mountain Valley 1A/2A Punter of the Year. “We’ve got a lot of newcomers this year. We’re filling several spots. We’ve got Conference Runner-Up, lost in second The Elks also lose eight other All-Con- We had a huge senior class last year that round of 1A State Playoffs ference players: Ty Parsons (WR), Jaxon was very successful that this bunch has See ELKIN | 31
From our team to yours...Good Luck Hold the line. Good Luck to all our local student athletes!!! (336) 835-2599 Have a great season and know your friends Visit our lot to View the AdditionAl at State Farm are cheering for you!!! inVentory of CArs & truCks!
Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.® new SaLES STaff: inVentory STEVE WaTSON, JERRy WILLaRD & ZaCk WILLaRD ArriVing NEW fINaNCE SPECIaLIST DEE COX! dAily ! Steve Owings, Agent Warranties available 1332 North Bridge Street on qualified vehicles. 216 WINSTON RD. Elkin, NC 28621 Vehicles to fit JONESVILLE, NC Bus: 336-526-8900 any budget.
70052330 www.supersportsandimportsnc.com
[email protected] 70052324 ALL STUDENT ATHLETES GET 10% OFF THESE PRODUCTS!
Sigvaris Sports Performance Sleeves Peak Your Performance: • Extra-wide comfort top-band Don’t Forget Your Game-Night • Less aching & cramping Tailgate Special! • Stabilizes & diminishes vibrations Tailgate Special: 8 Pc Box, 4 Biscuits, 2 Lg. Sides & 1/2 Gallon Tea Stop The Pain.Feel The Burn! • Targeted pain relief FOOTBALL PREVIEW 2021 Super Tailgate: 12 Pc Box, 6 Biscuits, • Comfortable to wear 3 Lg. Sides & 1/2 Gallon Tea • Stays on in water Jumbo Tailgate: 20 Pc Box, 12 Biscuits, Ask About Your School Colors! 4 Lg. Sides & 1 Gallon Tea Bojangles of Jonesville Available at BRIDGE STREET PHARMACY 817 N. Bridge St., Elkin NC 28621
1652 Hwy 67 – Exit 82 off I-77 (336) 835-3131 29 (336) 835-2991 www.bridgestreetpharmacy.com 70052275 70052334 ElkinS30
ELKIN BUCKIN’ ELKS Buckin’ Elks roster
NO. NAME POS. YR. HT. WT. NO. NAME POS. YR. HT. WT. 2 Jackson Sturdivant QB, FS Jr. 5’10” 160 65 Keenan Kimber OL, DL Sr. 6’2” 333 3 Maecyn Brooks WR, LB Jr. 6’0” 155 72 Logan Wilmoth G Sr. 6’7” 375 4 Noah Flynt CB, WR Sr. 5’9” 155 73 Noah Stuart OL, DL Sr. 5’11” 184 7 Kristian Eades WR, CB Jr. 5’11” 155 76 Wesley Nations OL, DL Jr. 6’4” 209 8 Ryan Nance LB, RB Sr. 6’0” 174 77 Cole Longworth OL, DL Jr. 6’3” 225 9 RaeJay Hincher WR, CB Sr. 5’11” 162 10 Beau Callahan WR, DB Jr. 5’9” 150
12 Satya Rushi WR, DB Sr. 6’0” 175 70052371 14 Landon Bohner WR, CB Sr. 6’2” 169 23 Brandon Vargas WR, FS, SS Sr. 5’8” 145 24 Adam Settle K Jr. 5’8” 145 26 Thomas McComb K, P Sr. 6’2” 155 27 Giancarlo Taglianetti Sr. 5’10” 166 30 Will Briggs LB, RB Jr. 5’6” 135 34 Snow Joe RB, ILB Sr. 6’1” 175 44 Caleb Hemric LB, DL Jr. 5’6” 160 45 Drew Kupner ILB, RB Fr. 6’0” 190 51 James Steele ILB, OL So. 6’0” 175 52 Zach Stuart OL, ILB Fr. 5’8” 190 56 Blain Adams OL, DL Sr. 6’3” 200 Best of Luck to all Athletes. We’re behind you all the way! Elkin Elementary School 135 Old Virginia Road, Elkin 336.835.2756 • ees.elkincityschools.org Voted 2021 Readers' Choice Elkin Middle School Winners for Best Elementary, Best 300 Elk Spur Street, Elkin Middle School and 336.835.3175 • ems.elkincityschools.org Best High School PREVIEW 2021 PREVIEW Elkin High School
FOOTBALL 334 Elk Spur Street, Elkin 336.835.3858 • ehs.elkincityschools.org 30 70052361 ElkinS31
ELKIN BUCKIN’ ELKS Elkin From page 29
some younger kids playing this year and Friday, 9/17 @ North Stokes* 7:30 they’ve just got to step up and fill in the Friday, 9/24 vs. East Wilkes* 7:30 gaps.” Friday, 10/1 vs. Surry Central 7:30 SCHEDULE Friday, 10/8 vs. Starmount* 7:30 Friday, 8/20 vs. North Wilkes 7:30 Friday, 10/15 vs. Alleghany* 7:30 Friday, 8/27 @ West Wilkes 7:30 Friday, 10/22 @ Mount Airy* 7:30 Friday, 9/3 @ North Surry 7:30 Friday, 10/29 @ South Stokes* 7:30 Friday, 9/10 OPEN *Conference David T. Smith, Owner 132 Bluff St. Jonesville, NC 28642 Cell: (336) 468-0075 Phone: (336) 526-0028 Fax: (336) 526-0029
70052332
Jim Doll LUTCF, Agent
Auto • Home Greg Sidden • Life • Health LUTCF, Agency Manager FOOTBALL PREVIEW 2021 • Bank 105 Winston Rd, Jonesville, NC 28642
336/526-4600 Mitchell Hodges www.ncfbins.com Agent 31 70052276 70052323 S32 PREVIEW 2021 PREVIEW FOOTBALL
32 70051797