2 Football Guide, August 23, 2012 Denham aims for district, dome Jacket seniors ready to pound Pinto playoffs DENHAM SPRINGS – In his seventh year as head coach of the Yellow Jackets, Dru Nettles is not only itching for his program to win a playoff game, but for them to take what has now been four years of consistency to an even greater level of success. “We’d like our furthest trip this season to be to New Orleans (championship game),” said Nettles. “But the first thing we’re going talk about is getting through the season, compet- ing for the district championship and putting ourselves in position to once again make the playoffs.” DSHS not only set a school football record by David Normand | The News making its fourth straight playoff appearance The 2012 Denham Springs High Yellow Jacket coaching staff group photo from picture day includes (front row, from left) last season, the Yellow Jackets also shared A. J. Hebert, Jason Wilkins, Eddie Pleasant, Mitch Covington, Dru Nettles, Trase Satcher, Justin Wax, David Bourque and Robert Graves. Standing are Gary Burnett, Josh Neal, Josh Martin, Kade Keowen, Joey Chustz, Mark Carroll, Rusty Bar- DENHAM rilleaux, Lyn Ducote and Bob Ingalls. Page 4 Football 2012 ___I Contents 2 11 16 18 Advertisers Denham Springs gears up for Live Oak has a new coach and Springfield expects to build The Saints are full of hope a run at a fifth straight playoff a young team, but believes it on its 2011 playoff season as they embark on what will Acadian Ambulance, Big Mike’s, season. can compete now. with a run at a district title and surely be one of the strangest Boyer, Hebert, Abels & An- beyond. seasons in NFL history. gelle, Dale Erdey, Layton Ricks, Livingston Parish Convention 8 14 and Visitors Bureau, North Oaks Walker expects bigger things Albany relies on senior 20 Health System, Our Lady of the 13 LSU deals begins at home Lake Regional Medical Center, in the second season of head quarterback Louis Sansovich in Toughness was the name of with high hopes once again of Coach Dwayne Severio. its tough 3A league. the game back in the 1960s Ruth Cook School, Sherman winning the SEC and reaching Mack, Skid Marks Tire & Auto, when every ball player had to the BCS championship game. endure “the pit.” Sport N Center

Pictured on the cover is action from the pre-season scrim- ing a screen pass from quarterback Brady Morris. Live Oak's CREDITS: Albany, Denham Springs, Live Oak, Springfield, WALKER mage between Live Oak and Albany. On this Play, Live Oak's Wesley Fuller blocks out Albany's Alex Vallo. The photo is by Articles — Sam Muffoletto, Jim Spring photos — David Normand Kyle Adams (15) takes off for 26-yard touchdown after catch- David Normand. Cover — Paul Hatton ADDITIONAL photos SUBMITTED Football Guide, August 23, 2012 3 4 Football Guide, August 23, 2012 Tough schedule chosen to prepare Denham for playoffs

From 2 wins and got into the playoffs with a mid-20’s power-point ranking. But the district title in the always tough we can be in the top 16 where we can District 4-5A. host that first playoff game. Yet for the second time in three “I feel like we scheduled some re- years, a first-round playoff trip to ally good and quality programs in north Louisiana ended the Jackets’ the non-district that will prepare us season at 7-4. Denham Springs has for district and beyond,” said Nettles. yet to host a playoff game under “If things go well, we get a break Ayres Bracy Miller Gautreaux Benton Guillot Nettles’ tenure, sandwiching a pair or two and some things go our way, of losing trips to Ruston with a first- we’ll be successful this season.” round loss in New Orleans and a Injuries played havoc on Denham’s shorter losing trip to Baton Rouge in season a year ago, especially with a bi-district setback to Catholic High. the loss of standout tailback Kaleb “I feel if the guys continue to push Blanchard for the better part of the hard and make a run at going deep, year. we’ll be where we want to be at the end of the season,” said Nettles. DENHAM Dugas Spear McKey Dugas McClendon Matherne “We’ve made the playoffs with seven Page 6

David Normand | The News The 2012 Denham Springs High football team are (front row, from left) Jason Wilkins, Josh Neal, Trase Satcher, Justin Wax, Kade Keowen, Joey Chustz, Dru Nettles, Mark Carroll, Rusty Barrilleaux, Josh Martin, Lyn Ducote, Mitch Covington, David Bourque and Robert Graves. Second row are Eddie Pleasant, A. J. Hebert, Carlton Taylor, Joell Kimble, Joseph Westbrook, Alex Payne, Lane Foster, Joel Murtes, Clayton Comeaux, Dustin Levert, George White and David McKey, Gary Burnett and Bob Ingalls. Third row are Matt Glover, Tony Henriquez, Austin Robichaux, Hunter Hodges, Anthony Bracy, Tanner Cloutre, Justin Martin, Jabaris Thompson, Jonathen Russo, Bryon Bujol, Jacob Duplantis, James Holladay, Kyandre Brooks, D.J. Robinson and Darrell Washington. Fourth row are Blake Farlow, David Wale, Kade McKee, Garrett Osborne, Garrett Matherne, Jesse Wall, Conner Chatelain, Logan Landry, Nick Kozak, Cody Prest, Ronnie Watkins, Keaton Atwell, Tra Pinion, Nolan Satcher and Andrew Ayres. Fifth row are Brian Benton, Bryce Dugas, Devin Dugas, Matt Erwin, Cody Brown, Wes Brown, Trevon Dickson, Hunter Holmes, Kip Hernandez, Dylan Cambre, Hunter Langlois, Jay Sabol, Brandon Geautreaux, Barclay Miller and Kyler Camp- bell. Top row are Ty Miller, Dimitri Garner, Zach Taylor, Kaleb Blanchard, Brody Guillot, Travis Hasselbeck, Kyle Thames, Tevin Lawson, Jon Henderson, Zach Borne, Tyler Curtis, Jake Williams, Drew McClendon, Sterling Suggs, Mac Sceroler and Cole Spear. Football Guide, August 23, 2012 5

Photo by Musemeche Photography The 2012 Denham Springs High School Yellow Jackets JV team are (front row, from left) Desmond Hall, Josh Baker, Jonathan Ingalls, Myles Johnson, Zach Alimia, BJ Arm- strong, Bryce Chandler and Jacob Faust. Second row are Ashton Martin, Beau Grasse, Jalen Nicholas, Jason Musgrove, Brennan Foster, Cody Collins,Ray Walding, Chris Roddy, Anthoney Deluca, Colby Hayman, Luke Duplantis and Isiah Shoemake. Third row are John Henry, Vaughn Brasseaux, Seth Jacobs, Jeremy Lindberg, Brennan Mire, Chase Albin, Tanner Magee, Jonah Overland, Elton Knight, Dominique Jackson, Brett Ahlf and William Campbell. Top row are Eli Cawthon, Matthew Evans, Grant Griffin, Chance Haydel, Tyler O'Donoghue,Bailey Waldrop, Jake Barber, Christian Cuellar, Taylor White, Bailey Holstein, Zach Mayo, Corey Higginbotham, Ross Olinde and Justin Irby. 6 Football Guide, August 23, 2012 Denham has multiple weapons running and passing

From 4 Bracy, a first-team All-Parish selection a year ago, rushed for 737 Blanchard is healthy heading into this season, yards (4.8 avg.) and 10 touchdowns but Nettles is confident he’ll be part of an excellent and also caught 10 passes for 78 cast with an array of offensive talent that gained yards. an abundance of experience last year. Up front on the line, the Jack- “Kaleb is a talented back, but we also have three ets return four starters in senior other guys with experience at that position,” said guards Tevin Lawson (6-4, 270), an Nettles. “We’re a two-back team and we feel like LSU commitment, who was also Holmes Williams Martin Blanchard Hernandez we can run the football. But we also feel like we moved to the defensive side of the have some talented receivers who can catch the ball last season, along with senior football.” guard Hunter Holmes (5-11, 265). The Jackets exited the spring with three quarter- Seniors Kip Hernandez (6-0, 250) backs vying to fill the shoes of departing first-team and Travis Hasselbeck (6-1, 295) are All-Parish sigal-caller Kyle Cedotal. They include the returning tackles, while junior senior Zach Borne (6-2, 190), who is also a standout Dylan Cambre (6-0, 275) has taken wide receiver, junior Brandon Gautreaux (6-0, 165) over the center duties and sopho- and sophomore Matt Erwin (5-11, 170). more Jon Henderson (6-6, 340) is Erwin Suggs Lawson Hasselback Borne Along with Borne, senior Zach Taylor expected to step in and put in qual- (6-1, 190) and senior returning starter Sterling ity time on the line as well. line. Suggs (6-3, 215 TE-WR) should be impact players “Our offensive line is the anchor to this team,” Joining the All-Parish first-teamer and future for the Yellow Jackets in their passing game. said Nettles. “We’re led by a two-year all-district Tiger up front is returning starter Barclay Miller But true to so many Denham Springs teams in player in Hunter Holmes. Our offensive line surge (6-1, 230), while senior Brody Guillot (6-2, 235) the past, the core of the Yellow Jackets’ offense will be a big key to the success of our season.” rounds out the guys in the trenches. lies on the ground, beginning with the senior Senior David McKey is back as the Yellow Jack- The Jackets return senior Drew McClendon (6-1, Blanchard (6-1, 210), along with senior returning ets’ place-kicker, while Sterling Suggs returns to 205) at end. tailback Justin Martin (5-9, 185) and the speedy handle the punting chores. and shifty returning junior back Anthony Bracy Denham Springs’ 4-2-5 formation defense returns DENHAM (5-8, 185). eight starters, spearheaded by Lawson on the front Page 7 Football Guide, August 23, 2012 7 Denham District 4-5A features DENHAM SPRINGS Aug. 31 Broadmoor depth Sept. 7 Woodlawn From 6 Sept. 14 at Catholic Sept. 21 Rummel Denham returns all three starting line- Sept. 28 at East Ascension backers from a year ago, seniors Devin Dugas (6-0, 220), Brian Benton (5-11, 205 and Jake Oct. 5 Scotlandville* Williams (6-1, 195). Oct. 11 Live Oak* In the secondary, the Yellow Jackets have Oct. 18 at Central* returnees Andrew Ayres (5-11, 170) and Bryce Dugas (5-11, 170), both seniors, along with ju- Oct. 26 Walker* nior Garrett Osborne (5-11, 190) and two-way Nov. 2 at Zachary* player Justin Martin. “You’re always going to have ups and downs during a season, but I feel like we have the *District game foundation and experience to handle that,” said Nettles. “We have the senior leadership to handle that and the opportunity to have a good season. “We do have a new quarterback, but we have a seasoned line, great running back depth and defense with an abundance of re- turning starters,” said Nettles. “It’s one of the older groups we’ve ever had.” DSHS remains in District 4-5A along with two other parish teams, Walker and Live Oak, archrival and co-district champions Central, Senior running back Kaleb Blanchard hopes to return this season to as well as Zachary and Scotlandville. record-setting form. 8 Football Guide, August 23, 2012

David Normand | The News The 2012 Walker High School Wildcat football team are (front row, from left) Nathan Borget, ATC; Jason Kimbal, Erik Peterson, James Roberts, Donnie Goodson, Gary Coates, Dwayne Severio, Walker High head coach; Terry Peters, Randy Sandifer, Aaron Clark, Daniel Desselle, John Compton, Tim Ard and Erika Chauser, ATC. Second row are Jordan Lefebvre, Derek Leger, Tyler Hunt, Antonio, Lee, Garrett Madere, Saadio Ellis, Kenny Thomas, Daniel El Hamev, Chase Corley, Casey Childers, Derek Bartholomew, Seth Jones, Jordan Folks, Colby Sterling, Zach Miller, Sage Brumley and Austin McMorris, manager. Third row are Kody Howell, Garrett, Cotton, Tristen Jenkins, Slade Madden, Dalton Yucesoy, Tyrico Felder, Brett Usey, Austen Lemoine, Justin Miller, Joey Herandez, Lloyd Bennett, Tyler Lockhart, Seth Blevins, Ladrain Talbert, Tyler Guilliot, Sam Woods and Mandon Clarke. Fourth row are Thomas Byers, William Oubre, Justin Perry, Joley Garner, Pierre Gant, Brennen Andeerson, Josh Gibbons, Steven Henry, Norman Barnett, Preston Chaney, Austin Drury, Wyatt Wales, Garrett Jones, Taylor Brown, Shedrick Terrell, D'Antonio Daigre and Randy Alphonso. Fifth row are Hunter Chaney, Carlton Perkins, Jeffrey Johnson, Adam McGraw, Walker Bishop, Shea Meliet, Taylor Sharp, Laryy Garlaski, Brice Brown, Tate Sibley, Christian Norton, Joshua Love, Rendell Stovall, Colton Romito, Labrodrick Young, Trevor Miller and Gabriel Lagos. Top are Taylor Bowden, Tyler Rosado, Matthew Graham, Benjamin Murray-West, Jeremy Harvey, Josh Stovall, Mark Finch, James Swetledge, Austin Smith, Shane Carpenter, Caleb McCarter, Samuel Montgomery, Tylor Miller, Jacob Arnold, Ben Imme, Kyle Nevels, James Hardison, Greg Cotten and Christian Moore. Maturing Walker ready to compete

tailback Second-year coach Carlton Perkins, sees strides in who rushed for 1,807 yards (8.1 program avg.) and 24 Smith Imme Brown Perkins Moore Yucesoy Lagos Cotten touchdowns last season, P while WALKER – The Wildcats may have a pulling in headline player, but for second-year another 15 head coach DeWayne Severio, the suc- receptions cess of this season just may lie in the for 181 small print. yards (12.1 “Our big focus this year has been avg.) and attention to detail,” said Severio. “That one touch- will either get us in the playoffs or Hardison Johnson Thomas Driver Young Graham Chaney Montgomery down. keep us from going to the playoffs. We “He’s (Per- have to take it every drill, every play The last time Walker was in the defensive coordinator. and every practice with that attention playoffs was back when the Wildcats One player that will draw constant WALKER to details.” were in Class 4A and Severio was the close attention from oponents is senior Page 9 Football Guide, August 23, 2012 9 Walker looks for diversity beyond MVP Perkins

From 8 join him in that position, Brice Brown (6-1, 165), Tyler Hunt (5-7, kins) a dynamic running back,” 160) and Kenny Thomas (5-8, said Severio. “But he’s also good 150). with his hands as a receiver. He Walker’s offensive front is will also be called on to play on led by three returning start- both sides of the ball as a sec- ers from a year ago, including ondary player on defense.” junior Wyatt Wales (5-11, 245) Perkins was the Livingston at center. Other returnees are Parish “Most Valuable Player” senior guard Ben Imme (6-0, last year. 255) and junior tackle Shane “We have speed, but it’s going Carpenter (6-6, 260). to come down to executing,” Rounding out the offensive said Severio. “Our quarterback line is senior guard Trevor (Tyler Lockhart) started 10 Miller (6-0, 255) and a pair of games for us last year, while junior tackles, Jeffrey Johnson our receivers are skilled and (5-11, 260) or Jacob Arnold (6-4, capable of making big plays.” 260). The junior Lockhart (5-9, 170) “Even though we don’t techni- spearheads the one-back set for cally have a lot of returning the Wildcats, while Perkins is starters, we do return a lot of backed up at the tailback slot by lettermen on both sides of the David Normand | The News junior Labrokeric Young (6-1, ball,” said Severio. The 2012 Walker High School Wildcat coaching staff are (front row, from left) Terry Peters, Gary 190). “Defensively, we have five Coates, Dwayne Severio, Daniel Deselle, and Aaron Clark. Standing are James Roberts, Jason Kim- Senior Sam Montgomery (6-3, returning starters, along with a bal, Tim Ard, John Compton, Erik Peterson and Donnie Goodson. 175) is a starting returnee at WALKER split end, while a trio of juniors Page 10 10 Football Guide, August 23, 2012 Walker develops more depth, battles for playing time

From 9 District 4-5A lot of players who played a good WALKER bit last season,’ said Severio. “We’ve got some quality people Aug. 31 at St. Michael on our defense coming back. Sept. 7 Broadmoor “We’re going to have a mul- Sept. 14 East Ascension tiple-40 look on defense,” said Severio. “We’re two-deep and Sept. 21 Riverdale Carpenter Sibley Bowden Brown Miller have three battling every day Sept. 28 West St. Mary for inside positions, while we Oct. 5 at Live Oak* have a number as well battling at the linebackers spots, where Oct. 12 Central* we lost three starters from last Oct. 19 at Zachary* year.” Oct. 26 at Denham Springs* The defensive front has three returning starters in Tyler Ro- Nov. 2 Scotlandville* sado and Austin Smith at ends *Ditrict game and Taylor Bowden at tackle. Hunt Lockhart Rosado Felder Wales Gabe Lagos and Christian Moore will also see action at the Wildcat secondary will be 175). in the off-season,” said Severio. well. We’re moving in the right tackle. spearheaded by Perkins and re- C.J. Johnson will handle the ‘We had a great spring and direction.” The linebacking corps con- turning junior corner Matthew punting chores, while soccer summer in the weight room. Walker, which is coming off sists of senior Dalton Yousey Graham (6-0, 165). The remain- players Steven Henry and “We’re just trying to continue a 3-7 season a year ago, remain (5-10, 175), junior Labrderick ing defensive backs are seniors Mark Finch are vying for the to change the culture here and in District 4-5A, along with Young (6-1, 190), Talor Brown Tate Sibley (5-11, 170), Preston placekicking duties. get the players to buy-into what Denham Springs, Live Oak, (6-0, 190) and sophomore Gar- Chaney (5-7, 150) , Kody Howell “Our coachers and players we’re doing,” said Severio. “So Central, Zachary and Scot- rett Jones (5-11, 190), while (5-8, 170) and Jordan Folks (5-6, have worked extremely hard far, everything is really going landville. Football Guide, August 23, 2012 11 New-look Live Oak lurking

But try selling a senior on a three- 1st year coach year plan. “You don’t give yourself or your expects immediate staff a pass,” said Musemeche. “If you’re good enough to win now, you win now. Period. There is no excuse results for it being a first year. “We should compete better,” said Williams Zachary Brock Wheeler Kelly Gerage Musemeche. “We have some talent. WATSON – BarryP “Tut” Musemeche I’ve never coached a defense before takes over the reins at Live Oak this that’s as fast as the one we have. But season, and the last thing he’s look- we need to play like it. ing for is excuses. “The kids have worked strength- “I feel like we’re good enough to wise and they’ve worked speed-wise,” compete now,” said Musemeche. “It would be easy for me to say that it’s LIVE OAK going to take three, four or five years. Page 19 Ricard Lockhart Williams Price Guidry Webb

David Normand | The News The 2012 Live Oak High Eagles football team (front row, front row) are Colt Olinde, Dustin Kimble, Joshua Stafford, Christian Kesler, Mitchell Stelly, Jacob White, Devan Ben- nett, Clay Chauvin, Kirk Allen and Zack Shepherd. Second row are Luke Andrepont, Jordan Alford, Blaze Kinchen, Jarred Forest, Brandon Chenevert, Brandt Wheeler, Johnathan Guidry, Garrett Lee, Matthew Arnold, Gage Lockhart, Justin Webb, Austin Zachary, Jules laird and Tyler McCleary. Third row are Connor Mason, Justin Arnold, Dan Ricard, Brady Morris, Kenneth Nickles, Nick Zewe, Curtis Davies, Dylan Hutchinson, Austin Barber, Austin Page, Tristan Penton, Dakota Lang, Patrick Rafeedie, Cody Boniol and Erik Troxclair. Fourth row are Chris Kelly, Michael Claverie, Jarrett Williams, Lance Andre, Dustin Hutchinson, Kyle Adams, Sheldon Rogers, Wesley Fuller, Ryan Wood, Nick Simoneaux, Chan- dler LeGrange, Cody Gauthier, Beau Bergeron and Antonio Williams . Top row are Nick McDowell, Cody McDuffie, Kade Freeman, Chris Mury, Colby Freneaux, Ryan Kimball, Con- nor Gerage, Collin Jones, Blake Brock, Jordan Hebert, Jesse Price, Chris McInnis, Luke Dahlbere, Brendon Charbonnett, Hunter Hutchinson and Wesley Howard. 12 Football Guide, August 23, 2012 Football Guide, August 23, 2012 13 Don’t throw me in that briar patch

ing it would not be my older When young brother who was one of the team studs. By the time my senior year arrived, I remem- men tested ber counting again but only to switch places in line if my op- their manhood ponent was a younger kid. As that great player, Sir Winston Churchill, in ‘the pit’ Former Denham Springs once said, “When you must High School star Jim Spring, kill a man, it costs nothing to pictured above as a fresh- be polite.” Indeed, there was P man, writes about his expe- room for civility in football as By Jim Spring riences at gridiron practice well. Special to the News when protective equipment Thus was the Spartan cli- “Lads, you’re not to miss was not quite as advanced mate in which many southern practice unless your par- as today. He went on to letter boys prepared themselves for ents died or you died.” for three years at Tulane Uni- gridiron glory. — Coach Frank Leahy versity. Now a retired Army During a recent visit to Notre Dame University colonel, he is a writer who is the site where the sawdust pit active in promoting Denham once steeled our courage, my rugged era of football Springs High School Athlet- thoughts were flooded with ended in the early ics. He is presently secretary memories so vivid I could A1960s when broken of the Denham Springs High almost hear the crack of Rid- noses became passé with the School Athletic Association dell shoulder pads rocketing introduction of the cage face and president of the local against one another and the mask. Prior to that a single chapter of Fellowship of swoosh of air rushing from plastic bar protected the hand- Christian Athletes. some teenage boy’s chest. some good looks of high school Then I recalled the signifi- players nationwide. Depend- spread from town to town was an innocent landmark they bellowed the words cance of the briar patch. ing on whether a boy valued about these gut-check drills, filled with sawdust, situ- “fresh meat” at us, smugly It wasn’t guaranteed to his electric smile more than probably conceived by bored ated behind the scoreboard secure in their bigger, faster, happen every Wednesday, the natural contour of his coaches during P.E. class. It at the far end zone where more muscular bodies that but when it did, what a thing shapely nose, he could adjust was a matter of team pride pole vaulters practiced their were three or four years more of beauty! Our coaches lived the angle of the bar to protect that yours evoked the most lore. Just ten feet from the mature than our own. If you for the perfect tackle, since it one or the other, but every kid fear and awe. One neigh- pit was a wooded area made were a freshman with pimples was the embodiment of their had to make a choice. That boring school installed an impenetrable by a thicket of and skinny legs, by fifth pe- coaching skill on display was just part of the game. overhead cage system about saw-tooth briars that stood riod on Wednesday you were before their very eyes. The Some players exercised a four feet above the ground, shoulder high. busy plotting how to avoid the perfect tackle required explo- certain illogic by deciding to attached to thick metal poles, In our fertile imaginations, certain massacre awaiting sive leg thrust by the tackler, split the difference, failing to that forced offensive line- by the time two-a-day prac- that afternoon. striking the opponent in the appreciate that a well placed men to keep a low profile tices began in mid-August, This basic football drill, mid-section with such force forearm delivered to either while blocking. According to this otherwise benign set- when cloaked in the aura of that his body draped over the target could cause the loss of a legend, the turf soon became ting had morphed into a hell the sawdust pit, produced the tackler’s right shoulder. With girlfriend overnight. Not that littered with the inert bodies hole where broken limbs and most injuries and prompted the tackler’s hands locked be- anyone would envy a broken of wounded players left uncon- busted kneecaps were com- the most boys to quit the hind the opponent’s knees, the nose, still there was a level scious by misguided collisions monplace, where blood flowed team. Yet, it was a rite of pas- sheer velocity of the collision of respect afforded to those with the metal poles. with abandon and empty sage through which players propelled them straight into so blessed. In sweaty locker Lacking the resources caskets were poised beside acquired machismo, a neces- … the saw-tooth briars. rooms throughout the south, it to erect such an elaborate the briar patch to accept the sary evil that assured ner- With every eye on these was a badge of honor to regale structure, our coaches remains of martyred warriors vous underclassmen that they heroic figures, a thunderous the less fortunate with heroic contributed to the mystique found wanting. You see, the too would develop a “love for roar would erupt from both tales of how you were awarded of the crucible by implement- pit was the dreaded site where contact” by staying the course players and coaches, taken your first broken nose. ing a simple but menac- we were schooled in the fine through this baptism of fire. aback by what they had just In those days every high ing tradition. In a ritual art of head-on tackling. I recall as a freshman stand- witnessed. Unlike an aver- school could boast of its own designed to test the team’s As an underclassman the ing in line on one side of the age tackle, by definition the crucible of courage, where testosterone level, the Yellow dread was twofold, rooted in pit, staring across the sawdust perfect tackle always ended adolescent boys with acne Jackets ended practice every the risk of self-humiliation at the opposing line, franti- emerged on the other side Wednesday at “the pit.” and in the palpable fear of cally counting to determine BRIAR PATCH as young gladiators. Word During springtime the pit seniors whose necks bulged as who I would be facing, hop- Page 17 14 Football Guide, August 23, 2012 Albany hopes ride on senior QB

He makes us tick, not only with his Hornets plan to talent, but with his leadership.” “What people don’t realize is, even though Sansovich had nearly 1,200 feature stable of yards on the ground last year, we had three running backs that ac- counted for over 1,800 more yards on running backs too the ground. Nicolosi Arnold Lavergne Lavergne Callahan Lemmons “We’d like to run the football 70 percent of the time,” said Ficklin. “If P we can do that, we probably have the ALBANY – Despite losing a big chunk lead and will have success. of its upfront players, Albany is “But we have to use all the guys on hoping to rebuild around the core offense,” said Ficklin. “If we can play nucleus of its offense, senior quarter- with consistency, we’ll be okay. back Louis Sansovich. “But most importantly, we’ve got to The three-year starter threw for make third-down conversions,” said 1,403 yards (88 of 210) last season, Ficklin. “We had a problem last year Hill Sansovich Murphy House Broadway Smith but the first-team all-district and with not making those third downs second-team all-parish signal-caller and exiting the field too soon, too Both Nicolosi and Roach were who both have that breakaway also rushed for 1,184 yards on 180 often.” second-team all-district selections in speed.” keepers. Running options behind the 6-foot 2011. The offensive line will be anchored “He’s a phenomenal player,” said Sansovich will included a trio senior “Brandon’s a great back with speed by senior center Dakota Arnold (5- head Coach Brad Ficklin. “But also tailbacks in Branson Nicolosi (5-9, and moves,” said Ficklin. “But we a great kid, an outstanding leader. 160), Dalton Roach (6-0, 175) and An- also a freshman in Randy Ingram, as ALBANY Everything you’d want in a player. thony Love (6-0, 150). well as Bryce Wells and Tyler Smith, Page 15 Football Guide, August 23, 2012 15

David Normand | The News The 2012 Albany High School Hornets football team are (front row, from left) Dathan Kinchen, Brian Dickerson, Thomas Broadway, Anthony Love, Rodrick Pool, Justin Thomp- son, Luke Callahan, Thomas Aguirre,Tanner House, Blake Anthony and Louis Sansovich. Second row are Chris Longmire, Ryan Hughes, Elijah Callahan, Hunter McKinley, Dylan Kinchen, Randy Ingram, Bryce Wells, Branson Nicolosi and Bryaus Ott. Third row are Tyler Smith, Zach Gonzales, Cody Miller, Connor Sullivan, Kyle Thompson, Dustin Swindle, Vic Tailla, Daniel Johnson, Dennis Lavergne, Austin Kinchen and Verone Brown. Fourth row are Dustin Stine, Austin Craig, Lewis Watkins, Roger Murphy, Johnathon Weedman, Trey Arnone and Jordan Blades. Fifth row are Kolby Hill, Kyle Robinson, Bryant Wright, Dakota Arnold, Zach O'Brien, Zachary Dennis, Adolfo Lopez, Kain Lemons and Nathan Corkern. Top row are Brad Ficklin, Albany High head football coach; Dustin Lavernge, Alex Vallo, Dylan Palmer and Nathan Callahan, manager. Not pictured are Dalton Roach, Steven Fontenot and Justin Cuccia. Albany defense returns seven starters

From 14 Junior Kyle Thompson is expected to handle the Albany is coming off a 5-5 campaign in 2011, punting chores for the Hornets. although the Hornets did not make the playoffs. 10, 260), a second-team all-district player a year Defensively, the Hornets will be in a 3-4 package, The Hornets remain in District 8-3A, along with ago, senior guard Kain Lemons (5-8, 255), junior with a bit more experience than the offense with Amite, Independence, Loranger, Jewel Sumner second-team all-district guard Dennis Lavergne seven returning starters. and Bogalusa. (5-10, 265), and a pair of sophomore tackles, Roger Upfront will be senior two-way player Arnold at “Of course, we have to avoid injuries,” said Fick- Murphy (5-11, 2050 and Zachary Dennis (6-0, 280). tackle, while the bookends will be two more two- lin, who enters his sixth season at the helm of the “We’re a lot stronger and we play better togeth- way players in Lavernge and Lemons. Hornets. “The injury bug cannot bite us. I have a er,” said Ficklin. “They understand if we’re going Callahan, Roach, Kyle Thompson (5-10, 170) and bunch of great kids. A very hard-working team. to doing something up front, it’s going to take sophomore Tyler Smith (5-10, 170) will handle the If they continue to grow as a team, get experience them doing it.” linebacking positions, while the secondary will and add to our depth, we’ll have a good season.” Also a major part in Albany’s spread offense consist of some offensive playmakers, House (DB), will be junior returning split end Tanner House Nicolosi (free safety) and Sansovich (corner). (5-10, 155) and junior tight end Elijah Callahan Freshman Randy Ingram is also expected to ALBANY SCHEDULE (6-1, 185). make some noise for the Hornets at cornerback. Page 20 16 Football Guide, August 23, 2012 High hopes for Springfield

ago and have a great Bulldogs seek to season, which will hopefully carry on into the playoffs. build on 2011 “But that will take the kids working together and not losing focus,” playoff momentum said Serpas. “You can’t Manchack Carter Vickes Schneider Ashton Taylor Hernandez overlook any opportu- nities or that can come SPRINGFIELDP – The Bulldogs came back and bite you. You into their own midway into last have to get better and season and head coach Ryan Serpas improve every game. is hoping his team can carry their If you can do that, you momentum over into even more of a have a shot at winning success this coming season. the district champion- Even though Springfield squeaked ship and getting into into the playoffs in 2011 during the playoffs.” Claiborne Love Smith Wild Armstrong Wheat Clark what was a rebuilding year, the With Serpas turning Bulldogs graduated just five players the offense over to former Albany He made a lot of plays last year and Parish player. “I’m really looking off that squad and are even hun- assistant coach Mike Janis, the we’re expecting that out of him for him to have a break-out season. grier this year. “flexbone” attack is led by senior once again.” “We also have Armstrong, Clai- “They put high expectations on quarterback Shaquille Smith, who Lining up behind Smith will be borne and Tanner Wild, along with themselves,” said Serpas, who is took over the reins of the offense junior running back Ghermaine Josh Tyler rotating in. entering his fourth season at the midway into the season last year. Ashton, senior Thomas Armstrong “All the running backs have com- helm of the Bulldogs, with two of “Smith took over in Week 4 last and senior Kimanae Claiborne, all plementary skills to each other,” those first three teams making the year and is a natural playmaker,” returning starters from a year ago. said Serpas. “We ran the wishbone playoffs. “They really understand said Serpas of his quarterback. “He’s (Ashton) a hard-nosed runner, last year, but we may mix it up a what’s at stake. They want to im- “He did a great job of running the a power guy with strong legs,” said little more this season.” prove on their mistakes from a year option and making our offense go. Serpas of last year’s first-team All- Heading up the receiving corps are returning starter split end ju- nior Chuckie Vickes and returning junior tight end Bryant Manchack. Another first-team All-Parish player from a year ago, senior Wade Wheat, anchors the offensive line at center, flanked by three returning starters, sophomore guard Chris Carter and junior guard Travis Tillman and junior tackle Campbell Palmer (6-5, 300). Newcomer Dale Smith has emerged as another starter on the offensive front. “We’re anchored up front by Wade Wheat at center, who’s not only a three-year starter and a great player, but a smart kid as well with a 28 ACT score,” said Serpas. “We moved Chris Carter from guard to tackle, while Campbell Palmer returns with a huge presence at 6-foot-5, 330 pounds. Dale Smith is a new starter for us, but a tough kid, who has worked extremely hard in the weight room over the summer.” Defensively, Springfield will line David Normand | The News up in a 50, with four of the five in The 2012 Springfield High Bulldog coaching staff is (from left) Keith Patterson, David Dragg, Guy Henderlick, Ryan Serpas, Mike Janis, Russell Loper and Chris Blanchard. Not pictured is Austin Thomas. Springfield Page 18 Football Guide, August 23, 2012 17

David Normand | The News The 2012 Springfield High Bulldogs football team are (front row, from left) Bryant Manchack, Thomas Armstrong, Chuckie Vickes, Zack Clark, Brandon Jackson, Dylan Wilson, Mark Patterson, Milan Love, Matt Gregoire, and Darrien Schneider. Second row are Josh Vicks, Josh Taylor, Keenan Austin, Lamorris Reed, Tanner Wild, Tristan Hayes, Cody Egle, Keith Hernandez, Ghermaine Ashton, and Dale Smith. Third row are JoJo Carter, David Cambre, Evan Shearer, Jeffery Christy, Scott Watts, Jude Miller, Travis Tillman, Jeramie Ross, Micheal Jackson, Dustin Hano and Jon avon Roberts. Fourth row are Shelby Billiot, team manager; Campbell Palmer, Chris Carter, Wade Wheat, Torran Lail- heugue, Josh Childers and Robert Williams. Top row are coaches Guy Henderlick, Ryan Serpas, Springfield High head football coach; Keith Patterson, Chris Blanchard, David Dragg, Mike Janis and Russell Loper. Not pictured are Austin Thomas, coach; Kimanae Claiborne, Shaquille Smith and Joseph Kemp.

Perfect tackle always winds up in the briar patch

From 13 At left is the in the briar patch. Underclassmen marveled team photo at the ferocity of the hit and whispered among for Denham themselves that one day they too would make Springs High the perfect tackle. In what appeared to be School from an uncharacteristic act of benevolence, the the 1958 coaches would then dismiss practice on a high season. Note note, understanding the psychology of the the single bar moment. All the way to the dressing room, the facemasks two gladiators reveled in their fifteen minutes that required of fame. players to There is no longer a depression in the earth choose by where the sawdust pit once challenged an the way they era of Yellow Jackets to show their grit, and were adjusted over time the briar patch has given way to whether to the landscaper’s shovel. The echoes of our protect the coaches’ exuberant voices have fallen silent nose or the now. Yet, any veteran of the pit who wore teeth. purple and gold from 1955 to 1963 could lead you to this hallowed ground. It is seared in their minds. This was the place where they began their journey into manhood. 18 Football Guide, August 23, 2012 Springfield expects physical strength to be strong point

District 8-2A From 16 SPRINGFIELD as well. Aug. 31 at Mt. Hermon the trenches returning starters. “This is probably the deepest team They included ends Armstrong and I’ve had since taking over as head Sept. 7 Albany Smith, along with Chris Carter at one coach,” said Serpas. “This will enable Sept. 14 DeLa Salle tackle and Michael Jackson at an- us to give the respective starters on Sept. 21 at Live Oak other. The only newcomer to defensive offense and defense a breather, instead front is tackle Jeramie Ross. Wheat is of relying heavily on two-way start- Sept. 28 Grace King also expected to see action at tackle. ers.” Oct. 4 Pope John Paul* Wild, who transferred midway in Springfield is coming off a 5-6 cam- Oct. 12 at St. Helena Central* the season last year from Albany, will paign in 2011 after making the play- return to one of the linebacking spots, offs following a surge in district play Oct. 18 Pine* along with another returning starter and 5-5 finish overall in the regular Oct. 26 at Northlake Christian* in Keith Hernandez. season. The Bulldogs lost to Episcopal Nov. 2 at St. Thomas Aquinas* The Bulldog secondary has three- in the first round of the playoffs. fourths of its returning starters in Serpas’ effort earned him Livingston Josh Taylor, Joseph Kemp and Clai- Parish “Coach of the Year” honors. *District game borne. The Bulldogs remain a member of Junior Zack Clark rounds out the District 8-2A along with St. Thomas starting secondary, but sophomore Aquinas, Pope John Paul II, North- Milan Love is expected to see a lot of lake Christian, St. Helena Central and action at safety, while junior Darrien Pine. Schneider should get into the rotation

Saints 2012 Schedule

Sunday, Sept. 9 Washington Redskins Noon FOX Sunday, Sept. 16 at Carolina Panthers Noon FOX Sunday, Sept. 23 Kansas City Chiefs Noon CBS Sunday, Sept. 30 at Green Bay Packers Noon FOX Sunday, Oct. 7 San Diego Chargers 7:20 p.m. NBC WEEK 6 BYE Sunday, Oct. 21 at Tampa Bay Bucaneers Noon FOX Sunday, Oct. 28 at Denver Broncos 7:20 p.m. NBC Monday, Nov. 5 Philadelphia Eagles 7:30 p.m. ESPN Sunday, Nov. 11 Atlanta Falcons Noon FOX Sunday, Nov. 18 at Oakland Raiders 3:05 p.m. FOX Sunday, Nov. 25 San Francisco 49ers 3:25 p.m. FOX Thursday, Nov. 29 at Atlanta Falcons 7:20 p.m. NFL Network Sunday, Dec. 9 at New York Giants 3:25 p.m. FOX Sunday, Dec. 16 Tampa Bay Bucaneers Noon FOX Sunday, Dec. 23 at Noon ESPN Sunday, Dec. 30 Carolina Panthers Noon FOX Football Guide, August 23, 2012 19 Live Oak returns 10 starters, 3 on offense From 11 ing roles, seniors Jessie you’re a winner, you’re Price (6-1, 250) and Luke going to thrive in those said Musemeche. “We’re a lot closer Andrepont (5-9, 205) and situations. You have to physically than we are mentally. juniors Conner Gerage be competitive in the They’re great kids, I love them, but (6-2, 255) and Chris Zewe fourth quarter.” they have to be in more competitive and sophomore Chandler Live Oak is coming off situations, something they haven’t Legrange. back-to-back 2-8 sea- been in enough.” “I think the offensive Claverie Kimball Wood Fuller Howard sons under former head Live Oak returns only 10 total start- line, more than any coach David Dykes, who ers from a year ago and just three on positions on the field, Wheeler (5-8, 190). Senior Bryan returned to Central as an offense. dictates the pace of the game more Wood (5-11, 180) completes the line- assistant coach. The Eagles will go with sophomore than any position group can,” said backing corps. “I don’t believe in over-achieving,” quarterback Michael Claverie (6-1- Musemeche. “Even if you don’t score In the secondary, seniors Blaze said Musemeche. “You can’t over- 185), who Musemeche is already very touchdowns every time, you can Kinchen (5-7, 165) and Jarrett Wil- achieve. What over-achieving is in high on. to make first downs to slow down liams (5-11, 165) are returning my opinion is being able to maximize “We decided on Michael (Claverie) momentum by the other team. We starters at the corners, while junior your abilities every time, consis- in the spring, so he could get all the feel good about our line. We’re getting Gage Lockwood (5-9, 162) returns at tently. That’s something some people reps and the experience with 7-on-7 better. The style of offense they ran safety. Junior Justin Webb (5-10, 165) can’t do. And that’s what we need to ball in the summer,” said Muse- in the past, they didn’t put their hand completes the secondary at the other do.” meche. “And he’s done a really good in the dirt. But this year, we’ll be safety position. District 4-5A job. We’re going to ask more and putting our hands down and stepping “We’re going to change things from more of him as the season goes.” forward. what they’ve done here in the past, LIVE OAK The “Spread-T” formation will also “We’re going to be multiple on but not from what I’ve done in the Aug. 31 Livonia have two returning starters as receiv- defense,” said Musemeche. “We run past,” said Musemeche. “We’re going Sept. 7 at Redemptorist ers, senior Wesley Howard (6-0, 192), four-man front, a five-man front and to be multiple enough. We’re going to who can play both in the backfield or a three-man front. We’re going to be run a lot of spread, a wing-T combi- Sept. 13 at Broadmoor in a wide-out slot, along with junior making checks, not just in the sec- nation. I’ve been intrigued by the Sept. 21 Springfield Wesley Fuller (5-10, 173). Senior tight ondary, but upfront. combination of those ever since I’ve Sept. 28 University Lab end is Jordan Hebert (6-2-196). Two of the three defensive linemen been an assistant coach. Live Oak also returns senior run- are returning starters in seniors Oct. 5 Walker* ning back Austin Zachary (5-8, 170), Blake Brock (6-2, 205) and Ryan “Whether you win or lose, you have Oct. 11 at Denham Springs* while junior back Chris Kelley (5-10, Kimball (6-1, 200), while fellow senior to be in a competitive situation all the Oct. 19 at Scotlandville* 235) has the size and force to make Trent Lee (5-9, 170) rounds out the time,” said Musemeche, who comes some holes on his own. Kelly also has front. to LOHS after a successful tenure at Oct. 26 Zachary* a strong foot and will do the place- A pair of linebackers also have St. John’s of Plaquemine. “We need Nov. 2 at Central* kicking for the Eagles. starting experience in seniors Jona- to get ourselves in those situations. *District game Senior Jordan Hebert (6-3, 196) than Guidry (5-9, 205) and Brandt You have to enjoy a close game late. If lines up at tight end. “It’s similar to wildcat,” said David Normand | Musemeche. “I’ve never had like 13 The News skill people at one time, so you have to maximize what you have. My best The 2012 Live teams in the past, we threw the ball Oak High Eagles 16 to 17 times, which is a lot in high football coach- school football. ing staff are “We’ll probably throw it a little bit (front row, from more than my norm, but not overly left) Eric France, more than some of my best teams Robbie Mahfouz, with a good quarterback,” said Muse- Tut Musemeche, meche. “I believe in running a spread Vincent Argrave with a tight end. I think it’s more and Greg Briggs. difficult to defend. Standing are Ray “My running backs are receiv- Thomas, Thomas ers,” said Musemeche. “I believe in Broady, Chris a 20-touch guy, then a 15-touch guy Collier, Lafayette and a 10-touch guy. It’s not about the Duhe, Brent Baker, plays, but who’s your threat. Who’s Blayne Westmo- your 20-guy, your 15-guy and your reland and Robert 10-guy. It’s about where are you going Glueck. to maximize you ability to be a factor in the game.” All the guys in the offensive trenches however, are new to start- 20 Football Guide, August 23, 2012

District 8-3A LSU 2012 Schedule ALBANY

Saturday, Sept. 1 North Texas 7:00 p.m. Aug. 31 at Episcopal Sept. 7 at Springfield Saturday, Sept. 8 Washington 7:00 p.m. Sept. 14 Pine Saturday, Sept. 15 Idaho 8:00 p.m. Sept. 20 at Ellender Sept. 28 St. Helena Central Saturday, Sept. 22 at Auburn TBA Oct. 5 Loranger* Saturday, Sept. 29 Towson TBA Oct. 12 Independence* Oct. 19 at Jewel Sumner* Saturday, Oct. 6 at (23) Florida TBA Oct. 26 at Bogalusa* Saturday, Oct. 13 (9) South Carolina TBA Nov. 2 at Amite*

Saturday, Oct. 20 at Texas A&M TBA *District game Saturday, Nov. 3 (2) Alabama 8:00 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 10 Mississippi State TBA Saturday, Nov. 17 Mississippi TBA Friday, Nov. 23 at (10) Arkansas 2:30 p.m.