The legendary Indian Bowl gives way to Rougher Village Story, Page 4
FIND YOUR TEAM: MUSKOGEE • HILLDALE • FORT GIBSON • WAGONER
CHECOTAH • EUFAULA • HASKELL • WARNER • GORE
PORTER • MIDWAY• PORUM • WEBBERS FALLS
Muskogee Phoenix
Thursday, Aug. 25, 2022
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Team pages
Muskogee, 5
Hilldale, 8
Fort Gibson, 11
Wagoner, 13
Checotah, 16
Eufaula, 19
Warner, 20
Haskell, 22
Gore, 24
Porter, 25
Porum, 27
Midway, 28
Webbers Falls, 29
OU-OSU, 30
Extras
New districts, 7
Area team schedules, 10
Next-gen football, 15
A century at the Fort, 18
Web, radio and talk, 26 College schedules, 31
Muskogee Phoenix Thursday, Aug. 25, 2022
QB: JAMARIAN FICKLIN, MUSKOGEE, 6-1, 183, SO.
All-Phoenix Newcomer of Year threw for 2,300 yards last season as a freshman starter.
RB: ERIC VIRGIL, HILLDALE, 5-9, 185, SR.
1.385 yards on 197 carries and 24 touchdowns in All-Phoenix season in 2021.
RB: GUNNAR DOZIER, GORE 6-1, 210, SR.
1,207 yards on 138 carries, 23 touchdowns. All-Phoenix 2021.
FB: TY VINSON, WARNER 6-0, 212, JR.
Moved positions from All-Phoenix OL in 2021, where he graded out 94 percent.
WR: JAYDEN BELL, MUSKOGEE, 5-8, 155, SR.
Caught 50 passes for 968 yards and 9 TDs, All-Phoenix in 2021.
WR: CADE WAGGLE, FORT GIBSON, 5-11,165, SR. 44 catches, 725 yards, 9 TDs. All-Phoenix 2021.
TE: ANTHONY WATSON, MUSKOGEE, 6-0, 218, JR. 38 catches, 425 yards, 3 TDs in 2021.
OL: EVAN KEEFE, HILLDALE, 6-3, 275, SR. Air Force commit,,All-Phoenix in 2021. 54 pancake blocks, 92 percent grade.
OL: GRAYSON GADDY, HILLDALE, 6-0, 240, SR. Graded out 90 percent in 2021.
OL: VERNON PEPIAKITAH, MUSKOGEE, 6-1, 293, SR. Top lineman in 2021, season cut short by knee injury.
OL: ROMAN GARCIA, WAGONER, 6-3, 235, SR. Two-way starter a year ago.
OL: GARRETT DOUTHIT, GORE, 6-3, 280, SR. All-Phoenix in 2021, 90 percent grade.
K: CHRISTIAN O’CONNOR, GORE, 6-1, 160, SR. 24 of 28 on XPs in five games due to injury, longest FG of 42 yards.
DL: DRAVEN GRAGG, EUFAULA, 6-3, 260, JR. 39 tackles last season.
DL: JUNIOR FAUL, HASKELL, 6-2, 220, SR. 56 tackles, 16 for loss, 4 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, 2 fumble recoveries
DL: ONTARIO ELLEN, EUFAULA, 5-11, 195, SR. 85 tackles, 6 sacks.
DL: GABE DOZIER, GORE, 6-1, 250, SR. All-Phoenix in 2021, 43 tackles included 12 for losses and 2 sacks.
LB: ALEX SHIELDNIGHT, WAGONER, 6-4, 215, SO. 75 tackles, 6 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, 2 interceptions.
LB: GERVON WASHINGTON, MIDWAY, 6-1, 225, SO. 47 tackles, 4 sacks, 3 fumble recoveries, 1 forced fumble
LB: CARSON PARKS, WARNER, 6-0, 207, SR. Small School Defensive POY, 153 tackles and two interceptions.
S: GABE RODRIGUEZ, WAGONER, 5-9, 170, SR. 108 tackles and 1 fumble recovery. Was QB and Large School Offensive Player of the Year in 2021 but is being moved to an H-Back/running back spot.
CB: HUNTER BRANCH, FORT GIBSON, 6-2, 165, SR. 6 interceptions, 9 pass deflections, 23 tackles, 21 solo.
S: BRETT PIPPENGER, EUFAULA, 6-0, 175, SR. 145 tackles, 1 fumble recovery, 6 pass breakups
CB: ELIJAH THOMAS, CHECOTAH, 6-1, 175, SO. 44 tackles, 1 interception. Offered this summer by Arkansas.
P: COLE MAHANEY, FORT GIBSON, 5-10, 170, SR. 39.3 average on 33 attempts. All-Phoenix 2021. Also a QB.
By Mike Kays mkays@muskogeephoenix.com
Well, Indian Bowl wasn’t fully ready for its opening night either 84 years ago.
So history will repeat itself Sept. 2 when there’s a football game at Rougher Village in a far from perfect scenario.
The turf looks great.
The seating, there’s plenty.
There’s even an esthetically pleasingtreeline backdrop beyond the northwest corner of the end zone, courtesy of nature itself.
But the restrooms, they’ll be portable.
The concessions? Portable, but plenty — including four from the area’s growing food truck industry, so it adds variety to the standard hotdogs and nachos fare.
The home locker room? For now, it’s the intended visitor’s locker room, complete with coaches’ offices. The visitors will receive a makeshift arrangement just down the hallway. The builders of G-Unit at Muskogee High likely never saw that purpose coming some day.
Meanwhile, those accessing the press box will climb four to six flights of stairs to get
China, perhaps sitting with some fireworks — remember those Fourth of July celebrations that got canceled? America is feeling this, not just Rougher Nation.
And no one feels it more than superintendent Jarod Mendenhall, who with a long-term planning committee put together at the outset of his tenure got the ball rolling with a vision, one that voters eventually embraced.
for a period of time. We needed an answer for where they would dress. We had some hard conversations about this.”
And some things, he insisted, had to be deliverable.
“I promised this community and these students we would be playing our first game here in 2022, and that’s what I wanted to keep everybody’s focus on,” he said.
to it as the elevator will not be functional (quick, is there a crash cross-fit course for some of us old guys?), but there’s also the traditional way of scaling the bleachers to the top.
As for parking, it’s going to be a lot about what I’ll go ahead and name the Rougher Shuttle, from the shopping center lot a block or so west of the stadium, where Ollie’s and MiniMax Food Store, among other establishments, is.
But through it all, there will be football here for these seniors, and despite all the hurdles that have slowed completion in these pandemic and supply chain issue eras we’re in, that’s enough to kick off on time, say the folks who brought this to us as the centerpiece of a $110 million bond issue
passed by voters three years ago.
“We’ve been to fairs, we’ve even been to other arenas that have had this types of setups, whether it be permanent or temporary,” said Jason Parker, Muskogee athletic director. “I’ve built a new house before. I’ve had to have a contractor come out up to 12 months later because things weren’t as finished as thought.”
So excuse the dust, so to speak.
“If it is going to inconvenience some adults for a little while to allow these seniors a chance to play in it, so be it,” Parker said. “If you polled them, I think 100 percent would rather play in this facility one year even as is.”
The linchpin, as I understand it, is a chip for the power components
that have kept Manhattan Construction Company from enclosing the field house and completing locker areas, weight rooms, coaches offices and even a Stadium Club for special occasion seating. It’s a chip that also has a functioning elevator, wifi and phone lines on hold.
It’s apparently somewhere between here and
As late as February, the view was through the glasses of rock-solid optimism that everything needed for football would be finished. The asterisk was issues beyond immediate control, a proverbial flake in the corner of the eye.
“It was about that point I had to get my arms around what can be deliverable and what can not be deliverable,” Mendenhall said last week, reflecting on the process thus far. “We needed to have the team practice on that field
In spite of China. In spite of the supply chain. In spite of inflation, which has put the entire bond issue over budget at about 9 percent, or $5 million over the length.
Some adjustments were made at the outset of the project, beginning with moving the initial plan to the campus side of Shawnee Road rather than the area east of Lowe’s across the street. That property wasn’t going to be obtained for the price needed.
By Mike Kays mkays@muskogeephoenix.com
The frustration began early.
Sixty-three points allowed in week one, and it was a roller-coaster ride from there — twice more, 49 points by the half. Per game, 415 yards allowed defensively.
It was far too much to ask the other side, led by a freshman quarterback with scant experience returning from an 0-7 team in a pandemic-shortened 2020, and like the defense learning a new scheme under new coordinators and a new head coach.
For Rougher Nation, it was catch-up from the word go, and never caught up.
“It’s just so hard to correct when those guys making mistakes are 14-15 years old and playing at a speed they’ve never seen before,” said Steve Craver, who oversaw Muskogee’s defense for the first time.
By now, they have, and the game has slowed down, on both sides of the ball. So a year later, buoyed by mental growth, physical growth and growth that comes from forged relationships and trust, there’s fresh optimism, joined by a fresh turf and stadium at Rougher Village, thus ending 83 years of Indian Bowl tradition.
“We had to take small steps,” said Travis Hill, entering his second season as head coach after two stints as defensive coordinator, the first culminating in a semifinal season in 2016, and the second ending with the program’s only winless, though shortened, season of 2020.
“You saw it, we all saw it. That’s where we came from into last year. When you’re that far down in about every way imaginable, it starts with little things. And you keep driving home those little things.”
So from the start in 2021, there was little two-way playing. The emphasis was on growing in the place you had the best shot of growing. And on the offensive side of the ball, the growth was more noticeable.
Jamarian Ficklin threw for 2,328 yards and as a freshman was All-Phoenix Newcomer of the Year. He will no doubt have the benefit of a growing chemistry mix with Jayden Bell, who had 968 yards last season on 50 receptions and was All-Phoenix. But that chemistry improves as well with guys like junior Kayden McGee, a guy with developing D-1 stock and a few inches of height on the sure-handed Bell. There’s also Anthony Watson, a multi-faceted junior in terms of receiving and rushing options.
Add to that the year spent under offensive coordinator Chris Risenhoover, and also guys like Bell, McGee and running back Brandon Tolbert established themselves as leaders. Their growth helped solidify plans over the off-season to let them go both ways — Bell and McGee will work at one corner spot and Tolbert will move to linebacker, perhaps leaning there more so than on offense.
“I was linebacker through INFC (youth) ball and into ninth grade, then it all changed my sophomore year,” Tolbert, a senior now, said.
(See next page)
Muskogee Phoenix
Thursday, Aug. 25, 2022
“I’m OK with this. Last year was a lot of ups and downs. This year we’re confident and ready for what’s ahead.”
The line will have Vernon Pepiakitah healthy. He was lost half of 2021 with a knee injury. He was considered at the time their best blocker.
But others have come along rather well. Bradyn Henry will move to center following an off-season of weight work and summer strides that had offensive coordinator Chris Risenhoover labeling him the best player on the team during the team camp at Claremore.
“Vernon coming back is a big part of what we’ll be,” said Henry. “Me moving to center was a little bit of a change but I’ve played it before. We’ve got guys who can step up and give people breaks. And our bond is pretty good.
“We know what we’re doing. We can look at the field and know what alignment we’re seeing, and know where our doubles are and how to play together.”
Speaking of bonds, the glue that has kept Bixby’s hands stuck on the gold ball seven times in the eight years of Class 6AII-2’s existence has been broken due to realignment. Bixby is now 6AI and bound for a nationally-televised game in week 10 with 6AI defending champ Jenks. That creates opportunity in 6AII that only Tulsa Washington has taken advantage of, that being in 2017. Stillwater shifts from the western district to the east and appears to have the slight edge over Booker T at the top.
Toss in the new stage in Rougher Village, and the upcoming season is full of intrigue.
“My final run, and we got this new stadium. It’s really surreal because my uncles played at Indian Bowl,” Bell said. “I’m excited to see what (the new facility) is going to do for Muskogee.”
Last season: 2-8.
Head coach: Travis Hill, 2nd year.
This group will be the one that breaks it in, and the guys that make it up would like to be part of solving the equation at the top.
Hill thinks they can, but first things first.
“We’re still driving home the fact that beyond the talent, it’s all about doing the little things right,” said Hill, who won a state title at Tulsa East Central over a decade ago.
“It’s not just coach speak, it really is key to success, not just on the field but in life. If we make a habit of that across the board, we can do some special things.”
Staff: Chris Risenhoover, offensive coordinator; Steve Craver, defensive coordinator; Brad Higeons, linebacker/assistant head coach; Keaton Scott, tight end; Carter Bradley, receivers; Ryan Dvorak, offensive line; Tuffy Thornton, offensive line; Anthony McNac, defensive line; Prentice Joseph, defensive line; Pete Richardson, cornerbacks; Don Mayes, running backs; Brady Tingel, grad assistant. Returning starters (8 offensive, 5 defensive): Jamarian Ficklin So., QB, 6-1, 183; Jayden Bell, Sr., 5-8, 155, WR/CB, Brandon Tolbert, Sr., RB, 5-8, 201; Anthony Watson, Jr., RB/TE/LB, 6-0, 218; Vernon Pepiakitah, Sr., OL, 6-1, 293; Kayden McGee, Jr., 6-0, 145, WR; Teyon Brewer, OL/DL, Jr., 6-3, 265; Braydn Henry, Jr., OL, 6-0, 210; Jase Garrett, Sr., OL, 5-11, 230;. Jayden Swanson, Jr. CB, 5-11,145; Ayden Kemp, Jr., S, 5-11, 165; Treyveon Houston, Jr., (DL now LB), 5-8, 190; DeShawn Smith, Sr., LB, 5-10,180; Jaron Riggs-Brown, Jr., S, 6-2, 151.
Emerging: LaTavion Johnson, So., RB, 5-8, 175; Ondraye Beasley, So., WR, 5-8, 160; Wesley Harvey, Jr., OL, 6-6, 282; Pepiakitah, DL; Zion Dedmon, WR; Zack Coffman, Sr., OL, 5-9, 240; Watson, LB; Tolbert, LB; McGee, CB; Terryn Miles, Sr., CB/S, 5-8, 154; Deyonn Bowler, Jr., S, 5-7, 158; O’Shea Stevenson, So., OL, 6-2, 291; Kaleb Huston, Jr., OL, 6-2, 300.
6AII-1
Muskogee
Tahlequah
Bartlesville
T. Washington
Sand Springs
Stillwater
US Grant
Putnam West
4A-4
Fort Gibson
Hilldale Ada
Broken Bow
Madill
Poteau
Sallisaw Stilwell
4A-3
Wagoner Catoosa Cleveland Cushing McLain
Miami
Oologah Skiatook
3A-3
Checotah Berryhill
Lincoln Christian
Locust Grove
Muldrow
Seminole
Stigler
T. Webster
A-5
Warner Henryetta Keys Okemah Prague Roland Sequoyah Vian
2A-6 Eufaula Antlers Heavener Hugo Idabel Spiro Valliiant Wilburton
A-8
Gore Haskell Porter Canadian Panama Pocola Sal. Central Talihina (not playing)
B-5
Midway Porum
Webbers Falls Caddo Dewar Quinton
Muskogee Phoenix
Thursday, Aug. 25, 2022
But don’t overlook the quarterback. Doing so almost cost a powerhouse a playoff win last year
By Mike Kays mkays@muskogeephoenix.com
The season didn’t end like it wanted — and earlier than the quarterfinal peak it has been accustomed to reach over the years — yet Hilldale came exeedingly and unexpectedly close to showing what can happen if you focus on their noteworthy running game.
Caynen David may not look the part — his 5-foot-8 height is less than the desired tower for a high school quarterback — but on that night, he played the part to the extent of scaring Wagoner head coach Dale Condict.
David threw for 323 yards and four touchdowns against Class 4A powerhouse Wagoner, which keyed on now three-year starter Eric Virgil, limiting his carries to four with just 12 yards.
And it wasn’t just David’s arm — he had 1,700 yards passing on the season — but as Condict said afterward, the elusiveness he showed came as a surprise.
Nothing should surprise opposing defenses this year against this offense.
Nine starters return, including Virgil and his just shy of
2.800 yards rushing in two seasons. The line that helped protect the quarterback is all back, including Air Force commit Evan Keefe, who is relieved he has his long-range future map settled before getting into the season in front of him. He had 10 offers, seven from Division I schools, and the exposure helped in other ways.
“The thing that it did is it brought a lot of attention to other players on our team,” he said.
You don’t get recruited to a military academy without understanding leadership. That’s another aspect of this team beyond Keefe’s part that stands out. It’s something that head coach David Blevins has become familiar with as this senior class were freshmen when he arrived from Locust Grove.
“Me coming in when they were all freshmen, I saw a lot knew how to play and I played some of them,” Blevins said. “Nine guys started three years. The leadership this class brings, everyone is buying into this group. We’ve thought from the get-go this group would be special.”
The head coach’s physical-over-finesse approach bodes well with such experience in
(See next page)
Hilldale quarterback Caynen David showed in last year’s narrow first-round playoff loss he could shoulder a bigger dual threat load if you key too much on running back Eric Virgil with two 1,000-plus yard seasons.
Phoenix Thursday, Aug. 25, 2022
the trenches.
“I’ve been with those guys since INFC (youth) football. I trust them with my life,” said fellow lineman Grayson Gaddy. “It’s one of the biggest brotherhoods we’re going to have, and the last few years I think we’ve really connected there and know what each other is going to do.”
It’s also a group that has a new line coach in Josh McMillan, who was with Blevins as part of Muskogee’s staff under Matt Hennesy in the 00s.
Last season: 8-3, lost 4A first round. Head coach: David Blevins, 4th season.
Staff: Blevins, defensive coordinator; Erwin Starts, offensive coordinator; Josh McMillan, offensive line; Bailey Puckett, defensive line; Blane Burns, quarterbacks; Grant Dunn, safeties; Alex Puckett, linebackers; Kennington Easley, receivers/cornerbacks; Ty Pickering, running backs.
Blevins takes over the defense as coordinator Earnie Ragland left this summer for Adair and the spot wasn’t filled from outside. That side of the football must overcome some key losses — Cason Albin set a school sack record at defensive end and was All-Phoenix Large School Defensive Player of the Year, and was one of three All-Phoenix selections on that side to graduate. Those offensive linemen will help fill spots up front. Behind them, Aden Jenkins had 73 tackles at linebacker.
“We took some hard losses, we’ll have a couple new guys on the back end and our line looks good. We’ve got guys coming in who can play,” said Jace Walker, a returning starter at safety.
And there’s plenty of leadership, including the quarterback.
“I want everything to go on my shoulders on Friday nights,” David said this summer. “If it’s someone’s fault we don’t win, I want it to be mine. I want to be that kind of guy for others.”
Returning starters (9 offensive, 6 defensive): Eric Virgil, Sr., RB, 5-9, 185; Evan Keefe, Sr., OL/DL, 6-3, 275; Logan Harper, Sr., WR/OLB, 6-3, 195; Caynen David, Sr., QB, 5-8, 170; Lamarion Burton, Sr., WR, 6-0, 160, Aden Jenkins, Sr., LB, 6-10, 205; Grayson Gaddy, Sr., C, 6-0, 240; Koby East, St., G/NG, 6-2, 315; Blair Paulson, C, 6-7, 218; Micah Gonzalez, Sr., G, 6-1, 233;, Kayden Shoals, Sr., DL, 5-7, 265; Isaac Gonzales, Sr., FS, 5-8, 155; Jace Walker, Sr., WR/FS, 5-11, 162.
Emerging: Burton, DB; Cash Schiller, So., OL/DL/K, 5-8, 235; Mason Pickering, So., WR/LB, 6-0, 190; Isaiah Patterson, Sr., WR/ CB, 5-8, 155; Hayden Pickering, So., WR/DB, 5-7, 145; Brady Scott, WR/DB; Wyatt Branscum, Sr., DL, 6-1, 204; Alonzo Perez, Sr., WR/ CB, 5-9, 166.
Muskogee Phoenix
Thursday, Aug. 25, 2022
A26, at Enid, 7 p.m.
S2, Putnam City, 7 p.m.
S9, at Carl Albert, 7 p.m.
S23, at Sand Springs, 7 p.m.
S30, Putnam West (HC), 7 p.m.
O7, at Grant, 7 p.m.
O13, Tahlequah, 7 p.m.
O20, at T. Washington, 7 p.m.
O28, Bartlesville, 7 p.m.
N4, Stillwater, 7 p.m.
S2, at T. Edison, 7 p.m.
S9, Tulsa Hale, 7:30 p.m.
S16, at Claremore, 7 p.m.
S23, Stilwell (HC), 7:30 p.m.
S30, Ada, 7:30 p.m.
O7, at Poteau, 7 p.m.
O13, at Sallisaw, 7 p.m.
O21, Broken Bow, 7 p.m.
O28, Madill, 7:30 p.m.
N4, Fort Gibson, 7:30 p.m.
A26, Oologah, 7 p.m.
S2, at Berryhill, 7 p.m.
S16, Glenpool (HC), 7 p.m.
S23, at Poteau, 7 p.m.
S30, Broken Bow, 7 p.m.
O7, at Stilwell, 7 p.m.
O13, at Madill, 7 p.m.
O20, Ada, 7 p.m.
O28, Sallisaw, 7 p.m.
N4, at Hilldale, 7:30 p.m.
S2, Coweta, 7 p.m.
S9, Tahlequah, 7 p.m.
S30, Heavener (HC), 7 p.m.
S16, at Grove, 7 p.m.
S23, at Skiatook, 7 p.m.
S30, Oologah (HC), 7 p.m.
O7, at Cushing, 7 p.m.
O13, Cleveland, 7 p.m.
O21, at T. McLain, 7 p.m.
O28, Catoosa, 7 p.m.
N4, at Miami, 7 p.m.
A26 ,at E. Central, 7 p.m.
S2, C. Sequoyah, 7 p.m.
S9, at Haskell, 7 p.m.
S16, Eufaula, 7:30 p.m.
S23, at Muldrow, 7 p.m.
S30, Seminole (HC), 7 p.m.
O7, at L. Christian, 7 p.m.
O13, Locust Grove, 7 p.m.
O21, at Berryhill, 7 p.m.
N4, Stigler, 7 p.m.
S2, at Savanna, 7 p.m.
S9, S. Central, 7 p.m.
S16, at Chouteau, 7 p.m.
S23, Vian, 7 p.m.
S30, at Okemah, 7 p.m.
O7, Henryetta (HC), 7 p.m.
O13, at Keys, 7 p.m.
O21, Prague, 7 p.m.
O28, T. Sequoyah, 7 p.m.
N4, at Roland, 7 p.m.
S2, Vian, 7 p.m.
S9, at Sequoyah, 7 p.m.
S16, at Checotah, 7:30 p.m.
S23, at Spiro, 7 p.m.
O7, at Wilburton, 7 p.m.
O13, Antlers, 7 p.m.
O21, Valliant, 7 p.m.
O28, at Hugo, 7 p.m.
N4, Idabel, 7 p.m.
A26, at Wilburton, 7 p.m.
S2, Keys, 7 p.m.
S9 ,at Mounds, 7 p.m.
S16, at Savanna, 7 p.m.
S30, Canadian (HC), 7 p.m.
O7, at Pocola, 7 p.m.
O13, Sal. Central, 7 p.m.
O21, Panama, 7 p.m.
O28, at Haskell, 7 p.m.
N4, Porter, 7 p.m.
S2, Caney Valley, 7 p.m.
S9, Checotah, 7 p.m.
S16, at Morris, 7 p.m.
S23, at Sal. Central, 7 p.m.
S30, Porter, 7 p.m.
O6 Casady, 7 p.m.
O13 Canadian, 7 p.m.
O21, at Pocola, 7 p.m.
O28, Gore (HC), 7 p.m.
N4, at Panama, 7 p.m.
S2, Mounds, 7p.m.
S9, at Hulbert, 7 p.m.
S16, Wyandotte (HC), 7 p.m.
S23, Panama, 7 p.m.
S30, at Haskell, 7 p.m.
O7, at Sal. Central, 7 p.m.
O13 bye
O20, at Canadian, 7 p.m.
O28, Pocola, 7 p.m.
N4, at Gore, 7 p.m.
A26, Cave Springs, 7 p.m.
S2 at Arkoma, 7 p.m.
S9 at Bowlegs, 7 p.m.
S16 Gans, 7 p.m.
S30 Depew, 7 p.m.
O6 at Quinton, 7 p.m.
O13 Webbers Falls, 7 p.m.
O21 Caddo, 7 p.m.
O28 at Dewar, 7 p.m.
N4 Porum, 7 p.m.
S2, at S. Coffeyville, 7:30 p.m.
S8, Oaks, 7:30 p.m.
S16, Keota (HC), 7 p.m.
S23, Gans, 7 p.m.
S29, at Cave Springs, 7 p.m.
O7, Caddo, 7 p.m.
O13, at Dewar, 7 p.m.
O21, at Webbers Falls, 7 p.m.
O27, Quinton, 7 p.m.
N4, at Midway, 7 p.m.
A26, at Regent Prep, 7 p.m.
S2, Wesleyan Christian, 7 p.m.
S9, Arkoma, 7 p.m.
S16, at Oaks, 7 p.m.
S22,at Cave Springs, 7 p.m.
O7, Dewar, 7 p.m.
O14, at Midway, 7 p.m.
O20, Porum (HC), 7 p.m.
O28, at Caddo, 7 p.m.
N4, Quinton, 7 p.m.
Muskogee Phoenix Thursday, Aug. 25, 2022
By Mike Kays mkays@muskogeephoenix.com
From the moment Ryan Nolan walked into an auditorium to meet his first team to serve as head coach for, it’s been different.
There was the player he told to sit up in his seat.
Cell phones, turn them off.
And from that point in time grew a sense of excitement, stretching to a bump in booster meeting attendance, and, where it matters most, summer workout attendance.
“(Players) wanted to be there, they
wanted to work every day, day in and day out,” said Hunter Branch, one of the seniors.
“A lot more numbers, I can tell you that,” added his quarterback, Cole Mahaney.
Mahaney had some inside information on his new mentor. Mahaney’s uncle, Chance Ross, was Ryan Nolan’s favorite receiver at nearby Keys High School. The passing combo set multiple school records together there. Since then, Nolan, inspired by his high school coach, Gary Willis, went a
Muskogee Phoenix
Thursday, Aug. 25, 2022
way that most in his family did not, trading a career in medicine for football.
A sojourn through multiple Class 6A schools around Tulsa, the last stop being part of Jenks’ 6AI state champion last year, has culminated with the call he got from athletic director Chuck London this spring.
“We knew we had coach (defensive coordinator Scott) Bethel in place, so we knew going in we needed an offensive guy who ran his own system. His being a part of 5A-6A type staffs allowed him to put in his system. His character, his knowledge of the game, relationships with coaches and players ... we felt like he’s the right guy for this time in our history.”
The up-tempo offense from the spread with run-pass options and multiple route options puts a lot of freedom in the feet of receivers and lots of mental load on the quarterbacks.
Mahaney, entering his fourth season as a starter behind center, had an idea early on he was the type of “fit” for what Nolan wants there when his uncle let him know he applied for the job.
“(Ross) just said (Nolan) reminded him a lot of the way I play,” he said.
Added Nolan: “(The offense) is simple for a lot of people but not the quarterback. There’s no pre-snap reads, it’s all post-
Last season: 6-5, lost 4A first round.
Head coach: Nolan Ryan, 1st year.
snap. You may not be able to read the coverage but you’ve got to be able to find the space of what the coverage is giving you. Our receivers will have four options on every play. Cole will have to be able to see the space the receiver is attacking and not just deliver a catchable ball but throw him open.”
With Branch and Waggle, Mahaney has about 1,200 of his 1,819 yards through the air in 2021, a year in which the Tigers tilted more away from the I to a spread. The up-tempo of Nolan’s system will generate more chances. Waggle and Branch will also man secondary spots on defense — as will Mahaney.
The offensive line will see a shuffle. Andrew Sparks played left guard. He’ll move to tackle as part of a movement to put the more athletic linemen at tackle for pulling purposes.
The defense will remain the same under Scott Bethel, a 3-4 alignment, but four return as starters with most are in the back end.
Fort Gibson will look to improve on seven consecutive first-round playoff knockouts. The last time they got to the second round was 2014 under James Singleton.
Singleton, ironically, was also the last to conduct a Football 101 for Moms in the summer months, which Nolan led a couple weeks ago. Speaking of moms, his wife, Maci, is pregnant and due to deliver during the season.
Staff: Scott Bethel, defensive coordinator; Wes Whiteley, linebackers; Sammy Johnson, defensive line, co-special teams; Jordan London, corners/safeties, co-special teams; Jake Tolbert, offensive line, run game coordinator; Chuck London, tight ends, H-backs, assistant offensive line; Grayland Dunams, receivers.
Returning starters (6 offensive, 4 defensive): Cole Mahaney, Sr., QB/S, 5-10, 170; Cade Waggle, Sr., SLOT,/CB, 5-11, 165; Hunter Branch, Sr., WR/CB, 6-2, 165; Rylie Ladd, Jr., 5-11, 180; Andrew Sparks, Sr., OL, 6-1, 220; John Lewis, Sr., OL/ LB, 6-0, 200; Kayden Hunt, Sr., 6-2, LB, 220. Emerging: Donnie Cox, So., MULT/DB, 5-10, 140.
Muskogee Phoenix Thursday, Aug. 25, 2022
By Nick Hampton Phoenix Correspondent
Having been to the pinnacle of success with five Class 4A championships since 2011, the Wagoner Bulldogs found themselves not practicing on Thanksgiving last year after a second-round playoff exit. So this year coach Dale Condict is shaking things up on offense.
After switching from the staple diamond offense to the spread around mid-season last year with Travis Bryant back on staff, moving from defense to offense, an off-season of shaping it has paid dividends, he said.
“From what I’ve seen in the spring and in team camps, I think we’ve made a lot of progress,” said Condict.
Progress with a major tweak. Senior Gabe Rodriguez moves from quarterback to an H-back position with sophomore Kale Charboneau taking over the signal-calling duties. If that holds, Rodriguez’s last play at quarterback ended with a concussion in the first half of last year’s second-round
playoff loss to Tuttle. He finished the year with just over 1,100 yards rushing and also passing and was All-Phoenix Large School Offensive Player of the Year.
“Gabe certainly could be one of the best quarterbacks in 4A football but he’s the kind of guy that’s going to do whatever he needs to do to help the team be the best we can be,” said Condict.
“His move to H-back will still utilize his athleticism and we’ll rely on his blocking but that’s not to say that you won’t see him at quarterback in some instances.”
As for Rodriguez’s thoughts? “I enjoy the change a lot. There’s still some pressure but not as much and I enjoy still getting to run some and catch the ball as well.”
The Bulldogs’ running game will also benefit with the return of senior Braylan Roberson, who averaged over seven yards per carry last year while scoring 11 touchdowns.
The new quarterback will certainly have a talented group of receivers that are among the eight returning offensive starters with sophomore Alex Shield-
night, junior Witt Edwards and senior Brayden Skeen. Shieldnight, who comes from a basketball dominated family, has been a pleasant surprise for Condict.
“This will be just his second year to play football and from the time he stepped on campus last year, I’ve never seen the growth in a player
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Muskogee Phoenix
Thursday, Aug. 25, 2022
that I’ve seen in him,” said the Bulldog head coach.
For Skeen, getting used to a new quarterback has been a driving force for him.
“Last year was OK but I’m looking to do better this year. I’ve been working with Kale a lot and I’m liking what I see,” said Skeen.
The offensive line will be buoyed by three returning seniors in Jacob Barney, Roman Garcia and Kaiden Dick.
The Bulldog defense, which gave up an average of just 15 points a game last year, will again be solid with the likes of Rodriguez, Shieldnight, Charboneau, Skeen and Roberson all expected to play vital roles.
The Bulldogs hold the record in 11-man football for having at least one playoff win in 17 consecutive seasons and Condict is looking to extend that streak in 2022.
“It’s been one of the better summers we’ve ever had, and these guys are focused on getting us back to where we were,” he said. “Last year was the first time in a long time we didn’t practice on ‘Thanksgiving so we’re looking forward to having that practice again.”
The Bulldogs will find out quickly where they stand with a tough non-district schedule that includes 5A standouts Grove and Coweta and 6A newcomer Tahlequah.
Brayden Skeen returns as a pass-catching weapon for Wagoner, as he was in this contest against Sperry in 2021.
Last season: 9-3, 4A quarterfinalist. Head coach: Dale Condict, 17th year, 25th overall.
Staff: Ryan Keenom, Travis Bryant, Leland Alexander, Austin Condict, Chad Soma, Micco Charboneau, Ray Bell, Beau Bowman, Corey Tipton, Allen Sevier.
Returning starters (8 offensive, 7 defensive, 2 specialists): Gabe Rodriguez, Sr., QB/HB/SS, 5-9, 170; Braylon Roberson, Sr., RB/DE, 5-11, 220; Alex Shieldnight, So., TE/OLB, 6-4, 215; Kale Charboneau, So., LB, 6-0, 180; Witt Edwards, Jr., WR/S, 6-6, 205; Brayden Skeen, Sr., WR/CB, 6-0, 165; Ryder Aadahl, Sr., C 6-1, 255; Jacob Barney, Sr., C, 6-1, 255; Roman Garcia, Sr., OL /DE, 6-3, 235; Ethan Muehlenweg, Sr., K, 5-10, 185; Logan Bloxsom, Jr., K, 6-2, 185.
Emerging: Charboneau, QB; Dax Griffin, So., OL, 6-4, 285;Caiden Dick, Sr., OL, 6-0, 230; Gavin Miller, So., OLB, 6-0, 195; Bryce Steele, So., LB, 5-8, 165; Shaun Atikins, Jr., CB, 5-11, 165.
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The game is changing seemingly daily. Players are getting paid, and they’re not pro yet. There’s thoughts that aspect could come to a high school near you.
Safety measures, hightech preparation, you name it. It’s there. And in some places, there’s attrition in the game, so much so that the numbers are dwindling not just in terms of players, but also coaches and officials.
We asked area players to look ahead to a time when their kids are playing, and what the game will look like. These are a few of those responses.
“Football like all sports are constanty changing but the basics will remain the same. With that being said, it will evolve but if you have a good work ethic you can still dominate the game.”
Maddux Shelby, Webbers Falls
“I see the implementation of more technology for safety whether that be gear or more impact sensors. I also see it used more for recruiting and data recording.”
Junior Faul, Haskell
“Players will promote themselves and you’ll see the introduction of NIL deals in high school.”
Jayden Bell, Muskogee
“More rules for people’s safety, possibly making the game softer. I think it will be on TV more.”
Luke Adcock, Eufaula
“I think the OSSAA will test more for steroids and drug tests will be mandatory.”
Gabe Rodriguez, Wagoner
“When my kids play I hope the new coach and his values have set in to our program.”
Andrew Sparks, Fort Gibson
“I think it will be softer. Kids are getting soft.”
Gunner Dozier, Gore
“I’m really hoping football stays the same. I want my kids to have the same great experience I had playing.”
Isaiah Vargas, Checotah
“I think football is always going to be a sport the kids love. On the other hand, I also think parents are going to continue to cause problems and cause officials to slowly keep taking bits form the game.”
Grayson Gaddy, Hilldale
“Looking ahead I feel that we should be cautious, especially in this new wave of entitlement and the self-centered style of thinking sweeping our country, or we may begin to lose the concept of instilling mental fortitude along with the desire for team success even if it means selfsacrifice.”
Ty Vinson, Warner
“When my kids play I believe it will be a bigger sport with more people playing.”
Brayden Stinnett, Porum
“More rules for safety like more padding.”
Miguel Chavez, Porter
“Football will evolve in ways we’ve never seen before. New ideas to make a team work more than teamwork. The critical thinking it instills on young players will make the sport more than just a sport but a life skill.”
Samuel Herrera,Midway
Muskogee Phoenix
Thursday, Aug. 25, 2022
By Eric Shannon Phoenix Correspondent
For the first time in three years, Checotah Wildcats head football coach Zac Ross finds himself in unfamiliar territory.
With only two returning starters on offense and three on defense for the 2022 season he doesn’t have experience and leadership to fall back on.
Seventeen combined starters and a pair of Division I players graduated has left the proverbial cupboard bare.
Add to that the Wildcats play in one of the toughest districts in Class 3A with dangerous squads like Lincoln Christian, Seminole and Stigler and former 4A Muldrow dropping down to join the fracas, District 3A-3 will be anything but a cakewalk to a postseason berth.
“We had a lot of talented players that we lost to graduation, so we’re going to be young, very young this season,” said Ross. “With what we’ve been doing this summer I am happy
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Last season: 3-8, lost 3A first round.
Head coach: Zac Ross.
Staff: Rick Lang, defensive coordinator; Tom Butler, receivers/linebackers; Cody Prator, linemen; Brett Bouher, running backs/defensive line.
Returning starters (2 offensive, 3 defensive): Elijah Thomas, So., WR/DB, 6-1, 175; Jonah Marshall, Jr., G/DT, 6-0, 285; Kreed Hall, LB, 5-10, 185.
Emerging: Jacob Jones, Jr., QB, 6-3, 180; Jaydin Bray, Jr., WR, 6-0, 195; Reighn Westbrook, So., G, 5-10, 250; Isaiah Vargas, Sr., DE, 5-9, 180.
with what we have, we have some kids that have to step up, learn fast, but we’ve been working hard and I’m excited to see what we can do this season.”
Ross will look upon a sophomore in wide receiver
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Elijah Thomas, who pulled in 33 catches and 641 yards receiving with seven touchdowns last season to lead his young and inexperienced offense.
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Thomas is the younger brother of four-year running back Dontierre Fisher, who signed a D-1 letter last winter. The younger brother has already caught the eye of University of Arkansas, which offered him after a summer football camp in June.
With Thomas on one side, Eufaula transfer, junior Jaydin Bray will take on the other receiver spot with Muskogee junior transfer Jacob Jones tasked with getting the ball to the duo.
With the pressure being put on Thomas as just a sophomore, he says he is ready to take on the task of leadership, together with those around him.
“We hold each other accountable out there,” he said. “It’s not about me, we are all working together, we want each other to succeed. We have guys on this team that can make plays like Jacob (Jones) and Jaydin (Bray), it’s a team game and we’re all going after that win.”
Bray concurs with Thomas that there are players ready to step up and fill in some roles.
“We have some challenges on the offensive line,” said Ross. “We’re going to have to grow up fast up front.”
“We have Lane Elliot and Tyler Orman that will step up at anytime. Because it is more than just one player, we are only as good as the team is,” Bray said.
Kreed Hall gets the call at the running back spot, for the departed Fisher. Hall rushed for over 300 yards last season on 47 carries.
The offensive line is where the real questions begin for Ross. The only returning starter is junior guard Jonah Marshall, which leaves all the other positions open for battle in fall camp.
On the opposite side in a 4-2-5 set, the Wildcats will rely on senior defensive-end Isaiah Vargas and Hall from his linebacker spot to keep the opposing offense off the field. Hall recorded 83 tackles last season as a junior. Senior Levi Lowe will be looked on to anchor the defense from his defensive tackle spot along with the 6-foot-5, 330-pound Levi Lawson and Marshall at 285. Thomas will return to his defensive back position, where he totaled 44 tackles in 2021 to lead an inexperienced defensive backfield.
Doubters that they may have, the Wildcats have something to prove this season behind what could be an explosive team.
“We have definitely gotten bigger and stronger and we’re working harder than in years past,” said Lowe. “I think we’re going to surprise some people, especially in our district.”
Muskogee Phoenix
Thursday, Aug. 25, 2022
By Eric Shannon Phoenix Correspondent
A team that was once known as the Spuders has seen highs and lows throughout the history of Fort Gibson football, which this year reaches the century mark in Oklahoma’s oldest town.
In 1922 a former University of Oklahoma football player and law school graduate, Q.B. Boydstun, proposed to the Fort Gibson Schools Superintendent to begin a football program.
The school with no funding for such a project left Boydstun to find local funding for the team and he had to become the coach. Boydstun solicited those funds and purchased jerseys, pants and socks. Shoulder pads and helmets were a few years off.
Thirty-five young men that knew nothing about football suited up for the first official season at the Fort Gibson baseball park and the game was afoot.
The inaugural team played 10 games, winning just three, and lost a 7-6 heartbreaker to the Porum Panthers. It didn’t have an official mascot, and they were red and white just because that is what Boydstun happened to pick out. Some of the unofficial names for the team were the Cherokees and the Soldiers.
In 1923 the nickname became the Spuders courtesy of the Muskogee Phoenix Sports Editor, William Huff. This name was given because
at the time Fort Gibson was a major potato growing community.
How the Tigers came about is still a mystery. Most theorize that it was voted on by students.
While there’s never been a strong tradition of success, but rather a mix of highs and lows, the Tigers have produced 25 All-State football selections, 15 D-1 players and one NFL player in Teddy Lehman, who at Oklahoma won the Butkus and Bednarik Awards and All-American honors. Boydstun coached for two years with a 9-12-0 record, then came Jim Hendren for seven seasons (27-44-5), but made the postseason going 6-5 in 1964. Fast forward to 1969, John Bowden took over then posted the Tigers’ first district title in 1970 and first career winning record with 217-3 over three years.
Into the 1980s David West coached for six years but couldn’t muster much success. Then Jerry Kerr took over in 1985 for five years, trading the red and white for crimson and cream, imitating the University of Oklahoma in the process — triple option and all. Kerr did take the Tigers to the playoffs once, in 1985, losing to Muldrow 21-20 but failed to produce another winner.
Greg Gorman was going to be the savior in 1990 with two winning records and making the playoffs in his second year. However, 21
NO. 1: FORT GIBSON 24, CLINTON 23 (1999) — Down 14-0 early in a battle of 1-2, No. 2 Fort Gibson rallied behind Teddy Lehman’s three touchdown carries, the last with 1:18 to go, putting FGHS in its only-ever championship game.
NO. 2: FORT GIBSON 21, HILLDALE 20 (1992) — Michael Gugello took an option pitch from FGHS quarterback Chad Kirkhart and scored on a conversion with 5 seconds left, just after scoring from the 1. The TD was set up by Kirkhart’s pass to Bryce Minor. The Tigers lost both starters at offensive tackle, tight end, center and two linebackers and their kicker was playing with a broken big toe.
NO. 3: FORT GIBSON 42, SALLISAW 41, OT (1997) — No. 3 Sallisaw and the legendary coach Ron Lancaster led 35-14 before the Paul Wilson-led Tigers erupted for three touchdowns to force overtime. Lance Vann’s toss to a wide-open Eric Holuby was the game-winner. Lehman, then a sophomore, scored twice. It earned the Tigers their first district championship in 26 years.
NO. 4: FORT GIBSON 36, WAGONER 35 (2014) — Wagoner had rallied from a 14-0 deficit to lead 28-14 and again at 35-21 when Chris Walker scored for the fourth time on a run with 2:58 to get within a touchdown. Jordan London hit Will Rumbley from 16 yards out, then on the conversion with 34 seconds left. Wagoner quarterback Malcolm Rodriguez was intercepted by Colton Oliveras to secure the win.
NO. 5: FORT GIBSON 7, JAY 0 (1989) — The Tigers had lost 14 consecutive games, five to open the 1989 season. Jay entered the game No. 2 in the class. Coach Jerry Kerr changed from the wishbone to the i-formation and inserted Kirkhart at quarterback and Gugello at running back. Gugello finished with 171 yards rushing on 18 carries and Kirkhart had 134 yards passing, unheard of at the time for the FGHS run-oriented offense. Defensively, Bryan Holder intercepted three passes.
NO. 6: FORT GIBSON 20, STILWELL 13 (1997) — Fort Gibson’s first playoff win in 75 years of football. Nathan Marklow had two carries for 109 yards, one a 76-yard td.
NO. 7: FORT GIBSON 59, POTEAU 56 (2011) — Jon Cook batted down a Poteau pass as time expired after the Tigers and quarterback J.R. Singleton rolled up 526 yards of offense with running back Jake Gandara rushing for 228, 325 all-purpose yards.
NO. 8: FORT GIBSON 59, SALLISAW 42 (2012) — Gandara set a school rushing mark with 411 yards and six touchdowns. Fort Gibson finished with 529 rushing and 678 total yards.
NO. 9: FORT GIBSON 24, LOCUST GROVE 7 (1990) — Gugello rushed for 222 yards, senior defensive tackle Mike Reese recorded four sacks, and the Tigers dispatched fourth-ranked and 5-0 Locust Grove.
NO. 10: FORT GIBSON 28, COWETA 27 (2 OT) — In the 15th and last meeting between the two, the Tigers knocked off the No. 3 Tigers of a different color.
straight losses led to a 16-35-0 record over five years and sent him packing. Then came the old man and the son in
1995 — legendary Texas high school coach Paul Wilson and defensive co-
ordinator Lonnie Reed. The two each stayed four years at the helm, eight years total together, making the playoffs every year but one and making a championship run that fell short in the title game. The two combined for a 57-32-0 record, the best coaching span to date.
Jeff Taylor stepped in after Reed left in 2003 and kept the ship afloat with three consecutive playoff appearances, but things began to drop off and he ended with a 28-35-0 record after six years.
After D.J. Howell came and went, it was former Muskogee assistant James Singleton that seemed to come to the rescue in 2011. Singleton had a 33-140 record in four years, making the playoffs every year — his last to the semifinals, the best season since 1999.
Singleton’s offensive coordinator, Greg Whiteley, took over after he left and kept the Tigers in the playoffs five of his seven years but finished with a 34-41-0 record. That brings us to the 16th head coach in school history. In his first head-coaching job, Ryan Nolan takes over a program that has a 46 percent career winning percentage but is excited to be the Tiger’s 16th head football coach.
“It’s my greatest honor to coach this football program that turns 100 years old this year,” said Nolan. “I am humbled and blessed to be a part of this great program.”
Muskogee Phoenix
Thursday, Aug. 25, 2022
By Nick Hampton Phoenix Correspondent
Even though some of the big names are gone and there are only four returning starters on offense, don’t sell the Eufaula Ironheads short in 2022 coming off a 12-2
campaign that took them to the Class 2A semifinals.
“We’ll have a lot of new faces this year, but a lot of these guys
got a lot of experience last year because most of our games were decided by halftime,” said head coach Larry Newton Jr. “We talk about it all the time — the next guy up and that’s the way it’s going to be.
“I think our secret to success year after year starts in the summer, and we just work extremely hard. I demand a lot of our kids
and, for the most part, they’re up to the task and they can tell you it’s not easy being an Ironhead.”
The one big constant returning for Eufaula will be third-year quarterback Luke Adcock, a
two-time All-Phoenix selection who has accounted for over 4,000 yards and 41 touchdowns in the last two years playing just a half in many games. A standout in both football and baseball, Adcock admits that being on the diamond is his favorite sport as noted by his commitment to play at Seminole State
Last season: 12-2, 2A semifinalist.
Head coach: Larry Newton Jr., 11th season.
Staff:
next year. “Baseball has always been my favorite sport growing up. There’s just something about it but, of course, there’s also nothing like
Returning starters (4 offensive, 4 defensive, 1 specialist): Luke Adcock, Sr., QB, 6-3, 220; Kaden Bumgarner, Sr., OLB, 5-10, 185; Ontario Ellen, Sr., DE, 5-11, 195; Brett Pippinger, Sr., S, 6-0, 175; Draven Gragg, OL/DL, 6-3, 260; Rashon Watts, Jr., OL/DL, 6-0, 300; Bryan Lynn, So., K, 5-10, 170.
Emerging: Ransom Venables, OL, 6-2, 275, Ashton Kimzey, WR/DB, 6-3, 185; Gabe Mortenson, Jr., OL, 5-11, 260; Kaden Rice, So., S, 6-2, 190; Dresden Chiles, So., WR/DB, 5-10, 145; Carson Luna, So., OL/DL, 6-1, 275; Brayden Neill, Fr., TE/ LB, 6-3, 190; Hunter Fletcher, Fr., S, 5-10, 170; Jayden Ellen, Fr., OLB, 5-10, 170; Brnedeon Delaney, Fr., DE, 6-2, 180; Ledger Folsom, Fr., QB/DB, 5-10, 165.
Aug. 25, 2022
Head coach has first such job after 31 years as assistant
By Mike Kays mkays@muskogeephoenix.com
John Williams’ first head-coaching job in 32 seasons comes at a time where the winds of change are blowing into the flight pattern of the Warner Eagles.
Warner is moving up to Class 2A this season and will be paired with Vian, Okemah, Prague, Keys, Henryetta, Roland and Sequoyah in District 2A-5.
They’re coming off their best season (9-2) since an 11-1 mark in 2012.
“In Class A we had two really tough programs to battle in Gore and Colcord. Here, we’ll have a whole district full of those games so we’ve got to be strong and we’ve got to be fit week in, week out,” Williams said. “We’re not afraid of anybody. And after a successful summer of lifting, 7-on-7 and team camps, we’re excited.”
Williams is the Eagles’ third head coach in three seasons. He
Warner quarterback Jace Jackson gets off a pass in a season-opening win in 2021. He was injured in week 10 and missed the playoffs.
takes over for Rafe Watkins, who was at the helm one season after seven years at Muskogee. Williams was on Watkins’ last staff at MHS in 2020.
Josh McMillan, another member of Watkins’ staff at Muskogee and then at Warner a year ago, was in the mix
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along with Williams to replace Watkins, but recently left to go to Hilldale. Another coach with similar ties is Mike Combs, who was a lay coach when Muskogee reached the semifinals in 2016. Charlie Parks and Cooper Mitchell both have Warner roots.
“I’ve coached 31 years as a position coach or coordinator. This being my first head-coaching job, there’s some questions I had to work out,” Williams said. “They’ll feel secure with me because they know I care about all of them, and that’s where it starts.”
Ty Vinson, one of the team’s leaders who on offense is moving off the line to the fullback spot, said the third straight transition at the top has been seamless.
“It’s been smooth for me,” he said. “I think you learn a lot from everybody that comes in new. There’s definitely no turmoil. That’s what makes Warner great. Everyone is pointed in
Muskogee Phoenix
Thursday, Aug. 25, 2022
the right direction and moving together.”
Warner’s run in Class A a year ago was derailed in the opening round largely due to the absence of its quarterback. Jace Jackson, who both rushed and threw for over 1,000 yards in his sophomore campaign, was injured in week 10 and did not play in the postseason. Warner was prematurely one and done, but has Jackson and seven other starters, including much of the offensive line.
Defensive Player of the Year in 2021 with 153 tackles and was also the District A-8 Defensive Player of the Year.
“I’ll have to step into more of a leadership role, but we won’t miss much of a beat,” Parks said.
“We don’t need to sink down. We can be ourselves and go compete with anybody,” he said. “It’s still football. We’ve got guys coming in as talented as the kids last year. They’ll come in and fill those roles and we’ll go with a full steam ready to take on 2A.”
Carson Parks is a key returnee on defense. He was the Small School
Last season: 9-2, lost in A first round.
Head coach: John Williams, 1st year.
They’ll need to replace Mason Jim, the school’s all-time rushing yards leader. Preston Cannon is that guy. He rushed for 500 yards last year. Caden Thompson is the most experienced receiver returning. He was in a reserve role there a year ago.
Despite his short tenure, Watkins and the Eagles will cross paths. Watkins left to go to Prague, his hometown. They’ll meet in Warner on Oct. 21.
“That’ll be a fun game,” Thompson said. “We love Coach Watkins, we loved having him here. There’s nothing there against him for leaving. It’ll be fun.”
Staff: Charlie Parks, defensive coordinator; Mike Combs, receivers/defensive backs; Cooper Mitchell, quarterbacks/free safeties.
Returning starters (6 offensive, 5 defensive, 2 specialists): Jace Jackson, Jr., QB, 6-1, 185; Ty Vinson, Jr., FB (OL in 2021)/DE; Carson Parks, TE/LB/P, Sr., 6-0, 207; Jacob Girty, Sr., C, 5-10, 290; Braxton Williams, Sr., LG, 5-7, 175; Austin Spradlin, So., RG, 5-8, 180; Preston Cannon, So., OLB, 5-5, 160; Rowdy Girty, NG, Sr., 5-10, 290; Julian Hensley, Sr., SS, 5-11, 180; Keden Moseley, Jr., K, 5-9, 150.
Emerging: Caden Thompson, Sr., WR, 6-0, 170; Lubbock Drake, So., LB, 5-10, 170; Cannon, RB.
Muskogee Phoenix
Thursday, Aug. 25, 2022
By Eric Shannon Phoenix Correspondent
Situated in Class 2A for as long as the current Haymakers have been living, the football gods smiled on Haskell in the last realignment.
While the enrollment dropped Haskell to Class A, football numbers have gone the other way. In 2021, Haskell had 21 on the roster in a 4-6 season.
Entering 2022, they have more than 40, and second-year head coach Phil McWilliams can hardly hold back his enthusiasm.
“We are a little more suited for the Class A,” said McWilliams. “We had some growing pains last year, finishing 4-6 and missing the playoffs but we competed and got a lot of kids a lot playing time, and many had to grow up fast.
quarterback Brannon Westmoreland had over 1,500 yards and 15 touchdowns but will be looked upon to lead with both air and ground, having rushed for four touchdowns a year ago.
“We learned a lot last season and I think that we have really grown, and I am excited to see who steps up for us,” said Westmoreland. “We have some talent, we have some younger kids in spots
but they’re working hard so far this summer, I just have to get the ball to them.”
Primary targets are 6-2 senior (202 yards in 2021) Lane Mann and junior Lucas King (317 yards).
“I think that we’re going to turn a lot of heads,” said Mann. “We have a lot of kids buying into what we’re doing. The whole town is excit-
Last season: 4-6.
Head coach: Phil McWilliams, 2nd year.
Staff: Isaac McWilliams, defensive coordinator; Mike Jones, defensive line; Paul McCrary, wide receivers; Tony Springer, defensive backs. Returning starters (7 offense, 7 defense, 2 specialists): Brannon Westmoreland, Sr., QB/K/P, 6-5, 195; Lane Mann, Sr., WR/DB, 6-2, 170; Junior Faul, Sr., OL/DE, 6-2, 220; Lucas King, Jr., WR/CB, 5-8, 145; Briar Payne, Jr., OL/NG, 6-3, 270; Briley Love, Jr., WR/ DB/RET, 6-1, 150; Colby Collins, So., OL, 5-10, 190; Logan Jones, Jr., LB, 5-8, 140; Hunter Powell, Jr., LB, 6-1, 150.
Emerging: Tomas Graber, Sr., LB/RB, 5-11, 200; Dylan Ozinga, Jr., WR/S, 6-2, 150; Ryker Porter, Fr., OL/DL, 6-3, 267; Pedro Diaz, So., WR/CB, 5-9, 135.
“That experience is what is going to help us this season. We have some veterans, but we also have a lot of young inexperienced kids and freshman that we’re going to need to step up.”
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Muskogee Phoenix
Thursday, Aug. 25, 2022
CLASS 6AI
1. Bixby
2 Jenks
3. Union
4. Owasso
5. Broken Arrow
CLASS 6AII
1. Stillwater
2. Choctaw
3. Deer Creek
4. Booker T
5. Muskogee
CLASS 5A
1. McAlester
2. Carl Albert
3. Coweta
4. Collinsville
5. Guthrie
6. Midwest City
7. Del City
8. Ardmore
9. Piedmont
10. Sapulpa
CLASS 4A
1. Cushing
2. Poteau
3. Tuttle
4. Clinton
5. Wagoner
6. Blanchard
7. Broken Bow
8. Hilldale
9. Bethany
10. Ada
CLASS 3A
1. Lincoln Chrisitan
2. Heritage Hall
3. Holland Hall
4. Verdigris
5. Plainview
6. Perkins
ed for this season.”
Senbior Tomas Graber will shoulder the run game load behind linemen Junior Faul, Briar Payne, Colby Collins and freshman Ryker Porter. Paul is the lone senior, Payne is a junior and Collins a sophomore.
The elder Faul will be looked upon as a two-way leader in the trenches. He had 56 tackles and four sacks last season.
7. Berryhill
8. Marlow
9. Cascia Hall
10. Kingfisher
CLASS 2A
1. Washington 2. Beggs
3. Rejoice
4. Victory
5. Millwood
6. Pawhuska
7. OCS
8. Crossings Christian 9. Vian 10. Eufaula
CLASS A 1. Ringling
2. Cashion
3. Hominy
4. Fairview
5. Tonkawa
6. Hinton
7. Gore
8, Mangum
9. Colcord 10. Woodland
CLASS B 1. Laverne
2. Dewar
3. Seiling
4. Balko 5. Shattuck
CLASS C 1. Timberlake
3. Tipton
3. Waynoka
4. Tyrone
5. Maud
Continued from Page 19
Friday night lights,” the senior signal caller said.
The receiving corp will undergo some changes with the departure of All-Phoenix MVP receiver Khelil Deere to NEO. On the plus side though is the return of senior Brett Pippenger who was limited to a defensive role last year due to a broken wrist and the emergence of sophomore Dresden Chiles.
“Dresden is probably our most athletic player overall,” said Newton. “He can run backwards as fast as most of kids can run forwards and he’s pretty strong for a 145-pound kid. He can bench press 200 pounds and squat 300 pounds.”
Running back duties will fall to senior Kaden Bumgarner, a converted receiver, with Ontario Ellen serving as a backup.
“Kayden’s proven himself over the summer by being there everyday and working his tail off,” said Newton.
The line will also undergo some changes this year with the loss of standout performers Ty Dodd and Johnny Burton, but there are two solid returners in juniors Rashon Watts and Draven Gragg.
“We graduated a good line, but we’ve got a lot of talent and a lot of big guys to put together and I think we’ve got the talent to be better than in previous years and set us up for the future,” said Gragg.
The heart of the Ironhead defense will be anchored by Pippenger at safety, who had 145 tackles last year, Ellen, a defensive end with 85 tackles, and Bumgarner at outside linebacker who had 78 stops with Gragg and Watts working in the trenches.
Schedule wise, Eufaula looks forward to a couple of early games against perennial power Vian who they haven’t beaten since the series started in 2018 and then the McIntosh County showdown with Checotah before moving on to compete in District 2A-6 with a 27-game district winning streak on the line.
As Adcock begins his final season of football, he looked back and ahead on his career as an Ironhead.
“I’d like to pass for 25 touchdowns and 2,500 yards this year and be a strong senior leader,” he said. “And while I would like to be remembered as a good athlete here, I’d also like people to remember that there’s more to life than sports and that I was a good guy, a good Christian, and set good examples for others to follow.”
“We don’t have the biggest kids and we don’t have a lot of experience on the offensive and defensive lines, so it will be up to us to coach up the younger kids and get them ready.” Faul said. “We have experience here and there but we need to get everyone ready to play.”
Junior Logan Jones will lead a talented linebacker corps alongside Graber and junior Hunter Powell. Jones recoreded 74 tackles last season with two
interceptions.
Mann, King and Junior Briley Love will solidify the backend for the Haymakers.
“Defense is going to be our strong point. We forced 28 turnovers last year and we want be that type of unit this year,” said McWilliams. “We’re going to be aggressive on defense and fly to the ball and make plays.”
Muskogee Phoenix
Thursday, Aug. 25, 2022
By Nick Hampton Phoenix Correspondent
As Brandon Tyler enters his sixth season as the head coach at Gore, the expectations for the Pirates may be higher than ever for the 2022 football season.
been as sharp as our opponents, but with Haskell and Pocola coming into our district this year, I don’t think that will be a problem.”
watching our guys and watching the pros play and watching a lot of film and feel like I’m ready for it,” said Cooper.
Gore has been eliminated in the second round of the Class A playoffs the past two years, but with 10 starters back on each side of the ball this year, Pirates head coach Brandon Tyler, in his sixth season at Gore, expects to snap that streak.
“Most of the starters coming back are threeor four-years starters so we’re ready to get started,” he said. “One thing I think that hurt us last year was that our starters didn’t have to play a complete game from week five until the second round of the playoffs so we might not have
One of those players that will have to be replaced is at the quarterback position, but junior Noah Cooper is no stranger to that spot.
“Noah has had a good summer. He’s done his time in a backup role and probably would have played more last year except for a season-ending injury early in the season,” said the Pirates’ boss.
For the past couple of years Gore has been a run-first offense, averaging 338 yards per game rushing led by senior running back Gunner Dozier, who had over 1.200 yards and 23 touchdowns in 2021.
Cooper says he has learned a lot by watching Weston Shanks and Zane Craighead run the offense the last couple of years.
“I’ve learned a lot just
Last season: 11-1, lost A 2nd round. Head coach: Brandon Tyler.
“We know what we’ve got with Gunner running the ball, but Noah throws the ball really well and we have four quality receivers returning so we’ll see how that shakes out,” Tyler said.
Defensively, Gore’s returnees include senior linebackers Dayne Perryman. who recorded 86 tackles including nine
Staff: Eric Douthit, defensive coordinator; Tyler Lewis, special teams receivers, defensive backs. Greg Bobbitt, quarterbacks, running backas and linebackers.
Returning starters (10 offensive,10 defensive, 3 specialists): Gunner Dozier, Sr., RB, 6-1, 210; Jackson Duke, Sr., RB/LB,/S/K, 5-11, 180; Journey Shells, Jr., WR, 6-2, 165; Ben Kirkpatrick, Sr., WR, 6-1, 170; Blue Steward, Sr., WR/DB, 5-10, 170; Gabe Dozier, Sr., OG/DE, 6-1, 250; Layne Ward, Jr., C, 6-0, 225; Garrett Douthit, Sr., OT,/DL 6-3, 280; Nick Wolf, Sr., OG/DL, 6-0, 270; Cas Moore, Sr., OT, 6-0, 260; Dayne Perryman, Sr., LB, 5-11, 190; Alex Hallum, Sr., DE, 6-1, 250; Keigan Reid, Sr., DB, 6-0, 175; Tyler Lane, Sr., DB, 5-9, 155; Blane Barnes, Sr., DB, 5-11, 160; Wyatt Marrel, Sr., DE, 5-11, 190; Christian O’Connor, Sr., K, 6-1, 160. Emerging: Noah Cooper, Jr., QB/LB, 6-2, 195; Liam Edwards, Sr., WR/DB, 5-10, 170; Hunter McGee, Jr., WR/DB, 5-10, 165; Aidan Dickerson, Sr., TE/CB, 6-3, 180; Blaidn McCartney, Fr., RB/LB, 5-10, 175.
for loss last year, and Alex Hallum, who had 65 stops in 2021. The line has two-way starters Gabe Dozier and Garrett Douthit, both All-Phoenix in 2021, while the secondary, which picked off 13 passes last year, is headed up by the return of seniors Tyler Lane who contributed 73 tackles last year, and Keigan Reid, who had four picks, which he attributes to his ability to read receivers coming off the line.
“I can pretty well tell by their body language if the ball is coming to them or not and I also study a lot of film and scouting reports,” said Reid.
Lane is one of 21 seniors and as a leader, feels that instilling a sense of mental toughness is just as important as being physically tough.
“I think we have to instill mental toughness early knowing that once you get into the playoffs the people you play are at least as talented as you, so being mentally tough can be the difference,” said Lane.
Tyler has coached Gore into the playoffs every year he’s been there and will shoot for his 175th career win against Wilburton. His philosophy hasn’t changed since win one.
“Just like always
you’ve got to stay healthy, you’ve got to have a little luck and you’ve got to give it all you got to have a great year,” said the veteran coach.
But Gunner Dozier takes it a step further for 2022.
“I think this could be one of the best teams to ever come out of Gore. We’ve got all of these seniors who have been playing together forever and we’re hungry,” said the talented running back.
Muskogee Phoenix
Thursday, Aug. 25, 2022
By Mike Kays mkays@muskogeephoenix.com
Porter’s Pirates better hope the spring wasn’t an omen for the fall.
It’s normal to have injuries, but this spring and into the summer, the Pirates’ injuries have been on the coaching staff.
coach Denton Long tore his Achilles in April, and this month, his father, David, also on staff, is having knee surgery.
With the comings and goings and rehabilitations of everyone, it’s been a short-handed staff.
Defensive coordinator Travis Hollis torn his patella tendon in February. Alan Cox, the special teams coordinator, tore his ACL in May. Between those, head
“It’s been hard them not being here all the time,” sophomore lineman Miguel Chavez said. “But we’ve still been up there as players every day working out in the weight room.”
Long said it’s been the dedication of guys like Chavez, fellow lineman Kyle Anderson, linebacker/tight end Logan Roberts and quarterback Bradyn Israel that have helped navigate the choppy waters.
“We have an attendance policy and all those guys made that policy and served as examples to everyone.”
Chavez in his first year of football was the Newcomer of the Year in District A-8.
“They were the leaders in the weight room all summer,” said Long.
Long enters his second season at the helm, having replaced Prentice Joseph when the latter joined Travis Hill’s staff at Muskogee. Despite those absences off and on due to the staff injuries, Anderson says the Pirates have settled into the transition.
“He’s been around the system,” said Long. “Caden Willard did a good job in his place, but Bradyn is a different athlete who because of his size is able to open up our offense with the running game.”
That run game will also have Camden Price, who had 800 yards last season as a sophomore. He also had 80 plus tackles and 11 sacks from his linebacker spot.
These Pirates met the surgical sword
• Defensive coordinator Travis Hollis torn his patella tendon in February.
“Definitely year one we were trying to figure out how Coach Long does things. Coach Jo was very hyper, a good coach and everything else. Second year, we’ve locked it in on how everything and everyone works now and I think we’ll do really well.”
The Pirates reached the playoffs last year despite being below .500 at 4-7. One of their non-district losses was a 40-0 loss against Haskell, which drops from 2A into the district this season.
• Alan Cos, the special teams coordinator, tore his ACL in May.
• Head coach Denton Long tore his Achilles in April
• Assistant coach David Long, the head coach’s father, had knee surgery in August.
This should be Israel’s second season at quarterback, but the injury bug got him in the first scrimmage last year. Listed at 6-3, 225, Israel suffered a knee injury and never returned.
Last season: 4-7.
“They beat up on us pretty good, but the game after that we started turning things around and had a better year,” Long said, referring to a three-game win streak following that loss.
That’s the way they want to start in 2022.
Head coach: Denton Long, 2nd year.
Staff: Travis Hollis, defensive coordinator; Alan Cox, special teams, defensive backs, receivers, Caleb Cox, defensive backs and receivers, Patrick Reeder, line; David Long, offensive line, linebackers.
Returning starters (5 offensive, 5 defensive): Camden Price, Jr., RB/LB, 5-11, 205; Kyle Anderson, Sr., OT/DT, 6-0, 260; Shawn Byrd, Sr., C, 5-8, 240; Miguel Chavez, So., T/NG, 6-4, 260; Billi Wisely, Jr., WR, 5-7, 140; Mason Seaton, Sr., CB, 5-9, 140.
Emerging: Bradyn Israel, So., QB, 6-3, 220.
Muskogee Phoenix
Thursday, Aug. 25, 2022
Muskogee: Okie Country 101.7 FM (radio), MuskogeeAthletics.org, Rougher Sports Network on YouTube (webcast)
Hilldale: Hilldale Buzz on YouTube
Fort Gibson: FortGibsonTigers.tv
Wagoner: WagonerTV.com
Haskell: NFHS Network
Warner: Warner Public Schools Events on YouTube.
Player you most look up to:
“Malcolm Rodriguez”
“Jordan London and Grayland Dunnams
Brett Pippenger, Eufaula
Hunter Branch, Fort Gibson
“Breakfast.”
Your go-to pregame ritual:
“My dad.”
“My center.”
Favorite pre-game meal:
“I would say all foods are my favorite.”
“Peanut butter crackers.”
Caynen David, Hilldale
Jonathan Mitcham, Midway
Braylon Roberson, Wagoner
“Sit in my locker, put my AirPods in and listen to music and think about our game rituals.”
Bradyn Henry, Muskogee
“Rewatch game film and make sure I didn’t miss anything.”
Jace Jackson, Warner
“I like to get alone and pray and get my head right.”
Drew Brown, Porum
Chandler Long, Webbers Falls
Lane Mann, Haskell
Biggest temptation to breaking training: “Going fishing.”
“Nothing. I’m staying focused.”
“Being tired.”
Jackson Duke, Gore
Jayvin Bray, Checotah
Logan Roberts,Porter
Purchase our Discount Card from Hilldale or Muskogee high schools.
(918) 687-7061
M–F 8am–6pm • Sat 8am–2pm 721 S. York, Muskogee, OK
By Mike Kays mkays@muskogeephoenix.com
Larry Childers is returning to the place of his first head coaching job back in 1982, hoping to give the Porum community something to smile about after just two seasons of four wins since 2014, and a 1-9 campaign a year ago.
“Some of my former players contacted me last spring and told me the job was open,” he said. “I was an assistant at Morris and went there one year and it was different. We had some wearing gold helmets, others wearing maroon helmets. Uniforms were mix and match, we didn’t look the same. Now you look around and that’s not the case, and they also have a nice stadium and bleachers since then.”
Now it’s about the quality of play, and Childers will hit his squad up with some changes toward that end.
“Every week we’ll have a new playbook,” said
quarterback Seth Brown. “Coach is going to do everything he can to help us be a step ahead of every defense we go against. I think it’ll be one of the greatest learning experiences of my career.”
That’s the effort Childers brings. That’s also what he expects — an end to things like skipping practice and giving up easy.
“If I do my job right, which has to do with preparation and fundamentals, I think we’ve got a chance to win,” he said. “As a player, if you invest yourself in it, it’s harder to give up. If you play a game and play bad, if you don’t feel bad about it, you haven’t invested yourself.
what we can do.”
Braden Stinnett, a tailback and defensive lineman, has seen his coach’s determination.
“I would say the biggest difference I’ve seen is the discipline,” he said. “We run a play now and if we mess up, we run it again until we perfect it, pretty much.”
The 68-year-old head coach had stops at several area schools — Hilldale, Warner, Checotah and Webbers Falls. He’s been out of coaching since Coalgate in 2016. This will be his 41st year.
“I expect them to lay it on the line. We want to represent Porum in a class way. We want people in the stadium. Just give us a chance, let us show
“Once you do this for so long, it’s part of life,” he said. “A lot of people might think it’s strange to see a 68-year-old man come out of retirement like this, but I was already teaching. I just added a little more extra-curricular activity.”
Last season: 1-9.
Head coach: Larry Childers, 1st year, 41st overall. Staff: Jimmy Brown, assistant.
Returning starters (6 offensive, 6 defensive, 1 specialist): Seth Brown, Sr., QB/FS, 6-1, 175; Bo Chapman, So, OL/DL, 5-11, 225; Drew Brown, So., FB/DE, 6-0, 230; Cooper Franklin, So., TE/LB, 6-1, 225; Lane Bailey, Jr., C/DL, 6-0, 230’ Braden Stennett, Sr., TB/DL, 6-0, 5-9, 145; Jason Dill, So., K, 6-0, 245.
Emerging: J.R. Robinson, Jr., TB/WR, 6-0, 135; Luke Johnson, Fr., TB/WR, 5-10, 140; Gabe Scarberry, Fr., 5-9, 145, FB/CB.
Muskogee Phoenix
Thursday, Aug. 25, 2022
By Mike Kays mkays@muskogeephoenix.com
“He doesn’t have the same tools, and teamwise we don’t have quite the speed as we did. We’ll have to do something to control the tempo. So being a rundominated defense will ease that tradition.”
Midway coach Steven Corn on Gerval Washington, brother of two-time Small School Offensive Player of the Year, Geral Washington
For the Midway Chargers, it’s a season of change.
Dominant in District C-4 in recent years, the Chargers move up to Class B this fall, missing much of what helped them have much of the success they’ve enjoyed over a playoff run of six consecutive seasons including two quarterfinal runs — one a 78-68 loss to eventual champion Tyrone two seasons ago.
Taking over for a four-year starter at quarterback in Geral Washington is his brother, Gervon Washington, and with the change, a different offense.
“In Geral we had a guy who had a great arm and was very elusive,” said Midway coach Steve Corn. “He knew the position. His little brother, he’s not the same player, no one will be, but we’ll do our best to make him that way.
“But they are different kids. He doesn’t have the same tools, and teamwise we don’t have quite the speed as we did. We’ll have to do something to control the tempo. So being a run-dominated defense will ease that tradition.”
The Chargers will go with a ball-control approach.
The younger Washington was a tight end, and looks like one — strong and physical. He’ll look to
Last season: 8-4, lost in C second round.
Head coach: Steve Corn, 2nd year.
Staff: Returning starters (4 offensive,
capitalize on that as he fills the shoes of a two-time All-Phoenix Small School Offensive Player of the Year.
“He just told me to keep my head up, don’t get down and serve as an example for the entire team,” said Washington. The offense will employ a lot of read-option and traditional option-pitch around a line that does return everyone. Guard Jonathan Mitcham will be one with primary responsibilities of being a pulling guard in changing blocking schemes.
“I’ll definitely be moving a lot more than I used to be,” said Mitcham.
Midway will welcome back Webbers Falls as an in-county rival on the high school stage — despite being out of the same district in the last several years the two schools have continued to face other at the junior high level. The Chargers will have a third county team in Porum.
The powerhouses in District B-5 are Dewar and Caddo. The Chargers will have five non-district weeks to ready themselves for that road.
“It’ll be a challenge,” Corn said. “We lost heavy in terms of multi-year starters and have to have new guys in new positions in many places. But these kids are more than capable of stepping up to the challenge.”
3 defensive): Gervon Washington, So. QB/LBDE, 6-1, 225; Jonathan Reed, Sr., C, 6-2, 320; Jonathan Mitcham, Sr., G, 6-4, 280; Wauker Holingshed,
Sr., G, 5-10, 260; Samuel Herrera, Sr., LB/DE, 5-10, 220; Luke Collins, Jr., DL, 6-2, 270.
Emerg-
Thierry, Sr., WR/DB, 5-7, 145; Bryson McPherson, Sr., HB/LB, 5-10, 220; Cooper McCullar, OL/DL, 5-9, 220, Sr. Corn Mitchum Reed Herrera
ing: Tristan Wolfe, So., HB/WR/ DB, 6-0, 175; Jaden
By Eric Shannon Phoenix Correspondent
Stocked and determined might be the best way to describe Webbers Falls in 2022.
Every starter from a 6-4 team returns and Warriors head coach Trent Holt thinks this might be his best team in his seven seasons there.
“We just missed the playoffs last year and we had a couple of games that we should have won, simply put,” said Holt. “We have everyone back this year, a big senior and junior class this year and I’ve really seen improvement with our workouts and attitude this summer.
“We expect to have a very good season and compete for the district title with everyone we have back.”
That’s a bold statement in the tough District B-5 that has powerhouse Dewar, Caddo, Quinton and adds Class C stronghold Midway this season.
Three-year starter, junior quarterback Maddox Shelby accounted for 1,600 yards rushing and 660 yards passing, brings poise, experience, and leader-
ship to the quarterback position.
“We are looking to expand on what we did last year and make a push deep into the playoffs this year,” said Shelby. “I think we have a chip on our shoulders because we should have been in the playoffs but missed some opportunities.”
Stepping in at running back is senior Blaize Herriman who racked up 421 yards rushing and eight touchdowns.
Sophomore Zane Nolan saw limited action last year as a freshman but will get time to spell Herriman this season and is one to keep an eye on.
“With all of our returning starters, and I am seeing a lot more maturity this year versus last year,” said Herriman. “We have some kids that can really add to our team like Zane.”
One of Shelby’s targets will be 6-2 senior Caden Dishman who had 14 catches and 241 yards receiving with five touchdowns last
season with fellow senior Riley Ogg. Shoring up the offensive line are senior Chandler Long and sophomore Aiden Turley.
Defensively the Warriors are equally stacked with Shelby and senior Chandler Long at linebacker. Shelby led the team last year with 68 tackles with Long adding 50. A fouryear starter in Dishman and the younger Turley will solidify the front of the defense from their end positions while junior Ben Ward returns at defensive tackle.
“I prefer to hit and I enjoy going after the quarterbacks,” said a laughing Dishman. “I think that our defense is going to be really good this year and I can’t wait.”
Another pair of returning starters are Ogg and Nolan in the secondary.
“We have great kids and we’re building that team chemistry; we’re getting to where we need to be,” said Holt. “They are understanding to win the play, win the day. I think that if we do that, we will be successsful.”
Last season: 6-4.
Head coach: Trent Holt.
Staff: Hunter Holt, offensive coordinator, quarterbacks and running backs, linebackers; Steve Shelby, receivers and defensive backs.
Returning starters (7 offensive, 7 defensive): Maddux Shelby, Jr., QB/LB, 5-9, 165; Blaize Herriman, Sr., RB/LB, 5-8, 165; Caden Dishman, Sr., TE/DE, 6-2, 220; Chandler Long, Sr., G/LB, 5-8, 160; Aiden Turley, Sr., G/DE, 6-0, 190; Ben Ward, Jr., DE, 6-1, 230; Riley Ogg, Sr., WR/DB, 6-2, 190; Zane Nolan, So., RB/DB, 5-9, 155.
Continued from Page 4
So $3 million was spent on 20 acres obtained from Bacone College, the result being what you see now. The space was tighter than the original tract targeted, and placement of the field house had been considered in alternative locations, one being the parking lot in front of the Fine Arts Building. Instead that will be parking, just as the lot next to Ron Milam Gymnasium and the lots east of the campus will be.
The parking lot serving Ollie’s and MiniMax will also be, and busses will shuttle fans who choose not to utilize the sidewalk and stretch their legs. That shuttle, Mendenhall suggested, might re-
main an option beyond the completion of everything.
“We want to create an experience here that goes beyond the football game itself,” he said.
Eventually, parking will be added beyond the north end of the stadium.
But for now, it’s all piecemeal, something the eye can only appreciate with imagination or some online virtual reality tours.
But at Muskogee, where as the phone greeting says, all decisions are made with students in mind, we push forward.
Football first. But even better experiences are ahead.
“This is a legacy project,” Mendenhall said. “It changes the image and face of our schools,
and it began with a committee that while I had a vision of my own, they had a bigger vision and were even more determined that we had to do something big here at the high school.”
Parker can see it through that dust — again, figuratively speaking.
“I think when people show up, I think they’ll start to see— I walk it every day, and I was telling my wife yesterday it’s one of the most impressive complexes I’ve ever been in,” Parker said. “I’ve played at every single level, all around the country, all around the world. When you talk about Muskogee having this level of a complex, it’s a feather in the cap here.
“It’s not perfect now, but it will be.”
Muskogee Phoenix
Thursday, Aug. 25, 2022
year — the coaches picked Baylor to repeat.
NORMAN — There is a different vibe around the Oklahoma program this year.
The Sooners’ run of conference championships ended at six last season with a loss to Oklahoma State that cost them a spot in the Big 12 title game. Coach Lincoln Riley then quickly left for Southern California and quarterbacks Caleb Williams and Spencer Rattler transferred elsewhere.
Oklahoma hired Clemson defensive coordinator Brent Venables to steady the ship, but with all the movement, the Sooners aren’t even favored to win the conference this
That doesn’t matter to Venables, who has been focused on the process heading into the ninth-ranked Sooners’ opener Sept. 3 against UTEP.
He has a big-picture approach and expects to eventually have the kind of success the Sooners had when he was an assistant with the program from 1999 to 2011, which included a national title in 2000.
“Here we are, fall camp 2022, first season,” he said. “Our coaches and players and our staff have worked incredibly hard, relentlessly, trying to build for this season and beyond. And so I couldn’t be more excited about what’s in front of us.”
The Sooners have a new quar-
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Associated Press
STILLWATER —Oklahoma State came within inches of winning the Big 12 title and likely claiming a spot in the College Football Playoff last season.
The 12th-ranked Cowboys believe they can go further this season after a heartbreaking 21-16 loss to Baylor in the conference title game last December. They finished last season with a 12-2 record and No. 7 final ranking and take high hopes into this season.
“I feel like we have so much talent in so many areas,” quarterback Spencer Sanders said. “Hopefully, we can come together and get to that Big 12
championship game like we did last year and take it all the way.”
Sanders is back for his fourth season. He’s already among the school’s all-time statistical leaders in several categories, and he’s coming off a monster game in the Fiesta Bowl. He passed for 371 yards and four touchdowns and ran for 125 yards in a 3735 win over Notre Dame.
Last season, one of the nation’s best defenses carried much of the load for the Cowboys. This season, Sanders believes the team will be more balanced. He’s one of 10 offensive starters returning.
“It’s time to show people what this offense can do,” he said. “We have to take care of the little things so that when the big things come, the lit-
(See next page)
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terback in Central Florida transfer Dillon Gabriel. The preseason Big 12 Newcomer of the Year passed for more than 8,000 yards and 70 touchdowns while leading some of the nation’s most productive offenses. He likes the team surrounding him, both at the skill positions and on the line, and he’s not shying away from high expectations.
“The excitement’s real,” Gabriel said. “People say they’re excited. But I’m truly excited because there’s just a bunch that we can do in every position.”
Many of the players have not been in action together, but Venables believes hard work will make up for it.
“We want a confident, physical, tough, blue-collar work ethic team,” he said. “Coming out of fall camp, I want our guys to
tle things take care of the big things.”
Sanders will get help from Dominic Richardson. The sophomore gained 239 yards rushing and 54 yards receiving last season. He spent his previous years learning from star running backs Chuba Hubbard and Jaylen Warren. Now, he’s ready to shine.
“There is a little bit of pressure, but not as much because I’ve been working to this point for a long time,” Richardson said. “I knew one year this would come and now, this is the year.”
The defense should be stout again despite losing linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez and safety Kolby Harvell-Peel — both all-conference selections. Defensive lineman Collin Oliver and safety Jason Taylor II are preseason All-Big 12 picks.
It all leads to high hopes for
Muskogee Phoenix
be incredibly confident through the work that we put in over the last several months.”
Venables’ staff includes some highly accomplished assistants in offensive coordinator Jeff Lebby and defensive coordinator Ted Roof. Lebby, who also is the quarterbacks coach, led one of the nation’s top offenses at Ole Miss last season. Roof, also is the linebackers coach, followed Venables from Clemson.
Oklahoma running back Eric Gray put on 10 pounds in the offseason to position himself to handle a greater workload as the clear starter. The senior is listed at 211 pounds.
Kennedy Brooks was the primary ballcarrier last season, but Gray still managed to rush for 412 yards and gain 229 yards receiving.
a Cowboys program that beat Oklahoma last season for the first time since 2014.
“This is a different team, but we still are capable and have the players to go just as far if not farther than we did last year,” safety Thomas Harper said.
Derek Mason has taken over as defensive coordinator now that Jim Knowles has gone to take the same position at Ohio State. Mason was defensive coordinator at Auburn in 2021. He was the head coach at Vanderbilt from 2014 to 2020 and was defensive coordinator at Stanford before that.
“It’s been smooth,” linebacker Mason Cobb said. “I love the way he coaches. He coaches everyone the same, from walk-ons to starters. I love how we are doing things.”
Presley time?
“The room is going to start with EG,” Lebby said. “Eric has done an unbelievable job. The guy’s a pro. Everything he does is in a professional manor. Could not be more excited about where he’s at and what he’s going to be able to do for us this fall.”
Marvin Mims caught 32 passes for 705 yards and five scores last season. He stayed with the Sooners, even though Mario Williams transferred to USC, Jadon Haselwood left for Arkansas and Austin Stogner transferred to South Carolina.
Oklahoma assistant head coach Cale Gundy announced his resignation on Aug. 7, and the school said the next day that Gundy uttered a racially charged word multiple times while reading off a player’s
The Cowboys lost All-Big 12 receiver Tay Martin, but Brennan Presley is positioned to be the next great Oklahoma State wideout. He had 50 catches for 619 yards and five touchdowns last season, including 10 catches for 137 yards against Notre Dame.
He might not be the only Presley who puts up numbers. Younger brother Braylin, a true freshman, is a four star receiver.
The Cowboys should have no problem pressuring quarterbacks this season with a dynamic defensive line that should rank among the nation’s best.
Oliver led the Big 12 with 11.5 sacks as a true freshman last season. Brock Martin, a second-team all-conference pick last season along with Oliver, had nine sacks. Tyler Lacy had 11.5 tackles for loss. Trace Ford, a dominant pass rusher who
Thursday, Aug. 25, 2022
device during a film session the previous week. Gundy had been with the program since 1999.
Venables said L’Damian Washington, who had been an offensive analyst, will coach receivers on an interim basis: “He’s already had incredible relationships built with these guys and trust and really a deep understanding of who they are as young men.”
Former Texas Tech coach Matt Wells and former Oklahoma receiver Nick Basquine will assist Washington.
Oklahoma visits old rival Nebraska on Sept. 17. There’s the annual showdown against Texas in Dallas on Oct. 8. Two of the biggest matchups are at home — Nov. 5 against No. 10 Baylor and Nov. 19 against No. 12 Oklahoma State. Run the table and a return to the playoff could be in the cards.
missed last season with an injury, is back.
Redshirt freshman Gunnar Gundy — coach Mike Gundy’s son — is a reserve quarterback for the Cowboys. Coach Gundy said he lets quarterbacks coach Tim Rattay handle the teaching.
“It’s best for me to stay away from them and let (Rattay) coach him and let him function throughout the day,” coach Gundy said. “I don’t know if I’m right because it’s the first time I’ve done it, but I just stay away and let it all take place.”
Oklahoma State opens Sept. 1 against Central Michigan and then gets a home game against Arizona State on Sept. 10. In league play, the toughest matchups are Oct. 1 at No. 10 Baylor and Nov. 19 at No. 9 Oklahoma.
* tba
S3 UTEP, 3:30 p.m.
S10 Kent St., 7 p.m.
S17 at Nebraska, Noon
S24 Kansas St.*
O1 at TCU*
O8 Texas*
O15 Kansas*
O29 at Iowa St.*
N5 Baylor*
N12 at West Virginia*
N19 Oklahoma St.*
N26 at Texas Tech*
S1 C. Michigan, 7 p.m.
S10 Arizona St., 7:30 p.m.
S17 UA-Pine Bluff, 7 p.m.
O1 at Baylor*
O8 Texas Tech*
O15 at TCU*
O22 Texas*
O29 at Kansas St.*
N5 at Kansas*
N12 Iowa St.*
N19 at Oklahoma*
N26 West Virginia*
S3 at Wyoming, 3:30 p.m.
S10 N. Illinois, 7 p.m. S17 Jax St., 7 p.m.
S24 at Mississippi*
O1 Cincinnati*
O8 at Navy, 3:30 p.m.
O21 at Temple, 7:30 p.m. O29 SMU*
N5 Tulane*
N10 at Memphis, 7:30 p.m. N18 S. Florida, 9 p.m. N25 at Houston*
S1 at Emporia St., 7 p.m.
S10 Mo. Southern, 6 p.m.
S17 at Pitt St., 7 p.m.
S24 Lincoln, 2 p.m.
O1 at C. Missouri, 1 p.m.
O6 at UCO, 7 p.m.
O15 Mo. Western, 4 p.m.
O22 at NW Mo., 2 p.m. O29 Washburn, 2 p.m.
N5 at Fort Hays St., 1 p.m. N12 UN-Kearney, 2 p.m.
