Sumner Football: Spartans’ goal is returning to playoffs after absence
Published 4:17 pm Monday, August 31, 2009
After missing the playoffs for the last two season, Sumner High football coach Keith Ross and his staff are looking to guide the Spartans back to postseason play.
Ball control is a big part of Ross’ offensive scheme and he knows his team can’t afford to commit lots of turnovers. The Spartans turned the ball over 41 times while posting a 5-5 overall mark in 2008.
Key to the Spartans’ offensive success will be the returning backfield of sophomore quarterback Aaron Clark (6-3, 185), and running backs, senior Alex Griffith (6-1, 245) and junior Cody Haavik (5-10, 195).
Ross said his team will operate out of the split-back veer formation and will utilize Clark’s talents. Last season, Griffith rushed for more than 550 yards and Haavik added more than 440.
“We’re set up to be a good running team with our returning backs,” Ross said. “But we also know Aaron can throw the ball and we’re going to expand our offense.”
Ross said both backs are “physical workhorses” and Clark has the “best arm” in his 12 years coaching at Sumner.
Junior Cody Brennan could also see time at quarterback.
Clark will have senior Zach Williams (5-11, 160), sophomore Brendon Baker and senior Forrest Beattie (6-1, 180) as his prime receiving targets.
Anchoring the offensive front are center junior Sean Boer and guards junior Sean Dorfler (6-2, 230) and sophomore Derek Corn (5-10, 190). The starting tackles are brothers Edward and Andrew Berg. Sophomore Duane Tyner (6-3, 300) could see time on the line.
Ross said the line averages about 220 pounds, but is quicker than last season.
Senior Andrew Glenn and junior Nick Barton will platoon at tight end.
The kicking game is in good hands with junior Zach Bowers (5-9, 150), who will handle the place kicking and punting chores.
Defensively, Ross will use a 3-4 defensive formation.
“We going blitz and mix it up,” he said. “We’re going to be aggressive and we’re fast.”
Senior Nathan Joslin (6-2, 300) anchors the middle at nose guard.
Defensive ends are all-league pick Ben Taua, a junior, and Dorfler.
The linebacking corps consists of Griffith, Haavik, junior Austin McRae (5-11, 190) and sophomore Tyler Salisbury (5-8, 170).
Senior Alex Bickers (6-1, 180) and junior Peter Marth will be at corners, while Williams and senior Seth Rodriguez (5-8, 180) roam the secondary at free and strong safety.
According to Ross, Lakes and Peninsula are the South Puget Sound League 3A’s top two teams with everyone else fighting for the remaining playoff berths.
“We want to get back into the playoffs,” he said. “That attainable for us. We want to get better and we feel good about this team which has more spirit and unity. They’ve worked hard in the offseason and we’re in better shape than any other team I’ve coached.”
The Spartans travel to Purdy to face Peninsula Sept. 4 for their season and SPSL opener.
To comment on this story view it online at www.blscourierherald. Reach Dannie Oliveaux at doliveaux@cmg-northwest2.go-vip.net/courierherald or 360-802-8209.
