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2 FALL 2010 • UNION COUNTY WEEKLY www.unioncountyweekly.com

Football Night iN UNioN: 

LET’s dO IT AgAIN! 

by C. Jemal Horton ings, we’ve added a section we call 

jemal@carolinaweeklynewspapers.com Best of the Best, which highlights 

the people we consider to be the 

Last year, when we published tops in the county in a number of 

the inaugural edition of Football categories. 

Night in Union, the response was I’m sure there will be plenty to 

overwhelming. 

debate in this section. 

You, the readers, were 

Our staff – which 

extremely generous in 

includes assistant sports 

expressing how much 

editors Aaron Garcia 

you appreciated our 

and Chris Hunt, sports 

hard work producing 

writer Denny Seitz and 

Union County’s most 

Wingate intern Mike 

comprehensive high 

Shaw – tried to go 

school football preview. 

beyond the field of play 

That made it so much 

easier to do our best to C. Jemal Horton 

to bring you compelling 

stories about the teams 

improve on last year’s issue. and players that make Union County 

This year, we’ve found more high school football special. 

intriguing stories on Union County Just like last year, we’ve also 

football players and teams, and jammed this 20-page publication 

our enormously talented designers with previews on every football team 

Michael Kerr and Debbie Archer in the county, with the exception 

have made them look better than of Jireh Prep, which allows post- 

ever on the pages. 

graduate players to take the field. 

There even will be more controversy Nonetheless, there’s something 

surrounding this year’s issue – for everyone in Football Night in 

though I, as Union County Weekly’s Union 2010, and I sincerely hope 

sports editor, promise you it’s not you enjoy it. 

intentional. That said, in addition Now, let the games – and the 

CharWeeklyJUL10:Layout 1 7/29/10 2:08 PM Page 1 

to our Preseason Super 7 rank- debating – begin. q 

Congratulations to Charlotte Latin 

student athletes and coaches for winning 

their 6th consecutive Wachovia Cup! 

9502 Providence Road Charlotte, NC 28277 704.846.1100 www.charlottelatin.org 

Financial assistance is available. Please inquire about the Malone Scholarship for gifted students in 7th 12th grades. 

www.unioncountyweekly.com 

…where teaching is valued 

and learning is celebrated 

Go Hawks! 

Table 

Of Contents 

ON THE COVER 

Players are (from left) Piedmont’s Stewart Hinson, 

Weddington’s Brandon Little, Monroe’s Jamison Crowder, 

Parkwood’s Marcus Leak and Marvin Ridge’s K.J. Brent. 

FEATURES 

PRESEASON SUPER 7: We unveil our top seven 

teams in Union County. ....................page 4 

K.J. BRENT, BIG MAN ON CAMPUS: Marvin Ridge 

wide receiver just scratching surface. ..........page 7 

JAMISON CROWDER, BIG MAN ON CAMPUS: 

Monroe standout’s myriad skills make him county’s most 

unique player. ...........................page 9 

BEST OF THE BEST: We tip our caps to the county’s 

best in various categories. ..............pages 10-11 

MARCUS LEAK, BIG MAN ON CAMPUS: 

Parkwood star strives to be complete. .........page 12 

PIEDMONT LINEMEN, BIG MEN ON CAMPUS: 

Panthers’ big offensive linemen are like brothers. .page 13 

JADARRIUS WILLIAMS, BIG MAN ON 

CAMPUS: Spartan has bright future. . .......page 15 

BRANDON LITTLE, BIG MAN ON CAMPUS: 

Warriors’ running back has mind control. .......Page 17 

FAN’S GUIDE 

Union County Weekly’s handy week-by-week schedule gives 

you a one-stop resource, listing every game involving area 

football teams in 2010. ...................page 19 

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Football Night in Union 

TEAM PREVIEWS 

Charlotte Berry .............................18 

Central Academy .............................5 

Cuthbertson ................................5 

Forest Hills .................................6 

Marvin Ridge. ...............................6 

Monroe. ...................................8 

Parkwood .................................12 

Piedmont .................................13 

Porter Ridge ...............................14 

Sun Valley .................................14 

Union Academy .............................17 

Weddington ...............................16 

ABOUT THIS SECTION 

Football Night in Union 2010 was produced by our sports, 

design and photography staff. 

The section was planned and edited by Sports Editor 

C. Jemal Horton and Assistant Sports Editor Aaron Garcia. 

Michael Kerr and Debbie Archer designed the section. 

Horton, Garcia, Chris Hunt, Denny Seitz and Mike Shaw wrote 

and edited stories. 

Jim Dedmon, Garcia, Hunt, Seitz, Shaw and Robert Ashcraft 

provided photos. 

CEO Alain Lillie, Cindy Dorman, Cathy Kowalski, Franchesca 

Lamkin, Lynn Marshall, Phyllis Rozelle, Melissa Spinelli and 

Suzanne Walters sold advertising. Steve Pigg and Julie Austin 

built ads. 

Victoria Vizard coordinated advertising. Gary Boneno handled 

distribution. 

Cover photo 

Jim Dedmon 

Cover design 

Debbie Archer 

SPECIAL THANKS … 

To Monroe High School and coach Johnny Sowell for 

allowing us to conduct an extensive photo shoot on the 

football field. It made a great setting – and our jobs a whole 

lot easier. 

Immense gratitude also goes out to James Crowder for 

staying in the stadium much longer than expected so we 

could complete the photo shoot. 

7210 Stinson Hartis Rd. n Indian Trail 

UNION COUNTY WEEKLY • FALL 2010 3


The 2010 

UnIon County Weekly Preseason Super 7 

For the second season, Union County Weekly presents 

its preseason rankings, which were selected by Assistant 

Sports Editor Aaron Garcia. 

1 

Marvin Ridge 

How will opponents stop 

the Mavericks this season? 

They have talent to spare, headlined 

by a receiving corps featuring 

6-foot-4 K.J. Brent and speedster 

J.C. Howze, who should complement each other 

well in coach Scott Chadwick’s revised passing 

attack. The bruising ground game, paced by Kolly 

Ogar, will still be a factor, which really makes gameplanning 

against the Mavs a headache. 

2 Monroe 

Even if the Redhawks 

experience a bit of a 

drop off from last year, who could 

expect them to complete another 

undefeated regular season in the 

first place? The Redhawks still have the talent to 

make another deep run. And with do-it-all Jamison 

Crowder on the field, Monroe’s always a play away 

from six points. 

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Sun Valley 

developed a tough reputation 

The Spartans seem 

young, but they 

last year and should be a difficult 

matchup as a result. They also 

return quarterback Ryan Smith (2,505 yards, 

30 touchdowns) and running back JaDarrius 

Williams, the reigning conference player of the 

year. 

4 

Porter Ridge 

The Pirates lost 

some key leaders 

to graduation but still have the 

pieces to take a big step this 

season. After a full year in coach 

Blair Hardin’s Option offense, quarterback Lee 

McNeil and running back DeMario Alexander 

could become household names. 

5 Piedmont 

young, but they 

developed a tough reputation 

matchup as a result. They also 

to graduation but still have the 

season. After a full year in coach 

If you want to see 

what a college-sized 

offensive line looks like, go watch 

the Panthers. They’re huge up 

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front and should give electric quarterback Ross 

Rushing room to make plays. This year could be 

a big step in upstart Piedmont’s development. 

6 

Forest Hills 

After losing a number 

of talented players to 

graduation, including versatile 

quarterback Juanne Blount, coach 

John Lowery’s team might take 

its lumps early against a tough nonconference 

schedule, but the Yellow Jackets should climb as 

the season progresses. They’re still fast, strong 

and big, even if some of the names aren’t as 

recognizable – yet. 

7 Weddington 

After losing a number 

Last year, coach Justin 

Hardin’s team made 

major improvement, winning 

five games and qualifying for 

the Class 3A state playoffs. The 

Warriors have many new starters, but this 

year should show fans what they can expect 

from Hardin’s teams: grit and determination. 

And wins. 

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Mike Shaw/CWNG photo 

Coach Tony Pyland believes his team has 

something this season that it’s been lacking over 

the past two years: experience. 

“Last season, we weren’t sure how good we 

could be,” said Pyland. “This season, we are more 

experienced and are focusing on consistency.” 

Over the past three seasons, the Cougars 

only won one game. The lone win came last 

year against Gastonia Highland Tech, 35-6. 


Although last season didn’t go according to 

plan, Pyland looks at it in a positive light. 

“As a program, we grew and matured,” said 

Pyland. 

OFFENSE 

The Cougars are known as a running team, 

and this year won’t be any different. Pyland 

was outscored 583-45, but Roark’s confident the 

team is headed in the right direction. 

OFFENSE 

Senior Austin Hill returns as the starting 

quarterback and will be joined in the backfield 

by tailback Josh Lee. Receivers Brian Lattimore 

and Emmitt Afam will also have their numbers 

called frequently. 

Cody Clark will anchor the offensive line. 

“Last year, we were a one-back offense,” Roark 

said. “We’ll keep a lot of those components, but 

because we’ve got some good receivers, we’re 

going to spread it out a little more and try to get 

the ball to the athletes.” 

DEFENSE 

The team’s multiple-look defensive front 


Central aCademy cougars 

Central Academy’s team leaders include (front, from left) Billy Wilson, Jeremy Ferguson, Chris Hailey; 

and (back row) Trae Funderburk, Will Robinson and Allen Carpenter. 

There’s nowhere to go but up for the Cavaliers, 

who entered the conference last season as a 

first-year school and were dominated by many 

of their opponents. This year’s team will benefit 

from the experiences of last year, head coach 

Mike Roark said. 

The Cavs expect to make great strides with 

hard work and an offseason in which they 

became bigger, faster and stronger. It might take 

baby steps to erase last season, when the team 

FAST FACTS 

head coach: Mike Roark, second 

season (1-10) 

Returning starters: Offense, 10; 

defense, 10 

conference: 2A/1A Rocky River 

Conference 

2009 record: 1-10, 1-7 

2010 schedule 

Aug. 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Weddington 

Aug. 27 . . . . . . . . .at Concord Robinson 

Sept. 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .at Marvin Ridge 

Sept. 10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .at North Stanly 

Sept. 17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .at West Stanly 

Sept. 24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Monroe 

Oct. 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .at Piedmont 

Oct. 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Charlotte Berry 

Oct. 15 . . . . . . . . . . . .at Central Academy 

Oct. 22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Union Academy 

Oct. 29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Forest Hills 

said his offense will run the football at least 

75 percent of the time. 

Even though Central Academy focuses on 

the run, Pyland said his two biggest threats on 

offense are quarterback Jeremy Ferguson and 

wide receiver John Quintero, who are both 

seniors. Pyland believes the tandem’s play will 

determine the potency of his offense. In addition 

to Ferguson and Quintero, Pyland called the play 

of senior halfback Billy Wilson exceptional. 

DEFENSE 

The Cougars run a 4-4 defensive scheme 

that emphasizes playing hard through the 

gaps. Junior Mitchell Blackburn returns after 

finishing first on the team in tackles the past 

two seasons. With Blackburn moving from 

linebacker to the defensive line, the Cougars 

will have a huge presence up front. 

Junior outside linebackers Josh Sawyer and 

Chris Hailey offer the defensive unit something 

more than tackles. 

“Their aggressiveness and athleticism give us 

some freedom defensively,” Pyland said. 

Inside linebackers Chris Frazier, a junior, and 

Robert Wimbish, a senior, are new to the team, 

and Pyland believes their play will keep the 

defense solid up the middle. 

SPECIAL TEAMS 

Junior Kyle Kling will handle both field goal 

and kickoff duties throughout the season. 

Senior Chase Bernard will be the team’s long 

snapper. All return duties will go to Hailey and 

junior Calvin Livingston. 

– Mike Shaw 

FAST FACTS 

head coach: Tony Pyland, fourth 

season (1-32) 

Returning starters: 17 

conference: Rocky River 1A/2A 

2009 Record: 1-10, 0-8 

2010 schedule 

Aug. 20 . . . . . . . . . .at East Montgomery 

Aug. 27 . . . . . . .Gastonia Highland Tech 

Sept. 10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .at Monroe 

Sept. 17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Charlotte Berry 

Sept. 24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .at Parkwood 

Oct. 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .at North Stanly 

Oct. 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .at Piedmont 

Oct. 15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Cuthbertson 

Oct. 22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .at Forest Hills 

Oct. 29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .West Stanly 

Nov. 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Union Academy 

CUtHBertSOn 

caVaLIErs 

Cuthbertson quarterback Austin Hill and lineman Cody Clark 

Denny Seitz/CWNG photo 

should be much improved from last season, 

even though the team is still dominated by 

sophomores. Three 10th-graders – Alex 

Norton, Carson Elmore and Connor 

Sorensen – will anchor the defense. Another 

sophomore, Jeff Swan, will be the top defensive 

lineman. 

In the secondary, safety Afam and senior 

cornerback Jalen Still are expected to be 

cornerstones. 

“We have some guys who are a year away 

from being really good varsity players,” Roark 

said. “We don’t have any option but to play 

them this year, so they’ll work hard, learn and 

improve.” 


Roark said senior Adam Lutz is the best 

kicker/punter in the conference. It was Lutz’s 

punt – downed at the 1-yard line midway 

through the fourth quarter of last year’s 17-16 

win over Central Academy – that was the 

game’s pivotal play, Roark said. 

“He’s going to hit some field goals for us 

this year,” Roark said. “He’s got the range. If we 

block for him, he’ll be a weapon for us.” 

– Denny Seitz 


Aaron Garcia/CWNG photo 


Forest Hills 

Yellow Jackets 

Forest Hills will be bolstered by (from left) Andrew Whitley and Jaquelle Parker in 2010. 

The big names may have disappeared, but 

Yellow Jackets head coach John Lowery says 

there’s plenty of talent returning. 

Gone are the school-record 5,392 yards and 

84 rushing touchdowns posted by quarterback 

Juanne Blount over the past four years. Replacing 

those numbers will be the biggest question mark 

for a team that has perennially been among the 

best in the Rocky River 1A/2A conference. 

Hopes are high out on Crane Road as the 

2010 season opens, and with 18 starters back, 

it’s easy to see why. But for 2010 to be the year 

the Mavericks become a state title contender, 

they’ll have to rely on some new starters to step 

into major roles. 

Either way, they’ll be dangerous. 

OFFENSE 

The offense will open up a bit, said coach Scott 

FAST FACTS 

head coach: Scott Chadwick, third 

season (16-9); 13th overall (87-51) 


defense, 8 

conference: Southern Carolina 3A/4A 

2009 record: 9-3, 3-2 

2010 schedule 

Aug. 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Concord 

Aug. 27 . . .at Harrisburg Hickory Ridge 

Sept. 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Cuthbertson 

Sept. 10 . . . . . . . . . . . . Central Cabarrus 

Sept. 17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ardrey Kell 

Sept. 24 . . . . . . . . . . . . .at North Lincoln 

Oct. 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Porter Ridge 

Oct. 15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .at Sun Valley 

Oct. 22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .at Anson Senior 

Oct. 29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Parkwood 

Nov. 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . at Weddington 

OFFENSE 

Four of the six returning starters on offense 

reside on the line, a unit which paved the 

way for Blount to ramble to 2,034 yards and 

35 touchdowns in 2009. Name recognition 

might be scarce, but talent is not, according to 

Lowery. 

Deonta Vinson will be the primary ball 

carrier and could post good numbers. He had 

306 yards on the ground a year ago. C.J. Kiser 

could also receive plenty of touches in the backfield, 

from either the running back or quarterback 

position. 

The Yellow Jackets might have trouble 

averaging 37 points per game, as they did last 

year, but they shouldn’t struggle to put points 

on the board. Junior Labryan Chambers, 

who missed most of last year after tearing his 

anterior cruciate ligament, appears to have won 

the starting quarterback job. 

DEFENSE 

The Yellow Jackets have returning allconference 

players Darius Ellison and Aaron Sigmon anchoring 

the front seven. Sigmon, a senior linebacker, 

had a team-high 152 tackles in 2009, which was 

a single-season school record. Ellison, a senior 

defensive tackle, was third on the team with 60 

tackles and also notched 6.5 sacks. 

Vinson will be a playmaker in an otherwise 

inexperienced secondary. But the play of Ellison 

and defensive tackles D.J. Watkins, Justin 

White and Zac Helms might make the jobs of 

the cover guys easier. 


Replacing kicker Jamie Miller, who graduated 

this past spring, will be the toughest chore for 

this unit. Miller booted 58 extra points and 

three field goals a year ago. 


FAST FACTS 

head coach: John Lowery, 

17th season (82-47) 


defense, 6 


2009 record: 9-4, 7-1 

2010 schedule 

Aug. 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Anson Senior 

Aug. 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Weddington 

Sept. 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . at Porter Ridge 

Sept. 10 . . . . . . . . . . .at Charlotte Berry 

Sept. 17 . . . . . . . . . . .at Union Academy 

Sept. 24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Piedmont 

Oct. 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .at West Stanly 

Oct. 15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .at North Stanly 

Oct. 22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Central Academy 

Oct. 29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . at Cuthbertson 

Nov. 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Monroe 

Marvin ridge 

Chadwick. The Mavericks have a strong group 

of receivers, led by South Carolina commit K.J. 

Brent and J.C. Howze, who could be one of the 

county’s breakout performers this year. Chris 

Ogbana, Aaron Peterson, Carter Hill, Carter 

Harris and tight end Tanner Hillis should all 

contribute as well. 

Quarterback Tyler Chadwick returns to 

distribute the ball among the playmakers. 

“But we’ll still run the ball,” promised 

Chadwick. 

Kolly Ogar, a 1,000-yard rusher, is joined in 

the backfield by David Bryant. Griffin Weidele 

is the fullback. 

To have a balanced offense, the Mavs will rely 

on an experienced line, led by seniors Hunter 

Hiers (right tackle), Trent Baker (right guard) 

and Garrett Blatnick (left tackle). Jonathon 

Chang and Trey Cherry will start at center and 

left guard, respectively. 

DEFENSE 

Ryan Bull (6 foot 3, 280 pounds) and Raheem 

McKinney (6-0, 295) combine to make a 

formidable front in the 4-3 defense. They’ll be 

flanked by Chris Murphy and Phil Eunice at 

the ends. Evan Short will be at tackle. 

The Mavs replace two starters at linebacker, 

and how quickly the new guys catch up could 

Mavericks 

The Mavericks expect strong leadership from (from left) Griffin Weidele, J.C. Howze, Ryan Bull and 

Tyler Chadwick. 

determine the defense’s effectiveness. Luckily, 

they have the team’s best defender in Weidele 

to help ease the transition. The likely choices 

are JV standout Matt Townsend and Dylan 

Kwaiser. 

Cornerbacks Matt Chilton and Griffin 

Campbell both return, as do safeties Steve 

Smith and Zach Lax. Junior Luke Stennitt 

should also have a prominent role. 


Howze provides a burst in the return game, 

and freshman Jacob Henderson may also 

get some opportunities. Finding a kicker has 

become a huge task. 

– Aaron Garcia 

6 FALL 2010 • UNION COUNTY WEEKLY www.unioncountyweekly.com 

Aaron Garcia/CWNG photo

Jim Dedmon/CWNG photo 

by Aaron Garcia 

aaron@carolinaweeklynewspapers.com 

K.J. Brent looks skyward and uses his fingers 

to count all the colleges that have offered him 

football scholarships. It’s as if the Marvin Ridge 

senior’s trying to remember all the guests at a 

good-sized get-together. 

North Carolina. East Carolina. Duke. 

Wisconsin. Illinois. Stanford. West Virginia. 

N.C. State. Maryland coach Ralph Friedgen 

visited, but an official offer never came. And, of 

course, his eventual choice: South Carolina. 

“I don’t think I’m forgetting one,” concluded 

Brent. 

It would be understandable if he did. After 

all, it’s not surprising that a 6-foot-4 receiver 

with 4.5-second speed in the 40-yard dash 

has gotten so many scholarship offers. Brent’s 

play during his junior year added some beef 

to his intangibles. He hauled in 47 passes for 

754 yards and seven scores while developing 

into a trustworthy red-zone target. 

But what causes a double-take is the fact 

that last season was only his third full year of 

After a slow start to his career, Marvin Ridge senior K.J. Brent has 

become one of the area’s best wide receivers. 


Big Man on campus Campus 

football. 

“I never thought I’d be going to college for 

football,” Brent said. “I thought I’d be going for 

baseball or basketball or something like that. I 

only started playing football in eighth grade.” 

Until then, football was reserved for his back 

yard – nothing structured. He saved that for the 

other two sports. But one day, while attending 

Weddington Middle School, former Maverick 

teammate Vinnie Sunseri approached the 

already-6-foot Brent with what has since 

become a brilliant idea. 

“You should come out (for the football 

team),” suggested Sunseri. “You’re tall, and if 

you can catch, you can play.” 

And that’s what he did. But it took a while 

for Sunseri to prove prophetic. 

“I wasn’t good,” Brent admitted. “I had, like, 

one catch that year.” 

That was almost the end, but after some 

thought, Brent decided to give it another go as 

a freshman. On the first day of practice, then- 

Mavericks coach Bruce Hardin snatched Brent 

from the JV field and brought him up to varsity, 

where he even started his first 

game before settling in as a 

second-stringer. 

“It was only my second 

year playing,” said Brent. 

“I was kind of freaked out, 

but once I got into the flow 

of things, it was fun. It was 

nerve-racking, but after the 

first hit, I was fine.” 

When current coach Scott 

Chadwick arrived for the 

first day of workouts before 

Brent’s sophomore season, 

“I saw it right away,” said 

Chadwick. “From the moment 

we started that first summer, it 

was obvious he was going to 

be a special player.” 

Unfortunately for Brent 

and the Mavericks, he suffered 

an ankle injury during the 

year’s first scrimmage and was 

lost for the regular season. 

But Chadwick explained that 

Brent used the offseason to 

make up for lost time and 

displayed that work ethic 

with his statistics last season. 

Chadwick said Brent uses 

his size as adeptly across 

the middle as he does when 

going over a cornerback. But 

his biggest advantage? 

“He’s got great hands,” 

said Chadwick. “He catches 

everything. He doesn’t drop 

balls, but he makes the spec- 

tacular catch, too.” 

Luckily, his hands are also 

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No Appointment Necessary 

CMC-Union Emergency Department 

600 Hospital Drive / Monroe, NC 

At CMC-Union, our goal is to keep you in the game. 

That’s why we offer a sports injury clinic on Saturday 

mornings for high school athletes. Services at the clinic 

are provided by board-certified orthopedic surgeons on 

the CMC-Union medical staff and we offer MRI scans 

and diagnostic imaging if needed for faster diagnosis 

and recovery. Walk-ins are welcome. 

For more information about the Saturday Morning 

Sports Injury Clinic, call 704-225-2884. 

Union 

600 Hospital Drive | Monroe, NC 28112 | 704-283-3100 | www.cmc-union.org 




MONROE 

Monroe’s 2010 nucleus includes (from left) Eric Horne, Chris Thomas, Qwadarius Duboise and 

Ricardo White. 

You don’t replace a running game that 

produced nearly 3,000 yards and 38 touchdowns, 

nor do you just plug in another 6-foot-5 

tight end/receiver/safety, like Issac Blakeney, 

who drew double coverage. 

“We’re not going to have that, so we’re going 

to have to do some other things as well,” said 

Monroe coach Johnny Sowell, whose team 

went 12-1 last season and averaged 49 points 

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Nevertheless, the Redhawks are using the 

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do it again in 2010.” 

OFFENSE 

Monroe may show a more diverse aerial attack 

in 2010, partly out of necessity but also due to 

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Optometrist 

REDHAWKS 

quarterback Jalen Sowell’s development as a 

passer. Sowell added velocity to his throws in the 

offseason and will have leading receiver Jamison 

Crowder to target. Quayshawn Chambers 

and Quinton Miller will both see time at tight 

end, while Chris Thomas, Rico White and 

Union Academy transfer Jerred Hill fill out the 

rotation. 

Seniors Qwadarius Duboise and Ricardo 

White step into the fullback and tailback spots, 

respectively, so the run game won’t see much of 

a drop off in athleticism. And don’t be surprised 

to see Crowder taking handoffs. 

The Redhawk transition will be helped by an 

experienced, though thin, line. Mason Sledge 

will line up at left tackle alongside senior guard 

Eric Horne, center C.J. Bolder and right tackle 

Gavin Croutch. 

DEFENSE 

The defense was hit hard by graduation, 

so there’ll be a host of new starters, many of 

whom will double on offense. Horne, Sledge 

and Croutch will anchor Monroe’s multipleformation 

defense from the tackle spots, while 

Duboise and Wesley Mongo will back the line. 

Bolder might take the third linebacker spot. 

Jalen Sowell joins Crowder this year at safety, 

and they’ll be flanked by cornerbacks LaVonté 

Baker and Caleb Walker. White will offer sup- 

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FAST FACTS 

head coach: Johnny Sowell, sixth 

season (35-25) 


defense, 4 


2009 record: 12-1, 8-0 

2010 schedule 

Aug. 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Porter Ridge 

Aug. 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Parkwood 

Sept. 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . .at Mount Pleasant 

Sept. 10 . . . . . . . . . . . .Central Academy 

Sept. 17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .at Piedmont 

Sept. 24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . at Cuthbertson 

Oct. 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .North Stanly 

Oct. 15 . . . . . . . . . . . . .at Union Academy 

Oct. 22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .West Stanly 

Oct. 29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Charlotte Berry 

Nov. 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .at Forest Hills 

port at outside linebacker/safety, while Thomas 

is a capable defender, too. 


Crowder is among the state’s elite return 

men. Sowell must find a reliable kicker but has 

many options. 

FOOTBALL NIGHT 


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OUR PRESEASON SUPER 7 

TEAM-BY-TEAM PREVIEWS 

BIG MEN ON CAMPUS 

AND MUCH MORE!

Jim Dedmon/CWNG photo 

by Aaron Garcia 

aaron@carolinaweeklynewspapers.com 

It would be excusable if Monroe’s Jamison 

Crowder walked around town with a little 

more swagger. But for all his ability, for all the 

spectacular catches and hits and jukes he puts 

on opponents whenever he gets an opportunity, 

for all the game-changing returns he takes deep 

into opponents’ territory, Crowder is as low-key 

and understated as they come. 

“He’s one of those kids, like a couple of these 

kids, that don’t do a lot of talking,” said Monroe 

coach Johnny Sowell of the Redhawks’ star 

return man/receiver/safety. 

“(Crowder) just takes it and goes. He’s a 

special player.” 

Special indeed. Last season, Crowder 

surfaced as one of the state’s top return men 

after collecting four kicks for scores and constantly 

giving his team an advantage in the 

field- position battle. 

Versatile Monroe senior Jamison Crowder has committed to Duke 

University. 



In a game against Parkwood, Crowder 

racked up 116 punt return yards and another 

125 in kickoff returns. In all, he topped 80 punt 

return yards five times last season as a junior. 

And although teams often avoided him on 

kickoffs, he still managed to average 52.5 yards 

per return on four tries. 

Oh, yeah, he also caught 10 touchdowns, 

notched two interceptions and deflected six 

passes. 

This summer, Crowder decided to accept a 

scholarship offer from Duke University. He 

turned down North Carolina, N.C. State, East 

Carolina, Wake Forest and Illinois to become 

a Blue Devil. 

Yet another reason to walk around with the 

proverbial big head. 

But according to those around him, what 

keeps Crowder grounded is the same quality 

that’s allowed him to emerge as one of 

the state’s top playmakers: He enjoys playing 

and does so with a hard-nosed approach 

to whichever position he’s 

competing, whether he’s 

playing his myriad positions 

on the gridiron or guiding 

the Redhawks to the Class 

2A state championship in 

basketball. 

“We call him ‘the Old 

Man,’” chuckled Sowell, who 

noted that Crowder is constantly 

icing down some part 

of his battle-weary body after 

games and practices. 

When asked which 

position he enjoys playing the 

most, Crowder admits that 

returning kicks and punts is 

his first love. But then, one of 

the area’s foremost offensive 

weapons throws a curve. 

“I like defensive back 

because I feel like, on the 

defensive side of the ball, I 

have a lot of fun, and I don’t 

really have to time everything,” 

said the 5-foot-10 

Crowder. “I can make plays 

for myself then. They throw a 

pass and I’m trying to go and 

get it and make a tackle. 

“I’m not that big, but I like 

being physical.” 

You see, what keeps 

Crowder grounded despite 

the gaudy numbers and 

the attention from college 

recruiters is the fact that he 

loves the game and places as 

much value in a drive-ending 

tackle as he does an 80-yard 

scamper for a score. 

And perhaps most important, 

that keeps him hungry 

for more. q 

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UNION COUNTY WEEKLY’S 

BEST PASSING OFFENSE 

Sun Valley Spartans 

Junior quarterback Ryan 

Smith (with ball) showed 

a mastery of coach Scott 

Stein’s aerial attack last season, 

throwing 30 touchdowns 

with only six interceptions. 

Receivers Jody Fuller (left) and 

Chris Duffy (right) can break 

BEST SPECIAL TEAMS 

Porter Ridge Pirates 

Usually, when a team is turning 

a corner, the first glimpse 

is given in the special teams, 

and that was certainly the case 

last year. Matt Wogan (left) 

was a revelation at kicker, while 

playmakers (from left) Jordan 

Oakley, Javante Truesdale and 

the game wide open, while 

tight end Steven Cole (second 

from left) helps assure a 

high completion percentage 

for Smith. Even running back 

JaDarrius Williams is a threat 

in this passing attack. 

– Chris Hunt Chris Hunt/CWNG photo 

BEST RUSHING OFFENSE 

Marvin Ridge Mavericks 

Last year, Kolly Ogar (second 

from right) stepped in for an 

injured David Bryant (second 

from left) and promptly broke 

out for a 1,000-yard season. 

This year, the duo should 

combine to give Marvin Ridge 

a potent one-two punch, 

especially with linemen such 

as Hunter Hiers (left) and 

Trent Baker (right) and an 

improved passing game that 

will keep defenses honest. 

Get your odometers ready. 


DeMario Alexander began to 

emerge in the return game. 

By the end of the season, 

opposing teams expected to 

photo 

drive at least 80 yards for 

a score. It should only get 

tougher this year. 

Hunt/CWNG 

– Aaron Garcia Chris 

THERE ARE A NUMBER OF OUTSTANDING INDIVIDUALS 

INVOLVED IN UNION COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL. THAT 

FACT PROMPTED THE FOOTBALL NIGHT IN UNION STAFF TO GO 

OUT ON A LIMB AND IDENTIFY THE PEOPLE AND THINGS FROM 

AREA TEAMS THAT WE CONSIDER TO BE THE BEST OF THE 

BEST. IT WAS HARD MAKING THESE DECISIONS, BUT WE FEEL 

WE’VE COMPILED A HARD-TO-BEAT LIST. 

BEST PASSING DEFENSE 

Monroe Redhawks 

Monroe’s secondary has 

developed a reputation for 

being fast and instinctive, 

and it swarms like bees. Even 

with some new starters, 

that should still be the case 

with (from left) cornerback 

LaVonté Baker, safety Jamison 

Crowder, safety Jalen Sowell 

and cornerback Caleb Walker. 

The Redhawks are even bet- 

photo 

ter with Ricardo White and 

Chris Thomas each cycling 

through as hybrid linebacker/ 

safeties. 

Garcia/CWNG 

– Aaron Garcia Aaron 

BEST RUSH DEFENSE 

Forest Hills Yellow Jackets 

Linebacker Aaron Sigmon 

(right) might be the county’s 

best defender after he 

recorded 152 tackles last 

season, 45 of which were for 

a loss. Fellow allconference 

honoree Darius Ellison (left) 

also provides punch at the 

end slot, but these two 

simply headline an extremely 

strong front seven that will 

make some teams rethink 

their game plans. 


10 FALL 2010 • UNION COUNTY WEEKLY www.unioncountyweekly.com www.unioncountyweekly.com 

UNION COUNTY WEEKLY • FALL 2010 11 


BEST STADIUM 

Monroe High School 

In many ways, the football 

stadium at Monroe High 

embodies the same characteristics 

that have made the 

team that calls it home so 

successful in recent years 

-- it’s clean, structured and, 

with that FieldTurf, it’s fast. 

The facility is an impressive 

sight even when it’s empty. 

But on Friday nights, throngs 

of red-clad Redhawk fans give 

the stands a life of their own, 

providing the team with the 

ultimate homefield edge. 

– Aaron Garcia Aaron Garcia/CWNG photo


The Rebels graduated five starters from last 

season but suffered even bigger blows this summer. 

Rising seniors Chase Plyler, Matt Sinclair 

and Tim Richardson, who each were projected 

as two-way starters, will be unable to play this 

year because of injuries. Plyler suffered a serious 

neck injury in a car accident this summer 

and, although he is expected to have a full 

recovery, will not be able to play football again. 

FAST FACTS 

head coach: Nelson Rowell, fourth 



defense, 2 


2009 record: 4-7, 1-4 

2010 schedule 

Aug. 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Piedmont 

Aug. 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .at Monroe 

Sept. 3 . . . . . . . . . . . .at Concord Cox Mill 

Sept. 10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .at Mount Airy 

Sept. 17 . . . . . .at Northwest Cabarrus 

Sept. 24 . . . . . . . . . . . .Central Academy 

Oct. 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Weddington 

Oct. 15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . at Porter Ridge 

Oct. 22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Sun Valley 

Oct. 29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .at Marvin Ridge 

Nov. 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Anson Senior 

by Denny Seitz 

denny@carolinaweeklynewspapers.com 

Marcus Leak wants people to think of him 

as a do-it-all receiver, one who can use his 

blazing speed to run past a defensive back but 

also outmuscle an opponent for a ball that’s up 

for grabs. 

There’s only one problem: He’s so good at 

blazing past people that he rarely has to do any 

of the muscle work. 

“I think I’m just as good at the physical part 

as I am the speed part,” said Leak, “but I just 

don’t get to show it very often.” 

With sub-4.4-second speed in the 40-yard 

dash, soft hands, and a reputation as a solid 

route-runner, Leak has proven adept at getting 

open and then leaving foes in the dust 

after he catches a pass. This season, he’s trying 

to become the first player in Union County 

history to surpass 600 receiving yards in a 

season three times. He’s broken the 600-yard 

barrier the past two years despite missing four 

games a year ago – and two games during his 

sophomore season – because of injuries. 

His yards per catch and consistency in turning 

in home-run plays triggered a late recruiting 

frenzy for his services, but the 6-foot-1, 205pound, 

three-sport athlete has already committed 

to the University of Maryland. 

ParkwooD 

Parkwood looks to improve on last year’s 4-7record this season. Denny Seitz/CWNG photo 

Richardson tore his anterior cruciate ligament 

in summer 7-on-7 drills, while Sinclair tore his 

ACL last week in practice. 

The result? Seven of the team’s 24 players 

are projected to be starters on both offense and 

defense. 

“Our starting 11 are pretty good,” Rebels 

coach Nelson Rowell said. “But we need other 

“When I visited, I loved everything about the 

place,” said Leak, who caught 27 passes for 612 

yards and nine touchdowns as a sophomore. 

He followed that campaign with a 

25- reception season last year that produced 

621 yards and eight scores. That equates to 23.7 

yards per catch over two seasons, with one out 

of every three grabs going for a touchdown. 

Add to that his game-changing abilities as a 

kick and punt returner, and it’s easy to see why 

Leak is considered an A-list player, even in a 

county that boasts fellow star receivers Jamison 

Crowder of Monroe and K.J. Brent from 

Marvin Ridge. 

“I’ve got a good relationship with those guys,” 

said Leak, who was a classmate and teammate 

of Crowder’s during elementary school. “Really, 

none of us talks trash to the other.” 

Parkwood coach Nelson Rowell said his star 

athlete might be underrated because he’s so good 

at turning short gains into long touchdowns 

that he rarely gets a chance to showcase abilities 

that will surely be needed when he heads 

to college. 

“When there’s a jump ball, he’s going to 

come down with it,” Rowell said of Leak, who 

cleared 6 feet, 4 inches in the high jump and 

finished fourth among 3A competitors as a 

sophomore. 

players to step up.” 

OFFENSE 

Wide receiver Marcus Leak, who’s already 

committed to Maryland, is one of the top 

offensive threats in the county. He’ll have a new 

quarterback this season: junior Tyrone Black. 

“His speed forces 

people to lay off him, 

but then he still has 

the ability to make 

people miss after he 

catches the ball.” 

Rowell said Leak 

has strong hands 

capable of snatching 

“50-50” balls from 

defenders but also can 

run over people. 

“He’s the type of 

athlete that doesn’t 

come around very 

often,” Rowell said. 

“He’s the real deal.” 

According to 

Rowell, Maryland 

coaches think Leak 

could start as a freshman 

and has the ability 

to play in the NFL. 

At a Shrine Bowl 

combine last spring, 

Leak stunned onlookers 

with a 4.38 40-yard 

dash. They asked him 

to run again. The second 

time, he clocked 

in at 4.35. 

“He’s not just NFL 

good,” Rowell said. 

“He’s first-round draft 

pick good. It’s hard 

to comprehend how 

good he is.” q 

Rebels 

Deonta Hyatt will line up opposite Leak and is 

getting looks from Division I college programs 

himself. 

Protecting Black and opening holes for the 

running backs will be a young offensive line, 

anchored by 6-foot-1, 315-pound tackle Matt 

Brantley. 

DEFENSE 

The loss of Plyler, Sinclair and Richardson will 

hurt, especially since the unit struggled some last 

year, giving up 27 points per game. Rowell looks 

for running backs Keith Harbison and M.J. 

Washington to double as cornerbacks. 


Leak is one of the most dangerous return men 

in the state. Harbison and Washington might 

take the brunt of those duties away from Leak, 

however. 

The kicking duties will fall to Anna Villanella, 

a two-time all-conference player for the Rebels’ 

girls soccer team. Rowell said he extended the 

invitation for Villanella to try out after watching 

her boom soccer balls the past two seasons. 

Villanella has shown consistency from 

30 yards, and Rowell said she has the leg strength 

to kick from deeper than that. 



Parkwood senior wide receiver Marcus Leak is hard to ignore because of 

his impressive play on Friday nights. 


Jim Dedmon/CWNG photo

PiedMonT 

Panthers coach Frank Ambrose is highly 

optimistic heading into the 2010 season. 

“Last year was only the fifth winning season 

in the school’s 50-year history,” he said. “We 

made it to the first round of the playoffs. I was 

pleased with our success after coming off a 1-10 

record my first year at the school.” 

Ambrose has a simple philosophy: If the game 

is taught properly, wins will follow. 

“Prepare your team to the best of their ability. 

Trust your coaches to put your kids in the 

right spots and to coach their position,” said 

Ambrose. 

The second part of the philosophy is 

conditioning. 

“(We want) to be the best-conditioned 

team and control the line of scrimmage,” said 

Ambrose. “We will be bigger and stronger and 

in better shape than any team we play.” 

OFFENSE 

The Piedmont offense is built around “run 

and gun” – but a little more run than gun. 

Ambrose said his offense only passes when 

there’s a potential for a big gain. Last season, 

Piedmont averaged 18 yards per pass play, completing 

69 percent. 

The Panthers are led by junior quarterback 

Ross Rushing, senior offensive tackle Stewart 

Hinson and senior wide receiver Cameron 

Leviner. Ambrose said that experience will 

translate into great leadership. 

by Mike Shaw 

sports@carolinaweeklynewspapers.com 

Football and life are the same to Piedmont 

offensive linemen Jacob Brewer, Lucas Fisher 

and Stewart Hinson – it’s a journey to prepare 

them for the future. 

“You get knocked down sometimes, but 

you have to get back up and learn from it,” 

Brewer said. “If you work hard, good things 

will happen.” 

And Brewer, Fisher and Hinson definitely 

work hard. 

What’s Brewing 

Brewer spent last season on the sidelines 

after suffering a season-ending knee injury. 

“Instead of giving up, (Brewer) worked 

extremely hard in the weight room in 

preparation for this year,” said Fisher. 

Brewer also attended camps this summer at 

colleges such as Duke, Wake Forest, N.C. State, 

East Carolina, Western Carolina, Wofford, 

Elon and Appalachian State. He hopes that 

helps his recruiting stock rise since he doesn’t 

have game footage from last season. 

“(Many) colleges have said that I’m very talented, 

but (they’d) like to see some of my senior 


game film before making any offers,” said 

Brewer. “I expect to be getting offers toward 

the middle of the season.” 

Brewer said his injury was a positive because he 

spent more time in the weight room. He gained 

35 pounds and moved from guard to center. 

“It’s definitely made me a more dominant 

player,” said Brewer. 

Fisher’s example 

Fisher, who’s committed to Duke, worked 

equally hard in the offseason. 

“I play hard every play and will work harder 

than anyone that I go up against,” said Fisher. 

His teammates have noticed. 

“(Fisher) flies around the field, and I love 

that about him,” said Brewer. “Lucas is a great 

athlete and a great guy.” 

A guy who clearly cares about the team. 

“We have a good bit of underclassmen on 

this football team,” Fisher said. “If I set the 

example for them, they’ll be successful when 

they’re juniors and seniors.” 

The Big Stew 

At 6 foot 7, 268 pounds, Hinson’s a wall for 

the Panthers. He played tight end until the first 

game of his junior season. 

Panthers 

Piedmont has several talented players, including (front row, from left) Wesley Marsh, Ross Rushing; 

and (back row) Stewart Hinson, Cameron Leviner and Lucas Fisher. Mike Shaw/CWNG photo 

The Panthers also have junior Baron Morris, 

who Ambrose described as a quick receiver with 

great hands. 

DEFENSE 

Ambrose describes the defense as relentless. 

“You won’t see one of our defenders walking 

to the ball,” said Ambrose. “We’ll control the 

line of scrimmage and be fundamentally sound 

and sure tacklers.” 

The defensive line is paced by junior Kyle Eiss 

and seniors Justin Crump and Lucas Fisher. 

“These three have started every game the past 

three years, and they know what type of mentality 

we expect on defense,” said Ambrose. 

Piedmont senior linemen Lucas Fisher, Jacob Brewer and Stewart Hinson 

“The coaches thought it would be best to 

switch me to tackle, and that’s definitely where 

I (needed) to be,” said Hinson. 

A while later, colleges became interested in 

Hinson. This summer, on the same day they saw 

him compete at a one-day camp, East Carolina 

coaches offered him a scholarship. He accepted, 

and he plans to use hard work to excel even more. 

“I have improved every aspect of my game,” 

he said. “I have become quicker, stronger and 

overall just a better player. I have learned to be a 

better football player and person through all the 

good times and bad times in my career. I have 

learned that no matter what may happen in life 

you have to pick the ball up and keep going.” 



Last season, the Panthers were perfect on 

extra-point attempts. But Ambrose hasn’t 

decided who’ll kick this year. 

The only special teams role that Ambrose has 

decided on are the long snappers: Hinson for 

field goals and Leviner for punts. 

– Mike Shaw 

FAST FACTS 

head coach: Frank Ambrose, third 

season (8-15) 


defense, 9 


2009 Record: 7-5, 6-2 

2010 schedule 

Aug. 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .at Parkwood 

Aug. 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . at Porter Ridge 

Sept. 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Concord Robinson 

Sept. 10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Union Academy 

Sept. 17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Monroe 

Sept. 24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .at Forest Hills 

October 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Cuthbertson 

Oct. 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Central Academy 

Oct. 15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .at West Stanly 

Oct. 29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .at North Stanly 

Nov. 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .at Charlotte Berry 


Closer than a brother 

Brewer, Fisher, and Hinson work together 

to ensure that the offense is successful each 

snap. And they accomplish their mission by 

trusting that each one of them is doing his 

best every play. 

The three have a deep respect for each other. 

It’s evident in the way they talk about their 

bond. They inspire each other to work hard. 

“I love playing with Lucas and Jacob 

because they’re my best friends,” Hinson said. 

“They keep me motivated. We’ve been friends 

for a long time, and we love playing football 

together.” q 



Chris Hunt/CWNG photo 


Porter ridge 

Pirates 

Porter Ridge junior quarterback Lee McNeil is expected to be one of the top players in the conference 

this season. 

In his second season, coach Blair Hardin 

turned the once-hapless Pirates into a winning 

team. Porter Ridge finished with a 7-5 

mark and won a share of the Southern Carolina 

3A/4A conference championship with three 

victories in five league games. Their two league 

losses – to Weddington and Sun Valley – were 

by only seven points. 

This season, however, the Pirates aren’t looking 

to share. 

After losing its first two Southern Carolina 

3A/4A conference games last season, the young 

Spartans rallied down the stretch to force a 

four-way tie for the league championship. That 

team returns 15 starters this season. 

The Spartans hope experience at important 

positions will be the key to a stronger start in 

conference play and a league title they won’t 

have to share with any of their rivals. 

FAST FACTS 

head coach: Scott Stein, eighth 



defense, 8 


2009 record: 9-4, 3-2 

2010 schedule 

Aug. 20 . . . . . . . . . . . Gastonia Ashbrook 

Sept. 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Charlotte Olympic 

Sept.10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Charlotte Vance 

Sept.17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .at Asheville 

Sept. 24 . . . . . . at Wilmington Hoggard 

Oct. 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .at Bessemer City 

Oct. 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Anson Senior 

Oct. 15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Marvin Ridge 

Oct. 22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .at Parkwood 

Oct. 29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Weddington 

Nov. 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . at Porter Ridge 

In 2009, the Pirates tinkered with young 

players at several key positions. But Porter 

Ridge solidified those spots during the season 

and returns 13 starters with an eye on winning 

the league title outright. 

OFFENSE 

As a sophomore last fall, quarterback Lee 

McNeil beat out two teammates to become 

the starter and threw for 1,089 yards. Running 

back DeMario Alexander took off after the fifth 

game of the season. Both are now conference 

player of the year candidates. 

“Lee’s our guy,” said Hardin. “We threw him in 

the fire last year and won seven games. Our running 

backs can run a little bit, and a smart coach would 

give fast kids the football, so that’s what I’ll do.” 

Javonte Truesdale will share the backfield 

with Alexander. 

Four starting offensive linemen are back. 

DEFENSE 

The Pirates lost six starters, including Korey 

Smith, P.J. Freeman and Tyler Kirk, on a defense 

that held opponents below 20 points per game. 

But Porter Ridge is still strong at linebacker, 

where seasoned captains John Bryant and Zach 

Bevington pack some pop. 

Relentless defensive ends Aaron Johnson, 

Justin Oldja and Avery Worsham bring speed 

on the edge of the 4-3 format. Johnson, a 

senior, was one of the area’s top players last season. 

Alexander will also play cornerback. 


Collectively, Porter Ridge could have the best 

Sun Valley linebackers (from left) Devin Gillette, Austin Smith and Bobby Viehmeyer 


FAST FACTS 

head coach: Blair Hardin, third 



defense, 5 


2009 record: 7-5, 3-2 

2010 schedule 

Aug. 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .at Monroe 

Aug. 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Piedmont 

Sept. 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Forest Hills 

Sept. 10 . . . . . . . . . . .Charlotte Waddell 

Sept. 17 . . . . . . . . . . . . .at Hickory Ridge 

Sept. 24 . . . . . . . . . at Central Cabarrus 

Oct. 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .at Marvin Ridge 

Oct. 15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Parkwood 

Oct. 22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . at Weddington 

Oct. 29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .at Anson Senior 

Nov. 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Sun Valley 

special teams unit in the county. As a freshman 

last year, Matt Wogan kept the opposition 

pinned near the goal line in the punting and 

kicking games. Hardin said he’s already a 

Division I college prospect. 

Return specialists Truesdale, Alexander and 

Jordan Oakley can score on any given play. 

– Chris Hunt 

Sun Valley 

sPartans 

OFFENSE 

Running back JaDarrius Williams may be 

small, but he’s lightning in a bottle. After missing 

the 2009 season opener, he rushed for 1,533 

yards and 13 touchdowns in his sophomore 

campaign. To improve on last season’s effort, he’ll 

rely on an offensive line with four new starters. 

Junior quarterback Ryan Smith is the key 

to the Spartans’ explosive aerial attack, which 

averaged 27.5 points per game. In 2009, Smith 

led Union County with 2,505 yards and threw 

30 touchdown passes. 

Smith has plenty of targets, including Jody 

Fuller, who finished last season with 35 catches 

for 428 yards and six touchdowns. Converted 

receiver Chris Duffy and tight end Steven 

Cole will also see plenty of opportunities after 

the graduation of Dustin Cook and Andre 

McManus, a tandem that combined for more 

than 1,400 yards and 17 touchdowns. 

As a freshman in 2009, Duffy ran for more 

than 100 yards in the season opener against 

Gastonia Ashbrook. Smith will also throw 

plenty of swing passes to his elusive tailbacks in 

the flat. 

“(Smith) understands our offense,” said Sun 

Valley coach Scott Stein. “He is a distributor. He 

reads the defense and gets the ball to our athletes 

in open space.” 

DEFENSE 

The defense lost leading tackler Jeremy Busby, 

but the speedy, undersized unit returns eight 

starters, including linebackers David Gillette 

and Austin Smith. Former fullback Bobby 

Viehmeyer will bring a sense of aggression to 

the linebacker spot left behind by Busby. 


Williams and Fuller make up an explosive 

tandem in the kick return game. Williams is 

also a highlight reel waiting to happen as a punt 

returner. 




by Chris Hunt 

chris@carolinaweeklynewspapers.com 

If you ask Sun Valley junior running back 

JaDarrius Williams, football is all about the 

eyes. 

If his opponents’ eyes are as wide as an 

offensive lineman’s waistline, then Williams 

lowers his shoulder and runs them over because 

he senses their fear. If his would-be-tacklers’ 

eyes are full of courage, then Williams knows 

to kick in his top-end speed and quickness to 

get around the overzealous defenders. 

But football isn’t just about opponents’ eyes; 

it’s also about his eyes. 

Williams’ vision has a knack for slowing the 

game down when most players have trouble 

keeping up. As he breaks the line of scrimmage 

and dances into the secondary, his eyes quickly 

read his opponents’ intentions and process the 

information faster than a high-end computer. 

Without missing a beat, Williams then decides 

whether to take on his opponent or opt for 

evasive maneuvers. 

Williams accomplishes all this in the blink 

of an (ahem) eye. 

“I watch their eyes as they’re running toward 

me,” said Williams. “I can determine from their 

eyes if they want to hit me. It’s hard to explain, 

but I see stuff happen before it happens. I don’t 

watch the guy in front of me because, to me, 

he’s already beat. It’s the guy behind him I’m 

focused on.” 

Williams is just 5 foot 8, 165 pounds, but 

that hasn’t kept him from putting up monstrous 

statistics. In 2009, he gobbled up 1,533 yards 

and 13 touchdowns, earning conference player 

of the year honors. Williams’ potential shined 

brightest in a victory over rival Weddington, 

when he had 294 yards and four touchdowns. 

The performance was proof that, despite his 



small stature, no one plays with more heart. 

“He’s just a great kid,” said Spartans coach 

Scott Stein. “He’s undersized, but he’s a gutsy 

kid. He fits our offense like a glove, and he runs 

through tackles like a man.” 

While most running backs would eagerly 

take a 1,500-yard season, Williams said it didn’t 

meet his expectations. Before the 2009 season, 

his goal was to gain 1,600 yards because that’s 

how many the previous starter, Darius Kirtz, 

collected in 2008. 

When Kirtz graduated, few thought 

Williams was big enough to fill his shoes. The 

determined Williams took the cynicism as a 

challenge. Much to Williams’ dismay, he came 

up just 67 yards short. 

“Darius was a good friend of mine who 

helped when I was a freshman,” said Williams. 

“People didn’t think I could carry the load (like 

Kirtz). I look back on the first game, when I 

missed it because of (a) knee (injury) and think 

I could have broken (1,600 yards).” 

Coming up a bit short only raised Williams’ 

expectations for the 2010 season; he’s set the goal of 

gaining 2,000 yards, getting past the second round 

of the state playoffs and scoring 20 touchdowns. To 

accomplish that, he’ll need the help of his offensive 

linemen, who, like Williams last year, also hear 

whispers questioning their abilities. 

This season, the Sun Valley offense breaks 

in four new starting linemen living in the 

shadows of last season’s veteran unit that helped 

Williams collect the third-highest rushing total 

in Union County. Williams, however, won’t let 

his lineman face the challenge alone. 

“I’ve heard people say they can’t carry the 

load, but that’s not true,” said Williams. “We 

are in this together. I got their backs like they 

have mine.” 

They also have his eyes. q 

Sun Valley running back JaDarrius Williams is eyeing a lofty goal this season: 2,000 yards rushing. 

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Weddington Warriors 

It had been a long time since Weddington’s 

football program finished a season with a sense of 

hope. But last year, the Warriors dropped down to 

FAST FACTS 

head coach: Justin Hardin, second 

season (5-7) 


defense 6 


2009 record: 5-7, 2-3 

2010 schedule 

Aug. 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .at Cuthbertson 

Aug. 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .at Forest Hills 

Sept. 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .North Gaston 

Sept. 10 . . . . . . at Charlotte Ardrey Kell 

Sept. 17 . . . . . . . . . . . .at Gastonia Huss 

Oct. 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Charlotte Olympic 

Oct. 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .at Parkwood 

Oct. 15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Anson Senior 

Oct. 22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Porter Ridge 

Oct. 29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .at Sun Valley 

Nov. 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Marvin Ridge 

the Class 3A level and hired the energetic Justin 

Hardin, who changed the culture of a program 

that didn’t win a game the previous season. 

Once a pushover in the powerful Southwestern 

4A conference, the Warriors were the surprise 

squad of the Southern Carolina 3A/4A, qualifying 

for the state playoffs. 

Still, Hardin says there’s more work to be done. 

Hardin would like to improve on his team’s 5-7 

record and fifth-place league finish. The Warriors’ 

conference title hopes were dashed after they lost 

three of their five conference contests, all of which 

they led at the half. In 2010, Weddington returns 

13 starters and is adopting the credo “ finish,” hoping 

to capture that ever-elusive winning season. 

OFFENSE 

Junior quarterback Drew Podbrebanac has 

some big shoes to fill after the graduation of 

Duke recruit Anthony Boone, who contributed 

2,239 total yards and 23 touchdowns. Hardin likes 

Podbrebanac’s football IQ and competitive fire, 

which the coach said should thrive in the team’s 

ball-control, smash-mouth offense. 

But don’t expect the Warriors to rely too much 

on the run. Hardin said the Warriors will surprise 

opponents with a balanced attack. 

Podbrebanac won’t carry the load alone. The 

Warriors return four starters on the offensive line 

and speedy running back Brandon Little, who 

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broke his arm in the fifth game 

last season. Little finished 

fourth in the 100-yard dash at 

the Class 3A state meet. 

DEFENSE 

Hardin preaches a hardhitting, 

nasty defense, and allconference 

linebackers Zack 

Davis and Hunter Moore fit the 

bill. Defensive back Cole Finch 

played well last fall, and senior 

lineman Brandon Kersnowski, 

who’s committed to Wofford, 

has enough size and strength to 

make up for the graduation of 

300-pound Darius Kilgo. 

SPECIAL 

TEAMS 

Hardin hopes soccer player 

Zak Smith can fill in after the 

graduation of allconference 

kicker Casey Lange. 

Domnique Ardrey and Little 

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by C. Jemal Horton 

jemal@carolinaweeklynewspapers.com 

Brandon Little refuses to consider himself a 

perfectionist. 

Determined to avoid making a single 

mistake during a game or practice? OK, yes, the 

Weddington running back will admit to that. 

Unsatisfied, even after a 50-yard touchdown 

run? Yeah, sure. 

But a perfectionist? 

“No, sir,” he says defiantly but politely. “That’s 

not me. 

“I just look at everything as if I’ve got to do 

things better than I did the last time. On every 

play, I have the mind-set that I made a mistake. 

So on the next play, I have to be better. 

“I do things right, but there’s always a better 

way I can do them.” 

It wasn’t always that way for Little, who’s 

expected to be one of the Warriors’ main 

weapons this fall. 

Little has been a good player since taking up 

football in fourth grade; at the time, raw talent 

allowed him to excel. He usually was quicker, 

faster and flat out better than the competition, 

so attention to detail wasn’t always required. 

But that changed in high school, especially 


when Justin Hardin became the Warriors’ coach 

before the 2009 season. Hardin – a former 

military-college quarterback (The Citadel) and 

a follower of coaching great Bill Belichick – 

required his players to be more than physical 

specimens. And Little was eagerly buying into 

the philosophy. 

Unfortunately, he wasn’t on the field much 

last season; he broke his arm in the fifth game 

and was unable to return. Psychologically, it 

was a step back for Little. 

“I was sad I couldn’t play,” he said. “When I 

was around the team, I was happy. But when 

I got home, I was (thinking), ‘You didn’t play 

tonight You could have helped your team, even 

if it was blocking.’ 

“I felt like I let my team down by breaking 

my arm. Emotionally, I was a mess.” 

But Little never forgot the lessons about 

mental toughness he learned from his family 

and new coach. Eventually, he found the resolve 

to get better – in all facets. 

At one point last season, he weighed a mere 

135 pounds; now he’s up to 165, thanks to 

hard work in the weight room and, as he says, 

“protein and deer meat.” He also plays football 

with a thinking man’s approach. That, coupled 

with his ability to run the 100-meter dash in 

10.64 seconds, makes him one of 

the county’s most dangerous ball 

carriers. 

“I’m better at reading my holes 

and going through them,” Little 

said. “Last year, I was fast to the 

hole and fast through it. Now, I’m 

looking at the holes and deciding 

which one I’ve got to take to get 

more yards and help my team. I’m 

more patient. 

“The more coaching I’ve gotten, 

the more I’ve grown as a player,” 

he added. “During film sessions, 

Coach Hardin always says, ‘You 

did well, but there’s this one thing 

you can correct to do it even better.’ 

So this year, I’m thinking that way. 

I think I have more attention to 

detail.” 

Hardin’s noticed, especially 

during a recent scrimmage at Mint 

Hill’s Rocky River High. 

“On the first play from scrimmage, 

he hit the hole and ran over 

a guy,” Hardin said. “That was a big 

confidence boost for him, so he 

could put that injury behind him. 

That was as hard as I’ve seen him 

run. You can tell he had a great offseason. 

I definitely think he’s more 

determined. 

“I never want my football players 

to be content. As a young athlete, if 

you stay hungry, you’ll get better. I 

think Brandon has that in him.” 

But a perfectionist? 

No way, no how. q 

Union ACAdemy 

Union Academy looks to improve on last year’s 2-8-1 record with help from (front row, from left) 

Rasheed Rushing, Marlon Young, Tyree Drakeford; and (back row) Jalan Lockhart, Hunter Finney, 

Devin Chambers and Darrin Clark. 

Coach Lynn Keziah said the Cardinals have 

a thin roster but a lot of heart. 

“I want them to play hard,” said Keziah. 

“They’ve got to leave it all out there. If you give me 

everything you’ve got, I won’t be disappointed.” 

The program’s made strides entering its second 

season. Keziah doesn’t shy away from saying his 

team is bigger and better than last year, and a 

new weight room has made that possible. 

But the new facility’s had more than a physical 

impact. 

“Our kids worked out all winter and are 

closer together as a group because of it,” said 

Keziah. 

OFFENSE 

Keziah believes fans will see a completely 

different offensive unit on the field this season 

– a unit that has worked hard since last fall to 

improve its record. 

“We’ll be more consistent and physical on the 

offensive side of the ball this season,” said the 

coach. 

Keziah said the Cardinals’ offense will run 

mostly out of the I formation but will feature 

a multitude of looks. Several offensive players 

return from last year, including junior wide 

receivers Jalan Lockhart and Marlon Young, 

and senior quarterback Jackson Hargett. 

Keziah has been pleased with the production 

of junior tailback Tyree Drakeford, as well 

as tight end Hunter Finney and lineman Devin 

Chambers. Keziah also noted that sophomore 

receivers Phillip Parker and Zach Crump should 

each have sizable impacts on the passing game. 

DEFENSE 

The Cardinals’ defense should benefit from 

the experience and strength they’ve gained since 

last season, said Keziah. 

“You’ll see a more mature team who understands 

their role, knows what they’ve got to do 

to be successful and is going to work hard to 

accomplish that,” he noted. 

Once again, much of the Cardinals’ roster will 

have roles on both offense and defense but will 

be helped by senior safety Jeff Stefano, who is 

returning from an injury last season. 


Weddington running back Brandon Little has explosive speed 

and a strong mental approach to match. 

Cardinals 

SpEcial tEamS 

The Cardinals’ special teams will be led by 

senior Derrick Hamm, who will handle kicks, 

while Drakeford will be the team’s punter. 

Drakeford and sophomore Rasheed Rushing 

will shoulder return duties. 

FAST FACTS 

head coach: Lynn Keziah 


2009 Record: 2-8-1, 2-6 

– Mike Shaw 

2010 schedule 

Aug.20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Lake Norman 

Aug. 27 . . . . . . . . . .at East Montgomery 

Sept. 10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .at Piedmont 

Sept. 17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Forest Hills 

Sept. 24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .North Stanly 

Oct. 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .at Charlotte Berry 

Oct. 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .West Stanly 

Oct. 15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Monroe 

Oct. 22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .at Cuthbertson 

Nov. 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . .at Central Academy 




SUMMER COACHING CAMEOS 


CHarlotte Berry 

Last season, coach Andrew Howard led 

once-hapless Berry Academy to a school-record 

seven victories and a spot in the Class 2A state 

playoffs. But entering Howard’s fourth season 

at the helm, he’s raised the stakes. 

FAST FACTS 

head coach: Andrew Howard, fourth 



defense, 9 


2009 record: 7-5, 5-3 

2010 schedule 

Aug. 27 . . . . . . . . .at Charlotte Garinger 

Sept. 3 . . . . . . . . . . . Mint Hill Rocky River 

Sept. 10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .at Forest Hills 

Sept. 17 . . . . . . . . . . . . at Central Academy 

Sept. 24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .West Stanly 

Oct. 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Union Academy 

Oct. 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .at Cuthbertson 

Oct. 15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Charlotte Harding 

Oct. 22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .North Stanly 

Oct. 29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .at Monroe 

Nov. 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Piedmont 

The Cardinals have just 10 seniors on the roster 

but return 18 of their 22 starters and plenty 

of team speed. If they don’t improve on last year’s 

first-round playoff exit or their fourth-place finish 

in the Rocky River 1A/2A conference, the 

season would be deemed a setback. 

To reinforce this point, Berry’s players 

agreed on a team motto for the 2010 season 

and printed it on workout T-shirts: “7-5, not 

good enough.” 

Offense 

Berry’s Spread formation attack is stacked 

with experienced athletes at the skill positions, 

led by the explosive Germone Hopper. Howard 

will move Hopper all over the field to take 

advantage of his playmaking ability. The junior 

has collected more than 5,000 all-purpose yards 

in his first two seasons and rushed for 1,202 

yards and 23 touchdowns in 2009. 

Senior quarterback Kenny Patterson is back 

for another campaign. Last year, the 6-foot-6 allconference 

selection threw for 2,192 yards and 

connected on 24 touchdown passes. His favorite 

target after Hopper is Quincy Ekechukwu, who 

caught 30 passes for 485 yards and five touchdowns. 

Returning starter Donovan Clinton will 

anchor the offensive line. 

Defense 

The Cardinals’ base defense is a 4-3 forma- 


Union County coaches were in midseason form during summer 

workouts, including (from left) Piedmont’s Frank Ambrose, 

Weddington’s Justin Hardin. 

tion, but Howard hasn’t ruled out installing 

a 3-5 this season. All-conference defensive 

ends Braxton Hicks (13 sacks) and DaQuazis 

Reid (10 sacks) return. Cornerback Terrance 

Winchester is also back, along with 6-3, 220pound 

middle linebacker Nick Dawson. 

Winchester and Dawson were both allconference 

selections, picking off six and seven 

passes, respectively. Dawson also made 78 stops. 

Elijah Williams had 110 tackles to lead the 

team. 

Cardinals 

Berry’s 2010 team leaders include Elijah Williams, Fred Perry, Nick Dawson and Braxton Hicks. 

sPeCIAL TeAMs 

Hopper made a name for himself as a freshman 

on special teams with a brilliant 97-yard 

touchdown return against powerhouse Butler in 

2008. He scored four more times on special teams 

last season and will be counted on for another 

dazzling year returning punts and kicks. 



Chris Hunt/CWNG photo

Robert Ashcraft/CWNG photo 

A FAn’S GUIDe 

2010 WEEK-BY-WEEK SCHEDULE 


FRIDAY, AUG. 20 

Weddington at Cuthbertson 

Piedmont at Parkwood 

Porter Ridge at Monroe 

Concord at Marvin Ridge 

Anson Senior at Forest Hills 

Gastonia Ashbrook at Sun Valley 

Lake Norman at Union Academy 

Central Academy at East Montgomery 

Carolina Pride at Charlotte Christian 

FRIDAY, AUG. 27 

Weddington at Forest Hills 

Parkwood at Monroe 

Piedmont at Porter Ridge 

Cuthbertson at Concord Robinson 

Marvin Ridge at Harrisburg Hickory Ridge 

Gastonia Highland Tech at Central Academy 

Union Academy at East Montgomery 

Virginia Disciples at Carolina Pride 

FRIDAY, Sept. 3 

Cuthbertson at Marvin Ridge 

Forest Hills at Porter Ridge 

Charlotte Olympic at Sun Valley 

Monroe at Mount Pleasant 

North Gaston at Weddington 

Concord Robinson at Piedmont 

Parkwood at Concord Cox Mill 

Durham Mount Zion at Carolina Pride 


Cuthbertson at North Stanly 

Central Academy at Monroe 

Forest Hills at Charlotte Berry 

Union Academy at Piedmont 

Charlotte Vance at Sun Valley 

Weddington at Charlotte Ardrey Kell 

Charlotte Waddell at Porter Ridge 

Central Cabarrus at Marvin Ridge 

Parkwood at Mount Airy 

Carolina Pride at at Great Great Falls (South Carolina) 


Charlotte Ardrey Kell at Marvin Ridge 

Monroe at Piedmont 

Forest Hills at Union Academy 

Cuthbertson at West Stanly 

Charlotte Berry at Central Academy 

Weddington at Gastonia Hunter Huss 

Porter Ridge at Harrisburg Hickory Ridge 

Parkwood at Northwest Cabarrus 

Sun Valley at Asheville 

Carolina Pride at Central High (Pageland, 

South Carolina) 


Monroe at Cuthbertson 

Piedmont at Forest Hills 

Central Academy at Parkwood 

Marvin Ridge at North Lincoln 

Porter Ridge at Central Cabarrus 

Sun Valley at Wilmington Hoggard 

North Stanly at Union Academy 

Prince Avenue Prep at Carolina Pride 

FRIDAY, oct. 1 

Cuthbertson at Piedmont 

Charlotte Olympic at Weddington 

Central Academy at North Stanly 

Forest Hills at West Stanly 

Sun Valley at Bessemer City 

Union Academy at Charlotte Berry 

AFC Rangers at Carolina Pride 


Porter Ridge at Marvin Ridge 

Weddington at Parkwood 

Charlotte Berry at Cuthbertson 

Central Academy at Piedmont 

North Stanly at Monroe 

Anson Senior at Sun Valley 

West Stanly at Union Academy 

SAtURDAY, SAt SA URDAY, oct. 9 

Carolina Pride at Camden (South Carolina) Military 


Marvin Ridge at Sun Valley 

Parkwood at Porter Ridge 

Cuthbertson at Central Academy 

Monroe at Union Academy 

Anson Senior at Weddington 

Forest Hills at North Stanly 

Piedmont at West Stanly 

Huntersville Lake Norman Charter 

at Carolina Pride 


Sun Valley at Parkwood 

Porter Ridge at Weddington 

Union Academy at Cuthbertson 

Central Academy at Forest Hills 

Marvin Ridge at Anson Senior 

West Stanly at Monroe 

Carolina Pride at Concord Cannon 


Weddington at Sun Valley 

Parkwood at Marvin Ridge 

Forest Hills at Cuthbertson 

Charlotte Berry at Monroe 

Porter Ridge at Anson Senior 

Central Academy at West Stanly 

Piedmont at North Stanly 

Carolina Pride at Raleigh Titans 

FRIDAY, nov. 5 

Marvin Ridge at Weddington 

Monroe at Forest Hills 

Sun Valley at Porter Ridge 

Anson Senior at Parkwood 

Union Academy at Central Academy 

Piedmont at Charlotte Berry 

note: carolina pride home games 

played at Weddington optimist park 


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OUR PRESEASON SUPER 7 TEAM-BY-TEAM PREVIEWS BIG ...

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