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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

New League Gives Freeman Scotties New Hope

A new league means new opportunity for Freeman football.

The Scotties are part of the three-team Northeast A League, which some have dubbed the “KFC League” for members Kettle Falls, Freeman and Colfax.

“We were only one game from being .500 while we were in the old NEA,” said Freeman coach John Custer. “This could be a good step for us. We should be pretty dang competitive here.”

The former eight-team NEA is now the AA Great Northern League, following new classification enrollment guidelines.

Schools in the new three-team incarnation opted for two entry-level state playoff berths, rather than one assured spot in the round of 16.

“Numbers one and two go to a Tuesday pigtail game,” said Custer. “It’s a great opportunity to get a lot of kids into the playoffs. If you deserve a Saturday game you will win on Tuesday.”

Expectations are fairly high at Freeman despite considerable youth.

The line appears solid, third-year quarterback-defensive back Matt Smith heads a talented backfield.

There are two tight ends when last year there were none. The receivers have speed.

“The line is as good as we’ve had since I’ve been here,” said Custer. “The backfield may be the best I’ve ever had.”

Up front is 260-pound sophomore Lance Rasmussen and 185-pound junior Simeon Snyder at tackles.

Returning middle linebacker, junior Jeff Wigen, is at guard. Seniors Matt Kruse, a former running back, is now at center and Chris Meenach returns at guard. Junior Josh Johnson and sophomore center Eric Hendrickson are backups.

Tight ends are Justin Greger and Mike Davis, another former member of the Evergreen Junior High juggernaut four years ago.

Most will play defensively, along with seniors Kevin Stout, Chris Primmer and Zach Broili.

“We’re back to tight end after having none last year,” said Custer. “We had to out of desperation. Never again. I’ll move a tackle there if I have to.”

Junior running backs include Bill Morphy, Brian White and Mark Jacot. They’ll also be at linebacker.

Biggest surprise, said Custer, is senior 200-pound tailback Nate Kiddoo, turning out for the first time in two years. Freshman Chris Fulkerson and sophomore quarterback Kelly Custer will play.

Junior Chris Miller, senior D.J. Goldsmith, injured last year, and sophomore Bill DePell are at receiver and defensive back.

Playing a schedule peppered with B schools, Custer is encouraged. “It’s one where the kids can say we’re at least favored in a few games. We’ve been looking uphill for a long time.”

, DataTimes