No End To Talk Of Parity Injury To CV Standout Tosses Race Into Scramble
Third day of practice, no pads, no contact. Less than 15 minutes left, Rick Giampietri dives on a loose ball.
Just like that, Central Valley loses one of its best players with a third-degree separation of his right shoulder.
Can one injury tip the balance of power among Greater Spokane League football teams?
Not often, but then again, the GSL has been anything but typical the last few years.
The GSL has endured multiple-team tiebreakers to determine participants in the Class AAA playoffs the past three years.
Three years ago, Mead, Gonzaga Prep and Lewis and Clark tied for first with LC the odd-team out in the Kansas tiebreaker.
Two years ago, Mead, LC and Ferris tied for second behind Prep with Mead coming out of the Kansas tiebreaker with the playoff berth.
Last fall, parity reached its zenith - hopefully - with Mead, CV, Rogers, Ferris and Gonzaga Prep tied behind champion LC. When the dust settled, once again Mead was in the playoffs.
“I think it’s been really good for high school football, especially when we’re not in it,” LC coach John Hook said.
So, could it happen again?
Coaches generally picked some combination of Lewis and Clark, Mead and Gonzaga Prep at the top with Central Valley.
With Giampietri sidelined for two to six weeks, CV has big shoes to fill and the Bears open the season with huge games - LC and Mead.
“It was nothing he hadn’t done in seven-on-seven all summer,” Giampietri’s father Rick, the CV head coach, said of the injury. “It didn’t hit me until the next day when I was going to practice. It was the first day since third grade he’s missed a double day.”
It was the young Giampietri who practiced at quarterback for two days after starter R.J. Del Mese was sidelined with a concussion during last year’s Valley jamboree and guided the Bears to a season-opening victory.”
“We have to get people to pick it up mentally, too,” coach Giampietri said.
North Central coach Jerry McCullough likened the league to an hourglass, with those four on top.
“That’s not to say the rest of us couldn’t beat any of those teams,” he said, “but to be consistently beating those teams, it would take a lot of breaks.”
It was McCullough’s winless Indians who upset CV the final weekend of last season to throw the league into a five-way playoff for second.
Also complicating the picture is an absence of returning stars. The league’s single-season and career rushing leader Robert Barlow, two-time offensive Most Valuable Player, has left LC for a junior college in Utah. Gonzaga Prep linebacker Steve Gleason, the defensive MVP the past two years, is now at Washington State.
CV linebacker Jeff Allen is the only returning first-team All-GSL selection.
With Giampietri hurt, all four of the teams expected to be at the top have holes.
The Bears have lost one of the top two-way players and are counting on sophomores for depth.
Mead is breaking in a new quarterback and almost a complete defense.
Lewis and Clark is rebuilding its line on both sides of the ball.
Gonzaga Prep is counting on a lot of sophomores, especially on a defense that suffered heavy graduation losses.
Throw two new coaches into the mix, the fifth time in the last 14 years the league has introduced two new coaches the same year, and it’s easy to predict the usual unpredictability.
“Right now it’s hard to even know what to expect for us,” Hook said.
How much crazier can it get as the Greater Spokane League celebrates its 20th season?
, DataTimes ILLUSTRATION: 3 Photos (1 Color)
MEMO: These 3 sidebars appeared with the story:
1. GSL DAY-BY-DAY SCHEDULE All games at Joe Albi Stadium, unless noted:
Sept. 7 Rogers vs. Mead, 5* Shadle Park vs. Ferris, 7:30
Sept. 8 CV vs. LC, 5:45* NC vs. G-Prep, 8:30 U-Hi at Eisenhower, 7:30
Sept. 14 G-Prep vs. Shadle Park, 5* U-Hi vs. Ferris, 7:30
Sept. 15 NC at Cheney Rogers vs. LC, 5:45 Mead vs. CV, 7:30*
Sept. 21 Mead vs. LC, 7:30*
Sept. 22 CV at U-Hi, 7:30 Ferris vs. Rogers, 5:45* NC vs. Shadle Park, 8:30
Sept. 28 Shadle Park at Post Falls, 5 LC vs. NC, 7:30*
Sept. 29 Rogers at CV, 7:30 U-Hi vs. Mead, 5:45 G-Prep vs. Ferris, 8:30*
Oct. 5 CV vs. Shadle Park, 5 Rogers vs. U-Hi, 7:30*
Oct. 6 NC vs. Mead, 5:45 LC vs. G-Prep, 8:30*
Oct. 12 U-Hi vs. NC, 5 G-Prep vs. CV, 7:30*
Oct. 13 Shadle Park vs. Rogers, 5:45 Ferris vs. Mead, 8:30*
Oct. 19 Ferris vs. LC, 5* Mead vs. G-Prep, 7:30*
Oct. 20 CV vs. NC, 5:45 Shadle Park vs. U-Hi, 8:30
Oct. 26 Ferris vs. CV, 5* Rogers vs. NC, 7:30
Oct. 27 U-Hi vs. G-Prep, 5:45 Shadle Park vs. LC, 8:30
Nov. 2 G-Prep vs. Rogers, 6:30*
Nov. 3 CV at East Valley, 7:30 Mead vs. Shadle Park, 5:45 LC at U-Hi, 7:30 NC vs. Ferris, 8:30
*-Will be broadcast on KTRW 970
2. GREATER SPOKANE LEAGUE
In predicted order of finish:
1. Central Valley Bears 1994 Record: 5-3-0, 6-3-0; tie second Coach: Rick Giampietri Years head coach: 3, all at CV Career record, CV record: 10-7-1; same Key returners: Jeff Allen, 212, sr., first-team LB, also TE-P; Rick Giampietri, 180, sr., second-team RB, also FS; R.J. Del Mese, 180, sr., second-team QB; Mike Van Houten, 215, sr., C; Ryan Millar, 175, sr., WR; Luke Stavros,, 185, sr, FB-LB; Aaron Bauer, 233, sr., LT; Ryan Butner, 160, sr., WR; Chris Burkland, 170, sr., SS; Giorgio Usai, 152, sr., CB; Shane Yackel, 175, sr., LB. Key newcomers: Bob Perkes, 250, sr., RG; Mike Caruso, 290, sr., RT; Jerrett Jordin, 215, sr., LG.; Will Beck, 260, soph., DT; Bob Grizzle, 210, sr., DE; John Hemmert, 185, sr., DE; Nate Bartlett, 207, jr., QB-LB; Brandon Bogue, 220, soph., C; Preston Crossman, 310, soph., DT; Zac Scott, soph., DB; Nate McFarland, soph., DB; Garrett Graham, 200, soph., LB-TE. Quick kicks: The Bears had a playoff spot in their grasp last year until they blew a 14-0 lead against winless North Central the last game of the year. “If we get into that situation again with these kids, it will be learning experience, so it will be a positive,” Coach Giampietri said. The Bears haven’t beaten Mead since 1985. Coach’s comment: “The key for us is to come out of the chute hard and hopefully we’ll still be in the playoff picture. They’re two (Lewis and Clark in opener, Mead in second game) quality teams. It could be a good schedule.” Outlook: Even with young Giampietri separating his shoulder on the third day of practice, the Bears are the team to beat with six other returners on offense, including a quarterback who threw for more than 1,100 yards last year, and five on defense, the most experience in the league. The kicking game has to be rebuilt and many key backups are sophomores.
2. Mead Panthers 1994 Record: 5-3, 6-4; tie second Coach: Mike McLaughlin Years head coach: 14, all at Mead Career record, Mead record: 85-37-2; same Key returners: Adam Morris, 155, sr., second-team WR, also DB; Dustin Lungo, 170, sr., second-team K; Spencer Smith, 200, sr., third-team OL; Larry Carnahan, 195, sr., third-team LB, also FB; Scott McGlocklin, 200, soph., FB; Merrill Alley, 175, sr., WR-LB; Jeremy Davidson, 240, sr., OL; Eric Reyburn, 204, sr., OL; Travis Amann, 190, sr., OL; Jeff Dunlap, 160, sr., S; Mark Romney, dr., NG. Key newcomers: Jason Lewis, 170, sr., QB; Matt Sturm, 178, sr., WR; Alvin Shaylor, 178, sr., RB; Jarret Robbins, 150, sr., RB; Erik Strom, 170, sr., DL-LB; Beau Chandler, 160, sr., LB; Rich Cullen, sr., DB. Quick kicks: The Panthers have been in the playoffs the past six years but have won only one first-round game. In McLaughlin’s previous 13 years, Mead has never finished below .500. Coach’s comment: “Our defense has to grow up and come together immediately. Our offense needs to fulfill some promise early and not put our defense in bad situations. We need to play it pretty close to the vest and hopefully let our kicking game be a factor.” Outlook: It’s a typical Mead team, not real big but better than average speed. The offense is experienced, which will take some pressure off new quarterback Jason Lewis. The more Morris touches the ball, the better the outlook for the Panthers. All the potential contenders have major question marks, so Mead has a solid chance to keep its playoff string going.
3. Lewis and Clark Tigers 1994 Record: 7-1-0, 8-2-0; first place Coach: John Hook Years head coach: 20, 13 at LC Career record, LC record: 108-72-3; 61-45-2 Key returners: Nate Smith, 180, sr., second-team LB, also RB; Mike Homer, 170, sr., third-team DB, also WR; Dario Romero, 241, sr., third-team DL; Paul Mencke, 185, sr., QB; Mike Lynch, 155, sr., WR; Ryan Nail, 172, sr., RB; Josh Bankston, 163, jr., RB; Grant Hunter, 225, sr., OL; Erik Johansson, 160, sr., LB; Billy Morse, 153, sr., DB; Jamie Salgado, 158, sr., DB; Andy Allen, 178, jr., DE; LaSean Grant, jr., 269, DL; Pete Gerl, 177, sr., LB. Key newcomers: Dealy Etter, 175, sr., second-team DB for North Central, also RB; Matt Stueckle, sr., WR; Kyle Powers, 190, sr., C; Brice Stack, jr., OLB-TE; Aaron Ransford, 189, jr., DL; Duane Vick, 195, sr., DL. Quick kicks: The Tigers won their first outright city title since 1967 but self-destructed in the playoffs. Hook has only had two sub-.500 seasons in the last 10 years. Coach’s comment: “It’s great to have a group of athletes who have high expectations for themselves and have a strong tradition to build on.” Outlook: The Tigers will be in the hunt but for how long depends on how fast the offensive and defensive lines mature, especially with Romero injured. The skill positions on offense are strong, as are the linebackers and defensive backs, but very few titles are won (or defended) without winning the war in the trenches.
4. Gonzaga Prep Bullpups 1994 Record: 5-3-0, 5-3-0; tie second Coach: Don Anderson Years head coach: 34, 23 at GP Career record, GP record: 252-52-4; 173-44-3 Key returners:Joe Ascolese, 170, sr., RB; Mark Egger, 175, jr., QB; Chris Norman, 255, sr., OL; Ryan Doree, 220, sr., OL; Ian Kelly, 180, jr., C; Sean McLean, 195, sr., OL; Jason Brezinski, 220, sr., OL; Paul Clark, 190, jr, OL; Darren Ferrell 205, jr., OL; Joe Sacco, 160, sr., DB; Charlie Kinney, 210, sr., LB; Rex Mangiaracina, 185, sr.; Jason Francis, 190, jr., LB; Joe Ireland, 195, jr., LB; Corey Malone, 185, sr., 185, LB; Ciaran Essex, 205, sr., DL; Tyson Thielman, 175, jr., DB. Key newcomers: Kevin O’Connell 6-1, 185, soph., QB. Chris Odenthal, 180, sr., RB; Keith Aparicio, sr., 155, RB; Nick Bliss, 160, soph., RB; Chris Barton, 175, sr., RB; Matt Hall, 150, sr., RB; Zack Yarborough, 180, soph., OL; Brian Cox, 185, sr., TE; Mark Doolittle, 175, soph., TE; Ryan Turner, soph., WR-DB; Ryan Darrow, 160, sr, WR; Shane Hartnett, 180, soph., DB; Jay Herion, 160, soph., DB; Sean Thacker, 165, soph., DB; Austin McDonald, P. Quick kicks: The Bullpups have had one losing season in Anderson’s 22 years and haven’t lost more than five games to any league rival in the last 19 years but their longest current winning streak against another league team is three games. Coach’s comment: “I’m really excited. We have some very fine sophomore athletes. We can be average in a hurry or we could be pretty darn good in a hurry. It’s fun, it keeps me young.” Outlook: The Bullpups have many sophomores, but by all accounts, they’re good ones. How they handle the pressure will determine Prep’s success. Offensively, Anderson said, “Joe Ascolese (the league’s top returning rusher) has to get his hands on the ball, period.” Defensively, linebacker Charlie Kinney is one of the best (with CV’s Jeff Allen), and Joe Ireland, moving from running back, could be. Tradition alone puts Prep among the contenders.
5. Rogers Pirates 1994 Record: 5-3-0, 5-4-0; tie second Coach: Dave Pomante Years head coach: five, all at Rogers Career record, Rogers record: 10-24-0; same Key returners: Shaun McMackin, 185, sr, FB-MLB; Ryan Hill, 170, jr., TB-OLB; Bryant Hemphill, 250, sr., OL; Ryan Shaw, 150, sr., WR; Sean Dainty, 175, sr., TE; Daryl Groom, 130, jr., CB-WR; James Dawe, 145, sr., DL; Lewis Wirth, 215, jr., MLB-OL; Key newcomers: Donny Cuculich, 180, jr., QB; Jeff Mace, 160, soph., QB; Tristan Beeman, 190, jr., TB-LB; Gerry Griffin, 200, jr, C; Travis Brumbaugh, 170, sr., C; Buddy Honshell, 165, jr., C; Carl Gaumer, 200, sr., G-P; Shane Andersen, 190, jr., G; Matt Gilliland, 215, jr., G; James Hutchens, 190, jr., G; Kevin Oglesbee, 155, jr., WR-SS-P; Matt Borders, 150, jr., WR; Kent Browning, 160, jr., FS; Nick Fuller, 150, jr. CB; Matt Prunier, 145, sr., CB; Shawn Carlson, 155, jr, SS-K; Aaron Evans, 180, jr., OLB; Brian Liberty, 150, jr., OLB; J.C. Claassen, 190, jr., DT; Brandon Young, 225, jr., DT; Steve Ruiz, sr., 160, DL; Cougar Devereaux, 175, sr., DE: Adam Jarrad, 195, jr., DE-TE; Travis Brumbaugh, 180, sr., DE; Jim Dearing, 200, jr., DE; Brandon Lang, soph., K. Quick kicks: Only 15 of 80 players are seniors. Last year’s win over Gonzaga Prep was the first since before these players were born. Now Ferris has the longest winning streak against Rogers at 10. Coach’s comment: “They deserve to be successful, they work extremely hard. What the previous kids have done in the past has carried on, it’s especially visible with these kids this year. Our expectation is to go in there and compete. We’re not going to use this young thing as an excuse.” Outlook: The Pirates, as always, will run the ball. If successful, they can shorten the game to take pressure off young quarterbacks and inexperienced defense. What Rogers lacks in size and experience, it makes up for in enthusiasm. The underclassmen have been successful, and Pomante gives sophomores the Albi experience on special teams. This may be high for such a young team, but is a reflection of the way the coaching staff has the program going.
6. Ferris Saxons 1994 Record: 5-3-0, 5-3-0; tie second Coach: Clarence Hough Years head coach: first Career record, Ferris record: 0-0-0; same Key returners: Tim Benton, 180, sr., second-team LB, also RB; Craig Henneberry, 185, sr., WR-DB-P. Key newcomers: Justin Bursch, 180, jr., QB; B.J. Wilkerson, 175, jr., RB; Eli Guerin, 190, jr., TE: Mike Hawley, 240, jr., T-DE; Andrew Gunderson, 270, sr., G; Jeff Dahmen, 200, sr., C-DT; Allen Eveland, sr., 200, G; David Eastham, 200, jr., T-DE; Ty Williams, 170, soph., WR; Jonathan Parker, 160, soph., WR.; Garth Hamilton, 180, soph., DT; James Missel, 205, soph., DT; Isaac Carter Jr., 200, frosh., LB; Aaron Wagner, 185, jr., LB; Steve Queen, 185, sr., LB; Josh Wagner, jr., 175, OLB; Joel Soter, 165, jr., OLB; Richard Cassens, 175, jr., OLB-K; Eric Canaday, 160, sr., DB; Chris Gay, 143, sr, DB; Brent Molsberry, 165 jr., DB; John Slack, 136, soph., K. Quick kicks: Only two starters return but the transition to a new coach should be relatively smooth since Hough was an assistant in the GSL for 15 years before replacing Pat Pfeifer. Coach’s comment: “I’m a little different offensively than Pat has been in the past. We’ll have a tight end and two backs in the backfield. My personal philosophy is I run to throw and he threw to run. He featured four receivers and one back.” Outlook: Despite a new coach and lack of experience, the Saxons might not fall this far but if they do, they won’t stay down long. By all accounts, the Saxons are talented down to the junior high level. Offensively, they’ll try to run. If the defensive line can stop the run, they should be fine on that side of the ball.
7. University Titans 1994 Record: 1-6-1; 1-7-1; tie seventh Coach: Mike Ganey Years head coach: three, all at U-Hi Career record, U-Hi record: 3-14-1; same Key returners: Mike Roberg, 240, sr., second-team TE, also DT; Jeff Hollenbach, 215, sr., G; Joe Jefferies, 150, sr., WR; Ryan Massey, 175, sr, WR-P; Kurt Moore, 170, sr., WR; Casey Cornelius, 180, sr., QB; Mike Rosa, 190, sr., MLB-FB; Jason Daniel, 190, sr., FB; Zaq Flanary, 210, jr., LB-OL; Brad Nollmeyer, 170, sr., CB; Mike Turner, 140, jr., CB. Key newcomers: Tim Buchanan, 180, jr., TB; Mike Clark, 190, sr., G; Don Wetzbarger, 205, sr., OL; Jeff Schmedding, 205, sr., OL; Jason Berger, jr., WR; Cody Hirschi, jr., WR-LB; Brian McMurtrey, 170, sr., LB; Kelly Tift, 150, jr., K. Quick kicks: Despite just three winning seasons in the last 10 years, the Titans are 6-4 against rival Central Valley. Coach’s comment: “We have to develop a basis of believing in ourselves that we can get the job done … and overcome any adversity. (The key is) just getting a few wins under our belts.” Outlook: The biggest hurdle for the Titans is mental. Besides believing they can win, they have to keep from giving up points late in the first half, which is so demoralizing. Strong in the summer passing league. If that translates into a quick start, the Titans could be the sleeper.
8. North Central Indians 1994 Record: 1-7-0, 1-8-0; ninth Coach: Jerry McCullough Years head coach: 24, 10 at NC Career record, NC record: 87-106-0; 21-58-0 Key returners: Pat Wall, 160, sr., third-team NG now LB; Rance McCullough, 190, sr., G-DE; Keith Ford, 184, sr., G; Travis Hansen, 230, sr., C; Lewis Tomlinson, 200, sr., FB; Jerry Holdren, 198, sr., TE-DB; Nick Pugliese, 180, sr., DB-WR; Colin Turnbull, 160, sr., K; Brandon Harmer, 195, jr., DE; Dan Moore, 275, jr., DT-OT; Matt Wilson, 180, sr., NG; Aaron Brown, 175, sr., LB; Bryan Levesque, 195, jr., LB; Dartiste Johnson, 170, sr., DB-RB; Key newcomers: Matt Bernards, 170, jr., QB; Mike Caballero, 180, soph., QB; Troy Kapelke, 185, sr., TE; Brett Jordan, 292, jr, OT; Brian Burrow, 240, jr, OT; Justin Williams, 170, jr, RB-DB; Justin Lake, 170, jr., RB-DB; Ryan Corigliano, 165, jr., RB; Dustin Clark, 160, soph., WR; Kurt Plaster, jr., WR; Justin Harrison, 195, jr., DT; Toby Rose, 175, jr., DB. Quick kicks: In McCullough’s nine years, the Indians have just 21 wins, but five times they won their last game. Coach’s comment: “In terms of winning and losing, that topic is difficult to address for any team. A lot of things have to come together. A key element for us is leadership. On paper we look pretty good. If we can get some kids to step up and be positive leaders for us, that will be one of the key items.” Outlook: The interior line is experienced and Tomlinson is one of the top returning rushers, so if one of the quarterbacks takes charge, the Indians could be effective. On defense, the pass defense has to improve and that is a focal point in practice. NC has good size and experience and could finish much higher with some breaks.
9. Shadle Park Highlanders 1994 Record: 1-6-1, 1-6-1; tie seventh Coach: Mark Hester Years head coach: 13, first at SP Career record, SP record: 69-45-0; 0-0-0 Key returners: Shawn Kingsbury, 185, sr., RB-OLB-P; Trevor Walters, 150, sr., RB-NG; Joe Walters, 165, QB-DB; Garritt Wideman, 200, sr., TE-DL; Rob Holland, 155, sr., CB; Jeremy Huston, 150, sr., OLB. Key newcomers: Josh Scheidner, 170, sr., G; Russ Seaman, 165, sr., C; Tom Mohr, jr., TE; Cameron Schultz, 170, sr., T; Doug Humphreys, 185, sr., T; Kris Walters, 150, jr., QB-K-P; Dan Klein, 170, sr., ILB; Jeff Lafferty, 170, jr., ILB; Clint Williamson, 215, jr., DT; Carey Hipps, 165, jr., DT. Quick kicks: Despite recent struggles, the Highlanders’ longest non-winning string is four games, against U-Hi. Coach’s comment: “We’re just going to have to be mean, ornery and tough because we’re not big.” Outlook: Though the defense is similar to what the Highlanders have run in the past, the offense is completely different with two tight ends and a full-house backfield. Despite some good skill people coming back and an infusion of successful junior varsity players, that may be too much to overcome for a positive turnaround this soon.
3. PLAYERS TO WATCH 1. Rick Giampietri, senior, running back/defensive back, Central Valley. One of the top two-way players in the league, separated a shoulder the third day of practice. 2. R.J. Del Mese, senior, quarterback, Central Valley. With Giampietri sidelined, Del Mese must handle the pressure. 3. Joe Ascolese, senior, running back, Gonzaga Prep. Gained 504 yards last year, fifth in league. 4. Adam Morris, senior, receiver/defensive back, Mead. Little guy gets big results. 5. Tim Benton, senior, running back/defensive back, Ferris. A major talent has a lot of responsibility for inexperienced team. 6. Paul Mencke, senior, quarterback, Lewis and Clark. Has won a couple big games in reserve role, now it’s his time. 7. Dealy Etter, senior, defensive back/running back, Lewis and Clark. A big-play guy for North Central, on the hot-seat after transfer. 8. Mike Roberg, senior, tight end, University. Could be the top college prospect in the league. 9. Dustin Lungo, senior, kicker, Mead. Along with NC’s Colin Turnbull, carries on GSL’s tradition of good kickers. 10. Matt Sturm, senior, receiver, Mead. LC has the top returning group, but Sturm is the league sprint champion. 11. Will Beck, sophomore, defensive lineman, Central Valley. Let this man-child represent a sophomore class coaches throughout the league are talking about and who’s going to argue with a 260-pounder. Watch Sean Thacker and Kevin O’Connell at Prep.
1. GSL DAY-BY-DAY SCHEDULE All games at Joe Albi Stadium, unless noted:
Sept. 7 Rogers vs. Mead, 5* Shadle Park vs. Ferris, 7:30
Sept. 8 CV vs. LC, 5:45* NC vs. G-Prep, 8:30 U-Hi at Eisenhower, 7:30
Sept. 14 G-Prep vs. Shadle Park, 5* U-Hi vs. Ferris, 7:30
Sept. 15 NC at Cheney Rogers vs. LC, 5:45 Mead vs. CV, 7:30*
Sept. 21 Mead vs. LC, 7:30*
Sept. 22 CV at U-Hi, 7:30 Ferris vs. Rogers, 5:45* NC vs. Shadle Park, 8:30
Sept. 28 Shadle Park at Post Falls, 5 LC vs. NC, 7:30*
Sept. 29 Rogers at CV, 7:30 U-Hi vs. Mead, 5:45 G-Prep vs. Ferris, 8:30*
Oct. 5 CV vs. Shadle Park, 5 Rogers vs. U-Hi, 7:30*
Oct. 6 NC vs. Mead, 5:45 LC vs. G-Prep, 8:30*
Oct. 12 U-Hi vs. NC, 5 G-Prep vs. CV, 7:30*
Oct. 13 Shadle Park vs. Rogers, 5:45 Ferris vs. Mead, 8:30*
Oct. 19 Ferris vs. LC, 5* Mead vs. G-Prep, 7:30*
Oct. 20 CV vs. NC, 5:45 Shadle Park vs. U-Hi, 8:30
Oct. 26 Ferris vs. CV, 5* Rogers vs. NC, 7:30
Oct. 27 U-Hi vs. G-Prep, 5:45 Shadle Park vs. LC, 8:30
Nov. 2 G-Prep vs. Rogers, 6:30*
Nov. 3 CV at East Valley, 7:30 Mead vs. Shadle Park, 5:45 LC at U-Hi, 7:30 NC vs. Ferris, 8:30
*-Will be broadcast on KTRW 970
2. GREATER SPOKANE LEAGUE
In predicted order of finish:
1. Central Valley Bears 1994 Record: 5-3-0, 6-3-0; tie second Coach: Rick Giampietri Years head coach: 3, all at CV Career record, CV record: 10-7-1; same Key returners: Jeff Allen, 212, sr., first-team LB, also TE-P; Rick Giampietri, 180, sr., second-team RB, also FS; R.J. Del Mese, 180, sr., second-team QB; Mike Van Houten, 215, sr., C; Ryan Millar, 175, sr., WR; Luke Stavros,, 185, sr, FB-LB; Aaron Bauer, 233, sr., LT; Ryan Butner, 160, sr., WR; Chris Burkland, 170, sr., SS; Giorgio Usai, 152, sr., CB; Shane Yackel, 175, sr., LB. Key newcomers: Bob Perkes, 250, sr., RG; Mike Caruso, 290, sr., RT; Jerrett Jordin, 215, sr., LG.; Will Beck, 260, soph., DT; Bob Grizzle, 210, sr., DE; John Hemmert, 185, sr., DE; Nate Bartlett, 207, jr., QB-LB; Brandon Bogue, 220, soph., C; Preston Crossman, 310, soph., DT; Zac Scott, soph., DB; Nate McFarland, soph., DB; Garrett Graham, 200, soph., LB-TE. Quick kicks: The Bears had a playoff spot in their grasp last year until they blew a 14-0 lead against winless North Central the last game of the year. “If we get into that situation again with these kids, it will be learning experience, so it will be a positive,” Coach Giampietri said. The Bears haven’t beaten Mead since 1985. Coach’s comment: “The key for us is to come out of the chute hard and hopefully we’ll still be in the playoff picture. They’re two (Lewis and Clark in opener, Mead in second game) quality teams. It could be a good schedule.” Outlook: Even with young Giampietri separating his shoulder on the third day of practice, the Bears are the team to beat with six other returners on offense, including a quarterback who threw for more than 1,100 yards last year, and five on defense, the most experience in the league. The kicking game has to be rebuilt and many key backups are sophomores.
2. Mead Panthers 1994 Record: 5-3, 6-4; tie second Coach: Mike McLaughlin Years head coach: 14, all at Mead Career record, Mead record: 85-37-2; same Key returners: Adam Morris, 155, sr., second-team WR, also DB; Dustin Lungo, 170, sr., second-team K; Spencer Smith, 200, sr., third-team OL; Larry Carnahan, 195, sr., third-team LB, also FB; Scott McGlocklin, 200, soph., FB; Merrill Alley, 175, sr., WR-LB; Jeremy Davidson, 240, sr., OL; Eric Reyburn, 204, sr., OL; Travis Amann, 190, sr., OL; Jeff Dunlap, 160, sr., S; Mark Romney, dr., NG. Key newcomers: Jason Lewis, 170, sr., QB; Matt Sturm, 178, sr., WR; Alvin Shaylor, 178, sr., RB; Jarret Robbins, 150, sr., RB; Erik Strom, 170, sr., DL-LB; Beau Chandler, 160, sr., LB; Rich Cullen, sr., DB. Quick kicks: The Panthers have been in the playoffs the past six years but have won only one first-round game. In McLaughlin’s previous 13 years, Mead has never finished below .500. Coach’s comment: “Our defense has to grow up and come together immediately. Our offense needs to fulfill some promise early and not put our defense in bad situations. We need to play it pretty close to the vest and hopefully let our kicking game be a factor.” Outlook: It’s a typical Mead team, not real big but better than average speed. The offense is experienced, which will take some pressure off new quarterback Jason Lewis. The more Morris touches the ball, the better the outlook for the Panthers. All the potential contenders have major question marks, so Mead has a solid chance to keep its playoff string going.
3. Lewis and Clark Tigers 1994 Record: 7-1-0, 8-2-0; first place Coach: John Hook Years head coach: 20, 13 at LC Career record, LC record: 108-72-3; 61-45-2 Key returners: Nate Smith, 180, sr., second-team LB, also RB; Mike Homer, 170, sr., third-team DB, also WR; Dario Romero, 241, sr., third-team DL; Paul Mencke, 185, sr., QB; Mike Lynch, 155, sr., WR; Ryan Nail, 172, sr., RB; Josh Bankston, 163, jr., RB; Grant Hunter, 225, sr., OL; Erik Johansson, 160, sr., LB; Billy Morse, 153, sr., DB; Jamie Salgado, 158, sr., DB; Andy Allen, 178, jr., DE; LaSean Grant, jr., 269, DL; Pete Gerl, 177, sr., LB. Key newcomers: Dealy Etter, 175, sr., second-team DB for North Central, also RB; Matt Stueckle, sr., WR; Kyle Powers, 190, sr., C; Brice Stack, jr., OLB-TE; Aaron Ransford, 189, jr., DL; Duane Vick, 195, sr., DL. Quick kicks: The Tigers won their first outright city title since 1967 but self-destructed in the playoffs. Hook has only had two sub-.500 seasons in the last 10 years. Coach’s comment: “It’s great to have a group of athletes who have high expectations for themselves and have a strong tradition to build on.” Outlook: The Tigers will be in the hunt but for how long depends on how fast the offensive and defensive lines mature, especially with Romero injured. The skill positions on offense are strong, as are the linebackers and defensive backs, but very few titles are won (or defended) without winning the war in the trenches.
4. Gonzaga Prep Bullpups 1994 Record: 5-3-0, 5-3-0; tie second Coach: Don Anderson Years head coach: 34, 23 at GP Career record, GP record: 252-52-4; 173-44-3 Key returners:Joe Ascolese, 170, sr., RB; Mark Egger, 175, jr., QB; Chris Norman, 255, sr., OL; Ryan Doree, 220, sr., OL; Ian Kelly, 180, jr., C; Sean McLean, 195, sr., OL; Jason Brezinski, 220, sr., OL; Paul Clark, 190, jr, OL; Darren Ferrell 205, jr., OL; Joe Sacco, 160, sr., DB; Charlie Kinney, 210, sr., LB; Rex Mangiaracina, 185, sr.; Jason Francis, 190, jr., LB; Joe Ireland, 195, jr., LB; Corey Malone, 185, sr., 185, LB; Ciaran Essex, 205, sr., DL; Tyson Thielman, 175, jr., DB. Key newcomers: Kevin O’Connell 6-1, 185, soph., QB. Chris Odenthal, 180, sr., RB; Keith Aparicio, sr., 155, RB; Nick Bliss, 160, soph., RB; Chris Barton, 175, sr., RB; Matt Hall, 150, sr., RB; Zack Yarborough, 180, soph., OL; Brian Cox, 185, sr., TE; Mark Doolittle, 175, soph., TE; Ryan Turner, soph., WR-DB; Ryan Darrow, 160, sr, WR; Shane Hartnett, 180, soph., DB; Jay Herion, 160, soph., DB; Sean Thacker, 165, soph., DB; Austin McDonald, P. Quick kicks: The Bullpups have had one losing season in Anderson’s 22 years and haven’t lost more than five games to any league rival in the last 19 years but their longest current winning streak against another league team is three games. Coach’s comment: “I’m really excited. We have some very fine sophomore athletes. We can be average in a hurry or we could be pretty darn good in a hurry. It’s fun, it keeps me young.” Outlook: The Bullpups have many sophomores, but by all accounts, they’re good ones. How they handle the pressure will determine Prep’s success. Offensively, Anderson said, “Joe Ascolese (the league’s top returning rusher) has to get his hands on the ball, period.” Defensively, linebacker Charlie Kinney is one of the best (with CV’s Jeff Allen), and Joe Ireland, moving from running back, could be. Tradition alone puts Prep among the contenders.
5. Rogers Pirates 1994 Record: 5-3-0, 5-4-0; tie second Coach: Dave Pomante Years head coach: five, all at Rogers Career record, Rogers record: 10-24-0; same Key returners: Shaun McMackin, 185, sr, FB-MLB; Ryan Hill, 170, jr., TB-OLB; Bryant Hemphill, 250, sr., OL; Ryan Shaw, 150, sr., WR; Sean Dainty, 175, sr., TE; Daryl Groom, 130, jr., CB-WR; James Dawe, 145, sr., DL; Lewis Wirth, 215, jr., MLB-OL; Key newcomers: Donny Cuculich, 180, jr., QB; Jeff Mace, 160, soph., QB; Tristan Beeman, 190, jr., TB-LB; Gerry Griffin, 200, jr, C; Travis Brumbaugh, 170, sr., C; Buddy Honshell, 165, jr., C; Carl Gaumer, 200, sr., G-P; Shane Andersen, 190, jr., G; Matt Gilliland, 215, jr., G; James Hutchens, 190, jr., G; Kevin Oglesbee, 155, jr., WR-SS-P; Matt Borders, 150, jr., WR; Kent Browning, 160, jr., FS; Nick Fuller, 150, jr. CB; Matt Prunier, 145, sr., CB; Shawn Carlson, 155, jr, SS-K; Aaron Evans, 180, jr., OLB; Brian Liberty, 150, jr., OLB; J.C. Claassen, 190, jr., DT; Brandon Young, 225, jr., DT; Steve Ruiz, sr., 160, DL; Cougar Devereaux, 175, sr., DE: Adam Jarrad, 195, jr., DE-TE; Travis Brumbaugh, 180, sr., DE; Jim Dearing, 200, jr., DE; Brandon Lang, soph., K. Quick kicks: Only 15 of 80 players are seniors. Last year’s win over Gonzaga Prep was the first since before these players were born. Now Ferris has the longest winning streak against Rogers at 10. Coach’s comment: “They deserve to be successful, they work extremely hard. What the previous kids have done in the past has carried on, it’s especially visible with these kids this year. Our expectation is to go in there and compete. We’re not going to use this young thing as an excuse.” Outlook: The Pirates, as always, will run the ball. If successful, they can shorten the game to take pressure off young quarterbacks and inexperienced defense. What Rogers lacks in size and experience, it makes up for in enthusiasm. The underclassmen have been successful, and Pomante gives sophomores the Albi experience on special teams. This may be high for such a young team, but is a reflection of the way the coaching staff has the program going.
6. Ferris Saxons 1994 Record: 5-3-0, 5-3-0; tie second Coach: Clarence Hough Years head coach: first Career record, Ferris record: 0-0-0; same Key returners: Tim Benton, 180, sr., second-team LB, also RB; Craig Henneberry, 185, sr., WR-DB-P. Key newcomers: Justin Bursch, 180, jr., QB; B.J. Wilkerson, 175, jr., RB; Eli Guerin, 190, jr., TE: Mike Hawley, 240, jr., T-DE; Andrew Gunderson, 270, sr., G; Jeff Dahmen, 200, sr., C-DT; Allen Eveland, sr., 200, G; David Eastham, 200, jr., T-DE; Ty Williams, 170, soph., WR; Jonathan Parker, 160, soph., WR.; Garth Hamilton, 180, soph., DT; James Missel, 205, soph., DT; Isaac Carter Jr., 200, frosh., LB; Aaron Wagner, 185, jr., LB; Steve Queen, 185, sr., LB; Josh Wagner, jr., 175, OLB; Joel Soter, 165, jr., OLB; Richard Cassens, 175, jr., OLB-K; Eric Canaday, 160, sr., DB; Chris Gay, 143, sr, DB; Brent Molsberry, 165 jr., DB; John Slack, 136, soph., K. Quick kicks: Only two starters return but the transition to a new coach should be relatively smooth since Hough was an assistant in the GSL for 15 years before replacing Pat Pfeifer. Coach’s comment: “I’m a little different offensively than Pat has been in the past. We’ll have a tight end and two backs in the backfield. My personal philosophy is I run to throw and he threw to run. He featured four receivers and one back.” Outlook: Despite a new coach and lack of experience, the Saxons might not fall this far but if they do, they won’t stay down long. By all accounts, the Saxons are talented down to the junior high level. Offensively, they’ll try to run. If the defensive line can stop the run, they should be fine on that side of the ball.
7. University Titans 1994 Record: 1-6-1; 1-7-1; tie seventh Coach: Mike Ganey Years head coach: three, all at U-Hi Career record, U-Hi record: 3-14-1; same Key returners: Mike Roberg, 240, sr., second-team TE, also DT; Jeff Hollenbach, 215, sr., G; Joe Jefferies, 150, sr., WR; Ryan Massey, 175, sr, WR-P; Kurt Moore, 170, sr., WR; Casey Cornelius, 180, sr., QB; Mike Rosa, 190, sr., MLB-FB; Jason Daniel, 190, sr., FB; Zaq Flanary, 210, jr., LB-OL; Brad Nollmeyer, 170, sr., CB; Mike Turner, 140, jr., CB. Key newcomers: Tim Buchanan, 180, jr., TB; Mike Clark, 190, sr., G; Don Wetzbarger, 205, sr., OL; Jeff Schmedding, 205, sr., OL; Jason Berger, jr., WR; Cody Hirschi, jr., WR-LB; Brian McMurtrey, 170, sr., LB; Kelly Tift, 150, jr., K. Quick kicks: Despite just three winning seasons in the last 10 years, the Titans are 6-4 against rival Central Valley. Coach’s comment: “We have to develop a basis of believing in ourselves that we can get the job done … and overcome any adversity. (The key is) just getting a few wins under our belts.” Outlook: The biggest hurdle for the Titans is mental. Besides believing they can win, they have to keep from giving up points late in the first half, which is so demoralizing. Strong in the summer passing league. If that translates into a quick start, the Titans could be the sleeper.
8. North Central Indians 1994 Record: 1-7-0, 1-8-0; ninth Coach: Jerry McCullough Years head coach: 24, 10 at NC Career record, NC record: 87-106-0; 21-58-0 Key returners: Pat Wall, 160, sr., third-team NG now LB; Rance McCullough, 190, sr., G-DE; Keith Ford, 184, sr., G; Travis Hansen, 230, sr., C; Lewis Tomlinson, 200, sr., FB; Jerry Holdren, 198, sr., TE-DB; Nick Pugliese, 180, sr., DB-WR; Colin Turnbull, 160, sr., K; Brandon Harmer, 195, jr., DE; Dan Moore, 275, jr., DT-OT; Matt Wilson, 180, sr., NG; Aaron Brown, 175, sr., LB; Bryan Levesque, 195, jr., LB; Dartiste Johnson, 170, sr., DB-RB; Key newcomers: Matt Bernards, 170, jr., QB; Mike Caballero, 180, soph., QB; Troy Kapelke, 185, sr., TE; Brett Jordan, 292, jr, OT; Brian Burrow, 240, jr, OT; Justin Williams, 170, jr, RB-DB; Justin Lake, 170, jr., RB-DB; Ryan Corigliano, 165, jr., RB; Dustin Clark, 160, soph., WR; Kurt Plaster, jr., WR; Justin Harrison, 195, jr., DT; Toby Rose, 175, jr., DB. Quick kicks: In McCullough’s nine years, the Indians have just 21 wins, but five times they won their last game. Coach’s comment: “In terms of winning and losing, that topic is difficult to address for any team. A lot of things have to come together. A key element for us is leadership. On paper we look pretty good. If we can get some kids to step up and be positive leaders for us, that will be one of the key items.” Outlook: The interior line is experienced and Tomlinson is one of the top returning rushers, so if one of the quarterbacks takes charge, the Indians could be effective. On defense, the pass defense has to improve and that is a focal point in practice. NC has good size and experience and could finish much higher with some breaks.
9. Shadle Park Highlanders 1994 Record: 1-6-1, 1-6-1; tie seventh Coach: Mark Hester Years head coach: 13, first at SP Career record, SP record: 69-45-0; 0-0-0 Key returners: Shawn Kingsbury, 185, sr., RB-OLB-P; Trevor Walters, 150, sr., RB-NG; Joe Walters, 165, QB-DB; Garritt Wideman, 200, sr., TE-DL; Rob Holland, 155, sr., CB; Jeremy Huston, 150, sr., OLB. Key newcomers: Josh Scheidner, 170, sr., G; Russ Seaman, 165, sr., C; Tom Mohr, jr., TE; Cameron Schultz, 170, sr., T; Doug Humphreys, 185, sr., T; Kris Walters, 150, jr., QB-K-P; Dan Klein, 170, sr., ILB; Jeff Lafferty, 170, jr., ILB; Clint Williamson, 215, jr., DT; Carey Hipps, 165, jr., DT. Quick kicks: Despite recent struggles, the Highlanders’ longest non-winning string is four games, against U-Hi. Coach’s comment: “We’re just going to have to be mean, ornery and tough because we’re not big.” Outlook: Though the defense is similar to what the Highlanders have run in the past, the offense is completely different with two tight ends and a full-house backfield. Despite some good skill people coming back and an infusion of successful junior varsity players, that may be too much to overcome for a positive turnaround this soon.
3. PLAYERS TO WATCH 1. Rick Giampietri, senior, running back/defensive back, Central Valley. One of the top two-way players in the league, separated a shoulder the third day of practice. 2. R.J. Del Mese, senior, quarterback, Central Valley. With Giampietri sidelined, Del Mese must handle the pressure. 3. Joe Ascolese, senior, running back, Gonzaga Prep. Gained 504 yards last year, fifth in league. 4. Adam Morris, senior, receiver/defensive back, Mead. Little guy gets big results. 5. Tim Benton, senior, running back/defensive back, Ferris. A major talent has a lot of responsibility for inexperienced team. 6. Paul Mencke, senior, quarterback, Lewis and Clark. Has won a couple big games in reserve role, now it’s his time. 7. Dealy Etter, senior, defensive back/running back, Lewis and Clark. A big-play guy for North Central, on the hot-seat after transfer. 8. Mike Roberg, senior, tight end, University. Could be the top college prospect in the league. 9. Dustin Lungo, senior, kicker, Mead. Along with NC’s Colin Turnbull, carries on GSL’s tradition of good kickers. 10. Matt Sturm, senior, receiver, Mead. LC has the top returning group, but Sturm is the league sprint champion. 11. Will Beck, sophomore, defensive lineman, Central Valley. Let this man-child represent a sophomore class coaches throughout the league are talking about and who’s going to argue with a 260-pounder. Watch Sean Thacker and Kevin O’Connell at Prep.