AA Varsity BC High School Football

Playoff's Round Three

2011-11-20T11:17:00.000-08:00

AA Varsity BC Semi-Final Games

John Barsby vs Vernon: Kudos to the Panthers on their victory and their Semi-Final appearance! Well done guys! John Barsby struggled finding any kind of offensive consistency during the first half of their quarter-final game vs Abbottsford last weekend. They did improve in the second half which has to be a somewhat gratifying. As the games get only bigger, this has to be corrected if the Dawgs are to advance. Vernon is getting it done in all of their big games thus far in 2011. The speed of the Barsby defense is going to present some problems for the Panthers to overcome. These teams have met in the playoffs twice before (1999 and 2004) with the Dawgs coming out on top. All things considered, Barsby has the depth to win a third time.

Gridiron's Pick: Barsby by 16

Mission vs Ballenas: Mission has yet to be seriously tested by BC AA varsity competition in 2011. Is Ballenas the team to get it done? I think the first quarter of the Ballenas-Holy Cross game is a preview of how things will go. The Crusaders ran unbalanced, power football at the Whalers and gashed em hard for the first quarter and a half of the game. Mission quite simply wins all of the match-ups up front and they have better running backs than HC did. The Whalers have a chance in this one only with a lot, and I mean a lot of turnovers going in their favour. High school football is a funny game however, and you can never count out a prohibitive underdog playing the game of their lives at exactly the right moment in time.

Gridiron's Pick: Mission by 18

Tier 2 Varsity BC Championship Final "The Ackles Cup"

Nanaimo District vs Howe Sound: These two teams met several weeks ago in a game that turned-out to be the biggest test of the year for the Islanders. Gang Green had to recover from a 12-0 deficit to propel themselves past the hard-nosed Sounders on Nanaimo home turf. Now the Island squad has to travel to play their most dangerous foe for all the marbles this coming weekend. Both of these squads run similar offenses and play the game with a physical edge. I don't think that Nanaimo is going to get surprised this time around and I believe they have a better kicking game as well.

Gridiron's Pick: Nanaimo District by 11

Gridiron's Playoff Picks: Round Two

2011-11-13T08:07:00.000-08:00

Gridiron's AA Varsity Top Five

1. Mission
2. John Barsby
3. Ballenas
4. Abbottsford Collegiate
5. South Delta

Gridiron's Tier 2 Varsity Top Five

1. Nanaimo District
2. Belmont
3. Timberline
4. Howe Sound
5. G.P. Vanier/Edward Milne

Gridiron's Picks

AA Varsity BC Quarter-Final Picks

John Barsby vs Abbottsford Collegiate: The Panthers are coming off of a huge win and program milestone vs the Handsworth Royals this past Saturday. This team has pride and tons of momentum coming up against Nanaimo's John Barsby Bulldogs. The Panthers have been putting a lot of points on the board and their passing game is a threat to score on every snap. Defensivley, these guys are tough as well. The John Barsby defense has not allowed a score since their week 6 game vs Handsworth. This ought to be a good match-up between the two opposing units. Look for the kicking game to play a big role in field position come gameday. Whomever is on a short field will roll.

GI's Pick: Barsby by 18

Vernon vs Rick Hansen: Wow, who would have picked this match-up for the quarter-final game? Vernon is coming off of a dramatic overtime victory and Rick Hansen, a shocking win over Seaquam. High school football baby, the games are played for a reason and you can never underestimate the capacity of a group of 16 and 17 year olds to catch fire and exceed all expectations. Hansen rolls into the game with a) more playoff experience; b) a more balanced offensive attack; c) a shorter trip to the game and d) a tougher league schedule behind them. Vernon has a more athletic squad and has had a season of game winning performances. They come in to the game with high expectations of themselves. Kicking game will again in this match-up, be a potent force in terms of determining the outcome.

GI's Pick: History is going to be made this weekend with an Interior squad playing its way into the BC Semi-Final game for the first time in over a decade. Vernon by 8

Ballenas vs Hugh Boyd: The Trojans have completed their season's turn-around and have won a string of close, late season games with a lot hinging on the outcome. The Trojan defense has been very reluctant to give-up points keeping every game winnable for their offensive counterparts. The Whalers are having a fine season of their own and are consistently scoring over 30 points a contest offensivley. The special teams group for Ballenas is outstanding and the blue defenders are hard-hitting and opportunistic. An early surge by Holy Cross last week faltered under the relentless Whaler offensive attack and by game's end, the game was clearly in hand. I like the Whaler team speed in this one as the difference maker. Boyd is going to have to get some turnover breaks and start on a very short field consistently to have a realistic shot at victory.

GI's Pick: Whalers by 14

Mission vs South Delta: Mission has clearly been an "order above" in terms of roster depth, size, speed and overall execution in 2011. The Sundevils have been struggling with consistency throughout the year. If the blue and gold can keep their emotions in check and execute their offense to a high degree, I see em making the game a bit closer than most expect it to be. Mission has not been tested north of the 49th and will likely not be tested come game day. These guys are quite frankly the complete package on both sides of the ball and they will absolutely Dominate the line of scrimmage. The Mission receivers block exceptionally well in space as well and this means that SD is going to have fits stopping the run inside and out.

GI's Pick: Mission by 36

Tier 2 Varsity BC Semi-Final Picks

Nanaimo District vs Timberline: It is playoff time and sure enough, we have a Timberline-Nanaimo District tilt on our hands. Timberline is coming off of its most impressive victory of the year vs G.P. Vanier. Nanaimo District is coming off of a bye. The Wolves will be rolling on to the playing field with all the momentum on their side, a healthy roster and the feeling that all the pieces are coming together. Nanaimo District found themselves reading their own press clippings early on in their last big tilt vs Howe Sound. This led to a costly first quarter and a half and a hole to be climbed out of. Athletically, both teams are evenly matched and I think the biggest factor may very well be the weather. Running the football and hanging on to the dang thing are going to be equally important. Nanaimo's kicking game is as good as it gets and field position will be crucial come gameday. This game will be fun to watch!

GI's Pick: Nanaimo District by 7

Belmont vs Howe Sound: Belmont is surging late in the season and Howe Sound has been doing the same with the exception of a tough loss to Nanaimo District. The Sounders have a long travel day headed into this tilt and have not fared overly well versus spread offenses that are run with any degree of skill. Belmont has seen double-wing twice this year and has played against it for half a decade previously. No great surprises for them. This game is going to come down to a) grit and b) composure. Penalties will really hurt either squad as big plays are going to be few and far between in long distance situations come gameday. Kicking and handling the bounces on Belmont's artificial turf surface will also be problematic. Practice those short kicks both ways fellas! This may very well be the closest game of the weekend.

GI's Pick: Belmont by 2

Gridiron's Playoff Picks Round 1

2011-11-08T08:58:00.000-08:00

Gridiron's AA Varsity Top Five

1. Mission
2. John Barsby
3. Ballenas
4. Seaquam
5. Handsworth

Gridiron's Tier 2 Varsity Top Five

1. Nanaimo District
2. Howe Sound
3. Belmont
4. G.P. Vanier
5. Timbrline

GI's Playoff Picks

DOUBLE A

TOP HALF DRAW

QUADRANT A

West 1 John Barsby vs. Interior 3 Clarence Fulton: The Dawgs are loaded for bear and can run or pass with equal effectiveness. The Dawg D has become exceptional over the course of the year. Fulton is a bunch of tough-nut gamers who want the challenge and competition. Kudos to this crew!

GI's Pick: John Barsby by 21

East 2 Abbotsford vs. West 3 Handsworth: This is going to be a very, very physical game. Handsworth has all the playoff exprience here and ought to eke out a victory if they can get their counter game rolling.

GI's Pick: Royals by 3

QUADRANT B
South 1 Seaquam vs. East 4 Rick Hansen: Seaquam's downhill running game and size up front will enable them to have a big day on the scoreboard against under-sized Rick Hansen. The points will pile up, particularly in the second half.

GI's Pick: Seaquam by 24

Okanagan 1 Vernon vs. Northern 1 Nechako Valley: The North is getting better each year. They have not caught up to the Interior yet and this will be on display for the entire province. Vernon is bigger and faster. Good math to have on your side come game-day.

GI's Pick: Vernon by 21

BOTTOM HALF DRAW

QUADRANT C
West 2 Ballenas vs. South 3 Holy Cross: Love this match-up. Can Ballenas stop the HC running game? Can HC defend one of the three most balanced run-pass attacks in BC? Special teams, wow, this is going to be big.

GI's Pick: Ballenas by 10

South 2 Hugh Boyd vs. East 3 Robert Bateman: These two squads played one another earlier this year. A healthy Bateman won that game. Weeks have passed and Boyd seems to be the team that has improved. The Trojans have a positive history in big games as a staff as well.

GI's Pick: Hugh Boyd by 8

QUADRANT D

East 1 Mission vs. Northern 2 Duchess Park: Great season Dutchess Park. Way to go yellow and black! It ends this weekend however. Is there a match-up that is not hugely in Mission's favour?

GI's Pick: Mission by 50...conservatively.

Interior 2 Kalamalka vs. West 4 South Delta: South Delta is simply bigger, stronger and more battle tested. Kalmalka has a chance if they can get up early and win the turnover battle. Tall order.

GI's Pick: South Delta by 21

Tier 2 Varsity Playoffs

Side A

#1 NDSS vs #4 Moscrop:

The Islanders will steamroll their opponents on their home field in front of a packed and enthusiastic house. Moscrop can make a go of it if they get firing on offense and get a couple timely turnovers. Big "Ifs".

GI's Pick: Nanaimo District by 34

#2 Timberline vs #3 Vanier:

Perhaps the game of the Tier 2 week. Timberline has a more dynamic offense, but Vanier has perhaps the best back in the league. Home field goes to the Wolves. So this one is going to be about defense and the kicking-game.

GI's Pick: Timberline by 2

Side B

#1 Belmont vs #4 EJ Milne:

Milne plays Belmont tough every time. I think the Wolverines are a bit banged-up heading into this one and Belmont is playing some darn good ball at this point in the season. The Bulldogs ought to stop the run here and then it becomes a very one dimensional game for Milne. Not good.

GI's Pick: Belmont by 18

#2 Howe Sound vs #3 Frank Hurt:

Frank Hurt cannot play the physical game that is going to be required to tangle with the Sounders. Look for big second half scores for HS. Hurt, champs no more.

GI's Pick: Howe Sound by 31

ALL LOVE!

2011-11-07T22:10:00.000-08:00

Fun to get back in the Ol'Hood!

GI's Picks Week Nine

2011-10-31T14:47:00.000-07:00

Week 9 2011

Well, here we are folks at the end of the regular season of play. Sure did go by quick! This weekend sees multiple games that will determine first and second place seeding into the playoff tourney. For some seniors, this will be the last game of HS football. Make it your best fellas!

GI's Week Nine AA Varsity Top Five

1. Mission
2. John Barsby
3. Ballenas
4. Abbottsford Collegiate
5. Holy Cross

GI's Week 9 Tier 2 Varsity Top Five

1. Nanaimo District
2. Howe Sound
3. Belmont
4. G.P. Vanier
5. Edward Milne

Gridiron's Picks

Thursday, 3 November

Hugh Boyd @ Handsworth: Hugh Boyd and Handsworth are playing their best football of the year right now. Both Squads are coming off of big, emotional wins and though this game is exhibition, it will speak a lot to momentum headed into the post-season. Handsworth wins this match-up in the passing game, Boyd on the ground. The weather man may be a prominent figure headed into Thursday.    Defensively, this is a toss-up. Special teams are going to have a big say overall.

GI's Pick: Handsworth by 2

Friday, 4 November, 2011

Abbottsford Collegiate @ Mission: Divisional title on the line. In a short period of time, Abbey has come to rule the local roost in their town and now they are travelling to play The King of the Fraser Valley in the Mission Roadrunners. Abbey is very hard hitting and they have been improving week-to-week all year long. Mission has not broken a sweat against any AA competition this year. Abbey may make em sweat a bit, but not for long. Mission has too many offensive weapons and will clearly and effectively dominate the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball.

GI's Pick: Mission by 36

Ballenas @ Windsor: The Whalers are rolling into North Vancouver coming off of a bye and in playoff form. Windsor is going to play tough for awhile, but cannot run with the Whaler receiving corps. This one does not come down to coaching as both squads are very well tutored, but rather it comes down to roster maturity and the Whalers hold a decisive edge in that category.

GI's Pick: Whalers by 16

Rick Hansen @ Robert Bateman: A few weeks back I'd say Bateman in a landslide. Consecutive physical maulings of the Wolves by Abbottsford and Mission have brought the once surging Bateman squad crashing back to earth. Rick Hansen has a real shot to take this one as the Bateman offense is basically starting from scratch with injuries and illness having taken a toll. Rick Hansen will execute better on offense as a result and a sound defensive effort may give em the margin to steal this one/

GI's Pick: Hansen by 2

Nanaimo District (Tier 2) @ Frank Hurt (Tier 2): Frank Hurt has put up some sereious points in a few of their games this year. Nanaimo District up until last weekend has been flat-out dominant. These two squads played a close game in Nanaimo last September with the Hornets eventually emerging triumphant; now the Islanders are on the road with some payback on their minds. I think the Islanders have demonstrated themselves to be better in all three phases of the game this year. I also think they play a way more physical brand of ball.

GI's Pick: Islanders by 31

Eric Hamber (Tier 2) @ Moscrop (Tier 2): Moscrop, when its players and coaches feel confident about their opponent, can really score points in a hurry. They are entering this game feeling brash and good about who they will be matching up against. Hamber is still on a big learning curve.

GI's Pick: Panthers by ground and air win by 30

Belmont (Tier 2) @ Mark Isfeld (Tier 2): If Isfeld can get the bodies to play this weekend, they will have a tough game ahead of them. Belmont is on a win streak and getting healthier with each passing day.

GI's Pick: Belmont by 30 plus.

Saturday, 5 November

Clarence Fulton @ Kalmalka: Game for divisional title. Fulton has been on a tear late in the season. A young but fast Kalmalka found a way to win last weekend. I think Fulton is more complete on both sides of the ball.

GI's Pick: Fulton by 8

Norkam @ Mt. Baker: This is a good way for Norkam to wrap-up its season. Mt. Baker gets to finish at home which is also good for them. Norkam is quite simply, further along as a program and group of athletes.

GI's Pick: Norkam by 27

Langley @ Seaquam: Seaquam has clearly been the better team this year if one looks at wins and losses vs common opponents. In a smallish division, this counts for very little as a Langley victory would tip the whole division on its ear. If Langley can get all over Seaquam's running game and put a couple scores on the board, they may have a shot this Saturday. High school athletes are full of surprises and there is a reason we play these games.

GI's Pick: Seaquam by 22

John Barsby @ South Delta: Both teams have a stake in a positive outcome in this game for entirely different reasons. A South Delta win would bring a tie breaking pts. for and against formula to the Western 3 and 4 playoff berth.  Interesting indeed. Barsby, well, they want to play this one as hard as any this season. It ought to be a good game to watch. South Delta has been very balanced offensivley this year and they are trick play masters. Barsby likewise, has had a balanced attack from a different offensive set entirely. Defensively, both squads have superb run pursuit and I really like the SD cover schemes. The Sundevils are tough at home and would love to add this big notch to their belts.

GI's Pick: Barsby by a close 10

Okanagen Mission @ Vernon: Huge game for Vernon with a 1st place seed on the line. Likewise for OKM, an upset would propel them to a 4th place finish divisionally and the satisfaction that they derailed a divisional heavyweight. I don't think the Panthers are going to let it happen though. Too big, too fast, too many players for their opponents.

GI's Pick: Vernon by 16

Valleyview @ South Kamloops: Perhaps the hottest team in the Interior, SKS can only wonder what may have been this year if they had been able to roll in September. The Titans will finish strong in this local rivalry game and will hang-up their hats with another W under their belts.

GI's Pick: Titans by 16

Gulf Islands @ G.P. Vanier: The Saltspring scrappers are travelling North to tangle with a goliath school in Vanier. They all oughta get medals of valor for making the trip. We need B-8 or 9 in this province. I volunteer to help set it up.

GI's Pick: Vanier by double digits

Timberline @ Edward Milne: This could go either way, especially if Timberline trys to get "style points" on offense. Ugly touchdowns are worth just as much as pretty ones guys. This game has become a bit of a rivalry and I believe the 2011 edition will be no exception. Timberline rolls in with a deeper bench and a size advantage. Milne is at home and will be giving no quarter themselves. I think if the Wolverines are patient offensively and get some big heat on the Timberline QB they are in this one. Conversely, if the Timberline bench doesn't roll in more jacked than their players, they will do just fine. Kinda wish I could watch this one.

GI's Pick:  Timberline by 8

Howe Sound @ Argyle: Kudos to Howe Sound last weekend rolling into Nanaimo and giving the Islanders all that they could handle. Shorter trip this time and the opponent did not fare so well last time they stood in front of a Double-Wing.

GI's Pick: Sounders by 38

Gridiron's Picks Week 8

2011-10-24T14:36:00.000-07:00

Gridiron's Week 8 AA Varsity Top Five

1. Mission
2. John Barsby
3. Seaquam
4. Ballenas
5. Abbottsford Collegiate

Gridiron's Week 8 Tier 2 Varsity Top Five

1. Nanaimo District
2. Howe Sound
3. Belmont
4. Edward Milne
5. Timberline

Thursday, 27 October

Moscrop (Tier 2) @ Argyle (Tier 2):

Friday, 28 October, 2011

Mt. Baker @ Vernon: Got to give this one to the Panthers coming angry off of a tough loss to South Kamloops. Beyond sheer emotion and the will to rebound, Vernon has more veteren depth than their Mt. Baker foes.

GI's Pick: Vernon by 38

Windsor @ John Barsby: Windsor is executing as good as anyone in the league. Barsby, a more mature team in terms of depth and veteren roster had better not take the Dukes for granted come Friday. Look for a big effort on behalf of the Dukes to slow down the chainsaw Dawg offense. "The Box" is going to be a very crowded piece of real-estate for this tilt. Windsor will also go to the air early and often on offense. Turnovers and an opportunistic kicking game could not be bigger for the Dukes. Barsby has to play smart ball on every down to take care of its week 8 business.

GI's Pick: Barsby by 18

South Delta @ Handsworth: Huge game for both teams in terms of playoff seeding coming out of divisional play in a couple weeks. South Delta had a big team performance vs Windsor last week and Handsworth though they came up short, mounted a furious near comeback from a 21 pt. deficit vs Ballenas. The Royals always play South Delta very good and they are on home turf to boot. South Delta however, is a very complete team and they match-up very well across the board athletically with their North Van. foes. Look for the squad who can move the ball on the ground to prevail in this contest.

GI's Pick: South Delta by 10

South Kamloops @ Okanagen Mission: South Kamloops is making a late season run at the divisional title and OKM is their next obstacle to overcome. Momentum is a big factor here and the Titans have a lot of it.

GI's Pick: Titans by 12

Seaquam @ Hugh Boyd: The East division is proving to be a rough one for prognosticators in 2011. Hugh Boyd is at the headwaters of this cascade of uncertainty as one never really knows which group of Trojans will show up to play on a give Friday afternoon. One thing is for certain, when these guys are "on" they can play ball with pretty much anyone. Seaquam plays for keeps in the big games and if they get their big back running downhill the men of Troy are in trouble.

GI's Pick: Seaquam by 17

Mission @ Robert Bateman: Bateman has wound-up playing its two toughest divisional games in a four day span. This is often a very good thing when you emerge from the 1st relatively healthy. There is not a whole lot to insert and bango, you pick-up where you left off. I have been anxiously awaiting this tilt since the day the schedule came out for 2011. Mission is the big dog in the Valley and the one of the squads that really looks to be able to unseat them any time soon is Bateman. The JV's are neck and neck and the Varsity aren't far off of the mark. All year long, the Mission defense has been very impressive. Bateman isn't going to do anything offensively but come right after em. This is goign to be an honest game. One side or the other is going to break in the second half. Offensively, Mission has to be able to finesse the ball to compliment their powerful running game. If Bateman cannot cover the pass, doom awaits them. If they can can turn this into a slugging match, they have a chance. The weather report calls for rain...

GI's Pick: Mission by 21

Abbottsford Collegiate @ Pitt Meadows: Abbey is flat-out tougher on defense than their hosts this weekend. The Panther offense is a reflection of their defensive demeanor. The "tough" math does not add up very well for Pitt. One thing the Marauders do have going for them is that Abbey is playing this game a very short four days after a physical contest vs Bateman. The momentum of the Panther's big win over rival Bateman should stand them in good stead!

GI's Pick: Abbey by 23

Holy Cross @ Rick Hansen: I like this match-up a lot. The Hurricanes showed up to play some very solid football last week vs Pitt and they have that to build on as they host HC. The Crusaders took it on the chin vs divisional top dog Seaquam and are looking to regain some of the swagger they had entering that tilt. The match-ups are very equal between these groups with an edge going to the HC offensive line and smashmouth running game.

GI's Pick: Crusaders by 8

Saturday, 29 October

Valleyview @ Kalamalka: Kalmalka rolls into this one with the better team speed. All other things even, the Lakers should take this one.

GI's Pick: Lakers by 10

Gulf Islands (Tier 2) @ Belmont (Tier 2): Belmont is getting healthy and has won consecutive big games. Gulf Islands is far better suited roster wise to 9 man football where they would be fearsome. Belmont matches up very well in every phase of the game. They are on home turf as well.

GI's Pick: Belmont by 36

Howe Sound (Tier 2) @ Nanaimo District (Tier 2): Here it is folks, the game that decides first place coming off of the mainland division in Tier 2. Nanaimo district has been essentially mercy ruling teams by half-time all year and now they may have a game on their hands, if not a legitimate challenge. Howe Sound has been playing solid ball and has really earned some respect around the league. Nanaimo District has been Moby Dick in the Tier 2 Goldfish Bowl. This game will be physical and possibly close at first, but then the Islanders will sniff out weakness and pounce. Both teams run the double-wing, Nanaimo District knows how to run the double-wing. The Islander Defense aka Gang-Green is a wrecking crew as well. In the end, the debris field that was once the Sounders will be scattered from end-zone to parking lot.

GI's Pick: Islanders by 38

Edward Milne (Tier 2) @ GP Vanier (Tier 2): This could very well be the closest game played at any level during the weekend. Both of these teams are playing their best ball of the season and they have played common opponents with very similar outcomes. Vanier has a definitive edge in size and overall team speed. Milne does a better job of identifying and exploiting opponent defensive flaws. What could emerge here is a barnburner on the scoreboard that resolves itself in the last minutes of the game. One thing in Vanier's favor and I believe the tipping point, the Towhees are at home.

GI's Pick: Towhees by 6

Eric Hamber (Tier 2) @ Frank Hurt (Tier 2): The Hornets will throw and counter their way to victory in front of their home crowd this Saturday. Hamber has gotten better this year for sure, but still a ways to go fellas.

GI's Pick: Hornets by 11

Timberline (Tier 2) @ Mark Isfeld (Tier 2): Timberline got an abrubt reality check vs a surging Belmont crew at home last weekend. Now the Wolves are on the road and looking to feast. Isfeld is going to be outmatched by Timberlines offensive assault and the Ice just don't seem to have the game breakers offensively to match their guests score for score across four quarters.

GI's Pick: Wolves by 22

Gridiron's Week Seven Picks

2011-10-16T09:44:00.000-07:00

Week Seven

Dawgs, Roadrunners, Whalers SeaHawks, Wolves continue to roll!

GI's AA Varsity Top Five

1. Mission
2. John Barsby
3. Seaquam
4. Robert Bateman
5. Ballenas

GI's Tier 2 Varsity Top Five

1. Nanaimo District
2. Timberline
3. Howe Sound
4. Belmont
5. Edward Milne

GI's Week Seven Picks

Friday, 21 October

Pitt Meadows @ Rick Hansen: This is a playoff game for both teams. Pitt has been playing very tough competition of late and their game has to be on the elevated side assuming they are healthy. Hansen is quickly coming to the realization that Abbey and Bateman are now mature programs who are forcefully asserting their place in the Valley pecking order. This game is pivotal for reasons that extend past playoff viability. I think the Hansen crew will be very well prepared for this tilt and they can run the ball better. Team speed to Pitt.

GI's Pick: Hurricanes by 1

Handsworth @ Ballenas: The Whalers are coming off of consecutive big games and are playing very good football at this juncture of the season. The Royals are playing some very tough ball of their own as well. I like the Handsworth defensive line vs the Whaler offensive line but the Whalers match-up way better in the secondary and perimeter. The key to this contest will be whether or not the Whalers can make short work of the Royal rushing attack. If they accomplish this, I like em to win. Kicking game could not be bigger. There are some great opportunities for Ballenas here as well.

GI's Pick: Whalers by 14

Hugh Boyd @ Langley: This is a perfect game for the Trojans to rebound from last weekend's heartbreak. Boyd can run the ball and Langley just doesn't have the jam to do anything about it. Look for a big score.

GI's Pick: Trojans by 24

Robert Bateman @ Abbottsford Collegiate: Best game of the week right here. Bateman is making huge waves and a big win for them will create a Tsunami of interest headed into their game vs Mission on the 28th. These programs are on the rise and the collission is going to be very physical. I like Bateman in this game because of their offensive simplicity. They do what they do and are relentless in their approach. There are a few more "explosive" athletes in the black and green uniforms as well. It will be a very tough game, but the outcome will never be in doubt.

GI's Pick: Bateman by 16

Clarence Fulton @ Okanagen Mission: Two squads headed in the right direction at mid-season. I like Fulton as their schedule has been more challenging to date. The Maroons are going to run the ball better and that is the key to Interior success year in and year out.

GI's Pick: Maroons by 8

Vernon @ South Kamloops: Vernon has emerged as the class of the Interior in 2011. The Panthers have all the offensive and defensive tools to dominate this contest. SKS is above middle in the mix this year but not top rail.

GI's Pick: Vernon by 16

Edward Milne (Tier 2) @ Gulf Islands (Tier 2): Milne is a solid all around squad with plenty of depth. The Milne roster is also hardened by a full season of play. Gulf Islands is scrappy, but they have all the chance of winning this one as a sunfish does of snapping 15 lb test line.

GI's Pick: Milne by 26

Nanaimo District (Tier 2) @ Eric Hamber (Tier 2): Congrats Hamber on your victory this past weekend. Bring plenty of ice to this game. Nanaimo District is a juggernaut in 2011 and is playing for keeps. A Hamber score can be considered wild success. The home team will not be celebrating much at game's end.

GI's Pick: Nanaimo District by 46

G.P. Vanier (Tier 2) @ Mark Isfeld (Tier 2): The Comox Valley Civil War. This has been a one sided affair over the years with Vanier having their way with little bro Isfeld. I think the Towhees are more than hungry for a W coming off of consecutive narrow losses to divisional opponents. If Isfeld is healthy they can keep things close for awhile.

GI's Pick: G.P. Vanier by 30

Saturday, 22 October

Mt. Baker @ Valleyview: Valleyview gets in the win column with this one. The Vikings are simply better at every facet of the game in this match-up.

GI's Pick: Valleyview by 24

Windsor @ South Delta: This game will be one of the most interesting first halves of the weekend. Windsor is executing as good as anyone in the province at any level of play right now. Problem for them is that they are using .22 calibre ammo and their opponents are showing up with the .50 variety. The Dukes are playing great football, they are just outgunned when it comes to some key athletic match-ups. South Delta has a very impressive defensive line and linebacking crew. Their cover one is very tight. Offensively the Sundevils trap very well and do a great job protecting the passer from multiple spread looks. Windsor's defense plays solid zone and they fly to the football. I think that the running game will be all important on Saturday.

GI's Pick: Upset alert...Windsor by 1

Holy Cross @ Seaquam: HC is on a win streak and has been making hay with their running game. Week to week these guys have surely gotten better. Seaquam loves to rumble inside the box. These guys are tough and "old school" when it comes to their playing mentality. Both defenses are a reflection of their offenses. Seaquam can pass a bit better than their foes this Saturday. Their defense can cover the pass better too.

GI's Pick: Seaquam by 12

Mission @ Lakeside (WA): I took a good look at the Lakeside Lions and I think they bit off way more than they can chew by scheduling Mission. The Roadrunners are bigger and faster. They also have a skill set to match their impressive physicality.

GI's Pick: Mission by 17

Argyle (Tier 2) @ Frank Hurt (Tier 2): Frank Hurt has shown signs of life this season. Argyle is going through new team blues so to speak. Argyle has better athletes than Hurt. Hurt has better football players.

GI's Pick: Hornets by 17

Moscrop (Tier 2) @ Howe Sound (Tier 2): Two double-wing teams in a row for Moscrop. Ever seen one of those racoons who didn't get across the highway fast enough? Ever seen one of those same racoons that has been run over for half a week? You get the picture of what things will look like Sunday morning.

GI's Pick: Howe Sound by 23

Belmont (Tier 2) @ Timberline (Tier 2): This is the game for first place in the Island division. These two squads have played epic contests in years past and Saturday's tilt will be no different. The Wolves will show up to the dance with the more balanced offense, but Belmont plays a better brand of D. If the Bulldogs are healthy this is going to be a classic. Timberline is at home and this could be the difference all things considered.

GI's Pick: Timberline by 2

Gridiron's Week 6 Picks

2011-10-10T15:51:00.000-07:00

Happy Thanksgiving All!

GI's AA Varsity Top Five

1. Mission
2. John Barsby
3. Handsworth
4. Ballenas
5. Robert Bateman

GI's Tier 2 Varsity Top Five

1. Nanaimo District
2. Timberline
3. EJ Milne
4. Howe Sound
5. Belmont

GI's Week 6 Picks

Thursday, 13 October

Correlieu @ College Heights: College Heights has been playing better football than the Clansmen of Quesnel. Look for the Cougars to put together a stubborn defensive performance and grind away on the ground en route to victory this Thursday.

GI's Pick: College Heights by 18

Friday, 14 October

Rick Hansen @ Mission: Mission, traditionally known for its prolific and entertaining offense is making a huge defensive statement this year. There is no reason why they cannot blank middleweight and erstwhile divisional foe Rick Hansen on Friday afternoon. Hansen is totally outgunned in this one and will seek to find some small victories to carry forward into the rest of the season.

GI's Pick: Mission by 38

Abbottsford Collegiate @ Langley: Langeley is in for a tough one in this exhibition tilt vs the surging Panthers. Abbottsford is positioning itself to challenge for the second seed out of their division. This is another momentum building game for the red and black.

GI's Pick: Abbey by 24

John Barsby @ Handsworth: Anyone smell an ambush? Handsworth usually plays their games on the artificial turf at a local field. This game is on campus at 2 PM. Perfect timing and location for a rematch against last year's Subway Bowl opponent John Barsby. This game comes down to defense plain and simple. Both squads can move the ball very effectively and a tight game on the scoreboard and some great special teams will likely be the tale of the tape. Home dirt is surely in favor of the Royals. Barsby is on a roll.

GI's Pick: Barsby by 10

Prince George @ Kelly Road: The Polars and Roadrunners, the two biggest schools in the district lock horns this weekend in a game that may very well decide the number 3 seed in the playoffs. Kelley Road has been coming on strong as of late and I think they will win a squeaker.

GI's Pick: Roadrunners by 2

Dutchess Park @ Nechako Valley: Red hot Dutchess Park is going to have to work for every point they can get on the board versus the division leading Vikings. The Condors have a very balanced attack and are playing great defense. This is the third game for them in two weeks and health could factor. If the Condors enter the game healthy I like em because they have been playing tougher competition of late and their game will reflect that pace from the outset.

GI's Pick: Condors by 3

Robert Bateman @ Pitt Meadows: Bateman is healthy and is on a roll. Pitt Meadows had better spend a lot of time working on run defense headed into this game. If the Marauders can get eight in the box and lock-up successfully in man coverage they may have a shot. Hec, nine in the box-Cover 2 isn't a bad idea either. Bateman has not proved to anyone that they can throw the ball consistently. They havn't had to do so either. You know what, maybe a gentlemen's agreement to completely suspend Batemen's passing game for the contest is in order. Eleven in the box it is. Still won't work.

GI's Pick: Bateman by 30

Mark Isfeld (Tier 2) @ Gulf Islands (Tier 2): Gulf Islands will post their first victory of the season on Friday vs the Ice. These guys are scrappers and they have some edge speed their opponents lack.

GI's Pick: Gulf Islands by 14

Edward Milne (Tier 2) @ Belmont (Tier 2): Now here is a bit of a rivalry game on the South Island. Milne has always been Belmont's pesky little brother on the field. I think lil bro has grown up this year. I like the balanced Milne attack and their team discipline in this game. I am not convinced Belmont has recovered from their week two and three games up Island.

GI's Pick: Milne by 10

Mocrop (Tier 2) @ Nanaimo (Tier 2): Moscrop has proven they can score points by the bushell in games where their squad's talent pool is evenly matched. Nanaimo District is big, nasty and has the complete package this year. Defensively they love to brawl with opponents, their kicking game is fantastic and their offense has not faltered all year. Moscrop is going to find out how tough they are or are not on Friday.

GI's Pick: Nanaimo District AKA Mean Green by 36

Argyle (Tier 2) @ Eric Hamber (Tier 2): Hey Pipers, get ready to celebrate Friday Night. You have more size, speed and talent at every position. Put it all together and you will mark a historic win for yourselves.

GI's Pick: Argyle by 28

Saturday, 15 October

Okanagen Mission @ Mt. Baker: Long trip for the Huskies. Long trip, and a quality road win.

GI's Pick: OKM by 34

Vernon @ Kalmalka: One of the best games of the weekend will be played here. The Panthers will need to be very efficient on offense and will have to create some turnovers defensively to steal this one away from the Lakers who have a faster roster. This comes down to kicking game and turnovers.

GI's Pick: Kalmalka by 4

South Delta @ Ballenas: Both of these teams play some great offense and throw the ball exceptionally well. Ballenas can run the ball quite effectively to compliment their passing game. Only Mission boasts a similar combination to what the Whalers possess on offense. South Delta's defensive line is pretty darn good and the Whaler's are going to be challenged mightily to block it up for the provinces top quarterback. Special teams are certainly going to have a say as well on Saturday.

GI's Pick: Whalers by 6

Frank Hurt (Tier 2) @ Howe Sound (Tier 2): Frank Hurt exploded for record points in an overtime victory this past weekend. Howe Sound won't be as accomodating defensively as the Moscrop Panthers were. The Howe Sound running game is starting to mature nicely and will present Frank Hurt with a real gut check in terms of defensive toughness. The Hornets are not going to like what they find.
GI's Pick: Howe Sound by 14

G.P. Vanier (Tier 2) @ Timberline (Tier 2): A budding rivalry up on the North End of the Island. Timberline's offense has yet to face a serious defense to challenge its multi-faceted attack. Vanier has proven it doesn't stand up well to anything but the most vanilla offensive assault. The Wolves will give them a Baskin Robbins assortment of offensive flavors and tweaks.

GI's Pick: Timberline by 26

Hugh Boyd @ Holy Cross: There really is no such thing as divisional play in The South this year but rather a bit of a seeding tournament for the playoff dance. The Trojans have had a real see-saw season to date playing great ball and then surrendering games that seemingly should have been closer or even winnable at first glance. Well, this one is for real and it counts big time. The Trojans always prepare exceptionally well for big games and this will be no different. HC has found its offensive feet as well and are on a bit of a roll. This one will be very close.
GI's Pick: Hugh Boyd by 2

South Kamloops @ Clarence Fulton: SKS, the football version of Lazarus travels to play the Maroons. Fulton is getting better and I have my doubts as to the ability of the Titans to knock off traditional Interior powers this year.
GI's Pick: Fulton by 11

Windsor @ Seaquam: Windsor is playing very, very good football considering it is rolling with a mixed JV/Varsity roster. The Dukes are executing in all phases of their game and the defense is really hustling to the ball on every play. Seaquam may enter this game without their star running back Lego. The absence of the punishing back may have been a contributor to the narrow loss against South Delta this past weekend. In any event, with our without their big back, Seaquam has a big, physical and importantly, mature roster that will host the Dukes on home dirt. Unless there is an obscene amount of turnovers in the Dukes favor, this game goes to Seaquam who ought to be snowplowing their North Van guests up and down the field.

GI's Pick: Seaquam by 18

GI's Week Five Picks

2011-10-02T10:44:00.000-07:00

WEEK FIVE

In some respects, it has felt like one of the longest of Septembers in 2011. October is now here and so is meaningfull league play to go with it! Everything counts now and this month willl be the one where a lot of playoff fates are determined. We begin with a bang with the 11th annual Border Battle on The Island as the surging Ballenas Whalers pay a visit to arch-rival John Barsby. Beyond this classic is going to be a slate of hard fought games each with big implications down the road. Lets get it on!

A special note to this blog's readers: This thing only gets better with your help. GI needs photo's, game recaps, and you-tube video hi-lites. E-mail me when you get yours up and it will get included. The Border Battle is getting a lot of attention this week and we can do this for all the big games with your help. Send in what you've got as it surely helps!! Lets make the big time where we are!!

Week 4 Wrap-Up

Mission, Barsby, Seaquam, Bateman, Ballenas and Dutchess Park had big wins this past weekend and Vernon formally ended their little brother status with a historic victory over the much loathed Maroons of Fulton. In Tier 2 Nanaimo District KO's their opponent scoring 42 pts and ending the game early in the second quarter while Timberline gave the scoreboard a stress test to remember vs the visiting Frank Hurt Hornets. These two are on a collission course for the title game unless someone can get in their way.

AA Varsity Week Five Top Five

The Whalers Have Been Ripping It Up In 2011!

1. Mission Roadrunners
2. John Barsby Bulldogs
3. Seaquam SeaHawks
4. Handsworth Royals
5. Ballenas Whalers

Tier 2 Varsity Week Five Top Five

Mean Green Lays The Smack-Down Friday Afternoon!

1. Nanaimo District Islanders
2. Timberline Wolves
3. Howe Sound Sounders
4. EJ Milne Wolverines
5. Belmont Bulldogs

Timberline Juggernaut Kicks In To High Gear Saturday!

GI's Week Five Picks

Tuesday, 4 October

Dutchess Park @ PGSS: Coming off of last this past weekend's upset of Nechako Valley the Condors now have the inside track to the top seed coming out of El Norte. PGSS presents a hec of a big speed bump along the way but this crew is obviously on fire. The Condors are playing solid defense and are opportunistic on the offensive side of the ball. The gold and black will be a little too much for the big school up the road.

GI's Pick: Condors by 10

Friday, 7 October

Ballenas @ John Barsby: The eleventh annual Border Battle will kick-off "In The Cage" at John Barsby Friday afternoon at 1:46 PM. These arch rivals are playing great football right now with Ballenas being a failed 2pt. conversion vs AAA Centennial away from a perfect pre-season record. The dynamic Whaler offense will run up against a Barsby defensive crew that has allowed eight points in four games. This will be a true test for both units! Defensively the Whalers have their hands full with the Dawg onslaught, but the Blue and Grey have a history of defending the Barsby Double Wing exceptionally well. The kicking game is going to be absolutely huge and the Whalers can kick-off short or long with pin-point accuracy. This game will be a classic that also will have immediate playoff ramifications. Take nothing for granted here!!

GI's Pick: Barsby by 6

Past Border Battle's

Whalers Win This One

Barsby Wins This One

Whalers Week 3 2011

Whalers Week 4

Barsby Week 2 2011

Border Battle 2011 It's Going To Be Epic!

Mark Isfeld (Tier 2) @ Edward Milne(Tier 2): Both of these teams travelled to Nanaimo to play NDSS and Barsby respectively. Milne survived intact, Isfeld did not. Observing both games, it is clear that Milne has it together on both sides of the ball and has better athletes. Nuff said.

GI's Pick: Milne by 34

Argyle (Tier 2) @ Nanaimo District (Tier 2): Well Argyle, you are surely going to find out just how tough you guys are when you come a calling to the Mean Green this Friday. Strap on your headgear because this one is going to be physical. The Islanders are the complete package with perhaps the best kicking-game at any varsity level in BC. This game will be played on a short field and the Islander offensive juggernaut will be chewing its way through the opposing defense early and often. New team blues Argyle, new team blues.

GI's Pick: Islanders by 40

Frank Hurt (Tier 2) @ Moscrop(Tier 2): Frank Hurt got totally shelled by Air-Wolf this past weekend and now travells a much shorter distance to play another pass oriented offense. This game will be far closer than the Timberline affair and will be a real gut-check for the Hornets in terms of their ability to regroup and have a focused week of practice. If not, they are on their last legs. It's character time boys.

GI's Pick: Moscrop by 17

G.P. Vanier (Tier 2)  @ Belmont(Tier 2): This will be a close game and playoff seeding is definitely on the line here. Belmont will enter the game having had a full two weeks to lick its wounds and refocus on the league play at hand. Vanier has a huge itch to get a W for the program and some team confidence to go along with it.    Belmont can throw the ball quite well and the Towhees can pound it when they get in the groove. This game is a tough one to call as it is tough to say if the Belmont crew will have its full roster at hand playing up to a good share of its potential. I have to go with Belmont as I think they adjust better to what their opponent gives them on either side of the ball than does their foes.

GI's Pick: Belmont by 6

Holy Cross @ Langley: HC weathered the gauntlet of tough match-ups weeks 1-3 and was rewarded with a hard-fought victory against a tough Abbottsford squad. This game will again emerge as a W for the Crusaders and by a much bigger point spread than last week. This crew is getting better with each game played and will hang some big points up on the board as their offense gets in synch. Langley is in tough in this one.

GI's Pick: Holy Cross by 24

Abbottsford Collegiate @ Rick Hansen: This will be a very good game to watch as these divisional rivals contest the inside track for one of the lower playoff seeds in the valley. Both squads are coming off of losses this past weekend with Hansen by far playing the tougher opponent. Look for the run game to be the decisive factor in this contest. Abbey spreads it out and throws very well, Hansen is a lot more balanced and dynamic on offense. I really like the physicality of the Panthers so this could boil down to who has legs in the late quarters.

GI's Pick: Hansen by 1

Handsworth @ Windsor: Never mind the rosters, hec, the chess match between two of the all time AA coaching greats is going to be fun to watch.  All things equal, this game would be way too close to call, especially with each team coming off of two weeks preparation for the other. All things this year are not equal however as Windsor rolls on the field with a blended JV/Varsity Crew and Handsworth a seasoned group of Varsity players. Though he is very, very good, there just are not enough tricks and tweaks in Coach Schuman's playbook to handle the physical onslaught that Handsworth will bring at The Dukes. There may be some moral victories for the Green and Gold, but not on the scoreboard

GI's Pick: Handsworth by 26

Kalamalka @ Okanagen Mission: Big, big game in the Interior! Kalmalka has the athletes to win this one and will pull away rapidly in the mid-second quarter. OKM is going to have to slow this game down any way it can, particularly by using some ball control, clock eating offense and a few trick plays to get on the board. The kicking game will be big and turnovers even bigger.

GI's Pick: Kalamalka y 20

Vernon @ NorKam: Vernon's big boys are on the road to play the Saints at home. The Panthers are surely on an up year and they won't break stride en route to taking another step closer to the playoffs.

GI's Pick: Vernon by 23

Nechako Valley @ Correlieu: The Vikings may have been reading their own press clippings last weekend or Dutchess Park is really that good. In either case, it is Correlieu's bad luck that they are Vanderhoof's rebound game on the 2011 schedule. It won't be a nice day in Quesnel.

GI's Pick: Nechako Valley by 34

Kelley Road @ College Heights: Two teams that bookend the city of Prince George Geographically. Two teams headed in different directions.   Kelley Road is getting itself on a playoff trajectory. College Heights is working its way through a tough, but developmentally important year.

GI's Pick: Roadrunners by 18

Clarence Fulton @ Valleyview: This is going to be a very closely matched slugfest up in Kamloops. I thing the perimeter running game will be the story here. Fulton has one and Valleyview doesn't. Can the Vikings keep their edge and turn this game into a slobber-knocker between the tackles? Who's defense is going to get lazy and stunned by PAP? Kicking game will be huge. A consistent short field for one team's offense will be hard for its opponent to surmount.

GI's Pick: Fulton by 10

Mission @ Pitt Meadows: Two spread offenses, two pistol alignments, two vastly different rosters in terms of depth, size and speed. Mt. Douglas was a tough game to play (kudos for playing it!), this game is going to be a lot worse for Pitt.

GI's Pick: Mission by 48

Saturday, 8 October

South Kamloops @ Mt. Baker: SKS is feeling its oats. Baker is at the bottom of a long uphill slope towards being competitive. SKS will run to daylight all day long.

GI's Pick: Titans by 40

Sexmith (Alberta) @ Dutchess Park: Sexmith is a very accomplished Alberta Football Program and the Condors are in what I would term as early football adolescence. This will be a great growing game for Dutchess Park and it is very good to see the nexus of BC and Alberta programs on the field. This said, the Sabres are going to dice up some bird in a game that ironically, is on Thanksgiving weekend.

GI's Pick: Sabres by 36

South Delta @ Seaquam: I like this game. Similar rosters in terms of size and speed. South Delta throws the ball very, very well and Seaquam likes to ground and pound. If there is wind and rain, it could be a long afternoon for SD. Fair conditions and we have a game on our hands. Overall, Seaquam is really playing good ball these days and they will surely bring their best to this home game.

GI's Pick: Seaquam by 16

Howe Sound (Tier 2)  @ Eric Hamber (Tier 2): Howe Sound has really been slugging it out with folks these past four weeks and I believe them to be my pick as the number two playoff seed coming off the mainland when the playoff dance begins in earnest. Hamber is learning the game. It is going to be a tough afternoon for them.

GI's Pick: Howe Sound by 40

Gulf Islands(Tier 2)  @ Timberline (Tier 2): Gulf Islands has yet to play a game in 2011. Timberline has played four and is scoring points by the bushell. Gulf Islands is a perfect study in why we should have eight or nine man football in BC. They would be a powerhouse in that game. Not this one.

GI's Pick: Timberline wraps the scoreboard and there is still 40 pts to zero on it.

Air Wolf ...These Guys Warm-Up By Throwing a Bucket of House Flies on the Field and Catching Them All!

GI's Week Four Picks

2011-09-25T09:42:00.000-07:00

Week Three Wrap-Up

This past week saw Mission again assert itself as one of the dominant forces in AA Ball; Handsworth played superb in a narrow loss to San Fransico's Bishop O'Grady; Bateman served notice that it has arrived in force on the AA scene; Barsby served up a TKO by half-time; Ballenas opened up the throttle of one of AA's most prolific offenses; Nechako Valley, Dutchess Park, Kalmalka and Vernon turned up the heat beyond the Coast Mountains and Nanaimo District, Edward Milne and Timberline served up some head turning beat-downs. Week four by and large is the end of pre-season. The final adjustments prior to league play are going to be made and then it is all business.

Dawg Defense On The Hunt

GI's AA Varsity Week Four Top Five

1. Mission Roadrunners

2. John Barsby Bulldogs

3. Seaquam SeaHawks

4. Handsworth Royals

5. Ballenas Whalers

GI's Tier 2 Varsity Week Four Top Five

1. Nanaimo District Islanders

2. Timberline Wolves

3. E.J. Milne Wolverines

4. Howe Sound Sounders

5. G.P. Vanier Towhees

GI's Week Four Picks

Thursday, 29 September

Correlieu @ Kelley Road: The Roadrunners have improved each week of the young season and are now beginning to find some execution to go with their physical brand of play. Correlieu just isn''t deep enough across the board to compete with El Norte's big boys in 2011.

GI's Pick: Kelley Road by 24

Friday, 30 September

Nechako Valley @ Dutchess Park: This is easily going to be one of the best games up North in 2011. Both squads are playing red-hot football and the winner will have the inside track to represent the division come playoff time. This said, the product up in Vanderhoof is smoother and more consistent than what the Condors of Dutchess Park are going to roll on the field with. Systems beat individual stud athletes almost every time.

GI's Pick: Vikings by 16

Okanagen Mission @ Valleyview: Valleyview really took it on the chin this weekend and are in a bit of a tailspin right now. OKM is finding its feet. This one will be really close and in Valleyview's case, the season may hinge on a big performance at home this week.

GI's Pick: OKM by 3

College Heights @ Prince George: The Polars step on the field with a decisive edge in talent. All things considered, the Cougar defense may keep the score close for a couple quarters, but then the Polars roll.

GI's Pick: Polars by 18

Langley @ Robert Bateman: Bateman is on the cusp of crashing the AA Top five. A huge statement game was played by the Wolves vs Hugh Boyd and the Bateman crew surely has equal parts adrenelin and momentum headed into their home tilt vs Langley. The Saints have got to be feeling a lot of urgency as they prepare for Bateman. Another tough loss has em looking in the mirror for some answers. Bateman's speed and thunder/lightning backfield present a big challenge for defenders this year. If the Saints can lock down on the Wolf receivers and crowd the box with everyone else, this could be a close game. If......

GI's Pick: Bateman by 24

Edward Milne (Tier 2) @ John Barsby: These two Island squads meet for the first time ever at the Varsity level. Milne has been playing red hot ball the past two weeks outscoring opponents 93-15. The Wolverines have a great power running game and play-action off of it. Defensively, the blue and maize are a reflection of their hard nosed running attack. This week's game up in Nanaimo will be a true litmus test as to how far the Milne program has come along. Barsby will certainly contest every snap.

GI's Pick: Barsby by 21

Abbottsford Collegiate (Tier 2) @ Holy Cross: This is going to be an awesome match-up across the board. The Panthers are tough as nails on defense and will be licking their chops with delight at the thought of testing themselves against the HC running game. The Crusaders are getting better each week and they hung some good points on #1 ranked AAA St. Thomas Moore this past weekend. If the Crusaders can find their running game and get some heat on the Abbottsford quarterback, this game can go their way. I like Abbottsford in a close one.

GI's Pick: Abbottsford by 2

Earl Marriot (AAA) @ Mission: Something big happened for Marriot this past weekend as they exploded for 60 plus points against a decent Rutland football team. There has got to be some belief and a sense of "the end of the beginnning" as a program with that signature win. Now comes the biggest test of the season for the Mariners as they play AA's #1 ranked Mission Roadrunners. Mission has the complete package offensively and defensively this year. It is tough to find cracks within the Roadrunners. Marriot is going to have to at least score half of last week's total offensively to be in this one. They also have to play defense at another level to avoid getting steam-rolled. Tall order.

GI's Pick: Mission by 26

Moscrop (Tier 2) @ Pitt Meadows: Sometimes it seems that a team picks-up where they left off the week before. Pitt roared back from a big deficit to tie the Windsor Dukes this past week. Moscrop ran into the gathering Abbottsford buzz saw. This one ought to be fairly close for awhile, but Pitt has shown itself to be tougher this year than originally thought. Moscrop will find some success when it gets into its league schedule.

GI's Pick: Pitt Meadows by 12

Mark Isfeld (Tier 2) @ Nanaimo District (Tier 2): Nanaimo District played a very big statement game vs a shell-shocked G.P. Vanier squad this past Friday entering run-time before half. The Islanders are the real deal in 2011 and will be chomping at the bit to tangle with the Ice. Defense and a punishing offensive attack will characterize The Mean Green on Friday. Strap on your headgear folks.

GI's Pick: Islanders by 28

Saturday, 1 October

West Vancouver @ Ballenas: The Whalers played lights out on the road vs AAA's #5 ranked Centennial losing by 1 point. Having scored a touchdown in the dying moments the Whalers were faced with a choice. Go for the win or tie the game. They went for the win and came up just short. This says a lot about the team and its outlook in 2011. The Whalers are playing for keeps and they truly believe that this is going to be a big year for the team/program. West Vancouver is going to be a divisional contender at the AAA level. The Highlanders have played physical smash-mouth games this year and have also played the finesse type of game. The Whalers can dance with either version and enter this game at home with a lot of swagger. Look for a real chess game by the respective coaching staffs. Short-Kicks and the rest of the special teams game will be big players on Saturday.

GI's Pick: West Vancouver by 12

Rick Hansen @ Seaquam: OK gang, now we see if Hansen is the real deal in 2011 or a relative AA middle-weight. Conversely, Seaquam can get this one done in decisive fashion and set the stage for a run at their division and beyond. I have a real hunch that the Hurricanes are going to be a dark horse this year when the season plays itself out. They are improving and showing tons of consistency on both sides of the ball. Seaquam however, is bigger and stronger than their valley foes and their coaching staff knows how to employ the tools at hand.

GI's Pick: Seaquam by 18

Hugh Boyd @ South Delta: Both teams went through humbling games this past week. I believe the health of the respective rosters will have a say in the outcome of this game along with turnovers. All things equal, South Delta has a more dynamic offensive attack and this will carry them to victory vs the Trojans.

GI's Pick: South Delta by 14

Kalamalka @ Mt. Baker: Kalamalka is very talented and the roster is laden with experienced players. Mt. Baker is going through the process of building a program. The long-trip is in Bakers corner this time round, but bus legs are not going to be enough to slow down the Lakers. This one will get out of hand early in the 2nd quarter.

GI's Pick: Kalamalka by 40 plus

Vernon @ Clarence Fulton: Vernon comes off of a dominant performance vs Norkam this past weekend. The Maroons have always been top rail on the football fence in town and the Panthers are perhaps as poised as they have ever been to erase their status as second best. Fulton knows it and will be on their A-Game when these two squads lock horns. Will be fun to watch!

GI's Pick: Fulton by 3

Frank Hurt (Tier 2) @ Timberline (Tier 2): Timberline is resurgent and may be the only Tier 2 team with the firepower to overcome Nanaimo District this year. Frank Hurt needs a big road win to turn around the 2011 season. The Wolves are very tough at home. There will be footballs in the air on Saturday thick as hail when these two squads get it on. Air Wolf will notch a W in their belt this weekend.

GI's Pick: Timberline by 21

G.P. Vanier (Tier 2) @ Howe Sound (Tier 2): This will be an extremely close game with both teams looking to rebound from losses. The Sounders have played tough, respectable ball this year. Vanier has had flashes of greatness, but consistency eludes them. If playbooks get shortened and the coaching staffs emphasize what "has worked" thus far in 2011, we will have a stellar game on our hands. Whomever does this best will win.

GI's Pick: G.P. Vanier by 2

Mt. Douglas (AAA) @ Pitt Meadows: Mt. Douglas will be gracious to their hosts for providing a game at the last second. Even so, Pitt Meadows will emerge from this one like so much shredded coleslaw.

GI's Pick: Mt. Douglas by 36

Gridiron's Week Three Picks

2011-09-18T11:19:00.000-07:00

High Flying Roadrunners Post Big Win!

Week Two Recap

Dust Up In Abbottsford!

One of my favorite movies of the past decade is Gangs of New York. One of my favorite lines/scenes in that movie is when the young up and comer Amsterdam gets into a scrap with one of the gangster Bill the Butcher's senior henchmen McGloin. Amsterdam tunes him up and Bill hollers a resounding "The Mighty McGloin, let himself get fish hooked by a sprat"...much to McGloin's rage and discomfort.   Hey Mission, 22-15 victors over AAA ball's legendary and #2 ranked WJ Mouat Hawks...way to go. You fish hooked em alright! Great Job!!!

In other action Barsby continued to roll and Seaquam made a huge statement about things to come with a sound victory over Kelowna. Bateman survived a scare vs Nanaimo and South Delta added another W to their season. Windsor is getting their legs under them after playing well offensively vs Vanier, but has yet to convince me that they can play with smashmouth teams in the mud. They will get their chance to do so down the road I reckon. I like the big win by Ballenas and was a bit shocked by Hugh Boyd's performance. All can be well for the Trojans with a big game next week however. In the Interior the Maroons exploded for big points and El Norte is quickly shaping up to be the Nechako Valley show for 2011.

In The Deuce, Nanaimo District has been impressive during their first two games and Island squads such as Milne and Vanier have surely declared they are playing for the marbles in 2011. Timberline is back people and are going to shred some secondaries in the coming weeks. We will all see if Moscrop is for real this coming weekend as they look to build upon an air show performance vs Isfeld. Howe Sound was a big surprise as well as they played Valleyview to a draw this past weekend.

GI's Week Three Top AA Varsity Top Five

1. Mission
2. John Barsby
3. Seaquam
4. South Delta
5. Handsworth

GI's Week Three "The Deuce" Top Five

1. Nanaimo District
2. G.P. Vanier
3. Timberline
4. E.J. Milne
5. Moscrop

GI's Week Three Picks

Wednesday, 21 September

College Heights @ Nechako Valley: The Vikings have positioned themselves as the early season favorite to run the table and represent the North in the November playoff dance. College Heights is looking to keep this one close with defense and ball control. I just don't see the explosiveness from the Cougars.   The Vikings will hoist up some big cat pelts in their long houses come Wednesday night.

GI's Pick: Nechako Valley by 36

Friday, 23 September

Rick Hansen @ Langley: Hansen has been literally on the cusp of victory versus two AAA programs to open up their season. Langley served up a disapointing performance versus a rebuilding Pitt Meadows crew this past weekend in their opener. Hansen will be all over the Saints with their balanced run-pass attack coming from multiple formations and motion sets. This one won't be close.

GI's Pick: Hurricanes by 21

Belmont (Tier 2) @ John Barsby: Belmont dropped an egg on the scoreboard in a big loss versus a banged-up Ballenas crew this past Saturday. Was it just "a bad day" for the Blue Bulldogs of Langford? Hard to say. Belmont is coming to play in "The Cage" this Friday against Barsby. Barsby was exposed offensively early on by Langley last Friday and there are some big corrections to be made for them to be consistent this week.   The Dawg Defense has surrendered 7 points in eight quarters thus far in 2011. When it is all said and done however, Barsby has been playing at a higher level than their visitors and is always tough at home.

GI's Pick: Barsby by 28

G.P. Vanier (Tier 2) @ Nanaimo District (Tier 2): This is The Deuce's best match-up of the week. It will be a statement game for the league and looks to be one hec of a physical contest. Both squads have opened up with AA varsity competition and played quite competitively in those games. Vanier really pounds the ball and found their "off-tackle" power running game vs Windsor on Friday. Nanaimo District gave a tough Robert Bateman squad a big scare up in the Valley and has been playing their most physical brand of football in years. Look for turnovers and the kicking game to play a decisive role in Nanaimo come Friday afternoon.

GI's Pick: Nanaimo District by 8

Correlieu @ Dutchess Park: The Condors of Dutchess Park are probably the number two team up in El Norte. Correlieu is working to claw their way out of the basement. This one will be a beat-down.

GI's Pick: Condors feast and win by 27 plus.

Prince George @ Kelley Road: The Polars got taken out behind the ol woodshed and got soundly thrashed by Nechako Valley last week. There has got to be plenty of video material for the Kelley Road coaching staff to peruse and exploit for this weekend's clash of the two biggest schools up North. If the Roadrunners are going to be a part of the playoff mix in 2011, this is a must win for them.

GI's Pick: Upset alert....Kelley Road by 1

Robert Bateman @ Hugh Boyd: Bateman rolls in with a 2-0 record vs Tier 2 competition and Boyd is 0-2 vs AAA opponents in week 1 and 2. Last week's game for the Trojans was an example of bus legs in the first half after a long trip to the Interior. Bateman survived a physical contest with late game heroics on a fumbled ball. I thought the Wolves would play better, particularly as hosts against a team with a long travel day. This one is on Boyd's home field-turf and will be fast. Bateman has an edge in team speed and the Trojans in size. This game will be characterized by the prep that goes into it by the respective coaching staffs. It will become evident as to whom has found a defensive weakness that can be repeatedly exploited. Bateman is up against a legit AA program this week.

GI's Pick: Boyd by 16

Pitt Meadows @ Windsor: OK Pitt, I owe you an apology for underestimating you last week.    That said, you are not going to throw any long balls against Windsor as they are pretty disciplined with their deep thirds. The Dukes play good ball under their 3 shell and teams that roll in thinking they are going to pick them apart underneath are going to throw some picks. If Pitt can play balanced and base off of a power running game they may have some success. I do not think that they are patient enough to do so. The Duke offense is a throw-back to the late 90's early 2000's when they were in their spread offense hayday.    Why not? The new field is built for what the mean green is running this year. The passing game looks good and there is enough of a run game to cause some serious defensive contradictions to emerge.

GI's Pick: Windsor by 18

Abbottsford Collegiate @ Moscrop (Tier 2): Abbey is a bunch of tough nuts who went toe to toe with Barsby for two quarters last Friday. Offensively, they are balanced and run their spread offense very intelligently making adjustments quickly to what the defense is giving them and then accurately exploiting what they have seen. The defense is absolutely physical and will smack opposing running backs with fury and a visceral glee. Love it! Moscrop proved in week 1 that their knees buckle when they get hit. Abbottsford easily matches them athlete for athlete on the edge. This one will be nasty.

GI's Pick: Abbey by 38

Clarence Fulton @ Omak (WA): This is an annual pilgrimage for the Maroons south of the border. They never fare very well in the game, but always emerge a better squad for it. The Maroons are ascendent in 2011 as a program, but this said, they are still on the foothill of the Alp they intend to climb.

GI's Pick: Omak by 40

San Franscisco (CA) @ Handsworth: The Royals put some good points and numbers up in their tilt vs a playoff bound AAA Carson Graham squad last weekend. Defensively, they cannot be happy with themselves however. I think that the Royals will really step-up their defensive game on Friday and keep things much closer. The offense will help a lot with some ball control and points scored.

GI's Pick: Royals lose by 13

Saturday, 24 September

Ballenas @ Centennial (AAA): The 2-0 Whalers who have been feasting on Tier 2 competition take a big step-up in their schedule when they travel to play a AAA Centennial squad who have been taking their licks against top flight US competition the past few weeks. If the Whalers can play up to the potential of their wild and whacky spread offense they have an outside chance in this game. If the contest turns into a run based shoving contest, it could get ugly.

GI's Pick: Centennial by 28

Norkam @ Frank Hurt (Tier 2): This will be a very balanced game on both sides of the ball. The Hornets have not fared well against the run and their offense has been anemic. Norkam on the other hand, is playing its first game of the season. There has bound to be some kinks to be worked out for the Saints. This game will be close, but the Hornets are a bit more battle tested.

GI's Pick: Frank Hurt by 3

STMC (AAA) @ Holy Cross: Two teams that know each other very well. Two teams on vastly different trajectories headed into week 3. The game will be on mercy time by mid to late 2nd quarter.

GI's Pick: STM by 38

Mission @ South Delta: Two teams with big dreams for 2011. Mission has been playing top flight competition the past three weeks and South Delta has been building up to it with this game. Mission just knocked off AAA's number 2 ranked WJ Mouat Hawks last Friday night. The Roadrunner defense has been stellar since the get go and their offense is playing largely mistake free and highly explosive ball. Mission dominates every match-up on either side of the ball. They will take this game into overdrive in the second half.

GI's Pick: Mission by 28

Argyle (Tier 2) @ Mark Isfeld (Tier 2): This game will be close. Both teams have been playing sloppy ball the past two weeks and both teams are searching for some momentum/success. Argyle has the size and numbers headed in to the game. Isfeld has experience and home field. Look for the Ice to put together some decent second half drives that will push them over the top.

GI's Pick: Isfeld by 12

Eric Hamber (Tier 2) @ Edward Milne (Tier 2): Milne has served notice that they are a playoff contender and that they can run the football consistently. Hamber has the "new team blues" as they are going through the growing pains that come with inexperience and teaching the game to brand new players in the 11th and 12th grades. Been there back in the day! Some advice to Hamber, "Find a couple things you think you can do well and hang your hat on em. Celebrate all your little successes along the way and remember to compete against yourselves as opposed to opponents who are largely beyond your control." It will get better for you in the long-run.

GI's Pick: Milne pounds their way to a victory margin of 30 plus points.

Howe Sound (Tier 2) @ Timberline (Tier 2): OK Sounders, I sure had to stomache the taste of eating crowe after your stellar performance against a decent Valleyview squad last weekend. I am not convinced that you are "all that" however and you are going to get seriously shelled by Timberline via the air. Your best hope is to pound the rock and keep their offensive circus off of the field. Timberline has some of its traditional size and a very stubborn ol Defensive Coordinator to go with it. Bad dreams for the Sounders.

GI's Pick: Air Wolves by 14

Valleyview @ Vernon: Word has it that the Panthers are much improved over last year and are working to upset perrenial powers suck as Fulton and OKM this season. Best not to overlook a Valleyview group that is beginning to have a great season of their own in 2011. Valleyview has put in a good September thus far and the game savy they have accrued in weeks 1 and 2 will be at their side as they square off with the Panthers. Look for turnovers and Vernon miscues handling the ball to play a big role during this game.

GI's Pick: Valleyview by 12

West Vancouver (AAA) @ Seaquam: West Vancouver had better have a good point man as I believe they are headed into an ambush. A two touchdown win vs a Handsworth squad trying to find its feet in the season opener is a world away from the slobber-knocker that awaits on Saturday. Seaquam has the size and speed to go toe-to-toe with anything West Van brings at em and the SeaHawks have found some serious momentum coming out of the Kelowna game. I am not saying that this game will be a blowout, but it is surely going to be a much tougher contest than week 1.   Look for a few Seaquam wrinkles via formation and the air to manifest themselves.

GI's Pick: Seaquam by 9

Gridiron's Picks Week 2

2011-09-11T12:06:00.000-07:00

Week 1 Recap

Mission was again impressive as they rolled to victory over Seaquam in a game that was never in doubt. Barsby chewed up Holy Cross on the ground and served up some big defensive licks en route to a shutout performance over the visiting Crusaders. Ballenas came back from a 20-19 deficit in a phyrric victory over Nanaimo District and Bateman flat out steamrolled Moscrop in their season opener. South Delta's Sundevils took AAA New Westminster to the mat in a narrow loss that future opponents had better file in the "These guys are dangerous" file. The Trojans of Hugh Boyd played tough while coming up short vs emerging AAA contender Lord Tweedsmuir and Handsworth sputtered vs AAA West Vancouver. Up in the interior, Valleyview served notice that it is going to be a force to reckon with when conference play begins and up North, it is beginning to look like a two team race for first place between Nechako Valley and Prince George. Week two is going to be fun as things continue to develop.

GI's AA Varsity Top Five

1. Mission
2. John Barsby
3. South Delta
4. Robert Bateman
5. Seaquam

GI's Tier 2 Top Five

1. Nanaimo District
2. Belmont
3. G.P. Vanier
4. Moscrop
5. Frank Hurt

GI's Week Two Picks

Thursday, 15 September

Nechako Valley @ Prince George: In week one Nechako Valley looked tight on defence shutting down Kelly Road and creating 8 turnover (3 Int and 5 fumbles). The Vikings offence will need to be able to capitalize on opportunities in week two as they were in the red zone six times and only came away with two touchdowns. Prince George looked good in their first game taking advantage of an inexperienced Correlieu team that missed some easy tackles. The Polars will have to find their passing game if they want to have success against the athletic Vikings defence. Nechako Valley should take this one with deeper talent and more experience in the trenches.

El Norte's Pick: Nechako Valley by 21

Friday, 16 September

John Barsby @ Abbottsford Collegiate: Barsby put together some good defensive numbers and the Dawg offense showed flashes of its potential en route to blanking Holy Cross 36-0 last Friday. Abby is playing its season opener in this tilt. Barsby has to get-up at 5 AM in order to assemble and catch to 0620 ferry across the moat to be on time for the 12 PM kick-off at Memorial stadium. The first quarter should be interesting with a 20% chance of stray sleep-walkers being sighted at or near the stadium. Abbottsford is surely a team on the rise with big, physical players up front and a forward leaning power running game behind them. Play action pass is a concern for the Dawg defenders as is the Abbottsford QB outside of the pocket. I like Barsby's special teams as a difference maker in this contest along with their buzz saw offensive assault. So far this year the defense has been perfect in the points against category. Could be a fun game to watch.

GI's Pick: Barsby by 20

Mt. Boucherie (AAA) @ Rick Hansen: This year's Hansen squad is an improvement over the 2010 edition and they played a good tough game vs Marriot last weekend. That said, Mt. Boucherie has a stronger roster and has consistently demonstrated themselves to be an upper-mid level AAA contender in the Interior. Look for the Bears to lean on some heavy duty power running throughout the contest en route to a physically satisfying road victory.

GI's Pick: Mt. Boucherie by 8

South Delta @ Earl Marriot (AAA): Surprisingly close score for the Sundevils last week as they travelled to New Westminster. Marriot is coming off of an emotional and confidence building win versus Rick Hansen in week one. I think that the Sundevils are going to take another big step forward this weekend vs the Mariners as their passing game begins to click and their defense picks-up where they left off vs the run happy Hyaks. Marriot may have turned a corner somewhat, but certainly not at a right angle just yet.

GI's Pick: South Delta by 12

Holy Cross @ Lord Tweedsmuir: The Crusaders are smarting from their opener at John Barsby and will be a better team headed into this week's tilt vs LT. The Panthers really bealieve that 2011 is their year and are seeking to run the table in pre-season at the very least. HC is going to run a lot of power and this feeds right into the strength of the Panther defense. LT does a great job of preparing for opponents week by week and they are not going to get surprised come Friday. The balanced Panther offense is going to find some cracks in the Crusader defensive castle so-to-speak that will lead to some big plays on offense.

GI's Pick: LT by 24

Hugh Boyd @ Rutland (AAA): Boyd's long travel day will be rewarded with the first W of the season as they complete their home and home with Rutland. A good performance vs the much stronger Lord Tweedsmuir Panthers last weekend is a great building block for the Trojans in their quest for improvement. The score in this game will widen as the clock winds down.

GI's Pick: Boyd by 23

G.P. Vanier (Tier 2) @ Windsor: Vanier is going to have the athletes, the size and the overall speed in this contest by a wide and clear margin. Windsor knows how to defend against power running games and their cover three is about as air tight as it gets. Look for Vanier's big back to impress early, but when the Dukes dial in on the two or three favorite plays of the Towhee offense, he will get gang tackled the rest of the day. Defensively, the Dukes will come up with some picks and will put their offense on a short field several times. The Duke offense will hit Vanier "where they aint" and trap the hec out of the defensive front.

GI's Pick: Windsor by 22

Timberline @ Eric Hamber: Timberline is not going to roll into town with much more than twenty bodies at the outside. The kids that suit up however, will be good players and Hamber will not know what hit them when the Wolves get to chucking the ball around the field. Look for a very big Timberline offensive output in this one.

GI's Pick: Timberline by 40

Mark Isfeld (Tier 2) @ Moscrop (Tier 2): Isfeld travels to play a seriously tenderized Moscrop team this Friday. If the Ice can put together a physical performance the Panthers may crumble as the game progresses. It remains to be seen what Isfeld is all about in 2011 having elected to skip spring football. Moscrop has played their toughest game of the season and things can only get better from here if they can put a good week of practice together.

GI's Pick: Moscrop by 7

Valleyview @ Howe Sound Tier 2): Valleyview just knocked off an AAA opponent. Howe Sound is green as grass. This game by any measure will not be close. Howe Sound's biggest advantage will come from their sloppy play making the game so disjointed that the Vikings never get into a groove.

GI's Pick: Valleyview by 30 plus.

Nanaimo District (Tier 2) @ Robert Bateman: Bateman blew the doors off of a very outmatched Moscrop squad last week with the game called mid third quarter and the Wolves up by 40 or so. Nanaimo District was a couple broken plays away from possibly upsetting Ballenas in their opener. The Bateman roster and power running game are going to be a terrific test for their Island guests on Friday afternoon. Nanaimo District can play some good ball however, so the score will not be as lopsided as some may think. Bateman is the real deal and will be the beneficiary of a home game vs an opponent who has travelled for 4 hours. This game will be close at half-time and then will open up.

GI's Pick: Bateman by 26

Pitt Meadows @ Langley: The Marauders are in a total re-build this year. Langley is stronger than it has ever been. Look for the big, physical Saints to run a lot of power right at the Marauder defense. This game will get ugly by the mid third quarter.

GI's Pick: Langley by 30

Seaquam @ Kelowna (AAA): Kelowna and Seaquam know each other very, very well as the coaching staff are long-time friends and these two squads have made it an annual habit to square off against one another in pre-season. I think the Owls turned a page offensively as they came roaring back to erase a large deficit on the scoreboard vs Carson last week narrowly losing that game. Seaquam played Mission tough throughout and will also be playing better ball second time around. I think that the Owls are a bit ahead in terms of offensive execution heading into this game and will not find themselve overly surprised by the SeaHawk attack.

GI's Pick: Kelowna by 7

Mission @ WJ Mouat (AAA): This will be a defining game for Mission as they cross the valley to tangle with arguably the second best team in AAA. Size and speed are equally matched as are tangibles such as experience and strength of schedule to date. Mission's defense is coming off of a big performance and the Mouat tilt vs Mt. Douglas gives the Roadrunner staff plenty of material to work with as the Hawks gave up big points. Coach Watrin was keeping his offensive cards close to the vest vs Seaquam too. These two programs are know for offense in particular. I think however, it will be the respective defenses that are going to define who wins and loses.

GI's Pick: Mission by 2 Yep, you heard it here first.

College Heights @ Correlieu: Neither team looked polished in week one, but both showed some signs of life. College Heights wasn't able to contain the speed that Duchess Park brought to the field in their opener, but will have a better match up this week as they will be the more athletic team. If the Cougars can find their offensive leaders, this one could be over early. Correlieu's ability to make key plays in their opener lends some hope that if they can find a way to come together as a defence, they could walk away with a win.

El Norte's Pick: College Heights by 14

Kelley Road @ Dutchess Park: The tale of the tape would say these are teams headed in opposite directions. Kelly Road with no points in its first two games is searching for that spark they had on offence last season. Dutchess Park looked explosive with their team speed ripping apart College Heights in last week's game. Both of these squads played in zero week so they ought to start to hit their stride in week two. Both teams are very athletic with Kelly Road bringing a lot of physicality on every play, but they may not have the answers for the well rounded offence of the Condors.

El Norte's Pick: Dutchess Park by 7

Saturday, September 17th

Handsworth @ Carson Graham (AAA): The 2011 edition of the Buchannan Bowl looks to be a pretty good game looking at last week's results for the Royals and Eagles respectively. Handsworth, a notorious slow starter, ought to improve on their collective performance vs West Van in week 1 while the Eagles are surely on a high after coming out on top of a shootout with Kelowna. Look for the Eagles to exert their size and speed advantage to full effect in this game.

GI's Pick: Carson by 17

Belmont (Tier 2) @ Ballenas: In terms of size and athleticism these two teams are very evenly matched. The Whalers however, have a lot more time invested in their offensive attack than the Bulldogs and execute to a much higher level. There is also the psychological hurdle for the Belmont group who have never come out on top in this contest. The wilcard on Saturday is going to be the health of Ballenas. They got royally chewed up by Nanaimo District last Friday and will be using a lot of smoke and mirrors to get by. Look for Ballenas to air up the ball a whole bunch and move it on the ground East-West with standout receiver Dustin Rodriguez. If Belmont can lock down on him and keep the Whaler QB in the pocket, we could have a bit of a game on our hands.

GI's Pick: Whalers by 23

Edward Milne (Tier 2) @ Frank Hurt (Tier 2): Milne has a pretty good little squad on their hands in 2011. Frank Hurt is featuring a wide open attack that could be feast or famine depending on the Wolverine secondary's ability to defend the vertical routes. Milne has a decent power running game to go with a well constructed play-action passing attack.

GI's Pick: Milne in an "upset" by 8

Gridiron's Week 0 Week/Week 1 Predictions

2011-08-22T08:13:00.000-07:00

Week 1 grudge match has Seaquam looking for redemption!

GI's AA Top Five

1. Mission

2. John Barsby

3. Seaquam

4. Handsworth

5. Holy Cross

GI's Tier 2 Top Five

1. Belmont
2. G.P. Vanier

3. Nanaimo District

4. Frank Hurt
5. Moscrop

Zero Week

Friday, 2 Sept.

South Delta vs Dutchess Park: I've got to take South Delta in this one. Way to much fire power offensively for the Condors to handle and a dominant SunDevil defensive line will make itself felt.

GI's Pick: Sundevils by 46

Kelley Road vs Salmon Arm: Salmon Arm is in a rebuild and is inserting a new offense for 2011. Kelley Road is the strongest it has been in years with a very veteren crew taking the field. Look for a closer score than many may think although I believe that the Golds of Salmon Arm are still ahead developmentally.

GI's Pick: Salmon Arm by 18

Week 1

Friday, 9 Sept.

Rick Hansen @ Earl Marriot (AAA): A struggling yet plucky Marriot squad hosts the rebuilding Hurricanes. This game means a lot more to the Mariners than it does to the Hurricanes in terms of confidence building and setting the tone for the season. If Marriot has a couple big play athletes that get loose on the Hurricane defense, this becomes a shoot out of a game. I'm thinking there are a couple in the mix. Hansen will spread the ball around very well and be opportunistic offensivley. The Hurrican special teams units will factor in as well.

GI's Pick: Hansen by 6

Moscrop (Tier 2) @ Robert Bateman: Moscrop looks to be a force in Tier 2. Bateman has high expectations for their first year of AA. These teams played tough games against one another last season. Moscrop is going to find out the hard way in this game what the value of having a JV squad last year is all about. Both squads will feature wide open offensive attacks and the defenses will have their work cut out for themselves from the first whistle. Batemen however, has a decisive advantage in team speed, size and overall athleticism. Good opening week game for Moscrop in terms of team development. Moscrop will have their chests puffed out exiting the stadium and headed into week 2 prep.

GI's Pick: Bateman by 34

Ballenas @ Nanaimo District (Tier 2): These two squads have played some epic JV games the past two years. The rosters know one another well and there is a hunger to get smackin that is mutual. Ballenas goes into the game with a size and speed advantage. The Whalers are also very polished offensively with a wide-open run/pass attack that forces defenses to defend every square inch of the field. Nanaimo District is going to be very, very challenged to keep pace with the high flying Whalers. The Islanders are an unknown coming out of Spring Ball. I like their physicality and attitude. If this group is healthy headed into the game, who knows what they can deliver. Preventing Ballenas from making the big-play and turning the game into a slug festival is absolutely critical for the Islanders to have a chance. Ball control and not turning it over is a co-equal in terms of winning this game The body of off-season work by the Whaler offense is going to be a decisive factor. The game is a good choice for the NDSS crew in terms of competing against top flight competition.

GI's Pick: Ballenas by 28

South Kamloops @ Windsor: The Dukes are going to respond to last June's pummeling at the hands of Mission with a very impressive August Camp and opening game performance. There are no illusions of grandeur amongst the green and gold and the hard-work/underdog attitude will permeate the preparation that goes into this contest. SKS is going to rely on a big back and a predictable slow developing offense early on. I think the Dukes are going to find ways of exploiting what is given to them while jumping all over the Titan offense.

GI's Pick: Dukes by 17

Rutland (AAA) @ Valleyview: Good pick for Valleyview to start their season. Rutland will have some horses to be sure, but have weathered a couple consecutive tough seasons heading into this tilt. It will be interesting to see if the Voodoo have the relentless mentality of a winning squad or if they are going to play football tic-tac-toe hoping they are left holding the chalk last. Valleyview has put together some quality seasons of late and will bring that continuity into their opening game. This will be a close contest that comes down to turnovers and the ability to prevent the big play.

GI's Pick: Valleyview by 2

Holy Cross @ John Barsby: Tough to tell what to expect in this game. Both squads bring an extremely physical brand of play on to the field and the rosters match up pretty darn equally in terms of size and speed. The coaching staffs are not very familiar with one another and the respective rosters have never played each other. What we have here is a game where turnovers and eliminating the big play could never be more important. The ability of both defensive coordinators to rapidly adapt to what is being thrown their way will be crucial as the game develops. I also look for special teams units to be difference makers. This one could go down to the wire.

GI's Pick: Barsby by 1

Clarence Fulton @ Mt. Boucherie (AAA): I like this match-up for a lot of reasons. Firstly, both of these programs are quality run through and through with some great historical rivalry. Mt. Boucherie is a tough opponent for the Maroons and this will surely get folks oriented in terms of what needs work headed into week 2 and beyond. The Bears have the horses in this tilt and the score will reflect this as the game plays out. Though this is going to be a loss for Fulton on the scoreboard, it is going to be a great step along the road to developing a squad that eventually competes for the divisional title come October/November.

GI's Pick: Mt. Boucherie by 18

Lord Tweedsmuir (AAA) @ Hugh Boyd: The Panthers and Trojans have a great history of hard fought, competitive games versus one another dating back to LT's arrival at AA ball in 2004. At present, Boyd is ascendent and there is talk out there in football circles that LT could be an AAA contender in 2011. Looking at the respective rosters, there is a lot of even match-ups in key positions. The coaching and player experience also stack-up very evenly. This game will be a gem. There will be a lot of physical play and the outcome will be decided by a couple of explosive plays. I think LT has a couple more in their kit than Boyd.

GI's Pick: LT by 14

South Delta @ New Westminster: This has become a good pre-season rivalry game for both squads in recent years. This year's tilt will be very telling as we look at the direction that both teams are heading. The Hyaks are looking to rejoin the top five in AAA and S. Delta has similar intentions at AA. My take is that the SunDevils are going to be hard pressed to slow down the New West offensive attack, particularly on the ground. The Hyaks will likely have an easier time defending South Delta's precision passing game. Look for some SunDevil trick plays to be unleased in an attempt to capture momentum during the first or second quarter. It won't be enough.

GI's Pick: New Westminster by 28

Eric Hamber @ Mark Isfeld: Hamber's first varsity game in history will be played at the always tough venue of Bill Moore Park in Courtenay vs the veteren Mark Isfeld Ice. Isfeld held off of spring ball this year to get some rugby on the go. Scheme wise this will hurt them a bit, but there will be a toughness factor and some conditioning that plays into their favor as a result. A long trip and inexperience will be too much for the young Hamber squad to overcome. The trip however will certainly serve as a team builder and go a long ways towards building some familiarity with the provincial football mileau.

GI's Pick: Isfeld by 20

Frank Hurt @ G.P. Vanier: The defending champs are in tough with this trip. Vanier is big, strong, fast and rife with experience. This year could very well belong to the Towhees and what better way to start than with a home game vs a provincially ranked program. Look for Hurt to unveil a wide open spread attack offensively and Vanier to come out smashmouth with the power game they are built for. Look for Vanier to get in rhythm early.

GI's Pick: Vanier by 16

Kelly Road vs Nechako Valley: Two of the more veteran and savy squads meet in week 1. Alot of skill on both teams with Nechako Valley deep on defence and Kelly Road chalk full of offensive weaponry. It should be an interesting match up to see who is ready in week 1. Kelly Road will have a road exhibition game against Salmon Arm under their belt, but Nechako Valley will likely come out on top with a team that has played together for years and has compiled a couple community 9-man titles.

GI's Pick: Nechako Valley by 14

Prince George vs Correlieu: The two biggest schoosl in El Norte meet for their respective week one openers. The similarity ends here and when it comes to football , it will be no contest. Prince George is deep with returning talent from their conference title last season and should dominate the young re-building squad from Quesnel.

GI's Pick: Prince George by 35

Duchess Park vs College Heights: At face value,Duchess Park would seem to be the favorite on paper with some great veteren offensive talent rolling into the game. This game however, will in all probability be a close one because of College Heights commitment to defence and a grinding, clock munching style of offence. At game's end, the Condors of Dutchess Park should come out on top, but in a closer game then they find comfortable playing.

GI's Pick: Dutchess Park by 6

Saturday 10 Sept.

West Vancouver (AAA) at Handsworth: There was a time not so long ago when West Vancouver would clean house in this game. That is clearly not the case now and I look for the most competitive Handsworth Squad since 2007 to dominate every phase of this game.

GI's Pick: Handsworth by 24

Seaquam @ Mission: Want a preview of a potential 2011 playoff match-up? Here it is. Easily one of the biggest games in September, the SeaHawks and Roadrunners are going to get after it on Saturday afternoon! Mission is going to be extremely tough for the September version of the Seaquam squad to handle. I think that the complete SeaHawk attack won't be ready until October whereas the Roadrunners, historically one of the fastest starting teams in AA will be rolling on all cylinders. Seaquam's power running game will face trouble as Mission has bigger and faster bodies to go toe to toe with it. The Mission offensive attack, its explosiveness and its diversity will carry the day for the big green. Late scores on big plays will factor in with this re-match of last November's classic quarter-final game.

GI's Pick: Mission by 20

Ranking The Deuce 2011

2011-08-04T13:22:00.000-07:00

The Deuce Year Four

Tier 2 Varsity, AKA "The Deuce" is really coming along entering year 4. The conferences are set, the schedule is up, and the pre-season is just around the corner. Last year the league parity was outstanding and I believe that 2011 will pick-up where its predecessor left off in that regard. There are new programs this year to compete with the league's veteren core. One thing that really impresses me is that once struggling programs have developed a lot of stability and have grown roots in this league. New, big school programs are getting their first year of varsity play here and as we witnessed with Robert Batemen, have transitioned up the food chain to take their place in the mix. With several years under its belt, The Deuce has developed relationships and comraderie amongst its member programs and that has also helped to become fertile program building ground. This group is demonstrating solid health. Good! More football is great football!!

Ranking The Deuce

Island Conference

1. Belmont: Last year's Island Champs and provincial runner-up is reloading for another run at the Ackles Cup. Next year is AAA for the Bulldogs and there is an air of excitement about the program headed into September's crucible. Belmont plays an exceptionally tough exhibition schedule that begins with AA Ballenas on the road followed up with AA John Barsby again on the road and then cross-town rival AAA powerhouse Mt. Douglas. The battle hardened survivors ought to cut a swathe through their league schedule in October/November. The key to this team's success will be discipline throughout the ranks. Anything less than a very focused approach to the game will result in a loss in the big games of November/December.

2. G.P. Vanier: This team has it all! Numbers, size and speed that are unrivalled in Tier 2. In particular, the best running back in the league wears Towhee Green and White. The achilles heal across the past three years for Vanier is that they get out-finessed by the better offensive minds in the league. If Vanier really nails down their fundamental play up front and gets an answer to teams who can spread the ball around, look-out. These guys are a good pick to go all the way in 2011.

3. Timberline: The Wolves are sitting precariously at number three. These guys could fall off and tumble lower this year or conversely, they could make another run not only at the conference title, but for the Ackles Cup. Coaching is not the problem here, numbers are. If the athletes come out for ball, look for the Wolves to be back at their aerial ways this season. Key for the Wolves is the development of a solid offensive line. The backfield and receivers are in place and getting the big fellas up front out for ball is of the highest priority. If this mission gets accomplished, nobody in the league can chuck the rock like Timberline.

4. Edward Milne: Football is really taking off in the town of Sooke. Milne fielded a very competitive squad in 2010 and returns a solid core of players for the 2011 season. This could be a breakout year for the Wolverines. A big test comes early versus the Deuce's 2010 champs Frank Hurt in week 1. Week four has a visit to AA John Barsby as the final tune-up before a huge contest versus arch-rival Belmont. I think that this team is going to look back on the coming season when it is all said and done with fond memories. Darkhorse on the Island right here.

5. Mark Isfeld: This is a tough squad that could very easily finish in the top three of the division. Coach Sutton does an admirable job with limited help at his side each and every year. A key indicator of success is how many players return to play each year and he gets alot of em back! The Ice need to replace a good offensive backfield lost to graduation this past spring and the defense is going to have to pick-up the slack until the offense finds its feet. Pre-season is a good mix of opponents who will bring out Isfeld's best. Any thing better than a 2-2 September means these guys are are going to be serious playoff contenders.

6. Gulf Islands: The Scorpions play a very scrappy brand of football and in years where their numbers are up, they can be very dangerous when overlooked. Look for a fast back and some great misdirection from these guys. Defensively, this group tackles very well and does a great job of defending the perimeter.

Western Conference

1. Nanaimo District: A group of flat out tough guys come up from last year's JV squad to join a very good group of varsity vets in 2011. The Islanders have record numbers out for their varsity and there is a tangible buzz about this season's prospects amongst the players and coaches alike. I like this team's toughness, speed and football smarts. Opening games versus AA Ballenas and AA South Kamloops will prepare this group well for divisional tilts to follow. Nanaimo District has been a provincial semi-finalist two years in a row and this may very well be their break through year.

2. Frank Hurt: There has been a lot of sandbagging going on in terms of how well the defending champions figure to do in 2011. This flys in the face of the hard-work that has been done during the winter/spring, the calibre of the returning players and the momentum this large school has coming off of a championship. The Hornets are a legitimate threat to repeat in 2011 assuming the hard work continues and the players buy in. Offensively, this crew will be playing more out of a pistol look and stretching the field using fly/jet sweeps. The biggest challenge will be getting the offensive line up to speed. Defensively, look for the heat to come early and often from the opportunistic defenders. Opponents who buy into "rebuild" are in for a shocker.

3. Moscrop: This is a program on the rise. With the establishment of a JV squad this year, the quality of varsity play in 2012 is set to explode. This year's varsity Panthers are going to be switching to a more wide open attack offensively. Folks can expect size and physicality on the defensive side as well as improved overall pass defense. It is going to be very important for the Panther defense to give the offense time to develop. I think the September exhibition weeks are going to be a good seguay into October's league tilts. If the offense can keep the heat off of their quarterback and have enough run to balance their attack, theyse guys can challenge for the Ackles Cup.

4. Argyle: This is a very big school loaded with athletes out for its very first year of JV and Varsity ball. If the coaching staff is deep and if the coaching staff is patient enough to rep up fundamentals while keeping schemes simple, this team could be a player come October. A playoff seed is not out of the realm of possibility.

5. Eric Hamber: With a year of JV ball under their belts, Hamber's varsity crew will have some leadership on board as they kick-off their first year of ball at the more senior level. The keys to success are very similar to what I described with Argyle. I am going to be very interested in the outcome of the September tilts vs Mark Isfeld and Timberline. A victory or even close games would be a definite sign of good things to come.

6. Howe Sound: The potential always exists for the Sounders to rattle cages at the top of the divisional heap. There are great athletes in the school and more and more of them it seems are coming out for football. There is a new coaching staff at the helm this year so it will be a couple of weeks into September when we see which direction they are leading the program. Spring ball showed that there is much work ahead.

GI's Pre-Season Top Five

The Hornets look to swarm back to the Ackles Cup in 2011!

1. Belmont

2. G.P. Vanier

3. Nanaimo District

4. Frank Hurt

5. Moscrop

2011 AA Varsity Pre-Season Preview

2011-08-03T08:33:00.000-07:00

2011 Here We Go!

Lets Get It On!

It's August, high summer and you can feel a tiny Autumn tinge in the early morning cool. It's been way too long since the last snap of ball and it is time to pull out GI's Crystal Ball to see how things are going to shake down in BC's biggest Varsity tier of play. Folks have been working hard and the table is now set for a stellar season ahead.

Ranking The Conferences 2011

#1 Western AA Varsity

GI's Projected Order Of Finish

1. John Barsby

2. Handsworth

3. South Delta

4. Ballenas

5. Windsor

The top four in this division are virtually interchangeable. Barsby and Handsworth, last year's finalists, have a week six rematch at the Royals home dirt that will not only be a slobber-knocker, but will be huge in the divisional playoff race. The Dawgs and Royals return a solid veteren core and welcome impressive arrivals from their JV ranks. South Delta has been chomping at the bit to get 2011 rolling. The Sundevils will be strong up-front and have a superb cast of backs and receivers. Ballenas is surely in an "up-year" with last year's eleventh grade having been the core of their 2010 squad and welcoming a BC semi-finalist group of 10's into the varsity fold. There is now the traditional depth and size on the Whaler Varsity that was conspicuously absent in 09 and 10. Bottom line in "The West", a team that fails to prepare on any given week could be walking home with their head down kicking rocks up the street in short order. Windsor is in the middle of a rebuild but you cannot ever, ever count one of Coach Schuman's squads out of the mix. The Dukes will improve week to week as the early season unfolds and will be very dangerous at home in the late weeks. The green and yellow are a long-shot for a playoff seed, but don't count em out.

#2 Southern AA Varsity

GI's Projected Order of Finish

1. Seaquam

2. Holy Cross

3. Hugh Boyd

4. Langley

Dang, this group is going to have a whole lot of parity when the season is all said and done. In fact, it is my belief that the plus-minus tie breaker system is going to be called into use at the conclusion of regular season play in early November. I like Seaquam to finish top rail on the fence because they have size up-front and a big back. When Seaquam has this combination, they play in their smashmouth comfort zone. This frees them up to be very creative offensively in big games with opponents who overcompensate for the downhill running attack. Holy Cross could very well come out on top of "The South" in 2011. The Crusaders played tough across their 2010 schedule and have numbers out for their varsity in excess of 45. In addition, this year's version has re-assembled one of its better coaching staffs in years to mould the talent at hand into a gridiron juggernaut. AA football has surely gotten a lot better with the arrival of the Crusaders to its ranks. Huge Boyd is Back! If the Trojans have been doing anything this past eight months, they have been sitting at the supper table and cruising the local buffet circuit. All joking aside, a great group of JV's have moved up to augment the better half of last years varsity squad. There is a hunger for success withing both groups and the chemistry/athletic mix exists for a top knotch squad in 2011. Hugh Boyd has a history of playing in tough conferences and have been very successful winning big games when the athletic decks are stacked evenly. There is a very good chance that they can split their divisional games with Seaquam and Holy Cross. Though projected last in their division, Langley cannot be completely discounted this Fall. This program in now mature and the roster stacks up in terms of numbers, size and athleticism with their divisional peers. There is a tipping point mentally where a program feels it can and should win consistently. I think that September is make or break for this group in terms of gaining the belief and swagger to go knock the jock off of the divisional competition. From a personal perspective, it would warm this ol heart to see the Saints turn the corner in 2011.

#3 Eastern AA Varsity

GI's Projected Order of Finish

1. Mission

2. Robert Bateman

3. Rick Hansen

4. Abbottsford Collegiate

5. Pitt Meadows

This division is a two team race and even then, I've got to call out Mission as the clear favorite to secure the number one seed headed into the post-season dance. Having Robert Bateman in the mix instantly makes the Roadrunners better as they are going to be pushed hard by the newcomers. On paper, it is very possible that Mission and Bateman have the 1-2 rosters in BC in terms of size and athleticism. The Friday, 28 October tilt between the two is going to be nuts. Played at 1 PM on Bateman's dirt with the whole dang school out to watch, this could easily be the game of the year. Plan to see this one if you can! The second tier in this division consists of Rick Hansen and Abbottsford Collegiate. Hansen has the edge by virtue of a deeper set of "skill positions" and a more dynamic offensive attack. I like the way that Abbottsford has been putting things together though and they pound the rock very well. Defensively, the red and black are a reflection of their offensive philosophy and this means they can get into nasty physical contests with teams that cannot get it done via the air. Hansen can throw. Weather and playing surface could be all important when these two squads meet. Pitt Meadows graduated the majority of its talent after last year's playoff run. The cupboards are pretty empty for the Marauders such as I can tell unless they have done a bang-up job of in-school recruiting this past eight months. Staying alive and keeping their religion for seasons ahead may be a challenging, yet realistic goal in 2011.

#4 Okanagen AA Varsity

GI's Projected Order of Finish

1. Clarence Fulton

2. Norkam

3. Valleyview

4. OKM

5. South Kamloops

6. Kalmalka

7. Vernon

8. Mt. Baker

It was eleven years ago the last time an Interior collossus emerged on the playoff scene. Fulton was flat out dominant with back-to-back semi-final appearances in 99-2000. In 1999 John Pedersen, the predecessor of today's South Kamloops HS was a monster squad as well, taking the eventual Delta HS championship squad to the mat in a hard fought semi-final tilt. Since those glory days alot of evolution has taken place in the Interior. The 2011 alignments are darn near the same they were back then for the first time in a decade. Many of the same dynamics are now in play and this gives the smashmouth guys in sagebrush country some serious cause for hope. I believe the games are going to be very, very competitive and the level of play will now begin to rise!

Looking at the athletic breakdown in terms of roster maturity and returning starters, this is going to be a season of parity amongst the top five or so teams. Fulton will be top of the heap with a large and talented class rising from the JV ranks. They are going to have to play lights-out to realize their potential as Valleyview returns seven of the big fellas up front and a complete backfield sans quarterback. Norkam, much like the Maroons will have a big group of experienced 11's as well. OKM is in a rebuild this year, but they have shown much consistency in terms of fielding highly competitive squads the past six years. South Kamloops, a very big school, has a big back, but needs to find a supporting cast to compliment him. Look for Kalmalka to be the dark horse in this division and one of the favorites in 2012. Mt. Baker is a bit of an unknown. Proximity to Idaho and Montana should be a natural plus for these guys if they built in a set of yearly home and home with the programs south of the 49th.

Okanagen-Interior Insider's Report

1. Kal : Athletic and well coached. Have won the last two JV titles in the Interior.

2. South Kam: Perennial Interior power. Dropped to AA, making them the biggest school in the conference by far.

3. Vernon : Could the toughest , hardest hitting team in the Interior this year.

4. Valleyview: Option offense tough to defend, always prepared and ready.

5. Fulton: Defending champs are rebuilding

6. Nor Kam: Physical team that is always close.

7. OKM : Will be lead by Grade 11's, fast and wide open.

8. Mount Baker: Kootenay school still in growing stages.

Key Dates:

Sept. 24 South Kam at Kal...the best 2 teams in the conference meet early!

Oct. 1 Vernon at Fulton. The battle of Vernon, VSS always plays Fulton tough.

Oct. 14 Nor Kam at Valleyview : Battle of Kamloops, bragging rights on the line.

Oct. 15 OKM at Mt. Baker: OKM makes the long trek to the Kootenays in a game filled with offense.

Nov. 4 South Kam at Valleyview will help decide the league title.

Nov. 5 Fulton at Kal also will decide the league title. Fulton has held the city championship of Vernon 13 straight years, since 1999. Could be the year they give it up.

#5 AA North

GI's Projected Order of Finish

1. Kelley Road

2. Prince George

3. Nechako Valley

4. Dutchess Park

5. Correlieu

6. College Heights

El Norte has been working out amazingly well the past few years in terms of divisional parity, rivalry and program health. This to me is the year that the calibre of play begins to seriously accellerate. JV squads are being established and the top four teams are going to be picking-up where they left off last year. All four return the majority of their players and the parity is going to lead to innovative coaching all round. Kelley Road and PG are huge schools and the beef on the roster will be representative. The most efficient squad in terms of talent development is Nechako Valley who are welcoming a group of 9 man BC community champs to the fold. Dutchess Park was very young last year and will be much improved along with Quenel's Correlieu HS who has similar age and experience demographics. The coaching staff at College Heights has their work cut out for them as they took huge graduation hits this spring.

There is a true air of football excitement up North with not only high school ball taking off, but a serious attempt at a BCFC franchise in the making. The required facility upgrade in terms of building a central artificial playing surface would surely benefit all. Also, in the mid to long-term, a lot of football people would likely stay in town and a pool of young coaching talent would begin to emerge as players transition from BCFC competition. Key for the whole group however, is to match their human resources with their growth and aspirations so as to avoid implosion.

Four things I'd love to see happen in the next couple of years in terms of expansion in the North: 1) Program in Williams Lake 2) Program in 100 Mile House 3) Program in Dawson Creek 4) Program in Ft. St. John.

As far as playoffs go, it would be huge to see a North division squad win a first round playoff victory. Huge I say, but not likely in 2011. With a year of JV feeder squads under their belts, 2012 is a distinct possibility.

Insider report on El Norte:

1. Nechako Valley Vikings

After finishing as runners up in the northern finals and getting a taste of the road in the BC High School playoffs this could be a breakout year for the Vikings. They have the pieces on offence with Kyle Varley (RB) running the ball really well at off season camps and Connor Nielsen (QB) looks ready to have a breakout season. The only thing that might slow down this offence is its lack of size on the offensive line, but their depth of good athletes will allow them to make plays and be a very explosive offence if they get past the line pf schrimage. On Defence, Hudson Schneider (S) will lead the Vikings who always seem to have a fast physical crew and would expect to see the same again this season. This group of players have played together and have had success in community so look for them to have succes again this season.

2. Kelly Road Roadrunners

One year older for a very young team last season, they went through the growing pains of a young team and look poised to make some noise this season. The Roadrunners may have the best offensive attack with the ability to run the ball with Tyler Roth (RB) for hard yards or put the ball in the air with Zach Zapporrozan-Jones (QB), Devin Readman (WR) and Devon Gurney (WR). On defence Travis Shields (DL) will anchor a big, strong defensive unit for the runners. Inexperience could still come back to bite this team in close games.

3. Duchess Park Condors

Duchess Park looked like a front runner to be the top team this year with their multi threat offence from last season. If they can find someone who can fill the hole left with the departure of Montell Lindgren (WR) then they should be able to get their aerial game going again with Rylan Matters (QB) getting more settled as the pivot in 2011. Look for Josh Hughson (RB) to see a heavy load in both the run and pass game as he makes plays when he can get out of the backfield. Holes on defence could make for some long nights, but they should be able to iron that out as the season progrsses.

4. College Heights Cougars

Possibly the best defence in the North the Cougars will win games and be in the mix giving teams alot of nail biting games. Though they aren't loaded with offensive power, they will do what they do to grind the ball up the field and break the occasional big pass play. Their ability to lock it down on defence with Duncan Finch (DL), Kaelan Botel (LB), Kieran Muir (CB) and Nick Jobs (S) will keep them in every game, but if they can't find the offensive sparkplugs they could be on the wrong end of alot of those close games.

5. Prince George (PGSS) Polars

Last year's defending champions should be near the top of the heap again this season returning some key pieces from last years northern championship team. The offence will go as far as Tyson Plain (QB) and Brady Lecomte (RB) can carry them. On defence Eric Irving (LB) will lead the way for an athletic group that will limit teams in the run game, but could be get beat up by some of the pass heavy teams. Alot of question marks in alot of key places gives the impression that they will win some games, but how many is hard to predict.

6. Correlieu Clansmen

Unfortunatly for the boys out in Quesnel they are still too young and inexperienced to knock off the rest of the north, but with Jared Roch (QB) Cole Parker (RB) and Nolen Weisbock (LB) they should be able to hang in games as their players continue to grow and develop.

GI's 2011 Pre-Season Top 10

Paleontologists frequently describe T. Rex as a Five Tonne Roadrunner. This year's Mission O. Line is not far off of the mark!

1. Mission: A 76-20 spring scimmage thumping of the proud Windsor Dukes in spring ball (http://www.bclocalnews.com/fraser_valley/m.../123949359.html) with multiple backs averaging 15 yards per-romp and a near perfect QB outing served graphic notice that Mission has bad intentions for AA foes this coming season. The Roadrunner exhibition schedule is the toughest in BC with tilts vs Washington State's North Kitsap, third ranked Seaquam, AAA powerhouse WJ Mouat and seventh ranked South Delta a statement to this squad's expectations. If the Roadruners come out of this crucible healthy and unified, they ought to cakewalk through leage play prior to the big divisional tilt with emerging rival Robert Bateman. The Mission roster is easily the deepest in AA ball.

2. John Barsby: A solid group of veteren players worked very hard over the winter to improve their overall physicality. The returning varsity are joined by a strong group of JV's from last year's championship finalist squad. Spring ball however was inconsistent for the Dawgs who struggled somewhat to distance past success from present reality/challenges. If strong leadership emerges within the roster Barsby will be a force by the time league play begins in October. Look for last year's record setting offensive juggernaut to have a new wrinkle or two in 2011 as they seek to replace many key positions up front vacated due to graduation. Defensively the Dawgs are going to be fast and special teams will be a "Pride and Joy" crew week-to week.

3. Seaquam: The Seahawks are veteren, deep up front and have the power backfield they like to employ. Defensively these guys can play smashmouth with anyone and they rarely if ever find themselves out-finessed by opposing offenses. There is definitely a pattern with this program of week-to-week improvement and they will be solid during the critical divisional tilts of October. With the roster, offensive and defensive schemes such as they are, the kicking-game will be all important for the gold and blue.

4. Handsworth: The Handsworth football program has been exploding in terms of participation the past three years at the grade 8 and JV levels. The varsity are now reaping the harvest and the Royals are going to be very deep across the board in 2011. A championship appearance last year provided a lot of quality reps and preparation for this year's returning crew and this will be evident right out of the gates in September. Handsworth can very realistically set their sights on a return to the big game in 2011. While the re-match versus Barsby in week six is going to be huge and emotionally charged, divisional opponents Ballenas and South Delta had best not be overlooked as they look to secure a little redemption themselves.

5. Holy Cross: OK, lets talk pride and pressure. The Crusaders took some body blows from their former AAA bretheren over the decision to join AA ball. Hec, I am sure there are mixed feelings within the program about the issue as well. The last thing these guys want to do is be a bust their first year in AA. A few short years ago, these guys won it all vs the Foxes, VC's, Centennials and Mouats of the big school league. So, pride of program meets all kinds of external and internal pressure. This could be a recipe for football TNT. The roster is surely deep athletically and it is battle hardened from playing top flight competition. The challenge and excitement for the Crusaders will be in playing teams whom they know very little about. Also, AA ball the past three years has certainly firmed up its game with the parity that has come with the creation of Tier 2. Word through the coaching grapevine is that the HC saff thinks it has a pretty darn good squad on its hands. How good? Lets talk in December.

6. Robert Bateman: Do any of you history buff's remember Joe Stalin's 5 Year plans? Well, these guys are on a 3-year plan as far as I can tell. Big school, starts off year 1 with a varsity squad at Tier 2 and a LOADED JV squad with a 35 plus man roster that is completely 10th graders. Those JV's were dang good athletes who made it to the quarter-finals. The varsity crew got some good seasoning keeping things tough and vanilla their first year. Now its year two and the varsity are playing AA ball. The bulk of this group will be 11's, but the 12's will be present enough to add some great leadership and physicality to the mix. The coaching is very good as well and opponents can expect to run up against the whole offensive and defensive package with this outfit. My impression from watching their JV's last year was a physical, mentally tough, competitive squad with far better than average speed and size. When they learn to play with their pads a bit lower they are going to be frightening. Mission may have the best talent through and through this year, but Bateman is not too far off of the mark. This team will make the playoffs in 2011, it won't be a fun draw for their first round opponent. Now I said 3 year plan. It's waaaaay early but hey, they ought to be the Eastern favorite in 2012. Thats right Mission, get your licks in this year while you can.

7. South Delta: The Sundevils are in a unique position amongst the AA elite. They get great talent every year from their feeder program but that talent is not schooled in the Sundevil way of doing things as South Delta does not run a JV squad. Each year however, this squad plays playoff calibre ball and they won the whole shebang in 2008. How so? Well, this is a very big school, very close to AAA size, so a ready pool of athletes is always on hand. Secondly, the coaching staff is very good. The South Delta team that lines up in the week 9 league finale vs Barsby is going to be a lot better than the early and mid-season version. The coaches have also proven over time a superb ability to match scheme with the talent at hand. Spread or Power, the offense in Navy and Gold colors will be getting the most out of its very talented athletes. The defense is coached up in much the same way. A one or two seed coming out of "The West" is not unimaginable by any stretch for this crew.

8. Ballenas: Aaaannndd here come The Whalers! Anybody out there watch college football on Saturdays? Auburn's first year with their offense showed signs of greatness in 2009. In 2010 it led them to a national title. Take a look at them Whalers when they have the ball in their hands. The similarities are manifest. Ballenas is a two headed monster at quarterback and has a veteren receiver corps that includes one individual who is easily provincial calibre. Up front, they have their traditional size and lots of xxxl game pants have been pulled off of the equipment room shelf for 2011. Defensively, the swagger is back and Coach Hines can do his thing with his LB's now there is a line to keep people off of em. Whaler specials are good to say the least. This team is very complete and will challenge any squad in the division come game day, particularly Handsworth. The Ballenas defense has historically dominated the Royal offense like no other.

9. Hugh Boyd: After a down year by Trojan standards, Boyd is back! A big influx of size and athleticism is moving up from JV and this proud program has too much tradition/competitive juice to be held down for a second straight year. The coaching staff is deep and we can all rest assured that the midnight oil has been burning late into the early AM in preparation for this year's gridiron campaign. With plenty of size up-front, look for the Trojans to get things done inside the box while going big over the top. The Seaquam game and Holy Cross tilt are gonna pop some helmet screws to be sure. It won't be all vanilla however so teams better prep for some circus plays along the way. Defensively we are going to see a patient, gang tackling unit that does not often surrender the big play. The kicking game is going to be decisive in each game the Trojans play.

10. Rick Hansen: Two mediocre JV seasons for the Hurricanes add up to more of the same at varsity in 2011....Wrong! These guys do a great job of developing players along the way and the coaching staff has proven itself to be able to win games at the highest level over the years. This year Hansen has great skills players and an offensive line that will allow them to play some pretty balanced run-pass offense. Hurrican special teams are always well coached and they use their better athletes in these key units. The biggest question mark headed into 2011 is going to be defense. If Hansen can keep things tight late into the 4th quarter this year, their offense has the scheme and playmakers to secure the W more often than naught. Mission and Bateman are going to be too tough for anything other than a number three seed out of the division however. Playoffs are a funny thing however and a good opening draw could lead the Hurricanes deep into the post-season tournament.

DSV to Hudl...WOW!

2011-07-12T12:10:00.000-07:00

Dang!

Well folks, I decided to give the transition from DSV to Huddle a go this morning. At 0900 I called em up. I let Hudle know that we'd already paid for our 2011 DSV. In no time flat, we were signed-up, walked through the online download (zero alterations to my computer security etc) and I had our Spring Ball uploaded. The file was huge, over 180 frames. I went out and mowed the lawn, returned and was very gratified to see that everything was squared away upon my return an hour later. In fact, the simplicity, ease and logical interface made this quite frankly, one of this young summer's surprise hi-lites. Fantastically simple. Video quality was superb and the editing a thing of beauty. A gigantic leap forward! I feel like I just went from flying a biplane to zipping around in an F-16. Even the most technically and time challenged BCSSFA coach is going to thrive with this! Giddy-Up! I just added hours of prep-time to my busy Fall weekends.

DSV Update

2011-07-11T08:57:00.000-07:00

Coaches,

Hold the presses folks. DSV has been sold and there are changes forthcoming. The below communique was issued this AM.

I have done some preliminary research and this looks to be an improvement over what we have been using.

-If you're a current DSV customer, today is an exciting day. Earlier this morning, Digital Sports Video was acquired by Hudl.

Please take just a few minutes to read this email carefully and I'll try to explain why this is so exciting and what it means for everyone.

First of all, who is Hudl?

They're a smart young company based in Lincoln, Nebraska that builds sports video software for coaches like yourself. You can read all about their company here: http://www.hudl.com/about/.

How does this deal benefit me as a coach, athletic director, or recruiter?

If you've paid for DSV this year, you automatically get access to Hudl's world-class video tools and the amazing support team behind them. On top of that, by consolidating DSV and Hudl's customer bases, you'll see:
· More teams to exchange video with. Hudl's exchange system is blazing fast and very easy to use.

· A broader pool of athletes with video for recruiters. This is a win-win for everyone. More athletes means more video which in turn means more exposure to recruiters (and vice versa).

· Even better tools for you as a coach. We'll be incorporating feedback from both of our companies' experiences and all of our coaches to make Hudl even better.

Why did DSV decide to make this deal with Hudl? Aren't you competitors?

Let me be very clear: DSV would not have made this deal if we didn't believe Hudl could support our coaches and help them succeed.

Hudl is built from the ground up to work well online and with new mobile technologies like Apple's iOS and Google's Android platforms. That's where the sports video industry is headed.

Can I still keep using my installed DSV software?

Yes. We will continue to honor existing support contracts for DSV 7 and DSV 8. If you have not renewed your support contract, you can continue to use the software for as long as you want without support.

As a special bonus, any DSV team that purchases a Hudl subscription for 2011 will receive a free upgrade to DSV 8.

What about DSV Anywhere?

Unfortunately, that product will no longer be available. Teams who've purchased DSV Anywhere this year will have immediate access to Hudl. And don't worry, your video and data can be automatically transferred to Hudl.

I will be working as a consultant with Hudl for the next few months to ensure that DSV customers transition seamlessly to the new product.

What about Player Direct?

If you have purchased a Player Direct account for this season, you will be able to access the tools through July 31, 2012. With your subscription, you will have access to Hudl's recruiting tools when they launch this fall.

What if I haven't renewed any of my contracts with DSV for this year?

You're totally free to do as you please. You can continue using a past version of DSV but if you need online access, you'll need to sign-up for Hudl or shop for an alternative product. If you do choose to use Hudl, you can easily import your video and data from DSV to Hudl's online tools.

Over the next few weeks, I'll be working with the Hudl team to reach out to you. Hudl has set up a "DSV Transition Helpline", and a member of their team will be available to answer any questions you have from 7 a.m. - 7 p.m. Monday-Friday. I encourage you to call them - (402) 937-9657.
It has been a pleasure working with each of you over the past few years, and I'm excited to continue to work together in my role with Hudl.

Chris Griffin -

On Mission Creep

2011-04-29T10:48:00.000-07:00

Mission creep is the expansion of a project or mission beyond its original goals, often after initial successes. The term often implies a certain disapproval of newly adopted goals by the user of the term. Mission creep is usually considered undesirable due to the dangerous path of each success breeding more ambitious attempts, only stopping when a final, often catastrophic, failure occurs.

In many respects, we are fast arriving at a point whereby the administrative duties that are required to run a BCSSFA program in a fashion that is compliant with the rules set-forth by our leadership will be untenable over the long haul.

There is a tipping point that will be reached where the joy of coaching and quite frankly, the time to coach is outweighed by "mandatory requirements" from on high. I do not use the term "mandatory requirements" derisively as they are well intentioned at their source.

The great challenge our organization faces is to apply uniformed standards that must be complied with to a membership that is anything but uniform in terms of time, resources, organization and human energy. With each additional element added to the cumulative "mission creep" the fractures are becoming more pronounced at the bottom end. There is a growing disconnect between what the "haves" find to be reasonable and sustainable and what the "have nots" can manage. A blunt analogy is the notion of an even, sustained pressure placed upon a object with an uneven ability to bear said pressure. The danger however, is uniform as when the cookie crumbles, the entire cookie is lost, not just the weak parts.

I have used the term "great challenge" deliberately because getting the formula right is a challenge as opposed to a futile task. Our leadership must make every reasonable attempt to frame its individual decisions/directions taking into the broader context the impact of these decision on the whole entity. Good solutions are oft better than great solutions when "good" is uniformly accomplishable and "great" in practice falls short of universal implementation.

Ignoring mission creep and its real-world impact on the organization as a whole in the blind pursuit of ideals no matter how noble and merited can give rise to a Pyrrhic victory.

Pyrrhic victory The phrase comes from King Pyrrhus of Epirus, a Molossian general during the Hellenistic era (About 290 BC). His army, strapped with wooden spears and towering elephants, defeated the Romans at the Battle of Heraclea but lost too many lives and resources to continue their military campaign. To this day, a "Pyrrhic victory" is used to describe any victory won at too great a cost.

In our context, what could/does a phrrhic victory look like. Firstly I'd venture to say: "widespread disillusion" followed closely by "widespread apathy/indifference". In tanglible, concrete form this is muted communication bottom to top, non-complience or compliance only under threat of sanction as opposed to compliance out a sense of duty and enthusiasm. A sense of otherness at the bottom leading to resentment of "the top" being a co-symptom. As unyielding pressure continues to build, a caste system will entrench itself, growth will stagnate and ultimately, leaves will fall from the tree so-to-speak. The Darwinists amongst us will say, hec, the herd has been culled and is now healthy. In the short term perhaps, that will be so, but the original mission creep mindset and dynamic will not have gone away and the cycle will continue until the cannibalism finishes off all but an inbred elite. Hey, look gang time travel is possible, we are back in the early1980's.

Of course, I could be completely wrong about the whole thing and would like nothing more than to be wildly disproven. We shall see.

On Strategy Followed by Tactics

2011-02-27T09:54:00.000-08:00

Tactics and Strategy are often confused by folks with a series of ultimate consequences that can be quite devastating or rewarding if a fella gets it wrong or if he gets it right. It is a common occurance that many coaches, leaders and organizations have a general conception of where they would like to get, but fall seriously short of specifics when it comes to the "roadmap". They wind up digging through a bottomless pit of the latest and greatest tactical approaches year after year but to no lasting avail in terms of consistent on-field success.

Strategy is a formulation based on four basic questions: Who are we, where are we trying to go and what are the means and resources we are going to use to get there? At face value, this may seem like a set of questions with simple answers that are easy to arrive at ,but beware, if you get any of em wrong, the consequences for your endeavor are fatal. Fatal in the sense that you will not get where you want to be. When governments and armies get these questions wrong, lives are lost and whole generations within a population find their hopes, dreams and life's potential squandered. Businesses and private/public organizations fail with the predictable fallout for their various stakeholders and individuals suffer repeated frustrations that can kill hope or leave a person feeling like they are living in a perpetual state of failure.

The thing about a good strategy is that you can get the tactics wrong, but you are on the right course to make adjustments with them that will ultimately lead to success.  Conversely, if you have a bad strategy, you can have an outstanding tactical set, but will ultimately be doomed to failure.

As I have oft stated across the years in this blog, the mindset of an off-season is a debilitating mental posture that robs programs, coaches and players of their true potential greatness. A better time to look at this period between the last game and the first spring practice is to view it as "The Opportunity Season".

If I were having a conversation with myself at the start of my coaching carreer entering my first opportunity season, I'd start something like this:

Phase 1: Stabilizing ops: Collect, launder, repair inventory and properly stow your logistical set; ie. uniforms, equipment, field gear, PA, etc. Also include a thorough financial review of the year. Next, gain closure with your team/staff/parents etc. as rapidly as possible with a dinner/culminating gathering of sorts to reflect, acknowledge, thank and share fellowship. The next phase is data gathering: Survey players and coaches both formally and informally to gain a picture of their view. Next, the final data piece would be to breakdown all phases of the on-field game statistically to measure achievements and shortfalls. Consider phase one opportunity season complete.

Phase Two: Take your program and ink it. Ink every facet of your program on a piece of paper. Be brutally honest with yourself as to your current status. You must ink the material elements of your program, the human elements, player development, performance training, in school recruiting, fundraising, capital resources etc. All of it.

Phase Three: With data in hand, go back to your original four strategic questions and measure your progress towards those ends. Eliminate or re-orient any element of your program that is not aiming itself to your ultimate goal "Where are we going". This applies to your human resources as well! With your completed lists, apply the latin principle Macte Virtue which translates to Increase In Excellence. The translation is deeper than a slogan, it is literally a command. The importance of this approach cannot be overstated and it warrents an analogy as follows:

If you liken a program to a human body training to overcome an opponent in a physical and mental contest how would you train? Well, you would first define the nature of the contest and the tools you are going to need for the struggle (sound like strategy?). Now if you only focused on a percentage of the required tools you would eventually fall by the wayside when the untended parts of your toolkit are exposed during the course of the struggle. This exposure would likely take the form of a trained-up part of your body lacking support from the untended part at a crucial time. Kind of like a strong muscle pulling too hard on an undersized tendon or ligament.

What I am saying is that by knowing your program inside and out, with hard measurable data, you can then set the stage to build and execute a plan to get better everywhere. The end product is a program that I would liken materially to the strong shaft of a spear, propelled by the focused human energy and with the spear-tip being your players, properly equipped, trained and motivated playing at their best on game-day.

Phase 4: With your Macte Virtue tasks/goals defined, meet, organize and pursue them celebrating your successes and multi-tasking along the way. There is a great joy and satisfaction in building which is exactly what you and your organization are doing together.

A prediction: On the first snap of spring ball, you will know.

Looking around the high school football scene in the province of British Columbia I will venture to say that I see a variety of strategic mind-sets across the success scale. The best way to determine quality strategic approaches is to look for consistency. Even more specifically, consistent success in the context of school size and the resources at hand. Resources are a tricky thing to measure by. Remember, Japan until very recently had the world's second largest economy while having a dearth of natural resources. I digress.

Final Thoughts:  If you feel like you are underachieving, go back and look at your strategy within the framework of the beginning of this conversation. Get the first question right! Who are you? Really, really, really take stock of your human resources, where they come from, how they think and how this manifests itself. When you get this answered right, you can then begin to answer the other key strategic questions. Build it your way, in your context and have fun doing so!

As an aside, I'd love to hear BCSSFA communicate our collective strategy as an organization within this framework at the next AGM.  I think that a vast and previously untapped set of resources and harmony would emerge from the membership in short order propelling the game to new heights along the way.

A productive opportunity season to you all! The strength of my opponent is the strength of me.

GI

General George S. Patton and Football

2011-02-14T14:00:00.000-08:00

Below is a very good You-Tube presentation of George S. Patton Quotes. Most are outstanding. Many of these quotes can be applied to Coaching/Playing football. I encourage you folks to find one of the quotes that hits home and expand upon how it can be applied to football. The comments section ought to be interesting on this one!

Aim High!

2011-02-07T12:53:00.000-08:00

Boise State's 2011 Recruiting Class
Boise State is now a perrenial NCAA Top 10 contender, two time BCS bowler and is in the National Championship conversation for the past several years. Below is their 2011 recruiting class. One member of that class hails from BC. When you read the player bios, you get the sense that these are great young athletes. You also get the sense that what they have achieved is also attainable by BCSSFA athletes who go the extra mile day-in and day-out. Read through this list and ask yourself: "How Far Off Am I?" Aim for the stars fellas and you may just hit the moon or Boise State along the way!!

BOISE, Idaho – Boise State Football Head Coach Chris Petersen announced the signing of 19 student-athletes to National Letters of Intent Wednesday, headlined by 18 highly-accomplished high school seniors and an All-American junior college transfer.
In addition to landing three prep standouts from the Gem State, the Broncos’ class also includes eight high school student-athletes from California, four from Texas and one each from Washington, Oregon and British Columbia.
The lone transfer in this year’s class, junior nickel Dextrell Simmons (Houston, Texas) joins the Broncos from Blinn Junior College, where he helped lead the Buccaneers to the 2009 National Junior College Athletic Association Championship.
When broken down by position, the Broncos signed most of their class in the trenches – adding three along both the offensive and defensive lines. Boise State added multiple student-athletes in the defensive backfield (four), at nickel (two) and at linebacker (two), and also signed one each at quarterback, running back, wide receiver, tight end and kicker.
The Broncos are coming off of a 12-1 campaign and finished the season ranked in the top 10 in both the USA Today Coaches’ Poll (No. 7) and the Associated Press Media Poll (No. 9). Boise State defeated Utah 26-3 in MAACO Bowl Las Vegas, the team’s ninth-straight bowl game.
Boise State also completed an unprecedented run in the Western Athletic Conference, winning a share of the conference title for the eighth time in the last nine seasons. Boise State, which will move to the Mountain West Conference in 2011, went 75-5 (.938) during its 10 seasons in the WAC, including a perfect 40-0 mark at home.
The Broncos are scheduled to open the 2011 season against Georgia (Sept. 3), in the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Classic at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta. Kickoff is scheduled for 6 p.m. (MT), and the game will be televised nationally on either ESPN or ABC.
A complete list of Boise State’s 2011 recruiting class follows, including brief biographical information on each signee:
Eric Agbaroji, Defensive Back, 6-1, 195, Fr., Midlothian, Texas (Midlothian HS)
Was a three-time varsity football letter winner at Midlothian High School in Midlothian, Texas…Named first-team all-conference as a senior…Also voted honorable mention all-conference as a junior and second team all-conference as a sophomore…Named to The Old Coach All-Area First Team and All-State Second Team…Recorded 30 tackles, 12 pass break-ups, three field goal blocks and one interception in 2010…Tallied 40 tackles in both his sophomore and junior seasons…Also recorded 13 pass break-ups and one interception as a junior…Earned two varsity letters in track and field…Won 400-meter district championship as a sophomore…High school coach was Lee Wiggington.
Jay Ajayi, Running Back, 6-0, 208, Fr., Plano, Texas (Frisco Liberty HS)
Named second-team all-state as a senior at Frisco Liberty High School in Plano, Texas…Earned two varsity letters in football at Frisco Liberty HS…Voted first-team all-conference as a junior and senior…Selected to the All-Collin County Team while being named Collin County Player of the Year…Recorded 225 carries for 2,240 rushing yards and 35 touchdowns as a senior…Also caught seven passes for 67 yards and one score in 2010…As a junior, tallied 209 carries for 1,627 rushing yards and 20 touchdowns…Caught 12 passes for 79 yards as a junior...Earned one varsity letter in track and field…Member of 4x400-meter, 4x200m and 4x100m district championship teams…Also a member of The National Society of High School Scholars…High school coach was Galen Zimmerman.
Robert Ash, Defensive Lineman, 6-3, 262, Fr., Elk Grove, Calif. (Cosumnes Oaks HS)
Was a two-time first-team all-conference selection in football at Cosumnes Oaks High School in Elk Grove, Calif…Named a varsity team captain as both a junior and senior…Also named second-team Sac-County in 2010…Finished senior season with 41 tackles - 35 of which were solo…Also recorded 10 sacks for minus-83 yards, while forcing two fumbles and blocking one field goal…earned a varsity basketball letter as a junior…Received the Wolf Pack Award…High school coach was Ryan Gomes.
Corey Bell, Nickel, 5-11, 200, Fr., Boise, Idaho (Capital HS)
Earned three varsity football letters at Capital High School in Boise…Voted first-team all-state as a senior…Named Southern Idaho Conference Player of the Year in 2010…second-team all-conference as a junior…Played in the Idaho East-West Shriners All-Star game as a senior…Finished senior season with 44 tackles, 12 tackles-for-loss, three sacks and three interceptions - one of which was returned for a touchdown…carried the football 138 times for 915 yards and 14 touchdowns…Caught 22 passes for 289 yards and 11 touchdowns…As a junior, recorded 50 tackles, nine TFLs, three interceptions and two forced fumbles…Finished his sophomore season with 45 tackles, six TFLs, three interceptions and three fumble recoveries…Also earned one varsity letter in basketball…Earned Academic All-Conference as a sophomore, junior and senior…High school coach was Todd Simis.
Dallas Burroughs, Wide Receiver, 5-9, 170, Fr., Meridian, Idaho (Rocky Mountain HS)
A first-team all-state selection at Rocky Mountain High School in Meridian, where he earned three varsity football letters…Also named first-team All-Southern Idaho Conference as a senior…Voted second-team all-conference as a junior…Finished senior season with 75 receptions for 1,358 yard and 14 touchdowns…Also carried the football 20 times for 304 yards and two scores…Received two varsity letters in both track and field and baseball…Won the 100-meter state championship as a junior…High school coach was Jason Warr.
Marcus Henry, Offensive Lineman, 6-2, 280, Fr., Bellevue, Wash. (Bellevue HS)
A four-year varsity letterwinner at Bellevue High School in Bellevue, Wash…Named first-team all-state as a senior…Selected Kingco Conference Lineman of the Year as a senior after being voted first-team All-Kingco on both offense and defense…Named second-team all-conference as a junior…Voted preseason all-state as a senior…Helped team to 3A State Championships in 2009 and 2010…High school coach was Butch Goncharoff.
Lee Hightower, Defensive Back, 6-1, 170, Fr., Inglewood, Calif. (Loyola HS)
A two-year letterwinner at Loyola High School in Los Angeles…Named second-team All-Serra League as a senior…Capped his prep campaign with 40 tackles, 18 pass break-ups two forced fumbles and an interception…Garnered Daily News All-Star recognition…Junior season recorded 50 tackles, 12 pass break-ups and four forced fumbles…Was also a four-year letterwinner in track and field, finishing as the CIF runner-up both his sophomore and junior seasons…member of the Honor Roll, was both a California Scholar and a National Merit Achievement Scholar…High school football coach was Mike Christensen.
Rees Odhiambo, Offensive Lineman, 6-4, 296, Fr., Mansfield, Texas (Mansfield Legacy HS)
Earned two varsity football letters at Mansfield Legacy High School in Mansfield, Texas…Named second-team all-conference as a senior and honorable mention all-conference as a junior…Recorded 26 knockdowns and 14 pancakes, while only allowing one sack as a senior…Tallied 10 knockdowns and four pancakes as a junior…Also recorded 10 tackles and one tackle-for-loss at nose guard as a junior…Academic All-District as a junior and senior…Earned one varsity letter in track and field…Received the Teacher’s Choice Award…High school coach was Chris Melson.
Jimmy Laughrea, Quarterback, 6-2, 197, Fr., Rocklin, Calif. (Rocklin HS)
A three-time varsity football letterwinner at Rocklin High School in Rocklin, Calif…Voted first-team All-Sierra Foothill League as a senior…Also named first-team all-metro and all-city as a senior…Selected second-team all-conference as a junior…Completed 60 percent of his passes for 2,527 yards and 22 touchdown throws as a senior…Also tallied 327 rushing yards and six rushing scores in 2010…As a junior, completed 54.7 percent of his passes for 2,635 passing yards and 22 touchdowns, while also rushing for six touchdowns…Threw for 1,522 passing yards as a sophomore…High school coach was Greg Benzel.
Taylor Loffler, Safety, 6-4, 200, Kelowna, British Columbia (Kelowna Secondary School)
Named the 2010 British Columbia High School Most Valuable Player as a senior at Kelowna Secondary School in Kelowna, British Columbia…A first-team all-conference selection as a junior and senior…Recorded 88 tackles and four interceptions in his final prep campaign…Also completed 97-of-165 passes for 1,732 passing yards, 20 touchdowns and just seven interceptions in 2010…Tallied 814 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns on 86 carries as a senior…Scored two punt return touchdowns and three kick return touchdowns in final high school season…As a junior, recorded 67 tackles and three interceptions…Also completed 62 passes for 879 passing yards and 19 touchdowns to go along with 741 rushing yards and 20 touchdowns on 97 carries in 2009…Grabbed seven interceptions as a sophomore…Also completed 5-of-12 passes for 123 yards and a touchdown as a backup quarterback in 2008…Returned one kickoff return for touchdown as a sophomore…Was a three-year team captain in football…Was also a starter on the varsity basketball team as a sophomore, junior and senior…High school coach was Roy Anderson.

Dillon Lukehart, Linebacker, 6-0, 200, Fr., Eagle, Idaho (Eagle HS)
Earned three varsity football letters at Eagle High School in Eagle, Idaho…Named first-team all-state as a running back and defensive back in 2010…Voted Southern Idaho Conference Offensive Player of the Year as a senior…Also named first-team all-conference on defense as a senior…Selected second-team All-SIC as a junior…Finished senior season with 1,824 rushing yards and 26 touchdowns, while also recording 106 tackles on defense…As a junior, tallied 1,049 rushing yards and 20 touchdowns…Scored four touchdowns and rushed for 428 yards as a sophomore…Earned two varsity letters in track and field and one in basketball…Named Eagle HS Athlete of the Year…Member of National Honor Society…High school coach was Paul Peterson.

Hayden Plinke, Tight End, 6-4, 230, Fr., Hillsboro, Ore. (Glencoe HS)

An honorable mention all-state performer as a senior at Glencoe High School in Hillsboro, Ore…Also named first-team all-conference as a senior and second-team all-conference as a junior…Earned two varsity letters in football at Glencoe HS…Rushed for 251 yards to average 11.5 per-carry as a senior…Also caught 31 passes for 457 receiving yards in 2010…Scored five touchdowns as a senior…Recorded five touchdowns as a junior, including a three-touchdown performance in one game…Tallied eight sacks at defensive end as a junior…Received three varsity letters in track and field and one in basketball…Won the state javelin title as a junior…Voted Student Body President…High school coach was Tim Duvall.

Blake Renaud, Linebacker, 6-2, 235, Fr., Concord, Calif. (De La Salle HS)

A three-year varsity letterwinner in football at De La Salle High School in Concord, Calif….Voted first-team All-East Bay Athletic League as a junior and senior at linebacker…Named second-team all-league as a sophomore...Was a team captain during senior season…Named to the Cal-Hi Section Sports All-State Seniors First Team in 2011…Also named first-team All-Metro by the San Francisco Chronicle…Selected to the ESPNU 150 Class of 2011 Watch List…Voted ESPN Cal-Hi Sports All-State First Team in 2010…In 2009 named Max Preps Junior Class All-American Second Team…Voted East Bay Defensive Player of the Year by the Contra Costa Times in 2009…As a junior named first-team All-EBAL and first-team All-Bay Area by the San Francisco Chronicle…Selected Cal-Hi Sports All-State Sophomore Team in 2008…High school coach was Bob Ladouceur.

Adam Sheffield, Offensive Lineman, 6-4, 300, Fr., San Jose, Calif. (Branham HS)

Earned three varsity letters in football and two in basketball at Branham High School in San Jose, Calif…Named first-team all-state as a senior…Selected first-team all-conference as a senior and second-team all-conference as a junior…Named first-team all-state by Cal-Hi Sports and first-team All-NorCal by California Golden Preps as a senior…Also named first-team California Central Coast Section by NorCal Preps…Selected as a team captain as a senior…High school coach was Justin Halas.

Dextrell Simmons, Nickel, 5-10, 205, Jr., Houston, Texas (Blinn JC)

Transfers to Boise State after two standout seasons playing linebacker at Blinn Junior College in Brenham, Texas…Member of Blinn JC team that won the 2009 National Junior College Athletic Association Championship…Recorded 57 tackles, nine tackles-for-loss, two sacks, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery as a sophomore…Finished freshman season with three sacks and two interceptions, including one interception return for touchdown, in limited action…Voted first-team all-conference and honorable mention NJCAA All-America as a sophomore…Was a defensive captain for the Buccaneers…Member of Blinn Leadership Council for two years…Helped lead Blinn JC to a No. 10 national ranking to end 2010…Junior college head coach was Brad Franchione.

Darian Thompson, Defensive Back, 6-1, 180, Fr., Lancaster, Calif. (Paraclete HS)

Comes to Boise State following a standout senior season at Paraclete High School in Lancaster, Calif…Named All-CIF and All-Valley Defensive Most Valuable Player in 2010...Also voted All-CIF, all-valley and all-league at defensive back as a senior…Finished 2010 with 74 tackles (35 solo), seven interceptions, eight knockdowns and two interception returns for touchdown…Also caught 52 passes for 953 yards and 13 touchdowns at wide receiver, all school single-season records…Returned seven punts for 179 yards and five kickoffs for 94 yards…Finished junior season with 40 tackles, four interceptions and four pass deflections, garnering second-team all-league accolades…Also caught 12 passes for 205 yards as a junior…Recorded 38 tackles, four pass break-ups and one interception as a sophomore…Earned two varsity letters for baseball…High school coach was Norm Dahlia.

Samuel Ukwuachu, Defensive End, 6-5, 210, Fr., Pearland, Texas (Pearland High School)

A three-year varsity letterwinner in football at Pearland High School in Pearland, Texas…Team won the Texas 5A Division I State Championship in 2010…Was voted second-team all-state as a junior and senior…Also named first-team all-conference as a junior and senior…Received the team’s defensive most valuable player award following his senior season…Selected second-team all-conference as a sophomore…Tabbed as a first-team all-district honoree on defense and second-team all-district on offense…Finished senior season with 70 tackles and 10 sacks…Also caught 16 passes for 328 yards and five touchdowns…Recorded 34 tackles, four sacks and one interception as a junior…caught five passes for 122 yards and two touchdowns as a junior…High school coach was Tony Heath.

Jake Van Ginkel, Place Kicker, 6-0, 175, Fr., Upland, Calif. (Upland HS)

Enjoyed an illustrious career as place kicker at Upland High School in Upland, Calif., where he set the California high school state record for career field goals (39)...Named first-team All-Baseline League as a senior…Also named MaxPreps All-America in 2010…Selected first-team all-state by MaxPreps, Golden State Preps and Cal-Hi Sports as a junior…Also picked to the 2009 ESPN Junior All-America Team…Named first-team sophomore all-state by Golden State Preps and Cal-Hi Sports, as well as sophomore All-America by EA Sports/ESPN in 2008…Scored 87 points on 14 field goals and 45 successful point after tries as a senior…Also recorded 47 touchbacks in 2010…Scored 88 points on 16 field goals and 40 PATs as a junior…Recorded 48 touchbacks as a junior…Converted 63 PATs and nine field goals for 90 points as a sophomore…Also recorded 54 touchbacks in 2008…As a freshman, connected on three field goals of more than 50 yards, with a long of 58 yards…High school coach was Tim Salter.

Jeffrey Worthy, Defensive Tackle, 6-4, 285, Fr., La Mirada, Calif. (Whittier Christian HS; La Habra, Calif.)

A four-year varsity letterwinner in football at Whittier Christian High School in La Habra, Calif…Named team captain during senior season…Selected first-team all-state as a junior and senior…Also voted first-team all-conference as a junior and senior…Finished 2010 season with 79 tackles, 10 sacks, two forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries…Team finished runner-up for the CIF Southern Section / Division 10 Championship in 2010…Recorded 137 tackles, 19 sacks, four forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries as a junior…Received two varsity letters for basketball…High school coach was Sergio Gradilla.

2010 GREYSHIRTS

Tyler Horn, Defensive End, 6-4, 255, Fr., Meridian, Idaho (Mountain View HS)

Signed with Boise State in February, 2010, and greyshirted last season…Received first-team all-state and all-conference honors on defense as a senior at Mountain View High School in Meridian, Idaho…Also named honorable mention all-state and all-conference as a junior…As a senior, recorded 50 tackles, 14 sacks, five forced fumbles, four fumble recoveries and three pass deflections…Also recorded more than 100 yards on tackles-for-loss as a senior…Tallied 45 tackles and 11 sacks as a junior…Named Conference Defensive Player of the Year…Awarded the Idaho Lineman Challenge MVP…Boise State football camp defensive line MVP in 2009…Also earned varsity letters in track and field (three) and basketball (one)…High school coach was Judd Benedick.

Holden Huff, Tight End, 6-6, 205, Fr., Rocklin, Calif. (Rocklin HS)

Signed with Boise State in February, 2010, and greyshirted last season…Honored as a first-team all-conference and all-section tight end as a senior at Rocklin High School in Rocklin, Calif…Named 2009 Conference Playmaker of the Year…Also named first-team all-conference wide receiver as a junior, and 2008 Conference Special Teams Player of the Year…Holds several Rocklin HS records, including single-season receiving yards (989), career receiving yards (1,664), single-season touchdown receptions (10) and career touchdown receptions (16)…Helped lead Rocklin HS to a Sierra Football League Championship, as well as a Sac-Joaquin Section title…Also lettered in track and field…High jumped 6-2 and threw the shot put 47-0…High school coach was Greg Benzel.

Troy Ware, Wide Receiver, 6-2, 185, Fr., Oceanside, Calif. (Vista HS)

Signed with Boise State in February, 2010, and greyshirted last season…Received second-team all-state honors as a senior wide receiver at Vista High School in Vista, Calif…Voted first-team All-Palomar League as a senior, as well as second-team all-league his junior senior…As a senior, recorded 45 receptions for 699 yards and eight touchdowns…Caught 26 passes for 482 yards and four scores in his junior season…As a sophomore, grabbed seven catches for 103 yards and two touchdowns…Named All-North County…Honored on the All-Academic Team as a junior and senior…Earned varsity letters in track and field three times…Was an all-league performer in the long jump as a sophomore and junior…Named to the Vista HS Honor Roll as a junior and senior…High school coach was Dan Williams.

Jay Prepchuk Quarterback Camp Nanaimo

2011-02-04T12:30:00.000-08:00

JAY PREPCHUK
NANAIMO QUARTERBACK CAMP

SUNDAY, APRIL 10, 2011

BARSBY SECONDARY SCHOOL

Camp Schedule

10:45 Registration *Bring your own cleats, football and lunch. T-shirt included.

11:00 Introductions

11:15 Instruction Tape

12:00 Warm up. Drills

1:15 Lunch (Bring your own lunch. We will be meeting while you eat)

Video analysis. Discussion on academics and Post Secondary requirements

2:00 Instruction tape

2:30 Warm up. Drills

4:15 Conclusion

Topics Covered:

Throwing Mechanics Footwork

1,2,3 and 5 step Drops Reading Defenses

Play Action Pass Running the Option

Throwing on the Run Hot Passing game

Ball Handling / Faking

--------------Detach this portion-------------------------

To register for the NANAIMO 2011 camp:

Complete the following registration form and mail with $100.00 registration fee to:

JAY PREPCHUK #301-3371 Chesterfield Ave. N.Vancouver, B.C V7N 3N2

Please make cheque payable to: Jay Prepchuk

Athlete’s Name: __________________________________________________________

School / Community Program ___________________________Coach ______________

Address: ________________________________________________________________

City: ___________________________________Postal Code: _____________________

**E-mail: _______________________________________________________________

Daytime telephone: _______________________Entering Grade (Sept /11) __________

T-Shirt size: XSmall___ Small____ Med_____ Large____ X-Large____ XX-Large___

My son / daughter has permission to attend the Jay Prepchuk Quarterback Camp. I will be responsible for any medical or other charges in connection with his / her attendance at this camp.

Parent’s Signature: ________________________________________________________

PLEASE E-MAIL / PHONE IF YOU ARE ATTENDING jprepchuk@nvsd44.bc.ca or 604-803-2473

Football School Numbers 2010

2011-01-20T10:06:00.001-08:00

Football Schools 2010

Number of Boys G. 11/12

Kelowna 568

Rutland 546

New Westminster 533

Belmont 485

Centennial 469

Terry Fox 458

Pinetree 414

W.J. Mowat 409

Prince George 393

Earl Marriot 392

Eric Hamber 387

West Vancouver 367

G.P. Vanier 347

Salmon Arm 345

Langley 341

Lord Tweedsmuir 337

Mt. Douglas 334

Mount Baker 320

Pentiction 316

Carson Graham 315

Vancouver College 314

Correlieu 314

Alberni District 308

South Kamloops 295

Seaquam 293

NorKam 292

Moscrop 287

Howe Sound 284

Robert Bateman 283

Handsworth 281

Abbottsford Collegiate 280

Frank Hurt 270

South Delta 261

Nanaimo District 254

Ballenas 248

Pitt Meadows 247

Kelly Road 244

Rick Hansen 237

Samuel Robertson Tech. 234

Timberline 225

Vernon 221

Okanagen Mission 213

Clarence Fulton 199

Mark Isfeld 197

College Heights 192

Dutchess Park 191

Mission 186

Windsor 184

Valleyview 180

W.L. Seaton 180

Hugh Boyd 174

Edward Milne 174

Sands 163

Westsyde 147

Gulf Islands 146

Kalmalka 146

Nechako Valley 144

Holy Cross 135

John Barsby 128

St. Thomas More 122

Notre Dame 103

Merry Christmas One and All!

2010-12-23T10:22:00.000-08:00

BC High School Football

Peace Be Un To You All 

Season's Greetings from GI to you and yours!

AA Varsity Championship

2010-12-02T23:45:00.001-08:00

GI's Pick: Barsby wins this one.