ETBU Players Honored

A couple of East Texas Baptist University basketball players are rewarded for their strong play last week.

Senior forward Chris Isom of was named the American Southwest Conference East Division Player of the Week. The guard scored 29 points with 17 rebounds in the Tigers’ 80-77 overtime win over Louisiana College Thursday night. All 29 points came in the final 34 minutes of the contest, which enabled ETBU to stay clinging to life in the race for the fourth and final playoff spot from the ASC East. Isom came back on Saturday to score 17 points with 10 rebounds in ETBU’s loss to 4th-ranked Mississippi College.

Sophomore forward Mary Slaughter was named American Southwest Conference East Division Co-Player of the Week with Texas-Dallas’ Ericka Baker. Slaughter, a 6-0 forward from Athens, La., averaged 18.5 points and 9.5 rebounds last week as the Lady Tigers (18-4, 14-3 ASC) creep closer to their first outright ASC East Division championship since the 1999-2000 season. Slaughter, who was last season’s ASC East Freshman of the Year, scored 21 points and grabbed nine rebounds in ETBU’s 85-72 win over Mississippi College on Saturday to help ETBU clinch the top seed from the ASC East in the conference tournament later this month. On Thursday in a win over Louisiana College, Slaughter scored 16 points in just 26 minutes to go along with nine boards.

NFL Tells Fans: Skip Church, Go To A Bar Instead

Don't get me wrong here. I love football. I love playing football. I love watching football. I also plan to host my own Super Bowl party. But, I am starting to sour a little on the powers that be who run the NFL.

The NFL sent a letter to a church in Indianapolis last week warning of infractions if they went ahead with their plans to host a Super Bowl party to support the Colts. Dr. John Newland of Fall Creek Baptist Church says his church was planning to play games, have snacks, and watch the game on a projection screen. They also planned to charge an entry fee for the game.

Now if the league was just trying to put an end to the church charging admission, I would not have a problem with this story. But even after the church agreed to drop the admission fee, the NFL still balked. According to league rule, it prohibits mass out-of-home viewing of the Super Bowl except at bars and other businesses that show televised sports as part of their everyday operations.

Let me get this straight. The NFL is saying it is OK to go to a bar, where people are drinking and smoking and I'll bet yelling and cussing at the TV screen, but it's NOT OK to go to church?

For years, we've heard the mocking term "NFL stands for No Fun League", but I think this takes that to a whole new level.

The church says it certainly plans to comply, and was not clear if they will party at all.

HOWEVER, according to WRTV Channel 6 in Indianapolis, the Second Baptist Church in Indianapolis WILL proceed with its plans to show the game, using a rear-projection TV screen, even though the NFL says they aren't allowed to show the Super Bowl on a TV larger than 55 inches.

Rev. David Greene said, "the NFL implied it has a problem with the venue and medium that local churches conduct ministry. We want to save souls by any means necessary. Football, traditional service, street ministry -- it doesn't matter."

The NFL backpedaled a bit today, saying the NFL "has absolutely no objection to churches and others hosting Super Bowl viewing parties as long as they do not charge admission and show the game on a television of the type commonly used at home."

Just in case you are interested, you can contact the NFL at 280 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10017. (212) 450-2000.

TSWA 5A All-State Team

BRYAN, Texas (AP) - Southlake Carroll quarterback Riley Dodge and Cedar Hill linebacker Chris Francis have been named the offensive and defensive players of the year on the Texas Sports Writers Association's Class 5A all-state football team. The 180-pound Dodge, a junior, threw for 4,184 yards with 54 touchdowns. The 210-pound Francis, a senior, had 210 tackles.
Cedar Hill's Joey McGuire was named coach of the year.
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FIRST TEAM
Offense
Guards - Manaaki Vaitai, Euless Trinity, 6-3, 299, Sr., and Josh LeRibeus, Richardson Berkner, 6-4, 345, Sr.
Tackles - Robert HIll, Southlake Carroll, 6-3, 265, Sr., and Tray Allen, South Grand Prairie, 6-5, 305, Sr.
Center - Grant Garner, North Mesquite, 6-3, 260, Sr.
Wide receivers - Blake Cantu, Southlake Carroll, 6-1, 190, Jr., and Dez Bryant, Lufkin, 6-2, 205, Sr.
Tight end - Stephen Shaffer, Austin Westlake, 6-3, 235, Sr.
Quarterback - Riley Dodge, Southlake Carroll, 6-0, 180, Jr.
Running backs - Bradley Stephens, McAllen Memorial, 5-11, 200, Sr.; Tre'Newton, Southlake Carroll, 6-1, 195, Jr.; and (tie) Marcus Wright, SA Reagan, 5-7, 175, Jr., and Foswhitt Whittaker, Pearland, 5-9, 170, Sr.
Placekicker - Travis Constanzo, Smithson Valley, 6-3, 175, Sr.
Defense
Linemen - Marcus Jones, North Shore, 5-11, 235, Sr.; Marquis Frazier, Garland, 6-4, 265, Sr.; Youri Yenga, Euless Trinity, 6-2, 210, Sr.; and (tie) Garrison Hardin, Abilene, 6-1, 245, Sr., and
Russell Carter, Houston Westbury, 6-3, 230, Sr. Linebackers - Chris Francis, Cedar Hill, 6-0, 210, Sr.; Marcus Richardson, Seguin, 6-1, 215, Sr.; Kennan Robinson, Plano East, 6-3, 215, Sr.; Justin Padron, Southlake Carroll, 6-0, 220, Sr.
Secondary - Malcolm Williams, Garland, 6-3, 205, Sr.; Terrence Byrd, Katy Taylor, 5-10, 162, Sr.; Taylor Hightower, Colleyville Heritage, 5-11, 165, Jr.; Eric Eiland, Houston Lamar, 6-1, 193, Sr.
Punter - Casey Russell, Colleyville Heritage, 6-2, 215, Sr.
Kick returner - Desmond Jackson, Seguin, 6-1, 190, Sr.
Offensive player of the year - Riley Dodge, Southlake Carroll, 6-0, 180, Jr.
Defensive player of the year - Chris Francis, Cedar Hill, 6-0, 210, Sr.
Coach of the year - Joey McGuire, Cedar Hill.
SECOND TEAM
Offense
Guards - Greg Bulls, Lubbock Monterey, 6-3, 285, Sr., and Jake Morrow, Cedar Park, 6-3, 240, Jr.
Tackles - Evan Eike, Bryan, 6-4, 315, Sr., and John Jones, Cedar Hill, 6-5, 295, Sr.
Center - Danny Baker, FB Elkins, 6-5, 301, Sr.
Wide receivers - Alonzo Adams, Houston Westside, 6-0, 185, Sr., and Juan Camacho, Laredo United, 5-9, 175, Sr.
Tight end - Tyler Fleet, Tyler Lee, 6-2, 225, Sr.
Quarterback - William Cole, Cedar Hill, 6-0, 175, Sr.
Running backs - Sam McGuffie, Cy-Fair, 5-10, 175, Jr.; Johnathan Craig, SA MacArthur, 5-10, 185, Sr.; Juan Martinez, La Joya, 5-11, 215, Sr.
Placekicker - Daniel Hernandez, Dallas Molina, 5-9, 185, Sr.
Defense
Linemen - Kyle Russo, Southlake Carroll, 6-4, 245, Sr.; Ben Bass, Plano West, 6-4, 260, Sr.; Logan Johnson, Seguin, 6-0, 215, Sr.; and Matt Pfister, Smithson Valley, 6-0, 190, Sr.
Linebackers - Justin Allen, Cedar Park, 6-0, 210, Sr.; Matt Howe, Colleyville Heritage, 6-4, 215, Sr.; Cory Houston, Houston Westside, 6-0, 220, Sr.; De'Arrius Jones, Dallas Carter, 5-10, 180,
Sr.
Secondary - Desmond Jackson, Seguin, 6-1, 190, Sr.; Marc Kinney, SA MacArthur, 6-1, 190, Sr.; Anthony Blue, Cedar Hill, 6-0, 175, Sr.; Sherman Rosborough, Longview, 5-9. 165, Sr.
Punter - Kevin Perez, EP Hanks, 5-9, 160, Sr.
Kick returner - Cyrus Gray, DeSoto, 5-11, 190, Jr.
THIRD TEAM
Offense
Guards - Carlos Cuevas, Plano, 6-2, 316, Sr., and Gordon Booker, Longview, 6-0, 305, Sr.
Tackles - Ryan Britt, Colleyville Heritage, 6-4, 285, Sr., and (tie) Blake Emert, Garland Sachse, 6-5, 275, Sr., and Marquis Franklin, Tyler John Tyler, 6-5, 325, Sr.
Center - James Fry, Smithson Valley, 6-4, 270, Jr.
Wide receivers - Evan Walker, Colleyville Heritage, 5-11, 185, Sr., and (tie) Malcolm Williams, Garland, 6-3, 205, Sr., and Breece Johnson, Colleyville Heritage, 6-2, 175, Sr.
Tight end - Alex Russian Round Rock, 6-5, 230, Sr.
Quarterback - Nathan Dick, Allen, 6-4, 200, Sr.
Running backs - Cyrus Gray, DeSoto, 5-11, 190, Jr.; Dewayne Stewart, Spring Westfield, 5-11, 195, Sr.; and Horace Gibson, Klein, 5-9, 185, Sr.
Placekicker - Shea Brewster, A&M Consolidated, 6-0, 150, Sr.
Defense
Linemen - Joey Nunez, San Benito, 6-2, 230, Sr.; Randall Murphy, Lufkin, 6-0, 250, Sr.; Tyler Crane, Allen, 6-2, 210, Sr.; and Spencer Canole, Flower Mound Marcus, 6-4, 220, Sr.
Linebackers - Drew Dudley, A&M Consolidated, 6-2, 220, Sr.; Derrick Stephens, Cypress Falls, 6-3, 220, Sr.; Jacody Coleman, Beaumont West Brook, 6-2, 245, Sr.; and (tie) Justin Springer, Los Fresnos, 6-4, 220, Sr., and Max Blue, Hebron, 6-0, 202, Sr.
Secondary - Cody Gambill, Allen, 5-10, 185, Sr.; Nicholas Saenz, Pearland, 5-11, 155, Jr.; Tekerrein Cuba, Tyler Lee, 6-3, 185, Sr.; and (tie) Richard Havins, Round Rock Westwood, 5-11, 189, Sr., and Josh Green, San Marcos, 5-11, 185, Sr.
Punter - (tie) Jonathan Lacour, Kingwood, 6-1, 180, Sr., and
Justin Putnam, Round Rock Westwood, 6-0, 172, Sr.
Kick returner - Michael Fuda, Katy, 6-0, 175, Sr.

TSWA 4A All-State Team

BRYAN, Texas (AP) - Texarkana quarterback Ryan Mallett and El Paso Andress defensive lineman Andre Jones have been named the offensive and defensive players of the year on the Texas Sports Writers Association's Class 4A all-state football team. The 256-pound Mallett threw for 3,173 yards with 30 touchdowns. The 295-pound Jones had 82 tackles and 16 quarterback pressures. Both are seniors. San Antonio Alamo Heights' Don Byrd was named coach of the year.
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FIRST TEAM
Offense
Guards - Michael Huey, Kilgore, 6-5, 290, Sr., and Kelly Turner, Highland Park, 6-3, 260, Sr.
Tackles - Kyle Hix, Aledo, 6-7, 315, Sr., and Jarvis Jones, Lamar Consolidated, 6-7, 250, Sr.
Center - Jason Hannan, Waxahachie, 6-4, 277, Sr.
Wide receivers - Jesse Hodge, Springtown, 5-10, 160, Sr., and Sam Dibrell, SA Alamo Heights, 6-2, 200, Sr.
Tight end - Melvin Dudley, Nacogoches, 6-4, 215, Sr.
Quarterback - Ryan Mallett, Texarkana Texas, 6-7, 256, Sr.
Running backs - Michael Connor, Frenship, 6-0, 190, Jr.; J.J.
Johnson, Schertz Clemens, 5-9, 180, Sr.; and (tie) Evan Hearn, Plainview, 5-11, 175, Sr., and Antowoine Smith, Paris North Lamar, 5-7, 170, Sr.
Placekicker - Justin Shaughnessy, Waco Midway, 6-3, 175, Sr.
Defense
Linemen - B.J. Bradley, Schertz Clemens, 6-3, 220 Sr.; Andre Jones, EP Andress, 6-5, 295, Sr.; Richetti Jones, Dallas Lincoln, Sr.; Michael Wilcoxon, Aledo, 6-3, 295, Sr.
Linebackers - Tanner Brock, Copperas Cove, 6-2, 192, Soph.; Leonard Dynes, La Marque, 5-11, 225, Sr.; Eric Edwards, Stephenville, 5-10, 210, Sr.; Nathan Uland, Denton Ryan, 5-11, 215,
Sr.
Secondary - James Thomas, La Marque, 6-1, 185, Sr.; Cody Davis, Stephenville, 6-2, 195, Jr.; Ben Wells, Beaumont Ozen, Sr.; and Moses Ellis, Everman, 5-10, 170, Sr.
Punter - Erick Fox, Edcouch-Elsa, Sr.
Kick returner - Lee Orr, El Campo, 6-3, 200, Sr.
Offensive player of the year - Ryan Mallett, Texarkana Texas, 6-7, 256, Sr.
Defensive player of the year - Andre Jones, EP Andress, 6-5, 295, Sr.
Coach of the Year - Don Byrd, SA Alamo Heights
SECOND TEAM
Offense
Guards - Byron Bell, Greenville, 6-5, 275, Sr., and Courtney Green, Corsicana, 6-4, 290, Sr.
Tackles - Aundre McGaskey, La Marque, 6-5, 275, Sr., and Michael Ray, La Marque, 6-4, 250, Sr.
Center - Zach Lambert, Hays, 6-0, 265, Sr.
Wide receivers - (tie) Seth Bauman, Lindale, 6-1, 175, Sr.; Brandon Collins, Brenham, 6-0, 170, Sr.; and Joseph Florence, La Marque, 6-4, 195, Sr.
Tight end - Daniel South, Montgomery, 6-3, 190, Sr.
Quarterback - Giovanni Vizza, San Antonio Alamo Heights, 6-1, 195, Sr.
Running backs - Alex Carroll, Highland Park, 6-1, 195, Sr.; and (tie) Colton Johnson, Waller, 6-0, 240, Sr., and Jacquizz Rodgers, Lamar Consolidated, 5-6, 165, Jr.; and Damien Washington, Wichita Falls Rider, 5-11, 185, Jr.
Placekicker - Ross Evans, Burnet, 5-9, 150, Jr.
Defense
Linemen - Tyrell Higgins, Schertz Clemens, 6-4, 265, Sr.; Marcel Owens, Houston Yates, 6-2, 215, Sr.; Aaron Wampler, Frenship, 6-2, 225, Jr.; Patrick Dorsey, Houston Yates, 6-1, 275, Sr.
Linebackers - Sam Ellis, Schertz Clemens, 6-0, 210, Sr.; Perron Sellers, La Marque, 6-0, 190, Sr.; Kenny Alexander, McKinney North, 6-2, 215, Sr.; Kyle Mangan, Brenham, 6-2, 220, Jr.
Secondary - Anthony Brown, Rosenberg Terry, 5-11, 180, Jr.; Jeramie Marek, Calallen, 5-9, 165, Jr.; Jamell Fleming, Arlington Seguin, 5-10, 187, Sr. and Jerimiah Alexander, Houston Yates, 5-10, 175, Jr.
Punter - Anson Kelton, Aledo, 6-3, 257, Sr.
Kick returner - V.J. McElroy, Uvalde, 6-0, 190, Sr.
THIRD TEAM
Offense
Guards - Jonathan Rush, Killeen, 6-5, 285, Sr., and Corey Smithers, Copperas Cove, 6-0, 245, Sr.
Tackles - Spencer Thompson, Plainview, 6-3, 270, Sr., and Casey Bates, Wichita Falls Rider, 6-6, 235, Sr.
Center - Adam Brock, Marshall, 6-0, 230, Sr.
Wide receivers - Joe Anderson, Texarkana Texas, 6-1, 194, Sr., and Omarius Hines, Corsicana, 6-2, 190, Jr.
Tight end - Logan Brock, Copperas Cove, 6-3, 235, Sr.
Quarterback - Michael Foran, EP Chapin, 6-3, 205, Sr.; Jarrett Lee, Brenham, 6-3, 204, Sr.; and Kody Spano, Stephenville, 6-2, 200, Jr.
Running backs - Jerrard Millsap, Copperas Cove, 5-11, 165, Sr.; and (tie) Taylor Dupree, Mesquite Poteet, 6-2, 210, Sr., and Carmon Boyd-Anderson, Jacksonville, 6-2, 192, Sr.; and Corey Holbert, Alvarado, 5-10, 170, Sr.
Place-kicker - (tie) Cameron Curry, Waco High, 5-6, 150, Sr., and Cory Foust, CC Flour Bluff, 5-5, 155, Soph.; and Michael Murray, Lake Dallas, 5-11, 185, Soph.
Defense
Linemen - Ben Goldthorpe, Denton Ryan, 6-3, 240, Sr.; Jarro d Johnson, Paris North Lamar, 5-11, 200, Sr.; Stephen Thomas, Lancaster, 6-3, 287, Sr.; Zach Petitt, Pflugerville Connally, 6-1,
230, Sr.
Linebackers - Sule Osadiede, Lamar Consolidated, Jr.; James Ervin, Nacogdoches, 6-0, 195, Jr.; Andre August, Beaumont Central, 5-10, 195, Sr.; Joe Sexton, Barbers Hill, 5-10, 185, Jr.; Luke
Shivers, Whitehouse, 6-1, 215, Sr.; and (tie) Chris Dowell, EP Andress, 6-0, 200, Sr., and Chris Brown, Amarillo Palo Duro, 6-0, 185, Jr.; and Michael Yanez, Hays, 5-11, 180, Sr.
Secondary - Eddie Morgan, McKinney, 6-0, 185, Sr.; Jon Harvell, Whitehouse, 6-4, 190, Jr.; Johnny Thomas, Texas City, 5-11, 165, Jr.; and Tim Kennedy, Clemens, 5-10, 175, Sr.
Punter - Austin Cunningham, Paris, 6-2, 185, Jr.
Kick returner - (tie) David Moore, EP Chapin, 5-10, 190, Sr., and Eddie Morgan, McKinney, 6-0, 185, Sr.

TSWA 3A ALL-STATE TEAM

BRYAN, Texas (AP) - Gilmer quarterback G.J. Kinne and Liberty Hill running back Brent Bode have been named co-offensive players of the year on the Texas Sports Writers Association's Class 3A all-state football team. The 215-pound Kinne threw for 2,962 yards with 47 touchdowns. The 180-pound Bode rushed for 2,363 yards with 28 touchdowns. Both are seniors. Giddings linebacker Alan Dock, a 210-pound junior, was named the defensive player of the year. He had 167 tackles. Liberty-Eylau's Pat Brady was named coach of the year.
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FIRST TEAM
Offense
Guards - Kyle Ness, Decatur, 6-3, 273, Sr. and Damarian Ates, Chapel Hill, 6-2, 280, Sr.
Tackles - Jamie Blatnick, Celina, 6-4, 250, Sr. and Lonnie Edwards, Brownsboro, 6-5, 300, Sr.
Center - Clayton Cenday, Wimberley, 6-1, 210, Sr.
Wide receivers - Curtis Brown, Gilmer, 6-0, 174, Sr. and Carlos Gallegos, Royse City, 6-0, 175, Jr.
Tight end - George Reyes, Bandera, 6-3, 200, Sr.
Quarterback - G.J. Kinne, Gilmer, 6-2, 215, Sr.
Running backs - Brent Bode, Liberty Hill, 6-0, 180, Sr.; Doug Allman, Liberty Hill, 6-0, 220, Jr.; Shawnbrey McNeal, Dallas Madison, 5-9, 190, Sr.
Placekicker - Ben Parks, Argyle, 6-0, 175, Jr.
Defense
Linemen - Alberto Florez, Snyder, 6-0, 215, Sr.; Ben Jones, Robinson, 6-0, 190, Sr.; Breck Holman, Celina, 5-4, 165, Jr.; and (tie) Len Thompson, Wimberley, 6-5, 215, Sr. and Micah Spicer, Robinson, 6-3, 210, Sr.
Linebackers - Alan Dock, Giddings, 6-0, 210, Jr.; Josh Jennings, Abilene Wylie, 5-10, 196, Sr.; Charles Jones, Liberty-Eylau, 6-0, 205, Jr.; Brett McGee, Robinson, 6-3, 220, Sr.
Secondary - Logan Bryan, Brownsboro, 6-3, 170, Sr.; B.J. Lewis, Robinson, 6-1, 190, Sr.; Chris West, Devine, 6-1, 200, Sr.; Dru Prosser, Celina, 6-1, 200, Sr.
Punter - Will Middlebrooks, Texarkana Liberty-Eylau, 6-4, 200, Sr.
Kick returner - Sam Buker, Canton, 5-5, 140, Sr.
Co-Offensive Players of the Year - G.J. Kinne, Gilmer, 6-2, 215, Sr. and Brent Bode, Liberty Hill, 6-0, 180, Sr.
Defensive Player of the Year - Alan Dock, Giddings, 6-0, 210, Jr.
Coach of the Year - Pat Brady, Liberty-Eylau.
SECOND TEAM
Offense
Guards - Ben Butler, Graham, 6-1, 252, Jr. and Brady Fletcher, Perryton, 6-5, 210, Sr.
Tackles - Kelvin Beachum, Mexia, 6-4, 275, Sr. and Ahmad Jones, Silsbee, 6-2, 310, Sr.
Center - Josh Ramer, Celina, 6-1, 220, Sr.
Wide receivers - Chris Favors, Groesbeck, 5-9, 165, Sr. and Lee Thompson, Wimberley, 6-5, 215, Sr.
Tight end - (tie) Bobby Martin, China Spring, 6-3, 185, Sr. and Matt Smith, Abilene Wylie, 6-5, 225, Sr.
Quarterback - (tie) Justin Sturns, Rusk, 6-0, 210, Sr. and Will Middlebrooks, Liberty-Eylau, 6-2, 188, Sr.
Running backs - Will Clay, Snyder, 6-2, 198, Jr.; LaMichael James, Liberty-Eylau, 5-10, 185, Jr.; and Andy Werner, Hondo, 6-0, 190, Sr.
Placekicker - Will Middlebrooks, Liberty-Eylau, 6-2, 188, Sr.
Defense
Linemen - Ryan Ueckert, Sinton, 5-10, 240, Sr.; Gustavo Alvarez, Port Isabel, 5-11, 215, Sr.; Kaeron Johnson, Cuero, 6-2, 260, Jr.; Dexter Shafer, Midland Greenwood, 6-2, 215, Sr.
Linebackers - Joseph Bengfort, Sanger, 5-10, 180, Sr.; Stephen Gummelt, Canton, 5-10,165, Sr.; Gerald Attaway, Rusk, 5-9, 195, Sr.; (tie) Nate Barbee, Royse City, 5-11, 180, Sr. and Ryan
Epperson, Brownsboro, 6-1, 215, Jr.
Secondary - James Delgado, Port Isabel, 6-1, 175, Jr.; Patrick Dukes, Liberty-Eylau, 5-10, 170, Jr.; Corey Lee, Andrews, 5-9, 155, Jr.; Chez Thomas, Kennedale, 5-10, 190, Sr.
Punter - Eric Boyd, Seminole, 5-11, 160, Sr.
Kick returner - Richard Samuel, Wimberley, 5-9, 150, Sr.
THIRD TEAM
Offense
Guards - (tie) Faustino Camacho, Port Isabel, 6-2, 240, Sr.; Austin Cox, Orange Grove, 5-10, 235, Sr.; and Joel Torres, Pleasanton, 5-11, 285, Sr.
Tackles - David Snow, Gilmer, 6-4, 280, Jr.; and (tie) John Jeanes, Royal, 6-6, 260, Sr.; Zachary Tamayo, Port Isabel, 6-3, 255, Sr.; and Brock Wempa, Royse City, 6-3, 275, So.
Center - (tie) Michael Mann, Snyder, 5-10, 230, Sr. and Wade McCullin, Cameron, 6-2, 215, Sr.
Wide receivers - (tie) Tre Gray, Cuero, 5-11, 160, Sr.; Earl Thomas, West Orange-Stark, 5-10, 174, Sr.; and Chance McCoy, Graham, 6-2, 180, Sr.
Tight end - Kody Alvarez, Kirbyville, 6-1, 220, Sr.
Quarterback - Ricky Beaty, Wimberley, 6-0, 175, Sr.
Running backs - Michael Buse, Wimberley, 5-11, 195, Sr.; Nathan Pegues, Sanger, 5-9, 180, Sr.; Chris Whaley, Madisonville, 6-3, 210, So.
Placekicker - Bryce Channell, Abilene Wylie, 5-10, 150, Jr.
Defense
Linemen - Tyler Driggers, Snyder, 5-10, 205, Sr.; Travis Harrel, Orange Grove, 6-0, 180, Sr.; David Requena, Caldwell, 5-9, 180, Sr.; Stacey Mendoza, Andrews, 6-2, 237, Sr.
Linebackers - Arsenial Richardson, Gilmer, 6-0, 175, Sr.; Chad Skunda, Wimberley, 6-0, 200, Jr.; Justin Adames, Sweetwater, 5-10, 190, Sr.; Robert Douglas, Hondo, 5-9, 175, Sr.
Secondary - Andy Werner, Hondo, 6-0, 190, Sr.; Domingo Ruiz, Cuero, 6-0, 170, Sr.; Joseph Banyard, Sweetwater, 5-10, 181, Sr. and Joel Johnson, Ingleside, 6-1, 190, Sr.
Punter - Seth Mogavero, Robinson, 5-9, 175, Jr.
Kick returner - Brian Scott, Cameron, 6-0, 175, Sr.

TSWA 2A ALL-STATE TEAM

BRYAN, Texas (AP) - Tatum running back Lennon Creer and Mart linebacker Heston Adler are the offensive and defensive players of the year for the Texas Sports Writers Association's Class 2A all-state football team. Tatum coach Andy Evans was named coach of the year.
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FIRST TEAM
Offense
Guards - Michael Brown, Lexington, 6-1, 215, Sr. and Martin Beltran, Stratford, 5-10, 200, Sr.
Tackles - Dustin Davis, Tatum, 6-4, 235, Sr. and Daniel Moore, Lexington, 6-6, 302, Soph.
Center - Cullen Hightower, Omaha Pewitt, 6-1, 270, Sr.
Wide receivers - Damian Davis, Mart, 6-6, 185, Sr. and Kendale Mayberry, Itasca, 5-9, 175, Sr.
Tight end - Patrick Sherek, Jarrell, 6-5, 210, Sr.
Quarterback - Lee McClendon, Mart, 5-10, 180, Jr.
Running backs - Lennon Creer, Tatum, 6-1, 200, Sr.; Terrance Ganaway, DeKalb, 6-0, 205, Sr.; and (tie) Austin Griffin, Aubrey, 5-10, 175, Sr. and Alex Bowman, Lone Oak, 6-2, 195, Sr.
Placekicker - Juve Sanchez, Blooming Grove, 6-2, 190, Jr.
Defense
Linemen - Tim Jones, Mart, 5-9, 180, Sr.; Kyle Kriegel, Elysian Fields, 6-5, 220, Soph.; Jonathan Humphries, Tatum, 6-0, 200, Sr.; and (tie) Lamar Crawford, Itasca, 6-0, 190, Sr. and Dustin McClure, Bangs, 5-10, 210, Sr.
Linebackers - Heston Adler, Mart, 6-0, 215, Jr.; Bryce Beall, Tatum, 6-0, 195, Jr.; Demetrius Ellis, Somerville, 6-1, 180, Sr.; and Mark Reynolds, Mart, 5-10, 175, Sr.
Secondary - Travis Slaughter, Crawford, 5-7, 160, Sr.; Darrell Jenkins, Newton, 5-11, 190, Sr.; Trevor Dreyton, Corrigan Camden, 6-2, 180, Sr.; and James Stroleny, George West, 5-10, 160, Sr.
Punter - Marcos Ramos, Alpine, 6-1, 180, Jr.
Kick returner - Darnius Moore, Tatum, 6-2, 185, Sr.
Offensive Player of the Year - Lennon Creer, Tatum.
Defensive Player of the Year - Heston Adler, Mart.
Coach of the Year - Andy Evans, Tatum.
SECOND TEAM
Offense
Guards - Matt Webber, Paradise, 6-1, 292, Sr. and Cory Davis, Littlefield, 5-9, 210, Sr.
Tackles - Nelson Dabney, Rice Consolidated, 6-3, 280, Sr. and Sterling Koopmann, Schulenburg, 6-3, 225, Sr.
Center - (tie) Landon Summers, Mart, 6-3, 220, Sr. and Ryan Merryman, Marlin, 6-2 1/2, 230, Sr.
Wide receivers - Jeremy Nelson, Boyd, 6-1, 175, Sr. and Sam Roberson, Somerville, 6-4, 200, Sr.
Tight end - Forest Rucker, Hearne, 6-6, 230, Jr.
Quarterback - Cody Ogle, Boyd, 5-11, 200, Sr.
Running backs - Stephen Viljoen, Littlefield, 6-2, 215, Sr.; Justin Williams, Deweyville, 6-1, 225, Sr.; Brandon McCleveland, Big Sandy , 5-7, 145, Jr.
Placekicker - Bradley Reynolds, Lexington, 5-8, 155, Jr.
Defense
Linemen - Julio Ramirez, Stratford, 6-0, 180, Jr.; Andrew Wolridge, Lexington, 6-2, 250, Jr.; Ethan Williams, Salado, 6-2, 220, Sr.; Matt Sellers, Cisco, 6-0, 220, Jr.
Linebackers - Jory Hernandez, Cisco, 5-9, 170, Jr.; Donald Knight, Corsicana Mildred, 5-11, 205, Sr.; Bradan Ritchey, Boyd, 6-5, 225, Sr.; and (tie) Eric Kirkland, Tatum, 6-4, 230, Sr. and Stephen Phillips, Scurry-Rosser, 6-1, 175, Jr.
Secondary - Tramain Thomas, East Chambers, 6-2, 175, Jr.; Sam Roberson, Somerville, 6-4, 200, Sr.; Pat Faulk, Kerens, 5-10, 170, Fresh.; and Brett Berry, Tolar, 6-0, 160, Sr.
Punter - Zack Massingill, Big Sandy, 5-10, 150, Sr.
Kick returner - Kevin Barlow, Corsicana Mildred, 5-10, 180, Jr.
THIRD TEAM
Offense
Guards - James Whitlow, Refugio, 6-2, 330, Sr. and (tie) Gabe Lozano, Comfort, 6-0, 245, Jr. and Russell Stoppel, Littlefield, 5-8, 180, Sr.
Tackles - Kallan Burns, Childress, 6-5, 300, Sr. and Nathan Kriegel, Elysian Fields, 6-3, 265, Sr.
Center - Justin Shelton, Itasca, 6-0, 200, Sr.
Wide receivers - Chance Blackmon, Tatum, 6-2, 175, Jr. and Darnius Moore, Tatum, 6-0, 175, Sr.
Tight end - (tie) Ronnie Willrich, Lexington, 6-2, 200, Sr. and Buck Russell, Aubrey, 6-3, 220, Jr.
Quarterback - (tie ) Luke Roberts, Comfort, 6-1, 212, Sr. and Jacob West, Cisco, 5-11, 185, Sr.
Running backs - Chris Davis, Troup, Sr.; Corey Lewis, Lexington, 5-8, 175, Sr.; and (tie) Carl Swain, Refugio, 5-10, 175, Jr. and Jeff Ridens, Union Grove, Sr.
Placekicker - (tie) Jake Arrington, Gunter, 5-9, 150, Jr. and Mitchell Bailey, Early, 6-0, 185, Jr.
Defense
Linemen - Manny Meglar, Blanco, 6-2, 200, Sr.; Quincy Roberts, Farmersville, 6-1, 210, Jr.; Donquell Davenport, Tatum, 6-2, 230, Sr.; and (tie) Brent Botard, Rice Consolidated, 6-4, 230, Sr. and Sandro Gomez, Stratford, 6-0, 215, Jr.
Linebackers - Ross McCormick, Blanco, 6-2, 215, Jr.; Joseph Schumpert, Jefferson, 6-0, 185, Sr.; Wes Finch, Holliday, 5-8, 187, Sr.; and Shane Duff, Elysian Fields, 5-10, 175, Sr.;
Secondary - Lorenzo Cortez, Jefferson, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Lonnie Garcia, Dilley, 5-9, 150, Jr.; Bryan McCleveland, Big Sandy, 5-7, 140, Sr.; and Jacob Weir, Troy, Sr.
Punter - Taylor Cook, Rice Consolidated, 6-1, 210, Jr.
Kick returner - Rashard Colquitt, Corrigan-Camden, 5-10, 185, Sr.

TSWA 1A ALL-STATE TEAM

BRYAN, Texas (AP) - Alto quarterback Julian Willis and linebacker Clayton Scott have been selected as the offensive and defensive players of the year for the Texas Sports Writers
Association's Class A all-state football team. Willis and Scott led undefeated Alto to the Division One state title. Robert Little, coach of Division Two state champ Chilton, and Alto coach Keith Gardner shared coach of the year honors.
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FIRST TEAM
Offense
Guards - Eli Crawford, Groveton, 6-1, 230, Sr. and Ryan Wadkins, Goldthwaite, 6-1, 210, Sr.
Tackles - Ben Johnson, Alto, 6-3, 275, Sr. and Travis Veitenheimer, Windthorst, 6-6, 283, Jr.
Center - Jerod Mankins, Windthorst, 6-0, 228, Sr.
Wide receivers - Tyson Mitchell, Alto, 6-3, 200, Sr. and Greg Gilbert, Electra, 6-0, 165, Sr.
Tight end - Andre Thomas, Union Hill, 6-2, 225, Sr.
Quarterback - Julian Willis, Alto, 6-1, 215, Sr.
Running backs - Joshua Fitchett, Sterling City, 6-1, 205, Sr.; Casey Giles, Iola, 5-11, 185, Sr.; and Travis Landrum, Chilton, 6-1, 230, Sr.
Placekicker - Sergio Garza, Carlisle, 5-9, 140, Sr.
Defense
Linemen - David Browne, Roscoe, 6-1, 245, Sr.; Rex McDougald, Iola, 6-3, 305, Sr.; Austin Llana, Thorndale, 6-3, 240, Jr.; and Travis Veitenheimer, Windthorst, 6-6, 283, Jr.
Linebackers - Justin Adaway, Colmesneil, 5-11, 185, Jr.; D.J. Wyatt, Electra, 6-0, 205, Sr.; Clayton Scott, Alto, 6-0, 210, Jr.; and Mitchell McCoy, Goldthwaite, 6-1, 175, Sr.
Secondary - Aaron Doyle, Evant, soph.; Jason McCoy, Windthorst, 5-10, 150, Sr.; Heath Hanson, Wink, 6-0, 175, Sr.; and Brock Blair, Union Hill, 5-7, 170, Sr.
Punter - Dustin Schulte, Nazareth, 6-1, 180, Sr.
Kick returner - Tyson Mitchell, Alto, 6-3, 200, Sr.
Offensive Player of the Year - Julian Willis, Alto, 6-1, 215, Sr.
Defensive Player of the Year - Clayton Scott, Alto, 6-0, 210, Jr.
Co-Coaches of the Year - Keith Gardner, Alto and Robert Little, Chilton.
SECOND TEAM
Offense
Guards - Casey Hudson, Ranger, 6-3, 220, Jr. and Justin Caillier, Lindsay, 5-11, 230, Sr.
Tackles - Dezmon Johnson, Grapeland, 6-1, 315, Sr. and Arthur Alvarado, Iola, 5-11, 275, Sr.
Center - Eric Carrizales, Thorndale, 6-3, 235, Sr.
Wide receivers - Jared Villanueva, Roscoe, 5-11, 160, Soph. and (tie) Brett Berry, Tolar, 6-0, 160, Sr. and Will Martin, Roby, 6-0, 185, Sr.
Tight end - Dustin Piske, Valley Mills, 6-1, 190, Sr.
Quarterback - Brad Green, Windthorst, 6-2, 205, Sr.
Running backs - Jeremy Lofton, Alto, 5-10, 190, Sr.; Tye Moseley, Goldthwaite, 5-10, 170, Sr.; and (tie) T.J. Adams, Beckville, 6-1, 185, Jr.; Michael McIntosh, Memphis, 5-7, 155, Sr.;
and Josh Stewart, Ranger, 5-9, 165, Sr.
Placekicker - Cruz Magana, Archer City, 5-8, 165, Sr.
Defense
Linemen - Josh Carr, Windthorst, 5-10, 245, Sr.; Frank Martinez, Bovina, 5-11, 225, Sr.; Ryan Wadkins, Goldthwaite, 6-0, 210, Sr.; and SeDerrick Brooks, Thorndale, 6-3, 250, Jr.
Linebackers - Lance Low, Alto, 6-0, 190, Jr.; Jeff Matus, Pettus, 6-0, 165, Sr.; Riley Barrett, Groveton, 6-0, 220, Sr.; and Tercellus Mitchell, Alto, 6-4, 210, Sr.
Secondary - Eric Permenter, Joaquin, 6-1, 170, Jr.; Brett Berry, Tolar, 6-0, 160, Sr.; Aaron Compton, Milano, 6-1, 165, Sr.; and Greg Gilbert, Electra, 5-11, 170, Sr.
Punter - Scotty Brown, Hamlin, 6-1, 201, Sr.
Kick returner - Glen Curry, Groveton, 5-11, 175, Sr.
THIRD TEAM
Offense
Guards - Eduardo Garcia, Bovina, 5-8, 230, Sr. and Taylor Harris, Valley View, Sr.
Tackles - Britt Mitchell, Roscoe, 6-8, 302, Jr. and Andrew Swinhoe, Archer City, 6-2, 235, Jr.
Center - David Browne, Roscoe, 6-1, 245, Sr.
Wide receivers - (tie) Chandrick Evans, Normangee, 6-1, 178, Jr.; Justin English, Baird, 6-1, 165, Jr. and Dixon Dewald, Evant, 6-0, 185, Sr.
Tight end - Jeremy Butts, Bosqueville, 6-0, 205, Sr.
Quarterback - (tie) Bo Bateman, Electra, 5-6, 155, Sr. and Tarrence Faulk, Grapeland, 6-0, 175, Sr.
Running backs - Brock Blair, Gilmer Union Hill, 5-7, 170, Sr.; Jonathan Price, Wolfe City, 5-9, 165, Sr.; and (tie) Trent Crawford, Groveton, 5-7, 150, Sr. and Tony Allen, Meridian, 5-10,
185, Jr.
Placekicker - Gustavo Calzada, DeLeon, Sr.
Defense
Linemen - Chase Black, Nazareth, 5-11, 180, Sr.; Russell Carney, Collinsville, 5-9, 151, Sr.; J.D. Hejny, McCamey, 6-1, 175, Sr.; and Landon Schwartz, Goldthwaite, 6-3, 180, Sr.
Linebackers - Michael Martinez, Bremond, 5-10, 175, Jr.; Jarid Border, West Hardin, 5-10, 185, Jr.; Juan Hernandez, Winters, 5-8, 160, Sr.; and Riley Seider, Price Carlisle, 5-11, 225, Jr.
Secondary - Sammy Winters, Harper, 5-8, 167, Jr.; Steven McAlpine, Wheeler, 6-2, 185, Sr.; Daniel Acosta, McCamey, 5-9, 170, Sr.; and (tie) Weldon Stallcup, Archer City, 5-3, 175, Sr.; and
Casey Giles, Iola, 5-11, 195, Sr.
Punter - Jared Porter, Roscoe, 5-9, 160, Sr.
Kick returner - Cody Franke, Shiner, 5-6, 150, Jr.

UT-Tyler Basketball Player Steals Her Way To An Award

UT-Tyler RaTonya Hunter is involved with a lot of theft, but it's not the kind that's going to get her arrested. Instead, her thievery is earning her honors. Hunter, a senior basketball player from Athens, equaled an all-time Patriots record with seven steals against Mississippi, then went on to earn the American Southwest Conference's East Division Player of the Week Award. Hunter also had a ten-point, six-steal game against Louisiana College last week, helping the Patriots to a win against their ASC East rival. She added 12 points to her seven steals in Saturday's game against Mississippi College. Her seven steals equaled the team total for the Choctaws! It's also the fourth time she has recorded seven steals in a game. This is Hunter’s first ASC Player of the Week honor.

In Minority Over Spitting Incident

Maybe I'm too insensitive, but I'm having a hard time understanding why the Terrell Owens "spitting incident" is such a big deal. T.O. was fined $35,000 for spitting on Falcons defensive back D'Angelo Hall. Hall wanted him suspended. Former Cowboys wide receiver Michael Irvin went on record saying it's the worst possible thing you can do to a player on the football field.

Really?

I know it's degrading. I know it's inappropriate. I know it's ignorant. But, the worst possible thing you can do to a player?

I never played professional football, but I did play in high school and college. I've been punched, bitten and scratched. I've been grabbed in inappropriate places. I've been chop-blocked below the knees. I've been clipped. I've had my facemask yanked. And, yes, I've been spit on. And frankly, the spitting doesn't rank very high on the list. It made me mad, and it was disgusting, but I wiped it off and went on beating the poor sap between the whistles.

I talked extensively with Eric Williams about this issue. Williams played ten years in the NFL with the Detroit Lions and Washington Redskins. He said what T.O. did was extremely uncool.

"It's a dirty enough game to get turf burns and have people chewing tobacco, and all the stuff you get from the astro turf," Williams said, "and to have someone spit in your face, that's a rough one. It doesn't happen often, or it happens more and people just don't complain about it, but it was uncalled for."

Interesting point there. "It happens more and people just don't complain about it." Isn't that what the NFL is all about? This is the most violent sport a person can play. Dirty, violent and mean things happen all the time.

"People do rude stuff on the field," Williams added. "They hit where they shouldn't hit, they stomp on people with cleats, they spit, they gouge, they poke people in the eye. It's a violent sport, and when you get those emotions going, people do crazy stuff."

Don't get me wrong, I'm not condoning that kind of behavior, but I'm also not saying it doesn't have a place in the sport. Players with attitudes like Michael Irvin wouldn't have made it in the "old school" NFL. In the "glory days" of the NFL, the 30's, 40's, 50's, 60's, players ripped your helmet off, kicked you, spit on you, then went back to the huddle to do it all over again on the next play. If you couldn't handle it, you got off the field. It wasn't a game for sissies.

I'm from that school. Hand the ball to the ref after you score a touchdown. Play the game with ferocity, as if your life depended on it. Hit, bite, scratch, claw... do whatever it takes to get the job done. If you get spit on, no, *when you get spit on, give the jerk a cold stare, wipe it off, go back to the huddle, and pop the guy in the mouth as hard as you can during the next play, and the next play, and the next play, until he regrets ever playing the sport. And, if you can't handle it, go play tennis.

NFL's Plan To Rule The World Is Succeeding

About 60% of East Texas is in a panic this week as they scramble to find somewhere to watch Saturday night's Cowboys game against the Atlanta Falcons. The game is being carried on the NFL Network, which can only be seen by Dish and DirecTV customers. That means, anyone with cable or with an antennae, will be out of luck. Cowboys fans are attacking the cable companies for not carrying the NFL Network. They are trying to declare this a national emergency to get them to carry the game.

NFL, I applaud you.

Before the season it sounded innocent enough. A mere eight games would be carried by the NFL Network, which is owned by the NFL owners. But take a closer look at those eight games, and you will see that every region of the country is represented, from Seattle, to Dallas, to Green Bay, to Atlanta, to New York. At least once this season, somewhere in the country, this desperate plea to the cable companies is happening. The NFL owners are successfully rallying football fans into demanding the NFL Network, and blaming the cable companies for it's absence. Somehow, the $100 million ransom the NFL Network is asking the cable companies for is being lost in the riot.

Ultimately, the cable companies are going to cave, or lose another giant wave of customers to the satellite companies (they lost me years ago). In fact, the NFL is ENCOURAGING football fans to threaten their cable companies with a mass exodus. They are providing toll free numbers on their website to do just that! (1-866-NFL-NETWORK) All that means is more exposure, more control over the product and yes, a lot more money for the NFL owners.

So again. NFL, I applaud you.

Your plan to rule the world is moving full steam ahead...

ETBU Finds Perfect Fit

With the hiring of Mark Sartain, East Texas Baptist University found the perfect man for the job. He may not be the ONLY perfect man for the job, but then again, that depends on if you believe there is only ONE person for each of us. Of course, that's a different article all together.

Each coaching job requires a unique personality. In other words, what may be right for Brownsboro, may not be right for Tatum, which may not be right for Robert E. Lee, which may not be right for All Saints, etc.

Sartain's style worked at Trinity Valley, but it has the potential to thrive at ETBU. There are certain beliefs that cater to a certain type of situation. ETBU's emphasis on four years of personal, educational and spiritual development, embody what Sartain strives to instill in his programs. When you only have two years with the kids in a junior college setting, and the players goals are to "get in and get out", there is only so much of that you can do. That's not a knock against junior colleges. There are countless examples of students and athletes that would be lost without that unique opportunity. Maybe it's more about the spiritual message a coach like Sartain can only instill within an extended time span.

Gander Mountain Hunting Tip: Move S-L-O-W

Gander Mountain has been nice enough to share some hunting and fishing tips to help you get the most out of your experiences in the outdoors. This weeks tip comes from Pro Staff Member Craig Boddington:

The most fundamental mistake most of us make in the deer woods is not watching the wind. The second most serious mistake lies in moving too fast. It doesn’t matter whether you’re hunting from a stand or still-hunting, pussyfooting slowly through good cover. It also doesn’t matter whether you’re in head-to-toe camouflage or blaze orange (although camouflage, where legal, always helps!). If a whitetail gets your wind he’s gone, but if the wind is in your favor the next most likely thing to spook him is movement. Sudden movement is the kiss of death, but sometimes you can get by with slow, steady movement. Just because you can’t see a deer doesn’t mean there isn’t one nearby, so concentrate on keeping all movements slow and steady, all the while looking around—moving only your eyes as much as possible, and keeping head movements slow. If you see a deer (or think you do) and you can see his head, then he can see you. Freeze. Do not bring up your binoculars or your gun or bow until the head is completely hidden, and then move slowly and deliberately. Sometimes you have no choice but to go for it, but don’t let a deer startle you into rapid movement. As long as he’s stationary or moving slowly, take your time. The best way to turn an easy shot into a lost opportunity is to bring your gun or bow up too fast.

Craig Boddington
TV Host of Tracks Across Africa & Guns and Ammo
Elite Gander Mountain Pro Staff Member

KLTV 7 College Football Schedule For Saturday, December 2

We have a big day of football on KLTV 7 Saturday. Here is the schedule:

Dr. Pepper ACC Championship Game
Wake Forest vs. Georgia Tech
Alltel Stadium in Jacksonville, FL
12:30-3:30pm

“College Football Presented By Best Buy”
USC @ UCLA
3:30 – 7:00pm

Dr. Pepper Big 12 Championship Game
Nebraska @ Oklahoma
Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City MO.
7:00 – aprx. 10:30pm

Investment In Football Paying Huge Dividends For Whitehouse

It's nothing personal against the Wildcats, but Whitehouse just doesn't win when it comes to football. Since 1947, the Wildcats have produced just 12 winning seasons entering 2006. They had made the playoffs four times, winning just two playoff games. In 1978, the Wildcats won the district championship and finished 9-2. Since then, they have had just three winning seasons, and one playoff berth.

In 2004, Whitehouse decided they were tired of watching everyone else in the district achieve postseason success on the gridiron and decided to do something about it. That's when they hired Randy McFarlin away from Daingerfield. In six seasons at Daingerfield, McFarlin's Tigers made six straight playoff appearances, winning nine playoff games, advancing to the state quarterfinals three times, the state semifinals twice, and the state finals once, losing to Newton in 1998.

"When I talked to the (Whitehouse ISD football coach search) committee and accepted this job," said McFarlin, "I felt like the committee there, and the administration were committed to a winning program, and that's very important coming into a community. You have to have the support, both financially, and just the support in general to make this thing work. We had to make a lot of changes in Whitehouse, Texas to get this program's foot on the ground, and the third year, here we are still playing, I'm very pleased with the progress."

But that progress was in jeopardy early this year. After giving up 70 points in the first two games of the season, including a 42-36 loss to Sulphur Springs in week two, McFarlin and his coaching staff shook up the program. They brought in several sophomores from the junior varsity, including a new quarterback. They also committed several of their top athletes primarily to defense.

"At that point after week two, we looked where we were at, and knew, at the level we wanted to play as a coaching staff, we had to make some changes," McFarlin said, "and there again, I don't know if it's luck or what, but it worked out for us. "

Boy did it work. After giving up 42 points in week two, the Wildcats defense allowed just 41 points over the next six games, setting up a district title showdown with Marshall. Whitehouse won a thriller at Wildcat stadium, 35-34. In ten games since the change, the Wildcats have outscored their opponents by 144 points and have posted a 9-1 record. Overall they are 10-2, the best record in school history, and are in the third round of the playoffs for the first time in school history.

"We're very thrilled that it did work," McFarlin said. "It makes you look pretty good when it works, and pretty bad the other way if it hadn't worked, but we're just very fortunate it worked for us and we're still playing."

How long will they continue to play? That remains to be seen. Waco is their next challenge Saturday afternoon.

800th Win For Avinger Coach

A big congratulations to Avinger basketball coach Ken Loyd who got his 800th career win last night. His 5th-ranked Indians beat North Hopkins 67-56 in overtime.

Coach Loyd has been in the business for 41 years, winning three state titles. He has also coached at Texas High, White Oak, Huntington and Venus.

500 is an incredible accomplishment, but 800 is almost beyond belief! That's an average of around 20 wins a season.

Gander Mountain Hunting Tip: Feather Light

Gander Mountain has been nice enough to share with us some hunting and fishing tips to help you get the most out of your outdoor experience. As the largest retail network of stores in the nation, they have an extensive team of experts at their disposal.

This weeks tip comes from Jeff French, a store manager in Kenosha, Wisconsin, who talks about hiding your scent while hunting.

When hunting from a treestand, it is essential to be aware of where your scent is traveling. Wind checkers are great for the immediate area around your treestand, but another great choice is as close as your local fly shop!
A small piece of marabou of feather can show you where your scent is being carried well beyond your stand. By ripping off a small piece and letting it float away, you can identify changing wind currents for several yards! Try it and you may be surprised!
Jeff French
Store Manager, Kenosha, WI

Playoff Predictions

It's always fun to look at the wide open brackets to try to figure out how everything plays out. The beauty is, there's always upsets, but the cream usually rises to the top. We've looked at all of the brackets and offer what we think could happen:

5A Divsion I: This is by far the toughest classification this year. Seven of the top ten ranked teams in the state reside here. This is going to be brutal. Let's take Lufkin for instance. If they are to win a state championship this year, they will probably have to face five ranked teams in their six games. The game that everyone will have their eye on, though, will be #1 Southlake Carroll versus #3 Euless Trinity in the second round! The winner of that game will be odds on favorite to win the championship. With their history, along with what they've accomplished this season so far, we think Southlake Carroll wins that game, and goes on to play Lufkin in the semifinals. The winner of that game will probably face fifth-ranked Galena Park North Shore for the title. Sorry Panthers, but we think it's going to be the South Lake Carroll Dragons winning it all.

5A Division II: There are no ranked teams in Region two right now, which bodes well for the 12-5A teams. John Tyler will have their hands full with Dallas Carter in the first round. Longview faces a road block in round two against Garland. History says Carter and Garland meet for the Regional championship with Garland pulling it out. They should fall to 6th-ranked Cedar Hill in the semi's, who will in turn lose to Katy in the state title game. It won't be easy for Katy, though. They'll probably have to get by 9th-ranked Smithson Valley in the semi's. But Katy is the pick.

4A Divison I: This is an easy pick, yet a hard pick, because the state championship game is going to be played in the second round. Texas High will get a rematch against Highland Park, who beat them in the first round of the playoffs last year on their way to the state title. We think the Texas High Tigers get their revenge and win the Division I championship.

4A Divison II: This should be a wide open division this year. Whitehouse has the chance to go pretty far. Unfortunately, their lack of depth may haunt them in round three when they play 9th-ranked Waco. Waco should play Stephenville in the semi's. We give the nod to Stephenville. But in the end, Brenham should emerge as the champion.

3A Division I: Gilmer coach Jeff Traylor knew before the season even started that his Buckeyes would probably have to face Liberty-Eylau in the first round. If they get by that game, it should be clear sailing all the way to the title game. Their opponent will more than likely be the winner of the second round matchup between Hutto and Diboll. Our nod goes to Diboll. In an All-East Texas final, Gilmer wins their second state championship in three years.

3A Division II: There are several good teams happy Gilmer is Division I. Key games include Celina versus Dallas Madison, Brownsboro versus Atlanta, and West Orange Stark versus Gidding, all in the second round. We think Madison emerges over Atlanta for the Region two title. Cuero should stop West Orange Stark in the semi's. That sets up a classic between Cuero and Madison. Our pick is Cuero as champion.

2A Division I: The simple truth here is Region three is the state championship bracket. Whoever emerges from this region will have their toughest competition behind them. 5th-ranked Tatum will most likely play 6th-ranked Jefferson in the second round. The winner of that game will have to face the winner of 4th-ranked Newton against 7th-ranked Marlin. Our pick, and I know it's the safe pick, but who cares... Tatum wins their second straight title.

2A Division II: Again, Region three probably holds the state champion. 2005 state finalists Paul Pewitt (2A-DII) and Big Sandy (1A) match up in the first round and it takes off from there. #2 Crawford will have a say in the outcome of that side of the Region three bracket, with #1 Mart probably coming out of the other side, if they can get by Troup. The Region champion should face #3 Lexington in the semifinals, then face #9 Blanco in the finals. our pick is Mart.

1A Division I: 1A moves to two divisions this year for the first time. There are only two ranked teams in Division I, and they will have to play each other in the third round. #2 Alto beats #6 Wolfe City and goes on to win the state title.

1A Division II: This is anyone's guess. A lot of good teams will have a shot at it. Expect #2 New Deal to win out in Region 1, but fall to #1 Windthorst in the semifinals. We think #10 Grapeland can make it to the semifinals, but will have their hands full with #5 Chilton. Regardless of who wins that game, we think Windthorst wins the state title.

Final High School Football Poll

East Texas schools made a strong showing in every classification ranking in the final AP high school football poll, which means once again, East Texas should make a strong showing in the playoffs. Lufkin finishes as the second ranked team in 5A. Texas High is the topped ranked team in 4A. Gilmer slips by Cuero in the final week to take over the top spot in 3A. 2A is packed with East Texas talent. Former number ones Tatum and Jefferson finish fifth and sixth respectively. Troup finishes tenth. And, in 1A, Alto finishes second with Grapeland 10th.

Hunting Tip: Coffee and Venison?

Gander Mountain has been kind enough to periodically send us some hunting and fishing tips. Here's one on cooking venision from Elite Pro Staff member Keith Warren:

Recently, I learned of a new way to cook back strap. Although it may sound very unusual, it is out of this world. Here is how to do it. Cut back straps a full 2” thick and place them in your favorite marinade, I use Cajun Injector Garlic Creole. Usually it takes hours to marinate thick cuts of meat, but in a marinade canister by Tilia (manufacturer of the Foodsaver, www.foodsaver.com), it only takes 20 minutes.

Remove the marinated meat and drain excess liquid from the meat. Wrap cut of meat with bacon. Then sprinkle the upper side with garlic salt. Next, take pulverized freeze-dried instant coffee crystals and lightly dust the salted side. Allow to sit for 20 minutes or until the coffee resembles chocolate syrup. Then turn the meat over and do the same on the other side.Cook over a medium fire for six minutes per side for medium rare, longer for medium or well-done. I know this sounds odd, but it will be an unbelievable piece of meat. The garlic salt draws out the blood, and the coffee causes it to form a coating that will help the meat retain its moisture.With this recipe we have come up with a new family favorite -- just another way to enjoy a successful hunt. By the way, I am far from being considered a good cook. Just ask my wife. But with this recipe, it is hard to do a bad job.

Keith Warren
Gander Mountain Elite Pro Staff Member and
TV Host of Keith Warren's Outdoor Adventures

Gander Mountain Hunting Tip: Deer Hunting

Gander Mountain has been nice enough to periodically pass along some hunting and fishing tips. With deer season set to begin, here is a good set of tips from Elite Pro Staff Member Ray Howell:

Quick Tips for Deer Hunting
· Always keep the wind in your favor (work into or quarter into it). If at all possible, use scent-blocking clothing and scent killer odor sprays. They will eliminated human odors or keep them very low.
· Your bow or firearms should be covered with a camo cloth tape or have a dull finish to prevent any f reflection from the sun. When using your bow, sound-dampening equipment should be incorporated into your hunting system so that when you make the shot, the animal will not hear it coming.
· Use a scentless face camo to help keep the shine of your face concealed.
· While stalking your prey, do not be in a hurry. Wait for your prey to make the mistakes, and then capitalize on them. A lot of times, you can get too anxious to get the shot and actually "blow" an opportunity very easily.
· Use the landscape to your benefit and never silhouette yourself.
· Use a powder device to constantly check the wind direction.
· And always remember that one set of eyes is a lot easier to stalk up on than several sets.

Ray Howell
Gander Mountain Elite Pro Staff Member and
Founder of Kicking Bear Youth Program