Adams Central
Class: B
NICKNAME: Patriots
DISTRICT: 6
COACH: Bill Carlin (19th year)
2007 RECORD: 9-2
RETURNING STARTERS: 7
RETURNING LETTERWINNERS: 19
KEY RETURNEES: Riley Larsen, OT/DT, 6-3, 255, Sr.; Matt Swanson, TE, 6-0, 205, Sr.; Zach Hunt, DB, 6-2, 165, Sr.; Alex Rostvet, DB, 5-9, 155, Sr.; Nathan Arlt, RB/DB, 5-9, 170, Jr.; Ryan Behmer, RB/LB, 5-10, 185, Jr.; Jordan Cain, RB/LB, 5-10, 185, Sr.
COACHSPEAK: "Although we lost a good group, I don't feel like the cupboard is bare. We have some good kids to work with."
2008 SCHEDULE
Aug. -- 29, at Seward.
Sept. -- 5, Crete; 12, at Platteview; 19, Holdrege; 26, at York.
Oct. -- 3, Columbus Lakeview; 19, at Hastings; 17, Northwest; 24, Aurora.
Ansley
Class: D-2
NICKNAME: Warriors
DISTRICT: 8
COACH: Dan Moore (36th year)
2007 RECORD: 3-5
RETURNING STARTERS: 6
KEY RETURNEES: Levi Entz, 6-5, 200, Sr.; Wes Slack, 6-1, 170, Sr.; Tallon Scott, 6-1, 17-, Sr.; Joe Schulte, 5-11, 225, Sr.; Ben Johnson, 5-8, 180, Sr.; Troy Malolley, 5-9, 190, Sr.
COACHSPEAK: "We want to improve each game and have to get off to a good start early in the season."
2008 SCHEDULE
Sept. -- 5, at Sandhills/Thedford; 12, Callaway; 19, Litchfield; 26, at Maywood.
Oct. -- 3, Sumner-Eddyville-Miller; 10, at Brady; 17, Anselmo-Merna; 23, at Loomis.
Arcadia
Class: Six-man
NICKNAME: Huskies
2007 RECORD: 7-2
2008 SCHEDULE
Sept. -- 5, at Greeley-Wolbach; 12, McPherson County; 26, at Loup County.
Oct. -- 3, St. Edward; 10, Wheeler Central; 17, at Elba; 24, at South Platte.
Aurora
Class: B
NICKNAME: Huskies
DISTRICT: 6
COACH: Randy Huebert (10th year)
2007 RECORD: 6-5
RETURNING STARTERS: 5
RETURNING LETTERWINNERS: 40
KEY RETURNEES: Andrew Rodriquez, T/DT, 6-6, 310, Jr.; Jerry Lobeda, RB/S, 5-10, 170, Sr.; Luke Johnson, FB/LB, 5-10, 195, Sr.; Jake Burson, G/DT, 5-8, 250, Sr.; Tyler Corradi, K, 6-1, 170, Sr.
COACHSPEAK: "We have experience on the defensive side of the ball. We have good depth at the back, receiver and defensive back positions."
2008 SCHEDULE
Aug. -- 29, at Crete.
Sept. -- 5, at York; 12, McCook; 19, at Norris; 26, Seward.
Oct. -- 3, Columbus; 19, at Northwest; 17, Hastings; 24, at Adams Central.
Boone Central
Class: C-1
NICKNAME: Cardinals
DISTRICT: 6
COACH: Arnold Johnson (21st year)
2007 RECORD: 9-2
RETURNING STARTERS: 3
RETURNING LETTERWINNERS: 12
KEY RETURNEES: Kalvin Zoucha, TE/DE, 6-4, 205, Sr.; Ryan Shotkoski, S, 6-0, 175, Sr.
COACHSPEAK: "Since we only have three starting positions back, we have a lot of excited players getting ready to see their first action. We feel with our situation that we should improve each week."
2008 SCHEDULE
Sept. -- 5, at Norfolk Catholic; 12, Grand Island CC; 19, Fillmore Central; 26, at Centennial.
Oct. -- 3, Twin River; 10, at Madison; 17, David City; 23, at Columbus Scotus.
Broken Bow
Class: C-1
NICKNAME: Indians
DISTRICT: 9
COACH: Mike Garner (11th year)
2007 RECORD: 6-3
RETURNING STARTERS: 9
RETURNING LETTERWINNERS: 14
KEY RETURNEES: Noel Scott, OL/LB, 6-3, 240, Sr.; Troy Schweitzer, OL/DL, 6-1, 230, Sr.; Derek Gaston, OL/DL, 6-2, 220, Sr.; Greg Iverson, QB/DB, 6-0, 180, Sr.; Dustin Marten, RB/DB, 5-11, 160, Sr.; Mitch Gottschalk, WR/DB, 6-3, 170, Sr.; Josh Arnold, RB/LB, 5-11, 180, Jr.; Jacob Holcomb, WR/DB, 5-9, 160, Jr.; Nathan Scott, QB/LB, 6-3, 190, So.
COACHSPEAK: "We have a veteran group and I know they want to surpass what they did last year. We want to challenge for the district championship and get to the playoffs."
2008 SCHEDULE
Sept. -- 5, Gibbon; 12, St. Paul; 19, at Ord; 26, at Ainsworth.
Oct. -- 3, Gothenburg; 10, at Hershey; 17, at Valentine; 23, Cozad.
Burwell
Class: D-1
NICKNAME: Longhorns
DISTRICT: 5
COACH: Luke Gideon
2007 RECORD: 7-4
RETURNING STARTERS: 7
RETURNING LETTERWINNERS: 12
KEY RETURNEES: Ben Reiter, OL/DL, 6-1, 180, Sr.; Cody Gurney, DB, 5-10, 160, Sr.; Derek Snyder, WR, 6-1, 160, Sr.; Darcy Huffman, LB/FB, 6-1, 190, Sr.; Jake Holmquist, RB, 5-10, 160, Sr.; Brian Bird, RB/DB, 5-9, 150, Jr.; Clayton Olcott, DL, 6-1, 220, Jr.
COACHSPEAK: "We were 7-4 last year and a lot of these guys were on that team. If we play as a team like we did last year, hopefully we pick up where we left off."
2008 SCHEDULE
Sept. -- 5, at Callaway;12, Start; 19, at Palmer; 26, Elkhorn Valley.
Oct. -- 3, Newman Grove; 10, at Clearwater/Orchard; 17, at West Boyd; 24, North Central.
Cedar Rapids
Class: D-2
NICKNAME: Tigers
DISTRICT: 6
COACH: Mark Wemhoff (second year)
2007 RECORD: 1-7
RETURNING STARTERS: 8
RETURNING LETTERWINNERS: 8
KEY RETURNEES: Tyler Kennedy, QB/LB, 6-0, 200, Sr.; Mark Swerczek, TE/DE, 6-4, 220, Jr.; Matt Zoucha, OL/LB, 6-2, 225, Jr.; Josh Ritterbush, RB/DB, 5-7, 150, Jr.; Dillon Busch, RB/LB, 5-10, 165, Jr.; Brian Choat, Rb, 6-2, 190, So.; Adam McIntyre, TE, 6-3, 175, So.; Tyler Zentner, TE, 5-8, 145, So.
COACHSPEAK: "We really need to win our first three games. If we can accomplish this we can have the confidence we need to battle against the teams in our district."
2008 SCHEDULE
Sept. -- 5, McCool Junction; 12, St. Mary's; 19, at Heartland Lutheran; 26, Chambers.
Oct. -- 3, at Ewing; 11, at Pope John; 17, Elgin; 24, at Spalding/SA.
Central City
Class: C-1
NICKNAME: Bison
DISTRICT: 7
COACH: Charlie Shoemaker (second year)
2007 RECORD: 5-4
RETURNING STARTERS: 5
RETURNING LETTERWINNERS: 10
KEY RETURNEES: Chris Schuller, QB/S, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Aaron Huston, OL/DL, 6-3, 185, Sr.; Ryan Twehous, WR/L, 6-4, 175, Sr.; Zach Moore, OL/DL, 5-9, 245, Sr.; Levi Dixon, DL/LB, 6-0, 175, Sr.
COACHSPEAK: "We have a good nucleus of skill players back and our line will be fairly good. Depth is an issue as always."
2008 SCHEDULE
Sept. -- 5, David City; 12, at Ord; 19, Fairbury; 26, at St. Paul.
Oct. -- 3, Fillmore Central; 10, at Hastings St. Cecilia; 17, Grand Island CC; 24, at Doniphan-Trumbull.
Centura
Class: C-1
NICKNAME: Centurions
DISTRICT: 8
COACH: Scott Korinek (first year)
2007 RECORD: 0-8
RETURNING STARTERS: 13
RETURNING LETTERWINNERS: 22
KEY RETURNEES: Josh Aitken, Wr, 6-0, 145, Sr.; Eon Lemburg, QB, 6-0, 165, Jr.; Dylan Dewitt, WR, 6-0, 160, Jr.; Jake Coover, LB, 6-0, 165, Sr.; Jarrod Jacobsen, TE, 6-1, 175, Jr.; Mike Heinz, RB, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Jordan Harders, OL, 5-8, 215, Jr.; Tanner Schmitt, OL, 6-2, 220, Sr.; Matt Osburn, LB, 5-10, 205, Sr.; Brad Jensen, OL, 6-1, 230, Sr.; Erik Williams, OL, 5-11, 200, Sr.
COACHSPEAK: "We're looking to improve on an 0-8 season in 2007."
2008 SCHEDULE
Sept. -- 5, at St. Paul; 12, Loup City; 19, at Grand Island CC; 26, Ord.
Oct. -- 3, at Gibbon; 10, Southern Valley; 17, Wood River; 23, at Minden.
Cross Country
Class: C-2
NICKNAME: Cougars
DISTRICT: 7
COACH: Dennis Koinzan (34th year)
2007 RECORD: 5-4
RETURNING STARTERS: 9
RETURNING LETTERWINNERS: 21
KEY RETURNEES: Jared Peterson, TE/DE, 6-3, 210, Sr.; Shawn Prochaska, T, 6-2, 230, Sr.; Tyler Klein, QB/CB, 6-3, 185, Sr.; Isaac Moore, RB/S, 5-11, 175, Sr.; Anthony Snyder, FB/LB, 6-0, 210, Sr.
COACHSPEAK: "We need to stay injury free nad work as a team. We have a good chance to do well."
2008 SCHEDULE
Sept. -- 5, Friend; 12, at Blue Hill; 19, at East Butler; 26, Ravenna.
Oct. -- 3, Sutton; 10, at High Plains Community; 17, Loup City; 23, at Fullerton.
Doniphan-Trumbull
Class: C-1
NICKNAME: Cardinals
DISTRICT: 7
COACH: Brent Breckner (first year)
2007 RECORD: 4-5
RETURNING STARTERS: 6
RETURNING LETTERWINNERS: 17
KEY RETURNEES: Taylor Fjeldheim, QB/S, 6-0, 175, Jr.; Zack Brooks, OL, 5-10, 285, Jr.; Tyler Stephens, OL/DL, 5-11, 230, Jr.; Justin Taylor, DL, 6-0, 190, Sr.; Shawn Lienemann, DB, 5-8, 155, Sr.; Fabian Gomez, DL, 5-9, 230, Jr.
COACHSPEAK: "The move up to C-1 will be a challenging one in a tough district. We will have a young, inexperienced team that hopes to develop quickly."
2008 SCHEDULE
Sept. -- 5, Wood River; 12, at Gibbon; 19, Kearney Catholic; 26, at Grand Island CC.
Oct. -- 3, Hastings SC; 10, at St. Paul; 17, Fillmore Central; 24, Central City.
Elba
Class: Six-man
NICKNAME: Bluejays
COACH: Michael Miller (fourth year)
2007 RECORD: 9-0
RETURNING STARTERS: 6
RETURNING LETTERWINNERS: 7
KEY RETURNEES: Geroge Jensen, C, 6-0, 210, Jr.; Mike Dzingle, RB/LB, 6-0, 185, Sr.; Sean Wysocki, RB/LB, 5-10, 208, So.; Troy Jonak, DB, 5-8, 140, So.; Matt Jonak, DE/TE, 5-11, 165, Jr.; Jeff Wilson, DB/QB, 5-9, 152, Jr.
COACHSPEAK: "The kids' goal is to win another six-man championship. I think if we stay healthy and keep improving that is possible, but there are new teams in six-man and returning teams that will be good."
2008 SCHEDULE
Sept. -- 12, St. Edward; 19, at McPherson County; 26, Greeley-Wolbach.
Oct. -- 3, at Wheeler Central; 10, at Loup County; 17, Arcadia; 24, at Hitchcock County.
Fullerton
Class: C-2
NICKNAME: Warriors
DISTRICT: 7
COACH: Ryan Haughton (fourth year)
2007 RECORD: 3-5
RETURNING STARTERS: 15
RETURNING LETTERWINNERS: 20
KEY RETURNEES: Tom Malander, LB/DB, 6-0, 180, Sr.; Brad Wetovick, WR/DB, 6-3, 180, Sr.; A.J. Shotkoski, WR/DB, 5-10, 145, Sr.; Andrew Bialas, OL/DL, 5-10, 225, Sr.; Ryan Larsen, QB/DB, 5-10, 160, Jr.
COACHSPEAK: "We have a majority of our skill players back. A good receiving corps should balance the offense. A good group of seniors with a lot of experience will help also."
2008 SCHEDULE
Sept. -- 5, West Holt; 12, at Neligh-Oakdale; 19, Twin River; 26, at High Plains Community.
Oct. -- 3, Loup City; 10, at Blue Hill; 17, at Ravenna; 23, Cross County.
Gibbon
Class: C-1
NICKNAME: Buffaloes
DISTRICT: 8
COACH: Jeff Montgomery (eighth year)
2007 RECORD: 0-8
RETURNING STARTERS: 7
RETURNING LETTERWINNERS: 14
KEY RETURNEES: Gil Van Matre, RB/LB, 5-11, 150, Sr.; Alex Lindenstein, TE/DE, 6-0, 170, Sr.; Peter Rasmussen, OL/DL, 6-0, 250, Sr.; Shawn Mitchell, OL/DL, 6-1, 270, Sr.; Jaxson Kenton, OL/LB, 6-0, 180, Jr.; Cody Benge, DB, 5-11, 150, Jr.; Chad Hartman, OL/DL, 6-0, 230, So.
COACHSPEAK: "If we can have some early season success, we'll have a chance to win a few games. We'll rely heavily on our returning linement and must avoid injuries."
2008 SCHEDULE
Sept. -- 5, at Broken Bow; 12, Doniphan-Trumbull; 19, Ainsworth; 26, at Minden.
Oct. -- 3, Centura; 10, Ord; 17, at Southern Valley; 24, at Wood River.
Giltner
Class: D-1
NICKNAME: Hornets
DISTRICT: 7
COACH: Jeff Ashby (second year)
2007 RECORD: 6-3
RETURNING STARTERS: 5
KEY RETURNEES: Ben Harmon, RB, 5-7, 160, Sr.; Brock Hinrichs, LB, 6-1, 160, Sr.; Shay Hinrichs, DB, 5-10, 150, Jr.; Kyle Spotts, WR, 5-11, 150, Sr.; Nate Most, QB, 6-0, 200, Jr.
COACHSPEAK:”Our goal is to qualify for the state playoffs. If our defense improves we'll be a contender for a district championship."
2008 SCHEDULE
Sept. -- 5, Exeter-Milligan; 12, at Palmer; 19, at Heartland High; 26, Franklin.
Oct. -- 3, Kenesaw; 10, at Shelton; 17, at Axtell; 24, Silver Lake.
Grand Island Senior High
Class: A
NICKNAME: Islanders
DISTRICT: 1
COACH: Jeff Tomlin (sixth year)
2007 RECORD: 8-3
RETURNING STARTERS: 10
KEY RETURNEES: Logan Almond, QB/DB, 6-2, 180, Sr.; Tyler Cline, OT/DT, 6-4, 275, Sr.; Nick Hines, TE/DE, 6-2, 215, Sr.; Curtis Hudiburgh, FB/LB, 6-0, 195, Sr.; Cole Kruger, C/DT, 5-11, 240, Sr.; Braden Taylor, FB/LB, 5-9, 200, Sr.; Brandon Tjaden, G/LB, 6-0, 220, Sr.; Nathan Zook, SE/DB, 6-3, 195, Sr.; Jesse Janulewicz, G/DT, 5-8, 215, Jr.; Nathan Westerby, RB/DE, 6-1, 215, JR.
COACHSPEAK: "It looks to be a very promising season. We have a very solid group of seniors who are emerging as very good leaders. As we develop more depth and experience early on, we expect to become a very good football team."
2008 SCHEDULE
Aug. -- 29, at Kearney
Sept. -- 5, Norfolk; 12, Omaha Central; 18, at Lincoln Southwest; 26, at North Platte.
Oct. - 3, Fremont; 10, Lincoln Northeast; 17, at Lincoln North Star; 24, Lincoln High.
Grand Island Central Catholic
Class: C-1
NICKNAME: Crusaders
DISTRICT: 7
COACH: Scott Rezac
2007 RECORD: 8-2
RETURNING STARTERS: 9
RETURNING LETTERWINNERS: 32
KEY RETURNEES: Kelly Zimmerman, LB/G, 6-2, 233, Sr.; Luke O'Callaghan, NG, 5-9, 181, Sr.; Jay Osterbuhr, WR/S/P, 6-1, 174, Sr.; Garrett Coble, LB, 5-9, 175, So.; Tommy Howard, T, 6-6, 255, Sr.; Zach Schroeder, T, 5-10, 257, Sr.; Curtis Gnewuch, C, 6-0, 174, Sr.; Austin Witmer, K, 6-4, 160, Jr.
COACHSPEAK: "We want to find enough wins to get back to the playoffs. We want to extend our season."
2008 SCHEDULE
Sept. -- 5, Superior; 12, at Boone Central; 19, Centura; 26, Doniphan-Trumbull.
Oct. -- 3, St. Paul; 10, at Fillmore Central; 17, at Central City; 23, at Hastings St. Cecilia.
Grand Island Northwest
Class: B
NICKNAME: Vikings
DISTRICT: 6
COACH: Tony Allgood (seventh year)
2007 RECORD: 2-7
RETURNING STARTERS: 11
RETURNING LETTERWINNERS: 16
KEY RETURNEES: Austan Pomajzl, QB/DB, 6-0, 192, Sr.; Ethan Sutzman, WR/DB, 6-4, 175, Sr.; Kevin Roehrich, OL/DL, 6-2, 260, Sr.; Rusty Parsons, OL/DL, 5-10, 280, Sr.; Ben Paige, RB/LB, 5-11, 165, Sr.; Cale Hadan, WR/LB, 6-3, 170, Sr.; Jacob McMahon, WR/DB, 6-0, 165, Sr.; Jordan Roth, FB/LB, 5-10, 190, Sr.; Preston Berger, OL/LB, 5-11, 185, Jr.; Carter Eberhardt, TE/LB, 6-2, 210, Jr.; Morgan Nason, RB/DB, 5-10, 185, Sr.
COACHSPEAK: "We must stay healthy as depth is lacking. Our kids are conditioning to be an ’Iron Man' team -- everyone on our team believes they can play every second of 48 minutes hard."
2008 SCHEDULE
Aug. -- 29, York.
Sept. -- 5, at Columbus Lakeview; 12, Crete; 19, at Ogallala; 26, Holdrege.
Oct. -- 3, at Seward; 10, Aurora; 17, at Adams Central; 24, Hastings.
Greeley-Wolbach
Class: Six-man
NICKNAME: Titans
COACH: William Steele (eighth year)
2007 RECORD: 2-5
RETURNING STARTERS: 8
RETURNING LETTERWINNERS: 15
KEY RETURNEES: Damon Poss, RB, 5-11, 170, Sr.; Tim Brown, DL, 5-10, 170, Sr.; Trent Nekoliczak, B, 5-10, 140, Sr.; Dustin Nordhues, B, 5-11, 160, So.; Pat Kennedy, E, 6-0, 150, Jr.; Travis Nelson, E, 5-9, 150, Jr.; Edmundo Gutierrez, L, 5-10, 180, Jr.; Dakota Hansen, L, 6-0, 185, So.
COACHSPEAK: "Our toughest challenge will be making the transition from eight-man to six-man football.
2008 SCHEDULE
Sept. -- 5, Arcadia; 19, Arnold; 26, at Elba.
Oct. -- 3, Loup County; 10, at St. Edward; 17, at Wheeler Central; 24, Arthur.
Hampton
Class: D-2
NICKNAME: Hawks
DISTRICT: 7
COACH: Jason Kohtz (fourth year)
2007 RECORD: 8-2
RETURNING STARTERS: 5
RETURNING LETTERWINNERS: 9
KEY RETURNEES: Chris Arnett, C/DE, 6-0, 200, Sr.; Alex Sholtz, OL/NG, 5-6, 185, Sr.; Dwayne Wall, WR/S, 6-0, 175, Sr.; Alex Dose, RB/LB, 5-9, 170, Jr.; Austin Peters, RB/LB, 5-10, 185, Jr.
COACHSPEAK: "We look to be very explosive. We want to win the district, go 8-0 and play in Lincoln. We have 26 kids out, which is great."
2008 SCHEDULE
Sept. -- 5, at Harvard; 12, Lawrence-Nelson; 19, at Clay Center; 26, at Pleasanton.
Oct. -- 3, North Loup-Scotia; 10, at Heartland Lutheran; 17, Litchfield; 24, Sargent.
Hastings
Class: B
NICKNAME: Tigers
DISTRICT: 6
COACH: Rick Ripperger (fifth year)
2007 RECORD: 8-3
RETURNING STARTERS: 0
RETURNING LETTERWINNERS: 5
KEY RETURNEES: Cole McCoy, 6-1, 290, Sr.; Evan Krueger, 5-9, 212, Sr.; Andy Butler, 5-7, 160, Jr.; Tyler Wiest, 6-2, 165, Sr.; Jeff Dedrick, 6-2, 190, Sr.
2008 SCHEDULE
Aug. -- 28, at Columbus.
Sept. -- 5, Schuyler; 12, at Scottsbluff; 19, Seward; 26, at McCook.
Oct. -- 3, York; 10, Adams Central; 17, at Aurora; 24, at Northwest.
Hastings St. Cecilia
Class: C-1
NICKNAME: Bluehawks
DISTRICT: 7
COACH: Carl Tesmer (17th year)
2007 RECORD: 9-1
RETURNING STARTERS: 9
RETURNING LETTERWINNERS: 50
KEY RETURNEES: Justin Small, RB/LB, 6-2, 220, Sr.; Matt Sterup, OT/DT, 6-6, 270, Sr.; Zane Anstine, RB/DE, 6-1, 220, Sr.; Nate Young, G/DT, 5-10, 215, Sr.; Jake Hamburger, CB, 6-2, 185, Sr.; Blake Wright, DE/ TE, 6-3, 200, Sr.; Zach Dycus, DE, 6-0, 220, Sr.; Ryan Grafel, OT, 6-1, 195, Sr.; Paul Goedert, OLB, 6-3, 200, Jr.
COACHSPEAK: "We have seven starters on defense, six on offense. Small and Sterup are getting (NCAA) D-1 interest. We have outstanding depth at all positions."
2008 SCHEDULE
Sept. -- 5, at Minden; 12, Fairbury; 19, Columbus Scotus; 26, at Fillmore Central.
Oct. -- 3, at Doniphan-Trumbull; 10, Central City; 17, at St. Paul; 23, Grand Island CC.
Heartland Community
Class: D-1
NICKNAME: Huskies
DISTRICT: 6
COACH: Erik Wetjen
2007 RECORD: 6-3
2008 SCHEDULE
Sept. -- 5, Freeman; 12, at Exeter-Milligan; 19, Giltner; 26, at Shelby.
Oct. -- 3, Palmer; 10, at Osceola; 17, McCool Junction; 24, at Nebraska Christian.
Heartland Lutheran
Class: D-2
NICKNAME: Red Hornets
DISTRICT: 7
COACH: David Plond (third year)
2007 RECORD: 1-7
RETURNING STARTERS: 5
RETURNING LETTERWINNERS: 8
KEY RETURNEES: Josh Messersmith, E/CB, Jr.; Nick Langenburg, FB/LB, Sr.; Jacob Kreutzer, TB/LB, Sr.; Daniel Gibson, G/DE, Sr.; Kyle Dibbern, C/NG, Sr.
COACHSPEAK: "We want to continue to improve in all aspects of the game. We would like to win at least 3-4 games."
2008 SCHEDULE
Sept. -- 5, at Lawrence-Nelson; 12, at Clay Center; 19, Cedar Rapids; 26, at Sargent.
Oct. -- 3, at Pleasanton; 10, Hampton; 17, at North Loup-Scotia; 24, Litchfield.
High Plains
Class: C-2
NICKNAME: Storm
DISTRICT: 7
COACH: Greg Wood (first year)
2007 RECORD: 7-2
RETURNING STARTERS: 4
RETURNING LETTERWINNERS: 8
KEY RETURNEES: Luke Samuelson, QB/DB, 5-8, 145, Sr.; Tanner Kuhn, RB/LB, 5-5, 150, Sr.; Robert Klingsporn, RB/DB, 5-10, 160, Sr.; Mitch Kobza, OL/LB, 6-2, 210, Sr.
COACHSPEAK: "This year's team has the opportunity to be a very good football team, but it will not come without work. With only returning four starters on both sides of the ball and eight players returning that lettered last season we will have to work exremely hard in order to be ready to play at the level of our opponents."
2008 SCHEDULE
Sept. -- 5, at Sutton; 12, at Superior; 19, Malcolm; 26, Fullerton.
Oct. -- 3, at Ravenna; 10, Cross County; 17, Thayer Central; 23, at Loup City.
Kenesaw
Class: D-1
NICKNAME: Blue Devils
DISTRICT: 7
COACH: Craig Schnitzler (eighth year)
2007 RECORD: 5-4
RETURNING STARTERS: 3
RETURNING LETTERWINNERS: 21
KEY RETURNEES: Evan Bender, TE/LB, 6-3, 190, Sr.; Danny Fischer, CB, 5-11, 185, Sr.; Josh Powell, FB/LB, 5-11, 205, Jr.
COACHSPEAK: "We need to get off to a strong start to give our kids confidence going into district play. Our inexperienced players must answer the bell and play smart and hard from day one."
2008 SCHEDULE
Sept. -- 5, Wilcox-Hildreth; 12, at Nebraska Christian; 19, Osceola; 26, Silver Lake.
Oct. -- 3, at Giltner; 10, Axtell; 17, at Franklin; 23, at Shelton.
Litchfield
Class: D-2
NICKNAME: Trojans
DISTRICT: 7
COACH: Dan Bolling (second year)
2007 RECORD: 5-4
RETURNING STARTERS: 5
RETURNING LETTERWINNERS: 6
KEY RETURNEES: Blake Siegel, RB/LB, 5-10, 170, Sr.; Tobin Stithem, FB/LB, 6-0, 180, Sr.; Kevin Unick, QB/S, 6-1, 170, Sr.; Eric Panowicz, 6-0, 190, Sr.; Chase Nilsen, E/DE, 6-3, 195, Jr.
COACHSPEAK: "We look to get better every game by getting our inexperienced line some reps in game situations. As soon as our line develops confidence, our trio of backs should have a ver good year."
2008 SCHEDULE
Sept. -- 5, Loomis; 12, Sumner-Eddyville-Miller; 19, at Ansley; 26, at North Loup-Scotia.
Oct. -- 3, Sargent; 10, Pleasanton; 17, at Hampton; 24, at Heartland Lutheran.
Loup City
Class: C-2
NICKNAME: Red Raiders
DISTRICT: 7
COACH: Nick Hodge (third year)
2007 RECORD: 0-8
RETURNING STARTERS: 9
RETURNING LETTERWINNERS: 16
KEY RETURNEES: Ryan Elsner, FB/LB, 5-11, 190, Sr.; Jordon Badura, QB, 6-2, 175, Sr.; Wesley Spotanski, DT, 6-1, 190, Sr.; Bobby Smedra, OT/DT, 6-5, 200, Sr.; Cale Harrington, DE, 6-1, 170, Sr.; William Becker, G/LB, 5-9, 180, Jr.; Jordan Smith, WR/LB, 6-2, 165, Jr.; Jamie Roy, WR/S, 6-2, 160, Jr.
COACHSPEAK: "We've played good teams the last two years with 13 of 16 opponents making the playoffs. We've competed well in most of those games. However, we're tired of that. We're ready to cahllenge and win each week."
2008 SCHEDULE
Sept. -- 5, Southwest; 12, at Centura; 19, Elm Creek; 26, at Superior.
Oct. -- 3, at Fullerton; 10, Ravenna; 17, at Cross County; 23, High Plains.
Loup County
Class: Six-man
NICKNAME: Wildcats
2007 RECORD: 5-3
2008 SCHEDULE
Sept. -- 5, at Minatare; 12, at Hitchcock County; 19, Wheeler Central; 26, Arcadia.
Oct. -- 3, at Greeley-Wolbach; 10, Elba; 17, at St. Edward; 24, Sioux County.
Nebraska Christian
Class: D-1
NICKNAME: Eagles
DISTRICT: 6
COACH: Carl Ostrand (second year)
2007 RECORD: 1-7
RETURNING STARTERS: 7
RETURNING LETTERWINNERS: 11
KEY RETURNEES: Braden Swanson, RB, 5-8, 155, Sr.; Casey Rose, LB, 5-10, 175, Sr.; Ben Thiessen, E, 6-6, 195, Sr.; Ray Johnson, DT, 6-0, 200, Sr.; Elliot Murphy, E, 6-2, 170, Jr.; Darren Holzinger, P, 6-0, 195, Sr.; Jarrod Thiessen, QB, 6-0, 155, So.
COACHSPEAK: "Many young players gained valuable experience last year. Our schedule will be challenging."
2008 SCHEDULE
Sept. -- 5, at Silver Lake; 12, Kenesaw; 19, at Leigh; 26, Palmer.
Oct. -- 3, Osceola; 10, at McCool Junction; 17, at Shelby; 24, Heartland High.
North Loup-Scotia
Class: D-2
NICKNAME: Wildcats
DISTRICT: 7
COACH: Dennis Hurlburt (first year)
2007 RECORD: 2-7
RETURNING STARTERS: 7
RETURNING LETTERWINNERS: 13
KEY RETURNEES: Jordan Linke, L, 220, So.; Armando Tamayo, RB, 180, Sr.; Michael Larsen, RB, 155, Jr.; Matt Stachura, RB, 200, Sr.; Paul Stachura, L, 190, Jr.
COACHSPEAK: "We are going to be young but hope to hold our own."
2008 SCHEDULE
Sept. -- 5, Sumner-Eddyville-Miller; 13, at Pope John; 19, Spalding/SA; 26, Litchfield.
Oct. -- 3, at Hampton; 10, at Sargent; 17, Heartland Lutheran; 23, at Pleasanton.
Ord
Class: C-1
NICKNAME: Chanticleers
DISTRICT: 8
COACH: Jordan Curney (first year)
2007 RECORD: 5-4
RETURNING STARTERS: 7
RETURNING LETTERWINNERS: 20
KEY RETURNEES: Ben Welniak, OL/DL, 6-3, 225, Sr.; Jacob Zawller, OL/DL, 6-0, 240, Sr.; Jesse Baldwin, RB/LB, 5-10, 185, Sr.; Todd Welniak, TE/DE, 6-6, 200, Sr.; Mike Jonak, RB/LB, 6-2, 195, Sr.; Blake Augustyn, 6-1, 170, Jr.; Ryan Callan, WR/DB, 6-3, 160, So.
COACHSPEAK:”We feel that our strength on both sides of the ball will be on the line and as we develop our skill players we will improve each week as a team."
2008 SCHEDULE
Sept. -- 5, at Gothenburg; 12, Central City; 19, Broken Bow; 26, at Centura.
Oct. -- 3, Wood River; 10, at Gibbon; 17, at Minden; 23, Southern Valley.
Osceola
Class: D-1
NICKNAME: Bulldogs
DISTRICT: 6
COACH: Jerry Caraway
2007 RECORD: 3-5
RETURNING STARTERS: 7
RETURNING LETTERWINNERS: 14
KEY RETURNEES: Landon Hayes, QB/S, 6-3, 160, Sr.; Cody Stowe, WB/LB, 6-2, 175, Sr.; Kramer Watts, LB, 5-10, 150, Sr.; Tony Cliffords, OL/DL, 6-2, 195, Jr.; Dillon Hadcock, OL/DL, 5-11, 180, Jr.; Zach Oquist, OL, 5-10, 220, So.; Brandon Johnson, DL, 5-11, 210, So.
COACHSPEAK: "We have plenty of depth except for the specialty positions. The experience at those positions will be hard to replace."
2008 SCHEDULE
Sept. -- 5, at Humphrey; 12, Shelton; 19, at Kenesaw; 26, McCool Junction.
Oct. -- 3, at Nebraska Christian; 10, Heartland High; 17, Palmer; 24, at Shelby.
Palmer
Class: D-1
NICKNAME: Tigers
DISTRICT: 6
COACH: Nathan Glause (third year)
2007 RECORD: 9-1
RETURNING STARTERS: 5
KEY RETURNEES: Jack Wardyn, DL/OL, 6-3, 280, Jr.; Riley Santin, LB/FB, 6-0, 190, Jr.; Tyler Wichmann, DB/QB, 6-3, 160, Jr.; Alex Christensen, DE/TE, 6-3, 215, Jr.; Nathan Doggett, DB/TE, 5-9, 150, Jr.
2008 SCHEDULE
Sept. -- 5, at Elkhorn Valley; 12, Giltner; 19, Burwell; 26, at Nebraska Christian.
Oct. -- 3, at Heartland Community; 10, Shelby; 17, at Osceola; 24, McCool Junction.
Ravenna
Class: C-2
NICKNAME: Bluejays
DISTRICT: 7
COACH: Mark Hudson (fifth year)
2007 RECORD: 6-3
RETURNING STARTERS: 6
RETURNING LETTERWINNERS: 15
KEY RETURNEES: Gavin Jager, OL/DE, 5-11, 195, Sr.; Adam Mingus, FB/LB, 5-11, 180, Sr.; Michael Bohn, OL/DT, 6-2, 235, Jr.; Josh Crowell, S, 5-10, 180, Jr.; Brett Douglas, G, 6-1, 220, Jr.; Gerrett Wells, CB, 5-10, 160, Jr.
COACHSPEAK: "If we stay healthy, we should be competitive in our district and contend for a playoff spot."
2008 SCHEDULE
Sept. -- 5, at Elm Creek; 12, Kearney Catholic; 19, at Sutton; 26, at Cross County.
Oct. -- 3, High Plains; 10, at Loup City; 17, Fullerton; 23, Sandy Creek.
Sargent
Class: D-2
NICKNAME: Bulldogs
DISTRICT: 7
COACH: Mike Kozeal (11th year)
2007 RECORD: 4-5
RETURNING STARTERS: 7
RETURNING LETTERWINNERS: 17
KEY RETURNEES: Cole Fenske, C, 6-0, 208, Jr.; Heath Gumb, G/DT, 6-0, 215, Sr.; Jesse Sutton, G/De, 6-0, 170, Sr.; Sloan McIntosh, E/LB, 6-1, 155, Sr.; Luke Tobias, E/S, 6-1, 170, Sr.; Spencer Sinner, QB/S, 6-0, 150, Sr.; Hunter, Baillie, FB/LB, 5-10, 170, Sr.; Joe Hickman, IB, 5-9, 155, Sr.
COACHSPEAK: "I think that we can be very good this year. We will need to be more physical on defense and improve our special teams play."
2008 SCHEDULE
Sept. -- 5, Anselmo-Merna; 12, at Sandhills/Thedford; 19, Mullen; 26, at Heartland Lutheran.
Oct. -- 3, at Litchfield; 10, North Loup-Scotia; 17, Pleasanton; 24, at Hampton.
St. Edward
Class: Six-man
NICKNAME: Beavers
2007 RECORD: 2-6
2008 SCHEDULE
Sept. -- 5, at Arnold; 12, at Elba; 19, Arthur County; 26, Wheeler Central.
Oct. -- 3, at Arcadia; 10, Greeley-Wolbach; 17, Loup County; 24, at McPherson County.
St. Paul
Class: C-1
NICKNAME: Wildcats
DISTRICT: 7
COACH: Travis Brouillette (sixth year)
2007 RECORD: 1-7
RETURNING STARTERS: 4
KEY RETURNEES: Louis Poss, QB/S, 6-2, 175, Jr.; Brett Wells, TE/LB, 6-4, 195, Sr.; Jordan Heusinkvelt, FB/LB, 6-4, 230, Sr.; Ben Lewandowski, C/LB, 5-10, 185, Sr.
COACHSPEAK: "We don't return a lot of starters but we do return several players who saw considerable time in games. We expect to improve on our record and work to contend for a district title and a return to the playoffs."
2008 SCHEDULE
Sept. -- 5, Centura; 12, at Broken Bow; 19, at O'Neill; 26, Central City.
Oct. -- 3, at Grand Island CC; 10, Doniphan-Trumbull; 17, Hastings St. Cecilia; 23, at Fillmore Central.
Shelton
Class: D-1
NICKNAME: Bulldogs
DISTRICT: 7
COACH: Scott Ritterbush (first year)
2007 RECORD: 1-7
RETURNING STARTERS: 6
RETURNING LETTERWINNERS: 10
KEY RETURNEES: Cody Webben, QB, 6-1, 175, Sr.; Rory Wilkinson, RB/S, 5-8, 140, Sr.; Dalton Thyfault, WR, 6-1, 165, Sr.; Michael Clevenger, RB/DB, 5-7, 150, Jr.; Travin Claflin, RB/LB, 5-11, 180, So.; Tanner Hawks, OL/DE, 5-11, 170, Jr.
COACHSPEAK: "We need a tremendous effort in practice. If we take care of the basics, of ourselves, we will be in good shape."
2008 SCHEDULE
Sept. -- 5, at Overton; 12, at Osceola; 19, Loomis; 26, Axtell.
Oct. -- 3, at Franklin; 10, Giltner; 17, at Silver Lake; 23, Kenesaw.
Spalding/Spalding Academy
Class: D-2
NICKNAME: Knights
DISTRICT: 6
COACH: Troy Kleffner (11th year)
2007 RECORD: 8-2
RETURNING STARTERS: 5
RETURNING LETTERWINNERS: 19
KEY RETURNEES: Miles Ray, B, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Justin Stevens, B, 5-11, 165, Sr.; Cory Valosek, L, 5-11, 225, Jr.; Scott Glaser, E, 6-0, 175, Sr.; Kurtis Langer, L, 5-11, 235, Sr.
COACHSPEAK: "We play in a very tough district. If we can manage to stay healthy we should compete."
2008 SCHEDULE
Sept. -- 5, at Humphrey St. Francis; 12, Lindsay Holy Family; 19, at North Loup-Scotia; 26, Elgin.
Oct. -- 3, at Chambers; 10, Ewing; 17, at Pope John; 24, Cedar Rapids.
Twin River
Class: C-1
NICKNAME: Titans
DISTRICT: 6
COACH: Jeff Linden
2007 RECORD: 1-7
2008 SCHEDULE
Sept. -- 5, Pierce; 12, at Milford; 19, at Fullerton; 26, David City.
Oct. -- 3, at Boone Central; 10, at Centennial; 17, Columbus Scotus; 23, Madison.
Wheeler Central
Class: Six-man
NICKNAME: Broncos
2007 RECORD: 4-4
2008 SCHEDULE
Sept. -- 5, South Platte; 12, at Arnold; 19, at Loup County; 26, at St. Edward.
Oct. -- 3, Elba; 10, at Arcadia; 17, Greeley-Wolbach.
Wood River
Class: C-1
NICKNAME: Eagles
DISTRICT: 8
COACH: Derek Garfield (second year)
2007 RECORD: 3-5
RETURNING STARTERS: 12
RETURNING LETTERWINNERS: 15
KEY RETURNEES: Dustin McCord, L, 6-0, 200, Sr.; Aaron Roberson, L, 6-3, 240, Jr.; Josh Yilk, L, 6-4, 20, Sr.; Clint Lambrecht, OL/LB, 6-0, 220, Sr.; Tyson Brown, QB/LB, 6-1, 195, Sr.; Jonny Martin, FB/LB, 5-10, 180, Jr.; Taylor McTavish, TB/CB, 5-8, 140, Sr.; Dylan Gill, TE/LB, 5-11, 175, Sr.; Shad Smith, TE/LB, 6-0, 180, Jr.; Lucas Boshart, WR/DB, 6-1, 170, Sr.; Michael Dibbern, WR/DB, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Andrew Bauer, DB, 5-10, 170, Sr.
COACHSPEAK: "We want to be more consistant on offense. Our line has to step up big for us."
2008 SCHEDULE
Aug. -- 29, Gothenburg.
Sept. -- 5, at Doniphan-Trumbull; 12, at Fillmore Central; 26, Southern Valley.
Oct. -- 3, at Ord; 10, Minden; 17, at Centura; 24, Gibbon.
