H.S. Football Preview (Ashland) — Can high note carry Tomcat t

ocky Stanley / The Independent An impressive effort against powerhouse Highlands in the second round of last year’s playoffs left a positive, lasting impression on Ashland’s football team.

The Tomcats pulled within one score of the eventual 4A state champs on Quinton Baker’s 63-yard scoring run with 9:18 remaining.

Though Highlands added a touchdown in the closing minutes to win 30-15, Ashland walked away feeling encouraged and with its opponent’s respect.

Highlands coach Brian Weinrich called the Tomcats a “great team,” while Bluebirds star running back Nick Kendall heaped praise on his counterpart from Ashland. Baker carried for 239 yards including two long-distance scores.

Tomcats coach Tony Love said the performance inspired his team in the offseason.

“At Ashland, we’re not into moral victories,” said Love, “but playing an elite team we took the approach of ‘keep things simple, and let the kids play.’ They bought into that philosophy.

“There’s been a huge carry-over with our players. It’s been a huge motivator. They know we are close to being an elite team. The message the coaching staff is conveying is that it doesn’t just happen because you have talent. It requires a lot of work.”

H.S. Football Preview (Ashland) ? Can high note carry Tomcat tune? - The Independent Online: Sports