ALLSTAR MVP

Here's another side note, Campbell didn't have there starting middle b or nose the hole scrimmage.

Jones was a really good High School player.......as a sophmore ! But, I agree that one player won't create their high stature/ranking. I wouldn't however say they are "weak" or have only 2-3 average players to support Jones. I believe Scott, and jr's Hegge,Young, and Buckler among others would qualify as quality returning players. They will need to solidify some pitching needs (who don't) to compete for any District/regional titles but will still field a nice team. No shame in losing to a decent Birds team last year but a tough Newport squad and NC will make it a challenge to get out of the Districts. Probably not a top 5 but don't underestimate a talented team with a stud like Jones in the middle..........to bad he doesn't pitch !

Unless, of course there are more transfers ..............?????

Well, you could start with the '95 team that certainly upset a Covcath squad and made a run for the state title would be an example.........some others mentioned X, Male, T, TM (OH)......But for the doubters, I would bet some CovCath (& LexCath)faithful would have to admit that they thought their team was better than HHS in several different years in the "Dale" era yet stayed home after a tough loss to the Birds .........bet it kinda felt like the '97 Birds squad felt I'm sure.

Don't recall the the circumstances about the late entry to the field but do recall the tear away jersey (made famous in that era by Pruitt of Cleveland Browns fame) Anyway, short recollection of the HHS game and season was the 2-4 start that had the season turned around by the fumble recovery by Kenney Pabst against archrival NewCath (yes, before CCH knew what football was! LOL ....actually CCH beat HHS that year 31-7) anyway, the team was heavily dependent on underclassmen and really was a rebuilding season. It was however, a season when the seniors put it together and led the team to the playoff run they enjoyed. I have some recollection of a late fumble or INT by QB Stafford that stopped a late opportunity for HHS ?? Exciting game and exciting season for the Birds to even make it that far. Recall that this was the era of the infamous "sub-districts" that only required HHS to beat favored Newcath 15-8 and Newport 21-0 the following week to make the playoffs. Unfortunately that same format cost a very talented '80 team to miss out on playoffs due to a lone loss to a good Newport squad. (can you believe a 9-1 team not making playoffs in Ky. !!!!!!) (BTW. IMO '80 may be the best HHS team to not win it all ....other than '97 team.....but I digress !)

Don't recall the the circumstances about the late entry to the field but do recall the tear away jersey (made famous in that era by Pruitt of Cleveland Browns fame) Anyway, short recollection of the HHS game and season was the 2-4 start that had the season turned around by the fumble recovery by Kenney Pabst against archrival NewCath (yes, before CCH knew what football was! LOL ....actually CCH beat HHS that year 31-7) anyway, the team was heavily dependent on underclassmen and really was a rebuilding season. It was however, a season when the seniors put it together and led the team to the playoff run they enjoyed. I have some recollection of a late fumble or INT by QB Stafford that stopped a late opportunity for HHS ?? Exciting game and exciting season for the Birds to even make it that far. Recall that this was the era of the infamous "sub-districts" that only required HHS to beat favored Newcath 15-8 and Newport 21-0 the following week to make the playoffs. Unfortunately that same format cost a very talented '80 team to miss out on playoffs due to a lone loss to a good Newport squad. (can you believe a 9-1 team not making playoffs in Ky. !!!!!!) (BTW. IMO '80 may be the best HHS team to not win it all ....other than '97 team.....but I digress !)

Unfortunately, Newport Rec. no longer exists and they therefore do not have maintenance assigned for after hours and weekends. They can only maintain fields during the regular work day. It is a real shame as they invested "real" money and were on the way to a "showcase"- type facility. The fields were in great shape as Nick Rouse & Co. did a great job making them playable. I have to agree that coaches should not be allowed to work on the fields though as it is the quickest way to ruin a field. Take the rain-outs and be thankful that the fields are as nice as they are now........and Red would be proud! BTW. City tourney games are scheduled based on which Districts are competing (you cannot play at home) and there are City games played on these fields every year.

Ryan is a quality kid ....................the move is legit and justified and not an issue for KHSAA, period. I know CovCath will support Ryan's move and he will be fine at HHS again. Good Luck to this fine young man.

Hello.........did we all forget Bubba Mallery ! The hardest hitter from that position I recall. If I'm not mistaken, he anchored that crew for three years including an '81 State Championship

Unfortunately, there is only the one left locally........... located off #32 Eastgate. For those that remember, the decor is exactly the same, don't think they have done anything except cook food in there for the last twenty plus years! It is humble at best, but the food is terrific ! Privately owned/operated by two brothers but remember to bring cash, no credit accepted, no kidding! Trust me on this though, worth the drive as the food is terrific, Double R or Roast beef and HOT holster of fries..... great Christmas tradition to shop Eastgate and eat at Roys......we buy extra and microwave at home!

Sorry kids but after watching last years State Finals, would have to strongly agree that LCA should be preseason #1. Beechwood has fine tradition and finds a way to be there in the end BUT.........if LCA doesn't end up with penalties and with they have returning personnel-wise AND the very sophisticated offense schemes that are as well executed as last year, the will be a favorite to win. As mentioned other teams have plenty of returning players, not sure they can match the quality of LCA returning player that fell just short last season.

You gotta love speculation, but a lot can change in a year. Many of these kids are still growing, maturing, and sometimes just starting to realize what it takes to be a player. Players are made in the summer.......teams are made in Oct. There WILL be some suprises next year! I've heard a few names mentioned out there but I'll try to add to the list. First, there are a couple of good teams from '07-'08 that had upper classmen that kept some potential on the bench. The Holmes kids are obvious and abundant. We have heard plenty about the Boone kids (happen to think a couple are a tad over-rated) but Cotton is overlooked and may outshine some of his more hearlded teamates. CovCath has some hidden talent including Wellbrock and I've always like Stephen Wilson too. Highlands also has the littlest kid with the biggest heart in Zack Lother and a sleeper in Corey Dill. NewCath has a super athlete that will put plenty on the board the next two years in Shaun Meyer. Some others to mention include Dylan Greene from Pendleton who always plays hard: Roenker, the three sport star at Holy Cross, and love the Bryan kid from Villa. AND guess what there's more !......... we'll have to see who walks out of the gym after this summer and made themselves a player ! As far as teams go....Newport is under-rated with McDaniel developing nicely and everyone returning. If they can find true leadership and not accept some of the "talented" disruptions back to their team they could be a contender. Short add on the top ten list............to early to tell (as I've discussed here) but I would have to state that some players mentioned simply got opportunity to show their skills on smaller or lesser talented teams so don't jump the gun. Also Mitch McLiesh is going to be a very solid player....could be a legitimate top ten/fifteen player next year as he is a very hard working & focused kid.

What a tourney ! Congrats to Mason on surviving. That is what happens at the Sweet Sixteen...surviving. A lot of discussion on fatigue, past "survivals" to get to the finals, etc. The make-up of this tournament does not always produce the "best team;" but it does produce a winner and they are to be commended for their Championship -- hang that banner! That being said, don't ever discount the effort of those that fell along the way. Many "best teams" have fallen, through the years, well short of even participating in the championship game. For those willing to belittle the accomplishments of a great run of the runner-up Bulldogs, ask yourself this: If Holmes was just matched on the regular season schedule v. Mason or LexCath, how many on here would have picked the dogs to win either game, much less beat them both...IN THE SAME DAY?! Mason Co. and Holmes survived this year and both should be honored for what they accomplished.

Sticking with my original feeling......if the Dawgs got by LexCath, the State Championship will come North ! Awesome job today, this squad has all the special qualities of a champion......poise, leadership, good decision-making, depth, and quality kids; not to mention great coaching. Go Bulldogs..........the 9th Region is behind you!

ER....don't think I don't like you from previous posts, I am on board with your assessment of Holmes for this year ! I agree that Holmes will beat Paintsville and has potential to go all the way in this tourney. I saw the end of Paint/Jtown and although impressed, don't see them staying with the Bulldogs. I saw Paintsville struggle with pressure and it wasn't the equivalent to what the Dogs play. Sloan is a real threat but his twenty won't be enough..........Dogs by 12 although it could stay interesting for awhile. If they play unselfishly and continue smart decision-making like last night, they can compete with anyone. A LexCath match-up could be could be an "instant classic" .......and if they pull that off I predict a State Championship.