Rhino859

Played for a high school team that used the sticker reward system, and they were awarded for number of tackles, INT's, forced or recovered fumbles, defensive scores, and yes big hits. Also played college ball for a school that used the sticker award system and every sunday the "hammer" award was given out for the biggest hit from the day before. The trophy was an actual sledge hammer that the player would have the honor to keep in their locker for the week. We also had a "nail" award for the person on the team who got blown up (it was usually an offensive player, and we always had fun with that one during film session) I played defense, and had the mentality of a Butkus, Tatum or Lambert, I wanted to run through the ball carrier, not just tackle him. If he was taken out of the game, so be it. With that being said, I never intentionally tried to injure someone, and I do not agree with that what so ever. All of the years I played ball, never once did I have a coach tell me or any of my team mates to "take someone out" I was always taught to play hard and clean; and whatever happens is a natural consequence of playing a VIOLENT game.. I'll always remember the first thing my dad told me when I started playing at a young age and that was "whoever is going the fastest, won't get hurt" We need to keep in mind that we are playing a violent game.. and just because a few people decided to tarnish it with this "bounty" noise does not mean that every team on all levels are doing it.. Rewarding a player with a sticker on his helmet for clean and hard play is not the same as saying "I'll give you 1500 bucks to hurt Peyton Manning".. C'Mon guys..

Very impressive career for Coach Badida.. I've know him for years, I didn't realize he was the only coach that Conner has ever had, that's amazing. He has turned out some great individual wrestlers, as well as teams.

I have heard that he has had several D1 coaches visit him at school. He has been on the radar since last summer combine tours. He has made some Jr day visits and has been invited to several others. The 20+ schools of interest range from D1 -D1AA - DII. His size is deceiving @ 6'1" & 194#, so far. You may be correct on playing DB/Safety at the next level. Whatever level that may be. BTW - He was also invited to try out for next years USA U19 team in Chicago. Cameron & Drew should have some fun this fall. Only time and hard work will make the difference.

Barker has quite a few schools looking at him.. The kid is 16 years old I believe, and will continue to grow and mature as a player, and as a young man.. Expect a lot of noise to be made this year in Hebron, Barker has several weapons at his disposal, thus drawing more attention to him. He will play D1 (if he so chooses)... And as far as a player choosing to play at Thomas More, or Georgetown.. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that. If I am not mistaken both programs are year in and year out in the hunt for a national title in their respective divisions (D3 & NAIA). Nothing wrong with a kid wanting the opportunity to win a ring. Not to mention both schools are stellar academic institutions. Can't play ball forever, education is something that can never be taken away..

Agreed.. The internet has made things so much better for the high school athlete. I remember when I was being recruited, I had to splice together VHS tapes in order to make a highlight film to mail off to colleges. Now it's as easy as sending a hyperlink. I really like to see these young players getting the exposure they deserve. Far too many kids, who have the talent to play at the next level, were simply overlooked becasue schools had not seen or heard of them. Now a kid can send a school his/her highlights from Hudl or Youtube.. It's a great thing.

I've seen this kid play.. He's quick laterally, and pretty fast north and south (100 meter state champ i believe). The post about him loving the cut back is spot on. Taking the right pursuit angle on this kid is crucial, otherwise he will leave you hugging air. Put a few good hits on him, and the cut backs will stop though. He's got a promising athletic future.

Clyde is correct.. Cameron started as a Sophomore, played J.V. as a freshman. These highlights are all from last season, his Junior year. He had a big year in 2011, will be looking for an even bigger 2012