D1 Football

NEW Ownership, NEW Attitude

2010-09-27T20:36:00.003-04:00

D1 Football has undergone a metamorphosis over the past year. Several former key members of our staff decided they had enough of the process and wanted to move on while the rest of us still have that "football desire."

The name, the logo and the process were retain by the current owner and rest assured, D1 Football experience will be around for a long time. Helping area youth and high school players get the most out of football and maybe even take their game to the next level.

Off-season camps, post-high school assistance, tailgate events and of course the "Northeast Ohio High School Football Combine" will remain on the scene.

This season alone has offered up some great memories already with the Charity Game tailgate festival as well as the Lake Catholic / Benedictine pre-game extravaganza!

Our players know we're still the real deal. No more boyish games...this is a man's sport and will be treated that way.

Join us on the field, in the stands and on Facebook and Twitter. The website was temporarily hijacked by former staffers but a new, better looking site has been completed and will be airing shortly.

Ahh yes, football season cometh!

2009-06-02T21:49:00.004-04:00

We're taking a very early look at the upcoming season, but also looking back and seeing where some of "our boys" are heading to play in college.

D1 Football is very, very proud to work with our area's fine young talent all season long, but this season we amped up the off-season training a bit and had a stellar program at Lost Nation Sports Park. Over 30 schools had their teams represented in workouts that kept the kids fresh and kept their desire for football burning. We also witnessed some of our players take big steps in moving on to the next level. Here's a list of those off to college from the class of 2009 that we had the pleasure of being a part of their journey:

Randy Greenwood (Lake Catholic) - University of Akron
Patrick Nicely (Willoughby South) - University of Akron
Neil Perko (Kirtland) - Lake Erie College
Schyler Chappell (Kirtland) - Lake Erie College
Ben Madden (Kirtland) - John Carroll
Kyle Smith (Kirtland) - Ohio Northern University
Jeffvron Gill (Euclid) - University of Buffalo
Rossi Santo (Kirtland) - Edinboro
Andrew Pisorn (Kirtland) - Grove City College
Vinny Hokavar (Perry) - Case Western Reserve University
Torry Treu (Kenston) - Davidson College
AJ Holderman (Kenston) - Robert Morris College
Andre Wells (VASJ) - Lake Erie College

Congratulations to all of you and best of luck in your upcoming college experiences. WE WILL BE WATCHING YOU.

On to the upcoming season of northeast Ohio high school football.

A VERY early look ahead with mini-camps right around the corner. We start off down in D-V where Kirtland looks to return to the post-season and get a ring after coming so close last year losing a heart-breaking regional title game to Ursuline 18-17. The Hornets should be set to roll in the Valley Division of the CVC, but the post-season might be interesting as division rival Berkshire is now D-V along with former D-IV champ Coldwater and cross-county VASJ. The loss of key components from last year's stellar 10-0 team, including players and coaches, will be tough to replace, but Tiger LaVerde can get the most out of his players.

Keeping with the CVC, Chagrin Falls looks to be a favorite in the CVC, plus they drop to D-IV. The Iamarino brothers team up for what should be a competitive season to say the least for the Tigers. Another CVC Chagrin team, Wickliffe, has been flying below the radar in the wake of seasons of 1-9, 1-9 and 2-8 under very uninspired coaching staffs. This season looks to change all of that. P.J. Insana comes back to take the helm of his alma mater and is joined by an all-star cast of coaches, 7 of whom were former St. Joseph Vikings players of coaches. From red horns to blue this group is on a mission to help these kids find the passion that is football and get them winning again to jump start this program.

All is not lost in Lake County as Lake Catholic looks to rebound from a season of injury and a miss at the post-season. Head coach Mike Bell is confident that he and his staff have the kids ready. They've been working hard in the off-season, some with us here at D1, and they have one goal. Get back to winning and find the post-season. Mentor also needs a composure fix after the playoff beating they took at the hands of Strongsville last year to end a great 2008 campaign. Never say never with Steve Trivisonno. Willoughby South sees Cal Rainey take the reins from Pat Nicely and they have a ton of team speed. Watch out for these "runnin' Rebels in 2009.

Out west, Strongsville loses Kellen Pagel to graduation and must fill that void at QB, but our buddy Russ Jacques knows how to win, no matter what. Chico IS the man and St. Ignatius is the team to beat in D-I this year. No more talk of teams from down south until they can handle the Wildcats. Look for the "Holy War" to mean something this year as the St. Edward Eagles take flight with a new defensive-minded head coach in Ricky Finotti and the expert offensive play calling of Joe Perella.

In the city of Cleveland and the Senate in particular, keep an eye on John Hay. They are returning to Varsity football after a very long time out of the lights. We're not expecting them to come in and be gang busters, but we worked with this class group of young men all off-season and we think they have the fire burning and we believe they will open some eyes this year on the road back to football. We know they'll be baby steps, but as you know babies make a lot of noise.

Other teams to keep and eye on this season starting this spring with mini-camps:

Aurora - "Another title for the Greemen after losing so much beef?"

Chardon - "Can they get back to their winning ways?"

Mayfield - "How much will losing Finotti dampen the defense of the Wildcats?"

Perry - "We know Air Hokavar is gone, but can we get deeper into the playoffs boys?"

Glenville - "Will they ever win a playoff game beyond round one?"

Euclid - "Still hungry?"

Eastlake North - "Will they ever make it to the post-season?"

Solon - "Have the Comets lost their fire?"

Kenston - "Do we need to get out the shovels now?"

Richmond Heights - "Will they even have a team this year?"

Streetsboro - "Can the magic continue this year?"

Brunswick - "Manco is off to Lake Erie College, but count on these Blue Devils to be in the hunt again"

and YES BOYS...THE "DAMNED GOOD DOZEN" WILL RETURN TO STIR UP MORE CONTROVERSY THIS SEASON!!!!!! Here's how last year wrapped up : FINAL DGD

THE NEW "ZIPS!"

2009-02-04T15:43:00.011-05:00

A D1 FOOTBALL EARLY EXCLUSIVE!!!

Former Lake Catholic standout Randy Greenwood along with Willoughby South QB Patrick Nicely and Rebel lineman Josip Vidovic signed their Letters of Intent today to accept scholarship offers to the University of Akron. The three area athletes joined together at Willoughby South High School this afternoon in front of friends, family and the media for the usual photo op and interviews. The thing that made this day special were the young men themselves. A very nice group of kids on and off the football field. True gentlemen.

Dotting I's and crossing T's

Watch the videos

Randy Greenwood is just simply anxious to get back to football after sitting out his senior season with a leg unjury. The class act by Akron to stand true in their offer not only speaks volumes about head coach J.D. Brookhart, but opens up the door for Randy to realize his dream to play D-1 football and be a part of a special time in Zips' football. Akron will open up a new stadium with some fresh local talent and a renewed outlook on taking over the MAC.

Vidovic, Greenwood and Nicely

Patrick Nicely, coming off a great senior year realizes that he'll have to sit and learn early on, but also knows that's the process and it's for the best. This kid is ready to win! It's nice that he'll have one of his high school linemen there with him too along the way.

The players and their high school coaches

A very proud Greenwood family

Introducing new Akron WR Randy Greenwood!

D1 Football and northeast Ohio are proud of you guys!

This is a very nice day for northeast Ohio football as a whole as we get to have renewed hope that out young talent will once again bring forward the notion of this area being the "Cradle of High School Football" as they move on to their college careers. Gentlemen, D1 Football and ALL of you coaches, fans and the rest of northeast Ohio wish you all health and success in your promising young futures. Do right by mom and dad. Get it done in the classroom. THEN go lights out on the football field. Be proud of what you have accomplished becasue we are proud of each one of you.

RANDY GREENWOOD TO SIGN LOI TO AKRON!

2009-02-02T20:28:00.014-05:00

Former Lake Catholic High School standout Randy Greenwood will sign his Letter of Intent to accept a scholarship at the University of Akron this week.

The 2008 season was pretty rough on Randy as a preseason leg injury prematurely ended his high school career. Through surgery and rigorous rehabilitation, RG is back up to speed and even playing basketball this season. There's no doubt in his level of conditioning and committment.

In 2007, Randy helped lead the Cougars to the D-III Region 9 Title and on into the State Semi-Finals where they would fall victim in the last minutes of the game to Licking Valley. No matter where he lined up on the field he was always a threat! Running back and defensive back were the norm, but throw in a little receiver, punter and quarterback and, well, he very much emulated his hero, "Superman" on the football field.

Talent runs very deep in the Greenwood family. Randy younger brothers are also very talented athletes at Fairport Harbor.

Now, Randy moves on from high school to take hold of his dream to play NCAA Division-I college football at the University of Akron. Coach Brookhart and the Zips have truly landed a class act on and off the football field.

Randy and several other prominant area high school players took part in several youth football camps to "give back" to the community. "He is never put out by helping out the younger kids when asked," says D1 Football Director of Football Operations Rusty Bliss, who's worked with Randy the past couple of years. "Randy well deserves this scholarship opportunity not only because of the type of athlete he is, but because of the type of young man he has become. He's gone through a year of hell and he's made his way back and now he's on the verge of taking the next big step towards his dream. He's a great role model for these younger players," said Bliss.

Randy will say goodbye to northeast Ohio high school football after graduation and become a piece in a bigger puzzle. The Zips have a new stadium and a new outlook for their future in the MAC. The team is geared up to win and the way that they stood by their committment to Randy after his leg injury shows nothing but class on the university's part. Coach Brookhart would love nothing better than to start building with local talent from northeast Ohio.

Look out Mid American Conference, Randy Greenwood is coming at you!

From those of us who have watched you up close grow over the years, we wish you nothing but the best in following your dream! Good luck RG.

It's On! 2009 Starts with a Bang!

2009-01-25T20:43:00.004-05:00

D1 FOOTBALL TRAINING BEGINS FRIDAY JANUARY 30TH AT LOST NATION SPORTS PARK!

Those who will attend this 3 month event will be treated to some of the most comprehensive, personal "football specific" training in northeast Ohio.

If you haven't made plans to join us and you're still interested, contact us at ufc@d1football.net or just simply show up for the Open House on Friday the 30th.

AREA COLLEGE PROSPECTS!!! GET US YOUR VIDEO!

Send us your highlight and game films on DVD and we'll get them posted online on our SCOREBOARD page. Send us photos too and when you see your "D1 Trading Card" photo on the scoreboard, click on it and the world will see your video!

Players/Parents wishing to order SCOUT PACKS make sure you include at least three photos and as many stats as possible. Also contact your school counselor for a copy of your transcripts so we can include those too.

D1 Football Skills Training featuring "QB1"

2008-12-04T21:21:00.016-05:00

D1 Football brings you off-season football skills training that helps you keep your edge in the off-season. When spring and summer workouts begin YOU'LL BE READY!

OPEN TO ALL AREA FOOTBALL PLAYERS, high school, middle school and even college players home from school....DON'T LOSE YOUR EDGE THIS OFF-SEASON!

Guys, lift at school with your teammate! Nothing is more important to a contender than the true TEAM concept. AFTER THAT...

Join us at Lost Nation Sports Park Friday evenings from 4-6pm for D1 Football and Skills Training. Stay in shape during the off-season. Work on your speed. Work on skills by position, take part skill challenges. This year we will feature "QB1", the areas most complete quarterback skill training session. All aspects of becoming the complete quarterback will be covered.

In addition to quarterbacks, all positions will be covered by our staff that includes former college and professional players along with area high school coaches!

The cost is $200 for 16 sessions or $20.00 per visit. In addition to the training you'll also receive:
- T-shirt
- Your secure online athletic profile
- Your athletic assessment via a combine to be held in March
- Initial recruiting consultation
- Additional gear provided by some of our sponsors.

D1 Football Training will help keep you conditioned and in shape both physically and mentally during the off-season. If you are interested in either please e-mail us at ufc@d1football.net or call 216-214-3390. We have already received an overwhelming number of calls so don't miss out on this tremendous opportunity to help take your game to the next level.

What to bring with you:
-Turf shoes, tennis shoes, cross trainers, etc. NO CLEATS!
-If you have a standard size football you want to bring, the more the better.
-A football attitude

Feel free to call or e-mail with any questions and stay updated at www.d1football.net and check the SCOREBOARD for updates on area high school football all year round.

Now's the Time!!

2008-12-02T16:37:00.004-05:00

College coaches are going through the influx of film and transcripts they've received from now until after the bowl season ends and you should already have your "packages" in the mail. Don't fret if you haven't, you still have time. We can help you.

The SCOUT PACK from D1 Football has drawn great reviews from college coaches who know what they're looking for and they get a great preview of the student-athlete from the information provided in the SCOUT PACK. Dozens of coaches have seen it already this year and they truly appreciate the concept.

Your SCOUT PACK includes:
1. YOUR cover letter
2. YOUR athletic profile
3. A copy of YOUR highlight and game DVD
4. YOUR transcripts (if provided)
5. Letters of recommendation
6. Any relevant news articles
...bound together to use as a mailer or to take on college visits as YOUR athletic resume.

E-mail us at ufc@d1football.net or go to D1 Football for details.

PRICES:

If you order before January 1st
1 SCOUT PACK (6 packages) - $100.00
2 SCOUT PACKS (12 packages) - $150.00

We will put the package together for you, ship it to the college(s) of your choice and even provide a follow-up letter. We want you to get the most out of your athletic experience.

"The SCOUT PACK can be used as a mailer or as the centerpiece of your college visit!"

IT'S OFFICIAL - MADDEN WINS!

2008-11-08T23:39:00.023-05:00

The 2008 Northeast Ohio High School Player of the Year goes to Kirtland quarterback Ben Madden, who all season long provided outstanding leadership on and off the field and directed the Hornets to the Division 5 regional title game.

Before the season started, you could see Madden's leadership really start to come out. Especially after the Hornets thought that star player Rossi Santo would start the season injured. "Niner" as he's known to his friends and teammates, did his part to work the rest of the offense into the Tiger LaVerde's gameplan and held his own again on defense at linebacker too. Coincidentally he was named Defensive MVP for Lake County for 2008.

Down the stretch you could see him emerge even more as the team made their final push toward the playoffs and a perfect 10-0 regular season, a first for Kirtland High School. In the opening playoff game against South Range, Ben "rushed" for 262 yards and 5 touchdowns and threw for 112 more plus another score leading the team to a 63-7 victory in round one. The following week against Columbiana Crestview he threw for 4 more touchdowns and the team passed yet another landmark for the school and reached the regional title game where they faced off against Youngstown Ursuline.

"The Best Protection a Quarterback Can Have"

Through the first 12 games (10 plus playoffs so far), Ben has possessed a quarterback rating of 210.06 (NCAA). He's completed 56% of his passes for 1576 yards and 24 touchdowns with only 2 interceptions. He has also rushed for 722 yards and 14 touchdowns. Ben has 2298 yards of total offense accounting for nearly half of the Hornet total. The kid is also a standout linebacker who carries his leadership ability to the defensive side of the ball as well being among the leaders in tackles and recording 3 interceptions.

It's not hard to find quality, real quality players in Division 5, but too many times we are force-fed a majority of Division 1 standouts that fail to encompass the TOTAL PLAYER. This is not a knock on them, but when you put it all into perspective and match the individual accomplishments with the team's and just what that player does for his team, teammates and the school as well as the people and coaches around him, you get to see the little things that compliment the stats and Ben "Niner" Madden has all of those. His peers saw it this way as did fans and coaches alike. It tightened up a bit among the top three as we headed into the playoffs, but with the focus on them, they separated from the pack and we ended up here on Monday morning November 10th.

VOTING* RESULTS:

Madden: 31%
Kellen Pagel - Strongsville: 26%
Tim Wetzel - Mayfield: 15%
Andrew Holland - St. Ignatius: 15%
John Pettigrew - Cuyahoga Valley Christian: 7%
Mike Hanhauser - Perry: 6%
*1244 total votes received in all from online polls, e-mail votes, gameday surveys on-site of other players, fans and 37 area coaches. NO MEDIA VOTES.

Congratulations to Ben and his teammates on a tremendous regular season and a great run at Region 17! You guys made history for your school and your community.

THE AWARD

Previous winners:
2007 (Inaugural Season) - Randy Greenwood, Lake Catholic High School

Kirtland Signal Caller Ben Madden

2008-11-05T20:57:00.006-05:00

Signal caller to say the very least. What doesn't Ben Madden do? Quarterback, linebacker, kicker and team leader to name just a handful.

Ben has led the Fighting Hornets of Kirtland to the D-5 Regional semi-finals in round two of the playoffs with great leadership. A season that began with team superstar Rossi Santo out for the first game with 3 fractured vertebrae, Madden and his teammates stepped up big time to start what would become a record setting season for the Hornets. 10-0 perfect regular season and a 63-7 win in round one over South Range, the team that beat the Hornets last year in round one. Ben had a 208.8 QB rating at the regular season's end with 18 TD passes to only 2 interceptions. He also ran for 9 touchdowns!! Consider his passing stats - 1324 yards - were short changed because he was out of the offense by halftime of a majority of the Hornets' games this season, he could have easily recorded even bigger numbers. He also was atop team tacklers on defense plus he recorded 3 interceptions and handled some of the kicking duties with 2 field goals and 11 PATs. As far as post-season goes so far this season, NOBODY IN OHIO HAS HAS COME CLOSE TO BEN MADDEN'S STATS.

Together with a healthy Rossi Santo, the powerful O and D lines anchored by the Chappel brothers and a hard hitting defense led by Madden and fellow line backer Neil Perko, the Kirtland Hornets very well could be on the verge of something VERY SPECIAL this season. The team just needs to remain seriously focused and up to the task as they know the bar gets raised with each playoff game.

WR/DB Dominic Samf, Madden
and RB/FS Rossi Santo

All around, "Niner", as he's known to his friends and teammates, is a great leader on and off the football field. Also a very talented athlete on the gridiron as well.

"Niner" let's fly during a mid-season
route of Richmond Heights

Ben Madden - Kirtland
"Wicked Sick Numbers!!"
6 of 11 passing 112 yds, 1 TD
15 carries 262 yards 5 TDS vs. South Range in round one

It Comes Down to This

2008-10-29T18:20:00.009-04:00

The 2008 "Northeast Ohio High School Player of the Year" award will soon be announced and the top three finalists are:

Tim Wetzel - Mayfield
35 carries 171 yards and 2 touchdowns in round one.

Ben Madden - Kirtland
"Wicked Sick Numbers!!"
6 of 11 passing 112 yds, 1 TD
15 carries 262 yards 5 TDS vs. South Range in round one.

Ben has led the Fighting Hornets of Kirtland to the D-5 Regional semi-finals in round two of the playoffs with great leadership. A season that began with team superstar Rossi Santo out for the first game with 3 fractured vertebrae, Madden and his teammates stepped up big time to start what would become a record setting season for the Hornets. 10-0 perfect regular season and a 63-7 win in round one over South Range, the team that beat the Hornets last year in round one. Ben had a 208.8 QB rating at the regular season's end with 18 TD passes to only 2 interceptions. He also ran for 9 touchdowns!! Consider his passing stats - 1324 yards - were short changed because he was out of the offense by halftime of a majority of the Hornets' games this season, he could have easily recorded even bigger numbers. He also was atop team tacklers on defense plus he recorded 3 interceptions and handled some of the kicking duties with 2 field goals and 11 PATs. As far as post-season goes so far this season, NOBODY IN OHIO HAS HAS COME CLOSE TO BEN MADDEN'S STATS.

All around, "Niner", as he's known to his friends and teammates, is a great leader on and off the football field. Also a very talented athlete on the gridiron as well.

Kellen Pagel - Strongsville
13 of 22 191 yds 3 TDS
Great arm...great leader...poise under pressure...

Who will come away with the "Northeast Ohio High School Player of the Year" award for 2008?

We'll find out in one week!!

D1 Football's "Damned Good Dozen"

2008-10-25T19:39:00.015-04:00

While the predictability of most northeast Ohio news rag top "25" teams is very obvious, we look at football from some different angles. NO MEDIA DARLINGS HERE nor will our list be comprised exclusively of Division-I primadonna blow-hards.

We look deeper than that. We don't care about the name of your school. We want to see players with heart and passion for the game. Not a group of kids that think they deserve to be page one because they go to "St. Play Nobody." We're not aiming for the popular vote. We look into the players and coaches. We look at what they've done to get where they are. We actually watch them on and off of the field. We look at the kids that bust their asses out there and give 110%!

WE'RE GIVING YOU A REALITY CHECK! We realize not many of you can handle reality, but here it is. Not everyone can be #1 boys!

The regular season is over......in our eyes these are the "Damned Good Dozen" after 10 weeks of God's Greatest Game:

1. Strongsville Mustangs (9-1) Kellen Pagel and Eric Dworznik did their thing on the ground to aid in the Mustangs shutout of visiting Solon. In doing so they moved into the top spot in D1R1 points pending the outcome of the Ignatius/Eds game and eliminated the Comets from playoff contention. Great game...even better season. The shutout was a great exclamation mark for what was truly a special season. Time to run it deep into the post-season. It only gets tougher now boys.

2. Youngstown Ursuline Fighting Irish (10-0) Devil be damned, the Irish took on everybody and sent them packing. Next up, the Cuyahoga Heights Redskins in what could be a decent opener for both teams if they come to play!

3. Kirtland Hornets (10-0) We don't care what people may say about the CVC or the "so-called" small school divisions, you can't discount a 10-0 record in northeast Ohio, you just can't. Nor can you take anything away from it. These kids play with an unheard of passion and desire. DREAM MATCH-UP - vs. Ursuline! Mark these words.

4. Mayfield Wildcats (9-1) Six straight shutouts until this week. A relentless defense, probably the best around and a team with great tradition getting it all to come together this year again. A full head of steam and learning from the mistakes of last season's playoff opener should give these Cats a good advantage going into round one.

5. Mentor Cardinals (8-2) Simply put, peaking at the right time...AGAIN. What more can you say about coach Triv's gang of warriors. Bring it in round one boys!

6. St. Ignatius Wildcats (9-1) The "other" Wildcats finally put together some "quality wins" and moved their way up one more notch. Some of us still feel they are yet untested with true competition.

7. Brunswick Blue Devils (9-1) A lone loss to arch rival Strongsville their only blemish, the Devils want to make another deep run and through their region and beyond. Could we see a rematch with the Mustangs? That would be beyond a thrilling storyline.

8. Youngstown Cardinal Mooney (8-2) The Cardinals took care of business and went down to the wire to get into the post-season fray knocking off Columbus DeSales in the regular season finale. Mooney knocks Akron St. Vincent/St. Mary out of 8th place in points in the OHSAA standings to make it in. Great win Cards!!

9. Perry Pirates (9-1) The only way senior fireballer Vinny "Air" Hokavar could end his career any better would be with a ring. Even though he's been logging time at wideout, the shoulder should hold up in order for the Pirates to make a deep run if they can stay healthy.

10. Willoughby South Rebels (8-2) They've been left off this list too many times this year while we "waited to see what they would do next week," but they have proven that they are a solid, playoff worthy team. The Rebels could face either Mentor or Strongsville in round one, so regardless, they'll be tested right away in a big way!

11. Padua Bruins (8-2) The Bruins have picked up major momentum heading into round one and their regular season schedule should have them prepared for almost any scenario they might face. Andrew Dziak was the consummate leader all season long and it has been a true joy for us at D1, who have worked with this fine young man, to watch him develop over the last few years. Great kid and a very nice family.

12. Walsh Jesuit Warriors (7-2) Quietly going about their business (of winning games), the Warriors secured the top spot in their region and will have to wait until Sunday to see who their round one opponent will be. These guys have always been favorites of ours and now they can get it running smooth in time for post-season head banging.

JUST MISSED:

Aurora came close, but beating up on Wickliffe then claiming to be the best in the CVC just rubbed too many people the wrong way when we spoke around the town. Euclid.....our friends in Panther country head into the post-season with a bad taste in their mouths and the memory of an unsung Boardman team coming to Euclid last year and snuffing out their dream. We have faith that Tommy Gibbons will have the cats ready to prowl next week. We put a lot of faith in St. Edward at the start of this thing because of the greater Cleveland area "glory teams" they actually played a schedule worthy of being the talk of the town. Tough way to head into the playoffs Eagles. We want to give props to the NDCL Lions who clawed their way into the playoffs as well. Great work Byron.

Kellen Pagel continues to excel!

2008-10-24T10:53:00.004-04:00

We told you back in September that Strongsville quarterback Kellen Pagel should be highly considered when discussions for Mr. Football Ohio are brought up and he continues to be deserving of the recognition.

The son of former Browns, Colts and Rams quarterback Mike Pagel, possesses a completion percentage of 65% ( 90 of 139), 1712 yards accounting for 17 touchdowns, only 4 interceptions thus far and 4 rushing touchdowns which puts him among the top signal callers in northeast Ohio. The only QB qith a better TD to INT ratio is Kirtland's (9-0) Ben Madden who has thrown only one pick all season. His NCAA quarterback rating sits at 202.8 (134.95 in the NFL)! Not bad for his first full year as a starter. He even wears his father's number 10 (his own decision according to dad) and he's a really great kid on and off the field.

The 6'3" 190 pounder has led the Mustangs to an impressive 8-1 record heading into the finale of the regular season tonight against Solon and they have a shot to lock down a home playoff game with a win. This has been a thrilling year for Strongsville football fans including a big win against Brunswick and even despite a heart-breaking loss to St. Edward in the opener the Mustang faithful have much more football to look forward to in the post-season.

Kellen Pagel is really tearing it up his senior season and deserves to be in the running for Mr. Football Ohio by all accounts. He also has his team in contention of running away with the D1 Football "Damned Good Dozen" title for the regular season as well.

Go to the D1 SCOREBOARD for updates on Kellen Pagel and the rest of northeast Ohio high school football all weekend and on through the playoff brackets!!!...FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF FORMER PLAYERS AND CURRENT COACHES WHO LIVE THE GAME.

Our Tribute to Great High School Football Movies

2008-10-21T13:51:00.014-04:00

The weather is changing and you can really feel autumn in the air. The regular season is fast drawing to it's end. The post-season is fast approaching. THIS is high school football. Nothing can trump it this time of year.

D1 Football realizes the deep love of this great sport in all of the fans, players and coaches here in northeast Ohio. Our passion for the game, we believe, is unrivaled anywhere in the country. We all go back and forth about which teams are better. Who beat who and which teams will or won't make the playoffs, etc. As much as we all may disagree on issues, as we all have our own favorite teams and programs that we cheer for and support, WE ALL HAVE ONE THING IN COMMON AND IT IS THE UNDYING APPRECIATION OF HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL.

Hollywood has made several movies about high school football and we are all truly fans of these. We picked 5 of the most common that we want to salute for the part they play in the true fabric of America.

"Friday Night Lights"

is the 2004 movie that documents the coach and players of a high school football team and the Texas city of Odessa that supports and is obsessed with them. The book on which it was based, Friday Night Lights: A Town, a Team, and a Dream, was authored by H. G. Bissinger and follows the story of the 1988 Permian High School Panthers football team as they made a run towards the state championship. A television series inspired by the movie — also called Friday Night Lights — premiered on October 3, 2006 on NBC. This movie ranked number 37 on Entertainment Weekly's list of the 50 Best High School Movies

"Remember the Titans"

is a 2000 American sports drama based on true events and takes place in Alexandria, Virginia, in 1971, at brand new desegregated T.C. Williams High School. Herman Boone (Denzel Washington) is hired as head coach for the school's football team, taking the place promised to former head coach Bill Yoast (Will Patton). Yoast at first refuses Boone's offer of a position as assistant head coach, but then changes his mind. The black and white members of the football team clash in racially-motivated conflicts on a few occasions throughout their time at football camp, but after forceful coaxing and team building efforts by Coach Boone, the team manages to achieve some form of unity, as well as success.

The main conflict is taken to a personal level by the portrayal of the conflict between Gerry Bertier (Ryan Hurst) and Julius Campbell (Wood Harris), two players of equally outstanding athletic ability, but different ethnic backgrounds, who at first can't stand one another but eventually become sworn brothers (the turning point of their relationship becomes a focal point for the team in its racially divided ways giving way to true unity). Upon return from camp to school, the team runs through its regular season competition undefeated while battling the racial prejudice that was then typical of, though not exclusive to, the American South.

All American player Gerry Bertier is paralyzed in an automobile accident while celebrating one of the later team's victories. Although Bertier is no longer able to play, the team goes on to win the championship, setting an example for the town in the process. The football team wins the AAA State championship game in Roanoke, and is first runner up in the national championship. Bertier later goes on to win a gold medal in the shotput event at the Paralympic Games. Ten years later, the team reunites at the end of the film to attend Bertier's funeral, after he was killed in another auto accident.

"Varsity Blues"

is a 1999 film that follows a small-town high school football team and their focused coach through a tumultuous season. The players must deal with the pressures of adolescence and their football obsessed community while having their hard coach on their back constantly. In the small town of West Canaan, Texas, football is a way of life, and losing is not an option.

Varsity Blues drew a domestic box office gross of $53 million. Its budget was estimated at $16 million.

"Wildcats"

is a 1986 motion picture starring Goldie Hawn and costarring Jan Hooks and Swoosie Kurtz. It also features LL Cool J and is the first film to feature Wesley Snipes & Woody Harrelson. They also appeared together in White Men Can't Jump and Money Train.

Molly (Goldie Hawn), is the daughter of a famed football coach who's dying to head her own team. When her wish is finally granted, Molly leaves her job coaching girl's track at an affluent junior high to take over a football team at an inner-city high school (Central High School)--the kind of place where guard dogs are needed to patrol the campus. At first the new coach’s idealism and optimism are suffocated with racial and gender prejudice, but eventually her overriding spirit begins to whip her unruly team into shape. At the same time, she must also struggle to win a battle for the custody of her two young daughters.

OUR ALL-TIME FAVORITE HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL MOVIE:

"All the Right Moves"

is a 1983 drama/romance film directed by Michael Chapman and starring Tom Cruise, Craig T. Nelson, Lea Thompson, Chris Penn, and Gary Graham. It was filmed entirely on location during WPIAL football season in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, and Pittsburgh. It joins Slap Shot as another sports film classic filmed in both locales.

He has everything at stake - He can't afford to lose - He's got to make all the right moves.

Tom Cruise's character, Steffen "Stef" Djordjevic, is a high school defensive back seeking a college football scholarship to escape an economically depressed small Pennsylvania town

Most of the film takes place after the big football game against undefeated Walnut Heights High School. Ampipe appears headed to win the game, when a fumbled handoff in the closing seconds leads to a Walnut Heights victory.

Following the game Coach Nickerson (Craig T. Nelson) lambastes the fumbler in the locker room, telling him he "quit". When Stef (Tom Cruise) retorts that the coach himself quit, the coach kicks him off the team. In the immediate aftermath of the game disgruntled Ampipe fans vandalize Coach Nickerson's home/yard. Stef is present and is a reluctant participant but is nonetheless seen by Coach Nickerson as the vandals flee. From there, Stef deals with personal battles, including dealing with the coach blacklisting him among colleges because of his attitude and participation in the desecration of Coach Nickerson's yard.

Meanwhile, Stef's teammates deal with personal battles as well, including one who decides to marry his pregnant girlfriend, and another arrested for armed robbery.

Later, Stef frustrated by what Nickerson did, angrily confronts his former coach. In the end, Nickerson realizes he was wrong for blacklisting Stef, and informs him that he's accepted a coaching position at Cal Poly. He also offers Stef a full scholarship in engineering.

These are some of our favorites and we pay them tribute for being part of the tradition that is high school football in America.

Give us your feedback if you have a favorite by responding to this post with your own comments below. We'd love to hear of other movies we may have missed.

To all of the teams in Northeast Ohio that will complete their regular seasons this weekend, thank you for another great season. To those teams that will move on into the post-season, Play hard, give 110% on the field for YOUR teams, schools, coaches and fans, but more importantly give 110% for yourselves gentlemen.

Good luck to all of you!

2008 Northeast Ohio High School Player of the Year award

2008-10-18T21:44:00.008-04:00

Last year we trademarked this great award and it went to Randy Greenwood from Lake Catholic. Randy began this season in the running until an injury forced him to miss the entire 2008 season.

This season we've been looking at several worthy candidates, some of which include, but are not limited to: Tim Wetzel (Mayfield), Kellen Pagel (Strongsville), Ben Madden (Kirtland), Rossi Santo (Kirtland), Mike Hanhauser (Perry), Derrell McCaleb (Lakewood) and Andrew Holland (St. Ignatius) to name a handful.

This year's title sponsor of the award is Global Intermed. Our sponsor Oakley has also provided us with some gear for the package too. The winner will receive the trophy, a t-shirt, a performance football shield and a premium pair of sunglasses(with hard case) and a "Planet Pack" backpack to carry it home in. All from Oakley! (plus more to be added).

The Northeast Ohio High School Player of the Year trophy

Oakley "Flak Jacket XLJ" sunglasses

Oakley Performance Football Shield

"Planet Pack 2.0" backpack from Oakley

The winner will be determined like last year, through random surveys of coaches, players and fans at various games we attend as well as e-mail voting, website polls, etc. It is unique in that NO MEDIA sources vote for this award. Rather we have YOU do the voting and we make the announcement after the REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP GAMES making it also the first award of the year to be handed out.

Go to the website and vote, E-MAIL US at ufc@d1football.net or catch us at a game this year and tell us who YOU think should be on the list.

D1 Football's "Damned Good Dozen"

2008-10-18T18:13:00.016-04:00

While the predictability of most northeast Ohio news rag top "25" teams is very obvious, we look at football from some different angles. NO MEDIA DARLINGS HERE nor will our list be comprised exclusively of Division-I primadonna blow-hards.

We look deeper than that. We don't care about the name of your school. We want to see players with heart and passion for the game. Not a group of kids that think they deserve to be page one because they go to "St. Play Nobody." We're not aiming for the popular vote. We look into the players and coaches. We look at what they've done to get where they are. We actually watch them on and off of the field. We look at the kids that bust their asses out there and give 110%!

WE'RE GIVING YOU A REALITY CHECK! We realize not many of you can handle reality, but here it is. Not everyone can be #1 boys!

9 weeks of God's greatest game have brought us this far:

1. Mayfield (8-1) Yes they lost to Olmstead Falls early in the season and this was a very hard decision to place them in the top spot, but you simply cannot argue with 6 straight shutouts by the defense run by coach Ricky Finotti. Simply the best around thus far. Talk about "shutdown defense." WOW. Oh yeah, did we mention Tim Wetzel scored again.....

2. Strongsville (8-1) You'd have to show me serious proof of a better quarterback in northeast Ohio than Kellen Pagel for us to believe you. He currently has an NCAA QB rating of 202.8! Not bad for his first full year as a starter. This kid is a winner and a true "player." Solid, poised and far too under-rated. Give him his credit and give coach Jacques the credit for putting together a terrific squad worthy and ready for a deep playoff run.

3. Youngstown Ursuline (9-0) You can say they struggled against Mooney, but we see it as if they battled the Cardinals in the very hard fought game of defense. Outstanding group of well coached, disciplined young athletes.

4. Kirtland (9-0) Not very hard to keep the Hornets near the top as they are worthy of the recognition and respect, BUT this team needs no accolades. They are hungry and focused. A one game playoff run simply isn't enough for them. They want it all and they may get their shot.

5. Mentor (7-2) For the last month the Cardinals have been playing at playoff intensity. Coach Triv (and yes WE can call him that) needs to keep the boys locked in and allow no slip ups. It's full steam now men.

6. Brunswick (8-1) The Blue Devils rebounded after their loss to Strongsville, but Mentor has the nod based on their intensity level this week. Brunswick will be a big horse in the home stretch we know that for a fact.

7. St. Ignatius (8-1) Iggy struggled to get to overtime with St. X this week, but pulled it out. They finally survived a worthy opponent this season and are gearing up for the playoffs.

8. Akron St. Vincent/St. Mary (7-2) Playoff fever has struck THESE Irish too! An exclamation mark put on their big win this week is proof of that. Next week it's just another game for these guys....BUT it's against Ursuline. Good luck.

9. Euclid (7-2) Staying put at the 9 spot, but screaming like a heat-seeking missile into the playoffs are the Panthers. Our buddy Tommy Gibbons has the defense pumped and our guy Donald Bell leads the fierce attack at linebacker for Euclid!

10. Youngstown Cardinal Mooney (7-2) The Cardinals slip quite a bit, but in all honesty they just got caught in a surge of wins over their tough loss to Ursuline. They'll be a force in the playoffs.

11. Aurora (7-2) The Greenmen make a small move up as they continue to surge their way to the post-season. Although easily bragged about regular season wins are nice, the Greenmen will see a whole new ballgame come playoff time.

12. Padua (7-2) The Bruins are back! Andy Dziak has led that team through thick and thin this year and against very tough opposition. They locked into conference play and it was all said and done for the NCL teams...Padua reigns supreme as the class of the North Coast League.

OH SO CLOSE:

St. Edward players and fans can put this one on the coaching. There comes a time when to kickoff deep and when to squib it. This was the time for the squib guys. Hell, you had the game won!

Just Missed:

NDCL is very close to jumping onto this list as they are peaking at a critical time. A 31-14 knockout and second straight win over rival Lake Catholic is not a fluke. Willoughby South keeps on burying teams on their way to the post-season. Perry, Walsh and Streetsboro all continue to play well in the home stretch!

Stay locked in to the website SCOREBOARD and the FORUMS for updates and football talk all the way to championship weekend.

Kirtland's Mini-Hornets Wrap up Outstanding Season!

2008-10-10T23:39:00.004-04:00

The Kirtland Middle School Hornet football teams (7th and 8th grade) completed their 2008 campaigns this week as the 7th graders took it to Aurora's 7th grade team to the tune of 38-12. The combined records of both middle school teams are 13-1. The 7th graders went a magnificent 7-0 this year!

It has been a special season indeed for the entire "Hornet's Nest." The varsity team is 8-0 thus far, the JV is 7-1, 8th grade finished 6-1 and the 7th graders finished perfect at 7-0. OVERALL HORNET RECORDS TO DATE 28-2! WOW.

The Kirtland Mini-Hornets got to take part in the pre-game run-in with the Varsity before the Hornets dismantled Berkshire 56-6 in front of a standing room only crowd at The Hornets' Nest as the varsity rolled to 8-0 and maintained it's second place points standing behind powerhouse Youngstown Ursuline.

More fun from the pre-game at Kirtland.

Remember these names: Mitchell Allen, Sam Kukura, Hunter McGonnell, Anthony Veneri, Ryan Loncar, Erik Guhde, Sammy Smith, Mike "The Warrior" Cymbol, Canon Schroeder, Domenic Camino, Aaron "Baby Niner" Madden, Brad Blankenship, Dan "The Rabid Chihuahua" Thomas, Shane Campbell, Jon McCollister "Mr. Reliable", Anthony DeCarlo, Angelo Luciano, Ian Cosgrove, Jon Schnur, Kevin Neibecker, Bernie Hupp, Christian Saban, Tudor Donca, Jacob "It's not Delivery" DiDonato, David Warren and Chase Frazee . These 7th graders are going to hit the scene in a big way. They are all friends and have grown together as a team and they have each other's backs.

Some notables:

Defensive Co-MVPs - Canon Schroeder (6 sacks, 1 blocked punt), Mike Cymbol (3 sacks, 2 INT)

Offensive MVP - Ryan Loncar

As for the 8th graders...these names may be getting some mention next year in the JV and maybe...varsity ranks. Bob Matthews, Sam Welborn, Damon Washington, Josh Imarino, Mitchell Yarborough, Mitchell Ayres, Mitch Seelinger, Scott Eilerman, Joey Schenosky, Rocky Calvert, PJ Miller, Alex Skiljan, Jeremy O'Brien, Evan "The Freight Train" Brettrager and the Hamilton brothers, Zack and Dylan.

For their coaches, it was a great honor and privilege to share this season with each and every one of you.

Hang on Hornet Nation. The Hive is Alive!!! The current team is tearing it up and the future isn't far behind.

"Kirtland Hornet Football....Catch The Buzz!"

D1 Football's "Damned Good Dozen"

2008-10-10T14:29:00.014-04:00

While the predictability of most northeast Ohio news rag top "25" teams is very obvious, we look at football from some different angles. NO MEDIA DARLINGS HERE nor will our list be comprised exclusively of Division-I primadonna blow-hards.

We look deeper than that. We don't care about the name of your school. We want to see players with heart and passion for the game. Not a group of kids that think they deserve to be page one because they go to "St. Play Nobody." We're not aiming for the popular vote. We look into the players and coaches. We look at what they've done to get where they are. We actually watch them on and off of the field. We look at the kids that bust their asses out there and give 110%!

WE'RE GIVING YOU A REALITY CHECK! We realize not many of you can handle reality, but here it is. Not everyone can be #1 boys!

God this is a great game!!! After week 8 here's how we see it with two weeks of regular season chaos to go:

1.Strongsville (7-1) The very big, solid, hard-earned win over Brunswick catapults the Mustangs past Ursuline this week to the top spot. Kellen Pagel has got to be a solid contender for the Mr. Football Ohio Award. This kid has poise, a great arm and leadership. They need to keep it all rolling into the playoffs and keep their focus.

2. Youngstown Ursuline (8-0) Bottom line is that this team FEARS NO ONE. They never complain. They are disciplined, tremendous athletes that are well coached and they go out each week and take on WHOEVER STANDS IN THE WAY. You can say, "oh they're Division-5", but right now, this team could wipe Ohio with any team from any division, no questions asked! Prove us wrong.

3. Mayfield (7-1) It's simple. 5 straight shutouts for the Wildcats, the latest a 35-0 route of Cuyahoga Falls on Friday. Tim Wetzel has established himself among the elite on offense and defense and is the current front-runner for the "Northeast Ohio High School Player of the Year".

4. Kirtland (8-0) We've caught a little flack for this one, but prove us wrong! Prove them wrong! The Hive is Alive and the Hornets are stinging the competition enroute to the post-season and, like Ursuline, is D-5 and they don't care who they line up against. Rossi Santo sky rocketed himself back onto the scene of the elite with a tremendous 6 touchdown performance Friday as the Hornets tore through Berkshire 56-6 to remain the ONLY unbeaten team in Lake County.

5. Youngstown Cardinal Mooney (7-1) "Not in our house!" was the cry heard when the Irish of St. Vincent/St. Mary came in Saturday night. The Cardinals imposed their will from the outset and should climb past SVSM in points as they did in this list. Great win and 2 more big ones to go including the big match-up with Ursuline next week.

6. Brunswick (7-1) You had to wonder who, let alone when this team would lose to and Friday night we watched as Kellen Pagel and the Strongsville Mustangs dismantled the Blue Devil defense in a thriller 25-20. We don't expect them to be down for long though.

7. St. Ignatius (7-1) Well here they come. The other Wildcats got a little revenge for the north by stomping Cincinnati LaSalle 50-0 in a blowout of epic proportions. They need to keep momentum now headed into the playoffs.

8. Mentor (6-2) Steve Trivisonno does not let his team give up. An up and down season until a couple weeks ago has turned into a repeat of the last two with the Cardinals steam rolling teams enroute to the post-season. The road seems a bit tougher this year.

9. Euclid (6-2) This was a tough call for us to make, but considering the way the Irish lost to Mooney it took a little pressure off. Great defense has been getting it done for the Panthers and head coach Tom Gibbons. Great, great overall team play. They may yet get another shot at Mentor.

10. Akron St. Vincent/St. Mary (6-2) What should have been a great game to watch turned into a bore-fest in the first half as Mooney exploded early and never looked back. The Irish were just off and they need to shape up quick because their schedule doesn't get too much lighter with University and the finale with Ursuline.

11. St. Edward (6-2) Tumbling all the way to number 11 is rough, but the utter letdown they allowed against St. X is just sad. C'mon Eagles!!! You're a better team than this and you better start proving it.

12. Aurora (6-2) Looky looky here at who bumped Perry out of the rankings, for this week at least. The Greenmen might have gotten it together in time for a late run to the top of OHSAA points in time for the playoffs as they trounced Chagrin Falls in what SOME people may have categorized as a big game in the CVC......we'll give you props just the same...for now.

OH SO CLOSE....

Perry remains in the thick of it at 7-1 and will still have to finish strong and stay healthy for the post-season. Padua is close to a return to the list too after destroying VASJ 35-7 Saturday night. Bruin QB Andrew Dziak did everything he could to make the Vikings defense look "lost." Streetsboro got back in the win column and hold solid at 6-2. Our boys at Walsh took it to another favorite of ours when they topple Benedictine this week. It look like playoffs might be an afterthought now for the Bengals. NDCL...WOW...the Lions are in the very think of the playoff hunt and despite their record, could garner a spot on our list based on work ethic alone. Speaking of work ethic...Willoughby South has been among those making waves this season quietly hitting their playoff stride too.

All in all we are totally jacked up to see the end of the regular season unfold. It's also about time area media get their heads on straight and give up the media darling crap and give Strongsville QB Kellen Pagel some credit in his bid for Mr. Football Ohio. Get over the crap guys and watch REAL football!

D1 Football will be watching!

Don't forget to jump on the SCOREBOARD for the latest, most accurate updates and give us your opinion in the FORUMS.

It's coming down to the wire for the "Northeast Ohio High School Player of the Year"(in it's second trademarked year) too and Mayfield's Tim Wetzel, Pagel and Kirtland's Ben Madden lead in the field surveys, e-mails and polls thus far.

A Few Notables on past D1 members....

2008-10-08T12:30:00.005-04:00

....doing their thing in college!

D1 Football is proud of the relationship it has and has shared with our members and the student-athletes we've had the HONOR and PRIVILEGE of working with over the past few years. The last two seasons we've been thrilled to see these kids take their game to the next level, some of whom are already making an impact for their current college teams.

Here's a list of just some of the kids from northeast Ohio that we believed in and who believed in D1 Football:

Michael Hounshell (NDCL '08) Lake Erie College - Seeing playing time on offensive line.

Nick Viola (VASJ '08) Lake Erie College - Starting linebacker for the Storm.

Andre Laney (Twinsburg '08) Eastern Michigan - 'Dre is seeing some good playing time at defensive back for the Eagles this season as a freshman.

Nate Schkruko (Twinsburg '07) Youngstown State University - Playing at wide receiver and long snapper for the Penguins.

Brigham Van Etten (West Geauga '07) Gannon University - 3rd leading wideout for the Golden Knights of the PSAC.

Sam Fikaris (Mayfield '07) California of PA - Dominating nose tackle for the Vulcans who made it to the final four in NCAA Division-II last year.

Matt Guererri (NDCL '07) Davidson College - has seen a lot of playing time at defensive back this season for Davidson.

John Behm (Kenston '08) Davidson College - Has yet to see playing time.

Chad Hounshell (Lake Catholic '08) Central Florida - Has yet to see playing time.

Joe Gaglione (Lake Catholic '08) Iowa - Has yet to see playing time.

Devon Jennings (Euclid '08) Baldwin Wallace - 2nd leading receiver for Baldwin Wallace College this year so far.

Howard Drake (Euclid '08) Baldwin Wallace - Has yet to see any playing time at QB as of yet.

Jerome Royal (Cleveland Heights '07) University of Akron - Has yet to see playing time for the Zips.

Dan Goodrum (VASJ '08) Urbana University - Dan has yet to see playing time at linebacker for the Knights.

Ra'Mone Billings (VASJ '08) Urbana Univerity - Redshirt freshman wideout.

All in all their doing their part and we're sure we'll see the guys who haven't played yet in games soon as the course of growing up in college football and learning each team's program continues.

Though we get a chance to speak with most of them often, we wish you good luck and continued success. This is only a sample...you'll hear about more real soon.

D1 Football is watching!

D1 Football's "Damned Good Dozen"

2008-10-04T13:42:00.021-04:00

While the predictability of most northeast Ohio news rag top "25" teams is very obvious, we look at football from some different angles. NO MEDIA DARLINGS HERE nor will our list be comprised exclusively of Division-I primadonna blow-hards.

We look deeper than that. We don't care about the name of your school. We want to see players with heart and passion for the game. Not a group of kids that think they deserve to be page one because they go to "St. Play Nobody." We're not aiming for the popular vote. We're giving you a reality check. We realize not many of you can handle reality, so here it is. Not everyone can be #1 boys!

Here's how week 7 panned out for us:

1. Youngstown Ursuline (7-0) The Irish are probably the finest tuned football machine in northeast Ohio and could probably stand toe to toe with ANY team regardless of division. Their opponents have been quality and it doesn't let up as they'll close out with Akron Buchtel, Mooney and Akron SVSM. The only thing nicer would be seeing them match-up with the team right behind them in points, Kirtland, in the post-season! That would be a war.

2. Brunswick (7-0) The Blue Devils under coach Rich Nowak simply do not miss a beat. They lose talent galore this past season and they just pick up where they left off.....WINNING! They are a lock to be the top seed in D1, R2 and have won every challenge thus far. This week will be a big test in their annual showdown with Strongsville.

3. Strongsville (6-1) A tough outing against Lakewood didn't help the Mustangs' with the power above them in the rankings, but nonetheless they were able to put together a great running game in the 4th quarter of that game to get a win. Led by Mr. Football Ohio hopeful, Kellen Pagel, the Mustangs have a shot at going deep into the post-season if they keep their focus. They face off with Brunswick this week and can gain momentum down the stretch.

4. St. Edward (6-1) After slipping a few spots last week, the Eagles took their high flying show on the road to PA where they toppled a struggling Cathedral Prep team. St. X, Moeller and Ignatius lie in the path of Eds' remaining schedule so they'll need to dig deep to maintain their push into the post-season.

5. Kirtland (7-0) The Hornet Nation is still abuzz after knocking off Cardinal 35-0. The fact that Cardinal "is who we thought they were" is why Kirtland slips a bit to number 5, but they are very much a force to be reckoned with. The only team ahead of them in divisional points is Ursuline. Oh what a great playoff game that would be!

6. Mayfield (6-1) The biggest climber of the week is Mayfield. Head Coach Larry Pinto has the Wildcats tasting post-season with every game. They need to maintain their focus as well and allow no letdowns the remainder of the season and especially in the playoffs like last year. We think this could be a special year for the 'Cats.

7. Youngstown Cardinal Mooney (6-1) The Cardinals may have dealt a deadly blow to Benedictine's playoff hopes this week. but they are on a mission of their own. The combined record of their remaining schedule is 17-4 as they'll face Akron SVSM, Ursuline and Watterson. A tremendous schedule and one hell of a test.

8. Mentor (5-2) An up and down start to the season may be over as the Cardinals seem to have found their stride. An utter demolition of Shaker Heights helped move them up this list, but even more is the way these warriors respond to head coach Steve Trivisonno. Mentor is in position to make their run.

9. Akron St. Vincent/St. Mary (6-1) The other "Irish" on the list have been doing their job ever so quietly all season long. They earned a hard fought victory over Walsh this week with a gutsy defensive effort in the first real "cold" weekend of the season. They also have a tough remaining schedule. Stay tuned.

10. Chagrin Falls (6-1) The Tigers took advantage of their playoff hunger to dine on Wickliffe at the tune of 44-14. They knock Perry out of the current DGD rankings but this should be a dogfight down the stretch. Falls faces off with Aurora and Perry among their remaining teams, so this will be good.

11. Euclid (5-2) The Panthers have truly been hot and cold "somewhat" this season, but mostly hot as evident by their 34-7 thrashing of Cleveland Heights. The offense has had it share of down games, but Tommy Gibbons' defense has been rock solid this year with only a handful of road bumps that have led to losses. The Panthers need to hold tight and play their hearts out to secure the first part of their post-season journey going through Euclid.

12. St. Ignatius (6-1) Well, we couldn't keep our eyes off of them for the entire season, but we'd love to put them up against ANY of the teams ahead of them on this list and NONE of them would be easy, but they way that Harding came into their game Saturday and Iggy put them down...well we had to honor that. After all we do pride ourselves on how much of this game WE ARE!

Just missed:

Perry gets bumped by Chagrin Falls and even out of playoff contention, but hang on for the home stretch battle between these two teams and Aurora. Aurora made a good run this week and barely got nudged out by St. Ignatius who rocked Warren Harding Saturday night. Padua played tough against a determined NDCL squad, while the Lions still moved into the 7th playoff spot with the loss. Streetsboro played the game of the week against Mogadore and came up short by a field goal. Carrington Hanna will have the Rockets back on this list we're sure, by the end of the season.

Walsh took a tumble, but they are always lurking. Again a lot of these teams go head to head in the coming weeks, so hang on to your hats! It will be a fun ride down the stretch. Nice way to top last year's season of thrills.

SOME NOTES ON A FEW OF OUR BOYS THAT MOVED ON TO THE COLLEGE GRIDIRON:

D1 members and scholarship athletes Nick Viola (VASJ) and Mike Hounshell (NDCL) are now getting regular playing time at Lake Erie (NCAA D-II) and Viola has even secured a starting role at line backer. West Geauga grad Brigham VanEtten is now Gannon's go to receiver taking over that role after week two of the season. Over at California PA, Sam Fikaris (Mayfield '07) is still anchoring the defensive line at NT for the Vulcans who are 5-1 and set to make a charge at the NCAA D-II title once again. Twinsburg grad Nate Schkurko is holding his own at wideout and long snapper now for Youngstown State and was named to the Gateway Conference Honor Roll. Great job guys!

For the latest updates jump HERE or the FORUMS

D1 Football's "Damned Good Dozen"

2008-09-27T13:21:00.024-04:00

While the predictability of most northeast Ohio news rag top "25" teams is very obvious, we look at football from some different angles. NO MEDIA DARLINGS HERE nor will our list be comprised exclusively of Division-I primadonna blow-hards.

We look deeper than that. We don't care about the name of your school. We want to see players with heart and passion for the game. Not a group of kids that think they deserve to be page one because they go to "St. Play Nobody." We're not aiming for the popular vote. We're giving you a reality check. We realize not many of you can handle reality, so here it is. Not everyone can be #1 boys!

Here's how we see them after week 6:

1. Strongsville (5-1) The beat goes on for the Mustangs and Mr. Football Ohio hopeful Kellen Pagel. Head coach Russ Jacques has his team primed for the home stretch. This is key as Brunswick and Solon still loom on the horizon for this young, hungry team.

2. Youngstown Ursuline (6-0) THESE Fighting Irish have taken on all comers and have disposed of them, including Lake Catholic and Massillon-Washington. Now they must shift into overdrive and not miss a beat because they finish the season with back to back match-ups with Mooney and Akron SVSM. This could be a wild ride.

3. Brunswick (6-0) The Blue Devils are once again on fire. They have their focus on one thing, a return to post season and an even deeper run. The next two weeks will be the tell tale as they take on Solon and Strongsville back to back in a true test of character. Head coach Rich Nowak has done wonders with this team after losing so much talent, but then again that's been his style ever since his first stint at Brunswick. Great man too.

4. Kirtland (6-0) Lake County is "buzzing" as the Hive is Alive in Kirtland once again and the Fighting Hornets are swarming to their goal to extend deep into the post season and bring home a title. Rossi Santo and company led by a dominating linemen who would take on ANYBODY are up to the task. Let there be no doubts.

5. St. Edward (5-1) The Eagles had a slight hiccup in a block-buster slugfest with Cincinnati Elder last week, but they rebound with a tremendous knockout of Benedictine to move up a notch.

6. Perry (5-1) The Pirates climb a few notches to number 6 and could continue to climb as the season goes on. "Air" Hokavar and company have been laying waste to their CVC counterparts on the schedule. There's no doubt that Matt Rosati's coaching style has paid off, now the Pirates need to stay healthy and keep some BIG bodies around Vinny on offense and let's sail into the playoffs.

7. Youngstown Cardinal Mooney (5-1) The Cardinals are chomping at the bit and will get a shot at Ursuline in a few weeks after they tangle with Benedictine and Akron SVSM!

8. Akron St. Vincent/St. Mary (5-1) Walsh, Mooney and Ursuline among the remaining games for the Irish. If they keep it up they'll certainly be on the move to the top. Not just here, but in the playoffs!

9. Mayfield (5-1) The Wildcats are the latest entry to the rankings after a tremendous start that has been highlighted by wins over Bedford, Solon, Willoughby South and Garfield Heights...all quality wins. The Cats are back and led by a great head coach in Larry Pinto and talented players.

10. Mentor (4-2) The Cardinals breathe life back into their season with an upset over Euclid and have moved into 3rd place in computer points in D1 R1. Triv has the boys seeing things a little bit brighter and it's showing on the field.

11. Streetsboro (5-1) Stud QB Carrington Hanna is all that we said he would be and then some. Hey he has a great supporting cast and good coaches too. The Rockets are soaring their way in the direction of the playoffs!

12. Euclid (4-2) We don't anticipate the Panthers will remain here. They have too much talent in uniform and in coaching gear to falter in too bad of a way. An upset loss to Mentor hopefully will be only a minor setback. Either way it has added life to the battle in the LEL.

JUST MISSED: An idle week hurts Walsh as they slip just out of the rankings, but they still loom. Padua is definitely working their way back after a tough win over Lake Catholic. There may even be a surprise or two after next week. It's bound to happen as a lot of these teams on the list will face off within the next month.

ON THE HORIZON: St. Ignatius may one day grace the rankings, BUT not yet. They're still haunted by the "darling" syndrome and we need to see heart, soul and legitimacy. Here's a suggestion, play and all-Ohio schedule. We're still waiting for Solon to make their annual end of the season run as well. You can bet Jim McQuaide is getting them primed! Elsewhere the Tigers of Chagrin Falls have "quietly" been going about there seasonal business and THEY are on the DGD horizon too. D1 Football doesn't just "run with the pack" when it comes to looking at teams. We can smell heart and passion counties away! Finally we are keeping an eye on two Geauga County favorites, Chardon and NDCL, who are merely points out of the playoffs and still very much in the hunt. Also watch another CVC team making a charge...Aurora. The Greenmen are at it again. Let's see if they can seal the deal this year. The D-III race is tight and should go down to the wire. WOW are we in for a wild stretch run guys! Hang on and ride with D1 all the way to state.

QUICK NOTE:
Lake Catholic senior and D1 Charter Member Randy Greenwood caught up with us a recent game and gave us an update on his rehab stint for his ankle injury suffered before the season started. He's doing well, seemed positive and is now focused on preparing for college football at Division 1 Akron in the MAC. Akron coach J.D. Brookhart reconfirmed in a letter to us at D1 that the university will still honor Randy's existing scholarship offer. Great news! Good luck Randy.

D1 members and scholarship athletes Nick Viola (VASJ) and Mike Hounshell (NDCL) are now getting regular playing time at Lake Erie (NCAA D-II) and Viola has even secured a starting role at line backer. West Geauga grad Brigham VanEtten is now Gannon's go to receiver taking over that role after week two of the season. Great job guys!

For the latest updates jump HERE or the FORUMS

Consider Kellen for Mr. Football Ohio

2008-09-25T20:25:00.005-04:00

When you look at the season so far you have to consider Strongsville QB Kellen Pagel one of the candidates for Mr. Football Ohio after his red hot start this year along with his Mustangs.

6'3" 180 pounds together with poise, confidence and a really nice arm Kellen, the son of former Browns, Colts and Rams quarterback Mike Pagel has led the 'Stangs to a 4-1 start and he's comprised some impressive stats:

56 of 91 (62%) for 1,072 yards
8 TD's 2 int's
2 rushing TD's

His NCAA QB rating is 185.11, NFL rating would be 122.6 and in the AFL 115.3. Not bad at all for the first half of the 2008 season. He's even donned his father's number 10 (his own decision according to dad) and he's a fine young man on and off the field as well.

The team is tearing it up, despite a heart-breaking loss to St. Eds in the opener, and they are also atop the D1 Football DGD rankings. The senior quarterback from Strongsville needs to be highly considered among the kids in the running for this award.

Go to www.d1football.net/scoreboard.php for updates on Kellen Pagel and the rest of northeast Ohio high school football all weekend and beyond!!...FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF FORMER PLAYERS AND CURRENT COACHES WHO LIVE THE GAME.

D1 Football's "Damned Good Dozen"

2008-09-20T20:19:00.019-04:00

While the predictability of most northeast Ohio news rag top "25" teams is very obvious, we look at football from some different angles. NO MEDIA DARLINGS HERE nor will our list be comprised exclusively of Division-I primadonna blow-hards.

We look deeper than that. We don't care about the name of your school. We want to see players with heart and passion for the game. Not a group of kids that think they deserve to be page one because they go to "St. Play Nobody."

Our list:

1. Strongsville (4-1) The Mustangs are running amok behind the leadership of Kellen Pagel at QB and an excellent supporting cast. A big match-up with Brunswick looms in the next month. stay tuned!

2. Youngstown Ursuline (5-0) The Fighting Irish lead Kirtland (also 5-0) by a mere fraction of points, but they have played "World Beater" again this season. They have taken on the big boys and have laid the wood to them!

3. Brunswick (5-0) The Blue Devils roll on up the list and are right back where they were a year ago...driving to the post season with aggression. What more can you ask of a staff that lost a ton of talent and yet continues to keep it together!

4. Kirtland (5-0) The Hornets have answered every question posed to them so far this season. They just knocked off the two toughest opponents on their schedule in Cuyahoga Heights and Richmond Heights in back to back weeks. They trail Ursuline in Division-5 points ever so slightly, but they are on a mission and most of all these kids are focused. A great group of kids that have grown up together and GROWN together. The offensive and defensive lines can bag with ANYBODY!

5. Euclid (4-1) The Panthers have staggered only once this year, against St. Eds. They have been solid on defense and really play inspired football! A great group of kids let by another great "kid" in head coach Tom Gibbons. Defensive-minded, but ready to fire at anytime on offense! Watch out for them!

6. St. Edward (4-1) The Eagles are SOLID. They have a schedule worthy of being a top ranked team. They play with absolute heart, as shown with how they fought toe to toe, blow for blow with Cincinnati Elder just like Rocky Balboa in a heavyweight title fight! Although they lost that knock down, drag out battle, they showed incredible Heart, Pride and Tradition.

7. Walsh Jesuit (4-1) The Warriors haven't fallen. They've simply been consistent while Brunswick and Ursuline have taken off! Walsh will be there come time for the post-season.

8. Youngstown Cardinal Mooney (4-1) A true thumping of poor Lake Catholic is just a footnote in the season the Cardinals have been having so far and the schedule is "balls out" from this point onward. This team fears nobody and they have more heart than a lot of teams in the BIGGER divisions by far.

9. Perry (4-1) The Pirates climb the ladder a bit after a blistering knockout of Wickliffe 55-14. Vinny "Air" Hokavar has been literally on fire and almost (loss to Aurora) unstoppable. This team is fueled by it's feisty head coach Matt Rosati and they play to win boys!

10. Streetsboro (4-1) The Rockets crack the list in the top 10 and are soaring high behind the skillful, strong play of D1's own Carrington Hanna at QB. He and his team are playing as predicted when the season kicked off.

11. Mentor (3-2) The Cardinals slip a notch, but remain in contention with a thrilling win over Cincinnati Moeller. They seem to be hit and miss this year, but more hit as of late and they may just be hitting their stride fellas!

12. Akron St. Vincent/St. Mary (4-1) Hello gang! We're heeeere! The Irish have quietly worked their way onto the list with great play and a great attitude to play hard and win! A weak schedule to come should make things easier for them, but also the reason they are at #12.

JUST MISSED - Padua (3-2) and Benedictine (3-2) both dropped off the list but have plenty of chances to get right back into the mix with some quality wins. The Bengals drop all the way from #2.

It will be fun to watch the Youngstown teams later this year as Mooney takes on Ursuline in what should be a great match-up and could have playoff positioning implications for either team. Keep an eye on the smaller division teams too for fun football. Kirtland is on a mission...a mission to prove to the CVC that they can roll with anybody in that conference and lend credence to the "small school" Valley Division.

These teams will change, of course, as the season goes on, but rest assured those who deserve it from a FOOTBALL PERSPECTIVE, will get their due from D1 Football....The organization that brought you the TRADEMARKED "Shut Up and Play the Game!" GameDay MVP award, The Northeast Ohio High School Football Player and Coach of the Year awards.

D1 Football's "Damned Good Dozen"

2008-09-18T21:30:00.014-04:00

While the predictability of most northeast Ohio news rag top "25" teams is very obvious, we look at football from some different angles. NO MEDIA DARLINGS HERE nor will our list be comprised exclusively of Division-I primadonna blow-hards.

We look deeper than that. We don't care about the name of your school. We want to see players with heart and passion forthe game. Not a group of kids that think they deserve to be page one because they go to "St. Play Nobody."

Our list:

1. Strongsville (3-1) The Mustangs dropped their season opener in a nail biter, but learned from it, regrouped and hasn't looked back going 3-0 since then. Led by Kellen Pagel, the Mustangs are poised to take on all comers and forge their way deep into the playoff field.

2. Benedictine (3-1) This is a team still actually flying below the radar and this ranking may be short lived, BUT the Bengals never put together a whimpy schedule and this year's is no different as they play a statistically tougher schedule than Glenville and St. Ignatius, neither of which team managed to crack our top 12. This team look their opponents in the eye and dances the dance boys!

3. Euclid (3-1) Tommy Gibbons' Panthers are another solid team quietly going about their business weekly and laying the smack down on their opponents. They stumbled against St. Edward, but they have been a very sound, defense minded team otherwise. They fear no opponent and are clearly the team to beat in the Lake Erie League bar none.

4. St. Edward (4-0) We bust their chops regularly, but the Eagles play a very solid schedule and play with a "take no prisoners" attitude that exudes a championship team style. This team is truly THE big dog among the area's top INDY teams. Most would place Glenville or Ignatius higher, but those teams are content playing popcorn schedules and teams from out of state that are mediocre at best. The Eagles have gotten back to their traditional ways and that means nothing but trouble for the competition.

5. Kirtland (4-0) Yes the Hornets are unbeaten. Yes the Hornets are trapped in a weak division in the most diluted conference in the area. Yes the Hornets feature the area's top touchdown scorer from a year ago. Yes the Hornets are Division-V, but we would gladly put them up against ANY team from ANY division in the area and watch them go toe to toe for 4 quarters any Friday night of the season. Though the weaker schedule could hurt them come playoff time (especially if that means a date against Ursuline), but they have to players and the staff to help them adapt to ANY situation. Despite the scheduling, Kirtland is on top of Division-V points over the rough-riding Youngstown Ursuline Fighting Irish. Only time (and some quality wins) will tell.

6. Walsh Jesuit (3-1) The Warriors are simply TOUGH! They are locked in a 9 game schedule that features only 4 games at or below Division-3 and it's stocked with points too. A championship caliber team that looks at it's upper division foes as "just the next victim!"

7. Padua (3-1) The Bruins of the North Coast League play the typical conference schedule, but they've thrown in some tough out of conference play this year and even though their first test against Huber Heights resulted in a heart breaking loss, the upstart Bruins are still the class of the NCL and one of the teams to beat in Division-II.

8. Youngstown Ursuline (4-0) The Irish are BIG and they are for real! A 53-14 thrashing of Lake Catholic in week 3 highlights the season thus far, but that may have been out done by the toppling of Division-I powerhouse Massillon Washington in week 4. Even though Massillon is the latest team to suffer from the "Curse of Jason Hall", they are still a team considered dangerous and Ursuline trounced them 23-13.

9. Brunswick (4-0) Going out each week and getting the job done. Exactly how the Blue Devils are following up their great run last season and despite losing a lot of talent, they've simply replaced it and kept pace.

10. Mentor (2-2) Of their 2 losses the only game in which they really struggled was against Ignatius. They lost by 3 to the rambling Mustangs of Strongsville and have a tough schedule remaining, but Steve Trvisonno has his boys ready to make their run at post-season play once again. It's not easy from here as they will take on Moeller, Euclid and Massillon among others on their hearty schedule.

11. Perry (3-1) The Pirates fell victim to hype and let it get to them in their only loss thus far against Aurora. This team can be a world beater if the players can stay in the game mentally and avoid injury. Last year when they lost Vinny "Air" Hokavar they went into a tailspin and despite making the playoffs were not the same team without him. Matt Rosati has to keep his boys focused.

12. Youngstown Cardinal Mooney (3-1) These boys come to play every week and they don't care who they are playing. Unbeaten after starting the season with a loss to Mentor, the Cardinals are in for battles all season long with their classic schedule, but they say "bring it on."

These are OUR "Damned Good Dozen" teams that we feel are those to keep and eye on in 2008.....so far.

So most of you are asking.....why no Glenville, St. Ignatius or even Mayfield?? The answers are simple. The Tarblooders and the Wildcats fail to play schedules that match their hype. They take on out of town teams that are not that solid and worse, don't factor into the points that much either, but every year they garner all the hype from teams that deserve more recognition. As for Mayfield. Well they've put together a nice string of good seasons, but you somehow know you're going to get a BOMB in the playoffs. It's just a hunch.

These teams will change, of course, as the season goes on, but rest assured those who deserve it from a FOOTBALL PERSPECTIVE, will get their due from D1 Football....The organization that brought you the TRADEMARKED "Shut Up and Play the Game!" GameDay MVP award, The Northeast Ohio High School Football Player and Coach of the Year awards.

Finished so soon...

2008-09-06T18:37:00.002-04:00

Kenston, Painesville Riverside and now Chardon all had high expectations going into the 2008 season, but 3 weeks into the fray their seasons have been declared dead! Kenston hasn't been able to do anything right offensively nor defensively giving up 7 turnovers in week one and very "middle school-like" performances the last two trips to the gridiron. Riverside is simply over-matched by ANY opponent they face and Chardon, well the Hilltoppers have tried to legalize cloning to return Kyle Petersen's clone to the field!

BUT, WE A D1 FOOTBALL DO BELIEVE IN RESURRECTION. After all, VASJ pulled one out against a very less-than-mediocre University team then fought valiantly only to lose to a NOW 1-2 Maple Heights squad, BUT we have faith that Mother Mary can spell life into the Vikings as we believe!

These teams have been cast to the underbelly of high school football not only by poor play and poor coaching, but by the football gods themselves. Zeus was the Lombardi of Mount Olympus and Mercury (Morris) his fastest disciple. Vulcan breathed fire into his teammates and they won. Hercules carried more times than anyone could imagine and he made Jim Brown look like a 4th grader. BUT Hercules fell to injury and "Sweetness" was called to the Mountain to take his place. Now the gods have seen these teams mock their great sport and they have seen ENOUGH.

FOR THESE TEAMS THE ROAD TO RESURRECTION MAY BE TOO LONG, BUT FOR THOSE WHO HAVEN'T YET FALLEN AND BEEN CAST INTO THE PIT OF LOST SEASONS, REDEMPTION MAY BE JUST A QUALITY WIN AWAY!

D1 Football Caught in a D-II STORM!

2008-08-14T20:39:00.004-04:00

D1 Football will take our tailgate experience one step further. We will be tailgating at the home opener for the Lake Erie Storm as they kickoff NCAA Division-II play against Gannon on Thursday August 28th.

Join us and area high school players and fans for all the food, fun and football that a D1 Tailgate Party brings. Who knows, you might even win some prizes.

We'll be there to support the team as well as OUR GUYS representing with The Storm. Mike Hounshell from NDCL, Nick Viola from VASJ, Josh Freeman from mentor and Kyle Glass from Euclid will be suiting up and tearing it up for Lake Erie College in 2008!

Head coach Mark McNellie has the team headed in the right direction and even though they have a challenging schedule, we're confident that they'll weather the Storm! Question is can any of their opponents?

Stay locked onto to www.d1football.net and check the SCOREBOARD for updates on times and when we kick it off at Lake Erie College. The fun doesn't end there. Follow our tailgate party Friday night to Kirtland Stadium where the Fighting Hornets host the Skippers of Fairport Harbor in week 2 action of Ohio high school football. High school football the way it should be played. NO ESPN2, PACKED STANDS, NO POMP AND CIRCUMSTANCE, JUST HARD-NOSED, HEART-FILLED FOOTBALL!

"Shut Up and Play the Game!"

PANTHERS READY TO POUNCE!

2008-08-13T20:20:00.004-04:00

The Euclid Panthers return to action next week as they travel to Mentor to take on the Lake Catholic Cougars. Last year the Cougars represented the only blemish on Euclid's regular season record defeating them 27-13 in the opener a year ago. 9-1 during the regular season, including a thrilling win over Mentor 35-34 in what was probably the best game of the 2007 season. The journey into the post season ended quickly though as the Panthers lost to Boardman in the first round.

A lot has changed around Euclid since last season. Tom Gibbons takes over at head coach for the retired Mike Rezzola. Howard Drake and Devon Jennings have moved on to Baldwin Wallace College. Quarterback will come down to how well Dontravious Smith and David Thompson play in two a days. Early indications point to Thompson. Jeffvron Gill will be the workhorse for the Panthers this year at runningback. Another guy to keep an eye on is Donald Bell at inside linebacker in Euclid's 4-3 attack.

The first thought is Euclid will be a defensive oriented team with Gibbons at the helm, but never doubt the firepower of the Panthers on offense and special teams. Yes there are some questions and holes to be filled with the departure of Jennings, Drake and Travis Smith, but everybody from athletic director Tom Banc down to the fans all believe in their Panther football team this year.

A schedule that includes Lake Catholic, Mentor and St. Edward just boasts excitement. Head coach Gibbons' father John and the Bedford Bearcats are scheduled to return to Euclid again this year in the father - son match-up, in which the younger took the honors last year. Euclid can be humble about their team's chances, but seeing them in scrimmages and summer competition makes Euclid our dark horse to win the Lake Erie League outright.

Stealthy Teams

2008-08-06T03:57:00.010-04:00

After a thrilling 2007 season, northeast Ohio is geared up and ready for 2008!

We know that Mentor, St. Ignatius, Glenville and possibly St. Edward will be considered in Division I. That's all well and good, BUT northeast Ohio goes way, way beyond the Division I glamor show. The other divisions are just as stacked and are full of teams that come out every weekend and lay it all out there on the field and play their hearts out. Teams that get lost in the fray of the larger schools when they deserve equal time and sometimes put out more effort on the field.

Division II sees Chardon tearing it up out east as a perennial dominant force in the Premier Athletic Conference. Avon lake is the measuring stick on the west side of Cleveland within the division while Normandy has been silent but very strong the last few seasons. Don't count out Padua with Mr. Consistent Adrew Dziak behind the controls at quarterback.

When Division III is mentioned immediately Lake Catholic, Walsh Jesuit and Rocky River come to mind, BUT never count out Dave Bors. He is in the second year of building a VERY solid program over at West Geauga after years of success as defensive coordinator at Chardon.

Youngstown Cardinal Mooney, Steubenville, Akron St. Vincent-St.Mary and Perry are teams in Division IV that can play with ANY TEAM IN ANY DIVISION. The Cardinals of Mooney are coming off a heartbreaking loss in the title game a year ago, but you can bet they'll be among the best again this year. Perry hasn't gotten much respect state wide lately, but behind Vinny Hokavar at QB and safety the Pirates are ready to start their surge back to the post-season. Keep an eye on Villa Angela-St. Joseph this year. Let's see if missing the playoffs by a handfull of points last year can drive the young Vikings back to prominence.

The smaller schools in Division V and VI represent teams that never fail to produce teams that will never quit and give 110% every week on the gridiron. The Fighting Hornets of Kirtland are a great example, not shown much respect within the Chagrin Valley Conference because of being in the smaller Valley division of their conference, they fail to garner much of a look statewide. However, with a 2006 overall conference title and a 2007 playoff appearance to his claim, head coach Tiger LaVerde looks to take his troops deeper into the playoffs and quite possibly bring home a state title. A classic match-up is brewing with very strong Cuyahoga Heights for the Hornets. A rematch of last season when the Hornets sent Heights packing! Richmond Heights came on strong last year and look for the push to continue in 2008. The same goes for Chanel who opened some eyes at the end of the 2007 campaign.

The bigger schools will get the media hype, but we all know the every team in northeast Ohio represents a tradition that goes deeper than most within this great nation. High School football in Ohio...the Cradle of High School Football.

Santo and Greenwood .....Tale of Two Athletes

2008-07-26T19:48:00.008-04:00

Kirtland's Rossi Santo and Lake Catholic's Randy Greenwood will start of the year in a virtual tie for Northeast Ohio High School Player of the Year. Randy won it last year based on a very solid season and YES, post-season was taken into consideration. Randy played 5 positions throughout the season as well. Both players also earned the Global Intermed "Shut Up and Play the Game!" GameDay MVP awards during the season.

"Shut Up and Play the Game!"

The smaller Santo also put together a stellar season. In fact he scored more touchdowns than any other player north of Columbus. His 27 overall touchdowns were the most in ANY division. Three of those were via the interception, of which Rossi had 6 total (14 for his career).

Between these two high school seniors there is one descriptor that first comes to mind when you watch them play, HEART. Both are fast and elusive. Greenwood has a somewhat stronger running style while Santo uses speed and elusiveness as his main weapons along with an incredible ability to see the whole field. Using his blockers, finding ways through and around seemingly closed running lanes earned him the nickname "The Salamander" from his head coach Tiger LaVerde.

"The Salamander" makes his way through the line for a big gain

If we were to pin a nickname on Randy Greenwood it would be "Mr. Everything" having looked very comfortable last season at running back, defensive back, punter, receiver and even quarterback. Cougars' coach Mike Bell knows he can expect great things and stands a good chance of winning when it's crunch time and the ball is in Randy's hands.

Randy Greenwood stiffarms a Rocky River defender in the 2007 playoffs

Their respective teams may not meet in a regular season match-up, but that sure would be a classic match-up. Both are the heart and soul of their team. Neither will ever show signs of giving up and both are ready to lead their teams back into the post-season and if you ask either one their ultimate goal for this season is a state title for their TEAM. They know they aren't a one man show and they are quick to give credit to the horses around them, especially Rossi Santo who is surrounded by teammates that have been friends since kindergarten.

I have had the privilege to work with each of these players up close over the past year or two and getting to know them away from the field has been just as rewarding as seeing them on the gridiron. Cuyahoga County may be stocked with some good across the board talented teams, but when it comes to HEART, Lake County has cornered the market, starting with these two outstanding young men.

THEIR TEAMS

Randy Greenwood's Lake Catholic Cougars (Division III) won Region 9 in D-III last season during a thrilling post season journey that unfortunately ended one game short of the title game. Head coach Mike Bell knows the journey back this year will be equally as tough, but knows the Cougars are up to the task despite losing several big men at graduation.

The Cougars' loyal fan base

Rossi Santo and the Fighting Kirtland Hornets (Division V) ventured into the playoffs for the second straight year last season only to be eliminated in round one. This year will be different if you ask any of the players on this team. Anchored by Santo and one of the toughest offensive and defensive lines east of Cleveland, the Hornets have their sights set on deep run into the post season and quite possibly a state title.

WR Dominic Samf, QB Ben Madden and Santo are major players in Kirtland's title quest

PREVIEW: 2008 Northeast Ohio High School Player of the Year

2008-07-10T20:06:00.009-04:00

The candidates are starting to filter through the offices at D1 headquarters as we go out and about to camps this summer to scout our top prospects and candidates for this year's Northeast Ohio High School Player of the Year Award. So far from what we've seen the list will be full of studs!

Of course last year's winner Randy Greenwood from Lake Catholic is in the mix as is Kirtland's Rossi Santo. Both are very talented multiple position athletes that can determine the out come of a game on their own. Euclid's Jeffron Gill also has a stake in the bidding if he can add on to a great junior season he had last year. We will also keep an eye on Willoughby South's quarterback Pat Nicely. Nice pocket passer, decent arm but no very mobile. He's the make or break point for the Rebels this year. Speaking of quarterbacks, the top of the crop right now is Perry's Vinny Hokavar. "Air" Hokavar has rebounded from a wicked shoulder injury last season and appears early on in camp to be solid. The loss to Kirtland in a recent 7on7 wasn't due in part to his play at all. VASJ has one solid player that can be a lock for this award if he's not over-used and beaten up. The smaller Toney Foster, Jr. will see the brunt of the load at runningback for the Vikings this year following the departure of stall wort runners Dan Goodrum and Nick Viola to Lake Erie College where they will be playing NCAA Division II football this season.

Don't count out Raymont Clements from Warrensville and a bit more to the west we go and St, Ignatius' quarterback Andrew Holland can throw his name into the mix among area ballers looking to earn top honors as well. A solid start to the season by the Wildcats and game play equal to the task and we may see him move up the list pretty quick. BUT remember, it's a long season and you've got to FINISH STRONG.

Speaking of west-siders, Bryan Boss of Bay High School will play a big role this year for his team at receiver. We'll see if he has what it takes to standout weekly and take on the MVP role and make a run at Player of the Year as well.

As the summer practices set in we will be making the rounds to other schools and the list may grow. It will most definitely get smaller as the season goes and the "studs" separate themselves from the pack. Good luck to all of you this year and remember it's about the TEAM!

"Best in Show!"

2008-06-26T13:34:00.006-04:00

Randy Greenwood #32—Lake Catholic High School

It’s not a question of what can he do, with Randy it’s what can’t he do. The answer is NOT MUCH. In 2007 Randy performed excellently at each position he played. Primarily a running back and defensive back, he also saw time at wideout and quarterback. Oh yeah, he was also the team’s punter. The Cougars’ “Mr. Everything” put together a season with over 1,200 yards rushing and leading his team to the Region 9 Championship while being named to several all-star teams. Though the season ended one game shy of the state title game, Randy displayed a true never say die attitude all season long, especially in the playoffs. Missing the first game of the playoffs, he helped key the Cougar attack on both sides of the ball from that point on. Week 8 of the regular season saw Randy earn the “Shut Up and Play the Game!” GameDay MVP and by season’s end into the playoffs he was named the first ever winner of D1’s newly trademarked “Northeast Ohio High School Player of the Year” narrowly beating out Rossi Santo from Kirtland and Dan Goodrum from VASJ. Accolades and awards aren’t something new for the junior baller, who was even named All-Ohio his sophomore year, although a state title is the ultimate goal for this young standout.

It runs in the family
Randy isn’t the only talented athlete in the family. His brother Aramis is a sophomore at Fairport and he is also showing signs of “standout efforts” on the field. We’ll look forward to watching him develop his junior and senior years as well.

Giving back
Randy was also part of the high school contingent that came out to demonstrate speed and agility skills drills for the youth football players at The Edge President’s Day Youth Football Camp. These young kids look up to the older players and it’s great to see them get to share the field with some of the players they read about in the papers or watch play on the weekends.

The Lake Catholic Cougars have a strong group of returning players that should make another strong run in the North Coast League and go deep into the playoffs. We can only wait with anticipation and see, but one thing is for sure. Randy Greenwood will play a major part in that effort on both sides of the ball and on special teams his senior year.

VASJ Grad goes the Distance !

2008-06-26T11:03:00.012-04:00

Dan Goodrum #33—Villa Angela-St.Joseph

The 2007 season saw Dan used more on the defensive side of the ball, however when given the opportunity to run the ball, he averaged over 7.6 yards per carry out of the backfield. When he doesn’t get the ball, he doesn’t complain. You’ll see him pick up the blitz, nail his blocks and when he does have the ball he can hit the hole fluid and strong. He played injury free leading his team in sacks with 11 ½ on the season at defensive end being named 1st Team All-Conference North Coast League 2007, 1st Team News Herald All-Stars and Honorable Mention All-Ohio. Dan also received our "Shut Up and Play the Game!" GameDay Player of the Week for week 3 and was 2nd runner up for Northeast Ohio Player of the Year behind Lake Catholic's Randy Greenwood and Kirtland's Rossi Santo. In addition to the sacks Dan recorded 52 tackles, 18 solo. Forced 1 fumble and recovered one for a touchdown. He also has tremendous lateral speed and quickness running a 4.20 twice in the 20 yard shuttle and a 4.55 in the 40 yard dash.

A physically and genetically gifted multi-sport athlete at 6' 205 pounds, when you see him play it’s like watching a seasoned veteran play every down. If you had to pick three words to describe his play on both sides of the ball, FLUID, STRONG AND RELENTLESS, but just like we’ve mentioned before with other players, what stands out with Danny is his HEART. A true team leader.

Away from the football field, the senior from VASJ is just as dedicated to family and school. Without these, football wouldn’t happen. With his wonderful parents and family strongly behind him, Dan works very hard to make the best of each opportunity on and off of the football field.

What the future holds

The start of 2008 saw Dan “Big Impact” Goodrum receive a tremendous scholarship from Lake Erie College joining a host of talented northeast Ohio players eager to help put the surging Storm on the map in NCAA Division-II. Head Coach Mark McNellie sees Danny as a very potent weapon in the arsenal he is assembling over in Painesville.

Giving back to area youth

Dan was very eager to join other area standouts Randy Greenwood (Lake Catholic), Mike Hounshell (NDCL-Lake Erie), Alex Gedeon (Hudson-Harvard), Andre Laney (Twinsburg-Eastern Michigan) and several others on President’s Day to demonstrate speed and agility skills to the 100+ youngsters in attendance at the youth football camp held at The Edge. Best of luck to Dan and the rest of the class of 2008 and D1 members that will be taking their games to the next level and earning a great college education.

Meet the D1 Girls

2008-06-08T21:16:00.008-04:00

You may have heard of them. Some of you may have even seen them or met them at a D1 event or tailgate party. The D1 Girls, Laura and Samantha. We are very honored to have had the opportunity to have them be a part of our company. They truly do help to brighten up the football landscape. The girls take part in the marketing and public relations side of D1 Football. Whether we are attending a clinic, hosting a combine or football event or throwing a tailgate party, Sam and Laura have been there to help us out. A good example is the Ultimate Football Combine, where the girls are mainly responsible for the check-in and character evaluation of the athletes. Last year we kicked off the season at The Charity Game series at Browns’ Stadium with a blowout tailgate party and the D1 Girls made our presence known throughout the stadium-wide parties handing out D1 information and meeting with area players and fans in attendance.

Laura and Samantha at The 2007 Reebok Coaches Clinic in Columbus

The D1 Girls with VASJ standouts Dan Goodrum and Ra'Mone Billings at the 2007 Charity Game at Browns Stadium

PERSONAL INFORMATION
Sam (VASJ grad) and Laura (Richmond Heights grad) both attend The Ohio State University. Samantha is also an accomplished singer/songwriter starting out on a promising career in music and just put out her first CD! She even fired up a set of tunes for everyone in the rain at the Charity Game last season at a D1 tailgate party. Sam is majoring in psychology and will earn her BA this year and will then work on adding an Associates degree in sign language after graduating this year and she ultimately hopes to become an interpreter. Samantha helped lead VASJ to a state title in volleyball her sophomore year in high school.

Samantha performing on stage

Laura is also working on her B.A. in psychology and will graduate from OSU in 2009. She plans on working in human resources specializing in recruitment after school, but you never know. Laura is a pretty good athlete herself and also plays a mean game of volleyball. She really enjoys hanging out with her friends too!!

Laura
Samantha

Sorry guys, they are both in relationships but are still a lot of fun to be around. We’ll miss Sam at the June UFC event because she’ll be in concert that weekend in Springfield, Ohio with country stars John Michael Montgomery and Darryl Worley. What a great honor that will be for her. We’re hoping to get Laura to the event like she was last year and who knows...we may even bust out with some new “D1 Girl recruits.”

Student Athletes Taking the Next Step

2008-06-01T23:29:00.001-04:00

All of us at D1 Football are very proud of the student athletes we’ve had the honor and privilege to work with over the past couple years. We are entering our 3rd year of operations and we’re starting to really see some results of the hard work we’ve put in as well as the work the kids and their parents put forth also. Last year we saw 7 players make their move to college football. This season we will see more than a dozen student athletes take their games to the next level and play college football while getting excellent educations. We will get to see a handful of them close to home as NDCL’s Michael Hounshell, VASJ’s Dan Goodrum and Nick Viola have accepted scholarship offers to attend Division II Lake Erie College in Painesville. Among the others are Hudson’s Alex Gedeon who received an academic scholarship to Harvard and will play in Division I. We have three BIG friends at Lake Catholic, Chad Hounshell (Central Florida), Joe Gaglione (Iowa) and Dave Plungas (Albany), that will all be making the leap to Division I college football. Andre Laney from Twinsburg will be playing football at Eastern Michigan in the MAC and Kenston’s John Behm is off to D-I FCS Davidson. Euclid stud Devon Jennings will be a big play threat at Ashland this season too.

These are just a few of the players we’ve had the great experience of working with over past few years that have made the most, so far, of their football experience and get to take it up a notch. There will be more announcements and we’ll have them for you. The road doesn’t get easier for these kids and they know that. It hasn’t been easy to get this far. We have seen in them that they have what it takes and they know what it takes on and off the field to be the best they can. We look forward to seeing them play in college and we’re proud to have made any difference, no matter how big or small, in them getting the most out of their football experiences.

D1 FOOTBALL - WE ARE WATCHING YOU!

Memorial Day Weekend Middle School Camp a big success!

2008-05-24T21:12:00.010-04:00

A great number of the area's youth / middle school football players were treated to the first Memorial Day Weekend Middle School Camp and Combine at The Edge. Along with help from D1 Football and several area coaches, former Cleveland Browns Mike Pagel and Jim Pyne volunteered their time to spearhead the event. We even had some excellent stand in assistance by members of the Northcoast Vikings semi-pro football team.

One group of kids prepare for their warm-ups

The camp was broken down by position and offense worked out first. Quarterbacks were coached by Mike Pagel, former Brush standout D1 Football's Nick DiLillo and former VASJ and Mount Union College coach Ron Bayduke while Jim Pyne led the lineman workouts. Running back coach, Mike Clark, took some lighthearted ribbing throughout the day about his time playing for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Especially a few nice digs by Mike Pagel.

Coach Bayduke and Mike Pagel work on a "game plan"

D1 President Nick DiLillo and Mike Pagel - "Brothers in ARMS"

Remember the names, STEVEN CLARK son of Mike Clark (Akron's All-Time Rushing Leader) ran a 4.75 40 yard dash...Not to be out done the 43 year old father ran an impressive 5.07. Not bad old man.

Sixth Grade PHENOM ZACH LEONE was timed at 4.7 and had an explosive 8 foot 1 inch standing broad jump!!!!!!!

In all the kids had a rewarding experience and this was echoed by the parents in attendance as well. Look for this camp along with the President's Day youth football camp to become fixtures at The Edge and also check www.d1football.net for up to date information regarding the Mike Pagel Quarterback Camp and the Jim Pyne PRO Lineman Camp coming up at The Edge this summer.

The reward for all of us involved with putting this camp on is watching these young men learn and know they'll take something away from this camp that will help them when it comes time to suit up again and take the field. All these kids hustled today and showed a lot of heart and took advantage of a day to learn from true professionals.

To the players who attended. Take with you what you learned and remember football is hustle and heart and in order to succeed on the field you have to be on your game AT HOME and IN THE CLASSROOM first.

Thanks to Mike Pagel, Jim Pyne, "The ST. JOES GANG", Coach Bayduke, Brigham VanEtten, the Northcoast Viking players and the rest of the volunteer coaches who helped make today's camp a success.

-D1 Football and The Edge

Something Special in Northeast Ohio

2008-02-22T22:05:00.015-05:00

Area youth league and high school football players need only look to D1 Football and The Edge in Twinsburg to find the only place for football specific training in northeast Ohio that offers speed, skills and strength training, nutritional expertise, full athletic assessments and unlimited recruiting consultation all under one roof.....7 days a week! Nobody in this area can offer the same!!

The partnership between D1 and The Edge has led to an entirely new concept in year round football training and conditioning for the student athlete. A 65 yard by 40 yard field turf surface, professional trainers and coaches with experience from high school through the pros and an organization dedicated to providing a great experience and helping any youth or high school player the opportunity to get the most out of their football career.

The concept goes beyond just organizing combines and assessments. Year round skills training and conditioning is matched with unlimited recruiting consultation designed to provide the student athlete with the best knowledge available to them when choosing a college they want to attend. Camps and clinics dedicated to the youth football players have also been formed.

Players can take added advantage of the area's finest indoor football training center. Kickers will have ample opportunity to stay sharp in the off season. All players will have the chance to take advantage of the speed and strength sessions held throughout the week at The Edge.

You can attend the combine merry-go-round that promises to solicit your information to thousands of colleges nationwide or you can have a personal touch in selecting the college that's right for you with our unique approach to "target marketing." This isn't a one shot deal. This isn't "here's your t-shirt thanks for coming and the tapes are in the mail." You train with us year round. We assess you. We'll educate you on the recruiting process and we're there for you year round or until you graduate. We're all on one team here...Team D1/Edge Football!

A more intensive and specific manner to supplement your ongoing off season weight & conditioning programs. Those who participate will definitely have a competitive EDGE when summer work outs begin. This program is tailored to implement football specific and conditioning drills, group sessions and chalk talk sessions that address and benefit all Offensive and Defensive positions. The areas of the game that are covered in this program is the same information that every middle school, junior high and high school summer practices start off with every season giving you, your coaching staff and team a leg up on your opponents who sit idle during the off season.

The current list of schools that our roster of athletes represent include: VASJ, Lake Catholic, Hudson, Twinsburg, Kenston, Kirtland, Euclid, Perry, Chanel, Streetsboro, Solon, Benedictine, Bay Village, Niles McKinley, Chardon, Willoughby South and Nordonia.

Keep updated on all of the events at The Edge by visiting www.edgespa.com and stay informed on northeast Ohio high school and youth football news by visiting THE SCOREBOARD at www.d1football.net

2008 promises to offer us all of the excitement that 2007 delivered and then some!

D1 Football and The Edge. Un-Paralleled and Un-Rivaled in northeast Ohio!

"Schoolz Out" Youth Camp A Success!

2008-02-20T14:26:00.011-05:00

The areas top youth football players came out in droves on President's Day to get a leg up on the upcoming football season. High School coaches from Nordonia, Hudson, NDCL, Chagrin Falls and VASJ joined the D1/Edge staff to lead an instructional camp for over 100 youth athletes grade 3-8.

After the instructional sessions, the campers were treated to a T-Shirt, pizza and an agility demonstration by local high school stand-outs Mike Hounshell (NDCL - to attend Lake Erie College), Alex Gedeon (Hudson - to attend Harvard), Randy Greenwood (Lake Catholic), Andre Laney (Twinsburg), Danny Goodrum (VASJ), Mike Niam (Hudson - to attend South Carolina) and John Hamilton (Nordonia). After their demo, the high school stars were joined in the drills by members of our "Junior Edge" football program. This was a great opportunity for these youngsters to meet a handful of the area high school players they look up to and admire.

This was the first of many similar events to be hosted by D1 Football and The Edge.

The partnership of D1 Football and The Edge has developed into the only place for football specific training in northeast Ohio that offers speed, skills and strength training, nutritional expertise, full athletic assessments and unlimited recruiting consultation all under one roof.....7 days a week! Nobody in this area can offer the same!!

D1 Football and The Edge - Unparalleled Football Training for northeast Ohio.

NDCL's Hounshell makes it official

2008-02-05T22:27:00.000-05:00

NDCL senior Michael Hounshell received the paperwork Tuesday evening and come Wednesday morning his signature will make it official. He will accept a scholarship to Lake Erie College and take the first step toward his college football career with the Lake Erie Storm.

I spoke with Michael tonight and he's very excited and looking forward to this tremendous opportunity. He plans to have the paperwork completed before leaving for school on Wednesday morning.

Mike Hounshell #55

Congratulations again from those of us at D1 Football to Michael and his family on this great opportunity.

You can read more about this passionate and driven young student athlete by clicking on this link http://provinit.blogspot.com/2008/01/catagory-6-hurricane-will-add-to-storm.html

D1 Announces NEW Partnership!

2008-02-05T21:53:00.000-05:00

D1 Football is very proud to announce it's partnership with The Edge Sports Performance Academy in Twinsburg, Ohio. This is an excellent opportunity for D1 to blend our unique, personalized assessment and recruiting consultation service with the training systems used at The Edge.

To schedule an assessment call 330-487-0452 or email Nick DiLillo at ndilillo@edgespa.com.

visit The Edge on the web at www.edgespa.com

D1 Football will be on hand at all Edge events to answer all of your football specific training and recruiting questions.

D1 Football - Over 30 years playing and coaching at all levels from high school to the pros! We're not sports writers, we've played the game, we have been where you want to go and we can't point you in the right direction like no other "so-called" recruiting company in northeast Ohio.

"A Catagory 6 Hurricane will add to The Storm!"

2008-01-22T17:33:00.000-05:00

Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin senior lineman Michael Hounshell has made it official and, after visiting several colleges since the end of the season, will accept an offer from Lake Erie College to play Division II football next season. This scholarship was made possible by a combination of hard work and hustle by Mike on and off the football field along with tremendous support, backing and promotion by his family and D1 Football.

NDCL LT/DL Michael Hounshell #55

Many words can be used to describe Mike, hustle, passion, desire, intensity, toughness all come to mind, but the one that does it best is HEART. Here is a kid that was looked over for two years by his former coach at NDCL prior to this season and never really given a chance. He never gave up and had a very special off-season where he worked very hard and remained focused on getting the most out of football like never before and this year, his senior season he made a monster impact. Mike was named to the 2nd Team All-District team by the AP, 2nd Team All Conference, 2nd Team All-County and 1st Team News Herald All-Star Team. "The Hurricane" even earned the D1 "Shut Up and Play the Game!" GameDay MVP award for week 2 of the 2007 season. He had so many pancakes he could have opened his own IHOP Restaurant after that game against Chagrin Falls. That win was also the 200th win for NDCL head coach Byron Morgan.

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Physical and academic ability
The 6'2" 250 pounder from Willoughby isn't just tearing it up at left tackle and defensive tackle on the gridiron, he's carrying a 3.6 GPA and was even offered an academic scholarship from Mount Union after a recent visit to the school. A true example of the "student-athlete."

His size and strength is impressive with a max bench press of 325 pounds and pressing 225 pounds 20 times at our recent combine, but his speed is what is really eye opening. Michael ran a 4.89 second 40 yard dash (laser timed) and a 4.62 second 20 yard short shuttle. A 29 inch vertical jump coupled with a 8'4" broad jump rounded out his testing scores.

Michael Hounshell has had nothing but tremendous support at home from his parents who are truly dedicated to seeing him achieve his goal of taking his football to the next level, but are even more proud of his hard work and achievements academically. Those of us at D1 Football who have had the honor and privilege to work with Mike and come to know his family are equally as proud. To see this young man's dedication to getting in the best shape physically and mentally for college and college football is something special. He has been a great example to all of the players we've worked with all year long. He has definitely made the most of the opportunity he got to play high school football and now the "Lake Erie Storm has added a Hurricane" to it's arsenal. Good luck Mike!

Greenwood and Bell receive their awards

2007-11-27T17:50:00.000-05:00

Courtesy of www.d1football.net
and THE SCOREBOARD

Lake Catholic's Randy Greenwood was presented his Northeast Ohio Player of the Year award as recognized by players and coaches from the area courtesy of D1 Football. An excellent 5 position player and true MVP, Greenwood helped lead his team to a regional championship this year as a junior. A heartbreaking loss to Licking Valley in the state semi-finals sent the Cougars of Lake Catholic home a week earlier than they would have liked, but it's a step further than last season and a learning experience for next year as Lake should be heavily favored for a return trip deep into the playoffs.

Lake Catholic junior Randy Greenwood

Randy's head coach, Mike Bell, was also voted Northeast Ohio Coach of the Year. Coach Bell, along with an excellent group of assistant coaches, orchestrated a hard fought playoff season for Lake Catholic. A season that started out with a victory over Euclid on opening day, the Panthers' only regular season loss. The rest of the schedule had it's share of ups and downs but in the end, the Cougars had a share of the 4-way conference title in the North Coast League and hosted their first round playoff game then proceeded to roll on to a regional championship.

Lake Catholic head coach Mike Bell

We congratulate these two individuals on their accomplishments even though we know they would rather be suiting up this weekend and playing for the Division III state title. However, we look forward to next season when that final step can be taken to complete the journey. The journey to a state high school football championship.

Player of the Year voting:
The voting breakdown:
1. Greenwood (40%)
2. Rossi Santo-Kirtland (30%)
3. Dan Goodrum-VASJ (15%)
4. Vinny Hokavar-Perry (9%)
5T. Bart Tanski-Mentor (3%)
5T. Devon Jennings-Euclid (3%)

Voting was based on averages, not total stats. Contributions to team both offensively and defensively and special teams.

Coach of the Year voting:
Voting breakdown:
1. Bell (44%)
2. Steve Trivisonno - Mentor (39%)
3. Byron Morgan - NDCL (7%)
4T. Matt Melle - VASJ (5%)
4T. Dave Bors - West Geauga (5%)

Mooney rides 28 game winning streak into the finals!

2007-11-26T13:22:00.000-05:00

Youngstown Cardinal Mooney enters this weekend's match-up with Coldwater on a 28 game winning streak. The longest in the state. The Cardinals have been unstoppable the past two seasons. Their toughest game was this season against Akron St. Vincent-St. Mary when they trailed 17-0 at the half then rallied to win the game 20-17 doing most of their scoring in the 4th quarter. The Cardinals offense will be led by senior running back/line backer Brandon Beachum who has carried the offense since the loss of quarterback Dan McCarthy.

Will the Cardinals up their winning streak to 29 with a second straight Division IV title? We'll find out Saturday at 3pm from Massillon. Good luck Cardinals.

North vs. South! "The Dream" vs. "The Hype"

2007-11-26T13:04:00.000-05:00

The Division I state finals should be a familiar site to Mentor head coach Steve Trivisonno, whose team lost a heart breaker to Hilliard Davidson last season losing to the 2-point conversion. During the regular season Mentor's second loss of the season came via the 2-point conversion at the hands of playoff qualifier Euclid. That had to have seemed like deja vu to Triv, but nonetheless he kept his team focused and they have fought their way to the state finals for the second straight year.

Mentor will take on nationally ranked Cincinnati St. Xavier. They return to the finals after winning the title back in 2005 over Massillon and 4 straight playoff appearances. The Bombers come into this game with a 14-0 record, but narrowly grinding out a win over Dublin Coffman last week 10-7. It's obvious, no matter how well you play during the regular season, the playoff grind can start to wear on a team. That may have been the case with St. Xavier.

The Cardinals will look to Fisher award winner Bart Tanski to lead their talented offensive attack against the Bombers defense Saturday night. He'll have the weapons around him to be effective too. St. Xavier is battling a few key injuries that may hamper their offense, but have yet to be a factor in any games they play. The Bombers will have to live up to their hype against a very strong Mentor squad if they want to emerge victorious. It will definitely not be a cake walk for St.X.

In the end, this game may simply come down to good coaching. Both are capable. Both have had great success. Which one will come away with a ring this weekend? The hypsters will say St.X by virtue of being nationally ranked, but that means absolutely nothing to do with who wins anything in the playoffs. This year may be different. The North may have regained the edge in this one. We'll see. Good luck to both teams.

Kickoff is scheduled for 7pm from Canton's Fawcett Stadium this Saturday, December 1st. Yes it's December already! The season has flown by, but not before giving us some great highlights and great memories for area teams.

I've known Sam Fikaris since he was born and D1 believed in him now see what he's doing...

2007-11-24T21:22:00.000-05:00

Fikaris makes immediate impact

By Joe Tuscano, Staff writer

jtuscano@observer-reporter.com

Sam Fikaris might not realize it, but he could be the most amazing story on California University's football team this season.

If the name seems unfamiliar, you are not alone.

Fikaris entered fall camp third on the depth chart at nose tackle. But Avery Goode, the projected starter, left to take a job and his backup Andre Williams was forced out of football because of a back injury.

Fikaris beat out three others to gain the starting position and will be there today when the Vulcans battle Southern Connecticut State in the first round of the NCAA Division II playoffs at Adamson Stadium. Kickoff is noon.

Fikaris has 24 tackles, including seven for losses, and two quarterback sacks for the 11-0 Vulcans. Not bad for someone lining up for Mayfield Heights (Ohio) football team last season.

"I knew I might have a chance to rotate in," said Fikaris, a 6-2, 270-pound freshman. "I didn't expect to start. I had no idea there would be an opening."

There is a good reason for that. Head coach John Luckhardt rarely allows freshmen to start.

"He's had a tremendous year for us," Luckhardt said. "Sam came ready to play."

Fikaris is part of the best defense in Division II but still had to convince his teammates that he could play his position.

"In my first scrimmage, the first time we went full go, I got by Tim McCutcheon and batted a ball down," Fikaris said of Cal's three-time All-America lineman. "I felt that if I could go against the best lineman in the nation, I can go against anyone."

Like the rest of the Vulcans, Fikaris is eager to play in the school's first playoff game. Last season, Mayfield made the playoffs for the first time since Fikaris arrived and won its first-round game.

"I felt we were in after the ninth game," said Fikaris of the 22-13 victory over Slippery Rock. "(Southern Connecticut) is a sold offensive team. They had 550 yards last week. They have big guys on their offensive line but the coaches tell us they are not the most athletic. If we can stop their running game, I feel we can shut them down."

Now that's power

Power rankings normally capture the interest of bettors and fans. So take the following for what it's worth.

The Born Power Index provides power ratings for New Jersey and Pennsylvania high schools and most college football teams.

The system uses a mathematical equation to figure out spreads. In today's game, California is listed as 20.7 points stronger than Southern Connecticut.

Congratulations to VASJ's All-District players

2007-11-14T10:17:00.000-05:00

VASJ senior LB/RB Nick Viola was named Division IV Defensive Player of the Year as well as North Coast League 1st Team All-Conference on defense. Nick's defensive contributions included a team leading 95 tackles (26 solo), 2 forced fumbles, 1 fumble recovery and a sack. On the offensive side he helped spell Toney Foster and Dan Goodrum by rushing for over 300 yards and scoring 4 touchdowns, not to mention his vicious blocking that helped Foster to a near-1,000 yard season.

VASJ's Nick Viola

Other Vikings to receive Division IV All-District honors included:
1st Team
Running back- sophomore Toney Foster, Jr.; Tight End- senior Jeff Rossman; Lineman- junior Antonio Tate; Defensive- end senior Dan Goodrum Viking kicker Scott Szczepinski received Honorable mention.

Vikings represented the North Coast Conference well too. The following Vikings were also All-Conference in the NCL.
1st Team Offense:
Rashon Caronchi (JR) OT; Rossman (SR) TE; Foster, Jr (SOPH) TB; Tate (JR) OT
1st Team Defense:
Viola (SR) LB; Goodrum (SR) DE
2nd Team Offense:
Andre Wells (JR) QB; Ken Brately (JR) OG; Darius Petraitus (SR) LB; Ra'Mone Billings (SR) SS; Szczepinski (JR) K. Senior LB John Pokorny received Honorable Mention.

We've watched these kids work very hard during the off-season and we were there to see them in action during the season. It is very special seeing them take all they have learned and watching them develop throughout the course of the season. VASJ seems to be headed in the right direction under the guidance of new Athletic Director Duane Carter and new Head Coach Matt Melle, both VASJ graduates.

Duane Carter VASJ Head Coach Matt Melle

Wells Billings Foster
Goodrum Caronchi
Rossman Brately

Szczepinski Tate

These Vikings have got all of the potential to return to the forefront of northeast Ohio high school football prominence. Something it hasn't enjoyed steadily since the 80's. They did get to the championship game in 2003 only to be shutout and since then it's been a struggle, but it appears consistency may be on the rise. A foundation of former Vikings make-up the administration and the athletic department which will hopefully mark a return to tradition and the winning atmosphere that made St. Joes/VASJ a feared opponent throughout the state of Ohio.

D1 Football is very proud of your accomplishments and is very honored to be part or have been part of your football experience. You have all represented your families, schools and your teammates with class and character. We are committed to you and to the advancement of your football experience.

A Night to Remember for Lake Catholic

2007-11-10T14:27:00.000-05:00

"The Return of the GameDay MVP!"

Tonight it was host to on of the Division 3 Region 9 semi-final games of the 2007 playoffs between Lake Catholic and Rocky River.Lakewood Stadium, normally home to the Lakewood Rangers and occasionally St. Edward. Talking with head coach Mike Bell, Randy Greenwood and Chad Hounshell before the opening kick-off I could sense the conviction to winning. These men were "confident" tonight, not cocky. You knew you were about to see something special tonight and we truly did.
Essentially a home game for the Pirates the crowd was out in force for Rocky River early, but the east-siders closed the gap and by the end of the first quarter the place was packed nearly to capacity.

Cool and calm to start out, the game got underway and Lake Catholic scored first with a touchdown run by Pat Sweigert, who soon followed up with the second score of the game to push the Cougars out to a 14-0 lead. Rocky River did get on the board to make it 14-7 through the first quarter.
In the second quarter the Pirates scored again, but Lake blocked the ensuing point after try and the score at halftime was 14-13 in favor of Lake Catholic. As the second half got under way, you could see Cougar head coach Mike Bell's game plan go to work.Junior running back Randy Greenwood would be the major weapon from here on out. Running with fluid movement and power like a young Marcus Allen, playing defensive back and punting, the kid was nails! A drive down deep into Pirate territory saw Greenwood explode on defenders breaking 3 tackles to score from 6 yards out. Being right on the sidelines and "hearing" the collision made me long to return to the gridiron. The sound only a player could appreciate fully! These Cougars found themselves leading the game 21-13 in the third quarter when the Pirates of Rocky River put together a couple good drives and forged ahead to lead 25-21. The latter drive was made possible by a fumbled punt return by Lake Catholic, however two failed two-point conversions left Rocky River only ahead by 4 points.
Late fourth quarter, here comes the wind and a chilling rain. That didn't put a chill on Lake's attack who put the ball in the hands of the kid with "No Quit", Randy Greenwood and with just over 3 minutes to go, Greenwood scored from 14 yards out after it seemed he'd be tackled for a loss of a yard. Now the Cougars were back on top 28-25 as the rain picked up as did the wind. The Pirates drove deep into Lake territory, but an attempted pass into the endzone was picked off by Lake Catholic's Matt Lender with just over a minute to go securing the win and sending the Cougars into next weeks regional final against Cortland Lakeview who upset top seed Walsh Jesuit earlier in the evening.

Enjoy this night because next week it doesn't get easier, it never does in the playoffs. Practice hard, listen to your coaches and play your hearts out next week once again. We'll be there watching you. Good luck.

PLAYOFFS 2007 - ROUND 2

2007-11-04T20:48:00.000-05:00

Week one offered us some thrilling games, some blowouts and some unforeseen upsets.

In D-I, Mentor made it look easy ousting Painesville Riverside 38-14. The Cardinals look like they are determined to return to the state title game where they came oh so close to winning last year. Solon used balance and solid defense to defeat North Royalton. These two teams will meet in round two. Although Glenville did get by St. Ignatius 23-20, the week's biggest upset was clearly Boardman knocking off the highly touted Euclid Panthers 14-7. The Spartans used really effective ball control to keep Euclid's high powered offense off of the field for most of the game. Boardman and Glenville will clash in round two. Brunswick continued it's dominance with a 48-25 win over Canton Glenoak, but now they face a bigger test in Toledo Whitmer. A team that isn't shy about scoring. We'll have to see how Brunswick's defense can do against this type of power they haven't seen yet this season.

D-II saw Mayfield engage in battle against a gritty Padua team and pull out a hard fought 12-10 win. The Wilcats advance to take on Warren Howland who annihilated Madison 49-7. Bedford Stadium will play host for the other round two match-up between Tallmadge and Normandy.

D-III action will see Lake Catholic taking on Rocky River. Lake cam from behind to defeat Ravenna 21-20 in round one despite not having all-purpose runner Randy Greenwood in uniform. He's back this week but Coach Mike Bell will need everything to work to bring home a win. Region 9's other game features powerful Walsh Jesuit and Cortland Lakeview who beat 9-1 Aurora to advance.

D-IV has a marquee game that all eyes will be on when defending D-IV state champion Youngstown Mooney collides with Akron St. Vincent-St. Mary for the second time this season. The first meeting saw Mooney play badly in the first half and fall behind 17-0 to the Irish. They got it together in the second half and rallied for a 20-17 win with high powered offense and shut down defense after the half. Nobody has been able to stop the Cardinals this year. Can you say repeat. The other big Region 13 match-up is Steubenville's Big Red taking on Canton Central Catholic. Should the Big Red win it could set the stage for a game that could be more anticipated than even the D-I title game. Steubenville vs. Mooney???

D-V features Gilmour Academy taking on South Range and Youngstown Ursuline takes it's monster-sized team up against Apple Creek.

Playoff Time - Our thoughts, NOT picks.

2007-10-31T12:29:00.000-04:00

It is arguably the best time of the year. Fall is here, Halloween, a change of seasons and high school football playoffs are upon us. There may be some buzz in greater Cleveland about a couple Division I teams and their chances, but for east-siders, the representation runs wide and deep. We start with Mentor, last year's runner-up to the Division I title. The Cardinals are poised and appear to be peaking at the right time to settle in for a long playoff run, perhaps back to the title game. They face some immediate competition right in their own back yard. Painesville Riverside took it right down to the wire and a win over Madison in week 10 put them into the fray and they'll tangle with Mentor in round one.

The Euclid Panthers have reasserted themselves into the post season in a big way finishing the regular season 9-1 which included a thrilling 35-34 win over Mentor. Coach Mike Rezzolla has the big cats purring at a pace to go deep into the playoffs as well. D1 prospects Howard Drake and Devon Jennings have been the cornerstones of a talented offense that helped power Euclid back into the post season and a first round game at home against Boardman.

Solon will play host to North Royalton in a battle between east and west in the first round and Nordonia will be at home for game one taking on Perrysburg.

Division II continues the eastside trend as the Blue Streaks of Madison travel to Warren Howland for their first game. Running back Nick Yeager has been strong and consistent all season behind a great offensive line anchored by big Kevin Hendricks and company. Mayfield finds themselves at home taking on Padua and the Bruins have found some of their early season magic as of late but Wildcats have been very hot toward the end of the season.

Off to Division III where Aurora has been solid all season long finishing 9-1. The Greenmen play host to Cortland in what should be a very good battle. Lake Catholic got off to a great start this year dropping Euclid in their opener, but from then on the road had its ups and downs. The Cougars finished the regular season with a loss to arch rival Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin and lost their only solid offensive weapon in running back Randy Greenwood who is suspended for game 1 of the playoffs due to a game 10 ejection last week. It will take great coaching and an "all hands on deck" approach against Ravenna. One positive is they play at home for round one.

Division IV features one of the best quarterbacks in northeast Ohio. Perry junior Vinny Hokavar, while enduring a painful separated shoulder several weeks ago has led his team to a 9-1 record. "Air" Hokavar has been the key to the Pirates run into the postseason under new head coach Matt Rosati and they must hope he's healthy and keep him that way if they stand a chance against a bigger Akron St. Vincent-St. Mary team. The Irish did have a 17-0 lead over D-IV titan and reigning D-IV state champ Youngstown Mooney and got run late in the second half and lost that game 21-17.

The Kirtland Fighting Hornets have been a bright spot in D-V all season. They got off to a 4-0 start, stumbled losing the next two then rebounded to finish the season strong. Hard to stop Rossi Santo has been their best weapon on offense scoring 26 regular touchdowns out of the backfield. They face a tough task however in round one as they travel to take on South Range who finished 10-0.

Good luck to all of these teams, players and coaches alike. Play strong and hard. Listen to your coaches, play fair and play to win. Remember, D1 Football is watching you.

Player of the Year

2007-10-25T20:37:00.000-04:00

In accordance to the same criteria used during the regular season for the "Shut Up and Play the Game" GameDay MVPs, D1 Football will present a Player of the Year award during the post-season. This award exemplifies HEART and HUSTLE.

There are great players that ride the coattails of a successful team. Then there are those guys that go and lay it all out there each week to help their team be successful. Those are true MVPs.

Each of the 10 regular season MVPs are eligible and we're adding a couple more as the season winds down. In addition to the regular season winners we've added several other names worthy of consideration. This list will be narrowed to 10 semi-finalists then down to 5 finalists then voted on by D1 Football's celebrity panel.

Not only will stats be compiled, but we also take into account the intangibles such as HEART and HUSTLE along with coaches and classmates and teammates.

Good luck to you all and we'll keep you all informed on the announcements forthcoming.

Current list:
GameDay MVPs-
1. Vinny Hokavar - Perry
2. Michael Hounshell - NDCL
3. Dan Goodrum - VASJ
4. Nick Proudfoot - Ledgemont
5. Toney Foster - VASJ
6. Travis Smith - Euclid
7. Kevin Hendricks - Madison
8. Randy Greenwood - Lake Catholic
9. Bobby Scott - West Geauga
10. Rossi Santo - Kirtland

Others for consideration:
Bart Tanski - Mentor
Nick Yeager - Madison
Howard Drake - Euclid
Devon Jennings - Euclid
Ashante Williams - Mayfield
Isaiah Charlton - Chardon
Josh Lewis - Benedictine
McConnell Smith - University

SPECIAL INCLUSION TO THIS ANNOUNCEMENT WILL BE COACH OF THE YEAR. This will be the kickoff to next year's Coach of the Week award we'll present during the regular season.

CONTEST - GUESS THE STADIUM AND WIN!

2007-10-21T09:01:00.000-04:00

"Do you think you know northeast Ohio high school football?"

The following pictures are aerial shots of area high school football stadiums/fields. Guess them ALL and win a FREE large Pizza from Zeppe's compliments of D1 Football. Guess them ALL, PLUS the bonus "mystery" stadium and we'll throw in a little something extra!! The pictures are numbered, so answer accordingly. Email your answer to ufc@d1football.net. We will award 3 winners!! Good luck!

Stadium #1 ???

Stadium #2 ???

Stadium #3 ???

Stadium #4 ???

Stadium #5 ???

Stadium #6 ???

"MYSTERY" STADIUM ???

Remember to e-mail your answers to ufc@d1football.net. If you have them all right, we'll email you back and get your information and send you your winnings! Remember be one of the first 3 to win!

Diehard Support -Perry vs West Geauga

2007-10-20T05:07:00.000-04:00

Last night D1 had the honor of being on the sidelines for the West Geauga - Perry game in support of our players and coaches on both sidelines. This was supposed to be a game that sealed a home game in the first round of the playoffs for the Pirates from Perry. This was supposed to be Perry head coach Matt Rosati battling his former team, the West Geauga Wolverines. This was supposed to be the return to the playing field for Vinny "Air" Hokavar, probably the most talented quarterback in high school football in northeast Ohio. It was supposed to be a great game. What happened stunned the big crowd as West Geauga rolled up 41 points against a team rought with injury and players deactivated for the game. Vinny Hokavar started the game for the Pirates and threw the ball sparingly, limited by the extent of pain in his throwing shoulder. Halftime saw Hokavar return from the locker room without his pads. Good move as the Wolverines had done a lot of damage in the first half already leading 20-0.

Perry did manage to move the ball in the third quarter and garner a score, but that was about all they could do without their start quarterback and leader in the huddle. Big credit to Vinny who stayed right with his teammates on the sidelines throughout this agonizing loss, their first of the season. Though they may have slipped from a home game in round one of the playoffs, they can still pull out a win next week to close the regular season and possibly reclaim that first round homer. Congratulations to Dave Bors and a nice win over the best opponent they've faced all season long. Attacking on offense and an absolute "shut down" defense.

Seeing how lethargic and hampered on offense leads me to think, for this team, can one player truly make the difference? In game play, NO, but emotionally and mentally the team may have taken a hit that they couldn't overcome. This isn't too uncommon. Hats off to Perry head coach Matt Rosati who kept his guys fired up, although you had to figure he knew he was limited to what he could do and he had already veered from his normal gameplan. He very much deserves a nod as coach of the year.

As for our official visit, we had a great time making the rounds, meeting with moms and dads, players, the youth football and various school representatives. The fans were incredible. Now here is a place that has a terrific fan base. Beautiful facility too and a great atmosphere. Below are some pictures from the night. Stay together Pirates. You're still in the thick of the playoff hunt. Believe in your coach, he knows how to get you where you want to go. Believe in yourselves. You can jump right back on the track to winning. Vinny, keep you chin up and rest that arm for the playoffs. You are your team's leader. Good luck.

Fans out in force.

Do they love their coach or what?

Air Hokavar checks the plays.

Pirate huddle.

Air DiLillo joins the band!

Greenwood earns GameDay MVP honors.

2007-10-14T16:29:00.000-04:00

Lake Catholic junior running back Randy Greenwood has been named D1 Football's "Shut Up and Play the Game" GameDay MVP for week 8 of the 2007 season. He'll be receiving his award and gear this week. Randy joins a healthy list of student athletes that showed "HEART" and "HUSTLE" helping their teams succeed on the field. The current list of this years winners so far include:

Week 1 - Vinny Hokavar, QB/FS, Perry High School
Week 2 - Michael Hounshell, OL/DL, Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin High School

Week 3 - Dan Goodrum, RB/DE, Villa Angela-St. Joseph High School
Week 4 - Nick Proudfoot, RB, LB, Ledgemont High School

Week 5 - Toney Foster, RB/DB, Villa Angela-St. Joseph High School

Week 6 - Travis Smith, WR/LB, Euclid High School

Week 7 - Kevin Hendricks, OL, Madison High School
Week 8 - Randy Greenwood, RB, Lake Catholic High School

The winners of this award receive their plaque and a spirit package from our sponsors. A nice touch and a small way to show our support for the efforts they make at home, in school and on the field. Keep up the great effort guys. HEART makes a champion.

Only two weeks left...who will be the next two GameDay MVPs?

D1 Football Success Stories

2007-10-10T11:44:00.000-04:00

D1 Football would like to help you advance. Not only do we have a strong faith our program, but we also believe many other things that directly affect our passion to see you reach your goals…

D1 Football believes that every young man, that is seven or in eleventh grade, deserves our full attention and passion.

We believe that in 90 SECONDS, We can change the way a young man thinks about the way he wants to play out his football career.

We believe that in the soul and heart of every young man in this country, athlete or not,…… is the someone just looking for a chance. They want no guarantees. They just want someone to tell them what opportunities lie ahead, show them how to achieve it, and then believe in them enough to let them try.

What do you believe?

Here are some guys playing at the next level that believed in D1 and our philosophy, we believed in them, but more importantly they believed in themselves:

Brigham VanEtten (West Geauga '07), WR - University of Akron

Jerome Royal (Cleve Hts '07), WR - University of Akron

Nate Schkurko (Twinsburg '07), Long/Short Snapper - Youngstown State University

Jim McDonald (Riverside '07), LB - Ashland University

Justin Jones (NDCL '07), LB - Ashland University

Sam Fikaris (Mayfield '07), DL - California University of Pennsylvania

We've been where you guys want to go and we truly believe that we can help you get there. It's not easy and it's not all on us either. We make no guarantees, but if YOU want it bad enough and YOU put in your effort to strive toward your dream then there's no telling where you can go. Maybe a scholarship, maybe an invited walk-on or maybe advice if you want to walk-on yourself. We've done those things and our experience will take you farther than any recruiter in a suit that never played the game or took the journey. We have associates with our team that have played and coached high school, college and professional football. Together we have well over 30 years of experience with this great sport.

You have to commit. You have to be willing to do your best, first at home, then in school and then on the football field. Do not slack off in your studies. Pay attention at practice and then play your hearts out on the weekends. Be sure to take part in all that D1 has to offer. The Ultimate Football Combine held each June (plus the FREE baseline event in February), get signed up on the website and get your profile (your football resume) started NOW. Talk to your counselors at school and get the ball rolling on your NCAA Clearinghouse information. GET WITH US AND TALK FOOTBALL AND TAKING YOUR GAME TO THE NEXT LEVEL!

D1 FOOTBALL WILL BE WATCHING YOU.

D1 "Ballers" getting it done!

2007-10-04T17:44:00.000-04:00

You can look at stats and think WOW that kid is great depending on his TOTAL stats. This is high school football NOT the NFL. Look at the AVERAGES and what the kids do WHEN THEY GET A CHANCE TO PASS, CARRY OR CATCH THE BALL.

First let's look at quarterback ratings. These are the top QBs in the area based on the NFL, NCAA and AFL (arena) QB rating systems. Remember a RATING is factual, a RANKING is subject to human error.

1. Howard Drake (Euclid), NFL - 120.3, NCAA - 174.9, AFL - 114.7
2. Vinny Hokavar (Perry), NFL - 119.7, NCAA - 183.6, AFL - 116.16
3. McConnell Smith (University), NFL - 117.1, NCAA - 172.1, AFL - 109.1

For those thinking what I think you're thinking...
Bart Tanski (Mentor), NFL - 106.1, NCAA - 154.2, AFL - 99.8

Now check these D1 kids out. Just some random stats and averages that are impressive.

Vinny Hokavar (Perry) 63/111 1119 yds passing 16 TD / 3 INT
Howard Drake (Euclid) 62/103 905 yds passing 14 TDS . 2 INT
Andre Wells (VASJ) 23/45 310 YDS passing 5 TDS / 1 INT

Kyle Petersen (Chardon) 83 rushes 740 YDS ( 8.9avg) 9TDS (11 total)
Toney Foster, Jr (VASJ) 96 rushes 554 YDS (5.8 avg) 6 TDS
Dan Goodrum (VASJ) 34 rushes 303 YDS (8.9 avg) 4 TDS (5 total)

These are just a sample of what kids are doing to help their teams. Remember look at the AVERAGES. That is a true measure as to what the kids are doing when they get the ball.

Congratulations guys. Keep playing your hearts out. Drive your teams into the post season. Inspire your teammates.

D1 Football will be watching you!

"Shut Up and Play the Game" GameDay MVP awards

2007-10-03T10:44:00.000-04:00

Dan Goodrum week 3 MVP

Toney Foster, Jr. week 5 MVP

Travis Smith week 6 MVP

This season D1 Football began the "Shut Up and Play the Game" GameDay MVP awards given out each week to the player who best fits this description. His team may not win the game, he may not have the biggest stat total, may not even be a skill position player. This award exemplifies HEART and HUSTLE. A true difference maker. Not a media darling. A player who wins this award receives a plaque and a spirit package compliments of some of our sponsors. T-shirts will soon be added to the package.

Week 1 started out with a bang and Perry High School's Vinny Hokavar took the inaugural honors. This junior quarterback has set the standard this season, not only on the field, but at home and in the classroom.

Week 2 the award was given to Michael Hounshell of NDCL for taking his offensive line play to a new level and helping get the offense and the team on track for their first win of the season and head coach Byron Morgan's 200th victory of his career.

Week 3 was a difficult one to hand out as VASJ's Dan Goodrum put together an ourstanding display encompassing more than 250 all-purpose yards and 3 sacks in three quarters of play until the game was suspended due to lightning with the Vikings leading Maple heights 29-12. The next day the game was completed and for some reason Dan saw "zero" touches
and the game plan went too conservative allowing the Mustangs back in the game and on to victory 33-29. Nonetheless Dan deserved the award for what he did on the original night of the game.

Week 4 we had a dilemma. Too many good performances and players that made a difference, so we put the award up for a vote on the website, www.d1football.net. Ledgemont's Nick Proudfoot won the voting narrowly beating out VASJ's Toney Foster, Jr. The other nominees included Chardon's Kyle Petersen, Benedictine's Josh Lewis and Padua's Andy Dziak.

Week 5 was an easy choice....Toney Foster, Jr. from VASJ locked up the award with a follow-up against Holy Name to his breakaway game the week before against Shaw.

Week 6 the GameDay MVP was clearly Euclid's Travis Smith who exploded to help his Panthers knock off top rated Mentor 35-34.

Now week 7 is upon us and things still aren't "locked" for teams vying for playoff spots. This week is THE week in high school football here. This is the make or break week for a lot of teams. Some teams on the bubble could see their's "pop" if they don't play their hearts out. Villa Angela-St. Joseph and Lake Catholic come to mind as well as Lake's opponent Padua. NDCL also faces a critical game in order to stay in the points chase against Akron Hoban, who has no shot at all of the post season. Chardon, who's been strong all season, could be on the outside looking in if they drop this week's game to Madison. Both teams are 4-2, but Madison has only recently picked up the tempo of their play.

Who will be the GameDay MVP for week 7?

Will any of these make or break games come down to the GameDay MVP being the deciding factor?

We can only watch and see. We can only watch and enjoy northeast Ohio high school football 2007.

Underclassmen, get on our site and start building your football resume.

2007-09-29T21:31:00.001-04:00

Seniors, this applies to you too if you haven't already started working on your college plans. It still isn't too late. Now is the time of the year when we're putting together highlights films and prepping letters to send out to college coaches. Go to our site www.d1football.net and start your online profile and then get ready for the baseline combine event in February.

The February event is the forerunner to the Ultimate Football Combine in June. If you have never participated in a combine before, the baseline is a good way to see what it's like and see what to expect, plus the baseline event is FREE.

Any questions, e-mail Director of Football Operations, Rusty Bliss at rbliss@d1football.net or D1 President Nick DiLillo at ndilillo@d1football.net.

"YOU KNOW YOU'RE THE BEST...PROVE IT!"

We start the blogging with the playoff hunt!

2007-09-29T20:50:00.000-04:00

WELCOME TO THE D1 BLOGSITE ADDED COMPLIMENTS OF BLOGSPOT.COM!!

High school football has just gone beyond the halfway point and as I write this, my alma mater, Sy. Joes, now Villa Angela-St. Joseph is leading Chanel 21-3 at halftime in a crucial match-up for the Vikings. A win could surely catapult them into the playoff fray of Division 4 Region 13.

D1 was on hand last night at Euclid as the Panthers ripped Mentor's heart out with a gutsy call by head coach Mike Rezzolla to go for two points and the win rather than tie and head to overtime.

The shuttle pass from Howard Drake out of the holder's position to James Thomas worked for 2 points and the Panthers knocked out the reigning heavyweight champ of Division 1 Region 1.

Solon also won big on Friday 55-0 over Lakewood, but will they get enough points to overtake the Panthers, who are sure to get a ton of secondary points from Mentor.

Staying on the east side, Lake Catholic struggled with a faltering Holy Name green Wave team, but won 28-14 clinging to playoffs hopes for the Cougars.

Perry continued to roll, beating a tough Orange team 29-22 behind QB Vinny Hokavar, probably the best quarterback in the area, bar none and that includes Mentor's Bart Tanski.

Chardon returned to the winner column by destroying Eastlake 47-6 behind nearly 200 yards rushing by Kyle Petersen, who also scored a touchdown for the Hilltoppers.

A few surprises included Kirtland dropping it's second straight after starting the season 4-0 and Richmond Heights sailed into Fairport Harbor and beat up on the Skippers 48-20 to up their record to 4-2.

Saturday, today actually, had a nice start to it with the resurgence of the NDCL Lions against Cleveland Central Catholic as the Ironmen were dispatched at the tune of 56-0. Lion QB Brad Stricker threw 3 TDs and ran for 2 as well.

Gotta run, but in closing, the Vikings of VASJ have just gone up 27-3 over Chanel with an interception return for a touchdown. Take care everybody, have a safe weekend, come back next week, lace up the cleats, strap on the pads and go lay the smack down!

D1 FOOTBALL IS WATCHING YOU!