Showing posts with label football. Show all posts
Showing posts with label football. Show all posts

KING 5 Big Game of the Week

Tuesday, September 24, 2019

Follow the link to vote
Shoreline Rotary reports that the Rotary Cup game this Friday - Shorewood vs Shorecrest - is leading in the voting to be the Big Game of the Week with a feature on KING 5 TV.

However, the Auburn Riverside vs Federal Way game is hot on our heels 33% to our 34%.

To vote, follow this link



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Football: Scots Ground The Gulls

Monday, September 23, 2019

Friday, September 20, Everett Memorial Stadium
Shorecrest Scots 35 - Everett Seagulls 7


#34 Marcus Tidwell
AnneJack Photography
After a loss last week that in all probability shouldn’t have been, a team can only hope to brush it off, regroup, work hard and the next week, come out swinging. That is exactly what the Shorecrest Scots did this past Friday Night in Everett against the winless Seagulls. 

Making his first start on Varsity, Senior Andrew Pellham did a commendable job at Right Guard helping the rest of the Scots Offensive Line open holes for tandem Tailbacks Gabriel Nelson and Marcus Tidwell. Tidwell, whom Coach Brandon Christensen has dubbed the “Swiss Army Knife”, had no trouble running over would-be tacklers on his way to his first touchdown of the season. With a total of 15 carries for 109 yards, Tidwell galloped for an additional 40 more on 3 pass completions.

Nelson, considered more of a finesse runner and the faster of the two, also scored his first touchdown of the year and if unchecked will soon take one to the house on an end sweep. If the power and determination both backs exhibited Friday night is any indication, the Scots should have no problem continuing to establish their running game against any and all upcoming opponents.

Scots Quarterback Eladio Fountain again showcased his talent throwing the ball 17 times for 11 completions racking up 173 total yards in the air. He also had one of his best games on the ground scoring his 4th rushing touchdown this season.

Coming back from an injury that had him sidelined for most of last year, Senior Jacob Cruz appears to be only a game or two away from making some very big plays on both offense and defense.

Holding the Seagulls to only 7 points all night, the Scots Defense looked great from the start. Only giving up 29 yards through the air and 111 yards on the ground, the Seagulls' sole touchdown and half of their total yardage came against the less experienced, but none-the-less hungry 2nd and 3rd string Scots defenders. 

#13 Gabriel Nelson
AnneJack Photography
Starting for an injured Des Fox, Savion Lucero picked off two of the Seagulls passes and Zane Morga-Baisac added a third. A fourth was nearly intercepted by Robbie Oxford, but too low of a throw to accurately control. Junior Mo Dean, who was also thrust into a starting Cornerback position after the injury to Amadane Aboudou, broke up several long pass attempts and will undoubtedly continue to contribute both in defensive coverage and on special teams.

Linebacker James Huffman, who of all the Scots Seniors appears destined for a college scholarship, continues to lead the Defense making play after play. Huffman and fellow Seniors Mathew Potter and Derek Williams make up for their lack of size with quickness and physicality.

With a substantial lead Coach Christensen again had the luxury of resting some of his starters and the depth the team appears to possess continues to be impressive.

Sophomore Beau Ormsby came up big with several defensive stops at Middle Linebacker and Wyatt Patenaude again showed that spending the summer in the weight room can be beneficial for a Defensive Lineman. Also getting his first taste of Varsity action this season was Junior Tackle Porter Schmidt who is playing his very first year of organized football and loving every minute.

Sophomore Ben Seather-Brady excited the crowd by carrying the ball, tacking on an additional 6 points for the Scots and could very well be the heir apparent to the ball-carrying throne at Shorecrest.

Tied for second with Lynnwood at 1 and 1 in league play, the Scots will need to focus on reducing unnecessary penalties as they begin preparing for next week’s Rotary Cup against Shorewood. The 0 and 2 Thunderbirds hope to again shock the Scots as they did last year at Shoreline Stadium.

Although a 35 – 7 win against Everett is most impressive, a Rotary Cup win is one both teams look forward to each year and Shorecrest will need to bring their “A game” in order to stifle a Thunderbird team looking to bounce back from a 56 – 10 loss to Snohomish.

The Rotary Cup is the areas biggest matchup and fans of both teams can vote to have it featured as KING 5’s game of the week by clicking on the link.

Fans are allowed 1 vote per day, per electronic device or browser.

--Rob Oxford



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Will the Rotary Cup be the KING 5 Big Game of the Week?

Sunday, September 22, 2019

Schools Supt. Miner
at her first Rotary Cup
Photo by Wayne Pridemore
The annual Rotary Cup football game is this Friday, September 27, 2019 at Shoreline Stadium 18560 1st Ave NE.

It features cross-town rivals Shorecrest vs Shorewood and a Shoreline Schools Superintendent who supports all the students.

For years, local fans have made a point of voting this game in as KING TV 5's Game of the Week. Will they do it again this year?

Voting is here - and is open until Thursday at 1pm.






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Shorecrest Football: Wiped Out During White Out

Sunday, September 15, 2019

Marcus Tidwell barrels into the end zone

Shorecrest Scots football vs Edmonds-Woodway 
Friday, September 13, 2019 
Edmonds-Woodway 38 - Shorecrest 14

Text and Photos by Rob Oxford

If the Shorecrest Scots had visions of cruising through the WesCo South on their way to a 3A Championship this season, Friday night's surprising 2nd half beat-down by the Edmonds-Woodway Warriors hopefully put things into perspective.

The Warriors, who scored 38 unanswered points after trailing at the half 14 - 0 were in no way the better team leading up to kickoff, yet they were the ones celebrating after the final buzzer and rightfully so.

Designated as this season’s “White Out” game, which encourages fans to dress in white as a show of solidarity, the Scots had been expected to be 2 and 0 at the end of the contest and coming into Shoreline Stadium the Warriors had to have felt inferior.

Scots Offensive Guard Jacob Halvorson in pass protection

I imagine they, too were privy to the preseason hype identifying Shorecrest as “the team to beat”. Regardless, Highlander fans, at least those who didn’t leave at halftime thinking they had seen all they needed to see, would make the short drive home scratching their heads and wondering “what just happened?”

A narrow victory against Marysville-Getchell the week prior should have been a wakeup call for the Scots. Unfortunately, a lot of the same mistakes were made on the offensive side of the ball. False starts, holding and procedure penalties, fumbles, dropped and under-thrown passes all led to stalled drives and turnovers.

If there was one shining moment, it would have to be the touchdown scored by Junior Running Back Marcus Tidwell, his first on the season. At 5’11 205 lbs. Tidwell appears to enjoy going through would-be tacklers instead of around them.

An additional highlight could be the play of Senior Gannon Dow. The 5’11 WR was called on to replace Eladio Fountain after the Quarterback left the game with a minor injury. Dow was able to scramble for positive yardage, however there seem to be some miscommunication with his receivers on a couple of passing plays.

The Scots Defense, on the other hand, couldn’t have played much better. Although a few instances of poor open-field tackling extended what should have been several 3 and outs, for most of the night the Warriors were unable to move the ball on the ground effectively. Three of the Warrior touchdowns were scored while the Defense was still on the sideline. 

A Punt return, a pick 6 and a fumble return for a touchdown would have been more than enough to secure a Warrior victory, but football is as much a mental game as it is physical and once a deficit seems unsurmountable, it’s difficult to convince young men that a chance to come back still exists.

During the 2nd half several Scots' players were sidelined with various injuries and those that weren’t had been playing both sides of the ball for most of the night. Conditioning is what makes a “4th Quarter Team” and the Scots are simply not there yet.

In trying to focus on something positive to be gained from the night's disappointing loss, one can take solace in the fact that due to the injuries indicated above, Head Coach Brandon Christensen was forced to play many of his second-stringers and from where this reporter was sitting, the Scots seem to have much more depth than one might initially assume.

In his first taste of varsity action, Junior Defensive Linemen Wyatt Patenaude came up with a couple big tackles as did Max Takhtarev, who for the second time this season made a significant impact on defense.

Win or Lose - A proud Shorecrest Grandfather

For those Scots who see limited playing time, but contribute each practice by filling in on “scout teams,” the call came Friday Night and it was exciting to finally hear some of those names called by stadium announcer Wyatt Tonkin.

One such player is Kingston Lam. At 5’9 157 lbs., he’s not your prototypical linebacker, but when it comes to heart, you’ll find none bigger in the Shorecrest Locker Room.

Several Sophomores also found themselves filling significant roles late in the 4th Quarter. #22 Daryl Scot filled in for injured RB Markus Selzler and moved the ball downfield rather easily. While #28 Ben Seather-Brady did a commendable job returning kickoffs, replacing Des Fox who had also been banged up earlier in the 2nd half.

Although the outcome of Friday Night’s Home Opener was not what most in the audience had anticipated, the season has just started and quite often a 38 – 14 loss such as this is exactly what a good doctor might prescribe.

Next week the Scots travel to Everett for an 8pm start against the Seagulls and you can rest assured the Highlander Coaching Staff will be doing everything within their power to prepare the Scots for victory.



 

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Shorecrest Scots vs. Marysville/Getchell Friday Night: Big Otis Is Back

Monday, September 9, 2019

Def. Coordinator Coach Petschl instructing the Scots D

Text and photos by Rob Oxford

(Official game statistics not available at press time)

Friday Night Lights are back on and the season opener for the Shorecrest Scots started off in the manner which early analysts had anticipated. 

After winning the coin toss, the Marysville/Getchell Chargers deferred to the 2nd half, and the Scots quickly began to work their magic.

In the first series of the game, protected on his blindside by 6’6 320 lb. Right Tackle Abi Sidhu, Senior QB Eladio Fountain connected on a 62-yard pass to Des Fox. Fountain then scored the first points of the game, sneaking the ball into the end zone from about the 1-foot line. Sure-footed Gavin Dalziel aced the PAT and the Scots had the early 7 – 0 lead. A lead they wouldn’t relinquish the entire game, but one that needed some outstanding defensive play to protect.

#19 Eladio Fountain looks to connect downfield

Despite some powerful running by Junior RB Cheron Smith of Marysville/Getchell, the Scots Defense clamped down and the home team was forced to punt during their first possession.

The bulk of the evening’s ground game fell on the shoulders of Scots RB’s Marcus Tidwell and Gabe Nelson who at times showed moments of brilliance and picked up enough yardage to give the Scots control of most of the first half clock.

The 2nd score on the night was another 1-yard lunge by Fountain after the Chargers prevented both Tidwell and Nelson from breaking the plane on back-to-back carries.

The following possession by Marysville/Getchell would result in a turnover on downs after the Scots Defense held the Chargers from converting on a 4th and 1. A great defensive stand highlighted by Derrick Williams, James Huffman, Elijah Schultz and Matthew Potter.

After a couple costly procedure penalties, the Scots' next possession would result in a 32-yard punt, but pinning the Chargers deep in their own territory. Getchell Running Back Cheron Smith who received All-Wesco Honors last year, ran the ball tough, but the first half belonged to the Scots. The Defense forced another 4th down punt which was blocked and recovered at midfield.

The Scots apply some pressure

For the remaining 5 ½ minutes of the first half the Highlander Offense sputtered while their Defense continued to apply pressure. Corralled in the backfield by Derrick Williams and LB Robbie Oxford, Chargers QB Josiah Koellmer attempted an errant pass to no one in particular, resulting in a penalty for intentional grounding.

Unfortunately, The Scots squandered two more opportunities to add additional points to their 14 – 0 lead when a 30-yard pass was intercepted by Charger DB Garret Devereaux with 1:43 left in the 2nd quarter. However, after another 4 and out by Marysville, it appeared the Scots might have one last shot at a field goal, but a fumble by Carlos Torres prevented Shorecrest from getting close enough to give their star kicker, Gavin Dalziel, an opportunity to show off his incredible accuracy.

With the Scots in a “prevent defense,” Charger Head Coach Davis Lura attempted to run the ball a couple more times and both teams headed to the locker room with the Scots remaining on top 14 – 0.

The 2nd half would prove a bit more exciting for Charger fans. Their first possession of the 2nd half resulted in a 31 yd. touchdown, but the PAT was blocked by Shorecrest LB Jaxon Taylor. Starting for the first time on Varsity for the Scots, the Junior - who if he was listening - would hear his name called several more times over the public address system throughout the contest. As one of his team mates aptly mentioned in the locker room following the game, “this was a breakout game for #20.”

It was quite clear that this was the first game of the season for both teams. Fatigue, costly holding and false start penalties negated much of the momentum the Scots had developed during the first half, but for those players on the field who saw limited varsity action last season, it was a promising showing indeed. 

After an injury to Schultz, Sophomore L.J. Baxter filled in quite nicely. Amadane Aboudou did a fantastic job breaking up several pass plays deep in coverage and 2 way starters Jordan Glesener, Damarious Kellogg-Duncan and James Huffman not only opened holes but closed many as well. Even Senior Andrew Pellham (who chose to focus on baseball the past few years) saw some action Friday Night and along with Maksim Takhtarev, both took full advantage of their time on the field.

Marysville would add another touchdown on a 1 yd. run by Smith, but the Scots Defense again held their ground, preventing the Chargers from tying the game with an attempted 2 pt. conversion.

Junior Running Back Marcus Tidwell, who when healthy is as powerful a back as any in WesCo, had an exciting 70 yard scramble for a touchdown that was called back for a holding penalty and the Scots would have to rely on their first quarter points to seal the deal.

The final exclamation point came with only seconds on the clock when Safety Des Fox came up big with an interception, allowing the Scots Offense to take a knee and wind down the clock.

Call it jitters, nerves or lack of chemistry, the Scots were able to hold on to their 2 point lead to start the season off with a win on the road. The nucleus of a great team is certainly intact and although the Shorecrest Coaching Staff have much to work on before next Friday’s Home Opener against Edmonds/Woodway, if you’re a Scots fan, the preseason excitement surrounding this team seems legitimate.

Following their victory, in a show of appreciation the entire Highlander team made a point to shake hands and say thank you to those fans who made the long trip to Marysville’s Quil Ceda Stadium during rush hour on a Friday. A tradition this reporter would like to see continued.

Mark your calendars for September 27, 2019 this years Rotary Cup hosted by cross-town rivals Shorewood. After last season's upset, The Scots have a chip on their shoulder and will be looking to regain possession of the cup.

[Ed. Any Shorewood parents who would like to report on games?]




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Football: The Year of The Scot?

Saturday, August 31, 2019

2019 Scots


By Rob Oxford


With the end of summer comes another school year and for the many who enjoy it, another season of football. Whether you still have a player in high school as do I, prefer the college game over the pros or join a fantasy league each year to compete against friends and fellow employees, another season is finally upon us.

This year, in his tenth as Shorecrest High School, Head Coach Brandon Christensen and the supporters of Highlander Football appear to have a team they can truly be excited about.

With many schools in their league having graduated standout players, the Scots, who are returning 7 Offensive and 8 Defensive starters, are no longer a “young team”. Led by 4-year starting QB Eladio Fountain, if nothing else, the Scots have experience.

In his junior year at Left Tackle Jordan Glesener will be opening holes for Markus Selzler, Marcus Tidwell and Gabe Nelson while pass protection will fall on the shoulders of interior lineman Jacob Halvorson, D’Marius Kellogg-Duncan, Abi Sidhu and James Huffman.

Huffman, who has been working hard during the off-season and is much faster and stronger than he was a year ago, will also be bringing the pressure on defense at Middle Linebacker. Other offensive weapons include talented receivers Gannon Dow, Derrick Williams and Carlos Torres.

On Defense, the Scots look forward to the healthy return of Senior Jacob Cruz at Defensive Back and Des Fox who is an equally effective pass-catcher on offense. Also looking to make an impact defensively again this year is Senior linebacker Mathew Potter and juniors Robbie Oxford and Jaxon Taylor.

Should it come down to extra points or a field goal win in overtime, the Highlanders have one of the best kickers around in Gavin Dalziel. Gavin has spent much of the last year under the tutelage of Husky Hall of Famer Jeff Jaeger.

The first game on their schedule is this coming Friday September 6, 2019 when they travel north to take on Marysville-Getchell. 

To this writer, equally exciting as those returning for what will be their final year on a high school football team, are the seniors who have decided to strap on the pads for the very first time. Some have been standout baseball players and track athletes; others may just want to experience the brotherhood of being a “Gridiron” Highlander. Regardless, they have been welcomed with open arms and each in their own way have something to contribute to what could be a very successful year for Shorecrest.

There are no new clichĂ©s when it comes to this game. “Winners Never Quit and Quitters Never Win,” “Football is Family,” “You have to leave it all out on the field,” - fortunately all of these are true. Whether it has been your life or it is your first time experiencing the game, football done right will bring out the best in all who participate.

I make no excuses for being a football fanatic. Yes, there are issues in professional sports that need to be addressed. Yes, college athletes should probably be paid for generating millions of dollars in revenue for their prospective schools, but we’re not there yet. These are student athletes. These are young men and in the case of one young player at Shorewood High School, women, who are learning about accountability. They are learning about commitment, dedication, responsibility and a whole host of other positive attributes to be gained from being involved in a team sport.

So, whether you are a Thunderbird or a Scot for the next few months, the place to be on a Friday Night at 7pm is Shoreline Stadium.



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Myles Gaskin football camp for K-8 - Saturday June 29

Tuesday, June 25, 2019


Myles Gaskin Football Camp June 29, 2019, 11am - 2pm for grades K-8
Shoreline Stadium 18560 1st Ave NE, Shoreline 98155

Register online - camp is free



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Rob Oxford: Once A Bulldog

Saturday, April 6, 2019

Richmond Bulldog
By Rob Oxford

In November of 2017, as an assistant football coach for Kellogg Middle School, I wrote my first article for the Shoreline Area News.

It initially began as a Facebook post encouraging young players on my team who weren’t getting much playing time to “stick with it”. I insisted that with hard work and dedication, “their time would come.” 

At the suggestion of my good friend Frank Workman former “Voice of The Scots” and a longtime contributor to this online paper, I submitted my writings to our editor and a dream I didn’t even know existed became a reality.

That same year, a little boy who had begun playing Richmond Junior Football several years earlier, most likely at the behest of his father, was named Most Improved Player of his high school football team. He was also awarded WesCo 3A Honorable Mention at Left Offensive Tackle. That little boy was my son Taylor.

I mention Taylor’s accomplishments not to boast, but to emphasize what participating in a youth football program (or any youth sport) can do for a child’s confidence. 

I still don’t know if my son actually wanted to play football or if he signed up to be a Bulldog because his Dad wanted him to and some of his fellow classmates had, but regardless, his participation gained him lifelong friends, enormous self-respect, the determination to maintain a passing grade, and the confidence to achieve any goal he set for himself.

As a former coach and the current Promotions and Marketing Director for Richmond Junior Football, I’ve witnessed firsthand the benefits of participating in a team sport. For some children it’s baseball or basketball, some play soccer, some swim or take gymnastics.

Others find they prefer bowling, golf, tennis or lacrosse and still others, like your National Champion Shorecrest Highlander Hip Hop Team, enjoy dance. All of these are physical activities that promote healthy living and encourage responsibility and independence.

Registration for Richmond Junior Football is once again open and in an effort to improve on the legacy built by the likes of the Weber Family and “Uncle Pete” (Lucien) Legault, Richmond Junior Football is embarking on a new partnership with Ford Sports Performance... one that will add a new dimension to youth football in the Shoreline community.

Ford Sports Performance (FSP) is a results driven facility that specializes in training for athletes of all levels as well as adults who just want to stay in shape. The #1 Sport Performance Facility in the United States, FSP is responsible for keeping the likes of Seahawk Bobby Wagner and several of his teammates in prime physical condition.

Former Bulldog Myles Gaskin
Former Richmond Bulldog and UW Husky Myles Gaskin, projected to be a 4th or 5th round pick in this year’s NFL Draft, can be seen regularly at FSP working on improving his speed and agility. 

Owner Tracy Ford, also a former Richmond Bulldog and professional athlete with the CFL’s Toronto Argonauts, started training some of the NFL’s top players four years ago by using cones and speed ladders he kept in the trunk of his car. 

His desire to help his friends, who have now become clients, stay in the best shape of their lives has turned into a full time business. Now located in a state of the art 10k square ft. facility with only the finest in professional equipment, FSP is focused on keeping their athletes ahead of the curve by also providing tutoring for those student athletes who require additional academic support.

Richmond President Clyde Travis
and FSP CEO Tracy Ford
During this past off season, Richmond President Clyde Travis was busy planning the next phase in Junior Football for Shoreline residents.

This one of a kind partnership with FSP is just a sample of the many new and exciting things to come, including the first ever Myles Gaskin Football Camp.

Register for Richmond Junior Football before June 22nd and athletes will receive a 6-week training session (one day per week) at Ford Sports Performance.

This new venture is sure to excite and invigorate these young athletes as well as introduce them to a whole new level of commitment.

Registration is now open. Go to the website for information on all of the exciting new developments and to sign up for a brand-new season of junior football.



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Rob Oxford: Turn out the lights, the party's over

Tuesday, November 6, 2018

The Wolverines move the ball downfield
Photo by Rob Oxford
By Rob Oxford

The Shorecrest Scots 2018 Football Season came to an end Saturday Night with a 34 - 7 loss to 2nd ranked Bellevue and as a fan and Father of a Scot, I found it surprisingly easy to leave the stadium with my head held high.

It would be unfair to assume that anyone outside of Shoreline expected the Scots to be victorious, but this was a playoff game, their first in over a decade and one must always believe. It is crucial to have faith. To not only believe in oneself, but also ones coaches and fellow teammates.

Football is a game played by human beings. At any given time, players on both teams are capable of making mistakes. Referees make bad calls. The weather can be a factor and the ball bounces funny. All of these are reasons to play the game and sometimes... the "Underdog" does win.

The stats for this particular game aren't necessarily worth mentioning. Fans of the Wolverines are used to seeing them bulldoze their way downfield and fans of the Scots are familiar with how they battle each opponent. Tackles were made, blocks were thrown, passes dropped, penalties assessed, but a 101 yard interception by Sammy Seliga returned for a Highlander touchdown in his final game as a Scot, was certainly a much needed moral booster for the visitors and kept Shorecrest from being shut out.

No one needs reminding that Bellevue has faced controversy in the past for suspected program violations, including boosters being accused of paying for athletes’ tuitions, false addresses being used to gain eligibility and coaches recruiting athletes into the program.

No one needs to be reminded that the Wolverine Lineman are big, much bigger than many of their opponents. But whether one wants to admit it or not, football, and in this case high school football, is a business and for Bellevue, business has been good for many, many years.

Bellevue's assistant coach in charge of waving the white noodle
Photo by Rob Oxford


But this article is not meant to be overly critical of The Wolverine Football program. In fact there were many things I witnessed Saturday night that I admired. Some things that reminded me of my days playing football in Texas and then again, some that did not. In particular, the coach whose sole job seemed to be swinging a long white noodle over his head the entire night? I thought I knew most of the coaching positions, that one must be new.

However, I admired the involvement of those underclassmen/players who would otherwise not be seeing any action, standing together on the sideline encouraging their teammates while simultaneously doing their best to distract their opponent with a myriad of chants and cheers. At first it may have seemed annoying, but it kept them engaged. As members of the team they too were given a job to do and all night long they did it quite well.

Also significant was the precision with which the Bellevue Offense "broke the huddle" and almost sprinted to the line before each snap, that too was impressive. The almost choreographed moves of the Linemen as they got down into their 3 point stance in unison. The second effort given by the Bellevue Running Backs after initial contact was a thing of beauty and garnered them several additional yards on many of their carries.

Bellevue's Spirit Bell
Photo by Rob Oxford


Finally, after shaking hands with their opponent, the Wolverines lined up on the sideline facing the home crowd and with helmets off, swayed back and forth as the school song was played. A true sign of appreciation for all in attendance. That is discipline. That is tradition. As is the Spirit Bell which hangs above the stairs leading to the field.

The Scots' traditional entrance to the field
with pipers playing the battle song
Copyright Anne Jack Photography


But Shorecrest too has its traditions, including one that nearly brings this reporter to tears each time it begins. The sound of the Scottish Piper leading his team into battle. The players paired together arm in arm as they make their way from the locker room, through the crowd, past the student body and onto the field. It is a magical moment and one I'll never tire of witnessing.

I was a little perplexed as to the relatively sparse turnout and why the covered seating at Bellevue Stadium is minimal to say the least. I was actually expecting something much more extravagant to be honest. Could it be that an undefeated team is so used to winning that few people bother coming to the games until they get deeper into the playoffs? Was it the weather? Does it not rain as much on the east side of Lake Washington as it does on the west side?

Regardless, the Bellevue Wolverines are advancing to the Tacoma Dome for a shot at another state championship and the Shorecrest Scots are not. However, as was conveyed to them the entire week before, the Scots earned an opportunity to compete with the "big boys" this past Saturday Night and despite a 27 point differential, they did indeed compete.

With that, for the Scots of 2019 there is much on which to build. For the Scots of 2018 there is much to appreciate.

Until next season...



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Lake Washington Kangeroos dash playoff hopes for Shorewood football

Sunday, November 4, 2018

Linebackers #31 Brandon Main, #22 Kaden Graves and #28 Dashawn Alexander wait for the snap
Photo by Lisa Hirohata


From a story in the Everett Hera
ld
There’s no taking away the many successes of the Shorewood football team’s 2018 season. 
The Thunderbirds finished second in the Wesco South after playing an independent schedule last year. They qualified for postseason play two years removed from consecutive winless seasons and opened the year winning five of their first six. 
But for all the great memories, Shorewood’s district playoff game likely won’t evoke many feel-good moments. 
The Thunderbirds were hoping to clinch a state tournament berth for the first time since 1990. Lake Washington played spoiler. 
The Kangaroos’ defense overwhelmed Shorewood’s offense, and the Thunderbirds suffered a 17-0 Week 10 playoff loss Friday at Shoreline Stadium.

#53 Tres Ziegler tries to block the PAT
Photo by Lisa Hirohata


More to the story here...


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Shorewood football plays for state playoff berth Friday at Shoreline Stadium

Thursday, November 1, 2018

The Drill Team never fails to please


By Aaron Bert
Photos by Lisa Hirohata

Shorewood High School will play the Lake Washington Kangaroos on Friday, November 2, 2018 with the winner advancing to the Washington state football tournament. The T-birds have not played for a potential state playoff berth since their 2002 season.

Lake Washington plays in the KingCo 2A/3A league and finished #2 (3-6 overall / 3-2 league). Lake Washington lost their first 6 games of the season, but won their last 3 in order to qualify for the #2 seed in the KingCo.

   October 26, 2018
Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
F
Arlington
15
12
7
7
41
Shorewood
0
0
17
0
17

Shorewood played their last WesCo 3A league game on October 26th at Shoreline Stadium. The final score was not what the Shorewood Thunderbirds had in mind at the beginning of their crossover game with the Arlington Eagles. Both teams came into the contest as the number two seeds from their respective divisions and the outcome would determine the opponents each would face in the week 10 winner to state game.

# 52 Tom Bert recovers a fumble.


Shorewood came into the game riding a two game losing streak, having dropped a close game to Edmonds-Woodway on October 12th, and then an extremely disappointing overtime loss to Marysville-Getchell 28-27 on October 19th. Shorewood needed a win to re-establish momentum and continue building on a successful season by any other measure so far.

Arlington had other things in store and completely dominated Shorewood from the opening kick-off. Shorewood was down some key players due to various reasons, but regardless, the Eagles were ready to play and it showed when they took 4 plays and 65 seconds to march down the field on their first drive and score a touchdown. It was a theme which would manifest itself through the rest of the game.

Save for a few moments of excitement in the 3rd quarter, when Shorewood was able to capitalize on two turnovers and put 17 points on the board - this was not the same team which had dominated opponents in the first half of the season and started with a 5-1 record.

#12 Spencer Osborne carries the ball


For Shorewood this next week could very well be the final chapter on a season which can be marked by two distinct tales. The first tale unfolded with excitement and an element of disbelief -- the team had coalesced -- it was playing complete football games and finding ways to win.

To be honest - no one was expecting the T-birds to sprint out to a 5-1 record, to include dominating wins over Meadowdale and Shorecrest. The team walked with a bit of swagger - the fan base was growing and the coaches seemed to be setting the right tone and getting maximum effort out of the players.

#21 Dashawn Alexander runs for a gain

Then the team stumbled against Edmonds-Woodway and Getchell and now Arlington, and the second tale is showing a team struggling to regain some of the magic from the first six weeks - to re-establish the winning ways and make a run into the state playoffs. The tale still needs an ending! Come see the excitement on Friday!

Some takeaways:
  • Junior WR/DB Spencer Osborne took the snaps at QB during the 1st quarter as starting QB David Snell sat out. Osborne stepped up to the job and was able to move the Shorewood offense;
  • Shorewood was missing the deep threat with Senior WR/DB Jaro Rouse not suiting up;
  • Shorewood gave up 4 sacks - the most of the season;
  • Shorewood started Sophomore OL/DL Tyson McGill at center, as starter Tres Zeigler played slot on offense. With Junior David Lopes at left guard, and Sophomore Tom Bert at right guard, the T-birds will have a solid core of offensive linemen to build around come next season;
  • Shorewoods linebacking corp played a solid game;
Next Game:

Friday, November 2nd - 7pm, Shoreline District Stadium
Shorewood T-Birds versus the Lake Washington Kangaroos.
Winner to state game.



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Find the silver lining in Shorecrest defeat at home on Senior Night

Monday, October 29, 2018

Senior Scots escorted onto the field by their parents
Photo by Rob Oxford

3A football 10-26-18
@ Shorecrest
Oak Harbor 62 - Shorecrest 27


Although still in the hunt, the Shorecrest Scots enter the next round of the State 3A Playoffs with the odds certainly stacked against them. Their next opponent will be perennial powerhouse Bellevue, ranked #2 in the state. Without question, a David vs. Goliath type scenario and hopefully one the Scots will embrace during the coming week of practice.

Friday Night the Oak Harbor Wildcats made the long drive to Shoreline Stadium and showed the few fans who made the trek with them why they are considered one of the top #10 teams in the state. Wasting no time, the Wildcats proceeded to put points on the scoreboard by driving their Wing T Offense downfield in "military fashion".

Showing the love for senior Gabe Reyes
Photo by Rob Oxford


Oak Harbor’s 21 unanswered first-quarter points set the tone for what would prove to be a difficult hill for the Scots to climb. None-the-less, during their final home game as high school football players, the Shorecrest Seniors came out and showed their ability and desire to compete on any stage.

With the score 25 - 13 at the half, Shorecrest were still within reach of a possible upset. Inevitably, at the start of the 3rd qtr., the task for the Scots Coaches would be to devise a scheme to prevent Oak Harbor from running the ball as efficiently as they had done so far.

Coaches often use such motivational catch phrases as "it's not the size of the dog in the fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog". Unfortunately, when an opposing Offensive Line averages 6' 3 and 250 lbs, sometimes it is the size of the dog.

Despite a respectable 11 - 19 and 159 yds. from Quarterback Eladio Fountain, Oak Harbor continued to rack up points on the backs of their three workhorses Aaron Martinez, Jake Mitten and Dorian Hardin who had three touchdowns rushing and another on a 91-yard kickoff return.

The world-famous Highlander Marching Band
Photo by Rob Oxford
 

During his final appearance at Shoreline Stadium, Antonio Stillwell hauled in 6 Rec. for 78 yds. and Sammy Seliga showed why he has been a joy to watch since his Freshman year.

If one were to find the silver lining in a 62 - 27 defeat at home on Senior Night, it just might be that the graduating Seniors of 2019 and 2020 managed to orchestrate a winning drive with only seconds left on the clock.

The future of Shorecrest Football certainly looks bright. However, as of this writing, the Shorecrest Highlanders of 2018 still have business to address.

The Shorecrest/Bellevue game is officially set for Saturday November 3rd, 7pm at Bellevue.

--Rob Oxford



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Shorecrest football prepares for playoffs

Sunday, October 21, 2018

(#53) Gabriel Reyes recovers a loose ball for Shorecrest


Friday, 10-19-18 3A Football
@ Lynnwood HS
Shorecrest 49  - Lynnwood 15

Friday Night's matchup between Shorecrest and Lynnwood just happened to be one of those games to which being casually late would prove unwise.

If you missed the first 15 seconds of the game, you missed a misdirection flea-flicker from Royals QB Nate Killen to WR David Weitkamp that caught Shorecrest Sophomore Defensive Back Desmond Fox off guard (his only mistake all night) and turned into a 52 yard score... allowing the Royals to put 7 on the board before the concession stand had sold their first hot dog.

It didn't take long for the Scots Offense to even things up with a quick 6 yard pass from Eladio Fountain to Junior LB Derek Williams, lining up at Tight End for the first time this season.

Fortunately for the visitors, from then on it was all Shorecrest.

(#20) Sophomore Jaxon Taylor gets in on the action


On the following Lynnwood possession, Backup QB (in at Middle Linebacker) Dante Recabarren stripped the ball, recovered the fumble and Shorecrest was once again "knock, knock, knocking on" Lynnwood's door.

Opting to rely primarily on the run, which proved highly successful last week against Meadowdale, Scots Running Back Markus Selzler, who had an impressive night accumulating 121 yards on 14 carries, pounded his way into the end zone on a 16 yard sweep. Kicker Gavin Dalziel, who seems to get stronger with each passing week, then nailed the PAT to put Shorecrest in front for good 14 - 7.

The Defense applied heavy pressure all night and Selzler added another touchdown in the first quarter after intercepting his own deflection and rumbling 22 yards to the Lynnwood 2. On the next play the Offensive Line led by Seniors David Rivera and Cole Duthie had no problem opening a hole for Selzler to stroll into the end zone.

In the second quarter, Senior WR Sammy Seliga hauled in a perfectly thrown pass from QB Eladio Fountain (4 of 5, 77 yds and 2 TD's) and scampered, or more descriptively, bolted 54 yards for a Shorecrest TD. Cyris Filoteo (72 yards on 16 carries), would then follow suit with a 1 yard run to cap the scoring before the halfway point at Shorecrest 35, Lynnwood 7.

To their credit the Lynnwood crowd didn't seem to let a four touchdown deficit dampen their Homecoming / Senior Night festivities during halftime as they celebrated both of those occasions and the tragic loss of teammates Ryan Truong and Sayon Savorn, both of whom passed away tragically over the summer.

(#56) Mohammed Al-Jabiri providing outstanding protection


As the Scots prepare to welcome Oak Harbor next Friday night October 26th in the week 9 Crossover Game at Shoreline Stadium, encroachment and false start penalties are something on which they'll need to focus more intently. Lynnwood will undoubtedly concentrate on some of the same things next year as well.

However, the Royals' inability to adequately protect QB Nate Killen from the defensive penetration of #56 Mohammed Al-Jabiri, #60 Leonard Askew, Selzler and #51 James Huffman, proved to be their downfall Friday night as many of their drives stalled due to penalties for "blocks in the back" and "holding".

(#34) Sophomore Marcus Tidwell looking for a block downfield


Allowing only seven points in the first three quarters, Shorecrest's defense seemed to be firing on all cylinders. Highlighting this impressive display was a blocked punt by Huffman (the team's first of the year) and a favorable bounce from the ball which allowed #51 to make it just 2 yards short of the end zone. A penalty on Lynnwood for "illegal substitution" (12 men in the huddle) would move the ball half the distance to the goal and the ensuing sweep right would give Cyris Filoteo, that's (Fil-a-tay-oh) for future stadium announcers, his second score of the night.

With a 41 point lead in the 4th quarter, Coach Christensen and the Scots' coaching staff had the luxury of making substitutions, allowing some of next year's potential starters a taste of varsity action.

Tacking on one final score and converting the extra point for an additional 2, Lynnwood ended their season winless while Shorecrest advances to the playoffs at 5 - 3, 4 -2 in league play.

--Story and photos by Rob Oxford



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Do you bleed crimson and gray?

Photo courtesy WSDOT
A Crimson and Gray wave headed to Pullman Friday night and Saturday morning as ESPN did their Gameday broadcast from Washington State University.

For those of you who don't bleed crimson and gray, Saturday's broadcast was the culmination of a 15-year campaign – 15 years! – to bring the popular football preview show to Pullman.

As part of those efforts, a traveling WSU flag named Ol' Crimson has appeared at 216 consecutive Gameday broadcasts across the country.

The flag is express mailed to each week's location by a band of Coug alumni and boosters who chronicled the efforts on Facebook and Twitter. This Wave the Flag movement has become an intense source of pride for Coug fans.

So, as soon as ESPN finally made Coug dreams come true, WSU fans from all over began scrambling to get to Pullman. The stadium sold out and every hotel room on the Palouse was booked. (It didn't help that this weekend was also the nearby University of Idaho's Homecoming game).

The 4:30pm football game pitting No. 25 WSU against No. 12 Oregon fulfilled all Coug dreams as the team channeled 15 years of passion and plucked the Ducks with a huge 34-20 win.

Here's the CBS analysis.

Information in this story from WSDOT Communications



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Costly turnovers contribute to Shorewood coming up short in loss to Edmonds-Woodway

Monday, October 15, 2018

The Shorewood defense makes a goal line stand


Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 F
Shorewood 7 10 0 0 17
Edmonds-Woodway 7 0 6 7 20


Edmonds District Stadium, Friday, October 12, 2018, 5pm
Record as of Game Final:
Shorewood (5-2 overall / 4-2 WesCo South)
Edmonds-Woodway (2-5 overall / 2-3 WesCo South)

By Aaron Bert
Photos by Lisa Hirohata

Winning a football game is just not up to the players on the field - it also comes down to preparation from the coaching staff - and in the matchup between the visiting Shorewood Thunderbirds and the Edmonds-Woodway Warriors - the Warrior coaching staff definitely put in a bit of extra preparation in film study and learned you don’t kick the ball deep to the T-bird kick returners.

It was an early kick-off at Edmonds District Stadium and the T-birds were looking to snag another victory on the Warrior’s homecoming night. Senior Joseph Williamson was lined up deep for Shorewood, but Edmonds-Woodway surprised the Shorewood front 7 and botched the kick to the right sideline where it sailed over the heads of the T-bird receiving team and the Warrior kicker recovered the ball. Edmonds-Woodway snagged the initial momentum and started the game on the Shorewood 38.

Edmonds-Woodway is a one dimensional team, with nary a passing attack. They play old school smash mouth football, lining up their extremely capable running back, senior #2 Cappasio Cherry (5’9/185) behind #7 junior fullback Ben Grimes (5’10/180) and a decent sized offensive line and mainly run off tackle or toss sweeps to the outside. Cherry has proved a workhorse all season carrying the load for Edmonds-Woodway, to include putting up 329 yards rushing last week against WesCo South leading Snohomish, and he proved no different this week against the T-birds. Teams have been successful in stymining the Warrior run this season - but as he proved against Shorewood, give him a chance - and he will make you pay.

Edmonds opened up the scoring by going 38 yards on the ground for a quick touchdown at 9:50 mark in the 1st quarter behind Cherry. It appeared as if Shorewood was caught off guard by the brute running of Cherry and it was taking two to three players to bring him down.

Shorewood bounced back on their next possession, starting on their own 20 - senior QB #4 David Snell (6’3/175) connected with his favorite receiver senior WR/DB #2 Jaro Rouse for a 69 touchdown pass, as Rouse - who is absolutely explosive in the open field, easily outpaced the Warrior secondary and raced into the endzone to even the score at 7-7 with 7:25 remaining in the 1st.

#8 Kevin Hirohata recovers an EW fumble

Edmonds-Woodway took possession on their own 34 and then began to do what you can only do when you are a running team - they began to grind the ball out - steadily marching down the field. On this possession they ran 8 run plays in a row for 9 yards / 22 yards / 4 yards / 3 yards / -1 yards / 5 yards / 4 yards / 1 yard / taking the ball down to the Shorewood 15. The T-birds caught a break - as the Edmonds-Woodway quarterback dropped back for a pass, he was pressured by Shorewood LB #31 Brandon Main (6’2/190) who forced a fumble and it was recovered by senior LB #8 Kevin Hirohata (6’/200) at the Shorewood 20.

In response, Shorewood demonstrated their own prowess in the running game, putting together a 15 play, 76 yard drive to take the ball down to the Edmonds-Woodway 4 where senior RB #3 Robert ‘Take it to the Bank’ Banks (5’8/160) came up short on 3rd and goal and Shorewood was forced to kick a 20 yard field goal. On the drive Shorewood converted twice on 3rd and long, to include a 24 yard strike from Snell to Rouse to keep the drive alive. Shorewood took the lead 10-7 with 7:37 remaining in the 2nd.

Shorewood shut down Cherry on the next two possessions, forcing the Warriors to punt and with 1:05 remaining in the 2nd, Shorewood started at their own 16 and took the ball down field 74 yards behind four straight passes from Snell to take a 17-7 lead into halftime. Snell connected with Rouse for 36 yards, Main for 13, Williamson was stopped for no-gain, and then Snell hit Williamson for the 35 yard touchdown.

The second half opened with Shorewood bending but not breaking and forcing the Warriors to punt. Edmonds-Woodway opened with 3 straight runs and it looked like they were finding their footing in the running game, until the EW QB #11 junior Read Carr (5’11/175) found SW senior LB #22 Kaden Graves (6’3/225) in his face and threw him down for a 13 yard sack. EW was forced to punt and Shorewood regained the ball at their own 35 for their opening drive of the half.

#22 Kaden Graves and #52 Tom Bert make tackle with help from #10 Matthew Bangsberg


Facing a 3rd and 17 at their own 34, T-bird QB Snell was flushed out of the pocket and attempted to make something happen, but his pass flew over the head of the Shorewood receiver and was picked off at the EW 20. The Warriors answered by driving the length of the field and Cherry punched it in for the score from the 2 to bring the score to 17-13 as the PAT was no good. EW milked almost 6 minutes off the clock in their 13 play drive. The T-bird defense did not have an answer this drive to the Warrior rushing attack as they ran the ball 12 times, averaging 5.5 yards per carry.

EW forced the T-birds to punt on their next possession and then once again, played a very focused ball-control game, scoring the go-ahead touchdown after starting at their own 20. Burning another 6 minutes off the clock, the Warriors used a combination of deep hand-offs to Cherry and fullback traps to spring for gains of 6, 8, 16, 11, 11, 10, 11 and 2 yards. EW capped the scoring by connecting on a wide receiver screen from the 9 to go up 20-17.

As Shorewood regrouped on the sideline - 4:43 remained in the 4th and it was more than enough time to mount another scoring drive. Shorewood started the drive at their 35 and Snell connected with Rouse for an 8 yard gain. Banks took the inside hand-off and gained the first down with a 4 yard effort. Shorewood was on the move. A solid run was negated on the next play as one of the Shorewood hogs was called for holding, backing up the ball to the SW 40. 

Shorewood shot themselves in the foot the next play with an illegal procedure call and then Snell was sacked dropping Shorewood into a 2nd and 26 at their own 31. With 2:55 remaining, Snell took the snap and sought to create some magic, looking to find one of his speedy receivers downfield, but EW had dropped 7 into coverage and the passing lanes were closed. Snell let the ball fly as he rolled to his right and it was picked off by the EW secondary. The comeback was over and Edmonds-Woodway ran out the clock.

#21 Dashawn Alexander runs back the kickoff


Game Final - Edmonds-Woodway 20 / Shorewood 17

Some takeaways:
  • Shorewood held EW running back Cherry to 58 yards in the first half
  • In the first half - Snell was 8/10 for 191 yards and 2 touchdowns
  • This is the 7th game in a row where the Shorewood defense forced a turnover
  • The loss is the 10th straight to Edmonds-Woodway, but was the smallest margin in the series history going back to 1996
  • Shorewood sits at the number 2 spot in the WesCo South behind division leading Snohomish
  • Shorewood plays Marysville-Getchell next week, but the game will not impact their standing in the South Division win or lose
  • Shorewood will play in the week 9 crossover game against a North Division opponent - since Shorewood will be playing the North Division #2 - it will determine the 3rd and 4th place seeding for the week 10 State 3A Playoffs
  • If Shorewood wins the week 9 crossover game - they will play the Pierce County League #3 finisher on November 2nd or 3rd
  • If Shorewood loses the week 9 crossover game - they will play the KINGCO League #2 finisher on November 2nd or 3rd
  • At 4 league wins to date - Shorewood has more league wins in the WesCo than they did between 2013-2017
  • Season success is still on the horizon with 3 games remaining, Shorewood can still match their best season ever at 8-2 from 1977 if they win out
Next game -

Friday, October 19, 2018 - 7pm, Shoreline District Stadium - Shorewood Homecoming
Shorewood 5-2 vs. Marysville-Getchell 2-5



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