OXFORD, OHIO– “We’re very hungry to win and actually succeed in things after a season where we went 1-9,” Kasey T., sophomore wide receiver, said. He speaks for his team to explain how Talawanda High School football is ready to take on the 2018 season.
Starting junior quarterback Adam C. was injured earlier in the season and with a surgery pending, he’s out for the rest of the football season. Filling his position is sophomore Tyler T., who is making a big jump from JV last year to now suddenly starting in what is considered one of the most important positions on the team. Tyler said, “It really sucks the way it happened, because I’ve been friends with Adam since I was little, and it really sucks to have his season taken away, but you’ve just gotta make the most of the opportunity.”
Despite the large shoes to fill, Tyler is coming out strong, bringing in his first varsity win on Friday, Sept. 7. Tyler is on his eighth year playing football in the quarterback position, and is feeling confident in himself and his team. Head Coach J.D. Vonderheid said, “Tyler has done a tremendous job stepping into the starting Quarterback role.” Vonderheid also noted: “Tyler has worked really hard and prepared himself for this opportunity and has performed well. Friday night against Eaton he managed the offense well and made some really big plays when the team needed him to. We are expecting Tyler to continue to improve each week and help lead our football team a lot more wins throughout the season.”
Coach Andy Zimmerman cites Tyler to be a “true competitor” and fellow sophomore teammate Kasey T. said, “he’s a mobile and hardworking player.” Kasey also noted that Tyler is friends with everyone on the team: “He knows how to talk to everyone and encourage them.” Teammates, coaches and students alike all feel a new energy in the air at Friday night games. The team is currently 2-1 so far this season, compared to last season ending 1-9 overall. The boys are hoping to make it to the playoffs and say that they owe it to the hard work they put in during preseason and at practices.
The team hosts Little Miami this Friday at Talawanda’s Homecoming Game. Kickoff is 7 p.m. and will be preceded by the crowning of the Homecoming King and Queen.
