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Senator
09-03-2005, 05:35 PM
And so when we last left our hero, he was recovering from the ravages of his injuries. Severe groin pull, Abdominal tear, Hairline fracture in his collar bone, and father time himself, pulling, prodding, and poking at a litany of aches and pains just to let him know that he was no longer young.

But injuries would heal if given time. And time was what he wished to give them. He had to prepare for his second to last semester of college. He had to prepare birthday parties for his two young daughters. He had to work long hours to save money to pay for this dream. He had to say goodbye to both his grandmother’s in the span of one month. He had many things to do to prepare for his last year in a football uniform.

And so almost ten months have past since he played on the team’s first conference championship in school history. What has transpired? What can we expect?

Well, for starters, he agreed to another year on the defensive line. Last season he bulked up to between 230-235 pounds and found out that, though he was quicker than the immense linemen in front of him, if they were ever to get a hold of him, he would not be very effective. So, the past 7 months we has worked out and reported in camp at 250 pounds, much to the happiness of the coaching staff.

He received his much coveted conference championship ring. (Picture provided on further date). His head coach was featured as one of the 80 hot coaches for 2005 in the August edition of American Football Monthly. The remarkable climb of Tabor College football from obscurity to respectability took the ultimate step last Friday at the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference annual media day at the Salina Country Club. The defending KCAC champions were picked by both coaches and media as the team to beat in the race for this season's crown-marking the first time in school history that the Bluejays are the preseason favorite. The Bluejays are pre-season #1 in the KCAC and #19 in the NAIA national preseason polls.

But like all the realities of life, not all is gold. Not only with the passing of both his grandmother’s within a month of each other in August and September. His youngest daughter is ready to attend pre-school. He and his wife agree that this is very important. But in Kansas, it cost 800 dollars a month. Attach the cost of daycare for the youngest daughter, and you have a situation where his wife’s salary alone will not provide the income needed to make it to March when he graduates. So, they made the toughest decision he and his wife have ever made. They moved the kids and the wife to her family in Arkansas, where pre-school is free, and her mother can watch the youngest for free, and his wife can work. This means that he will only see his family on weekends, and this has been very hard for him to accept. But, because this is only for four months, they decided it could be done.

And so, next Saturday, the new and for him, last season begins. Your humble correspondent will try to do as he did last season. Provide you with weekly updates and my amateur attempts at video highlights. Because of the outrageous fuel prices, it is unknown if I can attend the same number of games this year,

For those interested, I can answer whatever questions you have.

Izulde
09-03-2005, 09:41 PM
Glad to see you've decided to still update us. :) Maybe being away from his family will give him even more motivation to kick some tail, though from what I've read, he seems already motivated.

Senator
09-03-2005, 09:59 PM
The annual Saturday before the season starts scrimmage.
Email update from Clay:

"2 sacks & 1 tackle for loss on a screen play. We got a kid named Jenkins that will be an absolute stud this season at Wr...a legitimate 4.4 with great hands and feet. He juked Jake Shenk, and 2 other guys on his way to a 75 yard TD. Roger busted open a 80 yard TD run that was reminiscent of Emmit Smith, it was awesome, but against 2nd team. I'm on KO return right in front of the return men, I might get to return a squib this season. No pain in groin or shoulder, and it looks like all the hard work this summer rehabbing paid off. Only one injury on the team, a groin pull for a 3rd team CB. We would beat our last years team by 50 points, no lie. We have a legitimate 5 wide set with OUTSTANDING receivers, and 2 defensive line fronts that have no drop off in talent. It looks very promising."

Icy
09-03-2005, 10:04 PM
Good to hear back from him, i'll be following for sure.

Radii
09-03-2005, 10:40 PM
Its great to see this again this year, last year's was easily my favorite dynasty ever.

3ric
09-04-2005, 03:20 PM
It'd be interesting to see how much Tabor's improved from last years great run...

Senator
09-04-2005, 04:10 PM
Big question mark is the secondary once again it seems to me. God, what it must feel like to get to play one last time....

thealmighty
09-04-2005, 10:20 PM
Its great to see this again this year, last year's was easily my favorite dynasty ever.
Exactly. 'nuff said.

JeeberD
09-04-2005, 11:08 PM
Awesome, go Tabor!

stevew
09-04-2005, 11:13 PM
You all should try to "spec script" this story. It would translate great to a movie.

CraigSca
09-05-2005, 07:51 AM
Best dynasty read, by default. :)

Regarding the potential for a movie - this would make a great documentary as well. One of the guys who made "The Last Game" (which I highly recommend - it's one of those documentaries where you'd have a hard time believing it if it weren't true) used to be my neighbor and this would be right up their alley. Unfortunately, he moved to Australia. :(

Senator
09-05-2005, 09:56 AM
I made an 11 DVD set for each member of my family at Christmas from last years season. I had some custom work done on the box.
I had alot of good footage, but it was all done with my cheesy Sony DV camcorder. Ok for home movies, but it didn't really give it that feel it needs for a documentary. I wish someone would do one, it has had it's share of drama, and all considered, it has a ways to go. One thing I wanted to do was mic him up for at least one game while I was recording. I bought a wireless mic but, I am not sure I want to mess with it.

Senator
09-06-2005, 06:32 PM
And in the latest news....

He will be wearing lucky #13

They play KWU and the QB is a transfer from Iowa. Should be a good game. I leave out Friday afternoon for my weekly long drives.

flere-imsaho
09-06-2005, 08:16 PM
I'm so glad to hear this is back for another year!

Buzzbee
09-06-2005, 08:54 PM
Weekly tasks:

1) Read post game comments on Georgia Tech game.
2) Read post game comments on Falcons game.
3) Read post game comments on Tabor game. GO CLAY!!!!
4) Kiss wife, tell her I love her.

Senator
09-08-2005, 08:14 AM
For those with a Saturday night to kill - they have a Live Webcast and live radio on the website at KSU.

Link - http://www.kwu.edu/athletics/football/

Senator
09-11-2005, 05:51 PM
32-13 Win.

Clay suffered an LCL sprain, but finished the game. Other than some soreness and swelling, he should be fine.

Buccaneer
09-11-2005, 06:11 PM
Weekly tasks:

1) Read post game comments on Georgia Tech game.
2) Read post game comments on Falcons game.
3) Read post game comments on Tabor game. GO CLAY!!!!
4) Kiss wife, tell her I love her.
1) Try to remember if Georgia Tech even has a football team.
2) Try as best as possible to avoid the message board diarrhea about the Falcons.
3) Definitely read post game comments on Tabor. GO CLAY!
4) Kiss wife, etc.

JeeberD
09-11-2005, 06:55 PM
32-13 Win.

Clay suffered an LCL sprain, but finished the game. Other than some soreness and swelling, he should be fine.

Excellent news. Will there be a more detailed report forthcoming?

Senator
09-11-2005, 07:32 PM
Excellent news. Will there be a more detailed report forthcoming?

Oh yeah, I just crawled in from the drive. The downside of going to his games is that the Texas/OSU game was being played at exactly the same time Saturday night. My brother in law was text messaging updates, but I missed it. And driving in all day today I miss all the NFL games. The high price of brotherhood.

Senator
09-12-2005, 08:47 PM
This game featured a four hour marathon of penalties. 17 for Tabor, and 11 for KWU. But despite this, the balanced offense of Tabor was enough to put the game away by the third period. A couple of touchdowns by newcomer starters TJ Jackson and Sage Hemmert were a real nice surprise. A kid named Jenkins just flew by the secondary, speed like Tabor has never had, but couldn't catch the passes in his hands. Hopefully, he will get it together because he has some real wheels.

Tabor looked pretty good in all areas, they should have a nice year if they keep it together. Clay's knee is bruised and he told me today he is not going to get an MRI, as it really does not hurt. Looks like he will play in Colorado this Saturday.

I put together a little video. I didn't video much so I apologize.

TABOR VS KWU 9-10-05 (http://www.cflfb.com/kwu.wmv)

flere-imsaho
09-13-2005, 08:17 AM
What position is Clay playing this year? DT, DE? Or does one just say "DL" and leave it at that because that's the nature of the game at this level?

Has the bulking up helped him at all with the opposing O-Linemen this year?

Senator
09-13-2005, 10:20 AM
He really is DT, though some defensive sets have him lined up at end and even falling back as a LB on passing down sometimes.

The jury is still out on whether bulking up will help. He made it through the line pretty quickly Saturday night, but I am wondering if the added weight had anything to do with his knee.

Buccaneer
09-13-2005, 06:24 PM
Brandon, I sincerely wish I could join you at the game this Saturday but my wife and I are going up to Denver for the day and then a Keith Urban concert at Red Rocks. We haven't done something like this in many years and she's really forward to it.

Senator
09-13-2005, 09:32 PM
Red Rocks is awesome, have a good time. There is still an outside chance I won't make the flight to Colorado because of work, anyway.

Senator
09-16-2005, 06:38 PM
Webcast (http://tabor.edu/athletics/stream/tcfootball.asf) versus Colorado College at 2pm CST.

Senator
09-17-2005, 05:44 PM
Victory - 66-30.

CC scored 2 back to back TD's against some 3rd and 4th teamers. Nice win.

2-0.

Buzzbee
09-19-2005, 08:44 AM
Thumbs up!! Hopefully this allowed Clay and some of the others to take it easy and keep a little fuel in the tank for later in the year.

Buzzbee
09-19-2005, 08:47 AM
Dola - Suggestion: Edit your first post to include a link to the most awesome Living the Dream thread from last year. Late comers shouldn't be cheated from experiencing the beginnings of this tremendous story.

Buzzbee
10-14-2005, 05:56 PM
Jonesin' for an update Senator. Hopefully you can bring us up to speed after the weekend.

Buzzbee
10-15-2005, 11:51 PM
Senator - No updates in a while - hope everything is ok. Just a short update - Tabor is 6-0 over all and 5-0 in conference...just a lil FYI Clay is now number 13, my son's old number from last year --- apparently Clay asked and my boy relented - at least that's my son's version --- Coach Gardner has the team playing well - no close games all have been pretty dominating performances by the team - some will say the Sterling game was close - but not in my opinion - I have only been able to go to 3 games this year, gas prices and work has really made it difficult for me -again i hope all is well
Trirol updated in the other thread. Copying here.

trirol
10-16-2005, 12:17 AM
Thanks for the re-direct Buzz...

PilotMan
10-19-2005, 08:42 PM
This is a very cool story. How did I miss it? Best of luck, he is giving hope to me, I can't imagine trying this at my age, especially with the kids and family. I know it must be hard for him. Give him my best regards.

Senator
10-30-2005, 05:51 PM
For those following this thread, I apologize for not keeping it updated and active. My own personal life has been a whirlwind the past 2 months. My job has had me scooting back and forth to Washington DC and burning the midnight oil.

The Tabor team is playing like they have never played. They are 8-0, just like last year, with two games remaining before the playoffs. The last two weeks have been sluggish victories, and one cannot but remember last year when they were 8-0 and lost in overtime to ruin the perfect regular season. No team has ever won 10 games in the KCAC, and history is right in front of them. This Saturday, they play Friends University, who won 50-27 Saturday, and will be on a mission to ruin the Tabor dream season. If they can win out the next 2 weeks, (they are currently ranked #8 in the NAIA, the first time in school history to be in the top 10) they will draw a team in the playoffs that they might actually compete with. That would be the greatest exclamation point to Clay's career.

As for Clay, he is doing well. His playing time has been cut in half, and he is in rotation, sometimes the starter, sometimes coming in every other series. His health is good, he has some nice stats, and he was named defensive player of the week in the game against Bethany. He misses his wife and kids horribly, but we are almost done, and he can go on to coaching and another chapter in his life. I know I should have been better at making this more of a dynasty and less a summary, but I hope now that you know events have intruded, you will forgive me. And so concludes my 2000th post.

Eaglesfan27
10-30-2005, 06:46 PM
I'm just glad with whatever updates you give us. Last year's thread and this thread are my favorite dynasties.

Senator
11-05-2005, 06:35 PM
With the 33-22 win over Friends today coupled with the 18-10 win by Sterling over Kansas Wesylen, Tabor goes 9-0 and wins their second KCAC Championship. Two years, two rings on a team that never had one in a hundred years. My brother is the luckiest person I ever met.

Fun with audio:

Sanders Family Shout Out (http://www.echoicewrestling.com/Sandersfamily.mp3)

KCAC BACK TO BACK CHAMPIONS (http://www.echoicewrestling.com/KCAC2005.mp3)

Emiliano
11-06-2005, 02:11 PM
I just finished to read this. What an amazing story.

Tell your brother that I really admire him; and also congratulations for the back-to-back conference championship!!!

JonInMiddleGA
11-06-2005, 02:14 PM
Three Woots! for Tabor.

So ... who wants to buy the book rights to this story? ;)

trirol
11-06-2005, 10:18 PM
Senator --- Just got back from the long drive - what a neat ride your bro and my son has been on - two young Texans in totally different spots in their lives, yet has this experience to share for the rest of their lives! - like you said TWO seasons Two Rings! I think my son might think the rest of his life would be this fruitful from here on out ... congrats TABOR

Senator
11-07-2005, 01:38 PM
trirol,

Congrats to your son. He has another 2 years to keep it going. My brother is quite ready I think at this point to say this itch to play has been satisfied, and now it will be off to the coaching ranks somewhere in Texas.

Still need to get a playoff win to make it perfect.

Senator
11-12-2005, 06:15 PM
Week #10 is upon us as Tabor tries for it's first undefeated season in school history. This week is the St. Mary Spires, who have not allowed a touchdown in 12 quarters - 3 games for you math wizards out there. True to form, Tabor wins it 43-8 and goes 10-0 and finishes #6 in the country. (naia country, that is).

What a great year. Clay and the rest of the seniors who are leaving wanted to go out strong. He told me before the game he was leaving nothing in the tank and he played, in my opinion his best game ever at Tabor. Below are a few audio highlights. Also, we wait for tonights release of who we will play in the playoffs. Looking forward to making up for last years drubbing from Sioux Falls.

AUDIO 1 (http://www.echoicewrestling.com/clay1.mp3)
AUDIO 2 (http://www.echoicewrestling.com/clay2.mp3)
AUDIO 3 (http://www.echoicewrestling.com/clay3.mp3)

3ric
11-13-2005, 05:58 AM
Man, if they could win the playoffs - what a storybook ending to Clay's playing days. Do they have a shot, or are they going in as underdogs?

Senator
11-13-2005, 10:26 AM
3ric, We are all waiting for the pairings. As you know, 16 teams makes it from the 114 teams in the NAIA and independents. They are ranked but for some reason, financial I have heard, the #1 team does not play #16, so that ranked #6 as we are, we have no idea who we play. Rumors are swirling that we will host a game, but not at Tabor stadium. The NAIA wants a bigger venue, so Tabor is supposed to host it 30 miles away at Cessna Stadium in Wichita, Kansas. The teams rumored to be matched with us are Evangel from Missouri, and the Heart of America Conference. They are 8-2, and a team I think we might match up with here. The other rumor is to play Azusa Pacific from California, and an independent. They are very, very good, and very dangerous. Last year they went all the way to the semi-finals in the playoffs, losing by a touchdown to the eventual national champs. They play the best division II schools and have lost 3 games but early in the season and to higher division schools. If we had to play them, I would not like our chances. These are all guesses, we willl know the matchups here in an hour and half.

Senator
11-13-2005, 01:22 PM
Pikeville College (Ky.) (7-2) at University of St. Francis (Ind.) (10-0), noon (Eastern)
Geneva College (Pa.) (8-3) at Georgetown College (Ky.) (8-2), 1:30 p.m. (Eastern)
University of Sioux Falls (S.D.) (9-1) at St. Xavier University (Ill.) (9-2), noon (Central)
Evangel University (Mo.) (8-2) at McKendree College (Ill.) (8-2), 1 p.m. (Central)
St. Ambrose University (Iowa) (8-2) at Morningside College (Iowa) (10-0), 1 p.m. (Central),
Dickinson State University (N.D.) (7-3) at Carroll College (Mont.) (10-0), 12:05 (Mountain)
Graceland University (Iowa) (9-2) at Tabor College (Kan.) (10-0), 1:30 p.m. (Central) (Cessna Stadium in Wichita, Kan.)
Montana Tech of the University of Montana (8-3) at Azusa Pacific University (Calif.) (6-3), 6 p.m. (Pacific)

Senator
11-13-2005, 01:25 PM
Well, we pulled Graceland. Despite being #6, I think we all agree that whomever we played, we would be in an underdog role. The conference Tabor is in has not won a playoff game in over a decade. What little I know of Graceland is that they have a great offense, run a 5 wide receiver set, and throw, throw, throw. Crap. Not the best of matchups. Maybe our front guys can pressure the QB. Clay and the gang are really going to have their hands full next Saturday.

JonInMiddleGA
11-13-2005, 01:39 PM
Dickinson State at Carroll College
Evangel College at McKendree
Sioux Falls at St. Xavier
Pikeville at St. Francis (Ind.)
Montana Tech at Azusa Pacific
St. Ambrose at Morningside
Graceland at Tabor College (at Wichita, KS)
Geneva at Georgetown

Lemme see here ... I know this isn't what they use for seeding but just for curiosity, naiafootball.net media poll would have this as
#17 @ #1
#11 @ #6
#4 @ #7
#12 @ #2
#10 @ #9
#13 @ #3
#14 @ #8
#16 @ #5

(media poll #15 Walsh didn't get an invite)
The real obvious oddity, based on the media poll at least, is sending Sioux Falls on the road in the first round. Is there a stadium issue there or just a big difference in how the media poll vs coaches poll ranks them, or ?

edit to add: After finishing this post I found what I believe is the coaches poll (http://naia.collegesports.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/111305aac.html) which I believe is involved in the invitation process.
It ranks them as:
1)Carroll (hosts #15 Dickinson)
2)St.Francis (hosts #13 Pikeville)
3)Morningside (hosts #14 St.Ambrose)
4)Sioux Falls
5)Georgetown (hosts #16 Geneva)
6)Tabor (hosts #12 Graceland)
7)St. Xavier (hosts #4 Sioux Falls)
8)McKendree (hosts #10 Evangel)
9)Azusa Pac. (hosts #11 Montana Tech)
10)Evangel
11)Montana Tech
12) Graceland
13)Pikeville
14)St.Ambrose
15)Dickinson State
16)Geneva

So, I see the difference that accounts for Geneva instead of Walsh, but Sioux Falls does appear to have gotten hosed a bit in the pairings. Looking them over, I suspect they use a sort of "kinda seeded, kinda regional" approach to the matchups?

And, just to add a little color & flavor to the thread, here's the pic that is on the page announcing the pairings :)

Ricky Ishida of Tabor College (Kan.) hopes to lead the Bluejays to the KCAC's first playoff win in more than a decade.
http://graphics.fansonly.com/photos/schools/naia/sports/m-footbl/auto_action/348474.jpeg

Senator
11-13-2005, 02:44 PM
I am guessing that Sioux Falls did not want to plunk down the 24K required to host a game. They are building a huge new stadium and facilities I heard, and I guess they thought they would take their chances on the road. If Tabor wins, I am pretty sure they would not pay for another hosting this year.

I have heard that Sioux Falls feels good about any team they would play in round 1. They are banking on winning round 1 and then paying for the hosting.

Clay is already at the field house watching film.

trirol
11-14-2005, 02:44 AM
another long drive! but well worth the hassle! Clay had a monster game! so at least one more game for Clay and the Jays this season, this time at Cessna Stadium against a Graceland team that supposedly has a SCARY passing game - has a 5-wide set that is lethal! Plano to Wichita is a shorter drive than to Hillsboro --- I know my bones welcome the shorter drive --- Go JAYS!

Senator
11-14-2005, 10:06 AM
A preview from someone in the other conference:

Graceland lost those two games because of turnovers.
Anytime you put your defense in bad situations, you're going to lose.

Secondly, Butler can't hold DeDe Dorsey or Demetric Phillips's jocks. Sorry dudes, but it's the truth.

Thirdly, (Is that a word?) anyway, Lindenwood, Evangel, MNU, Valley, William Jewell, Benedictine, and SOuthern Nazarene are all better football teams than any team Tabor has faced all season long. I think it's futile to compare what Tabor can do by looking at Lindenwood and Evangel. Evangel should be 11-0 and Lindenwood simply choked against Culver and Olivet Nazarene, otherwise they would be 10-1. Those two squad are clearly more talented than Evangel and better football teams.

HAAC schools have won 11 out of the last 12 matchups with KCAC schools. The last time a KCAC team beat a HAAC school was in 2002 when Kansas Wesleyan beat an 0-11 Graceland squad.

Doppelganger, it is absolutely futile to believe Tabor can establish any kind of running game or that they will shut down G-land's offense.
The only way Tabor wins this game is if Graceland pisses down their leg and turns the football over three or four times.

Other than that, this game is a mismatch.

You could make a great argument that Graceland's offense is actually more talented than Sioux Falls.

Their o-line is gigantic and talented with transfers from Missouri Southern and South Dakota. It's 6'4 300 across the board and it seriously looks and plays like D-II offensive line.
Clayton Braddock has passed for 2,500 yards with 25 TD's and 6 Int's, and he's been sacked all of 9 times.
Braddock was 1st Team All State in Texas 5A back in 2002 out of Grand Prairie, TX.
Wideout Anthony Ferguson has D-I ability and D-I speed. He's caught 65 balls for 1,046 yards and 14 TD's. He will be a mismatch for any DB of Tabor. GU's other receivers are big, fast, and more athletic than any wideouts in the KCAC.
GU's tight end is Eric Boatwright, a 6'5 255 lb. transfer from Boston College, where he played quarterback.
GU will also use their backup QB, Geary Davenport in the backfield, at QB, and at WR. Davenport can run and pass. He'll run the QB counter or the Speed Option out of the shotgun, and when he throws the football it's usually on a trick play.

Defensively, Graceland is very strong and quick. Just out of curiosity, when is 107 yards rushing per game considered a big amount? I do think a playoff team will run on the Jackets, and that will eventually lead to their downfall in the playoffs. However, Tabor will not run on them at all.
The best run defense in the KCAC is Ottawa. I know what kind of front seven they have, Graceland's D-Line and Linebackers are far superior to Ottawa's d-line.
Butler ran for 70 odd yards against OU, he will have less success against the Jackets.
GU's d-line with Ron Strozyk, a transfer from Eastern Washington, Dominique Randle El, Antwan's cousin at 6'1 300lbs, and Wayne Johnson a 6'5 260 lb. D-end will give Tabor's o-line their toughest matchup of the season.
GU's linebackers are fast and physical led by Nathan Bennett and Manny Espinoza. Their DB's will support the run extremely well and they're a lot bigger than your average KCAC DB.

I'm not trying to talk trash or rag on Tabor, but trust me, this is a bad matchup.

Gardner must put together his best gameplan ever. He also must force Graceland to turn the football over.

Key's for Tabor:

1. Force turnovers
2. Avoid the big play- GU goes for knockout punches, and home runs all of the time
3. Avoid an early deficit- this one goes hand in hand with #2
4. Use the playoff experience to your advantage- Tabor has been there twice, GU hasn't been there at all. That does give Tabor a slight advantage.
5. Avoid turnovers- Tabor has to finish atleast +4 to win this game.

Izulde
11-14-2005, 04:45 PM
It'd be damn incredible if Tabor could pull off the upset.

Senator
11-16-2005, 10:00 PM
Go this little text message from Clay around lunchtime - "Let's finish the game Doc, let's finish the game."
This is our "code" as our wives call it for getting pumped up for something big we have to do. It is from the horrible Young Guns movie, but we have always used it as a sort of shorthand to say, "I need to get this done!!". I am sure he is hyped up as he ever has been, now that we know that this might be his last game ever as a player.

Most people feel Tabor is about a 20 point underdog. That sounds about right to me. I was pretty close on the score last year, but this team is different. I think they have the heart to keep it close.

Buzzbee
11-17-2005, 01:49 PM
Good luck to Clay and the Tabor boyz!!

Senator
11-18-2005, 07:40 PM
The big game is tomorrow at 1:30CST. I will be driving out with the family around 5:30am tomorrow morning for Wichita, Kansas. If anyone wants to listen to the game, I will put the link below. Even if they win, this will probably be the last game I get to see him play. This has been lots of fun.

TABOR VS GRACELAND 1:30 PM CST - NAIA PLAYOFF GAME (http://www.tabor.edu/athletics/stream/tcfootball.asx)

JonInMiddleGA
11-19-2005, 04:23 PM
And the dream continues :)

(Tense as all get out listening to the final 20 minutes or so)

Senator
11-20-2005, 12:57 PM
17-14 victory!! Incredible.

It was a great game, and now Clay has had every dream realized. I am still in shock they won. Wow.

I got to meet trirol after the game, whose son plays for Tabor as well. He is a super nice guy, and it was great getting to meet him. I think we were both in a little shock we had won.

Next up, are you ready for this? Tabor travels to Sioux Falls all over again like last year to play. Tabor has made the Final Eight.

JonInMiddleGA
11-20-2005, 01:00 PM
OLATHE, Kan. - The pairings for the quarterfinal round of the 2005 NAIA Football Championships Series are listed below. Each round is paired after the completion of the previous round as no bracket is predetermined. Semifinal teams will be paired on Sunday, December 3. Quarterfinal games will be played on November 26.

Quarterfinal Pairings - Saturday, November 26: (listed in chronological order)
#5 Georgetown (10-2) at #2 St. Francis (11-0), noon (Eastern)
#6 Tabor (11-0) at #4 Sioux Falls (10-1), noon (Central)
#10 Evangel (9-2) at #3 Morningside (11-0), 1 p.m. (Central)
#11 Montana Tech (9-3) at #1 Carroll (11-0), 12:05 (Mountain)

JonInMiddleGA
11-20-2005, 01:04 PM
17-14 victory!! Incredible.

Absolutely as much fun as I've had following a game all year (I tuned in the radio broadcast about midway through the 3rd quarter) ... a real antacid chewer & I don't even know these guys, I can only begin to imagine how bad it was for the families. Heck, my wife was even yelling upstairs to get updates after I explained the scenario.

Great job by the Bluejays, just another installment on the best dynasty thread ever.

Emiliano
11-20-2005, 02:15 PM
17-14 victory!! Incredible.

It was a great game, and now Clay has had every dream realized. I am still in shock they won. Wow.

I got to meet trirol after the game, whose son plays for Tabor as well. He is a super nice guy, and it was great getting to meet him. I think we were both in a little shock we had won.

Next up, are you ready for this? Tabor travels to Sioux Falls all over again like last year to play. Tabor has made the Final Eight.

Woooo!!! Great to hear.

thealmighty
11-20-2005, 03:55 PM
wOOt!!!

I hate to be spoiled and selfish, but you wouldn't happen to have any video or audio, would you?

JeeberD
11-20-2005, 04:15 PM
Awesome, amazing, incredible! I wonder what the dude from Post #49 has to say now? :D

Senator
11-20-2005, 04:27 PM
Awesome, amazing, incredible! I wonder what the dude from Post #49 has to say now? :D


He says he called it. Tabor was +4 in turnovers, and he says that was the only way we win. Nice covering of yourself.

Senator
11-20-2005, 04:28 PM
wOOt!!!

I hate to be spoiled and selfish, but you wouldn't happen to have any video or audio, would you?


I actually have the audio. I scheduled to record it from my PC when I was in Kansas, so I have it on audio. The file is big, let me see what I can do.

Senator
11-21-2005, 12:18 AM
I just got back from the Paul McCartney concert. This has been a very cool two days. When you have some bad days to compare it to, when days like this come around, I think you really cherish them.

trirol
11-21-2005, 01:09 AM
As Senator posted what a win! My face was hurting from the cold and the stupid smile that I couldn't wipe off my face after the win - it was bitter sweet for my son - he would have loved the opportunity to be on the field with his teammates, but he did not make the 52 man play-off squad, he made last year's playoff squad - but it was the first time in a long time my son and I were in the stands watching a sporting event together - I dont know yet if I'm going up to Sioux Falls again...the driving has really been hard this year physically and financially - last year's plane tickets were an early X'mas gift my wife and I gave to ourselves - it'll be a difficult decision even if he is activated for the game...I do hope the Magic continues at least one more game, just to avenge last year's loss -

3ric
11-21-2005, 02:09 AM
Wo-hoo! Go Tabor!

Senator
11-23-2005, 02:05 PM
The game Saturday features the same three players from Sioux Falls that did the most damage to us last year. QB - Wright - RB Dvorka - WR Hovorka. Last year I said that the WR could have 200 yards and 4 tds against us. While he did his damage, the offensive line and RB was what tore us up with ease. I was hoping those three had graduated, but I find that they did not. Rats.

Sioux Falls is a very long trip - even on a plane... uggh.

In accordance with my brother and I long standing geek motivational techniques, I called his cell phone and left the screaming voice of the dad from Red Dawn screaming "AVENGE ME BOYS - AVENGE ME!!!!". No 72-11 this year. I say we give them a run for the money this year. But let us be honest. They are about twice as good as Graceland, and we only won by 3.

Senator
11-23-2005, 03:01 PM
http://us.i1.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/i/us/we/52/14.gif


AM Snow Showers

High: 28°
Low: 17

Senator
11-25-2005, 01:08 PM
Just got a call from Clay. They arrived by bus in Sioux Falls at midnight last night. They have been watching film all week, and they have a walk through today at 3pm CST.

He thinks the big difference between last year and this, is the offensive line they had is gone. He thinks they can stop the run, and the secondary had to defend quads against Graceland, and Sioux Falls runs a 2 receiver 1 tight end set. He thinks they can win, of course, and who am I to think they can't. I wish I was going.

Senator
11-26-2005, 11:07 AM
TABOR VS SIOUX FALLS - THE LAST GAME OR REVENGE SERVED (http://www.tabor.edu/athletics/stream/tcfootball.asx) Game Time 12:00 CST

Senator
11-26-2005, 01:46 PM
Sioux Falls 20 -5 at half.

Sioux Falls scored 14 points in the first 2 minutes of the game, and then Tabor stiffened and drove the ball, but missed 2 field goals. On a shuttlepass that was incomplete, they called it a Tabor fumble, and Sioux Falls scored - 20-3. On the extra point Tabor blocked it, and returned it for 2 points. 20-5 at half. Tabor needs to get in the endzone.

Senator
11-26-2005, 01:48 PM
DOLA:

I hate excuses. Don't believe in them. But, this official crew seems really bad. But, that is part of the game sometimes as well. You have to deal with it.

Senator
11-26-2005, 02:34 PM
40-13 now in the 4th. 5 turnovers for Tabor. Horvorka at WR just continues to amaze. 3TDS.

Senator
11-26-2005, 03:26 PM
Well, all things must come to an end, and so does this magnificent tale. I give my brother tremendous respect for living his dream, and he will be a better person for it. He gets to finish his education as well, and now go on and coach other young men with the things he learned from a successful program.

Thanks again this year for all the support, you guys are really great, with your own busy lives to show interest in this small story means alot to me.

Who knows, I might just toss aside the business world, and go coach with my brother at some little high school in west Texas. Who knows.

MIJB#19
11-26-2005, 07:44 PM
Rats, what a sad way to see it come to an end.

Icy
11-26-2005, 08:02 PM
Well, all things must come to an end, and so does this magnificent tale. I give my brother tremendous respect for living his dream, and he will be a better person for it. He gets to finish his education as well, and now go on and coach other young men with the things he learned from a successful program.

Thanks again this year for all the support, you guys are really great, with your own busy lives to show interest in this small story means alot to me.

Who knows, I might just toss aside the business world, and go coach with my brother at some little high school in west Texas. Who knows.
This has been the best dynasty i have read, even more knowing it's true not fictional about a game. Big congrats to your brother for what he has done.
Now i'm waiting for a future dynasty from your brother as coach, and as you said who knows, maybe you both together. You could also tell him to come to this thread and post at least once, we really admire him and his wife for being as supportive.

thealmighty
11-26-2005, 11:11 PM
Now that the season is over, tell Clay to sign up for an account on FOFC and give us a chapter autobiography of the last 2 years of his life...at his own pace, of course. (Better copyright it, though, or some Hollywood prick will make the movie before y'all do).

Thank you for sharing this story with us. Best ever on this board, as ICy stated.

Buzzbee
11-27-2005, 07:43 AM
*stands and applauds*

A note to Clay:

I've never met you. I've never even met your brother. Yet I am proud of you as if you were my brother. Stand tall and be proud of what you have done. Hold your chin high, but don't forget to lower it every once in a while to look around at those who held you up.

Yours is a great story, but don't let it end there. No matter what you do, tackle it with the same fervor, the same determination, and the same toughness. You have proven that you can do what you set your mind to so use that knowledge to push for even greater things. Congratulations to you, and wishes for all the best for you and your family.

A note to Brandon:

Thank you for sharing this story. I am better for having followed it.

3ric
11-27-2005, 09:47 AM
This story deserves to be published in book format.

Buccaneer
11-29-2005, 07:35 PM
This story deserves to be published in book format.
I think it might have to wait considering he still has this book and a book about Texas HS football on the way (is that still true?).

JonInMiddleGA
11-29-2005, 08:32 PM
I think it might have to wait considering he still has this book and a book about Texas HS football on the way (is that still true?).

It'd be worth the wait. This has definitely been a story that deserves a wider audience than a 'net forum.

My respect & congratulations to Clay for living the dream, as well as to his family & all those who helped make it possible. And my gratitude to Brandon for sharing it with us.

Senator
11-30-2005, 04:56 AM
It would be a good story, but I am not so sure Clay wants "just everybody" knowing about his wrong choices all along the way. It sure ended up being much more of a story than I ever thought it could be. When it started, all I was wondering was if he could make the team, not knowing he had attached himself onto something very special.

BYU 14
12-02-2005, 04:35 PM
This is a great Story Brandon.....And I agree with many others when I say this deserves a wider forum. Stories like your brothers are the truly good and inspirational tales that get far too little attention in this World.

Senator
12-02-2005, 04:40 PM
I talked to him last night, and who knows, I might put something together, if he wants to fill in the gaps for me.

Senator
12-03-2005, 02:25 PM
The Sioux Falls game against #1 Carroll is live on the internet - TV Style.

Lots of snow...

CSTV LIVE COVERAGE SIOUX FALLS VS CARROLL (http://www.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/cs-m-footbl-more-body.html)

Go just below the picture in the middle of the page where you see:

NAIA Semifinal: All-Access Free View LIVE NOW!

Senator
12-17-2005, 02:12 PM
Just to close this up. Here is the live coverage of the NAIA championship. You can either watch it live on CSTV or the free stream here:

#1 Carroll vs #2 St. Francis - NAIA NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP (http://www.cstv.com/ot/naia-mfb-121705-auth.html)

trirol
02-03-2006, 04:31 AM
Tabor head coach resigned ---
http://www.naiafootball.net/article.php?articleID=1384
http://www.malone.edu/5170

Icy
02-03-2006, 05:01 AM
Now is time for Clay to take that coaching job :)

Senator
02-03-2006, 01:11 PM
He has been interviewing the past month at several schools in Texas, and two NAIA colleges. One school here in Texas has really been after him, and I bet he ends up coaching there.

Eaglesfan27
02-03-2006, 01:31 PM
Well, all things must come to an end, and so does this magnificent tale. I give my brother tremendous respect for living his dream, and he will be a better person for it. He gets to finish his education as well, and now go on and coach other young men with the things he learned from a successful program.

Thanks again this year for all the support, you guys are really great, with your own busy lives to show interest in this small story means alot to me.

Who knows, I might just toss aside the business world, and go coach with my brother at some little high school in west Texas. Who knows.
I've been reading all along, but forgot to post after this. Really, we should be thanking you for sharing this amazing story.

Buccaneer
02-03-2006, 09:01 PM
He has been interviewing the past month at several schools in Texas, and two NAIA colleges. One school here in Texas has really been after him, and I bet he ends up coaching there.
Does that give you an idea?

trirol
02-04-2006, 12:06 PM
Senator - I was reading an article in the Dalas Morning News last month regarding Baylors new head coach --- and I see a bunch of similiraties with the colonel... i'll try to send you a copy if stumble upon it again

trirol
02-04-2006, 03:27 PM
make that Baylor's new Offensive Coordinator ---

http://baylorbears.collegesports.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/hays_lee00.html

trirol
02-04-2006, 03:33 PM
http://www.dallasnews.com/s/dws/spt/colleges/baylor/stories/121405dnspobaylorlede.11faef33.html

Senator
05-01-2006, 12:03 PM
Ben Brown, the starting fullback for Tabor College in the NAIA has signed as a FA with the Green Bay Packers. The first player since Bay Lawrence in the
70's to sign with an NFL team from Tabor.

Senator
05-01-2006, 03:18 PM
Ben Brown, the starting fullback for Tabor College in the NAIA has signed as a FA with the Green Bay Packers. The first player since Bay Lawrence in the
70's to sign with an NFL team from Tabor.


And also wanted to add, that my brother has been offered a coaching positon at a 3A school south of Houston. He is "probably" going to take it, but I shouldn't say where until it happens. He is really getting to do what he wanted to do in life, and it was all by taking a risk.

Izulde
05-01-2006, 03:31 PM
That's so awesome! I'm so happy for your brother. :)

Icy
05-02-2006, 09:26 AM
And also wanted to add, that my brother has been offered a coaching positon at a 3A school south of Houston. He is "probably" going to take it, but I shouldn't say where until it happens. He is really getting to do what he wanted to do in life, and it was all by taking a risk.

Good news, i really hope we can get a coaching dynasty soon :)

Senator
05-11-2006, 07:39 PM
I wanted to add some postscripts to this long dead thread.

Ben Brown, who is just a great guy, and who really deserves this shot, is getting some attention from the Packers.

http://www.packers.com/team/players/brown_ben/

And if you go to www.packers.com, I cannot believe I see at the very top a picutre of a guy from Tabor College. Unbelievable.

And we is the article.

http://packers.com/news/stories/2006/05/11/1/

Senator
07-29-2006, 05:22 PM
Clay is now the defensive lines coach for Brookshire Royal in district 24-3A. He has been there for a few weeks, and has his family moved in and settled.

Also, while he was at Tabor he made some extra cash playing country, and sure enough, someone liked him enough to get him a record deal and video shoot. Clay is a real trip.

Here is the video - CLICK HERE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CEpF5biD1xs)

JeeberD
08-02-2006, 08:22 AM
Congrats to Clay on the new job(s)!

Senator
03-04-2009, 05:32 PM
As Senator posted what a win! My face was hurting from the cold and the stupid smile that I couldn't wipe off my face after the win - it was bitter sweet for my son - he would have loved the opportunity to be on the field with his teammates, but he did not make the 52 man play-off squad, he made last year's playoff squad - but it was the first time in a long time my son and I were in the stands watching a sporting event together - I dont know yet if I'm going up to Sioux Falls again...the driving has really been hard this year physically and financially - last year's plane tickets were an early X'mas gift my wife and I gave to ourselves - it'll be a difficult decision even if he is activated for the game...I do hope the Magic continues at least one more game, just to avenge last year's loss -

I just found out that trirol's son - Marcus - was killed in a car accident driving back to Tabor from Dallas on I35. We are devastated, and our heart's go out to the Manny family.

http://www.legacy.com/DallasMorningNews/Obituaries.asp?Page=LifeStory&PersonID=124668381

Izulde
03-04-2009, 05:42 PM
:(

I was hoping for good news when I saw this thread bumped.

Icy
03-04-2009, 06:31 PM
Ouch, my sincere condolences, i also came here looking for good news :(

Senator
03-04-2009, 07:37 PM
Senator --- Just got back from the long drive - what a neat ride your bro and my son has been on - two young Texans in totally different spots in their lives, yet has this experience to share for the rest of their lives! - like you said TWO seasons Two Rings! I think my son might think the rest of his life would be this fruitful from here on out ... congrats TABOR

MAN, this is hard to read.

JonInMiddleGA
03-04-2009, 07:46 PM
Oh that's awful, prayers for the family & friends.

BYU 14
03-05-2009, 08:07 AM
Tragic news, prayers and condolences to the Family.

Senator
11-13-2010, 11:23 PM
My brother won the Texas Private School State Championship as assistant head coach and defensive coordinator of Kinkaid School in Houston.

Senator
10-27-2011, 09:18 PM
One year later - brother Clay is playing for his second consecutive private school State Championship, tomorrow night at Rice stadium.

He got some nice press yesterday:

Defense powers Kinkaid into SPC Championship Game

By Michael Sudhalter | Posted: Wednesday, October 26, 2011 12:00 am

The defending Southwest Preparatory Conference Division I champion Kinkaid football team is best known for its potent offense that’s averaging 54 points per game this season.

But it’s the Falcons defense that’s played an equally important role in the team’s 9-0, 5-0 record.

Kinkaid has allowed 13.7 points per game and only twice allowed more than two touchdowns this season.

And those numbers don’t do the Falcons justice. Many of the final scores are the result of the opponents scoring points in the fourth quarter long after the game has been decided.

“Everybody talks about those guys (on offense),” Kinkaid head football coach Stephen Hill said. “People don’t realize we’re the No. 1 defense in the state for private schools.”

Kinkaid will look to defend its conference title when it faces St. John’s (7-2, 5-0) at 7 p.m. Friday in the SPC Championship Game at Rice Stadium.

The Falcons are creating 4.5 turnovers per game, something that “makes a lot of difference,” according to Hill.

The defense’s success complements the Falcons’ offensive juggernaut.

“They give us the ball back so quickly and create good field position for us,” Hill said.

The Kinkaid defense is led by seniors Wells Johnson, Matt Ellis, Andrew Campbell and sophomore John David Johnson.

“We’re a really fast defense, which makes up for our lack of size,” Wells Johnson said. “We all pursue to the ball and stop the offense.”

The Falcons run multiple sets, and “that’s what makes us so good. (Teams) don’t know what to prepare for,” said Hill.

When Hill was hired in the spring of 2010, he hired Clayton Sanders as the team’s Associate Head Coach/Defensive Coordinator

“He’s phenomenal,” Hill said. “He’s got full reign over the defense.”

When Sanders started coaching, he was the co-defensive coordinator at Brookshire Royal, where Hill was the offensive coordinator.

They became best friends and told each other that whoever got a head coach position first would call the other person about joining their staff.

“(Hill’s) given me so much freedom to take the defense and mold it,” Sanders said. “He’s been a great leader.”

Sanders said the Kinkaid defense benefits from facing the offense every day in practice.

“I don’t think we’ll face an offense in our conference as good as our offense,” Sanders said. “(Our) are kids are very intelligent. They lock into every word you say. It’s great to give directions and the directions actually get carried out to perfection.”

BYU 14
10-27-2011, 10:17 PM
Congrats, go Kinkaid!!!

Senator
10-29-2011, 06:42 PM
Kinkaid defense powers Falcons to 28-7 SPC Championship win over St. John's

By Michael Sudhalter | Posted: Friday, October 28, 2011 9:17 pm

For much of this chilly evening at Rice Stadium, the usually-automatic Kinkaid football team's offense wasn't clicking.

And archrival St. John's was controlling the clock and winning the turnover battle, 2-to-0.

So, it was up for the Falcons' powerful, yet unheralded defense, to step up and lead Kinkaid (10-0, 6-0) to its second consecutive Southwest Preparatory Conference Division I Championship with a 28-7 victory over archrival, St. John's, on Friday night.

"I knew it was going to be a tough game, and I knew we'd struggle to move the ball a little bit," Kinkaid coach Stephen Hill said.

Kinkaid extended its winning streak over the Mavericks (7-3, 5-1) to four games, the first time they've accomplished that feat since a stretch from 1991-95, in which they won five in a row.

The Falcons scored 28 unanswered points after Mavericks senior running back Dan Tweardy scored on a 2-yard touchdown run in the first quarter.

Kinkaid senior quarterback Ford Childress, a West Virginia commit, scored two touchdowns (one passing and one rushing) to finish the season with 46 touchdowns.

Childress finished his career as 20-1 as a starter, which is also Hill's record with the program.

"(Winning a second straight SPC title) is so big -- it's a testament to our kids, their work ethic and determination," Hill said. "They showed up (this summer) bought in and this was their goal. This is something they'll never, ever forget."

Sam Eggleston scored on a three-yard touchdown run out of the Wildcat Formation, and Macan Wilson scored on a nine-yard touchdown run to extend the lead to 21 points.

Kinkaid now leads the overall series, 37-24. Friday marked the first time that the teams met in a conference championship game.

The 28 points were a season-low for the Falcons, who entered the game averaging 54 points per game. Their previous low was a 34 point effort in a 34-0 victory last month at Westbury Christian.

Alf
10-29-2011, 07:04 PM
yay!

JonInMiddleGA
10-30-2011, 03:15 AM
Love it, wtg Kinkaid.

MIJB#19
10-30-2011, 12:06 PM
That's great, Senator!

Senator
03-07-2012, 06:00 AM
One eye open gentlemen, for a possible announcement.

http://athleticbusiness.com/galleries/images/large/076A-609-AB.jpg

Episcopal School of Dallas — Gene and Jerry Jones Family Stadium

Dallas, Texas

Year in Showcase: 2009

Project Description

Made possible by a donation from Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, the Gene & Jerry Jones Family Stadium was designed to meet the demands of the school’s rapidly growing athletics program.

The facility includes public restrooms, two team locker rooms, a field office, a concessions stand, press boxes. An elevator provides access from the ground level to two additional seating levels, as well as press and coaches’ boxes.

Designed to fit in with the existing campus context, the stadium was constructed of prairie stone and brick. Tower elements promote visual recognition of the school, while a paved plaza creates a landscaped pedestrian walkway connecting the stadium to the nearby Susan M. Frank Center for Arts and Humanities.

The canopy and flanking towers give the stadium a strong presence within the campus setting, and the tower roofs afford views of the field for recording games. The form of the press box roof provides shade for spectators, as well as an interesting visual.

If you have time, watch this overview of the athletic/wellness area:
<object style="height: 390px; width: 640px"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/H7iuRvAErns?version=3&feature=player_detailpage"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/H7iuRvAErns?version=3&feature=player_detailpage" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" width="640" height="360"></object>



Largest Video Scoreboard in Texas Installed at Episcopal School of Dallas.

http://www.ultravisionled.com/index.php?src=news&refno=15&category=UVM_News

http://www.ultravisionled.com/clientuploads/news_articles/esd_lg_01.jpg

Senator
03-09-2012, 10:09 PM
Looks like yours truly will be assisting the head coach at Dallas Episcopal this coming fall.

Damn, right!!

BYU 14
03-09-2012, 11:23 PM
Looks like yours truly will be assisting the head coach at Dallas Episcopal this coming fall.

Damn, right!!

Congrats and damn I want to coach in Texas :)

JonInMiddleGA
03-09-2012, 11:40 PM
Coolness :)

Senator
03-10-2012, 06:17 AM
Remember in 2004 when this thread started he was a married father of two, with a nothing job, wondering if he should go back to college to play football at age 29?

Now, he is head coach of one of the most prestigious schools in Texas and one of the highest paid coaches as well.

You guys were right at the beginning, this is stranger than fiction.

Senator
03-10-2012, 06:18 AM
Contract signed, sealed, and delivered, but announcement will come at a press conference after spring break. I will post that here then, but wanted to tell my friends here who have followed this from 2004.



http://www.operationsports.com/fofc/showthread.php?t=27938&highlight=living+dream

Alf
03-10-2012, 07:36 AM
This is why people like the United States of America : this can happen !

Senator
03-10-2012, 11:03 AM
Officially broke over the wire.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7051/6969792473_d9660b9eac_b.jpg

PilotMan
03-10-2012, 12:22 PM
Fantastic! That is one hell of a stadium, what an opportunity!

Senator
03-23-2012, 05:50 PM
spcsports.org


http://www.spcsports.net/rotatorimages/esd_sanders_fb_thumb_12.jpg http://www.esdallas.org/uploaded/documents/2011_2012_Newsletter/NEWS_ANNOUNCEMENTS/Coach_Sanders.jpg


ESD Announces New Football Coach & Assistant Coach
Posted 03/21/2012 05:20PM

From Coach David Tollison, Director of Athletics and Wellness:

We are pleased to announce that ESD has hired a new head football coach and assistant coach to shape and guide all aspects of our football program, grades 7-12. Clayton Sanders will be the head coach and defensive coordinator and Richard Williams will be the offensive coordinator. Both coaches come to us from Houston Kinkaid, where they helped the Falcons claim the SPC Division I Championship the last two seasons. We are confident Clayton and Richard will help us realize our goal of building a unified football program of which our community can be proud.

Clayton Sanders is a highly-regarded inspirational and enthusiastic motivator. He will harness the energy and talent of a wide-range of people and engage all facets of our community. Coach Sanders will provide many opportunities for our student-athletes to enhance their spiritual, intellectual, and physical development. Moreover, Coach Sanders has a great deal of experience and knowledge of the game of football. He has played, coached, and experienced success at every level, including at the collegiate level, and has served as the assistant head coach and defensive coordinator for two high schools. Most recently, impressive results have come while coaching at SPC rival Houston Kinkaid. A few highlights include:

20-1 record and two conference championships (2011 and 2010)
One of the top defenses in the conference both years--allowing opponents, on average, fewer than 200 total yards per game
In 2010 the defense, on average, held opponents to 18 points per game while forcing 5 turnovers per game
In 2011 the defense, on average, held opponents to 11 points per game while forcing 4 turnovers per game

Richard Williams, a Kinkaid alum, is an engaging educator and coach. In addition to his assistant coaching duties for football, wrestling, and track at Kinkaid, Coach Williams currently works as a physics instructor and the science department's lab manager. He will serve in the same capacities at ESD. Coach Williams also has a strong football background, having played and coached at the collegiate level. He was a starting running back and team captain at Rice University and served as a graduate assistant coach at Rice in 1991. For the past two seasons, Coach Williams has been Kinkaid's offensive coordinator. A few of the Falcon's offensive highlights include:

One of the top offenses in the conference the past two years--averaging over 400 total yards per game
2010 team averaged 40 points per game
2011 team averaged 54 points per game

We believe one of the most important components of a successful varsity program is providing a training ground for our student-athletes to develop and mature. As such, Coach Sanders and Coach Williams are committed to supporting our Middle School program and reestablishing the JV program, providing a safe and substantive experience at all levels. This requires immediate and dedicated attention, ensuring we are prepared for spring training and the 2012 football season.

Clayton Sanders and Richard Williams are men of strong character, integrity, and faith who will be outstanding role-models and mentors for our student-athletes. I look forward to the beginning of an exciting new era in football at ESD.

Thank you for your continued support of ESD athletics.

Izulde
03-23-2012, 06:38 PM
There aren't enough words to say how cool this is. Congratulations, Clay!

Senator
04-20-2012, 07:47 PM
Spending my late hours memorizing a 105 page offensive playbook. Spring football on May 7-12. This is harder than I thought.

Big jump from coaching my little youth team the past 7 years and this level.

NEPOTISM RULZ!!!

BYU 14
04-21-2012, 08:52 AM
Spending my late hours memorizing a 105 page offensive playbook. Spring football on May 7-12. This is harder than I thought.

Big jump from coaching my little youth team the past 7 years and this level.

NEPOTISM RULZ!!!

Holy crap, that's pretty robust for a HS team. Our 'antiquated' Wing T playbook is only 48 pages, however when you take all the passing we will rarely do out it is only 22 :)

What position(s) are you coaching? (rechecked the thread, but didn't see it mentioned)

Senator
04-21-2012, 09:06 AM
Assistant OC in the booth. I can only make the summer camps and 7-7 because of my regular job, but I will do HUDL scout during the week, and then assist play calling on Friday nights. Not a bad gig for someone like me.

Was going to help with QB's but some dude named Aikman bumped me after hanging with my brother at a school fundraiser last week. So much for blood being thicker than water.

Alf
04-21-2012, 10:06 AM
Aikman ?

Senator
04-21-2012, 10:59 AM
Yeah, apparently he and Moose (who both have kids at the school) want to be a part of things.

BYU 14
04-21-2012, 04:25 PM
Yeah, apparently he and Moose (who both have kids at the school) want to be a part of things.

But Skip Bayless said Aikman was........:eek:

Senator
04-21-2012, 04:28 PM
I will make a pass at him and report back here.

MIJB#19
04-21-2012, 05:22 PM
Happy for you and your brother, Senator. Good luck this upcoming season!

Alf
04-22-2012, 04:37 AM
Yeah, apparently he and Moose (who both have kids at the school) want to be a part of things.

Geez. Those guys can't give bad advice football wise I'd say. Wow.

Senator
05-26-2012, 05:57 AM
Today I am coaching the ESD varsity 7-7 in the State Qualifying Tournament. The head coach cannot coach because it is summer and this is UIL, so he asked me to do it. Up and at em at 5am, its going to be a long day. I have no idea what to expect. We have to be in the top 2 of a pool of 32 to make it to the state tournament in July. I know we are about 3 weeks behind other schools in prep but these kids will compete if I don't screw up calling plays.

Senator
05-26-2012, 03:36 PM
That was hella fun.

Icy
05-29-2012, 05:14 AM
Awesome how things have gone since 2004 when we started to follow your brother, a true success story that could be a nice movie plot one day.

Senator
06-03-2012, 10:00 PM
A brutal day in Wichita Falls, Texas. Heat beat down as we played game after game. Cramps were a problem. Stiff competition was a problem. Character and Determination won out. First time in school history to make the State 7-7 Tournament for all UIL public and private schools - heading to Texas A&M. A great day!

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8021/7332605452_88f2017401_b.jpg

MIJB#19
06-05-2012, 02:39 PM
I thought tebowing was sooooooooo 2011.


Anyway, happy to read you and the kids had so much fun.

Senator
06-07-2012, 07:08 PM
The kid Tebowing could be TT little brother. They look exactly alike. So much so, that during the entire tournament, the other teams taunted him with it. I told him his only answer is the scoreboard at the end of the day. That was his little payback when the other teams were watching.

I will start another thread and end this one. I think a fresh one about the season upcoming would be better.

MIJB#19
06-09-2012, 05:51 PM
The kid Tebowing could be TT little brother. They look exactly alike. So much so, that during the entire tournament, the other teams taunted him with it. I told him his only answer is the scoreboard at the end of the day. That was his little payback when the other teams were watching.:D well done!