LCAA Preview
By Frank Vajcner
The Lenawee County Athletics Association is always considered a meat grinder.
Even with a six-game schedule this year, I still believe that to be the case. A team’s record may not necessarily be a reflection of how good they truly are.
Rather than a predicted order of finish, I’ll list all teams in alphabetical order with a storyline.
Blissfield: It feels like only yesterday Gavin Ganun was starting at QB as a freshman. With talent like WRs Zack Horky and WR Ty Wyman, along with RBs Josh Weasel and Hunter Smith around him, the Royals may have the most skill talent in the conference. Line play will be key as the offensive line will be all new. Defensive names to watch include DEs Ricky Eisenmann and Nic Ostas, LB Henry Smith, and DB Nolan Savich.
Clinton: I spoke to some LCAA coaches this offseason, and they pointed to the new kids on the block as the favorite. Clinton returns RBs Jack Voll, Brayden Randolph, and Davey Campbell to their full house T attack. An experienced line will help make things easier for new QB Derek Tomalak. The Redskins also return nine starters on defense.
Columbia Central: The Golden Eagles could be a wild card in the conference. QB Ethan Emerson returns to lead an explosive offense.
Dundee: A new era begins for the Vikings with new head coach Ross Crow. Carson Irwin takes over at QB, but will be in a new offense. LB Ty Schroder will be a terror for opposing QBs, as he set the school record for sacks last season.
Hillsdale: The Hornets just keep on keepin’ on. Despite heavy graduation losses, Hillsdale returns QB Logan Wagler and RB Brock Woodard to lead their full house T offense. Who becomes an impact player on defense remains a question.
Hudson: Like Dundee, Hudson is in a new era. Dan Rogers takes over as head coach after Chris Luma retired. QB Dylan Smith returns to lead the offense for the Tigers, while LBs Cam Underwood and Bronson Marry will lead the defense.
Ida: The Blue Streaks return one of the most electrifying playmakers in RB/DB/KR Owen Sampson. A lot will come down to how well sophomore QB Nate Miller can perform in big moments. DL Ty Hathaway and LB Park Henry will be names to watch on defense.
Onsted: The Wildcats lost a lot from a team that gave eventual Division 6 Champ SMCC all they could handle, but the cupboard isn’t that bare. QB Dylan Terryberry and RB Greg Denkins return on offense, while LBs Logan Roberge and Dylan Erway return on defense. The Cats also return one of the best kickers in the state in Xander Oullette.
Thoughts from Chris: I agree with Frank, the LCAA is a meat grinder. I think the easy pick would be Clinton, but I wouldn’t count out Onsted, Ida, Blissfield or the defending champion; Hillsdale Hornets.
Thoughts from Gary: The LCAA is comprised of hard nosed teams with some very nice QB’s sprinkled in. I look for Blissfield and Clinton to battle for the top spot, but there are several teams that could stake their claim for the LCAA title.