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2007 CENTRAL VALLEY FOOTBALL PREVIEW
2006 was a volatile year for the Redmond Panthers. They were unwittingly embroiled in the debate over the OSAA’s realignment to a six tier classification system. Parents on the west side of the Cascade Mountains expressed concern that the 230 mile trip to Redmond was extremely hazardous during the winter, and some whispered that perhaps the former IMC school wasn’t up to handling Salem-Keizer competition.
More success is anticipated again this year for the Panthers. First team all-conference quarterback Cody Johnson is back for his senior season, after throwing for nearly 1700 yards and 10 touchdowns last year. He will have some experienced targets to throw to in seniors Christian Arsenault (6-1 185) and Bo Guthrie (5-11 175), who both bring speed and athleticism to the field. Senior tight end Ian Ronzoni (5-11 185) will also be back as a starter. The Panther rushing attack also has back two big primary weapons. Second team all-conference fullback Clayton York (6-0 200), who gained 459 yards and scored eight TDs in the regular season. Ty Nordstrom (5-10 180 Sr.) also rushed for nearly 500 yards in nabbing honorable mention accolades. Ruecker says this year’s offensive line will be bigger than last season. Senior Caleb Brock (6-3 240) and junior Cody Stock (6-1 200) return and will have support from a group of juniors averaging six feet tall and 220 pounds each. On the defensive side, senior nose guard Brandon Shields (5-11 190) comes back to lead the d-line after earning second team honors in 2006. At linebacker, Dusty Brown (6-1 185) and Butch Whitaker (6-0 190) will serve as inside stalwarts to be reckoned with. In the secondary, Guthrie, Arsenault and York bring all-league credentials and experience to the field. Redmond has an extended preseason with four consecutive games against Grants Pass, Bend, Beaverton and Milwaukie. They start their six game CVC schedule on the road at South Salem.
Get a complete CVC football schedule here
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REDMOND
While the debate still rages on about the safety issue, there is no doubt about Redmond’s belonging in the CVC, after coach Craig Ruecker led his team to a third place finish and playoff berth last season.
