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2010 CENTRAL VALLEY CONFERENCE
Hopes are extremely high at McNary, where the Celtics appear poised to compete for a playoff spot after winning just one CVC football game in the last two seasons. Coach Rick Ward is optimistic about his team’s chances after the young crew took their lumps in 2010. Adding to the positive outlook is a talented group of younger players who excelled at the freshman and sophomore levels last fall.
OFFENSE The Celtic’s spread offense is expected to be much better with the return of quarterback Justin Burgess (6-3 195). The senior transferred to South Salem last year, but did not play due to injury. Ward says Burgess’s athleticism will make everyone else around him better. The McNary rushing attack will feature juniors Zac Feagles (5-8 160) and Brandon Magofna (6-0 195)—both of whom saw some varsity action last season. The pass will still be McNary’s primary offensive weapon—the team gained nearly 2500 yards through the air in 2010. Returning for the Celts are seniors Justin Gardner (5-8 170) and Garren Robinett (6-1 180). Gardner caught 36 passes for 538 yards enroute to second team all-conference honors, while Robinett was a first team pick after recording 895 yards on 56 catches. The offensive line will be both larger and more experienced in 2011. Juniors Kelly Cowan (6-1 245), Austin Wilson (6-2 220) and Mason Ross (6-0 230), and seniors Todd Hatley (5-11 195), Anthony Flores (6-0 235) and Joel Hunter (6-2 265) are back to provide more pass protection and significantly improve the Celtic running game.
DEFENSE On the d-line, Wilson will reprise his role as a two-way starter. Flores, Hunter and Brown will also return. Ward also hopes to include sophomore Bruce Isabell (6-1 235), and seniors Kyle Blank (6-3 295) and Brett Goesch (6-7 335) in the mix. At linebacker Hatley, Hunter, Austin Haney (6-3 195 Sr.), Austin McAndrew (5-8 185 Sr.), and Jesse Bryant (6-0 230 Jr.) will split time for McNary. The secondary also is deep with Burgess, Feagles and Robinett sharing time with senior Mike Gerasimenko (5-8 165), and two sophomores—Garrett Hittner (6-2 170), and Bret Hildebrand (5-9 165). On the special teams, Gonzalo Cervantes returns as place kicker.
Full Access Sports Coaches Poll Prediction: 4th place
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MCNARY