The Skinny
The Starr’s Mill Panthers advanced to the 3rd round of the State Playoffs last season before falling to eventual State Champion, Rome. Coach Phillips had a veteran team last season, so it’s no surprise that he said, “Replacing all the veteran skill players from a 2 time region champion team”, is one of the biggest challenges for the Panthers in 2018. Among those players that the Panthers will have to replace is Region 3 offensive player of the year Joey DeLuca.
The offense will be breaking in several new starters this season, but the cupboard is not completely bare.
“Kalen Sims returns after 2 successful seasons as our A back. Senior place-kicker Michael Lantz is one of the top-ranked kickers in the country. Most all other players will be new starters. “ said Phillips
Phillips added, “Kalen Sims had been sharing time at A back with a graduated senior. This season he will get all the carries. Hunter Lawson has been the back up, now he is the projected starter at QB.”
On defense, Phillips said “Senior linebacker Michael Burnett and Safety Sean King will lead our defense. Kelvin Wyle (DL), Nate Kearns (CB), and Cole Bishop saw significant time last season as well.”
Additionally, “Cole Bishop has been moved from the starting SS to our Bandit. Ben Bodnee steps into the role as our Mike backer. “
While the Panthers will not be overlooking any opponents, Coach Phillips said, “Griffin is always the measuring stick in our region.”
Regarding a successful season; Phillips explained “If we can get production from 3 new starters in our backfield, including a new QB, we have a chance to win some games. The OL will need to be rebuilt as well. Only expectations are always post-season play. A successful season would be marked by a 5th consecutive playoff appearance. “
Off the field, the Panthers are active in the community.
“Most all of our players volunteer for our mentor program here,” he said, “We have had great success with our Future Panthers program at Starr’s Mill.”
