Freedom Patriots at the Strawberry Crest Chargers
Hanna Yi

This game was one that tugged at my heart. Even though we are supposed to remain neutral, both teams have players and history with me. So who to root for? Freedom, who I’ve had the pleasure of working their sidelines for 7 years until I started working at Big County Preps, or Strawberry Crest, and the players who I have become so close to throughout all the obstacles they’ve gone through, especially this summer. Well, to be honest, I rooted for both! And the players knew it. In fact, both teams surprised me in different ways and there were some outstanding players that stood out completely.

Let’s start with Freedom RB, Tyrel Nunn. This kid is going to make a name for himself during his senior year if he keeps playing the way he did Friday night. He had a breakout 71-yard TD run on the second play of the game to jump start the Patriots offense and put them on the board. His next rushing attempt was for 21 yards, finishing the contest with 105 yards.

Freedom LB, Brody Flanigan, had an outstanding performance. Every time there was a sack or a tackle, it seemed like he was the one in the middle of the play. Keep an eye out for him because he’s only going to get better.

Freedom QB, Jon Economou had a great night before 2nd-string QB, Taylor King stepped in to finishing the preseason classic. Economou connected with WR, Deven Turner for the only Patriot passing TD on the night. I expect him to lead this team in the right direction.

Strawberry Crest WR and 2nd-string QB, Karel Hamilton is going to be one of the biggest names by the end of this season. Not only is he one of the best receivers I’ve seen on the field, he also played safety as well as taking a few reps at the QB position Friday night. He ended with 101 receiving yards on just 4 catches and 2 touchdowns. Other efforts to mention were those of WR, Tarik Kazbour and RB, Chris Perez. Perez performed well and may give the other running backs in the county a “run” for their money. These three in addition to QB, Trey Vandergrift, should make for a killer offensive unit. The offensive will improve, giving Vandergrift more time in the pocket and ultimately improving the Charger offense as a whole..

Crest defensive players, Josh Engram, Guillermo Garcia, Dylan LaMandra, and Jared Gretebeck came out in the second half and held Freedom’s offense to just 7 points. Engram had a huge game, which including an interception that was definitely caused a momentum shift. LaMandra kept Economou and King scrambling all night as he blitzed them every time he got a chance.

Overall, a good ball game, especially in the second half. I can’t wait to see how these teams develop to become even better throughout the season. And now looking forward to next week, wherever I may be. Good luck to all the teams! Let’s have a great 2011 season!

Final
Freedom 31
Strawberry Crest 20