Getting behind the 8-ball in a new league Eight is enough for Laguna Blanca School, which will play its third season of eight-man football this year. The private school in Hope Ranch, which has grown to around 180 students, played a free-lance schedule two years ago and played last year as a JV team in the Coast Valley League. The Owls move up to the varsity level this year, despite having a team of all sophomores and juniors. The Coast Valley League winds mostly through the backroads of San Luis Obispo County. "At Shandon, from what I hear, the parents ride their horses to the games," said coach Ray Robitaille, who founded the Owls program at the behest of a group of students. Laguna Blanca went 5-3 at the JV level last year and most of the players are back. The current roster lists 14 players, but Robitaille expects it could grow once school starts. Robitaille said junior Zack Pruitt will be the quarterback and sophomore Stuart Felkner the running back. "He's going to be good," said Robitaille of Felkner. Outside linebackers Tim Nelson and Jeff Hartman are also worth watching, he said. Eight-man football is played with the same rules as 11-man football but with only three linemen and one less back. The field is smaller (80 x 40 yards) so big plays and high scores are common. "We're going to have our hands full," said Robitaille. "Maricopa has a really strong program. They have a stadium with lights and they play on Friday night. Some people are saying they could be the best in the state (for 8-man, small schools)." Laguna opens Sept. 20 at Southland Christian in Walnut. |
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| Bishop Diego Cardinals
• Cabrillo Conquistadores •
Carpinteria Warriors • Dos
Pueblos Chargers • Laguna Blanca
Owls |
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Coach: Ray Robitaille (2nd year of varsity, 3-4)
