VIKINGS PROVIDE MOUNTAIN MEN WITH GOOD TEST
Posted 09-02-02
A hard-hitting and revamped West High School (Bakersfield) squad made their way up to the mountain last Friday night for a scrimmage against the Warriors. Right from the get go, the Vikings showed everyone in attendance that they’re ready for the 2002 season.
West started off their first offensive series slow with a fumble at their own 21 yard line, but eight plays later West completed a go-route pass that went for a 74 yard touchdown run. West’s other score came in the third series on a short yardage up-the-middle play after a 24 yard reception.
Despite the two scores, the Warriors kept the Vikes at bay for most of the night, running down the speedy receivers and putting a lot of pressure on the quarterback. Tehachapi was spread out most of the night because of West’s multiple-threat attack, but on defense Josh Christy was able to log in six tackles, and Alfredo Yttesen and Andy Grantham were able to register a sack and 3 and 4 tackles respectively.
On offense, Tanner Hutchinson took a lot of the load with seven carries for 59 yards and an 8 yard reception, and sophomore Mike Faulkner looked good in his varsity debut by notching in 58 yards on only four touches.
The Warriors are scheduled for a bye this week, but Athletic Director Grant Snyder is optimistic that a scrimmage between Mojave and Quartz Hill at Quartz Hill High School could happen on Friday, September 6th. For updates, come back to the site later on in the week for times and confirmation of this event.
The Warriors first pre-season game is set to happen September 13th at Ridgecrest vs. Burroughs High School. Be sure to tune in next Sunday to the Weekly Warrior for a scouting report, everyone have a great week!
WEEKLY WARRIOR NOTES
-If the game with Quartz Hill (Lancaster) doesn’t materialize, Desert High School is hosting a scrimmage at Edwards AFB with Palmdale and Burroughs (Ridgecrest). It will be a good chance to see what the Warriors are up against in week 1 if you can make it. If you want to see actual games, East High is going to Garces and Bakersfield High is at home against Stockdale if you want to see some good football action.
-This past Wednesday night the Tehachapi Indians, Braves, and Warriors participated in the annual “Meet the Warriors” night, giving both students, parents, and fans a chance to meet and associate with the young men that will represent the community every Thursday and Friday night.
The event was deemed a success by all, with The Warrior Booster Club increasing their membership size with a T-Shirt / Hat promotion with a one year membership for the low price of $30. If you are interested in joining the Warrior Boosters, Tuesday night they will be meeting again at the High School Cafeteria on Tuesday, September 3rd at 6:00pm.
Along with the socializing and barbecuing that went on Wednesday night, the heart of the evening was player introductions by Denman. When the players were introduced, the head coach had a lot of positive comments to say about the 2002 Warriors.
One of the notables comments was for Willie Greenan, “Willie is a real leader for us on and off the field,” and ‘pup’ Mike Faulkner, the lone sophomore on the varsity squad. “I know a lot of parents out there might be a little apprehensive to have their son play on the varsity squad if he’s a sophomore, but to have the chance to move up is a great compliment, and the coaching staff feels that Mike can do a lot of good things for us this year as a varsity player.” added Denman.
Coach Denman also praised Andy Grantham for being a three-year veteran and a leader, along with Tim Wilson and Brandon Lykins, with Denman saying “Tim and Brandon have both worked their tail off all off season and been real leaders in the weight room, going above and beyond what was asked of them.”
Coach ended his talk to the audience by saying that he believes that it’s important for the players to have fun while learning some life skills and discipline that they can carry with them the rest of their lives.
“The kids are giving their heart and soul this year, and everyone’s having a lot of fun,” says Denman. “With out the community and parents support, we wouldn’t have a program, so thank you all for all of your contributions. We look forward to playing hard this year and representing Tehachapi well.”
