Sports
Parkersburg Big Reds Preview
By: Katie Doup
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Going into their second season with Coach Don Reeves, the Parkersburg High School football team is well underway in preparations for another winning season. Last year the Big Reds went 6-5, losing in the first round of the state playoffs. Coach Reeves said in an interview “We only lost four starters on both sides of the ball from last year. Running back Alan Wasanga, tackle Justin Johnson, receiver and defensive back Seth Frederick, tackle Robby Kelly and linebacker Tyler Gherke.” He added “the returning starters from last year will make the loss of these players an easier transition for us.”
Returning starters include quarterback Alex Ash, running back Chad Collins and the All-State tackle John Weber, along with Mike Talbott, Hunter Shank and Jeremy Bell. Last year Alex Ash passed for over 1,900 yards with 15 touchdowns. Chad Collins will lead the way on both sides of the ball and will also punt this year. Jeremy Bell will lead the team this year in receiving and touchdowns from last year.
In preseason preparations, coach Reeves says that there has been “a strong emphasis on movement and conditioning drills” in order to help prevent preseason injuries. This year’s team will have 24 seniors, 26 juniors, 20 sophomores and 35 freshmen. Reeves says that “is a total of 105 players to help build on the Parkersburg football tradition.” The Big Reds will open the season on August 36 at home against Brooke.