Southern Ohio Conference (SOC) II Preview
By: Donovan Varney
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Wheelersburg Pirates
There are well-rounded teams and then there’s the Wheelersburg Pirates. The reigning SOC champs are looking to continue their dominance this season after graduating six All-Ohio players. Despite losing some players, quarterback Braylon Rucker remains behind an experienced offensive line. Head coach Rob Woodward won a state championship with Wheelersburg in 2017 and is trying to prepare his players for a return to the big stage.
“I recognized in my early years of coaching we’ve got to get a mindset in our athletes to understand the long haul and what it takes,” Woodward said.
After an impressive playoff run came to an end in the regional finals last season, the Pirates are counting down to week one so they can get right back at it.
Portsmouth West Senators
One of the most exciting offenses in Southeast Ohio is going to look a lot different this season. After a first-round playoff exit and graduating Gridiron Glory Player of the Year nominee Jeffery Bishop and quarterback Cole Tipton, the Senators will have to adjust.
Portsmouth West fell into second place in the SOC last season after winning it the year before. The Senators will look to stay at the top of the conference despite losing some formidable athletes.
Waverly Tigers
It’s almost hard to imagine Waverly football without their star running back Jase Hurd, but this year it’s a reality. Despite graduating Hurd, the Tigers keep some key contributors from last year’s team.
Quarterback Mason Kelly enters his senior season with two of his favorite deep threat targets, Kody Swords and Lane Bear. The Tigers finished third in the conference last season but may be able to use their returning experience to make some noise in the SOC this year.
Valley Indians
The Valley Indians are coming into this season looking to make some noise. Oftentimes overlooked, this team led by head coach Nolan Crabtree is ready to compete this season in the SOC. Valley has some solid players across the board, which includes their nationally ranked kicker, Jaylen Bender. It’ll be interesting to see how Valley measures up against some of the more competitive teams they’ll face this season.
Minford Falcons
The Minford Falcons welcome first-year head coach Jordan Michael into the locker room for the upcoming season. Although the Falcons put together a 5-5 record last season, Minford was only able to get one conference win.
Since graduating their difference maker on both sides of the ball, Jeff Pica, the new-look Falcons hope to address some of their in-conference issues from last season.
Northwest Mohawks
A 3-7 record doesn’t do the Northwest Mohawks justice when it comes to their talent. Twice last season Northwest lost by just one point, which makes a big difference in their overall record. Coach Bill Crabtree loses 11 seniors from last year’s team but looks to flip the script from last season with returning players like quarterback Jake Brown.
Oak Hill Oaks
From game cancellations to coaching drama, Oak Hill is looking to rebuild after an underwhelming season. First-year head coach Jason Fitzhugh is taking the mantle with hopes of turning the winless Oaks into a storied program. Only time will tell if he can help turn things around in one of southeast Ohio’s best football conferences.