Saturday, December 28, 2013

2014 AGM On Near Horizon!

AGM Reminder - Jan 11th - 10:00am - Burnaby 8 Rinks
 
It is important that all members attend, consider and vote lest your fate be decided by others.
 
2014
AA Varsity Schedule
 
Week #0 August 29-30
 
Week #1 September 5-6
 
Week #2 September 12-13
 
Week #3 September 19-20
                                                                                                                       
Sentinel @ Argyle                         
Abbotsford @ Pitt Meadows
Carson Graham @ Nanaimo Robert
Bateman @ Mission
Ballenas @ John Barsby              
G.W. Graham @ Rick Hansen
Windsor – BYE SRT – BYE 
    
Week #4 September 26-27
 
Ballenas @ Carson Graham        
Robert Bateman @ Rick Hansen
Argyle @ Nanaimo                                   
Mission @ Abbotsford
Windsor @ Sentinel                     
Pitt Meadows @ SRT
G.W Graham – BYE John Barsby -- BYE
 
Week #5 October 3-4
Windsor @ Carson Graham       
SRT @ Robert Bateman                           
Holy Cross @ Frank Hurt
Sentinel @ John Barsby               
G.W. Graham @ Pitt Meadows            
Hugh Boyd @ Seaquam
Nanaimo @ Ballenas                    
Mission @ Rick Hansen                           
Moscrop @ Langley
Abbotsford – BYE Argyle -- BYE
 
Week #6 October 10-11
John Barsby @ Nanaimo             
Mission @ G.W Graham                         
Moscrop @ Hugh Boyd
Carson Graham @ Sentinel        
Pitt Meadows @ Robert Bateman         
Seaquam @ Holy Cross
Argyle @ Windsor                        
SRT @ Abbotsford                                    
Langley @ F. Hurt
Ballenas – BYE Rick Hansen --BYE                                    
 
Week #7 October 17-18
 
Argyle @ John Barsby                  
Abbotsford @ G.W. Graham                 
Seaquam @ Moscrop
Windsor @ Ballenas                     
Rick Hansen @ SRT                                   
Frank Hurt @ Hugh Boyd
Sentinel @ Nanaimo                    
Pitt Meadows @ Mission                        
Langley @ H. Cross
Carson Graham –BYE Robert Bateman --BYE
 
Week #8 Octobler 25-25
 
Ballenas @ Sentinel                      
Rick Hansen @ Pitt Meadows                
Holy Cross @ Moscrop
John Barsby @ Windsor              
SRT @ G.W. Graham                                
Hugh Boyd @ Langley
Carson Graham @ Argyle                       
Abbotsford @ Robert Bateman            
Frank Hurt @ Seaquam
Nanaimo – BYE Mission -- BYE
 
Week #9 Oct. 31-Nov. 1
 
Nanaimo @ Windsor                   
SRT @ Mission                                           
Langley @ Seaquam
Argyle @ Ballenas                         
Rick Hansen @ Abbotsford                    
Holy Cross @ Hugh Boyd
John Barsby @ Carson Graham
Robert Bateman @ GW Graham          
Moscrop @ Frank Hurt
Sentinel – BYE Pitt Meadows –BYE

Subway Bowl



Monday, December 23, 2013

Wednesday, November 27, 2013

The Big Munch

Don't swallow everything you have been told.
 
"Number one or No One is a lie"
 
It is about being all you can be, all the time
 
TOGETHER
 
There will be no winners and losers in the Subway Bowl
 
I predict.....
 
Valor!
 
 
 

Sunday, November 17, 2013

2013 Semi-Final Edition

2013 BC AA Varsity Semi-Final


GI's Picks

Carson Graham @ South Delta: This is going to be a terrific game.  Both squads are big, fast, deep and loaded with talent at every position.  The respective defensive coordinators have raised the trading stock price of Pepto-Bismol by a factor of three as soon as it became clear who they were facing.  I think the team that limits the most explosive plays that are run against it will triumph.  The Carson running back will garner a lot of attention and the South Delta receivers will have to be on their A-Game for sure. GI's Pick: South Delta by 6

Mission @ John Barsby: This will be an all out dust-up between two very disimilar yet familiar teams.  Mission holds an edge in terms of top end speed. but Barsby is bigger and has a bit more depth than their opponents.  Defense and limiting turnovers will win this game, hands down. GI's Pick: Barsby by 3

AA Junior Varsity Semi-Finals

Ballenas @ Vernon:  Ballenas has had its toughest games against teams that are patient and run, run, run the ball.  Vernon has not played the calibre of competition that Ballenas has week in and week out.  This game will be very close for two and a half quarters before the Whalers pull away. GI's Pick: Whalers by 14

Argyle @ GW Graham: This game matches two programs that were not even in existence three seasons ago.  A battle of up and comers for sure!  Both teams can throw the ball very well.  Argyle is going to have to play its A-Game vs the pass in order to compete.  Graham has the edge in size. GI's Pick: Grizzlies by 12

Wednesday, November 13, 2013

BC Quarter-Finals

GI's Quarter-Final Picks
 
Well it is down to eight teams and soon four.  In the mix this weekend is going to be at least one superb game, perhaps several.  Most of the carnage will take place on Friday with one lone game on Sat.
 
Friday
 
Carson Graham @ Vernon:  The Eagles came through the opening round stronger than ever and now face the only undefeated varsity team in BC, AA or AAA in the Vernon Panthers.  This game will boil down to whether or not Carson will jump out to an early big lead or be held to a close score in the late rounds.  Vernon will be able to move the football, question is, will they be able to do so at the same pace and in the same chunks of yardage as Carson and their back AJ Blackwell.  Carson can throw the ball better than the Panthers as well.  GI's Pick: Carson by 11
 
Rick Hansen @ South Delta: Could be the Marquee match-up of the quarter-finals.  Hansen can match-up across the board vs the Sundevils in terms of speed, size and athleticism.  This one will go down to turnovers and field position.  If the Hurricanes can make this game one dimensional by defending the SD passing game, we may have a new champion in 2013.  Really comes down to that.  GI's Pick: South Delta by 4
 
Frank Hurt @ Mission:  Great season Hornets.  Quarters your first year back in AA ball.  Mission however is where Cinderella can't find her shoe.  The Roadrunners had their way with a Ballenas team that ran rampant over the Hornets a few short weeks ago.  They are fast, technically as sound as it gets and veteren with playoff experience layered in years.  GI's Pick: Mission by 35
 
Saturday
 
Holy Cross @ John Barsby: The Crusaders are back folks and it begins with their defense!  Like a large constrictor snake it just tightens and tightens on its opponents once it makes contact.  This crew held South Delta to a modest score and has been blanking opponents of late.  The offense is no slouch either and a threat to score anywhere, any time, anyhow.  Barsby leads with its defense first and foremost and can put up points on that side of the ball.  Offensively, the Dawgs are very, very balanced with a great power game and an understated, but lethal passing game if need be.  The HC defense however, means that this game can be kept close and close games can be won.  Dawgs beware. GI's Pick: Barsby by 11

 

Monday, November 4, 2013

Regular Season Wrap

2013 Regular Season Is Now In The Books

Was it me or did this season seem to fly by?  Things seemed to go pretty smoothly on balance and the top five played out as expected.  I cannot think of a big upset so-to-speak, but there were several close calls and the playoffs look like there is going to be some tight ones and much parity.

Week Nine finished with a wild one in Parksville with Carson winning a shoot-out vs the Whalers by a score of 60-46.  Who would have thought that these teams would have put over a hundred points on the board between them?  High school athletes never cease to amaze!  Mission, Holy Cross, Windsor, Hugh Boyd, Pitt, Duchess and Rick Hansen finished their seasons with a bang and have hit the playoffs running.

To all the g. 12's who played their last down of high school football this weekend, way to go fellas.  You will remember long into your lives that every rep in practice and every down on gameday were gold and surely worth the time and effort.  You made yourselves and everyone around you better.  Find some time in your lives to give back to the game as a coach or referee.  It matters.

Scores

FRIDAY

John Barsby 47 Nanaimo District 13
Mission 51 Robert Bateman 27
Windsor 51 Argyle 0
Duchess Park 33 College Heights 0
Hugh Boyd 46 Sentinel 0

Pitt Meadows 50 Langly 29
GW Graham 27 Samuel Roberts Technical 13

SATURDAY

Carson Graham 60 Ballenas 46
Rick Hansen 38 Abbottsford 0
Vernon 17 Clarence Fulton 8
Holy Cross 20 Frank Hurt 0
Seaquam 50 Spectrum 0



Gridiron's Top Five

1. South Delta
2. John Barsby
3. Mission
4. Carson Graham
5. Rick Hansen



Gridiron's Round 1 Playoff Picks

Bracket A

South Delta vs College Heights: The number one ranked Sundevils have had two solid weeks to prepare for the playoffs.  They have also in their coaching staff's mind, under-performed in the mid-to late season divisional tilts.  I think these guys are going to be fresh as hec and will unmask their October blahs to reveal a November snarl. College Heights put together a good season in what was supposed to be a rebuild year for them. It will end for the Cougars in a pretty big way this week. GI's Pick: South Delta by 41

Rick Hansen vs Windsor: The  Hurricanes dominated this match-up in pre-season exhibition, but a lot of water has gone under the proverbial bridge since that sunny day.  The Dukes are perhaps the most improved team in the province along with Holy Cross.  This one will come down to whether or not Windsor can run the football.  The passing game will surely be there and will have a big impact.  How big however depends on whether or not the Hurricanes can keep max people back in coverage while still keeping the game one dimensional.  If the Dukes can run the ball, they can control the clock.  If they do that, and play some tight defense, this one is up for grabs late in the fourth.  Hansen however has had Windsor's number for over a year and has the roster depth to tangle deep into the game.  GI's Pick: Hansen by 14

Carson Graham vs Robert Bateman: Carson is coming off of an electric game vs Ballenas and the momentum of that performance will factor into their opening round tilt vs the Timberwolves.  Bateman for their part, has been playing good football of late and is pretty healthy compared to previous years.  They key to a Bateman upset is going to be lights-out team defense.  The valley squad can score points in bushells, but their defense is suspect.  Great defense and specials may keep the score close enough, long enough to pull off a major upset.  GI's Pick: Carson by 21

Vernon vs Seaquam: This game oozes parity.  Seaquam has played pretty good in conference play, is coming off of a big conference win and Vernon is well, perfect so far. Both teams run the ball well and both teams can toss it around via the air if need be.  Specials are even.  Size goes marginally to Vernon, but a tougher schedule goes to Seaquam.  The Seahawks have had to handle more adversity this year and will come through the momentum swings better.  This said there is something to be said about forming the habit of winning. The wildcard here is travel and weather.  Vernon has a shorter trip and is familiar with the game site and its particulars.  Seaquam is at a distinct disadvantage here.  If it snows, I give this one to the Panthers.  On a bright note for the Seaquam Squad, BC Ferries cannot mess up their luggage cart.  GI's Pick: Panthers by 7

Bracket B

John Barsby vs Pitt Meadows: A rematch of last year's quarter-final game has Barsby hosting a peaking Pitt Meadows squad at Merle Logan in Nanaimo.  The Marauders may very well be the most physical team coming out of the East and they are playing their best ball of 2013.  Pitt pressures very well and they don't vary from their bread and butter which is wearing down opponents with their impressive running game and taking their shots downfield vs run wary secondaries.  Barsby in its way, plays football along similar lines.  Look for a very physical and passionate four quarters from both squads. GI's Pick: Barsby by 10

Holy Cross vs Valleyview:  Holy Cross is the playoff Darkhorse in my mind.  They have been playing the best defense the program has seen since 2006 and they have been quietly racking up decisive victories within their conference.  The Crusaders are the only team that really came close to beating South Delta this year at the AA level.  Opponents beware!  Valleyview has travelled a lot this year seeking good competition where it can find it and this will help to an extent, but not enough to push around HC. GI's Pick: Crusaders by 21 in a shutout.

Mission vs Ballenas: This one will be fun to watch!  Both teams have superb coaching staffs and will be masterfully prepared for one another.  Last year's semi-final between these programs could have gone to overtime, but Ballenas courageously went for two points and the win.  They came up short.  This year's game may be close, but it will be close in a different way.  I expect lots of points on the board.  The Whalers have problems with fast teams and they don't play their A-Game on the road, at least this year.  I think that Mission may get ahead early and then get reeled in by the relentless Whaler offensive assault which is quite balanced.  Roster depth and gas in the tank come the fourth quarter will be decisive.  Special teams will be huge! GI's Pick: Mission by 12

Duchess Park vs Frank Hurt: Duchess will roll out a team that has it all, size, speed and experience.  The Condors have actively sought out lower mainland/Island competition with the express purpose of getting up to speed with the rest of the province in terms of tempo, execution and intensity.  The formula has worked out well for them vs local competition as they just finished the most dominant season of any team in the PG High School Football history books.  Now for a playoff test vs Frank Hurt.  My take on this one is that it is going to come down to defense, defense, defense for either side.  Both teams can put up big scoreboard numbers, but the game winning question is: Can they play defense?  GI's Pick: Frank Hurt by 8

AA JV Playoffs

Moscrop @ John Barsby: Moscrop plays in a tougher division than Barsby.  Barsby is always tough at home.  Moscrop travelled to Nanaimo a couple weeks ago and dismantled an Island opponent.  Barsby has been Jekyl and Hyde all year long.  The weather will be snotty.  Whomever turns over the ball the least will have an edge in this one. GI's Pick: Barsby by 1

Robert Bateman @ Pitt Meadows: Pitt has improved steadily this season and is a reflection of their surging varsity crew.  Bateman is not as big and bad or fast as in years past.  The Marauders are beginning to live up to the nickname. GI's Pick: Pitt by 14

Carson Graham @ Seaquam: Good match-up here and there will be tailfeathers a flying.  Seaquam has a couple more "athletes" in the fold than the visitors and is bigger personel-wise.  Gotta give it to the Hawks. GI's Pick: Seaquam by 5

Mission @ Ballenas: Mission has had a great run at the JV league for three years running.  These guys have won two titles and lost one over this period.  The times it seems are a changing and next year, a different formula for success is going to have to be worked-out.  Travelling to the Island is tough.  Travelling to play the best JV team Ballenas has had in eight or nine years, well that is daunting.  The Roadrunning coaching is great, the players sound...but...as the story goes, all the king's men and all the king's horses....GI's Pick: Wile E Coyete-er-um Wally Whaler catches the Roadrunner and the bird finally meets its demise..Big bad Blue by 18

Duchess Park @ Vernon: Like this one a lot!  Big strong players on both sides of the ball.  Duchess however has a split focus with their staff prepping for a big varsity game on the road this week.  Vernon is much closer to home. GI's Pick: Panthers by 11

Holy Cross @ Argyle: Interesting dynamic here.  Holy Cross has a lot more interaction between their JV's and Varsity in practice and on game day.  These kids have played and banged with varsity size and speed.  Argyle is much more balkanized as a program.  There is the advantage of systemic harmony on the squad with no tweaks and modifications from Sr. to JV and back for sure.  Mentally however, the Cross kids may not turtle at physical mismatches as they may occur.  I do think Argyle is on a mission and is one of my leading candidates for a semi-final appearance. GI's Pick: Pipers by 10

Hugh Boyd @ GW Graham: Boyd is tough and well coached.  Graham is a physical juggernaut that got punched pretty hard in the nose by Abbottsford to end the season.  Both programs have varsity coaching staff's available to lend an assist at this time.  How this is managed will be critical.  If the rosters were even, I'd give it to the Trojans, but they are not even close. GI's Pick: Grizzlies by 21

? @ Prince George:


 

Sunday, October 27, 2013

Week 9


AA Varsity Week Nine
Week Eight Wrap
 
The playoffs became much more clear with Duchess Park, South-Delta and John Barsby sewing up their conference number one seed to the playoffs and both Vernon and Mission taking a big step in that direction.  If this week's scores proved anything, there is a lot of parity developing in AA ball this year.  Kudos to Hugh Boyd and Rick Hansen on their impressive outings against traditional powers South Delta and Mission.  Notice has certainly been served that top rail in the East and South will be contested in seasons to come.  Robert Bateman, Holy Cross, Ballenas and Pitt with their week 8 wins also are making the playoff seeding much more complicated and down to the wire as they are all playing great ball headed into a week nine that will set the table for the playoff feast to come.  Great weekend of ball for sure!



Scores
THURSDAY
 
College Heights vs Correllieu????
 
FRIDAY
 
South Delta 27 Hugh Boyd 20
John Barsby 21 Carson Graham 0
Pitt Meadows 36 G.W. Graham 0
Vernon 36 Valleyview 6
Clarence Fulton 44 Westsyde 22
Kelly Road 14 Nechako Valley 13
Ballenas 48 Argyle 13
Windsor 34 Sentinel 7
Robert Bateman 54 Langley 0
Holy Cross 50 Spectrum 6
Abbotsford 14 Samuel Robertson 7
Duchess Park 49 Prince George 0
 
SATURDAY
 
Mission 24 Rick Hansen 21
The Plus-Minus
 
+ Mission's come from behind win vs Hansen. 
+Hugh Boyd's solid outing vs #1 ranked S. Delta.
+Bateman and Pitt...Solid Wins Guys.  Headed the right direction for playoffs!
+Howard's Bulletin Board Material..Barsby loved it.
-Seaquam not having their gear on other side of the Ferry trip!
-North Score not reported again...page one of getting taken seriously (Duchess Park excepted), meet your obligations.
 

 
Gridiron's Top Five
1. South Delta Sundevils
2. John Barsby Bulldogs
3. Mission Roadrunners
4. Carson Graham Eagles
5. Rick Hansen Hurricanes
AA Varsity Game Of The Week
 
 
 
                                                                              VS

 
 
Gridiron's Picks
 
Friday
Nanaimo District @ John Barsby:   A well rested Islander crew faces the division leading Bulldogs Friday afternoon at Merle Logan Field.  This game has been named the Ray Kocher Classic in honour of the man who was principal at both schools when their respective football programs were formed.  The game is always hard fought and this year promises to be no different.  The Islander Sr.'s will be playing their last game of HS football and the Dawgs are looking to springboard into the playoffs healthy and with a lot of momentum.  Both teams can run and pass the ball well.  Barsby has much more depth however and ought to outlast their foes. GI's Pick: Barsby by 20
Windsor @ Argyle: Argyle is playing its best football of the year right now which is good to see after a trying varsity season.  Windsor's offense however is like a fine surgical instrument and it carves up folks with the slightest part of their defensive game out of place.  There will be a lot of slicing and dicing on Friday as the Dukes take their last step towards the post season.  The Argyle g. 12os are to be commended however as this is the first group of players to to have strapped on football gear at the program's inception.  Congratulations fellas as you have established a football legacy and tradition at your school that many, many young people will benefit from their whole lives to follow.  It is more than just the W's at the start.  Mad Respect To You All!  GI's Pick: Windsor by 30
Mission @ Robert Bateman: If Mission wins this game, they are 1st in the East.  If Bateman wins by 14 pts or more, they are first in the East or so me thinks.  Basically, Hansen beat Bateman in Sept. by 16 pts.  Mission beat Hansen by 3.  In the event of a three way tie, I think it goes head to head competition and then points spread up to 18.  Well, the math gives me a headache in the event of a three way tie.  Mission squeaked a close one out last week and now plays a red hot group out of Abbottsford in the Timberwolves.  Bateman's running back will be singled out all day so they better have some balance in their offensive attack come Friday.  Mission has to be healthy going into this one as they are not super deep.  Bateman has never come close at varsity to winning this game.  Same coaches, different year.  GI's Pick: Mission by 12
Mt. Baker @ Valleyview: Valleyview got clobbered last week.  Now they get one more shot to do their thing this season vs the Wild.  The Viking offense ought to go wild on Friday. GI's Pick: Valleyview by 30
Westsyde @ Salmon Arm: Pride game both ways and the last game of HS football for a dedicated group of g. 12's.  Whatever the score may be, treasure thes couple of hours on the field fellas.  GI's Pick: Salmon Arm by 16
Pitt Meadows @ Langley: This game is for the 4th and final playoff seed coming out of the East and features Langley's gunslinger against a much more rounded Pitt Offense.  Looking at their respective scores I'd have to say that Pitt is on a more advanced trajectory heading into this tilt. GI's Pick:
Pitt by 16
 
GW Graham @ Samuel Roberts Technical: Last game for the 12's in both programs.  Look for Graham to light it up via the air come Friday night against their defensive foes.  Much to build on for both programs and better days ahead at Varsity.  Treasure these final practices and game experiences fellas! GI's Pick: Grizzlies by 18
Saturday
Vernon @ Clarence Fulton: Well, this is for first place in the Interior and it is a cross-town rivarlry to boot!  The atmosphere and lead-up to this game is going to be electric!!  Vernon seems unstoppable to me looking at the scores to date, but every now and then Fulton shows flashes of greatness.  I will take consistency over flashes in this one however. GI's Pick: Vernon by 21
Carson Graham @ Ballenas: Well hec, here is another math problem!  If Ballenas wins this game, which is a very real possibility, then there ought to be a three way tie for second place out West.  The Whalers lost to Windsor 28-0 and Carson beat Windsor by 1.  If the Whalers win by a Margin of 18 I think they place third in the tie breaker and Carson 4th.  If Carson wins, they are 2nd and Ballenas is 4th.  Someone get me the advil please.  Back to football.  Carson wins the speed match-up, the Whalers the push factor and the Whalers the home field advantage (game is in Parksville not at Merle Logan!).  Passing game draw, physicality, draw, running game, edge Carson.  Special teams, edge Ballenas.  GI's Pick: I don't think the Whaler defensive front is quick enough to smother the screens/counters and option game to Carson's outstanding RB.  Carson by 9
Frank Hurt @ Holy Cross: Well folks, here is yet another decisive game in terms of the playoff picture.  The upstart Frank Hurt Hornest vs the surging Holy Cross Crusaders.  I think the HC crew has has better outings against quality divisional opponents this year and that Frank Hurt is still a bit young in several key positions.  If HC can dominate the LOS against Hurt's zone blocking schemes this thing is a lock.  I think they can. GI's Pick: Crusaders by 14
Abbottsford @ Rick Hansen: Swan song for the Panther Sr.'s and neighborhood pride on the line both ways.  The Hurricanes will be licking their wounds and scheming for round 1 in the playoff tournament.  Hansen will do what it takes to win while conducting a bit of risk management health wise. GI's Pick: Hurricanes by 18
Spectrum @ Seaquam: A Huge Kudo's to the Spectrum Thunder team one and all as they finish their pioneer year as a program.  Every week these guys have come to practice and play!  The net result is going to be a battle tested, veteren bunch of players with a deep and lasting hunger for improvement the next four seasons.  Look for great leaders to emerge from this game and keep an eye on this program folks, they will be in the mix a lot sooner than most would think.  Seaquam, dang guys, your equipment left on the boat at BC Ferries last week?  Well, try to finish this one out with a bunch of positives.  The Seahawk program has laid a good foundation for future seasons and is headed in the right direction overall. GI's Pick: Seaquam by 36

Sunday, October 20, 2013

Week 8

AA Varsity Week Eight




Scores

THURSDAY

Hugh Boyd 49 at Spectrum 12
Correlieu at Prince George ???


FRIDAY

John Barsby 28 Windsor 14
Mission 55 G.W. Graham 27
Carson Graham 59 Argyle 7
Langley 21 Abbotsford 20
Robert Bateman 41 Pitt Meadows 25
Nanaimo District 19 Sentinel 0
Duchess Park 57 Kelly Road 18
Valleyview 30 Westsyde 0
Nechako Valley at College Heights


SATURDAY

South Delta 37 Seaquam 6
Rick Hansen 49 Samuel Robertson 6
Ballenas 48 Frank Hurt 19


Gridiron's Top Five

1. South Delta Sundevils
2. John Barsby Bulldogs
3. Mission Roadrunners
4. Carson Graham Eagles
5. Rick Hansen Hurricanes




AA Varsity Game Of The Week

 
               vs
 
              vs


 


GI's Picks

Thursday

Correlieu @ College Heights: Looks like College Heights is playing the second best football in the Northern Division.  Correlieu is not of the same calibre.  GI's Pick: College Heights by 27

Friday

Carson Graham @ John Barsby: Friday begins with a huge game out West between undefeated Carson and once bitten Barsby.  The Eagles have been scoring in bunches on the ground with their province leading rusher and via the air with a talented qb/set of receivers.  Up front they are tough and athletic.  They will be looking at themselves in the mirror when Barsby lines up across from them as the rosters are very similar.  Barsby's defense is a tough nut to crack so this one will likely be close throughout.  Special teams, turnovers and penalties will weigh heavily on the outcome of this tilt.  GI's Pick: Barsby by 6

Ballenas @ Argyle: Ballenas laid a big score on visiting Frank Hurt this Saturday.  Argyle got pummelled by Carson Graham.  Look for more of the same from both teams. GI's Pick: Ballenas by 31

Holy Cross @ Sprectrum: Spectrum is making strides but not big enough to tangle with Holy Cross and their zaney jet sweep run game.  The HC defense has also been playing some statement games of late. GI's Pick: Crusaders by 39

Langley @ Robert Bateman: Langley is much improved over last year's version.  Unfortunately for the Saints, Bateman is having a similar improved year and is really running the ball hard. GI's Pick: Bateman by 22

Sentinel @ Windsor: This used to be one of the great rivalries on the North Shore.  Windsor is presently better than the Spartans in every phase of the game.  Look for a big score in this one for Windsor and a goose egg on the board for Sentinel. GI's Pick: Dukes by 40

Vernon @ Valleyview: Great match-up here!  These are clearly the two best teams in the interior with the underdog betwixt the two hosting.  I think Valleyview will score some points in this one for sure with their pistol offense.  Vernon hasn't broken a sweat yet this season.  GI's Pick: Vernon by 11

Nechako Valley @ Kelley Road: This will be entertaining.  The Roadrunners possess the size and speed in this contest and this will add up to a W for the Northenders.  GI's Pick: Kelley Road by 14

Mt. Baker @ Salmon Arm: Salmon Arm needs this game bad and will milk the contest for all it is worth.  GI's Pick: Golds by 28

South Delta @ Hugh Boyd: Well, Hugh Boyd laid a pretty good smacking on Spectrum this past Thursday.  Now the role will be reversed as the Sundevils will be flat out overpowering defensively and will score points a plenty when they have the ball in their hands. GI's Pick: South Delta by 31

Duchess Park @ Prince George: Good night PG.  Better times are ahead in 2014.  GI's Pick: Duchess by 36

Abbottsford @ Samuel Roberts Technical: Abbottsford will get another quality win this week when they tangle with SRT.  GI's Pick: Panthers by 22

Clarence Fulton @ Westsyde: The Maroons ought to place third in their division this year.  Westsyde will be another step in that ascent. GI's Pick: Fulton by 28

Saturday

Rick Hansen @ Mission: We've all been waiting for this one!  I am picking an upset.  Mission got gassed and wound up in a tough scrape with GW Graham last Friday night.  Now the Roadrunners play a balanced offense, a defense that can match up in the trenches and a team with a deeper bench.  GI's Pick: Hansen by 7

Sunday, October 13, 2013

Week 7

AA Varsity Week Seven

Week Six Wrap-Up

Big games and great games!  South Delta ran up against one of BC'sall time great high school players in Marcus Davis in full form and the scoreboard got lit-up pretty good.  The Sundevil offense  showed its firepower however amassing 20 pts during the game and moving the ball quite well through the air against the #1 ranked AAA Mt. Douglas squad.  Elsewhere, Holy Cross and Hugh Boyd played and epic, doubl overtime game with the Crusaders winning by 2 hard earned points.  Looks like HC and Frank Hurt will be playing for the #2 seed out of the south.  The Dukes of Windsor gave Carson Graham fits and a big scare in the North Shore tilt last Friday and Nanaimo District came close to an upset over Ballenas but for a couple of key turnovers.  Langley found a gear that no one has seen from them before against GW Graham in a homecoming spoiler and Duchess continued to roll up North.  Frank Hurt has quietly been putting together and excellent season and they tuned up Seaquam pretty good to press the point.  Overall, week six 2013 has set the stage for a high stakes final third of the season!

Scores

THURSDAY

Nechako Valley 39 Prince George 0

FRIDAY

John Barsby 68 Spectrum 0
Carson Graham 20 Windsor 19
Frank Hurt 36 Seaquam 13
Ballenas 33 Nanaimo District 18
Argyle 37 Sentinel 0
Robert Bateman 20 Abbotsford 6
Langley 60 G.W. Graham Langley 34
College Heights 13 vs. Kelly Road 6
Duchess Park 50 Correlieu 0


SATURDAY

Mt. Douglas 55 South Delta 20
Rick Hansen 23 Pitt Meadows 7
Holy Cross 14 Hugh Boyd 12 (2OT)


The Plus Minus

+ The offensive fireworks at the Carson-Windsor Game...Wow!
+Langley's Big Performance!
+A good first win for Argyle!
+Frank Hurt...Hornets Rising!
+Double Overtime and Alka Seltzer Sales at the HC-Boyd Game!
- No referees at the Mission-SRT Game...Come on guys, the season is so precious and preparation so intense to play these games.  Only 2 BCFC games this weekend too!  What gives?

Gridiron's Top Five

1. South Delta Sundevils
2. John Barsby Bulldogs
3. Mission Roadrunners
4. Carson Graham Eagles
5. Rick Hansen Hurricanes



AA Varsity Game Of The Week

            
           VS




GI's Picks

Thursday

Correlieu @ Prince George: PGSS, while struggling this year at varsity has surely played a better brand of ball than their Quesnel opponents.  Look for the Polars to get a win out of this one. GI's Pick: Polars by 8

Friday

Windsor @ John Barsby: Game of the week here folks.  At stake, nothing less than a lock on 2nd place in the division.  Windsor is playing its best ball of the season right now and will be coming off of a great effort vs red hot Carson that they very nearly won!  The Dukes run a maddeningly confusing offense that counters, options and screens as good as anyone in BC.  The big play off of the passing game is always a threat as well.  Defensively, these guys are smart and rarely if ever out of position.  Barsby won by a big score again on Friday vs visiting Spectrum.  Carson was in the same boat the week before.  The Dawgs got cut down to size a week ago vs a Ballenas team that Windsor beat 28-0.  Barsby can score in bushells and its defense is flat out nasty.  Look for the Dukes to play defense by hanging on to that ball first and foremost while taking advantage of aggressive Dawg D with screens, counter etc.  Special teams are a tie for both teams, but will be critical.  GI's Pick: Barsby by 8

Abbottsford @ Langley: A week ago, I'd have picked Abbey by at least one score.  Not now.  I think Langley has found something and if they can put together a solid final three games, they might sneak into the playoff dance and become a spoiler!  GI's Pick: Langley by 16

GW Graham @ Mission: This game will be all the more meaningful over the next two or three years with Mission not necessarily being the favorite.  This year however, the Roadrunners will barely break a sweat vs the Grizzlies.  The Roadrunners are faster, play tougher defense and critically, run the ball extremely well.  GI's Pick: Mission by 38

Nanaimo District @ Sentinel: Nanaimo District is a decent squad getting better.  Against Sentinel, their team speed and running game are going to make for some big points if the Spartans aren't playing their best defense of the year.  GI's Pick: Islanders by 28

Argyle @ Carson Graham: Argyle is coming off of a big win and now face the divisional co-leader Carson Graham.  Carson will be keeping its cards close to the vest in preparation for a big road game the following week.  This said, they are oozing with experience and have the top back in BC amongst their ranks.  The Eagles can finesse the Pipers easily and can run power ball at will.  GI's Pick: Carson by 36

Valleyview @ Westsyde: Valleyview has played the tough schedule this year and challenged themselves to get better.  They are playing football on a completely different level than their cross-town foes.  GI's Pick: Vikings by 35

Kelley Road @ Duchess Park: Duchess brings too many offensive and defensive weapons to the dance for their foes to handle.  The only thing that might slow down the Condors would be a foot and a half of snow on the field.  Better check that weather forcast Roadrunners! GI's Pick: Duchess Park by 28

Nechako Valley @ College Heights: Very interesting game.  The Cougars got the best Vanderhoof's finest the last time round.  The question now is, have they youthful Vikings gotten better? GI's Pick: College Heights by a hard earned 3 pts.

Robert Bateman @ Pitt Meadows: OK gang, number three and four seed coming out of the East will be largely decided at this game.  Both teams have gotten a whole lot better over the course of the season and this one will be close if the Bateman running game gets slowed down.  IFF TTHHEE Bateman running game gets slowed down. Not likely. GI's Pick: Bateman by 13

Saturday

Vernon @ Mt. Baker: Vernon is the class of the Interior this year.  Mt. Baker is getting better but is not nearly there yet against a squad such as the Panthers.  GI's Pick: Panthers by 41

Salmon Arm @ Clarence Fulton: Should be a pretty good game.  Fulton has had a full two weeks to figure out how to get some bounce after their drubbing at the hands of Valleyview. GI's Pick: Maroons by 8

Frank Hurt @ Ballenas: This game will be exceptionally close.  I think that there are a few more "athletes" on the Hornet squad than there is going to be on the hosts.  This said, the Whalers will be superbly prepared as usual and will be well rested.  If the Whalers can put the breaks on Frank Hurt's excellent zone running game, this will be close.  If not, look for a frustrating day in Parksville.  GI's Pick: Whalers by 6

Samuel Roberts Technical @ Rick Hansen: Rick Hansen has a date with divisional destiny upcoming when they play Mission for all the Eastern marbles.  In the mean time it is polish and tune-up the squad for that day.  SRT will be a great opportunity to play the bench and look at a few wrinkles.  GI's Pick: Hurricanes by 29

Seaquam @ South Delta: At the start of the season, I honestly thought this could be a game that was a bit of a coin toss.  Not anymore.  Frank Hurt mauled the Seahawks and South Delta is in a snotty mood after last week.  Look for the Sundevil offense to go wild on Saturday. GI's Pick: Sundevils by 30

 

Sunday, October 6, 2013

Week 6

AA Varsity Week Six



Week Five Wrap

South Delta survived a scare from the ever improving Holy Cross Crusaders in divisional action and John Barsby found themselve in another hotly contested Border Battle football game with the Ballenas Whalers of Parksville.  Mission, Carson Graham and Rick Hansen posted very impressive wins to round out the top five.   Elsewhere, Bateman, Vernon and Windsor played statement games against divisional competition as did the Frank Hurt Hornets.  Seaquam rebounded from last week outgunning the Hugh Boyd Trojans late in the game.  The playoff picture seems to be becoming a bit clearer with huge divisional contests occuring in the final few weeks of the season/


Mission kicked-it into high gear on Saturday!




















Scores

THURSDAY

College Heights 27 Prince George 7

FRIDAY

John Barsby 22 Ballenas 7
Carson Graham 70 Sentinel 0
Rick Hansen 54 Langley 13
Duchess Park 32 Nechako Valley 0
Windsor 40 Nanaimo District 7
Moscrop 35 Argyle 7
Robert Bateman 47 G.W. Graham 16
Frank Hurt 45 Spectrum 7

Kelly Road 32 Correlieu 7

SATURDAY

South Delta 13 Holy Cross 6
Mission 34 Abbotsford 6
Vernon 37 Salmon Arm 0
Valleyview 40 Clarence Fulton 6




Gridiron's Top Five

1. South Delta Sundevils
2. John Barsby Bulldogs
3. Mission Roadrunners
4. Carson Graham Eagles
5. Rick Hansen Hurricanes

Plus-Minus

+ Carson Graham: The Eagles are becoming an offensive machine at the right time of the year scoring 70 pts this past Friday.
+ Holy Cross continues to improve giving South Delta all they can handle in a 12-6 loss.
+Valleyview looks to challenge for top seed in the interior after pummelling Clarence Fulton.
+ Another solid win for the Duchess Park Condors up North.
+The huge crowd at the Border Battle on the Island
 
 
 

AA Game Of The Week

             
              VS
 
 
AA #1 South-Delta hosts AAA #1 Mt. Douglas at 2:00 PM Saturday, 13 October on South Delta HS Field. 

Gridiron's Picks

Thursday

Nechako Valley @ Prince George:

Friday
 
 

Friday Night Homecoming For the GW Graham Grizzlies

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Ballenas @ Nanaimo District: The Islanders host a Whaler team that played out of its skin this past Friday vs Barsby.  ND gave up 40 pts to the red hot Windsor Dukes in the early game on Merle Logan Field.  Here is the question: Can Ballenas bring a similar effort to the field this week and will Nanaimo District come in healthy with a great week of practice under their belts?  If the answer for one of these teams is yes and the the other team no, then you guessed this week's winner.  If we have positives all round, this will go down to the wire.  GI's Pick: Whalers by 14 by way of the Fade Route

Argyle @ Sentinel: Two North-Shore teams that endured consecutive lop-sided losses face off on Sentinel's field this Friday.  This week's practice will be interesting as there has to be hope in the hearts of both rosters.  I think Argyle has the stronger roster in terms of speed and size. GI's Pick: Pipers by 7

Seaquam @ Frank Hurt: This is going to be a very, very good football game.  Frank Hurt is playing some very quality football and has their zone run game really churning out the yards.  Seaquam is gelling at the right time in all areas of their game.  I think that the score will be in the high twenties, perhaps higher for each team come Friday.  GI's Pick: Frank Hurt by 2

Carson Graham @ Windsor: Another big game this week and it is oozing playoff implications.  The difference here is going to be depth.  Carson has a much deeper, larger and more skilled roster (depth wise) than the Dukes. Windsor will cause the Eagles problems with their passing game and option. The game may be kept closer if short kicks and turnovers bounce the Duke way.   Carson however, should be able to respond over and over again running the football.  The second half will be a rough one for the home team as they tire and get tenderized. GI's Pick: Eagles by 18

College Heights @ Kelley Road: College Heights is quietly putting together another quality season up in PG.  This tells me that there is a rational, methodical approach to the game at the coaching end.  Kelley Road has been hit and miss all year.  GI's Pick: College Heights by 2

Correlieu @ Duchess Park: The Condors must continue to work hard against their inner opponent.  Correlieu got beaten by a lopsided score at the hands of the Condors in early September and not much is going to be different except the uniform colours. GI's Pick: Duchess by 42

Mission @ Samuel Roberts Technical:  SRT is hosting their toughest game of the year this weekend.  The good news for them is that after Friday, things get better. GI's Pick: Mission by 38

Spectrum @ John Barsby: Spectrum has played by far, the toughest schedule in AA football.  These guys are an example of never quit.  They are getting better and they are building a foundation for years of football to follow.  The game Friday night will be the beginning of a new Island rivalry between the two squads.  Barsby is getting healthy and will be fired up for another Friday night game in front of the home fans.  GI's Pick: Barsby by 28 plus

Robert Bateman @ Abbottsford: The Timberwolves are really surging of late and will be in top form as they visit their neighbor, the Abbottsford Panthers.  Look for the Bateman running game to explode for big yards early and often in this game. GI's Pick: Bateman by 27

Langley @ GW Graham: This game will be very, very close.  If the weather cooperates, I'd hand it via the air to the Grizzlies.  Langley has some very good athletes on the roster this year so I would expect some big plays from the Saints as well.  The Homecoming crowd for the Grizzlies should make for some great atmospherics to say the least. GI's Pick: Grizzlies by 6

Saturday

Pitt Meadows @ Rick Hansen: This one is going to decide who is going to be 2nd or 4th in the conference standings when all is said and done.  Thats how important it is.  Pitt has really been coming on of late and is in good enough form to upset the Hurricanes.  If they don't overlook Pitt, Hansen has enough going for them to win this game outright.  If they don't have a letdown game. GI's Pick: Hansen by 11

Hugh Boyd @ Holy Cross: Out of the frying pan and into the fire Trojans.  Holy Cross shook up number one South Delta pretty good last week and have got to be licking their chops for a crack at Boyd.  This is make or break for the Richmond squad as a loss will jeopardize making the playoffs.  GI's Pick: Crusaders by 10

Mt. Douglas @ South Delta: And here we have it.  Last year Barsby took the Rams to the matt with the AAA champs squeaking out a W.  This year's AA number 1 vs the AAA number 1 could be equally close.  I predicted in the pre-season a South Delta win.  Am sticking with it. GI's Pick: SD by 2

 

Sunday, September 29, 2013

Week 5

AA Varsity Week Five
 



Grizzly Home Opener Was "All That!"
 
Week Four Wrap-Up



The top five took care of business again this week with Hansen coming closest to trouble in a game vs GW Graham that was tighter than many would expect or that the score did indeed reflect.  That said, Carson's score over Holy Cross by a wide margin definitely raised some eyebrows.  Windsor's 28 - 0 blanking of Ballenas and Frank Hurt's divisional win over Hugh Boyd were surely the two biggest surprises of the week. 

Elsewhere, Pitt, Valleyview and Nanaimo District had quality wins that move them closer to playoff contention and up North, College Heights pulled off the upset vs Kelly Road. 

Scores

THURSDAY

Nechako Valley 33 Correlieu 0

FRIDAY

Robert Bateman 35 Samuel Robertson 0
Mission 36 Langley 12
Valleyview 14 Salmon Arm 0
Rick Hansen 23 G.W. Graham 0
John Barsby 51 Sentinel 0
Carson Graham 35 Holy Cross 7
Clarence Fulton 36 Mt. Baker 6
Windsor 28 Ballenas 0
College Heights 18 Kelly Road 6
Duchess Park 46 Prince George 0

Pitt Meadows 28 Abbottsford 0
Nanaimo District 30 Argyle 7

SATURDAY

Squalicum (Wash.) 48 Seaquam 6
South Delta 46 Spectrum 0
Vernon 49 Westsyde 6
Frank Hurt 20 Hugh Boyd 7





GI's Top Five

1. South Delta
2. John Barsby
3. Mission
4. Carson Graham
5. Rick Hansen

Plus-Minus

+ Windsor: Another convincing victory, this time over a good Ballenas squad! The Dukes are for real folks.
+ Frank Hurt: Served notice they are competing for number 2 in their division by downing a Hugh Boyd squad that has been playing tough ball of late.
+ Duchess Park: Steam rolls another Interior Opponent.
+ Clarence Fulton: Wins by a lopsided score.
+ Vernon: Dismatles divisional foe Westsyde
- The onset of Winter Rains in September!  Not cool and time to go away.




AA Game of the Week
 
2014 Border Battle

 
@

 
Friday, 4 October 6:01 PM Merle Logan Field Nanaimo



GI's Picks

Thursday, 3 October

College Heights @ Prince George:  The Cougars upset a powerful Kelly Road squad last week and are going to be taking that momentum into the game vs a PG squad reeling from a Duchess Park clobbering.  Look for ball control and tough D to rule the day.  GI's Pick: Cougars by 16

Friday, 4 October

Mt. Baker @ Westsyde:  This will be close.  I think that the Wild are going to get a W out of this game. Westsyde is the home team and the long travel day for the visitors will figure in the game.  GI's Pick: Wild by 4

Langley @ Rick Hansen: Langley is for sure better than last year.  This said, they are not playing up to Hansen's level of ball just yet.  The Hurricanes will score by air and ground come Friday and the score could get big if the defense produces a few turnovers.  GI's Pick: Hansen by 17

Windsor @ Nanaimo: The Dukes are the most improved team in AA ball since the beginning of the season and their QB one of the best in the land.  The Islanders are in a pickle because they have to defend the deep ball and the run while keeping their defense balanced.  The key to this game will be the Nanaimo District offense.  If they can score more than 21 points this game gets close.  GI's Pick: Windsor by 16

Abbottsford @ Mission: Mission gets a bit of a free pass divisionally with this game.  The Panthers have been taking it on the chin as of late and this will be the final act of pummelling before the schedule lightens up a bit.  The Roadrunners for their part have shown some mortality allowing points on the board from last week's opponent.  GI's Pick: Roadrunners by 23

Argyle @ Moscrop (Tier 2): Argyle sure needs this game in their search for a W this year.  Moscrop has been playing some pretty good ball themselves so nothing will come easily for the Pipers.  I think that if Argyle can limit their turnovers and find the smashmouth plays within their scheme, they can prevail.  They certainly have the size and athleticism.  GI's Pick: Argyle by 7

GW Graham @ Robert Bateman: Word out of the Valley is that GW Graham played Hansen much closer than the score would indicate having their chances inside of the red zone on multiple occasions.  If this is the case, the upcoming tilt vs Bateman is darn near a toss-up.  Keys to the game are going to be Bateman's ability or inability to run the football around the edge and defend the big play vs Graham.  Graham has to limit its turnovers and decide whether or not its backfield is tough enought to dance with teams that like to hit.  Turnovers of course will figure prominently either way.  The way the Grizzlies practice and play ball this week will determine how the rest of their season goes.  If they get physical and play with the temperment of their namesake, they may even make the playoffs and do some damage.  If they hit like cupcakes, well there is always next year.  Bateman has proven they like the tough games and can compete in them.  This will springboard the Timberwolves into playoff form GI's Pick: Bateman by 10

Spectrum @ Frank Hurt: The Thunder begin a bit of a road stint against the red hot and improving Frank Hurt Hornets.  Size, speed and home field go to Frank Hurt.  Courage and a plucky attitude to the 1st year Thunder.  The Polish Cavalry charging into the German Panzers in 39 were courageous and plucky.  GI's Pick: Hornets by 24

Sentinel @ Carson Graham: Sentinel's coaches rightly challenged their players outright to practice better and grow as a team right after the Barsby game.  This week is the gut check for the Spartan Varsity.  Either they respond and find their better selves inside or they travel down the road for a rough couple of hours.  The Spartans certainly are physically capeable of playing most of the AA squads in the province.  They just have to put together all the pieces mentally.  Carson for their part is playing some devastating offense in terms of balance and their defense is a physical reflection of their offensive selves.  GI's Pick: Carson by 31

John Barsby @ Ballenas: The 2013 Border Battle is again played on a neutral field in Central Nanaimo.  The Whalers coming off of a stinging loss vs Carson got caught looking a week ahead and can now focus on their opponent and nemisis, the John Barsby Bulldogs.  Year to year since 2000, this game has always been played with great passion and pride by both teams.  Win-Loss records go out the window at kick-off and a hec of a football game breaks out.  Until last week, Ballenas has been scoring big points and really pressuring their opponents.  Barsby for their part has been playing some of the best overall defense in program history.  Special teams for both programs are points of pride.  At mid-season, both teams are going to be a bit chewed up.  How this is mitigated/handled will be an important factor come game day.  GI's Pick: Barsby by 16

Nechako Valley @ Duchess Park: Duchess has pulled away from the rest of the conference in dramatic fashion.  Right now their biggest opponent is themselves.  They have to challenge one another to play a cleaner, tighter and more polished game each week and to build on each practice.  This is essential if they are going to make more than a first round appearance in the provincial playoffs a month from now.  The Vikings are getting better each week.  They are in tough, but could cause a few problems in the game if the Condors overlook them.  GI's Pick: Duchess by 21

Saturday, 5 October

South Delta @ Holy Cross: I will be mildly surprised if HC scores a touchdown and shocked if they score two or more vs the Sundevil juggernaut.  South-Delta can do it all and dominates every category on the physical scale in this contest.  GI's Pick: South Delta by 28

Seaquam @ Hugh Boyd: Two divisional foes coming off of a loss.  This one is for playoff seeding folks.  Based on what I have seen this year, we are looking at a virtual toss-up.  Seaquam has a bit of a roster advantage physically, but Boyd is playing cleaner, more polished football.  I give this one to the Trojans based on their defense.  GI's Pick: Hugh Boyd by 2

Valleyview @ Clarence Fulton: Very good game here.  Both teams have been playing good ball and the Vikings have gone out and found very good competition to hone their play.  I think Fulton comes into the game with more momentum than their foes, but having played in less big games.  It will be tight.  GI's Pick: Valleyview by 1

Vernon @ Salmon Arm: Vernon is the beast up in the Interior and will play like it on Saturday.  Salmon Arm is a bit of a Jekyl and Hide team this year.  GI's Pick: Vernon by 22


2013 JV Mid-Season Rankings



1. Mt. Douglas
2. St. Thomas Moore
3. Vancouver College
4. Notre Dame
5. GW Graham

Honorable Mention: Lord Tweedsmuir, Prince George, Ballenas, Terry Fox, Carson Graham, New Westminster