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By BUBBA KAPRAL
WINTERSVILLE -- Andrew Connor has created a culture of winning at Indian Creek -- and doing so in class fashion.
The Steubenville Central product embarks on his 15th year at the Redskins' helm fresh off another successful campaign, one in which Creek posted a sparkling 8-2 record and punched a ticket into the OHSAA playoffs. The Redskins fell victim to backyard rival Steubenville in Week 11, in a game which Connor's charges acquitted themselves competitively.
Creek has qualified for the state playoffs four of the last six seasons. If the Redskins are going to make it five-out-of-seven, they will be doing so with a team heavy on youth.
Connor saw the majority of his skill performers on offense pick up their diplomas. Nine seniors dot the 58-player roster.
No gloom and doom here, however. Connor again exudes optimism about his team's chances in 2017 while reflecting on a memorable 2016.
"We grew up quickly last year after our loss in the opener against Cambridge. We fumbled on four straight possessions in the fourth quarter. That is not us," Connor said. "We regrouped to win seven straight games. We lost a lot of talent from last year but that success we had last year should have a positive impact this year. Our kids have worked hard and are excited about the season."
Connor must replace standout quarterback Greg Wade and explosive running back Robert Coppa in addition to several other key components. But what the Redskins will be missing in skilled-position firepower will be offset by a terrific offensive line.
"I love our offensive line. It is a group that has a chance to be special. They talk football. They spend time together and they love being linemen," Connor said. "Offense starts with what is up front and we have a very good one. Our line gives us the ability to be a 50-50 balanced team."
Wade was a dandy dual-threat quarterback, capable of big plays via his legs or arm. But Connor believes quarterback will be a positive this year.
Brennon Norris (6-0, 160) got his feet wet last year in varsity action and appears primed to become the Redskins' field general. He is a letter-winning junior.
"Brennon came in against Beaver Local when Greg got hurt and we were losing. He did a fantastic job in rallying us to victory," Connor noted. "Brennon has good poise and is a really good passer."
Junior letterman Shane Zrinyi (6-1, 175) and sophomore Sam Mazar (5-10, 160) provide depth under center.
Connor will likely utilize a posse of running backs.
Jakih Scales (5-9, 130) may get the first call at tailback. He is a junior letterman. Also in the tailback discussion are junior letter-winner Mitch Wukelic (5-7, 155) and promising sophomore letterman Trevor Fante (6-0, 175).
Fullback duties will be shared by junior letterman Cody Allan (5-10, 190) and sophomore letterman Tyler Smarrella (5-9, 180). Logan Wilson (5-9, 180), a two-year junior letterman, will also be part of the running back rotation.
Creek has a dandy at tight end. Aaron Robinson (6-2, 195) is a capable pass-catcher and dominating blocker. The rugged senior is a three-year letterman. Senior letterman Shawn Allen (6-0, 190) is a top-flight backup.
Connor has a plethora of wideouts to call upon, three named Eakle.
Devon (6-0, 180) is a senior three-year letterman. Devin (6-0, 175) is also a three-year lettermen while Derrick (6-1, 180) is a junior letter-winner.
The Eakles will have strong support landing passes. Junior lettermen Richie Gualtiere (5-11, 175) and Matt Mamula (6-4, 200) will see extensive duty with the receiving corp as will sophomore letter-winners Brandon Fleming (6-0, 155) and Klay Cottis (6-2, 160). Zrinyi and Mazar can also play receiver.
The offensive line is anchored by senior tackle Andy Waggoner (6-1, 220). He already has three letters to his credit and should be one of the premier lineman in the Ohio Valley in his final go-round. Waggoner is one of the Redskins' captains.
Waggoner will be joined at tackle by classmate Ian Belt (6-0, 205). Belt returns as a regular with two letters to his credit.
Evan Coppa (6-1, 250) is a dandy at guard. He is a two-year letter-winning senior. His running mate at guard will be Josh Harvey (6-1, 270). He is a junior letterman.
Creek boasts a stud at center. Trent Bolek (6-3, 275) is a two-year letter-winning junior.
The Redskins also possess quality depth on the O-line in the likes of junior Luke Allen (6-4, 290), junior letterman Nathan Truex (6-0, 255) and sophomore Shawn McClurg (5-10, 230).
Former Creek star Joe Hammack is again cast in the role of offensive coordinator. Former Shadyside High grid and mat standout Sean Grinch returns as defensive coordinator. He will align his always-tenacious unit in a 4-3 alignment.
Waggoner and Wilson are returning starters at ends. They will get relief from Belt, sophomore lettermen Parker Rodgers (5-9, 190) and Brandon Hiles (5-9, 190).
Harvey and Coppa are stalwarts at defensive tackle. Bolek and Allen will serve as backups.
Robinson and Devin Eakle will be forces at outside linebacker while Cody Allan will man the middle. Fante will also prove a factor at linebacker.
While already a solid group, the linebacking unit could have been magnificent if not for tragedy.
Senior Keith Maple will miss his second straight season after being severely injured in a tragic crash two years ago. He earned all-star honors as a sophomore starter at linebacker. He is serving as one of the Redskins captains this season.
"Keith is the epitome of what a captain should be. He has never complained about his situation. He was a special football player and is a special young man," Connor said.
Gualtiere and Zrinyi will be the starting cornerbacks. Wukelic, Fleming and Cottis will also see time.
The deep zones will be a Creek strong point. Derrick Eakle returns as one starter and will be joined by Devon Eakle, who is making the switch from linebacker.
Creek will get a major boost on both sides of the ball come Week 6. Will Hopkins (5-10, 185) must sit out five games after transferring from Steubenville Big Red. He is ticketed for action at running back and defensive back.
Hiles will handle the kicking duties.