11 Aug 2013 HEBER SPRINGS: Panthers strong on offensive, defensive lines
Conference: 2-4A
Coach: Steve Janski
’12 Record: 7-5 (4-3)
Last fall, Heber Springs had a tough time defending its 2-4A crown from 2011. The Panthers finished fourth in the conference and 5-4 overall on the season, but the post-season ignited some- thing in the team.
The Panthers won two road playoff games before falling at Highland. In many ways, 2012 could be considered more successful than the Panthers’ conference championship season in ’11.
Senior Michael Kramer returns at quarterback, along with Chandler Marquardt at running back. Two seniors lead the way at receiver: Dylan Bly and Cooper Lawrence.
501 Football Team honoree Nate Hills brings size and power to the offensive line at guard. “Nate has a great work ethic and is very unselfish,” Coach Steve Janski said. “He has great heart and is the offensive line anchor.”
Senior Jason Hammons is a three-year starter on the offensive line, and junior Zach McCormick returns at center.
The Panthers have several spots to replace this fall on defense, returning only three starters. Hills and senior Cody Bernhardt lead the defensive line. The Panthers return no starters at linebacker, but juniors Ian Lowe and Alldon Skelton are ready to step up. Juniors Avery Ray, Dezmond Sanchez and Brandon Mills fill the secondary.
Schedule
Sept. 6 at Pottsville
Sept. 13 Harding Academy
Sept. 20 at Gentry
Sept. 27 Lonoke
Oct. 4 at Stuttgart
Oct. 11 Marianna
Oct. 18 at Newport
Oct. 25 Southside Batesville
Nov. 1 Clinton
Nov. 7 at Dollarway
501 Football Team 2013 –
Nate Hills
Nominated by Coach Steve Janski
Classification: Senior
Position: OL/DL
On the field: Great work ethic, very unselfish, great heart.
Off the field: Eagle Scout, great personality.
Community work: Services to our school and community through service projects.
Sportsmanship: Thinks of his team first.
Expectations: All-state, college bound.
