27 Aug 2011 HS Lakeside: Rams look to expand on 2010 success

The Hot Springs Lakeside Rams are back.

After a one-win 2009 season, second-year coach Jared McBride and the Rams (7-4) bounced back in 2010 with the team’s first winning season and playoff berth since 2003.

“Our success has a lot to do with our senior class,” McBride said. “We have guys who have seen both the bad and the good and are motivated to help this program grow.”

Looking to expand on its success, Lakeside introduces a new defensive coordinator this season in Ryan Wallace, formerly from Arkansas Tech University. The Rams held opponents to 23 points per game in 2010 and look to improve on those numbers with the team’s new defensive scheme.

Although Lakeside returns most of its starters, the quarterback position could be a toss-up between senior Logan DeRossier (6-0, 180) and sophomore Garrett Carson (6-0, 180). “Both of these men are working hard for that position right now, and I’m looking for good things from both of them,” McBride said.

Two-time all-state receiver Ajalen Holley (5-10, 185) led the team in tackles and receptions in 2010. The senior recorded four interceptions, returned two kickoffs for touchdowns and returned one punt for a touchdown. He also caught seven touchdowns and ran for three more.