By Vivian Veto, LO’T Sports Co-Editor
Moline football has had an incredible season, going undefeated in the WB8 and having a streak of three straight shutouts in regular season competition. Head coach, Mike Morrissey has led these athletes to victory after having a rough spring season. Coach Morrissey believes that “Normalcy helped, as far as the structure of the season and routine. Our experience in the spring was really valuable.”
As well as putting up some incredible scores, Moline has been on top for rushing yards, receiving yards, PAT, field goal, and passing yards. Senior Matthew Bailey has found the endzone three times and racked up 362 receiving yards. For his final season Matthew says has enjoyed “the competition days at practice the most. It allows us to get better and use the tools we have been learning throughout the season and before, as well as have a little bit of fun.”
Another key player in Moline’s success is junior running back Riley Fuller, with his 723 rushing yards placing him in second in the WB8. Riley hopes to “go far in playoffs this year and hopefully next year.”
Another player that caused a storm was senior running back and linebacker Gavin Grace, hitting players like a bulldozer and shoving his way into the endzone for 11 touchdowns. Gavin believes, “One thing that helped our team success is just everyone trusting each other to do their job and having confidence in everyone to make the play when the opportunity is given.”
Racking up more points for Moline is senior kicker Caroline Hazen, with 40 points. The Homecoming queen, three sport varsity athlete, and first female football player at Moline would like future students to “Make sure to always be confident in yourself and surround yourself with people who will support and encourage you. Don’t be afraid to go out and try new things!”
Finally, senior quarterback Alec Ponder, who transferred from Alleman last year, has a total of 1,335 passing yards. Alec has settled into his position on the team through “Friendships with the guys and them trusting me.”
In playoff action, Moline beat Hampshire 48-42 last Friday, October 29, and hopes to continue its winning streak against the Willowbrook Warriors in Villa Park, IL this Friday, November 5. Good luck, Maroons!
