The Oracle

Issue date: 9/8/09 Section: Sports

Media Credit: Brittney Wirth-Petrik An assistant coach goes over a play during practice

Media Credit: Brittney Wirth-Petrik The football team practices formations and positions in practice.

As the fall sports teams start up their seasons there is one sport that is hoping to make some noise in the MIAC. Something the Hamline football team hasn't done since the mid '90s.

Head coach Jim Good is entering his third season at the helm of the football team. Good has had time to establish his basic philosophy and systems which is encouraging for the Pipers on the field.

"It's exciting to have a group for three years. Our kids have matured and understand our expectations of them," Good said.

The Pipers were 2-8 last season but they let many games slip away in the second half.

"Bottom line is we have to finish this season," Good said.

Other than big losses to St. John's and St. Olaf the Pipers lost their other six games by a combined point total of only 17 points, including two one-point losses.

"When you come into a program that hasn't been successful for a number of years you gotta change the culture," Good said. "You have to make the kids believe they can win."

A key loss that the team will have to deal with is that of quarterback Josh Leary, class of '09. Two quarterbacks have distinguished themselves but coach Good still hasn't made a decision on who the starter will be. Sophomore Adam Meyer and junior Connor Sathre are the two competing for the job.

Good says the Pipers return a strong offensive line which will help whoever gets the quarterback position a great deal. Juniors Derall King and Alex Garza will help out the running game with their strength and size. Sophomore Brennan McKeag also established himself as the starting center last year and returns with experience.

Junior Alex House and sophomore Tim Queck are talented receivers who can make plays with their speed. Both have better than average hands.

"There are more players to work with which makes better competition," House said. "We want to be competitive in every game and establish ourselves in the conference."

On the defensive side of the ball the Pipers return many key players which makes their defense a strong suit. They also have a very strong linebacker crew with five players rotating in four spots. The crew consists of seniors Mike LaBore and Brady Lorenzen, juniors Pete Usset and Josh Bain and Sophomore Corey Olson.

"We have to finish this year, finish plays, drives and games," House said.

The Pipers will kick off their season on Sept. 12 at home against Martin Luther with two more home games to follow. The homecoming game this year will come against St. John's on Oct. 10.

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