Summer season begins with 7-on-7

Dion Clisso/PrepsKC

By Dion Clisso PrepsKC Managing Editor
Posted: June 9, 2010 - 12:06 PM



The game may change once the pads go on, but Lawrence Free State’s Desmond Wyatt is already making an impact for the Firebirds during 7-on-7.

Wyatt made several big catches against Shawnee Mission South on offense then became a force when he stepped over to the defensive side of the ball. The junior knocked down several balls and seemed to thinking along with South’s quarterback.

Even though it is just the summer, Wyatt’s performance Monday night at South might have served notice to rest of the Sunflower league. Wyatt said he was just trying to focus on his routes and try to stay aggressive.

“This is a fast paced scrimmage,” Wyatt said. “I’m trying to work on both. I play both ways so I need to work on both. I need to get better on my route running and my coverage skills.”

When the season starts, Wyatt could be a player to watch in the Metro. The junior could be one of the weapons Free State coach Robert Lisher will use to battle for the Sunflower league title.

While Free State looked impressive, South took a while to get going. The Raiders struggled in the early part of the 7-on-7 game on the offensive side. South did get better with its timing and that is what 7-on7 is all about.

Senior Derrick Crandall said the Raiders were trying a lot of new players in the 7-on7 games and looking to find some consistency during their summer work.

“We need to run our routes right,” Crandall said. “Defense needs to get better and know what they are doing. It’s different in 7-on-7 but once we get the pads on it will be a little bit different but we will get it done.”

While South is working in a lot of new players, St. Thomas Aquinas had the luxury of a returning starting quarterback in Richard Davila. The senior started for the Saints last season and looked sharp in the game with Olathe North.

Davila said he really enjoys 7-on-7 because it gives the team a chance to work together in a lower stress environment.

“I always look forward to it in the summertime,” Davila said. “There are some people who say it isn’t anything to look forward but I always love it. You come out and play and get to know everyone who is new on the team. It’s good for the timing for the routes especially for the new guys.

“You can always look forward to make mistakes and get them out early. It’s always relaxed and laid back for us.”

Dion Clisso is the Managing Editor of PrepsKC. To reach Dion send e-mail to dion@prepskc.com.