LEBAM – Nestled in a grass practice field off the highway, the Pe Ell/Willapa Valley football program can be heard crashing pads and whistles blasting high pitches.
The longtime combination between the two high schools has resulted in consistent playoff trips while the numbers have always hovered in the 30s.
Still, there were two identifiable traits with the Titans: Speed and strength.
“How it translates to the field, we’ll see,” assistant coach Dave Strozyk said. “We’re hoping we can do OK.”
PWV will open the regular season against new 11-man program Winlock. Here are three takeaways from a recent padded practice.
Experience up front
Four seniors – including returning all-C2BL lineman Conner Keeton – make up a strength of the Titans up front. The other expected starter is a junior that aims to keep returning quarterback Nate Fluke upright.
In team drills against the second-string defense, there was a noticeable size difference.
“We have to be really good up front in order to compete,” Strozyk said.
King, Cody Strozyk makeup deadly combo
Gone is one of the best tailbacks in the C2BL in Blake Howard, but Strozyk is expected to take over the bulk of the carries out of the backfield. He proved to be difficult to bring down during team drills.
Add in wideout Blaine King, a returning all-area honoree, and there are plenty of combos for plays on the edge.
“Once we’re on the outside, no one is catching us,” King said. “If you let us go, we’re gone.”
Coach Strozyk hopeful for front-seven
With an impact player on the line, Keeton, and at linebacker – Cody Strozyk – the defensive unit for the Titans has some pieces that Coach Strozyk likes.
King is expected to anchor the defensive backs. Strozyk led PWV in tackles last season at 84.
“We’re physical,” Cody Strozyk said. “We’re gonna hit you like we’re the biggest team in the world.”
