High School Sports
An early look at fall sports. ***Updated June 11.***
By Dave Whitaker
Jun 6, 2018, 23:24

Though school is still two months away, it’s never to early to look at fall sports. Last year produced numerous memorable moments, this fall should be no exception.

Football- The Royals narrowly missed a playoff berth under Von Lassiter in his first season, losing two games by less than a touchdown. Key returns on offense include Zach Lassiter, Nykeem Farrow and Bryce Bailey. Senior wideout Torenio Davis was one of 13 seniors lost to graduation, nine of the seniors were on defense.

Will Collins, who caught a pass in the spring game against Howard, will play tight end. Jack Fernandez, who was having a solid season as a wide receiver last year before suffering a broken leg, should provide another weapon on offense. Other players to watch include DeAndre Pitts and Arkenzio Hayes.

Softball- The Lady Royals made their first appearance in the elite eight since 2011 and also broke a streak of three straight second round losses. They did this riding the arm of Bailey Odom, who pitched almost every game due to Riley Edge being injured. Pitching depth should be better as Macy Haley returned for her senior season and Edge is healthy. Two seniors graduated, and second baseman Victoria Long didn’t return, but a large freshman class will give them a JV team as well as varsity depth.

Cross Country- Head coach Shelly Cranford said at the spring recognition pep rally his goal was to have the first three-time state champion with girls cross country. It’s doable as the girls lost one senior and bring back a majority of last year’s two-time state champions including individual state champion Austin Perez and third in state Macy Moe. They’ll also benefit from upcoming freshmen including Emily Youngblood and Juliette Stevens.

The boys also lost one senior and return most of the team including individual champion Garrett Rogers. Jesse Kuck is amongst the rising freshmen boys who’ll certainly contribute.

Cheerleading- The cheerleaders had their best finish since 2010, finishing sixth at state. They lost three seniors to graduation, three others chose not to try out. But the addition of four freshmen from last year’s three-time MGMSA champion squad should give them the most tumbling depth BC has had in years. Emileigh Darden is back after missing last year with a knee injury. One loss already took place as Abby McClure will miss the season with an arm injury.

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