Looking at football's future

With so much attention being paid to varsity football teams right now, it is always interesting to take a moment to look at the future varsity players. The future varsity football players that will be playing before packed stands and representing Valley football in the state playoffs are playing now in junior varsity and freshman football.

Colony and Palmer's freshman teams scrimmaged Tuesday at Colony to cap the freshman football season for both teams.

Colony appears to have a fine freshman squad that showcases a powerful offensive line that is capable of opening big holes in the middle of the field. Dominick Bellotte is a force on the defensive line, stopping running backs in their tracks and crushing quarterbacks who attempt to pass.

Colony is bringing another Magner through the ranks. Rhett Magner plays quarterback with the capability to manage the offense and run with reckless abandon. Sound familiar?

"I'm really happy with the play of our kids this year," said Colony coach Howie Marks. "They have made a big improvement since the beginning of the season."

Palmer also has a good freshman squad focused around Palmer's style of football, running. The freshman squad does offer a different facet to the offense with big tight-end Aaron Lopez. The 6-foot-2-inch freshman could be a tremendous pass threat for Palmer teams in the future.

Although the teams still look a little rough around the edges, freshman football has helped them refine their skills and prepare them for future moments of glory in front of big Valley crowds.