2006 Clinton Preseason Peek by Matt Eshelman (8/10/2006)
The senior members of the Clinton High School football team have their hopes set on a third playoff birth in four years.
Second-year coach, Chris Hammer, also expects Clinton to improve from last years 3-6 record. He said, “The offense is going to put up points. John Smith [starting tailback] is returning this year and he is talented.” Coach Hammer also pointed out that Dustin Hubble will take the helm at quarterback for the Maroons this season. Hubble is a sophomore who moved to Clinton earlier this year.
Hammer is happy with the turnout for the strength and conditioning workouts. He said, “There’s about 50 kids that show up for conditioning per day.” Hammer expects that the team will have 10 seniors to lead the squad.
The Maroons season schedule has been altered for the first time since Clinton has participated in the Okaw Valley Conference. This year Clinton will open the season with Meridian, however Clinton has finished the season with Meridian in all season prior to this year.
Two-a-day practices are underway already this week for the Maroons as they prepare for Okaw Valley Football. The Maroons will open their season on Friday the 25th, as will all other teams in Illinois.