Gridders wrap up winning season

On Friday the Phoenix football squad closed their 2009 season with a 35-0 loss at the hands of the perennial conference powerhouse Clearview Clippers.

On this most pleasant of evenings -- cloudless skies and temperatures in the 70s -- many appreciative and supportive football (and band) followers were in attendance to witness the final game of the season. More than 30 seniors from the football team, cheerleading squad, and marching band were recognized for their skill and commitment prior to the game.

The game opened with Oberlin doing a superb job of containing Clearview's all-conference running back, Anthony Hitchens. Linbackers Sev Holsworth and Devin Martin made several good stops, along with the stellar line play of Jaron Hicks, Terrance Randleman, Anthony Barnhill, Dorian and Duane Pretlow, who prevented big holes from opening for the Clippers running backs in the first half.

Stymied with their usually strong ground attack, the Clippers turned to the air routes where they did find some success. After the Oberlin defense forced a fourth down attempt for Clearview, a long pass over the top of the Phoenix secondary netted the Clippers not just a first down, but their first touchdown as well.

Down 7-0, Oberlin forced another turnover on Clearview's next possession. Behind the running attack of Gib Harris, Aaron James and Hicks, the Phoenix moved the ball to the 1 yard line. A very questionable fumble call - after Oberlin's runner's forward progress was already stopped and an apparent whistle by one referee but not the others - resulted in the ball being returned to Clearview. The fumble would be one of five turnovers on the night for the Phoenix.

Frustrated at the turnovers and the constant pressure from the Clipper attack, Oberlin gave up two quick scores late in the half - the second a gadget play where Hitchens threw for a touchdown to push Clearview to 21-0 at the half.

Oberlin continued to move the ball in the second half, but additional turnovers thwarted any scoring opportunities. Despite the loss, coach Dave McFarland was filled with praise for his team, and in particular the seniors on his squad.

"This group of kids has worked extremely hard for their entire careers. They've helped bring a program that was winless in their freshman years to one that was playing for a share of the conference championship this evening. While today's game didn't turn out the way we'd hoped, my hat's off to these guys for making a very real commitment to this team and to each other. I believe it has helped get this program back on its feet and really looking forward," he said.

Oberlin's Fall Sports Celebration is planned for Thursday, Nov. 12 at Oberlin High School. All are welcome to attend and recognize the accomplishments of the student-athletes.