Mules host Comets in season opener

Wahkiakum and Naselle high school football teams will resume KM Trophy competition this Friday, 7 p.m., in Cathlamet.

The two teams haven't met since 2005.

"The Comets have some big linemen and good skill players, so it should be a battle," Mule Coach Eric Hansen predicted Tuesday.

As for the Mules, Hansen describes a team of extremes: The Mules have good leadership and good returning players, but they're very young and lack depth at most positions.

"We have 34 players turning out, four seniors, 9 juniors, 12 sophomores and 9 freshmen," he said. "We may end up starting some sophomores and even a freshmen or two."

Seniors include Joel Fudge, who returns at quarterback, tackles Ben Doumit and Stian Vik, and middle linebacker Blake Anderson, who is working at tight end, fullback and halfback.

Returning juniors include three year starter Ty Bain, a 230 lb. guard, and lineman Mitch Moonen.

The Mules lost their leading running back, Joel Niccolazzi to an ankle injury at their summer camp. Sharing time with Anderson will be Luke Thomas and Bryce McClain. Joel Fritzie and Wyatt Parker, a freshman, will see action at wide receiver, and Zach Schneider will be wingback in the Mules' Wing T offense.

"It's going to be iron man football," Hansen said. "Almost all of them will have to go both ways."

Hansen feel Toutle Lake, who lost in the state championship game last year, is the favorite for the league title. Adna has a strong program, and the Mules, Napavine, and Mossyrock should be fighting for the third and final berth to the playoffs. One can't count the other teams out, Hansen added. The Central League should show lots of balance this year.