Football fans around Indiana finally got to see their favorite high school teams in action on Friday, as scrimmages took place.
Four local teams stayed in Hamilton County for their scrimmages, with the other four going on the road. Noblesville faced off against North Central at the re-named Beaver Field, giving Miller fans a chance to see the team under the supervision of new coach Justin Roden.
Guerin Catholic hosted Danville at the Eagles Nest, where Tom Dilley is set to begin his fifth season as coach of the Golden Eagles.
Also at home were Hamilton Heights, where first-year coach Jon Kirschner led the Huskies in a scrimmage against Anderson. Carmel played an intra-squad scrimmage at Carmel Stadium, where John Hebert will begin his fourth year as the Greyhounds’ coach.
As for other county teams, Westfield scrimmaged at defending Class 6A state champion Ben Davis. Jake Gilbert began his eighth year as coach of the Shamrocks, while former Noblesville coach Jason Simmons is the new head coach of the Giants.
Hamilton Southeastern traveled to perennial powerhouse Bishop Chatard. This marked the debut for new Royals head coach Adam Morris. Fishers also headed south, to Lawrence North. Rick Wimmer began his 13th season as the Tigers coach; he has been there since the program started in 2006.
Last but certainly not least, Sheridan traveled west to Crawfordsville for its scrimmage. Larry “Bud” Wright is back again for the Blackhawks, and this will be his 53rd season as head coach. Wright has 409 victories at Sheridan, and 410 overall.
Next week marks the opening week of high school football in Indiana. Be sure to read the Reporter next week for previews of all the teams.
Noblesville junior wide receiver Jayden Barrett makes a run to the outside. (Kent Graham)
Senior defensive back Jake Fancher (15) grabs an interception during one of the Warriors’ offensive series. Also pictured is senior defensive back Brian Ponder. (Richie Hall)