Here's a brief look at two Houston-area private schools looking to do some damage in TAPPS:

HOUSTON CHRISTIAN

Nickname: Mustangs
Colors: Blue and White
2007 record: 10-4 (TAPPS Division II semifinalist, lost to Dallas Christian, 48-28), 6-1 in district
Coach: Mike Johnston
Returning lettermen: 20

Houston Christian made another deep run into the playoffs, but fell short of a state title in 2007. Now in TAPPS Division I, the Mustangs are looking to build upon their strong season.

Chris Smith returns after an injury-plagued season last year, and will make an impact on both sides of the ball as a running back and a free safety. Tight end Matt Vaughan can become a valuable target for quarterback Garrett Nodorf as well as a good linebacker.

The Mustangs have other players that can play effectively both ways, including linebacker/offensive guard Skip Harpold, tight end/linebacker Sean Bell and receiver/cornerback/kicker Chris Collins.

ST. THOMAS

Nickname: Eagles
Colors: Red and White
2007 record: 3-7, 0-3
Coach: Donald Hollas
Returning lettermen: 21

Former Rice and NFL quarterback Donald Hollas takes over as head coach for the Eagles, who had a disappointing 2007 campaign. But some key returning players and an expected improved offensive playbook could again make them a tough team in the area.

Conor Mills helped lead the St. Thomas rugby team to a state title, and he plans to be tough to bring down as a running back. Fullback Clayton Arndt and tight end Kyle Rynd will provide strong blocking for the running game. But quarterback Logar Stryk will have to step up after playing last season on the junior varsity team.

Defensively, St. Thomas has a plethora of linebackers back, including Paul Rodgers, Chance Taylor and Kyle Willard. The secondary will be led by defensive backs Colin Bassett and Jeff Kelly.

Subscribe to this comment's feed