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The Ooltewah High School ninth-grade football team is the District 5 6A football champion for the fourth year in a row, after completing an undefeated region schedule.
“Our team tries hard and our coaches train us well,” said Roberto Paulino, a team captain.
Fellow captain T.J. Davis said the successful season gives him high expectations for next year’s varsity Owls, which will have skilled players from the ninth-grade team.
Ooltewah High School’s ninth-grade football team keeps its streak alive with a fourth straight region championship. From left are head coach Jon Massey, linebacker and tight end Austin Dunn, offensive guard and defensive end Jackson McClain, linebacker and tight end Will Purnell, fullback and defensive end Roberto Paulino and running back and safety T.J. Davis.
The Owls defeated McMinn County, Walker Valley, Bradley County, Rhea County and Soddy-Daisy to earn their fourth straight title.
Head coach Jon Massey, also an assistant varsity coach, said many schools don’t offer ninth-grade football, but it gives students a chance to prepare for junior varsity and varsity football their next three years in high school.
“It’s just hard for 14- and 15-year-olds to compete with older players,” Massey said. “It’s a different element from middle school to high school.”
He said the school’s administration and varsity football coaches encourage the ninth-grade program.
“We’re lucky to have that support,” Massey said.
He said varsity head coach Benny Monroe wants his new players to know terminology and play sets.
“He wants to make sure they understand as freshmen how to win,” Massey said. “That’s practicing hard, playing hard and playing to win.”
Massey said this year’s team members were on time to practice and paid close attention during practice.
“That’s a reflection of good parents,” he said. “It’s just a good bunch to coach.”
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