After opening the District 22-3A season with a big win over Tarkington last year, a key injury midway of the next game sent the Shepherd Pirates' season in a downward spiral.

With their starting junior quarterback out for the remainder of the season, the team did not record another win in 2006.

But this is a new year and hope abounds as the Pirates have a healthy quarterback and are armed with nine offensive and seven defensive starters among a whopping 23 lettermen.

Second-year Pirate head coach Shane Hanks is anxious to put the disastrous '06 season behind him and has reason to be optimistic with his ball club.

"Last year we were starting to come around when our quarterback Seth Keith went down with a serious injury and it took its toll on us," said Hanks. "But he's fine now and we're working hard in practice and I feel good about the direction we're heading."

Keith noted that his ballclub is comprised largely of juniors and seniors and will look to their leadership in being a steady influence throughout the season.

Among the 9 returning offensive lettermen are quarterback Keith (5-9, 165) and all-district running back Chaz Caddie (5-7, 155), who rushed for over 1,200 yards last year. Also in the fold is all-district guard Karl Koether (6-2, 250, sr.) along with junior tackle Brandon Coogler, (5-11, 255), who was an honorable-mention all- district performer.

Others being counted upon to help out in the Spread and I-formations that the Pirates will employ include: Keandre 'KiKi' Shaw (WR); Jared Wilson (WR); Jordan Wood (TE); Robert Smith (C); and Scott Hoard (G).

The Pirates have speed and size on their size within their 3-3-5 defensive alignment and plan to utilize both with their seven returning defenders. The projected defensive team includes Curtis Lane (noseguard); Kelley O'Brian (DE); Michael Walulik (DE); Jordan Wood (LB); Clint Riddle (LB); Cody Lane (LB); Keith (OLB); Lee Riddle (OLB); Caddie (cornerback); Bryan Wells (cornerback) and Raghib Ellisor (free safety).

The Pirates punting duties will be handled by Keith, who averaged over 30 yards a kick last season. Jordan Wood will both place kick and kick off. The deep snap duties will be the responsibility of Riddle and Smith.

In summing up his thoughts about the upcoming District 22-3A race, Hanks acknowledged that the Pirates are capable of having a promising year.

"I truly believe that we're going to be right in the mix of things," said the second year head coach. "Splendora has to be considered a favorite because of their size and experience and Liberty and Coldspring are right there, too. But the (Shepherd) kids believe in themselves and I think we are very capable of contending for a playoff spot."



The Shepherd Pirates coaching staff includes: Ryan Ferguson (offensive coordinator/QBs); Shea Bolton (RBs/special teams); Dusty Calhoun (off. line); Ricky Fernandez (wide receivers); Jeff Newton (defensive line); Kirby Dorman (tight ends); Brian Anderson (linebackers) and Rob Dants (trainer).

The Pirates will open the 2007 football season Friday, Aug. 31 in Winnie versus the defending District 24-2A champion East Chambers Buccaneers. Kick off is 7:30 p.m.

Shepherd's first home game will be Sept. 7 with Diboll.

Last year the Pirates edged the Lumberjacks in an exciting come-from-behind 47-46 thriller.

The Pirates' District 22-3A opener will be at home Oct. 12 versus Tarkington.