PIGSKIN PREVIEW: Experience on Eagles' side

The Clovis Christian Eagles went from no wins in Jason Swann’s first season as head coach in 2007 to five wins last season.

A CCS alumnus, Swann believes the sky’s the limit this year.

“I’m so excited about opening day, because I know how good we’re going to be,” he said.

The Eagles (5-4, 1-2 8-man District 4 in 2008) return most of their starters from a year ago on both sides of the ball.

In addition, Swann noted they finally have a balance between classes, with five seniors, five juniors and five sophomores on this year’s roster.

“We just need to continue doing what we did last year,” Swann said. “And even though we lost every game two years ago, it carried over and we played a lot better last year.

“Those kids were freshman and sophomores (in 2007) are now juniors and seniors.”

Swann said the Eagles scored enough points to be competitive last season. They simply had a hard time stopping opponents.

He said the team also has more overall size than in the past.

“We need our defense to show up,” he said. “Last year, we put up points against pretty much everybody except Floyd. We just had a hard time stopping everybody.”

The Eagles hope to be able to throw effectively this year behind returning starter Kevin Naceanceno, still only a sophomore. Swann said the Eagles are looking for a 55-45 run-to-pass ratio this year after going about 65-35 last season.

Junior Mike Urioste will line up in a one-back set much of the time behind Naceanceno, and gives CCS a legitimate threat on the ground.

District 4 has been competitive since it was formed three years ago, sending two teams to the state semifinals each season.

“We feel if we can get out of our own district, we’ll have a chance to win a state championship,” Swann said.

AT A GLANCE

Clovis Christian Eagles

8-man District 4

Coach: Jason Swann (3rd season)

2008 record (district): 5-4 (1-2)

Returning starters: 6 on offense, 5 on defense.

Top players: Kevin Naceanceno, So., QB; Mike Urioste, Jr. RB/S; Cordy Wilhoit, Sr., TB/OLB; Scott Steelman, Sr., WR/OLB.

Schedule

Aug. 28 at Gateway Christian 7 p.m.

Sept. 4 Springer 7 p.m.

Sept. 11 Valley Christian 7 p.m.

Sept. 18 at Menaul 4 p.m.

Sept. 25 Foothill 5:30 p.m.

Oct. 2 Mountainair 7 p.m.

Oct. 16 at Melrose-x 7 p.m.

Oct. 23 Floyd-x 7 p.m.

Oct. 30 Logan-x 7 p.m.

x-Denotes district games.