Central embarks on a tough stretch

Central's boys basketball team brought back nearly its entire starting five this season.

That experience paid off in its opening win over Riverview Gardens, and likely will play an important role in the Tigers' grueling schedule to start the season.

"My guys definitely love a challenge," Central coach Derek McCord said, "and we're definitely going to get one."

Tonight the Tigers face a strong New Madrid County Central team with a shot at the Farmington Tournament finals on the line. A win likely will pit the Tigers against Hazelwood Central, a top St. Louis team.

From there, the Tigers will head to the Sikeston Tournament onTuesday to face Blytheville, Ark.

"This is one of the best Blytheville teams I've seen in the last 10 years," McCord said.

Central will then get a look at Poplar Bluff on Thursday. The Mules are coming off a fourth-place state finish last season and sport a big lineup with a pair of 6-foot-8 players. One of those 6-8 post players is Tyler Hansbrough, rated as high as fifth nationally among juniors.

Saxony Lutheran varsity premieres at home

Saxony Lutheran's boys varsity basketball team debut tonight at home against Chaffee.

The Crusaders won 18 games last season in their first year playing junior varsity and freshmen teams. This year Saxony Lutheran will play in the Mississippi Valley Conference.

Only six home games are scheduled for Saxony Lutheran, which plays at St. Andrew Lutheran Church across from Arena Park on Cape Rock Drive.

Neels is area's top lineman

Darren Neels of Central was chosen as the top lineman for the SEMO North Conference at the 58th annual Poplar Bluff Letter Club Gridiron Banquet.

Caruthersville running back Jimmy Jackson won the Carr Trophy given to the top player in the SEMO Conference.

Changes at Sikeston,Valle

Charlie Vickery recently announced his retirement as football coach at Sikeston.

In another coaching change, Valle Catholic coach William Palmer recently stepped down. He will be replaced by assistant Judd Naeger.