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TAKING OWNERSHIP: Jordan-Foster, Hitchcock ready to repeat
HITCHCOCK RETURNS TO THE COURT THIS WINTER HAVING MADE SCHOOL HISTORY A YEAR AGO, EARNING THE FIRST UIL STATE CHAMPIONSHIP (CLASS 3A) IN PROGRAM HISTORY.
This precedent was established on the heels of reaching the title game in 2021, and the Bulldogs are looking to make it three-for-three.
Tenth-year coach Christopher Jordan-Foster will bank on his team’s physicality, particularly on defense, to make that goal a reality.
“Having some really fast and physical guys on the floor helps us out a lot,” he said. “I know we’re not going to be as polished offensively compared to some teams that do it year-round, before getting our football guys back late. However, like I tell them all the time, ‘defense travels with us’.”
The stars of 2023-24 Hitchcock BasketballBradley C. Collier (VYPE)
Being a Hitchcock alumnus himself, Jordan-Foster knows a little something about the ownership his team takes in their game.
“I’m a hometown kid,” he said. “There’s something different about bringing something back to your home, which makes you have a little bit more pride in your work. I stress that to the guys, as well. It’s more personal and I want them to feel that – looking back to when you made history for your community.”
That upbringing is likely what feeds into the culture he’s brought back to Hitchcock.
“Those guys growing up together, playing alongside one another for a while has played a key factor in the growth of the culture,” said Jordan-Foster. “Also, changing systems from a zone-press to more of a full-court man was a game-changer for us. That’s kind of our M.O. – we’re going full-court every time.”
The Bulldogs will feature several returners from last year’s championship squad, including Damien McDaniel (Sr. G), Lloyd “Chubby”Jones III (Jr. PF), Kelshaun Johnson (Jr. G) and Elijah Sherwood (Jr. G), who Jordan-Foster expects to take a big step forward this season.
So, what will it take for Jordan-Foster and Hitchcock to run it back in 2024?
“First of all, it’s going to take some focus,” he said. “With a lot of football guys coming onto the court, health is a key component to this as well. I’ve had these guys for a while now, so they know what I expect from them when we head into the Winter. But, staying healthy will definitely be important to us.”
The stage is set. Now, it’s time for the encore.
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THE PLAYMAKERS: Football; volleyball stars powered by UTMB Health
The south Houston area is loaded with talented athletes who give it their all in their respective fields of play.
Welcome to the VYPE Playmakers powered by UTMB Health, where we’re highlighting five standouts from the previous week who stole the headlines.
Here are the UTMB Athletes of the Week, as the Fall season begins to heat up.
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Blake Ivy, Clear Springs Football
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
Last week, the big offensive tackle for Clear Springs, senior Blake Ivy, officially announced his commitment to Texas A&M.
As a four-star college recruit, and the No. 9 ranked OT in the Class of 2024, Ivy had plenty of top-tier programs to choose from--namely, LSU, Texas, and Texas A&M--but ultimately landed on moving to College Station at the conclusion of his tenure at Clear Springs.
Ivy will certainly make a worthy addition to the Aggies, given the considerable speed and athleticism he's showcased with his 6-foot-4 frame. He will be relied on heavily by Clear Springs as they pursue another district title and more this Fall.
Lloyd Jones III, Hitchcock Football
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
The Hitchcock Bulldogs are one of the State favorites for Class 3A in Greater Houston. The ‘Dogs knocked off Refugio 43-36 on the road in a hostile environment. Leading the way was QB Lloyd Jones III, who threw for 143 yards and three scores, while rushing for 160 yards and another two TDs. Next up is East Bernard.
Caryme Molina, Pasadena Volleyball
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
Pasadena volleyball is enjoying tremendous success prior to heading to district play. The Eagles coach Carmen Martinez has her girls playing well and tallying a 17-6 record. Leading the way is her daughter Caryme Molina, the sophomore setter who is quarterbacking the team.
Caleb Bell, Texas City Football
Doug Brown (VYPE)
The Texas City Stings knocked off Friendswood, 23-20, in OT in the first game of the season. Fullback Caleb Bell had a gritty performance, as he was banged up most of the second half. Bell grounded out 71 yards, 14 coming in OT to put the game away.
Luke Webb, Deer Park
Jamey Wright (VYPE)
Deer Park's Luke Webb has been a nightmare for offenses to prepare for, and even more so when the teams take to the field. That's something several collegiate programs have recognized, but the senior DL has chosen to join Oklahoma State once he graduates this year.
As one of the commanders of the Deer's defense, Webb has already made an impact for the group, as they come off a big win in their season opener against La Porte.