‘Breakfast club’ hopes to go out as winners

By JEREMY SELLEW
jsellew@yourmvi.com

For third-year Ringgold head coach Darwin Manges, the formula for his program is starting to come to fruition and he’s hoping this is the season it all comes together.
The Rams return nine starters on offense and eight defensively, and Manges thinks his team is ready to make some noise in a loaded Big 8 conference.
“It’s simple. We’re going to go as our seniors go. When I took over the program, they were part of that breakfast club. The guys that showed up at 6 a.m. to work out,” Manges said. “The key for us will be staying healthy and our depth.”
The Rams went 1-7 last year, but that’s in the past. Now it’s time for Manges and the team to see the fruits of their labor.
“Our line is really strong. That’s where everything starts for us,” Manges said. “Those five guys love each other and love playing together. That’s what you want from that group.”
The Rams finished second at the Pitt big-man camp, behind only powerful Massillon, Ohio.
“We were pretty impressive and those kids took pride in the way they performed down there,” he said. “I think we’re going to surprise some teams in our conference this season.”
Leading the way for the line will be seniors Dante Compagni (6-4, 265) at right tackle, Jacob Frahlich (5-11, 275) on the left side and Jacob Meyer (6-0, 235) at right guard. Filling out the remainder of the line will be Jerry Mease (6-foot, 225) at center and Logan Simko (5-9, 225) at left guard.
“All of those guys are members of our 1,200-pound club in the weight room and they’re the most vocal unit we have on the field,” Manges said. “They’re leading the way for this team.”
The entire Rams’ backfield returns, led by senior quarterback Brayden Fine.
“Fine is one of our top athletes and he’s there because we want the ball in his hands on every play,” Manges said. “He’s a 4.4 guy, he’s making all the throws and making the right reads.”

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