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The Woodbridge Vikings, a team that kicked down doors and took no prisoners on their way to the 2007 Virginia state championship know they won't surprise anyone this year.
Led by all world running back DeAntwan "The Rocket" Williams whose powerful between the tackles burst and breakaway speed laid waste to opposing defenses last year, the Vikings are hoping that teams underestimate their other playmakers on offense as well as defense.
I had a conversation with Vikings Head Coach Robert King on "The Rocket", his team, their upcoming schedule and key players to watchout for.
Coach K, everyone wants to know about "The Rocket." How's he doing?
"The Rocket is fine and ready to go. He pretty much carried us thru the playoffs last season. It's been a pleasure to coach him and he's just taking it all in. We look to feature him this year of course and defenses know what's coming at them but stopping him is another story."
How many players are coming back from last years team?
"This year we have six returning starters on offense and eight on defense. We have two good lineman returning in Jay Weatherington (6' 4' 280) and Austin Brown (6' 2" 265). Both are Division 1 prospects and will play offensive line and share a defensive guard position."
What about your quarterback situation?
"It looks like Frank Buckley will be our starter but Darius Smith will push him. Frank got in a few games last year but didn't get in a lot because of Jake. We wanted to keep him as a backup on varsity just in case our starter went down. Frank is big (6' 4" 190) and has a strong arm. Teams will be surprised because we will be able to throw the ball."
What about some of your other playmakers on offense?
"Well Demetrius Quarles is a standout player. He plays free safety on defense and we will line him up in the slot as a receiver on offense. Kevin Tyrra will be in the backfield with Rocket."
How do you feel about the upcoming schedule?
"Across the board we're going to be tested. We meet Highland Springs (Richmond) on the road which will be a tough test. Osbourn I hear is looking good. Potomac always has fine athletes and I look for Forest Park to be really good. It's not going to be a cakewalk."
Do you and the team expect another championship run this year?
"I told the kids that they should have higher expectations this year. We advanced to the state championship last year on a team sprinkled with sophomores and juniors. They know much is expected from them this year because they set the bar high. We're going to take this game by game."
This Friday the Woodbridge Vikings open up their 2008 campaign against Riverbend at home.
DCMetrosports.com will be following them on their quest for a state title appearance.
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