Northview makes history

It was not exactly the Music City Miracle, but Northview Middle School’s first play from scrimmage on Aug. 19, 2004 will always be remembered.
The Cougars began their football existence at the Middle School Jamboree held at Seymour High School. When quarterback Tyler Haggard got the ball, he stretched back and lofted it to Tyler Ellis, creating a very special moment in Northview history. It was the first pass thrown, tipped and caught for a first down on the opening play.
“It was a pretty exciting play,” said Head Coach David Loy.
The 30-yard pass was also remarkable in that Ellis was guarded by two defensive backs, both of which jumped for the ball just as he did.
Loy is not expecting a play like that every time his team begins a game. His main goal for the season is to teach fundamentals and sportsmanship.
“A lot of them haven’t played football before,” said Loy. “We want to teach them how to play the right way.”
There are about 31 players on the roster and everyone that comes out is allowed to play. “They’re pretty excited,” said Loy. “And we’re proud of them. They’re doing well and getting better every practice. “
Although Loy has coached basketball, he is a first-time football coach. There are six other coaches. Mike Swank teaches at the middle school along with Loy. Volunteers include Daniel Dudley and Michael Etherton, who both played football at Sevier County High School, and Cody McCarter, Dustin Coon and Jarvis Thomas
“We’re basically trying to teach fundamentals,” said Loy. “Obviously we want wins, but we’re trying to give them character as well.”
“We worked hard with them all summer, had conditioning two a days a week and fall practice began earlier this month,” said Loy.
Northview Middle School has been around since 1951. They have girls’ and boys’ basketball, volleyball and cheerleading. Football has been recently added to the list through the action by the community and school board.
“The school Booster Club as well as school board member Stanley Moore have played significant roles in starting up the team,” said Loy. “Jim Davis, our principal, also had a lot to do with it.”
“The parents are very involved,” said Loy. “We also have a Pee-Wee and Grasscutter program in the Northview Youth Athletic Association. A lot of parents have gotten involved.”
The Cougars currently use a practice field by the primary school for practice. Loy hopes that the field being built for the team will be finished in time for a few home games to be played there this season.
“The field is not quite ready to go,” said Loy. “It will have Bermuda grass. It will also have stands that are in the process of being built.”
Eight games are currently scheduled for the Northview Cougars opening season. Most of the home games will be played at Sevier County High School. The next game will be Sept 2 at 7 p.m. at Rush Strong.

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