Nipomo football looking for return to the playoffs

Posted: Aug 17, 2012 3:00 PM by Andrew Masuda
Updated: Aug 17, 2012 9:01 PM

After missing the playoffs the last two years, the Nipomo High football team is focused on returning to the postseason in 2010.

The Titans finished 4-6 last season and 3-3 in the Los Padres League, barely missing the playoffs.

Russ Edwards returns as the Titans' head coach. With the offense still discovering itself in camp, Edwards says the team will rely on its defense to keep games close until the offense puts points on the board. "I think right down the middle of our defense is where our strength is. And as we grow as an offense, hopefully our defense will keep us in some games early," said Edwards. The team returns several defensive linemen, All-League defensive back Ian Wilkinson and linebacker Clayton Freitas.

Taylor Apetz returns to handle kicking duties for the Titans after earning Second Team All-League honors last season.

Every running back from last year's team graduated, so Tommy Saenz will step into the backfield after playing linebacker last year.

After serving as a backup last season, Luke Shurtleff is the team's starting quarterback. "We're a small team in numbers-wise, but we're working hard and we like each other a lot. So we're working hard together and trying to push for as many wins as we can," said Shurtleff, who completed 2 of 5 passes last year. He describes himself as more of a pass-oriented quarterback.

Los Padres League champion in the 100 and 200 meter dash Josh Sundberg has joined the Titans as a wide receiver and kick returner. "We can actually become a great team actually by the first game against against PV. And hopefully we can make the playoffs this year," said Sundberg, who hopes to be a key offensive player for the Titans.

The Titans open the season Friday, August 24 at Pioneer Valley. They lost on a last second field goal to the Panthers to open the 2011 season. Nipomo plays at Arroyo Grande on August 31 before opening its home schedule against Carpinteria on September 7.