This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2013, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Through the crash of helmets, grunts and whistles, Park City is preparing for a fresh start.
With 85 players broken into different squads, coach Mike Shepherd is excited about the upcoming season. Shepherd, who retook the coaching reins after stepping down in 2004, sees a lot of potential on the practice field.
His message is simple — football is supposed to be fun — and he thinks with the big turnout, he'll be able to fashion a competitive team for the fall.
"We just don't know what we have," Shepherd said. "There are some really good players coming out, but they're young. We're still looking to see what we have."
Key positions are locked up with junior Ian Moritz resuming his quarterback role. Running a hybrid fly formation, Moritz has the vision to make the throw and the powerful legs to run through unexpecting defenses.
"He's not a super rah-rah guy," Shepherd said. "Ian leads in a positive way, and the kids believe in him. He's got a great combination of talents, and we hope he is up for the challenge."
Returning linebacker Konnor Andersen has been hitting the weight room to bring the size and confidence the Miners need in the defense. With combination wide receiver/running back Alec Wing, Shepherd believes Park City will take advantage of the fresh start.
"We have enough quality kids to be competitive," Shepherd said. "It's going to be a real fun season." —
Park City Miners
ASSIGNMENT • Class 3AA North
LAST YEAR • 1-9 overall, 0-5 Region 10
KEY RETURNER • Linebacker Konnor Andersen (6 foot 2, 230 pounds) is a physical beast. He is key to stopping the run stop.
PLAYER TO WATCH • Quarterback Ian Moritz's quiet leadership under center will continue as the junior does the play calling for the Miners.
BIGGEST HOLE • Size on the line. Shepherd has the players but not the size he needs up front on both sides of the ball.
NEED TO KNOW • Shepherd is returning as coach after stepping down in 2004. Bringing in his old coaching staff should give Park City a new look and energy.