Tuesday, February 9, 2010

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2009 Highlights DVD Now Available

Only $30! Order TODAY!

Sure, you can watch the highlights in the tiny Web player below — but now you can watch them on the big screen while sitting on the couch! That's right...for the first time, I decided to compile a season's worth of highlights (177 highlights of the 2009 season) to a convenient DVD for you and your family to enjoy for years to come.

The highlights total over 36 minutes of footage and include clips from the following games: Livonia Churchill, South Lyon East, Grand Blanc, Milford, Walled Lake Western, and Livonia Franklin. Each game marks a new DVD chapter so you can quickly jump from game to game.

If you would like to order your copy, just download the order form and send it in with your payment. Depending on the success of this offer, I may or may not offer this service/product in the future, so please help support the cause. Thanks and GO EAGLES!

2009 All-County Team Announced

The Press & Argus announced their All-County teams on Sunday, Dec. 6. Congrats to the following players:

2009 Player Awards Announced

The 2009 season Player Awards were handed out at the banquet Nov. 10. In addition to the over 30 Academic Awards on the varsity alone, the following athletes were also honored:

KLAA All-Conference
First Team: Max Nystrand, Matt Kenwell, Danny Richmond, and Phil Annese
Honorable Mention: Taylor Garner, Zach Walker, Nick Long, and Jordan Martin

Offensive Player of the Year: Matt Kenwell, Phil Annese

Defensive Player of the Year: Zach Walker

Special Teams Player of the Year: Adam Shiller

Most Valuable Player: Danny Richmond

Athletes of the Week: Matt Kenwell, Danny Richmond

Coaches Award: Jimmy Munofo

Iron Man: Jake Harmon

Most Improved: Brandon Brassfield

Congratulations, boys! Go Eagles!

Varsity: Week 9 (10-23-2009)

Hartland falls to Livonia Franklin, 8-19

Hartland's season came to end Friday night after losing to Livonia Franklin, 19-8. With a 4-5 regular season record, Hartland does not qualify for post-season play.

The Eagles struggled offensively for most of the night. And although they were able to move the chains and produce first downs, their drives usually ended with punts. Franklin did a great job defensively — holding Hartland to only one score.

Being it was Senior Night, it was fitting that a couple of seniors put some points on the board. First, it was Matt Kenwell scoring his last touchdown as an Eagle on a one-yard run late in the game. Then it was Max Nystrand who caught a pass from Danny Richmond on the two-point conversion.

Even though the season ended on a loss, there are many things to look forward to next season. There were a number of juniors that contributed this year — including starting quarterback, Danny Richmond and his favorite targets Phil Annese and Matt Poches. Then there's the incoming JV players who went 6-3 this season.

To all the seniors...thank you for all the great memories. GO EAGLES!

Live Game Updates via Twitter

If you can't make the game, camp-out on HartlandFootball.com or follow me on Twitter. I'm now posting live game updates via my HartlandToday Twitter account — which are then fed directly to HartlandFootball.com. Very cool.

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JV: Week 9 (10-22-2009)

JV drops last game to Livonia Franklin

The JV team finished their season a respectable 6-3 after losing their last game to Livonia Franklin, 14-35. If anyone wants to forward information on who scored for Hartland, please send me an e-mail to info@hartlandfootball.com or use the feedback form. Thanks!

Freshmen: Week 9 (10-22-2009)

Freshmen Team Goes Undefeated

Thanks again to the anonymous person who supplied the recap below.

The Hartland Freshmen team finished a perfect 9-0 Thursday night after defeating Livonia Franklin, 45-16.

The scoring started with Marcus Inman's 53-yard touchdown run over the left side on his first carry of the year! The two-point attempt was no good and the Eagles led 6-0. Franklin came right back with a 56-yard TD pass and a two-point conversion to make the score 8-6 — the first time all season Hartland trailed their opponent. Hartland came right back with a 32-yard TD run by Stephen Milarch. The second two-point attempt was no good, but Hartland still led 12-8.

After a Ryan Hill interception, Milarch connected with Brett Shirley for a 60-yard TD, Alec Bain kicked the extra point and Hartland went up 19-8. However, just before the half ended, Franklin connected on a last second 30-yard TD pass. Their two-point conversion was good and Hartland found themselves in a battle going into half-time leading 19-16.

Freshmen kicker, Alec Bain (shown here running in a two-point play vs. Howell) kicked a 16-yard field goal in addition to making three extra points in Hartland's 45-16 win over Franklin. Bain has also made field goals of 27, 33, and 40 yards this season.

With their undefeated season on the line, the defense came out inspired. Led by Andrew Skowyra and Austin Lenart, they shut-down Franklin's offense. The defense started the scoring with a safety. And on their next possession, Bain kicked a 16-yard field goal and Hartland increased their lead to 24-16. After the Hartland defense forced Livonia to go three and out, Hartland scored again with another touchdown pass to Shirley. The point after kick was good and Hartland led 31-16.

The defense was flying around with big hits that could be heard up in the stands. One hit caused the Franklin ball-carrier to fumble — allowing Milarch to alertly pick-up the loose ball and run 21 yards for the score. The defense applied constant pressure on the QB. With the Franklin QB on the run, Anthony Villar was able to intercept a pass and return it down to the Franklin 28-yard line. Josh Orlando had the honor of scoring Hartland's last touchdown of the season when he scampered around the left side for a 28-yard touchdown. The extra point kick was good — capping-off Hartland's perfect 9-0 season.

Congratulations, boys! What a season. We are ALL looking forward to watching you play in the coming years. Go Eagles!

Varsity: Week 8 (10-16-2009)

Hartland Loses to Walled Lake Western, 33-40

Hartland took another one on the chin Friday night — losing to Walled Lake Western, 33-40. Hartland moves to 4-4 on the season with one game left (home this Friday vs. Livonia Franklin).

Senior Max Nystrand put on quite a show — catching five passes for 113 yards; scoring four touchdowns (although two were called back); returning a kick 80 yards; and running over a DB on his only rush of the night. Not bad — but knowing Max, he would have traded all that for a team victory.

First Quarter
Other than Nystrand's electrifying kick return that ultimately setup an Adam Schiller field goal, WLW dominated the first quarter. WLW 14, H 3 at the end of the first.

Second Quarter
Phil Annese brought the Hartland crowd to their feet with a tremendous 94-yard kick return for a touchdown. Schiller's point-after kick was good. Two Hartland touchdowns were called back on penalties — one long pass reception to Nystrand and the other on a reverse to Nystrand. Right before the half ended, Danny Richmond connected with Nystrand on a 15-yard pass for a touchdown. Hartland's attempted two-point play pass failed. WLW also scored twice in the second quarter and led at the half, 26-16.

Third Quarter
Hartland started the third quarter scoring with Richmond again connecting with Nystrand — this time a a 78-yard wheel route for the touchdown. Schiller's point after kick was good. WLW scored next with a run. Matt Kenwell added another Hartland score on a 2-yard counter on the left side of the line. Schiller's kick was good and at the end of the third quarter WLW still led 33-30.

Fourth Quarter
WLW answered Kenwell's TD with one of their own in the beginning of the fourth quarter — increasing their lead to 10 with 9:31 left. Hartland was able to drive down close, but could not punch it in and settled for a 33-yard Schiller field goal. WLW's offense continued to produce first downs and ultimately ran-out the clock for the 40-33 victory.

Hartland's play-off hopes are slim and it will first depend on if we win our last game vs. Livonia Franklin. If we do then our play-off points will be tallied by the MHSAA. If it's determined that our 5-4 record was against more difficult teams, then we get more points and we might make the cut. Stay tuned.

JV: Week 8 (10-15-2009)

Hartland Improves to 6-2

The JV team improved to 6-2 on the season after defeating the visiting Walled Lake Western Warriors, 21-9 Thursday night. I was not in attendance, so if there was a parent or fan that can provide a brief summary (like the someone did for the Freshmen game below) I would be happy to post it here. Thanks!

Freshmen: Week 8 (10-15-2009)

Freshmen Remain Undefeated with 33-0 Victory Over Walled Lake Western

Thanks again to the anonymous person who supplied the recap below.

The Hartland Freshmen (8-0) started slow in the first quarter against a good Walled Lake Western (5-3) football team. Brett Shirley started the scoring with a 12-yard TD pass from Stephen Milarch. Alec Bain kicked the extra point and the Eagles led 7-0. The cold, windy and wet weather contributed to early miscues from both teams, but Hartland was able to capitalize and with good field position. On a crucial 3rd down, Ryan Hill (in for Milarch who was injured) completed a 12-yard pass to Zach Hauk. Hill later ran 32 yards right through the middle for Hartland's second score. The two-point conversion was knocked down and Hartland led at half time 13-0.

To start the second half, Hartland again scored quickly on an interception by Anthony Villar who took it 36 yards to the house. Bain's extra point kick was good and Hartland went up 20-0. The defense held with strong pressure from Austin Lenart, Sam Poekler and the entire defensive line. A Walled Lake punt was blocked and Spencer Wright picked up the loose ball and ran it 32 yards to the 10 yard line. A 3-yard pass to Villar resulted in another touchdown for Hartland. The two-point conversion try was no good. Hartland ended the scoring when Hill ran over the right side for a 39-yard TD run. The extra point was good, 33-0. Once again the offensive line of Marcus Inman, Jonathan McGrath and Adam Wiley opened up big holes for big gains.

It was Hartland's eighth win on the season and its third shut-out. Next week Hartland travels to Livonia to play Franklin for the last game of the year...and a possible undefeated season. GO EAGLES!

Varsity: Week 7 (10-9-2009)

Hartland wins in OT; defeats Pinckney 29-28

Hartland improved to 4-3 on the season after defeating Pinckney, 29-28, in a dramatic overtime win before a surprisingly packed (considering the weather) homecoming crowd.

Similar to the Milford game two weeks ago, Hartland rallied from behind in the final minute of regulation to score. Here's how the game unfolded:

After controlling the ball for almost the entire first quarter, Pinckney scored first with :49 seconds left in the quarter to go up 6-0 after their extra point failed.

Hartland's Matt Kenwell answered back with a touchdown run at the beginning of the second quarter and with Adam Schiller's kick Hartland went up 7-6.

Pinckney scored again at 7:48 in the second quarter. They successfully converted on a two-point play and the score was Pinckney 14, Hartland 7.

After trading possessions — including a Taylor Garner interception — Hartland marched down the field to score right before the half. A pass reception to Phil Annese and a long scramble run by Danny Richmond set the stage for a great TD run by Kenwell who dove for the end zone marker for the score. Schiller's kick was good and the score was tied at 14.

Pinckney attempted a field goal with :01 remaining before the half ended — but Hartland blocked the kick. Half-time score was Hartland 14, and Pinckney 14.

Like the first quarter, Pinckney controlled the ball most of the third quarter — missing an attempted a field goal late in the third. Hartland was unable to score in the third quarter and the score remained tied at 14.

Pinckney went on another clock-consuming drive and eventually scored on a 3-yard run with 3:57 left in the game. They decided to go for two and punched it in to go up 22-14.

This is where the similarities to the Milford game came into play. Quarterback Danny Richmond was tasked with leading his team down the field in the last minutes of play to pull out a victory for the Eagles.

With very determined runs by Kenwell and Richmond, Hartland was knocking on Pinckney's door with about a minute left to play. Then, after mishandling the snap, Richmond averted disaster by picking up the loose ball and running up the left sideline for the score. Hartland needed to go for two to tie and send the game into OT. Kenwell's number was called and with the help from his studly offensive line he delivered big time with a run off the right side. Game was tied at 22.

Hartland kicked the ball deep and with just a few seconds left in regulation Pinckney took a knee and we were headed to overtime.

Pinckney went on offense first in OT and scored. However, they decided to go for two — but this time they were denied when Hartland's defense stuffed the Pinckney running-back short of the goal line. Pinckney led 28-22, but Hartland still had their shot at the end zone.

After a few short plays from the 10 were unsuccessful, Hartland was looking at a 4th and goal on the 6 yard line — this was do or die. The crowd was on their feet and people lined the entire fence bordering the field. Danny Richmond took the shotgun snap, faked to Kenwell, then threw a perfect 6-yard pass to a wide-open Phil Annese on an out route to the right corner of the end zone. TOUCHDOWN! The TD tied the game at 28 — all we needed was the extra point kick from our red-hot kicker, Adam Schiller to win the game. The kick was up...IT WAS GOOD! Hartland wins! The Little Big House went crazy as the players celebrated their 29-28 overtime victory on the 50-yard line.

What a way to remember their homecoming game — especially for the seniors. Congrats, men! You pulled-off another come from behind win — this time adding a little overtime drama.

Go Eagles!

JV: Week 7 (10-8-2009)

Hartland falls to Pinckney, 15-44

The JV team slips to 5-2 on the season after losing an away game to the Pinckney Pirates Thursday night. I was unable to attend this match-up, but if there was a parent or fan that can provide a brief summary I would be happy to post it here.

Freshmen: Week 7 (10-8-2009)

Freshmen Still Undefeated with 41-20 Win Over Pinckney

Thanks again to the anonymous person who supplied the recap below.

The Hartland Freshmen team remains undefeated beating a determined Pinckney team 41-20. The Eagles scored quickly on a 4-yard TD pass from Stephan Milarch to Zach Hauk. Hauk had a "pick six" on Pinckney's next drive as he took the interception 55 yards for the score. Two extra point kicks by Alex Bain and the Eagles led 14-0.

The Eagles quickly scored two more touchdowns via passes from Milarch; a 12-yard pass to Anthony Villar in the right corner of the end zone and a 22-yard pass to Andrew Skowyra in the left corner of the end zone. Add Bain's two extra-point kicks and Hartland went up 28-0 early in the game.

Hartland finished their first-half scoring with a 3-yard run by Josh Orlando over the left side. The offensive line did an outstanding job with pass protection and opening up holes for the backs. The defense also played a very strong first half, but allowed a Pinckney score just before the half ended. The score was 35-8 at the half.

Pinckney came out strong in the second half and scored back-to-back touchdowns — which closed the gap to 35-20. Hartland then moved the chains with a very nice drive, finished-off by a 2-yard QB sneak by Milarch, which ended the scoring.

Once again, a total team effort by the 7-0 Eagles.

Hartland's next opponent has yet to be determined. As I understand it, it is based on the varsity standings in each division after Friday's game. As it stands now, we would face Walled Lake Western as they are 4th in the North division and Hartland is 4th in the West division. Stay tuned!

Varsity: Week 6 (10-2-2009)

Hartland loses to Howell, 13-48

As a junior running back last year, Matt Kenwell had a great game rushing the ball against Howell (pictured above). This year, the senior continued his personal rivalry when he scored on an 80-yard touchdown run in Friday's loss to Howell. (File photo credit: Josh Blasier)

In each of the three games leading up to Friday's match-up with Howell, Hartland's defense has given-up over 40 points — putting a lot of pressure on the offense to put-up just as many points in order to register a win. Unfortunately, Friday night's game was no different — Hartland's defense gave up 48 points to the visiting Howell Highlanders and the offense was unable to keep pace.

Hartland's Matt Kenwell electrified the crowd on Hartland's first possession with an 80-yard run down the left sideline for the score. Adam Schiller's point-after kick was good and Hartland led 7-0.

It didn't take long for Howell to match that score, and then some. Hartland almost went on the board again right before the half when a would-be 42-yard touchdown reception by Phil Annese was called back on an "ineligible man down field" penalty was called on Hartland.

Hartland's only other score came in the third quarter when Matt Poches snagged a 4-yard slant pass from Danny Richmond (5-16 for 81 yards and 3 ints). Schiller's extra point kick failed.

For additional information on the game as it happened, see the posts (below this story) or click here to read them all at once. For each game I post drive-by-drive updates to my Twitter account which feeds directly into this page on HartlandFootball.com.

Hartland will host the winless Pinckney Pirates this Friday for homecoming.

Go Eagles!

JV: Week 6 (10-1-2009)

Hartland's JV shuts-out Howell, 40-0

JV quarterback Tony Annese (#15), running-back Travis Spears (#16), and the big offensive line prepare for another Hartland score.

Led by quarterback, Tony Annese, the Hartland JV team improved to 5-1 on the season after a convincing 40-0 victory over Howell. Annese scored three first-half rushing touchdowns — giving Hartland a commanding 19-0 lead going into half-time.

Hartland continued their dominance in the second half with Annese scoring his fourth rushing touchdown at the end of the 3rd quarter. Then, after controlling the ball for much of the 4th quarter, it was Travis Spears who punched one in from the 3-yard line with 4:05 remaining. Big Brad Maschke ran over Howell players for a two-point conversion — making the score 34-0. But Hartland's scoring wasn't complete until backup quarterback, Zach Coykendall, busted a simple QB sneak wide open for a 42-yard score!

The defense again played a tremendous ball game with big hits being heard all around the stadium. Keep it up, fellas!

Hartland travels south next week to face Pinckney. Go Eagles!

Freshmen Gold: Week 6 (10-1-2009)

Freshmen Gold defeats Howell, 36-6

Freshmen quarterback, Stephen Milarch, runs for a 1st down in Thursday night's victory over Howell.

Special shout-out to the anonymous person who supplied the recap below. Thanks!

In a match-up of two undefeated teams, Hartland (6-0) defeated Howell (5-1) 36-6 Thursday night in Howell. The scoring started when Howell fumbled Brandon Giglioti's 38-yard punt and Hartland recovered on the 1-yard line. Ryan Hill then scored on a 1-yard run up the middle. Alec Bain's extra-point kick was good. Both defenses played strong until about 3:00 minutes to play in the first half when a 30-yard pass from Stephan Milarch was tipped to Andrew Skowyra who ran it in 14 yards for Hartland's second touchdown. Again, Alec Bain converted the extra point. Hartland started the second half up 14-0 when a Anthony Villar took a pitch and went around the outside for a 60-yard TD. Alec Bain's extra point put the Eagles up 21-0.

Once again Hartland's defense played a strong game with Josh Orlando, Ryan Hill and Andrew Skowyra each notching an interception. The defense held Howell's offense scoreless through three quarters. In the fourth quarter, Dane Bourdo took a screen pass from Milarch and ran it in 12 yards for Hartland's 4th touchdown, the extra point was good and Hartland's lead was 28-0. Howell came back and scored but their two-point conversion was stopped short. Spencer Wright finished the scoring with a 2-yard run off the right side. Bain picked-up the missed snap and ran it in for the two-point conversion. Final score: Hartland 36, Howell 6. Hartland remains undefeated and travels to Pinckney next week. Go Eagles!

Freshmen Blue: Week 6 (9-30-2009)

Freshmen Blue defeats Walled Lake Western, 63-12

Chad Selby scores one of his four touchdowns early in the first half in Wednesday night's victory over Walled Lake Western. Selby also had two interceptions and recovered a fumble for a safety.

After leading 54-6 at the half, Hartland went on to win the game 63-12. Sources tell me that Chad Selby scored four touchdowns; Trevor Sieman scored two; Tyler Zauel, Clay Garner, and Nick Kryskowski scored one each. It was an impressive defensive night for Hartland — forcing a safety and racking-up three interceptions (Selby had two and James McMahon had one). I was also told that Trevor Seiman threw some huge blocks in the landslide victory. Keep rolling, boys!

Freshmen Gold travel to Howell Thursday for a 4:30pm match-up with the Highlanders.

Varsity: Week 5 (9-25-2009)

Hartland beats Milford in Thriller, 42-41

It's games like this that make us love high school football so much. These memories will last a lifetime.

Wow! This was one of the best displays of "never quit" that I've ever witnessed in high school football.

Hartland was down by two touchdowns with under two minutes to go in the game when things started to just click. Quarterback, Danny Richmond (on his way to a 347-yard passing night) scrambled left, then right before hurling the ball down field to a leaping Phil Annese. Annese (7 catches for 144 yards) came down with the ball and was determined to get in the end-zone by weaving his way through the Milford defenders. TOUCHDOWN! (see video #1707) That 55-yard score and the extra point put Hartland within one touchdown of at least a tie with :53 seconds left in the game. Milford's crowd was in shock, Hartland's crowd whipped into a frenzy with many wondering, "could we actually pull this off." So, naturally Hartland went for the onside kick hoping to get the ball back into Richmond's red-hot hands one more time. Matt Kenwell kicked a great one-hopper that bounced off a Milford player and into the hands of Aaron Matthyssen (see video #1708). Could it be...

The onside kick recovery gave Hartland another chance to score with :53 seconds left. Richmond went back to work — hitting Annese twice and Max Nystrand once — taking us down to the two-yard line. The crowd on both sides of the field were on their feet. A moment later... TOUCHDOWN! Kenwell scored his third TD of the night. Hartland immediately called time-out to discuss the "kick to tie vs. go for two and the win" options. The Hartland crowd wanted the win, and the jacked-up offense took the field — then Milford called timeout. By this time, the enormity of what just transpired in the last 60 seconds — and what might in the next 21 seconds — really started to sink-in with the Hartland fans. Many of them came out of the bleachers and lined the fence down at the end zone. Hartland again took the field. They lined up in a double-tight right looking like they were going to power the ball off the right tackle. Nope...Poches on a reverse to the left. There was NO WAY Poches was going to come up short on one of the biggest plays of his high school career — running over three Milford defenders on his way to crossing the goal line. The place went nuts! (video #1713)

Milford's last chance was halted when Taylor Garner intercepted a Milford pass with :09 seconds to go to ensure the victory. Richmond took a knee and Hartland completed the most unlikely and memorable comebacks in recent history. It was a defining moment for the Eagles — a much-needed lift after recent back-to-back losses. Great job, boys!

For more detailed game highlights (as I reported them live on Twitter) click here. See more information on following me on Twitter below.

For additional game coverage, read the full story by Jeff Theisen of the Daily Press & Argus.

Hartland hosts the 4-1 Howell Highlanders this week.

Go Eagles!

JV: Week 5 (9-24-2009)

JV holds-off Milford, 19-13

Hartland's Zach Coykendall, who started in place of the injured Tony Annese, threw for three touchdown passes in the 19-13 victory over Milford. Coykendall first hooked-up with Jimmy Francis on a 20-yd touchdown reception, then went on to throw two more touchdowns — both long receptions to Travis Spears. Milford's last attempt to take the lead late in the game was cut short when Hartland's Justin Charneski intercepted Milford's quarterback. Hartland improved to 4-1 on the season.

Freshmen Blue/Gold: Week 5 (9-24-2009)

Freshmen defeats Milford, 52-0

The Freshmen team continued their outstanding play on both sides of the ball — easily defeating visiting Milford, 52-0, and moving to a 5-0 season record. I have not yet received word on who scored for Hartland (someone e-mail me a brief scoring recap to info@hartlandfootball.com). I did hear that Alec Bain kicked a 40-yard field goal. Wow! Great job boys!

Varsity: Week 4 (9-18-2009)

Brighton handles Hartland, 47-13

Quarterback, Danny Richmond scored both of Hartland's touchdowns, but it was the offensive power of Brighton that was the star Friday night. The opening kick-off set the tone for the night when a Brighton return man took it the distance for the score.

Hartland needs to bounce-back in week five after taking two on the chin from the likes of Grand Blanc and Brighton. Hartland's defense has given up 92 points in the last two games, but only put-up 27.

Hartland travels to Milford (3-1) this Friday, then Howell the following week.

Go Eagles!

JV: Week 4 (9-17-2009)

JV Loses to Brighton, 13-24

Tony Annese and Trey Conner scored rushing touchdowns for Hartland in the loss, but Brighton's powerful offensive ground-game was too much for the Hartland defense. Hartland moves to 3-1 on the season and play host to Milford next week.

Freshmen Gold: Week 4 (9-17-2009)

Freshmen Gold Crushes Brighton, 57-0

Freshmen Gold easily handled Brighton Thursday afternoon — routing them 57-0. I came to the game with one minute remaining, so I didn't get a chance to record who scored for Hartland. UPDATED 9/18/09 @ 7:38am: Thanks to one of the parents attending the game, I was able to post the brief game recap below.

Hartland's defense was outstanding. Brighton had only two first downs all game — one in each half. On offense, Hartland racked-up 57 points for the second week in a row. Seven Hartland players scored: Ryan Hill had three rushing TDs; Josh Orlando and Dane Bourdo scored one each on the ground; Stephen Milarch threw for three touchdowns... one each to Anthony Villar, Andrew Skowyra and Brett Shirley; and Alec Bain kicked a 23-yard field goal to go along with his seven extra point kicks.

Freshmen Blue: Week 4 (9-16-2009)

Freshmen Blue Loses to Howell, 0-14

The Blue team was unable to get on the board Wednesday night, dropping their first game of the season to Howell, 0-14.

Varsity: Week 3 (9-11-2009)

Hartland Falls to Grand Blanc, 14-45

Hartland lost their first game of the season to their new KLAA rival, Grand Blanc, 45-14.

Matt Kenwell scored in the 1st quarter on a 13-yard run and again in the 3rd quarter on a 2-yard run. Arron Matthyssen and Max Nystrand played outstanding all-around games, and Jake Owstroski continued to tear it up on defense. Ben Willey provided the hit-of-the-night when he leveled a Grand Blanc punt returner in the 1st quarter (see video #1653).

For additional game coverage, read the full story by Rick Shepich of the Daily Press & Argus.

Hartland travels to the Dog Pound to face Brighton this Friday.

JV: Week 3 (9-10-2009)

JV Improves to 3-0; edges Grand Blanc, 38-32

Running back, Travis Spears, scored first for Hartland on a rushing touchdown in the 1st quarter. Quarterback, Tony Annese scored the second on a keeper in the 2nd quarter. Annese hooked-up with wide receiver, Jimmy Francis, for a 32-yard touchdown reception right before the half — making the score 19-10. Annese went back to work in the 3rd quarter by connecting with Francis on a long pass play down to the 10 yard line. Annese capped-off that drive with another QB-keeper for a score on the very next play. The score was 25-10 until late in the 3rd quarter when Annese scored on a one-yard QB sneak to increase the Hartland lead to 32-10.

Grand Blanc went on to score back-to-back touchdowns — pulling within eight points of Hartland. Grand Blanc's attempted onside kick was recovered by Hartland, and it wasn't long before Tony Annese had the ball back in his hands — registering another score on a 50-yard scramble for a touchdown. Hartland went up 38-24. Grand Blanc drove down the Hartland 8-yard line on the next series, but Hartland's defense made an impressive stand to deny them a touchdown.

Hartland took over on downs, but couldn't move the ball — opting to punt out of their own end-zone. Grand Blanc's punt-rush overwhelmed Hartland and punter, Jimmy Francis, was sacked for a 2-point safety making the score 38-26. Grand Blanc was out of time-outs on their next offensive possession, but with 3.4 seconds left in regulation, they scored on a pass play as time expired. Final score: Hartland 38, Grand Blanc 32. Whew! That was close, but a win is a win...we'll gladly take it.

Freshmen Gold: Week 3 (9-10-2009)

Freshmen Gold Demolishes Grand Blanc, 57-14

(UPDATED: 9/11/09 @ 3:18pm) Seven different Hartland players scored in Thursday night's game. Ryan Hill and Zack Hauk each scored two touchdowns. Andrew Skowyra, Dane Bourdo, Josh Orlando, and Marcus Inman added a touchdown each. Alec Bain kicked a 27-yard field goal. Wow!

Freshmen Blue: Week 3 (9-9-2009)

Freshmen Blue Spanks Walled Lake Western, 50-6

The Blue team played Walled Lake Western Wednesday night and easily defeated them, 50-6. Chad Selby (RB) stole the show with his four rushing touchdowns. Spencer Wright (RB) added another two, and Nick Kryskowski (RB) scored one of his own. Great job, boys!

Hartland Splits Freshmen Squad

In an effort to get more kids on the field — therefore getting them more game-time experience — Hartland split their Freshmen roster to create two teams. As I understand it, there is a Blue team and a Gold team. The Blue team will play a five-game schedule and recombine with the Gold team on weeks where they do not have an opponent. Week 3 was the first game they played with the two teams, and by looking at their scores above, it appears the kids have really responded to the opportunity. Great move for the program. It should add to some much-needed numbers at the JV level next season.

Varsity: Week 2 (9-3-2009)

Hartland Brings Down the House

The varsity team didn't disappoint the large crowd — trouncing South Lyon East, 55-6 in our home opener. Here's a quick recap of the scoring:

• Danny Richmond threw an 8-yard strike to a slanting Phil Annese.
• Jake Ostrowski intercepted a pass and took it 37 yards for the score.
• Matt Kenwell faked everybody out on a reverse and took it the distance — 67 yards!
• Richmond threw his second touchdown to Matt Poches — hitting him perfectly in stride for the 37-yard TD.
• Chad Hunt scored on a rambling, 16-yard run after bouncing it to the outside.
• Max Nystrand added another score when he picked-off a pass and ran it back 25 yards.
• Hunt scored his second rushing TD of the night off the right side of the line with the help of some great blocks.
• Taylor Garner finished the scoring with a huge, 45-yard QB keeper down the left sideline.

Wow, what a game! You can read the full story by Rick Shepich of the Daily Press & Argus. (Great coverage, Rick. Thanks!)

JV and Freshmen: Week 2 (9-2-2009)

JV and Freshmen win Big!

The Freshmen team defeated South Lyon East Wednesday night by a score of 35-18. The JV team followed with a 44-0 victory of their own. Great job, boys!. Varsity...you're up!

Varsity: Week 1 (8-28-2009)

Hartland Crushes Livonia Churchill, 31-7

See videos highlights in the player above!

The rain held off and for the second year in a row, the varsity team easily handled our KLAA South Division foe, the Livonia Churchill Chargers. Hartland jumped out to an early lead and went on to score 21 points in the first quarter to set the stage for the rest of the game. Hartland's defense did a tremendous job holding Churchill scoreless until the last few minutes of the game. Below is a breakdown by quarter.

First Quarter

Hartland kicked-off to Churchill. Taylor Garner (Senior WR/DB) intercepted a Churchill pass on the first series. Hartland went three and out on their first series. Hartland's Brent Kinsey recovered a fumble on Churchill's next series. Hartland scored on a swing pass to Matt Kenwell (Senior RB/DB), but it was called back because of a penalty. Danny Richmond (Junior QB) found Matt Poches (Junior WR/DB) on a slant route for a touchdown at 7:01. Extra point kick by Adam Schiller (Junior K/P) was good and Hartland led 7-0.

Churchill couldn't do much on their next series and punted the ball away. Hartland took over on the 49 yard line and started a nice drive. They changed-up the offensive personnel a little — putting Phil Annese (Junior WR/DB) at QB and running for the 1st down — to keep Churchill guessing.

Second Quarter

Hartland continued their first quarter drive down inside the one yard line, then Richmond popped one in on a QB sneak. Schiler's extra point was good and Hartland went up 14-0 with 11:57 left in the half.

Churchill again struggled on offense and after punting Hartland was in control. Three great reception efforts by Garner, Gerry Francis (Junior TE/LB) and Poches kept the drive alive with first downs. Kenwell added a nice rush down left side line to the six yard line. After a Churchill timeout, Kenwell punched it in for the score with 4:35 left. Extra point was good and Hartland led 21-0.

Hartland's defense fed off their offense's success and continued to shut-down the Churchill offense — forcing them to punt. Hartland took over deep in their own territory, then struggled with a couple of penalties. Schiler's attempted punt was blocked and Churchill took over on our own 10 yard line. However, Churchill burned all their time-outs and were a little rushed. They attempted a field goal on 4th and 10, but after their holder mishandled the snap Hartland was able to take advantage by rushing the kicker and blocking the attempt. Richmond kneed-out to end the first half.

Third Quarter

Churchill kicked-off to Hartland and we started to eat-up the clock. Hartland drove down to the around Churchill's 40, then a very timely reverse to Max Nystrand (Senior WR/DB) was called. Nystrand ran the reverse all the way down the left side-line for the touchdown. Whatever life Churchill hoped to have in the second half, died on that play. Schiler's kick was good and Hartland went up a commanding 28-0 with 7:47 left in the third.

Schiler was having a great game — he booted the ensuing kick-off out of the end zone forcing Churchill to start at their own 20. Hartland's defense was again relentless. Hartland's Josh Kulesza (Senior OL/DL) was all over the Churchill quarterback. Churchill was forced to punt. Hartland didn't produce on their next drive and punted back to Churchill. Our defense came up big again, forcing Churchill to punt back to us. The quarter ended with Hartland in possession.

Fourth Quarter

Hartland continued to eat up the clock. Richmond led his team all the way down inside the Churchill 10 yard line. After a few missed opportunities, Schiler lined up for a 28-yard field goal. It was good. Hartland led 31-7 with 4:19 left in the 4th.

Churchill avoided the big goose egg by scoring with 2:54 left in the game.

Great start, boys!

Hartland opens at home vs. South Lyon East on Thursday, September 3 at 7:00pm.

GO EAGLES!!!

Local Paper Previews Hartland's Season

Read Hartland's Football Preview by our local newspaper, the Livingston County Press & Argus.

JV: Week 1 (8-27-2009)

JV Handles Livonia Churchill, 31-7

The JV squad — looking a little thin in numbers — won convincingly over visiting Livonia Churchill by a score of 31-7. Quarterback, Tony Annese scored on the first play of the game — running a keeper, untouched down the left side line for a 66 yard touchdown. Annese scored again at the end of the 1st quarter on a keeper (off-tackle right) inside the 10 yard line. Eric Poisson (WR/DB) then scored on a 63-yard run in the 2nd quarter to make the score 19-0. Poisson added an interception on defense to finish the first half.

In the 3rd quarter, Tony Annese went to work again — this time in the air — throwing a 30-yard strike to Trey Conner (WR/LB) for the touchdown. Annese threw another touchdown pass at the end of the 3rd quarter — finding Aaron Hayes (WR/DB) for the 38-yard score. The score remained 31-0 for most of the 4th quarter, then Churchill scored with 11 seconds left.

Great way to kick-start the season, boys! GO EAGLES!

Freshmen: Week 1 (8-27-2009)

Freshmen Start Strong; Win 15-8

The Freshmen team defeated Livonia Churchill 15-8. Hartland QB, Stephen Milarch, hooked-up with Anthony Villar for a touchdown pass and followed that with the two-point conversion pass. Later in the game, Dane Bourdo scored from 11 yards out to put the game away.

Three Players Sign Letter of Intent

Jon Stevens (WR/DE) and Josh Theis (OT/DT) both signed to play at Northern Michigan University. Kicker, Zach Minor, signed to play soccer with Saginaw Valley State. Congratulations, boys! We're all so very proud of you and wish you great success at the collegiate level.

Varsity: Week 12 (11-15-2008)

Hartland falls to Rockford in Regional Final, 8-24

Division 1, Region 1 Final: Rockford 24, Hartland 8

Watch QB Chris Cagle scramble for a 1st down in video 014.

It didn't look like it would be much fun when we left Hartland in the rain. But, in Rockford it was dry and mostly cloudy albeit chilly and windy. I was impressed and proud with the number of Hartland fans that made the trip — what a great day tailgating with friends and family on a Saturday afternoon. The atmosphere felt like ESPN's College Game Day! Very cool!

Here's the possession-by-possession recap.

Hartland went on offense first starting at the 20 and gained two first downs on a Matt Kenwell (junior RB) run and Jon Stevens (senior WR/DE) pass reception up the middle. Hartland was then looking a 4th and 4 after getting past mid-field but had to punt the ball away.

KLAA Honors 12 Hartland Players as 2008 All-Conference

My sources confirm that the following Hartland players have been selected to the 2008 KLAA Lakes Conference's "All-Conference" Team:

FIRST TEAM: Chris Cagle, Vonn Jones, Josh Theis, Charles Putz, Jake Warner, Ryan Simancek, and Jared Felix. HONORABLE MENTION: Carson Pippin, Matt Poches, Kyle Summerfield, and Jon Stevens. SPECIAL TEAMS PLAYER-OF-THE-YEAR: Zach Minor.

Other teams in the Lakes Conference include: Brighton, Howell, Milford, Pinckney, Lakeland, WL Central, WL Northern, WL Western, Waterford Kettering, and Waterford Mott.

Congrats, boys! Well deserved.

Game Summaries / Program News

List all news

2009 Week-by-Week Scores

2009 KLAA Scores | 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005 Hartland Scores