HIGH SCHOOL JOURNALISM: Clayton Ridge ready for Regals

Editor's note: Here is your chance to tell your story about your team, your school or your favorite player. If you'd like to join The Gazette's growing list of high school contributors, contact J.R. Ogden at jr.ogden@thegazette.com

By Gibson Berns, Clayton Ridge senior

GUTTENBERG - Clayton Ridge's first-round prep football victory over Eddyville-Blakesburg was a huge step for the team and school.

'This game was a signature win and a great game to get the ball rolling," said senior quarterback Kohle Helle, who completed 11 of 13 passes for 215 yards and two touchdowns last week and also rushed for 43 yards and another TD. "I feel that our team has a lot of momentum and is ready to roll.'

Next up for the Eagles is No. 1-ranked Iowa City Regina, tonight in the second round in Iowa City.

Every member of the Clayton Ridge team is excited to play this game, especially senior offensive lineman Jacob Kahle.

'The team and I are thrilled for this game; we have been dreaming of this moment since last year,' said Kahle, a two-year starter for the Eagles who switched from center to right guard this year.

'The best thing we can do to win Monday's game at Regina is to shut down their running attack and get pressure on the quarterback," senior linebacker and defensive leader Kristopher Ihde said.

"If we can do those things and make some plays on offense, we hope to come away with the win.'Ihde had 20 tackles and an interception in last week's win over EBF.

Regina comes into tonight's contest after a 46-6 rout of Tipton. Regina has a win streak of 52 straight football game  and is seeking its fourth straight state championship. The Regals' closest game all year was an 18-point victory over district rival Wilton.

This will be Clayton Ridge's toughest test all year, but the players believe they can step up to the plate.

Kahle quoted the movie 'Miracle' when asked about the opportunity to play the powerhouse Regina.

'Great moments are born with great opportunity,' he said.