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Warriors Football Team Captures Post-Season Awards

Dec 10, 2015 09:20AM ● By Bryan Scott

By Greg James

Taylorsville - The lockers are closed, gym bags cleaned out and uniforms turned in for the Taylorsville High School football team. The games may be over, but the Warriors loaded their trophy case with post-season awards and have begun preparations for next year.

“I was a little disappointed in our season. I thought we had the talent, but some injuries on the offensive line hampered our production. Imagine what kind of stats we could have had. We played well in most every game. We also had what I believe was the toughest schedules in the state,” Warriors head coach Rod Wells said.

The change to Region 3 was difficult for the Warriors. Playing in what Wells called the most difficult region in the state proved to be overwhelming. Its final 3-7 record was good enough for fifth place in the region behind Bingham, Jordan, Brighton and West Jordan. They picked up wins over Copper Hills (44-3) and Cottonwood (38-7).

Region 3 head coaches passed out post-season awards on Nov. 11. Several Warriors were voted best in its region.

Freshman Dane Leituala’ s spectacular offensive output was not overlooked by his peers. He was awarded the region’s most outstanding quarterback. His 1649 yard passing, 10 passing touchdowns, 1828 rushing yards and 18 rushing touchdowns were amongst the countries best.

“Dane definitely has a future in this game. He just barely turned 15. He does not even have peach fuzz. I expect him to grow and be a huge prospect,” Wells said.

Ewan Tuinei was given the outstanding offensive lineman. On the opposite side of the ball Lyric Bartley and B.J. Tuimalatu were voted outstanding defensive lineman. Bartley led Utah’s 5A division in sacks this season with 13 ½.  Senior linebacker Ethan Leituala was awarded most outstanding at his position. 

The Warriors junior defensive backs Tama Wilson and Eddie Ah-Mu were given most outstanding defensive back awards.

“I feel we were well represented in the Region 3 awards.  These guys are superstars. I think Tama Wilson is one of the best corners in the state,” Wells said.

Wilson earned the nickname “NC” this season, meaning no completions. He did not allow one touchdown pass in his direction the entire season and it was three games into the season before anyone caught a pass against him.

Kingston Limutau and Dylan Apelu were voted members of Region 3’s first team; Wade Utai and Saul Ramos second team; Josh Cox, Josh Sterzer, Darnel Apelu and T.J. Hazel were honorable mention. 

“We have potential if we can keep the team in tact to be very good. We will only lose one offensive lineman. I think we now know what the level of competition is in this region,” Wells said.