JOURNAL SPORTS
Every local high school football team is lining up in a jamboree this weekend, beginning tonight with two local matchups.
Shreveport’s biggest rivalry is revived in truncated form when the Byrd Yellow Jackets meet the Captain Shreve Gators at 6 o’clock in Lee Hedges Stadium, for two quarters of competition. It’s a preview of in the 49th annual “Backyard Brawl” that will complete the 10-game regular season in the same location on Nov. 10.
The other jamboree contest tonight, also at 6, pits Huntington against Northwood at Independence Stadium.
The Shreve-Byrd rivalry is more familiar than usual in football. The Gators and Yellow Jackets also collided in a preseason jamboree last year.
Players from both teams fielded media questions early this month at the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl High School Media Day.
Chris Hill, Captain Shreve, WR
What’s your expectation for the Gators this fall?
“Definitely go further than the last five years, at least. I think we’re so underrated. I know we have weapons all around, not just at one position. I know we have multiple guys that can do the job. We’re all special players and we know what to do when the ball gets in our hands.”
What makes it a good season individually?
“Just doing my job to the best of my ability, showcasing things I didn’t get to last year. I’ll get more opportunities and I want to show everybody what I’ve got.”
What is that? Describe yourself as a player.
“I’m a dog who’s going to do his job. Always a team player who’s going to uplift his teammates and be a leader on the field. I’m an all-around type of receiver, a real talented guy who can go up top and catch the ball, get yards after the catch, anything you need.
“I’m a great teammate. I always cheer for my guys. I’m looking out for them, trying to show them what it’s like to be a leader.”
How are you as a student?
“I’m a good student in the classroom, a 4.0 GPA.”
Christian Maxie, Byrd, RB
What will fans see when you’re on the field?
“When they’re watching me, they’ll see explosiveness, speed, strength, vision … I’m just an all-around player. I can do anything, anywhere. Put me on defense, too. I’m an all-around ball player.
“My best attribute is being able to make a move in open space using my vision. I feel like I have the best vision in the state.”
As a senior, how do you fulfill leadership responsibilities?
“I’m a great leader. I always help the younger players. They’re always asking for advice, and it’s to take their time, don’t rush the game. The game comes to you.”
Academically, what’s your approach?
“I’m locked in during classes. I’m trying to go to college and play football and my academics have to be lined up to get that done.”
Conrad Hilliard, Byrd, DE
Any advice to defensive players on how to defend Maxie (who ran for 1,574 yards and 21 touchdowns last year, scoring a school-record six in one game)?
“You can’t. There’s no advice I can give you. I’m glad he’s on my team.”
You see him every day in practice. How do you try to stop him?
“He lines up on the other side. He doesn’t want to go against me!”